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Di Dionisio CM, Bitzer J, Greil-Soyka M. A model curriculum in sexual medicine for undergraduate education in Europe. OPEN RESEARCH EUROPE 2024; 3:153. [PMID: 39318999 PMCID: PMC11420616 DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.16146.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
Sexual health has been recognized as an essential component of the overall health and wellbeing. The current article aims, first, to review the current state of sexual health education in undergraduate medical curricula, identifying gaps, needs and challenges. The main part of this paper describes the development and content of an undergraduate sexual medicine curriculum based on a clear concept of the competencies students should learn regarding knowledge, skills and attitudes. The content is based on a biopsychosocial understanding of human sexuality elaborated by international experts from different European countries integrating basic knowledge in biology, psychology, sociocultural and political sciences, preventive medicine, and the various therapeutic approaches to help women, men and couples with sexual health problems on a primary care level. In order to enable students to learn the basic skills of sexual history taking and sexual basic counselling two educational videos were produced. The material presented is part of the European Collaboration in Science and Technology (COST) supported project European Sexual Medicine Network (ESMN). The material provided can serve universities to give the training as a 25-30 hours course equivalent to 1 ECTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Matteo Di Dionisio
- Endocrinology and Medical Sexology (ENDOSEX), Department of Systems Medicine, Universita degli Studi di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Lazio, Italy
| | - Johannes Bitzer
- University Hospital - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universitat Basel, Basel, Basel-Stadt, Switzerland
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Li DH, Macapagal K, Mongrella M, Saber R, Mustanski B. "Your Package Could Not Be Delivered": The State of Digital HIV Intervention Implementation in the US. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2024; 21:152-167. [PMID: 38502421 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-024-00693-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite continuous innovations and federal investment to create digital interventions addressing the HIV prevention and care continua, these interventions have not reached people in the U.S. at scale. This article reviews what is known about U.S. implementation of digital HIV interventions and presents a strategy to cross the research-to-practice chasm for these types of interventions. RECENT FINDINGS We conducted a narrative review of U.S.-based original research on implementation of digital HIV interventions and identified few studies reporting on implementation determinants, strategies, processes, or outcomes, particularly outside the context of effectiveness trials. To supplement the literature, in 2023, we surveyed 47 investigators representing 64 unique interventions about their experiences with implementation after their research trials. Respondents placed high importance on intervention implementation, but major barriers included lack of funding and clear implementation models, technology costs, and difficulty identifying partners equipped to deliver digital interventions. They felt that responsibility for implementation should be shared between intervention developers, deliverers (e.g., clinics), and a government entity. If an implementation center were to exist, most respondents wanted to be available for guidance or technical assistance but largely wanted less involvement. Numerous evidence-based, effective digital interventions exist to address HIV prevention and care. However, they remain "on the shelf" absent a concrete and sustainable model for real-world dissemination and implementation. Based on our findings, we call for the creation of national implementation centers, analogous to those in other health systems, to facilitate digital HIV intervention delivery and accelerate progress toward ending the U.S. epidemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis H Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melissa Mongrella
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rana Saber
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
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Adakpa I, McLuskey J. Identification and responses by nurses to sexual exploitation of young people. BRITISH JOURNAL OF NURSING (MARK ALLEN PUBLISHING) 2024; 33:338-345. [PMID: 38578936 DOI: 10.12968/bjon.2024.33.7.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nurses are uniquely positioned to identify and respond to the sexual exploitation of young people. They treat sexually transmitted infections, unplanned pregnancies, and mental health issues, often collaborating with social services and law enforcement to safeguard young people. AIM This narrative review explores the pivotal role of nurses in identifying and responding to sexual exploitation among young people. METHODS Empirical evidence from 1997 to 2021 was examined through a comprehensive search of databases such as CINAHL-EBSCO, ASSIA, PubMed (including Medline), and manual screening of abstracts. The PRISMA guideline was applied. Thematic analysis of 12 selected studies revealed three overarching themes. FINDINGS The themes identified were the influence of technology on the sexual exploitation of young people, identification and response to sexual exploitation in both clinical and non-clinical settings, and organisational support. CONCLUSION These findings shed light on sexual exploitation and underscore the significance of a person-centred approach to nursing care that addresses the health and social impacts of sexual exploitation. It emphasises the importance of interagency collaboration and appropriate clinical interventions to effectively support young people at risk. Increased professional development, support, and supervision for nurses are relevant to identifying, responding to, and preventing the sexual exploitation of young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Itodo Adakpa
- Lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Bolton
| | - John McLuskey
- Assistant Professor, Director of Professions, School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham
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Cox C, Hatfield T, Moxey J, Fritz Z. Creating and administering video vignettes for a study examining the communication of diagnostic uncertainty: methodological insights to improve accessibility for researchers and participants. BMC Med Res Methodol 2023; 23:296. [PMID: 38102577 PMCID: PMC10722843 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-023-02072-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studying clinician-patient communication can be challenging, particularly when research seeks to explore cause-and-effect relationships. Video vignettes - hypothetical yet realistic scenarios - offer advantages to traditional observational approaches by enabling standardisation and manipulation of a clinician-patient encounter for assessment by participants. While published guidelines outline stages to create valid video vignette studies, constructing high quality vignettes which are accessible to a wide range of participants and feasible to produce within time and budget restraints remains challenging. Here, we outline our methods in creating valid video vignettes to study the communication of diagnostic uncertainty. We aim to provide practically useful recommendations for future researchers, and to prompt further reflection on accessibility issues in video vignette methodology. METHODS We produced four video vignettes for use in an online study examining the communication of diagnostic uncertainty. We followed established guidelines for vignette production, with specific consideration of how these might be applied pragmatically to save time and resources. Scripts were pilot-tested with 15 laypeople, and videos with 14 laypeople; pilot-testing involved both quantitative and qualitative analysis. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION We demonstrate the usefulness of existing guidelines, while also determining that vignette production need not necessarily be expensive or time-consuming to be valid. Our vignettes were filmed using an iPhone camera, and featured a physician rather than a professional actor; nonetheless, pilot-testing found them to be internally and externally valid for experimental use. We thus propose that if care is taken in initial script development and if pragmatic choices are made regarding filming techniques and pilot-testing, researchers can produce valid vignettes within reasonable time and budget restraints. We also suggest that existing research fails to critically examine the potential benefits and harms of online video vignette methodology, and propose that further research should consider how it can be adapted to be inclusive of those from underserved backgrounds. CONCLUSIONS Researchers creating video vignette studies can adapt the video vignette development process to suit time and budget constraints, and to make best use of available technology. Online methods may be harnessed to increase participant accessibility, but future research should explore more inclusive vignette design.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitríona Cox
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.
| | - Thea Hatfield
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jordan Moxey
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Zoë Fritz
- The Healthcare Improvement Studies (THIS) Institute, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Liu Y, Wu YC, Fu H, Guo WY, Wang X. Digital intervention in improving the outcomes of mental health among LGBTQ+ youth: a systematic review. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1242928. [PMID: 37809309 PMCID: PMC10556462 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1242928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
LGBTQ+ youth experience mental health disparities and higher rates of mental disorders due to barriers to accessing care, including insufficient services and the anticipated stigma of revealing their identities. This systematic review incorporated 15 empirical studies on digital interventions' impact on LGBTQ+ youth mental health, examining their potential to address these inequities. This study innovatively categorized existing digital interventions into four streams: Structured Formal (telehealth, online programs), Structured Informal (serious games), Unstructured Formal (mobile applications), and Unstructured Informal (social media). We found that S&F and U&F effectively reduced symptoms. U&F showed potential but required enhancement, while U&I fostered resilience but posed risks. Further integration of emerging technologies like virtual reality may strengthen these interventions. This review identifies the characteristics of effective digital health interventions and evaluates the overall potential of digital technologies in improving LGBTQ+ youth mental health, uniquely contributing insights on digital solutions advancing LGBTQ+ youth mental healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanni Liu
- McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL, United States
| | - Ying Cheng Wu
- Tandon School of Engineering, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Hongpeng Fu
- School of Law, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Wu Yuan Guo
- Department of Curriculum and Instruction, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Karpov MV, Bartholmae MM, Levy BL, Roess AA, Renshaw KD, Sill JM, Dodani S. Exploring the influence of behavioral factors on depression and anxiety scores during the COVID-19 pandemic: insights from the Virginia statewide COVIDsmart longitudinal study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1749. [PMID: 37679746 PMCID: PMC10485957 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16614-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been growing concern about the declining mental health and healthy behaviors compared to pre-pandemic levels. Despite this, there is a lack of longitudinal studies that have examined the relationship between health behaviors and mental health during the pandemic. In response, the statewide COVIDsmart longitudinal study was launched. The study's main objective is to better understand the effects of the pandemic on mental health. Findings may provide a foundation for the identification of public health strategies to mitigate future negative impacts of the pandemic. METHODS Following online recruitment in spring of 2021, adults, ages 18 to 87, filled out social, mental, economic, occupational, and physical health questionnaires on the digital COVIDsmart platform at baseline and through six monthly follow-ups. Changes in the participant's four health behaviors (e.g., tobacco and alcohol consumption, physical activity, and social media use), along with sex, age, loneliness score, and reported social and economic (SE) hardships, were analyzed for within-between group associations with depression and anxiety scores using Mixed Models Repeated Measures. RESULTS In this study, of the 669 individuals who reported, the within-between group analysis indicated that younger adults (F = 23.81, p < 0.0001), loneliness (F = 234.60, p < 0.0001), SE hardships (F = 31.25, p < 0.0001), increased tobacco use (F = 3.05, p = 0.036), decreased physical activity (F = 6.88, p = 0.0002), and both positive and negative changes in social media use (F = 7.22, p = 0.0001) were significantly associated with worse depression scores. Additionally, females (F = 6.01, p = 0.015), younger adults (F = 32.30, p < 0.0001), loneliness (F = 154.59, p < 0.0001), SE hardships (F = 22.13, p < 0.0001), increased tobacco use (F = 4.87, p = 0.004), and both positive and negative changes in social media use (F = 3.51, p = 0.016) were significantly associated with worse anxiety scores. However, no significant changes were observed in the within-between group measurements of depression and anxiety scores over time (p > 0.05). Physical activity was not associated with anxiety nor was alcohol consumption with both depression and anxiety (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates the longitudinal changes in behaviors within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. These findings may facilitate the design of preventative population-based health approaches during the COVID-19 pandemic or future pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matvey V Karpov
- Eastern Virginia Medical School-Sentara Healthcare Analytics and Delivery Science Institute, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Marilyn M Bartholmae
- Eastern Virginia Medical School-Sentara Healthcare Analytics and Delivery Science Institute, Norfolk, VA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Brian L Levy
- Department of Sociology & Anthropology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Amira A Roess
- Department of Global and Community Health, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Keith D Renshaw
- Department of Psychology, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA, USA
| | - Joshua M Sill
- Division of Pulmonology, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Sunita Dodani
- Eastern Virginia Medical School-Sentara Healthcare Analytics and Delivery Science Institute, Norfolk, VA, USA.
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
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Lohan M, Gillespie K, Aventin Á, Gough A, Warren E, Lewis R, Buckley K, McShane T, Brennan-Wilson A, Lagdon S, Adara L, McDaid L, French R, Young H, McDowell C, Logan D, Toase S, Hunter RM, Gabrio A, Clarke M, O'Hare L, Bonell C, Bailey JV, White J. School-based relationship and sexuality education intervention engaging adolescent boys for the reductions of teenage pregnancy: the JACK cluster RCT. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 11:1-139. [PMID: 37795864 DOI: 10.3310/ywxq8757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The need to engage boys in gender-transformative relationships and sexuality education (RSE) to reduce adolescent pregnancy is endorsed by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. Objectives To evaluate the effects of If I Were Jack on the avoidance of unprotected sex and other sexual health outcomes. Design A cluster randomised trial, incorporating health economics and process evaluations. Setting Sixty-six schools across the four nations of the UK. Participants Students aged 13-14 years. Intervention A school-based, teacher-delivered, gender-transformative RSE intervention (If I Were Jack) versus standard RSE. Main outcome measures Self-reported avoidance of unprotected sex (sexual abstinence or reliable contraceptive use at last sex) after 12-14 months. Secondary outcomes included knowledge, attitudes, skills, intentions and sexual behaviours. Results The analysis population comprised 6556 students: 86.6% of students in the intervention group avoided unprotected sex, compared with 86.4% in the control group {adjusted odds ratio 0.85 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.58 to 1.26], p = 0.42}. An exploratory post hoc analysis showed no difference for sexual abstinence [78.30% intervention group vs. 78.25% control group; adjusted odds ratio 0.85 (95% CI 0.58 to 1.24), p = 0.39], but more intervention group students than control group students used reliable contraception at last sex [39.62% vs. 26.36%; adjusted odds ratio 0.52 (95% CI 0.29 to 0.920), p = 0.025]. Students in schools allocated to receive the intervention had significantly higher scores on knowledge [adjusted mean difference 0.18 (95% CI 0.024 to 0.34), p = 0.02], gender-equitable attitudes and intentions to avoid unintended pregnancy [adjusted mean difference 0.61 (95% CI 0.16 to 1.07), p = 0.01] than students in schools allocated to receive the control. There were positive but non-significant differences in sexual self-efficacy and communication skills. The total mean incremental cost of the intervention compared with standard RSE was £2.83 (95% CI -£2.64 to £8.29) per student. Over a 20-year time horizon, the intervention is likely to be cost-effective owing to its impact on unprotected sex because it would result in 379 (95% CI 231 to 477) fewer unintended pregnancies, 680 (95% CI 189 to 1467) fewer sexually transmitted infections and a gain of 10 (95% CI 5 to 16) quality-adjusted life-years per 100,000 students for a cost saving of £9.89 (95% CI -£15.60 to -£3.83). Limitations The trial is underpowered to detect some effects because four schools withdrew and the intraclass correlation coefficient (0.12) was larger than that in sample size calculation (0.01). Conclusions We present, to our knowledge, the first evidence from a randomised trial that a school-based, male engagement gender-transformative RSE intervention, although not effective in increasing avoidance of unprotected sex (defined as sexual abstinence or use of reliable contraception at last sex) among all students, did increase the use of reliable contraception at last sex among students who were, or became, sexually active by 12-14 months after the intervention. The trial demonstrated that engaging all adolescents early through RSE is important so that, as they become sexually active, rates of unprotected sex are reduced, and that doing so is likely to be cost-effective. Future work Future studies should consider the longer-term effects of gender-transformative RSE as students become sexually active. Gender-transformative RSE could be adapted to address broader sexual health and other settings. Trial registration This trial is registered as ISRCTN10751359. Funding This project was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme (PHR 15/181/01) and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 11, No. 8. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Kathryn Gillespie
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Áine Aventin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Aisling Gough
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Emily Warren
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ruth Lewis
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kelly Buckley
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Theresa McShane
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | | | - Susan Lagdon
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Linda Adara
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Rebecca French
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Honor Young
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Sorcha Toase
- Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - Rachael M Hunter
- Health Economics Analysis and Research Methods Team, University College London, London, UK
| | - Andrea Gabrio
- Care and Public Health Research Institute (CAPHRI) School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Mike Clarke
- Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - Liam O'Hare
- School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Chris Bonell
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - James White
- Centre for Development, Evaluation, Complexity and Implementation in Public Health Improvement, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Martin P, Alberti C, Gottot S, Bourmaud A, de La Rochebrochard E. Young people's proposals for a web-based intervention for sexual health promotion: a French qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:1389. [PMID: 37468863 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-16257-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Promoting sexual health is key to improving the supportive behaviors and well-being of young people. With the advent of the Internet, web-based features for sexual health promotion may be attractive to a diverse range of young people. This study aims to assess young people's proposals regarding a web-based intervention for sexual health promotion. METHODS Nineteen French young people aged 15-24 years participated to the study. In a semi-structured interview, they presented their views on a web-based intervention for sexual promotion. Data were coded with N'Vivo and subjected to qualitative thematic analysis to explore their proposals. RESULTS The majority of participants (n = 18) thought that a web-based intervention for sexual health promotion would be attractive. Young people interviewed made 31 concrete proposals for sexual health promotion on the Internet. Participatory and interactive dimensions on the internet appeared essential, with the need for stimulating activities and interaction with peers, but also with competent professionals and moderation. Face to the risks of the internet, they expressed the need of a secure and confidential space, to generate trust and participation in intervention. For participants, sexual health should be addressed in all its dimensions, taking into account the relational, sexual, and gender dimensions, and by incrementing on the internet valid, credible and personalized content. CONCLUSIONS In sexual health promotion, young people are indispensable stakeholders who can make concrete proposals and can also participate in content creation and research. More broadly, in health promotion, involving target audiences in decisions represents a promising perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Martin
- Université Paris Cité, ECEVE, Inserm U1123 UFR de Médecine, 10 Avenue de Verdun, 75010, Paris, France.
- AP-HP, Hôpital Universitaire Robert Debré, Unité d'épidémiologie clinique, 1426, Inserm, CIC, France.
- GDID Santé, Paris, France.
- Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques (INED), UR14 - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Aubervilliers, F-93322, France.
| | - Corinne Alberti
- Université Paris Cité, ECEVE, Inserm U1123 UFR de Médecine, 10 Avenue de Verdun, 75010, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Universitaire Robert Debré, Unité d'épidémiologie clinique, 1426, Inserm, CIC, France
| | | | - Aurélie Bourmaud
- Université Paris Cité, ECEVE, Inserm U1123 UFR de Médecine, 10 Avenue de Verdun, 75010, Paris, France
- AP-HP, Hôpital Universitaire Robert Debré, Unité d'épidémiologie clinique, 1426, Inserm, CIC, France
| | - Elise de La Rochebrochard
- Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques (INED), UR14 - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Aubervilliers, F-93322, France
- Université Paris-Saclay, Univ. Paris-Sud, UVSQ, CESP, INSERM, Villejuif, F-94800, France
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9
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Abrams R, Nordmyr J, Forsman AK. Promoting sexual health in schools: a systematic review of the European evidence. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1193422. [PMID: 37469692 PMCID: PMC10352496 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1193422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Sexual ill-health is an urgent public health issue with subsequent social and economic costs. There is, therefore, a need for more effective sexual health promotion interventions in an early stage of life. Previous research has focused on preventive sexual health interventions applying a risk perspective, and the limited and scattered evidence concerning school-based sexual health promotion interventions employing a health-resource perspective has not been compiled and synthesized. Hence, this study aimed to systematically review the current evidence on the effects of sexual health promotion interventions conducted in schools in Europe. Method A systematic review based on the JBI and PRISMA standards was performed, encompassing searches in seven databases to identify sexual health promotion interventions conducted in European schools between 2012 and 2022. Data coding was performed according to a predetermined protocol and included information on study characteristics, intervention content, methods, and outcomes relevant to the current review. A narrative synthesis of the included studies was performed, highlighting the collective results. Result Seventeen records were included in the review, reporting on 16 individual studies conducted in 7 European countries. Of the 16 included studies, 13 had a quantitative research design, and three had a qualitative design. All three studies with a qualitative research design described positive effects experienced by the participants. Six of thirteen quantitative studies showed statistically significant positive effects on at least one of the outcomes of interest. The outcomes of interest were grouped into five areas, and most studies focused on the area of attitudes toward sexual health. Conclusion The findings indicate promising evidence of effect for interventions with a health promotion approach, highlighting the importance of strengthening sexual health resources related to respect, communication skills, attitudes, and other positive psycho-social aspects of sexual health. Most sexual health promotion intervention studies have focused on sexual health resource outcomes connected to attitudes and skills, whereas a comprehensive focus on the multi-dimensional sexual health literacy concept is less common and can be recommended to be included in future intervention research.
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Sever Z, Vowels LM. Beliefs and Attitudes Held Toward Sex Therapy and Sex Therapists. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2023; 52:1729-1741. [PMID: 36759404 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-023-02532-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing recognition that sexual problems can adversely impact health, well-being, and quality of life. Sex therapy provides individuals with an effective means of understanding, improving, and resolving their sexual difficulties. Yet, few individuals access a sex therapist when experiencing sexual difficulties and research on perceptions toward this service remains limited. The current study aimed to explore attitudes and beliefs held by a sample with a current or previous history of sexual problems toward sex therapy and therapists. A total of 27 individuals aged 19-53 participated in unmoderated structured interviews that were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The results were organized into five categories, (1) overall perceptions of sex therapy, (2) when and for whom is sex therapy, (3) expectations, (4) beliefs about sex therapists, and (5) sources of beliefs. While the results indicated that participants held positive attitudes toward the service and about others seeking sex therapy, none had accessed sex therapy for their previous or current sexual problems. Numerous barriers relating to stigma, cost, and accessibility appeared to hinder the utilization of the service. The inaccurate and unrealistic beliefs about sex therapy and sex therapists highlight the need for increased education regarding the profession, which could reduce barriers and increase accessibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe Sever
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, 2050, Australia.
| | - Laura M Vowels
- FAmily and DevelOpment Research Center (FADO), Insti tute of Psychology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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11
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Purcell C, McDaid L, Forsyth R, Simpson SA, Elliott L, Bailey JV, Moore L, Mitchell KR. A peer-led, school-based social network intervention for young people in the UK, promoting sexual health via social media and conversations with friends: intervention development and optimisation of STASH. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:675. [PMID: 37041542 PMCID: PMC10088210 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15541-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The quality of school-based sex and relationships education (SRE) is variable in the UK. Digitally-based interventions can usefully supplement teacher-delivered lessons and positively impact sexual health knowledge. Designed to address gaps in core SRE knowledge, STASH (Sexually Transmitted infections And Sexual Health) is a peer-led social network intervention adapted from the successful ASSIST (A Stop Smoking in Schools Trial) model, and based on Diffusion of Innovation theory. This paper describes how the STASH intervention was developed and refined. METHODS Drawing on the Six Steps in Quality Intervention Development (6SQuID) framework, we tested a provisional programme theory through three iterative stages -: 1) evidence synthesis; 2) intervention co-production; and 3) adaptation - which incorporated evidence review, stakeholder consultation, and website co-development and piloting with young people, sexual health specialists, and educators. Multi-method results were analysed in a matrix of commonalities and differences. RESULTS Over 21 months, intervention development comprised 20 activities within the three stages. 1) We identified gaps in SRE provision and online resources (e.g. around sexual consent, pleasure, digital literacy), and confirmed critical components including the core ASSIST peer nomination process, the support of schools, and alignment to the national curriculum. We reviewed candidate social media platforms, ruling out all except Facebook on basis of functionality restrictions which precluded their use for our purposes. 2) Drawing on these findings, as well as relevant behaviour change theories and core elements of the ASSIST model, we co-developed new content with young people and other stakeholders, tailored to sexual health and to delivery via closed Facebook groups, as well as face-to-face conversations. 3) A pilot in one school highlighted practical considerations, including around peer nomination, recruitment, awareness raising, and boundaries to message sharing. From this, a revised STASH intervention and programme theory were co-developed with stakeholders. CONCLUSIONS STASH intervention development required extensive adaptation from the ASSIST model. Although labour intensive, our robust co-development approach ensured that an optimised intervention was taken forward for feasibility testing. Evidencing a rigorous approach to operationalising existing intervention development guidance, this paper also highlights the significance of balancing competing stakeholder concerns, resource availability, and an ever-changing landscape for implementation. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN97369178.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie Purcell
- Open University, 10 Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh, EH3 7QJ, UK.
- School of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK.
| | - Lisa McDaid
- Institute for Social Science Research, The University of Queensland, Long Pocket Precinct, 80 Meiers Rd, Indooroopilly, Brisbane, QLD, 4068, Australia
| | - Ross Forsyth
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Sharon A Simpson
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Lawrie Elliott
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Department of Nursing and Community Health, Glasgow Caledonian University, Room 420 George Moore Building, Cowcaddens Road, Glasgow, G4 OBA, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- University College London E-Health Unit, Royal Free Hospital, Upper Third Floor, Rowland Hill Street, London, NW3 2PF, UK
| | - Laurence Moore
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
| | - Kirstin R Mitchell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Clarice Pears Building, Byres Road, Glasgow, G12 8TA, Scotland
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Mustanski B, Saber R, Jones JP, Macapagal K, Benbow N, Li DH, Brown CH, Janulis P, Smith JD, Marsh E, Schackman BR, Linas BP, Madkins K, Swann G, Dean A, Bettin E, Savinkina A. Keep It Up! 3.0: Study protocol for a type III hybrid implementation-effectiveness cluster-randomized trial. Contemp Clin Trials 2023; 127:107134. [PMID: 36842763 PMCID: PMC10249332 DOI: 10.1016/j.cct.2023.107134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite evidence that eHealth approaches can be effective in reducing HIV risk, their implementation requirements for public health scale up are not well established, and effective strategies to bring these programs into practice are still unknown. Keep It Up! (KIU!) is an online program proven to reduce HIV risk among young men who have sex with men (YMSM) and ideal candidate to develop and evaluate novel strategies for implementing eHealth HIV prevention programs. KIU! 3.0 is a Type III Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation cluster randomized trial designed to 1) compare two strategies for implementing KIU!: community-based organizations (CBO) versus centralized direct-to-consumer (DTC) recruitment; 2) examine the effect of strategies and determinants on variability in implementation success; and 3) develop materials for sustainment of KIU! after the trial concludes. In this article, we describe the approaches used to achieve these aims. METHODS Using county-level population estimates of YMSM, 66 counties were selected and randomized 2:1 to the CBO and DTC approaches. The RE-AIM model was used to drive outcome measurements, which were collected from CBO staff, YMSM, and technology providers. Mixed-methods research mapped onto the domains of the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research will examine determinants and their relationship with implementation outcomes. DISCUSSION In comparing our implementation recruitment models, we are examining two strategies which have shown effectiveness in delivering health technology interventions in the past, yet little is known about their comparative advantages and disadvantages in implementation. The results of the trial will further the understanding of eHealth prevention intervention implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 446 E. Ontario Street, Floor 7, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America.
| | - Rana Saber
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Justin Patrick Jones
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Macapagal
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 446 E. Ontario Street, Floor 7, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Nanette Benbow
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 446 E. Ontario Street, Floor 7, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Dennis H Li
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 446 E. Ontario Street, Floor 7, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - C Hendricks Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 446 E. Ontario Street, Floor 7, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Patrick Janulis
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Justin D Smith
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah, 295 Chipeta Way, Williams Building, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States of America
| | - Elizabeth Marsh
- Boston Medical Center, Section of Infectious Diseases Crosstown Building, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, United States of America
| | - Bruce R Schackman
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Weill Cornell Medicine, 425 East 61(st) Street, Suite 301, New York, NY 10065, United States of America
| | - Benjamin P Linas
- Boston Medical Center, Section of Infectious Diseases Crosstown Building, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, United States of America
| | - Krystal Madkins
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Gregory Swann
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Abigael Dean
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Emily Bettin
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 625 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 14, Chicago, IL 60611, United States of America
| | - Alexandra Savinkina
- Boston Medical Center, Section of Infectious Diseases Crosstown Building, 801 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02118, United States of America
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Harmanci D, Edelman N, Richardson D, Lunt A, Llewellyn C. How are young people's mental health related to their sexual health and substance use? A systematic review of UK literature. Int J Adolesc Med Health 2023; 35:131-158. [PMID: 36636992 DOI: 10.1515/ijamh-2022-0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The transition from childhood to adulthood is complex and presents challenges to young people's mental health. Mental health impacts and is impacted by a range of contextual and personal factors. Adolescence and young adulthood also coincide with increased experimentation with sex, sexuality and substance use. Addressing the mental health, sexual health and substance-use challenges experienced by young people therefore necessitates an understanding of how these elements relate to one another. By collecting and analysing existing literature, this review aims to identify associations between young people's mental health and sexual health, their mental health and substance use and any resulting gaps-in-knowledge. CONTENT Seven electronic databases were searched between March and May 2021 and updated in May 2022 with terms collated under the categories of "young people", "mental health", "sexual health" and "substance use". English-language articles, presenting data from the UK & Ireland, on young people aged 16-24 years inclusive were screened and subjected to a selection process in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (preregistered on PROSPERO, ref. number CRD42021245096). The quality of the resulting articles were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and findings were tabulated through a data extraction process. SUMMARY 27 articles were included in the review. Various mental health indices such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, psychotic-like experiences, hypomanic symptoms and binge-purge type eating disorders were found to be associated with higher use of substances such as alcohol, cannabis, ecstasy and generalised drug use. Additionally, mental health indices such as depression, anxiety and self-harm were found to be associated with sex before age 16 and/or unprotected sex at age 16, positive Chlamydia infection and higher levels of sexual activity at a younger age. Overall, cross-sectional associations were stronger than the longitudinal associations presented in the articles. OUTLOOK This review into the specific relations between young people's mental health, sexual health and substance use has revealed the complex and bi-directional nature of these associations, with some conditions and substances having been more extensively investigated (e.g., alcohol and depression/anxiety) as opposed to the relations between young people's sexual health and mental health which is lacking in the UK and Irish context. The findings can help inform mental health related policies and service provisions targeted at young people in the UK and Ireland. Areas for future work are suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damla Harmanci
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, UK
| | - Natalie Edelman
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, UK.,School of Sport & Health Sciences, University of Brighton, Falmer, Brighton, UK
| | - Daniel Richardson
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, UK.,University Hospitals Sussex NHS foundation Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Alexandria Lunt
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, UK
| | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Falmer, Brighton, UK
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14
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BEYHAN A, ERGÜN A. Young Men’s Perceptions about Sexual Health and Sexual Education: A Qualitative Study. CLINICAL AND EXPERIMENTAL HEALTH SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.33808/clinexphealthsci.1092854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Objective: For healthy sexuality and effective sexual health education, it is important to know the sexual health perception of individuals, their sexual education needs, and the affecting factors. The purpose of this research is to learn in-depth the perceptions of young men about sexual health and sexual education.
Methods: This study was carried out in a health vocational school of a foundation university. The study was constituted using an in-depth interview method, and interviews were conducted with 16 students, 2 of whom were pilots. Content analysis was used to assess the obtained data.
Results: Sexual education with sexual behavior and health were determined as the main themes. The male students indicated level of sexual knowledge was insufficient, and they needed to receive comprehensive sexual education from a qualified specialist. In addition, they stated that education should be given to men and women separately, and in small groups. It was also found that friends,
religious and cultural values were important factors in sexual knowledge and behavior.
Conclusion: As a result, it has been revealed that male university students need sexual education, and the correct information can only be learned through a comprehensive and socio-cultural norms-sensitive education.
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Increasing Condom Use and STI Testing: Creating a Behaviourally Informed Sexual Healthcare Campaign Using the COM-B Model of Behaviour Change. Behav Sci (Basel) 2022; 12:bs12040108. [PMID: 35447680 PMCID: PMC9029660 DOI: 10.3390/bs12040108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health challenge. Although theoretically informed public health campaigns are more effective for changing behaviour, there is little evidence of their use when campaigns are commissioned to the commercial sector. This study describes the implementation of the COM-B model to a sexual health campaign that brought together expertise from academics, sexual healthcare, and marketing and creative professionals. Insights were gathered following a review of the relevant academic literature. Barriers and facilitators to condom use and STI testing were explored with the use of the COM-B model and the Behaviour Change Wheel in a workshop attended by academics, behavioural scientists, healthcare experts and creative designers. Feedback on the creative execution of the campaign was obtained from healthcare experts and via surveys. Barriers to psychological capability, automatic and reflective motivation, and social opportunity were identified as targets for the campaign, and creative solutions to these barriers were collaboratively devised. The final sexual health campaign was rated positively in its ability to change attitudes and intentions regarding the use of condoms and STI testing. This study describes the implementation of the COM-B model of behaviour change to a public sexual health campaign that brought together academics, public and commercial sector expertise. The barriers and facilitators identified in this collaborative process represent potential targets for future public health communication campaigns.
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16
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Lindberg LD, Kantor LM. Adolescents' Receipt of Sex Education in a Nationally Representative Sample, 2011-2019. J Adolesc Health 2022; 70:290-297. [PMID: 34743916 DOI: 10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Updated estimates of adolescents' receipt of sex education are needed to monitor trends and potential inequities. METHODS Using nationally representative data from the 2011-2015 and 2015-2019 National Survey of Family Growth, we use logistic regression to examine changes in the receipt of formal sex education by gender. For 2015-2019, we estimate patterns by gender and race/ethnicity for content, timing, and location of instruction. RESULTS Between 2011-2015 and 2015-2019, there were few significant changes in adolescents' receipt of formal sex education. Between these periods, instruction on waiting until marriage to have sex declined (73%-67% female [F.], p = .005; 70%-58% males [M.], p < .001). In both the periods, about half of the adolescents received sex education that meets the minimum standard articulated in national goals. In 2015-2019, there were significant gender differences in the instruction about waiting until marriage to have sex (67% F., 58% M., p < 001) and condom skills (55% F., 60% M., p = .003). Non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic males were less likely than non-Hispanic White males to receive formal instruction before the first sex on sexually transmitted infection/HIV, birth control, or where to get birth control. Many adolescents reported religious settings as the sources of instruction about waiting until marriage to have sex (56% F. and 49% M.), but almost none received instruction about birth control from those settings. CONCLUSIONS Differences in the receipt of sex education, by gender, race/ethnicity, and the location of instruction, leave many adolescents without critical information. Gaps in meeting national objectives indicate the need to expand the provision of sex education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Leslie M Kantor
- Department of Urban-Global Public Health, Rutgers University, Rutgers School of Public Health, New York, New Jersey
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Stark AL, Geukes C, Dockweiler C. Digital Health Promotion and Prevention in Settings: Scoping Review. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e21063. [PMID: 35089140 PMCID: PMC8838600 DOI: 10.2196/21063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital technologies are increasingly integrating into people's daily living environments such as schools, sport clubs, and health care facilities. These settings play a crucial role for health promotion and prevention because they affect the health of their members, as the World Health Organization has declared. Implementing digital health promotion and prevention in settings offers the opportunity to reach specific target groups, lower the costs of implementation, and improve the health of the population. Currently, there is a lack of scientific evidence that reviews the research on digital health promotion and prevention in settings. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to provide an overview of research targeting digital health promotion and primary prevention in settings. It assesses the range of scientific literature regarding outcomes such as applied technology, targeted setting, and area of health promotion or prevention, as well as identifies research gaps. METHODS The scoping review was conducted following the Levac, Colquhoun, and O'Brien framework. We searched scientific databases and gray literature for articles on digital setting-based health promotion and prevention published from 2010 to January 2020. We included empirical and nonempirical publications in English or German and excluded secondary or tertiary prevention and health promotion at the workplace. RESULTS From 8888 records, the search resulted in 200 (2.25%) included publications. We identified a huge diversity of literature regarding digital setting-based health promotion and prevention. The variety of technology types extends from computer- and web-based programs to mobile devices (eg, smartphone apps) and telemonitoring devices (sensors). We found analog, digital, and blended settings in which digital health promotion and prevention takes place. The most frequent analog settings were schools (39/200, 19.5%) and neighborhoods or communities (24/200, 12%). Social media apps were also included because in some studies they were defined as a (digital) setting. They accounted for 31.5% (63/200) of the identified settings. The most commonly focused areas of health promotion and prevention were physical activity (81/200, 40.5%), nutrition (45/200, 22.5%), and sexual health (34/200, 17%). Most of the interventions combined several health promotion or prevention methods, including environmental change; providing information, social support, training, or incentives; and monitoring. Finally, we found that the articles mostly reported on behavioral rather than structural health promotion and prevention. CONCLUSIONS The research field of digital health promotion and prevention in settings is heterogeneous. At the same time, we identified research gaps regarding the absence of valid definitions of relevant terms (eg, digital settings) and the lack of literature on structural health promotion and prevention in settings. Therefore, it remains unclear how digital technologies can contribute to structural (or organizational) changes in settings. More research is needed to successfully implement digital technologies to achieve health promotion and prevention in settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Lea Stark
- School of Public Health, Centre for ePublic Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Cornelia Geukes
- School of Public Health, Centre for ePublic Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany
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Nadarzynski T, Puentes V, Pawlak I, Mendes T, Montgomery I, Bayley J, Ridge D. Barriers and facilitators to engagement with artificial intelligence (AI)-based chatbots for sexual and reproductive health advice: a qualitative analysis. Sex Health 2021; 18:385-393. [PMID: 34782055 DOI: 10.1071/sh21123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) provides opportunities for demand management of sexual and reproductive health services. Conversational agents/chatbots are increasingly common, although little is known about how this technology could aid services. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators for engagement with sexual health chatbots to advise service developers and related health professionals. Methods In January-June 2020, we conducted face-to-face, semi-structured and online interviews to explore views on sexual health chatbots. Participants were asked to interact with a chatbot, offering advice on sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and relevant services. Participants were UK-based and recruited via social media. Data were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. Results Forty participants (aged 18-50 years; 64% women, 77% heterosexual, 58% white) took part. Many thought chatbots could aid sex education, providing useful information about STIs and sign-posting to sexual health services in a convenient, anonymous and non-judgemental way. Some compared chatbots to health professionals or Internet search engines and perceived this technology as inferior, offering constrained content and interactivity, limiting disclosure of personal information, trust and perceived accuracy of chatbot responses. Conclusions Despite mixed attitudes towards chatbots, this technology was seen as useful for anonymous sex education but less suitable for matters requiring empathy. Chatbots may increase access to clinical services but their effectiveness and safety need to be established. Future research should identify which chatbots designs and functions lead to optimal engagement with this innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Nadarzynski
- School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Vannesa Puentes
- Science, Engineering and Computing Faculty, Kingston University, London, UK
| | - Izabela Pawlak
- School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | - Tania Mendes
- School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
| | | | | | - Damien Ridge
- School of Social Sciences, University of Westminster, London, UK
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19
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Döring N, Conde M. [Sexual health information on social media: a systematic scoping review]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2021; 64:1416-1429. [PMID: 34648038 PMCID: PMC8550659 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-021-03431-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information on sexual and reproductive health is increasingly disseminated via social media and reaches a large audience. RESEARCH AIM Against this background, the aim of this paper is to systematically summarize the international state of research on sexual health information on social media for the first time with a scoping review. Seven research questions were explored, relating to the amount (F1), methods (F2: content analysis, F3: quality analysis), and results (F4: providers, F5: target groups, F6: topics, F7: quality of information) of previous studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study follows the PRISMA framework for scoping reviews as well as the Open Science approach. It is preregistered, and all materials (codebook with reliability coefficients) and data (list of identified studies and coding of studies) are available on the Open Science Foundation server. RESULTS A total of 69 studies with 72 data sets were identified, with more than half of the publications referring to YouTube (F1). Qualitative and quantitative methods of content analysis are used equally (F2) and quality analyses are rare (F3). Health laypersons dominate as the information providers (F4). The target groups are mostly unspecified (F5). The health information on social media examined in the previous studies covers a broad range of topics (F6). Where quality assessments were made, they tended to be negative (F7). DISCUSSION More research is needed to better understand sexual and reproductive health information on social media and to promote its quality and constructive use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Döring
- Institut für Medien und Kommunikationswissenschaft, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ehrenbergstraße 29, 98693, Ilmenau, Deutschland.
| | - Melisa Conde
- Institut für Medien und Kommunikationswissenschaft, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ehrenbergstraße 29, 98693, Ilmenau, Deutschland
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20
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Lewis R, Blake C, Shimonovich M, Coia N, Duffy J, Kerr Y, Wilson J, Graham CA, Mitchell KR. Disrupted prevention: condom and contraception access and use among young adults during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 47:269-276. [PMID: 33707178 PMCID: PMC7956735 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2020-200975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The initial response to COVID-19 in the UK involved a rapid contraction of face-to-face sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and widespread use of remote workarounds. This study sought to illuminate young people's experiences of accessing and using condoms and contraception in the early months of the pandemic. METHODS We analysed data, including open-text responses, from an online survey conducted in June-July 2020 with a convenience sample of 2005 16-24-year-olds living in Scotland. RESULTS Among those who used condoms and contraception, one quarter reported that COVID-19 mitigation measures had made a difference to their access or use. Open-text responses revealed a landscape of disrupted prevention, including changes to sexual risk-taking and preventive practices, unwanted contraceptive pathways, unmet need for sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, and switches from freely provided to commercially sold condoms and contraception. Pandemic-related barriers to accessing free condoms and contraception included: (1) uncertainty about the legitimacy of accessing SRH care and self-censorship of need; (2) confusion about differences between SRH care and advice received from healthcare professionals during the pandemic compared with routine practice; and (3) exacerbation of existing access barriers, alongside reduced social support and resources to navigate SRH care. CONCLUSIONS Emerging barriers to STI and pregnancy prevention within the context of COVID-19 have the potential to undermine positive SRH practices, and widen inequalities, among young people. As SRH services are restored amid evolving pandemic restrictions, messaging to support navigation of condom and contraception services should be co-created with young people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Lewis
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Carolyn Blake
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Michal Shimonovich
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Nicky Coia
- Sandyford Sexual Health Service, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | - Johann Duffy
- Health Improvement Department, NHS Lanarkshire, Bothwell, South Lanarkshire, UK
| | | | - Jill Wilson
- Sandyford Sexual Health Service, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Kirstin R Mitchell
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Gonenc IM, Alan Dikmen H, Golbasi Z. The Effect of WhatsApp-Based and Conventional Education Methods on Sexual Myths and Sexual Health Knowledge: A Comparative Intervention Study in Midwifery Students. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:326-341. [PMID: 38595743 PMCID: PMC10903558 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1913688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effects of sexual education provided via WhatsApp on the level of sexual knowledge and sexual myths in midwifery students in Turkey. Methods: Students were randomly divided into WhatsApp education, conventional education, and control groups. Data were collected using a Questionnaire Form, the Sexual Health Knowledge Test, and the Sexual Myth Scale. Results: Post-education and one-month-follow-up the Sexual Health Knowledge Test medians in the control group (24.0 and 27.0 respectively) were significantly lower than those of the WhatsApp (31.0 and 32.5 respectively) and conventional education groups (30.5 and 32.0 respectively) and Sexual Myth Scale medians in the control group (70.0 and 67.0 respectively) were significantly higher than those of the WhatsApp (55.5 and 60.0) and conventional education groups (53.0 and 55.0, respectively) (p < .001). There was no difference between WhatsApp and conventional education groups in terms of the Sexual Health Knowledge Test and Sexual Myth Scale scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Sexual education provided by conventional methods and via WhatsApp increased sexual health knowledge and decreased sexual myths.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zehra Golbasi
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Lokman Hekim University, Ankara, Turkey
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22
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Lameiras-Fernández M, Martínez-Román R, Carrera-Fernández MV, Rodríguez-Castro Y. Sex Education in the Spotlight: What Is Working? Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:2555. [PMID: 33806507 PMCID: PMC7967369 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18052555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Adolescence, a period of physical, social, cognitive and emotional development, represents a target population for sexual health promotion and education when it comes to achieving the 2030 Agenda goals for sustainable and equitable societies. The aim of this study is to provide an overview of what is known about the dissemination and effectiveness of sex education programs and thereby to inform better public policy making in this area. Methodology: We carried out a systematic review based on international scientific literature, in which only peer-reviewed papers were included. To identify reviews, we carried out an electronic search of the Cochrane Database Reviews, ERIC, Web of Science, PubMed, Medline, Scopus and PsycINFO. This paper provides a narrative review of reviews of the literature from 2015 to 2020. Results: 20 reviews met the inclusion criteria (10 in school settings, 9 using digital platforms and 1 blended learning program): they focused mainly on reducing risk behaviors (e.g., VIH/STIs and unwanted pregnancies), whilst obviating themes such as desire and pleasure, which were not included in outcome evaluations. The reviews with the lowest risk of bias are those carried out in school settings and are the ones that most question the effectiveness of sex education programs. Whilst the reviews of digital platforms and blended learning show greater effectiveness in terms of promoting sexual and reproductive health in adolescents (ASRH), they nevertheless also include greater risks of bias. Conclusion: A more rigorous assessment of the effectiveness of sexual education programs is necessary, especially regarding the opportunities offered by new technologies, which may lead to more cost-effective interventions than with in-person programs. Moreover, blended learning programs offer a promising way forward, as they combine the best of face-to-face and digital interventions, and may provide an excellent tool in the new context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Lameiras-Fernández
- Faculty of Education and Social Work, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain; (R.M.-R.); (M.V.C.-F.); (Y.R.-C.)
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Bloch SCM, Jackson LJ, Frew E, Ross JDC. Assessing the costs and outcomes of control programmes for sexually transmitted infections: a systematic review of economic evaluations. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:334-344. [PMID: 33653881 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify economic evaluations of interventions to control STIs and HIV targeting young people, and to assess how costs and outcomes are measured in these studies. DESIGN Systematic review. DATA SOURCES Seven databases were searched (Medline (Ovid), EMBASE (Ovid), Web of Science, PsycINFO, NHS Economic Evaluation Database, NHS Health Technology Assessment and Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects) from January 1999 to April 2019. Key search terms were STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis) and HIV, cost benefit, cost utility, economic evaluation, public health, screening, testing and control. REVIEW METHODS Studies were included that measured costs and outcomes to inform an economic evaluation of any programme to control STIs and HIV targeting individuals predominantly below 30 years of age at risk of, or affected by, one or multiple STIs and/or HIV in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. Data were extracted and tabulated and included study results and characteristics of economic evaluations. Study quality was assessed using the Philips and BMJ checklists. Results were synthesised narratively. RESULTS 9530 records were screened and categorised. Of these, 31 were included for data extraction and critical appraisal. The majority of studies assessed the cost-effectiveness or cost-utility of screening interventions for chlamydia from a provider perspective. The main outcome measures were major outcomes averted and quality-adjusted life years. Studies evaluated direct medical costs, for example, programme costs and 11 included indirect costs, such as productivity losses. The study designs were predominantly model-based with significant heterogeneity between the models. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION None of the economic evaluations encompassed aspects of equity or context, which are highly relevant to sexual health decision-makers. The review demonstrated heterogeneity in approaches to evaluate costs and outcomes for STI/HIV control programmes. The low quality of available studies along with the limited focus, that is, almost all studies relate to chlamydia, highlight the need for high-quality economic evaluations to inform the commissioning of sexual health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja C M Bloch
- Health Economics Unit, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Louise J Jackson
- Health Economics Unit, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Emma Frew
- Health Economics Unit, Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Jonathan D C Ross
- Whittall Street Clinic, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Nielsen AM, De Costa A, Gemzell-Danielsson K, Marrone G, Boman J, Salazar M, Diwan V. The MOSEXY trial: mobile phone intervention for sexual health in youth-a pragmatic randomised controlled trial to evaluate the effect of a smartphone application on sexual health in youth in Stockholm, Sweden. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:141-146. [PMID: 31628248 PMCID: PMC7892369 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2019-054027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
An estimated 350 million cases of STIs occur globally each year. In Sweden, Chlamydia is the most common STI with approximately 30 000 cases annually, disproportionally affecting youth. National surveys report low condom use among youth. Smartphone coverage is high among this tech-savvy group. In collaboration with youth, we developed an interactive smartphone application comprising games, peer experiences and information snippets to promote condom use. OBJECTIVES To evaluate in a randomised controlled trial, the effectiveness of this smartphone application to improve condom use among youth in Stockholm, Sweden. METHODS This two-arm, individually randomised controlled trial was implemented through the Youth Health Clinics (YHC) in Stockholm, Sweden. Youth aged 18-23 years, who owned a smartphone and had ≥2 sexual partners during the past 6 months were eligible. The intervention delivered the interactive elements described above over 180 days. The control group received a 'dummy' application. Both groups received standard of care at the YHC. The primary outcome was proportion of consistent (100%) self-reported condom use at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included self-reported number of partners, occurrence of STIs/pregnancy and STI tests during the study period. An intention-to-treat approach was used. RESULTS 214 and 219 youth were randomised to the intervention and control groups, respectively. Consistent condom use was reported for 32/214 (15.0%) in the intervention group and for 35/219 (16.0%) in the control group (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.6). No significant differences in secondary outcomes were seen. CONCLUSION We were unable to detect an effect of the intervention. Future research should focus on targeting different subgroups within the overall risk group, with tailored mHealth interventions. The potential for such interventions in settings where sexual health services are unavailable should be evaluated. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN13212899.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha De Costa
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Gaetano Marrone
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jens Boman
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umea Universitet Medicinska fakulteten, Umea, Sweden
| | - Mariano Salazar
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Vinod Diwan
- Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Berendes S, Gubijev A, McCarthy OL, Palmer MJ, Wilson E, Free C. Sexual health interventions delivered to participants by mobile technology: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Sex Transm Infect 2021; 97:190-200. [PMID: 33452130 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2020-054853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of mobile technologies to prevent STIs is recognised as a promising approach worldwide; however, evidence has been inconclusive, and the field has developed rapidly. With about 1 million new STIs a day globally, up-to-date evidence is urgently needed. OBJECTIVE To assess the effectiveness of mobile health interventions delivered to participants for preventing STIs and promoting preventive behaviour. METHODS We searched seven databases and reference lists of 49 related reviews (January 1990-February 2020) and contacted experts in the field. We included randomised controlled trials of mobile interventions delivered to adolescents and adults to prevent sexual transmission of STIs. We conducted meta-analyses and assessed risk of bias and certainty of evidence following Cochrane guidance. RESULTS After double screening 6683 records, we included 22 trials into the systematic review and 20 into meta-analyses; 18 trials used text messages, 3 used smartphone applications and 1 used Facebook messages as delivery modes. The certainty of evidence regarding intervention effects on STI/HIV occurrence and adverse events was low or very low. There was moderate certainty of evidence that in the short/medium-term text messaging interventions had little or no effect on condom use (standardised mean differences (SMD) 0.02, 95% CI -0.09 to 0.14, nine trials), but increased STI/HIV testing (OR 1.83, 95% CI 1.41 to 2.36, seven trials), although not if the standard-of-care control already contained an active text messaging component (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.68 to 1.47, two trials). Smartphone application messages also increased STI/HIV testing (risk ratio 1.40, 95% CI 1.22 to 1.60, subgroup analysis, two trials). The effects on other outcomes or of social media or blended interventions is uncertain due to low or very low certainty evidence. CONCLUSIONS Text messaging interventions probably increase STI/HIV testing but not condom use in the short/medium term. Ongoing trials will report the effects on biological and other outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sima Berendes
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Anasztazia Gubijev
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ona L McCarthy
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Melissa J Palmer
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Emma Wilson
- Population, Policy & Practice Department, Faculty of Population Health Sciences, University College London GOS Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Caroline Free
- Department of Population Health, Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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26
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Mitchell KR, Purcell C, Forsyth R, Barry S, Hunter R, Simpson SA, McDaid L, Elliot L, McCann M, Wetherall K, Broccatelli C, Bailey JV, Moore L. A peer-led intervention to promote sexual health in secondary schools: the STASH feasibility study. PUBLIC HEALTH RESEARCH 2020. [DOI: 10.3310/phr08150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background
Young people report higher levels of unsafe sex and have higher rates of sexually transmitted infections than any other age group. Schools are well placed to facilitate early intervention, but more effective approaches are required. Peer-led approaches can augment school-based education, but often fail to capitalise on mechanisms of social influence. The potential of using social media in sexual health has not been tested in school settings.
Objectives
Finalise the design of the Sexually Transmitted infections And Sexual Health (STASH) intervention; assess the recruitment and retention of peer supporters, and acceptability to participants and stakeholders; assess the fidelity and reach, in addition to the barriers to and facilitators of, implementation; refine programme theory; understand the potential of social media; determine design parameters for a future randomised controlled trial, including economic evaluation; and establish whether or not progression criteria were met.
Design
This was a feasibility study comprising intervention development and refinement of the STASH pilot and non-randomised feasibility trial in six schools. Control data were provided by students in the year above the intervention group.
Setting
Secondary schools in Scotland.
Participants
Students aged 14–16 years, teachers and intervention delivery partners.
Interventions
The STASH intervention was adapted from A Stop Smoking In Schools Trial (ASSIST) (an effective peer-led smoking intervention). Based on diffusion of innovation theory, the STASH study involves peer nomination to identify the most influential students, with the aim of recruiting and training 15% of the year group as peer supporters. The peer supporters deliver sexual health messages to friends in their year group via conversations and use of Facebook (www.facebook.com; Facebook, Inc., Menlo Park, CA, USA) to share varied content from a curated set of web-based resources. Peer supporters are given support themselves via follow-up sessions and via trainer membership of Facebook groups.
Main outcome measures
The primary outcome was whether or not progression criteria were met in relation to intervention acceptability and feasibility. The study also piloted indicative primary outcomes for a full-scale evaluation.
Data sources
Peer supporter questionnaire; observations of activities; interviews with trainers, teachers, peer supporters and students; monitoring log of peer supporter activities (including on Facebook and meeting attendance); questionnaire to control year group (baseline characteristics, social networks, mediators and sexual health outcomes); baseline and follow-up questionnaire (approximately 6 months later) for intervention year group.
Results
A total of 104 students were trained as peer supporters (just over half of those nominated for the role by their peers). Role retention was very high (97%). Of 611 students completing the follow-up questionnaire, 58% reported exposure to STASH study activities. Intervention acceptability was high among students and stakeholders. Activities were delivered with good fidelity. The peer supporters were active, representative of their year group and well connected within their social network. Carefully managed social media use by peer supporters augmented conversations. A primary outcome of ‘always safer sex’ was identified, measured as no sex or always condom use for vaginal or anal sex in the last 6 months. The intervention cost £42 per student. Six progression criteria were met. A seventh criterion (regarding uptake of role by peer supporters) was not.
Limitations
Small feasibility study that cannot comment on effectiveness.
Conclusions
The STASH intervention is feasible and acceptable within the context of Scottish secondary schools. The results support continuation to a full-scale evaluation.
Future work
Small-scale improvements to the intervention, refinement to programme theory and funding sought for full-scale evaluation.
Trial registration
Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN97369178.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Public Health Research programme and will be published in full in Public Health Research; Vol. 8, No. 15. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin R Mitchell
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Carrie Purcell
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Ross Forsyth
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Sarah Barry
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Strathclyde University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sharon A Simpson
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lawrie Elliot
- Department of Nursing and Community Health, School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - Mark McCann
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kirsty Wetherall
- Robertson Centre for Biostatistics, Institute of Health and Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Chiara Broccatelli
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laurence Moore
- Medical Research Council/Chief Scientist Office Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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27
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Wong WC, Sun WH, Chia SMC, Tucker JD, Mak WP, Song L, Choi KWY, Lau STH, Wan EYF. Effectiveness of a Peer-Led Web-Based Intervention to Improve General Self-Efficacy in Using Dating Apps Among Young Adults: Randomized Clustered Trial. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e16378. [PMID: 33124987 PMCID: PMC7665950 DOI: 10.2196/16378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Online dating apps are popular platforms for seeking romance and sexual relationships among young adults. As mobile apps can easily gain access to a pool of strangers ("new friends") at any time and place, it leads to heightened sexual health risks and privacy concerns. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a peer-led web-based intervention for online dating apps to prepare Chinese college students so that they have better self-efficacy when using dating apps. METHODS An open clustered randomized controlled trial was conducted among students from three colleges (The University of Hong Kong, Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, and Yijin Programme of Vocational Training College) in Hong Kong. Students aged 17 to 27 years who attended common core curriculum or general education were randomized into intervention and control groups. The intervention material, developed with high peer engagement, included four short videos, an interactive scenario game, and a risk assessment tool. An existing website promoting physical activities and healthy living was used as a control. Using the information, motivation, and behavioral skills (IMB) approach to design the evaluation, questionnaires covering participants' sociodemographics and dating app characteristics, as well as the general self-efficacy scale (GSE) as the primary outcome and the risk propensity scale (RPS) as the secondary outcome were administered before, immediately after, and at 1 month after the intervention. Intention-to-treat analysis was adopted, and between-group differences were assessed using the Mann-Whitney U test. A post-hoc multiple linear regression model was used to examine the correlates of the GSE and RPS. RESULTS A total of 578 eligible participants (290 in the intervention group and 288 in the control group) participated in the study with 36 lost to follow-up. There were more female participants (318/542, 58.7%) than male participants in the sample, reflecting the distribution of college students. Over half of the participants (286/542, 52.8%) reported the following reasons for using dating apps: being curious (170/498, 34.1%), trying to make new friends (158/498, 31.7%), and finding friends with similar interests (121/498, 24.3%). Overall, the participants in the intervention group reported favorable experiences when compared with the finding in the control group. There was significant improvement in the GSE score and reduction in the RPS score (P<.001) in the intervention group. University of Hong Kong students were more susceptible to risk reduction after the intervention when compared with students from the other two institutions. CONCLUSIONS The online intervention was effective in improving general self-efficacy and reducing risk tendency among young students. Future work is needed to determine if this approach is cost-effective and such behavioral change is sustainable. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03685643; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03685643. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s13063-018-3167-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Cw Wong
- Department of General Practice, University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China.,Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | - Shu Ming Cheryl Chia
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Joseph D Tucker
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Project China, Guangzhou, China.,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Lin Song
- Department of Communication, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, Macao
| | | | - Stephanie Tsz Hei Lau
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Eric Yuk Fai Wan
- Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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28
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Zhao N, Koch-Weser S, Lischko A, Chung M. Knowledge translation strategies designed for public health decision-making settings: a scoping review. Int J Public Health 2020; 65:1571-1580. [PMID: 33095270 DOI: 10.1007/s00038-020-01506-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To review and describe available Knowledge Translation (KT) strategies that are designed for or applied in public health decision-making settings. INTRODUCTION KT is the exchange, synthesis, and ethically sound application of knowledge. This review proposes that KT strategies in public health settings should be understood as action plans that promote evidence use and facilitate evidence-informed decision-making. METHODS This scoping review included studies that reported on KT strategies applied in public health settings, published between 2010 and 2017. Studies were searched using Medline, online KT database, and citation tracing. Data from 305 included studies were synthesized using a coding form and conceptually mapped to identify KT strategies used in public health settings. RESULTS A total of 124 unique examples of KT methods or tools were identified and summarized into 38 recommended and promising KT strategies. Built on the lists of recommended strategies, this review synthesized a framework that matched all 38 KT strategies to 10 key components of the evidence-informed decision-making process. CONCLUSIONS The public health KT strategies summarized and organized by this review promote a better understanding and more effective use of KT strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naisi Zhao
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Susan Koch-Weser
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Amy Lischko
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA
| | - Mei Chung
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Tufts University, 136 Harrison Ave, Boston, MA, 02111, USA.
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29
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Davis T, DiClemente RJ, Prietula M. Using ADAPT-ITT to Modify a Telephone-Based HIV Prevention Intervention for SMS Delivery: Formative Study. JMIR Form Res 2020; 4:e22485. [PMID: 32831178 PMCID: PMC7576465 DOI: 10.2196/22485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND African American adolescent females are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV. Given the elevated risk of STIs and HIV in African American women, there is an urgent need to identify innovative strategies to enhance the adoption and maintenance of STI and HIV preventive behaviors. Texting is a promising technology for creating preventive maintenance interventions (PMIs) that extend the efficacy of the original intervention. However, little guidance in public health literature is available for developing this type of application. OBJECTIVE This paper describes a formative pilot study that incorporates user experience methods to design and test PMI texts for Afiya, an original evidence-based intervention (EBI) specifically designed for African American adolescent females. This study aims to describe the adaptation process of health educator-led phone calling to text-based communication. METHODS The formative process followed the assessment, decision, adaptation, production, topical experts-integration, training, testing (ADAPT-ITT) framework for adapting EBIs and using them in a new setting, for a new target population or a modified intervention strategy. This study presents the details of how the phases of the ADAPT-ITT framework were applied to the design of the adaptation. An advisory board was constituted from the target population, consisting of 6 African American women aged 18-24 years, participating in formative activities for 12 weeks, and involving components of the PMI design. As Afiya included a telephone-based PMI, developers of the original Afiya phone scripts crafted the initial design of the SMS-based texts and texting protocol. The advisory board participated in the 1-day Afiya workshop, followed by 4 weeks of texting PMI messages and a midcourse focus group, followed by 4 more weeks of texting PMI messages, ultimately ending with a final focus group. At the advisory board's request, this phase included an optional, additional week of text-based PMI messages. RESULTS The methods provided a rich source of data and insights into the fundamental issues involved when constructing SMS-based PMI for this target population and for this EBI. Prior contact and context are essential as the health educator was identified as a key persona in the process and the messages were situated in the original (workshop) context. Narrative adaptations for personas emerged from advisory board discussions. Suggestions on how to expand the PMI to current, specific social contexts indicated that the use of narrative analysis is warranted. CONCLUSIONS The use of existing EBIs incorporating telephone-based PMI scripts facilitated the initial design of the texts, with a subsequent narrative analysis of the advisory board data providing additional adjustments given the actual context. Additional examination of the advisory board feedback revealed that personas would offer insight into and opportunities for a persona-specific modification of texting narratives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teaniese Davis
- Center for Research and Evaluation, Kaiser Permanente Georgia, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ralph Joseph DiClemente
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Michael Prietula
- Goizueta Business School & Hubert Department of Global Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
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30
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van Wees DA, Drissen MMCM, den Daas C, Heijman T, Kretzschmar MEE, Heijne JCM. The impact of STI test results and face-to-face consultations on subsequent behavior and psychological characteristics. Prev Med 2020; 139:106200. [PMID: 32659244 DOI: 10.1016/j.ypmed.2020.106200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing without face-to-face counselling is increasingly offered at sexual health centers (SHC), and ordering self-sampling tests online is becoming more popular. However, the impact of testing without counselling on behavior is unknown. We examine the impact of STI testing with and without consultation and the combined effect of a positive test result and treatment consultation, on behavioral and psychological characteristics over time. Data from a longitudinal study among heterosexual SHC visitors aged 18-24 years was used. The impact of a test consultation (participants who tested chlamydia negative with vs. without consultation) and treatment consultation/positive test result (participants who tested chlamydia positive vs. negative), was assessed by comparing behavioral and psychological characteristics before testing (baseline), and at three-week and six-month follow-up, using generalized estimating equation models. Changes after testing were similar between participants who tested chlamydia negative with and without test consultation, namely decreased risk perception, shame, number of partners, and increased knowledge. However, participants who tested chlamydia positive reported stronger increases in health goals and intentions towards condom use, and stronger decreases in the number of partners and stigma, compared to participants who tested negative. Furthermore, condom use increased in chlamydia positive, and decreased in chlamydia negative participants. A treatment consultation/positive test result had a risk-reducing impact on behavioral and psychological characteristics, whereas the impact of a test consultation was limited. Since the majority of young heterosexuals test chlamydia negative, alternative interventions (e.g., online) achieving risk-reducing behavior change targeted to individuals who tested negative are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daphne A van Wees
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Meggie M C M Drissen
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Chantal den Daas
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Titia Heijman
- Public Health Service Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mirjam E E Kretzschmar
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Janneke C M Heijne
- Center for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
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31
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Ventuneac A, Li DH, Mongrella MC, Moskowitz DA, Weingardt KR, Brown CH, Parsons JT, Mustanski B. Exploring potential implementation barriers and facilitators of the SMART Program, a stepped-care package of eHealth HIV prevention interventions for adolescent men who have sex with men. SEXUALITY RESEARCH & SOCIAL POLICY : JOURNAL OF NSRC : SR & SP 2020; 17:378-388. [PMID: 32884583 PMCID: PMC7462358 DOI: 10.1007/s13178-019-00402-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about how to best implement eHealth HIV interventions for adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) in real-world settings. In response, our current study describes formative implementation research with community-based organizations (CBOs) in preparation for future implementation of the SMART Program, a stepped-care package of three interventions adapted for AMSM. In-depth interviews focusing on eHealth implementation were conducted with a convenience sample of 12 stakeholders from nine CBOs that actively implemented sexual-minority-focused HIV/AIDS prevention programs. Qualitative analysis was conducted using Dedoose to identify salient themes. Most programs implemented at the CBOs engaged adult MSM for HIV prevention, but CBOs reported less experience with outreach of AMSM for HIV prevention. While comfortable with and skilled at implementing traditional in-person HIV prevention programs, interviewees reported that eHealth programs fell outside of their organizations' technical capacities. They suggested specific strategies to facilitate successful implementation of SMART and other eHealth programs, including technical-capacity-building at CBOs, better training of staff, and partnering with a national coordinating center that provides support for the technology. Overall, the CBOs reported enthusiasm for the SMART Program and thought it an efficient way to bridge their current gaps in online programming and lack of AMSM HIV prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Ventuneac
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Division of Infectious Diseases, New York, NY, USA
| | - Dennis H. Li
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Melissa C. Mongrella
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David A. Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - C. Hendricks Brown
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Prevention Implementation Methodology for Drug Abuse and HIV, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey T. Parsons
- Department of Psychology, Hunter College and the Graduate Center of the City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Prevention Implementation Methodology for Drug Abuse and HIV, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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32
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Martin P, Cousin L, Gottot S, Bourmaud A, de La Rochebrochard E, Alberti C. Participatory Interventions for Sexual Health Promotion for Adolescents and Young Adults on the Internet: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e15378. [PMID: 32735217 PMCID: PMC7428916 DOI: 10.2196/15378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Revised: 11/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The World Health Organization recommends the development of participatory sexuality education. In health promotion, web-based participatory interventions have great potential in view of the internet’s popularity among young people. Objective The aim of this review is to describe existing published studies on online participatory intervention methods used to promote the sexual health of adolescents and young adults. Methods We conducted a systematic review based on international scientific and grey literature. We used the PubMed search engine and Aurore database for the search. Articles were included if they reported studies on participatory intervention, included the theme of sexual health, were conducted on the internet (website, social media, online gaming system), targeted populations aged between 10 and 24 years, and had design, implementation, and evaluation methods available. We analyzed the intervention content, study implementation, and evaluation methods for all selected articles. Results A total of 60 articles were included, which described 37 interventions; several articles were published about the same intervention. Process results were published in many articles (n=40), in contrast to effectiveness results (n=23). Many of the 37 interventions were developed on websites (n=20). The second most used medium is online social networks (n=13), with Facebook dominating this group (n=8). Online peer interaction is the most common participatory component promoted by interventions (n=23), followed by interaction with a professional (n=16). Another participatory component is game-type activity (n=10). Videos were broadcast for more than half of the interventions (n=20). In total, 43% (n=16) of the interventions were based on a theoretical model, with many using the Information-Motivation-Behavioral Skills model (n=7). Less than half of the interventions have been evaluated for effectiveness (n=17), while one-third (n=12) reported plans to do so and one-fifth (n=8) did not indicate any plan for effectiveness evaluation. The randomized controlled trial is the most widely used study design (n=16). Among the outcomes (evaluated or planned for evaluation), sexual behaviors are the most evaluated (n=14), followed by condom use (n=11), and sexual health knowledge (n=8). Conclusions Participatory online interventions for young people’s sexual health have shown their feasibility, practical interest, and attractiveness, but their effectiveness has not yet been sufficiently evaluated. Online peer interaction, the major participatory component, is not sufficiently conceptualized and defined as a determinant of change or theoretical model component. One potential development would be to build a conceptual model integrating online peer interaction and support as a component.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Martin
- Université de Paris, ECEVE, INSERM, Paris, France.,Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques, UR14 - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Paris, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, CESP, INSERM, Le Kremlin Bicetre, France.,GDID Santé, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Elise de La Rochebrochard
- Institut National d'Etudes Démographiques, UR14 - Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Paris, France.,Université Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Sud, UVSQ, CESP, INSERM, Le Kremlin Bicetre, France
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Kader Z, Roman NV, Crutzen R. Determinants of Adolescent Hookah Pipe Use: A Systematic Review. JOURNAL OF CHILD & ADOLESCENT SUBSTANCE ABUSE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/1067828x.2020.1789525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Zainab Kader
- University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Rik Crutzen
- Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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Nadarzynski T, Bayley J, Llewellyn C, Kidsley S, Graham CA. Acceptability of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled chatbots, video consultations and live webchats as online platforms for sexual health advice. BMJ SEXUAL & REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2020; 46:210-217. [PMID: 31964779 DOI: 10.1136/bmjsrh-2018-200271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 12/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services are undergoing a digital transformation. This study explored the acceptability of three digital services, (i) video consultations via Skype, (ii) live webchats with a health advisor and (iii) artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled chatbots, as potential platforms for SRH advice. METHODS A pencil-and-paper 33-item survey was distributed in three clinics in Hampshire, UK for patients attending SRH services. Logistic regressions were performed to identify the correlates of acceptability. RESULTS In total, 257 patients (57% women, 50% aged <25 years) completed the survey. As the first point of contact, 70% preferred face-to-face consultations, 17% telephone consultation, 10% webchats and 3% video consultations. Most would be willing to use video consultations (58%) and webchat facilities (73%) for ongoing care, but only 40% found AI chatbots acceptable. Younger age (<25 years) (OR 2.43, 95% CI 1.35 to 4.38), White ethnicity (OR 2.87, 95% CI 1.30 to 6.34), past sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnosis (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.07 to 3.95), self-reported STI symptoms (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.97), smartphone ownership (OR 16.0, 95% CI 3.64 to 70.5) and the preference for a SRH smartphone application (OR 1.95, 95% CI 1.13 to 3.35) were associated with video consultations, webchats or chatbots acceptability. CONCLUSIONS Although video consultations and webchat services appear acceptable, there is currently little support for SRH chatbots. The findings demonstrate a preference for human interaction in SRH services. Policymakers and intervention developers need to ensure that digital transformation is not only cost-effective but also acceptable to users, easily accessible and equitable to all populations using SRH services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Nadarzynski
- Department of Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jake Bayley
- Sexual Health and HIV, Bart's Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Primary Care & Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School (BSMS), Brighton, UK
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Li DH, Brown CH, Gallo C, Morgan E, Sullivan PS, Young SD, Mustanski B. Design Considerations for Implementing eHealth Behavioral Interventions for HIV Prevention in Evolving Sociotechnical Landscapes. Curr HIV/AIDS Rep 2020; 16:335-348. [PMID: 31250195 DOI: 10.1007/s11904-019-00455-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Despite tremendous potential for public health impact and continued investments in development and evaluation, it is rare for eHealth behavioral interventions to be implemented broadly in practice. Intervention developers may not be planning for implementation when designing technology-enabled interventions, thus creating greater challenges for real-world deployment following a research trial. To facilitate faster translation to practice, we aimed to provide researchers and developers with an implementation-focused approach and set of design considerations as they develop new eHealth programs. RECENT FINDINGS Using the Accelerated Creation-to-Sustainment model as a lens, we examined challenges and successes experienced during the development and evaluation of four diverse eHealth HIV prevention programs for young men who have sex with men: Keep It Up!, Harnessing Online Peer Education, Guy2Guy, and HealthMindr. HIV is useful for studying eHealth implementation because of the substantial proliferation of diverse eHealth interventions with strong evidence of reach and efficacy and the responsiveness to rapid and radical disruptions in the field. Rather than locked-down products to be disseminated, eHealth interventions are complex sociotechnical systems that require continual optimization, vigilance to monitor and troubleshoot technological issues, and decision rules to refresh content and functionality while maintaining fidelity to core intervention principles. Platform choice and sociotechnical relationships (among end users, implementers, and the technology) heavily influence implementation needs and challenges. We present a checklist of critical implementation questions to address during intervention development. In the absence of a clear path forward for eHealth implementation, deliberate design of an eHealth intervention's service and technological components in tandem with their implementation plans is critical to mitigating barriers to widespread use. The design considerations presented can be used by developers, evaluators, reviewers, and funders to prioritize the pragmatic scalability of eHealth interventions in research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dennis H Li
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA. .,Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - C Hendricks Brown
- Center for Prevention Implementation Methodology for Drug Abuse and HIV, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Carlos Gallo
- Center for Prevention Implementation Methodology for Drug Abuse and HIV, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ethan Morgan
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Patrick S Sullivan
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Sean D Young
- Institute for Prediction Technology, Department of Informatics, Bren School of Information and Computer Science, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.,Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA.,Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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Karim H, Choobineh H, Kheradbin N, Ravandi MH, Naserpor A, Safdari R. Mobile health applications for improving the sexual health outcomes among adults with chronic diseases: A systematic review. Digit Health 2020; 6:2055207620906956. [PMID: 32128234 PMCID: PMC7036501 DOI: 10.1177/2055207620906956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims Chronic diseases may affect sexual health as an important factor for well-being. Mobile health (m-health) interventions have the potential to improve sexual health in patients with chronic conditions. The aim of this systematic review was to summarise the published evidence on mobile interventions for sexual health in adults with chronic diseases. Methods Five electronic databases were searched for English language peer-reviewed literature from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2019. Appropriate keywords were identified based on the study's aim. Study selection was based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis statement. The full texts of potential studies were reviewed, and final studies were selected. The m-health evidence reporting and assessment (mERA) checklist was used to assess the quality of the selected studies. After data extraction from the studies, data analysis was conducted. Results Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. All interventions were delivered through websites, and a positive effect on sexual problems was reported. Prostate and breast cancer were considered in most studies. Interventions were delivered for therapy, self-help and consultation purposes. Quality assessment of studies revealed an acceptable quality of reporting and methodological criteria in the selected studies. Replicability, security, cost assessment and conceptual adaptability were the criteria that had not been considered in any of the reviewed studies. Conclusions Reviewed studies showed a positive effect of mobile interventions on sexual health outcomes in chronic patients. For more effective interventions, researchers should design web-based interventions based on users' needs and consider the m-health essential criteria provided by mERA. Additionally, mobile interventions can be more effective in combination with smartphone apps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesam Karim
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Hamid Choobineh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran.,Zeoonosis Research Centre, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Niloofar Kheradbin
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosseini Ravandi
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Ahmad Naserpor
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Reza Safdari
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Patterson S, McDaid L, Hunt K, Hilton S, Flowers P, McMillan L, Milne D, Lorimer K. How men and women learn about sex: multi-generational perspectives on insufficient preparedness and prevailing gender norms in Scotland. SEX EDUCATION 2019; 20:441-456. [PMID: 32939157 PMCID: PMC7455048 DOI: 10.1080/14681811.2019.1683534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Attitudes towards sexual health and relationships are learned from a young age, and there is an ongoing need for innovative and comprehensive approaches to sex education that keep pace with rapidly changing contexts of people's lives. We used thematic analysis of data from two qualitative studies in Scotland to explore learning contexts from a multi-generational perspective, as well as the influence of different socio-cultural factors on provision, access to and experience of sex education. The importance, but inadequacy, of school as a source of learning, was a persistent theme over time. Participants' strategies to address perceived gaps in knowledge included experience, conversations, vicarious and online learning. Gender and age differences emerged, with younger participants more likely to go online for information, and prevailing gender norms shaping attitudes and behaviours across both study groups. Participants who identified as gay, lesbian or bisexual described feeling particularly unprepared for sex and relationships due to the narrow, heteronormative content received. Although schools continue to be a common source of information, it appears that they fail to equip young people for their post-school sexual life-course. We recommend the mandatory provision of comprehensive, positive, inclusive and skills-based learning to improve people's chances of forming and building healthy, positive relationships across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Patterson
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Kate Hunt
- Institute for Social Marketing, Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - Shona Hilton
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul Flowers
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lesley McMillan
- Department of Social Sciences, Glasgow School for Business and Society, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - Karen Lorimer
- School of Health & Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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Can Teenage Men Be Targeted to Prevent Teenage Pregnancy? A Feasibility Cluster Randomised Controlled Intervention Trial in Schools. PREVENTION SCIENCE : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR PREVENTION RESEARCH 2019; 19:1079-1090. [PMID: 30022356 PMCID: PMC6208578 DOI: 10.1007/s11121-018-0928-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The World Health Organisation advocates a direct focus on adolescent men in reducing adolescent pregnancy; however, no trials have been conducted. This trial (ISRCTN11632300; NCT02092480) determines whether a novel Relationship and Sexuality Educational intervention, If I Were Jack, is acceptable and feasible to implement in mixed sex UK classrooms. The intervention is a teacher-delivered intervention that emphasises male alongside female responsibility in preventing unintended pregnancies and is designed to prevent unprotected sex. The trial was a parallel-group cluster randomised controlled feasibility trial with embedded process and cost evaluation in eight secondary schools (unit of randomisation) among 831 pupils (mean age 14) in Northern Ireland, alongside a qualitative evaluation of transferability in ten schools in Scotland, Wales and England. The sampling strategy was a maximum variation quota sample designed to capture a range of school management types. Four schools were randomised to each arm and the control arm continued with usual practice. Study duration was 12 months (from November 2014), with follow-up 9 months post-baseline. Results demonstrated that the intervention was acceptable to schools, pupils and teachers, and could be feasibly implemented, cost-effectively, with minor enhancements. The between-group difference in incidence of unprotected sex (primary outcome at pupil level) of 1.3% (95% CI 0.5–2.2) by 9 months demonstrated a potential effect size consistent with those reported to have had meaningful impact on teenage pregnancy. The study responds to global health policy for a paradigm shift towards inclusion of men in the achievement of sexual and reproductive health goals in a practical way by demonstrating that a gender-sensitive as well as a gender transformative intervention targeting males to prevent teenage pregnancy is acceptable to adolescent men and women and implementable in formal education structures. If I Were Jack now merits further effectiveness testing.
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Hobbs LJ, Mitchell KR, Graham CA, Trifonova V, Bailey J, Murray E, Prah P, Mercer CH. Help-Seeking for Sexual Difficulties and the Potential Role of Interactive Digital Interventions: Findings From the Third British National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2019; 56:937-946. [PMID: 30907691 PMCID: PMC6816537 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2019.1586820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Sexual difficulties are common and can negatively impact health and well-being. A wide range of support is available, but there are multiple barriers to accessing help. Interactive digital interventions (IDIs) for sexual difficulties have the potential to provide a convenient, wide-reaching, and cost-effective source of support, but little is known about who might use them. We explored the potential reach of IDIs by assessing the prevalence of help-seeking among people with distressing sexual difficulties, including who seeks which sources of help. Data came from sexually active men and women, ages 16 to 74, participating in Britain's third National Survey of Sexual Attitudes and Lifestyles (Natsal-3) (N = 11,637). Help/advice was sought by less than half of those with distressing sexual difficulties, and help-seeking was associated with younger age in women but not men. The most popular sources of support were family doctor (47.5% to 54.8%), Internet (22.0% to 25.6%), and family/friend (20.7% to 41.8%), with older participants (≥ 35), particularly men, preferring to seek help from a family doctor, and younger participants (<35) preferring to seek help from the Internet or family/friend. Despite a paucity of good digital support sites for sexual function, the Internet is a common source of help. As Internet access continues to increase, so too does the potential for well-designed IDIs to support those with sexual difficulties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna J. Hobbs
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | | | | | | | - Julia Bailey
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- eHealth Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Phil Prah
- Institute for Global Health, University College London
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Madkins K, Moskowitz DA, Moran K, Dellucci TV, Mustanski B. Measuring Acceptability and Engagement of The Keep It Up! Internet-Based HIV Prevention Randomized Controlled Trial for Young Men Who Have Sex With Men. AIDS EDUCATION AND PREVENTION : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR AIDS EDUCATION 2019; 31:287-305. [PMID: 31361516 PMCID: PMC6939469 DOI: 10.1521/aeap.2019.31.4.287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
HIV disproportionately impacts young men of color who have sex with men. Keep It Up! (KIU!) is an online intervention that addresses the needs of this population. The study objective was to examine intervention acceptability and engagement. Outcomes of interests were qualitative and quantitative acceptability and engagement measures, content ratings, and paradata. On average, participants rated content (4 out of 5 stars) and acceptability (3.5 out of 4) highly. Compared to White participants, Black participants found KIU! more useful, engaging, and acceptable; Latino participants found KIU! more engaging; and other non-White participants found KIU! more engaging and acceptable. Participants with high school or less education found KIU! more useful, engaging, acceptable, and deserving of five stars than college graduates (p values = .047, <.001, .002, .01) and graduate degree holders (p values = .04, .001, <.001, .004). KIU! is a promising prevention tool for highest risk populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krystal Madkins
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine and Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - David A. Moskowitz
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine and Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Kevin Moran
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine and Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Trey V. Dellucci
- The Graduate Center of the City University of New York, New York, NY
| | - Brian Mustanski
- Department of Medical Social Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine and Institute for Sexual and Gender Minority Health and Wellbeing, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
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Newby K, Crutzen R, Brown K, Bailey J, Saunders J, Szczepura A, Hunt J, Alston T, Sadiq ST, Das S. An Intervention to Increase Condom Use Among Users of Chlamydia Self-Sampling Websites (Wrapped): Intervention Mapping and Think-Aloud Study. JMIR Form Res 2019; 3:e11242. [PMID: 31042156 PMCID: PMC6658247 DOI: 10.2196/11242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 12/04/2018] [Accepted: 01/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young people aged 16-24 years are disproportionately affected by sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STIs can have serious health consequences for affected individuals and the estimated annual cost of treatment to the National Health Service is £620 million. Accordingly, the UK government has made reducing the rates of STIs among this group a priority. A missed opportunity to intervene to increase condom use is when young people obtain self-sampling kits for STIs via the internet. OBJECTIVE Our aim was to develop a theory-based tailored intervention to increase condom use for 16-24-years-olds accessing chlamydia self-sampling websites. METHODS The intervention, Wrapped, was developed using Intervention Mapping and was co-designed with young people. The following steps were performed: (1) identification of important determinants of condom use and evidence of their changeability using computer and digital interventions; (2) setting the intervention goal, performance objectives, and change objectives; (3) identification of Behavior Change Principles (BCPs) and practical strategies to target these determinants; and (4) development of intervention materials able to deliver the BCPs and practical strategies. RESULTS Users of existing chlamydia self-sampling websites are signposted to Wrapped after placing an order for a sampling kit. Salient barriers to condom use are identified by each user and relevant intervention components are allocated to target these. The components include the following: (1) a sample box of condoms, (2) an online condom distribution service, (3) a product for carrying condoms, (4) a condom demonstration video, (5) a series of videos on communication about condom use, and (6) erotic films of real couples discussing and demonstrating condom use. CONCLUSIONS This intervention will be directed at young people who may be particularly receptive to messages and support for behavior change due to their testing status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Newby
- Centre for Advances in Behavioural Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Rik Crutzen
- Health Promotion, School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Katherine Brown
- Centre for Advances in Behavioural Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Julia Bailey
- Primary Care and Population Health, Institute of Epidemiology and Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Saunders
- Health Protection Services, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ala Szczepura
- Enterprise and Innovation, Coventry University, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Jonny Hunt
- Going Off The Rails, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | | | - S Tariq Sadiq
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Satyajit Das
- Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust, Coventry, United Kingdom
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Patterson SP, Hilton S, Flowers P, McDaid LM. What are the barriers and challenges faced by adolescents when searching for sexual health information on the internet? Implications for policy and practice from a qualitative study. Sex Transm Infect 2019; 95:462-467. [PMID: 31040251 DOI: 10.1136/sextrans-2018-053710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 01/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES As sexual health information is increasingly presented digitally, and adolescents are increasingly seeking sexual health information on the internet, it is important to explore the challenges presented by this developing source of information provision. This study examined the key barriers and challenges faced by young people when accessing and using sexual health information online. METHODS A novel qualitative approach was used which combined paired interviews with real-time online activities. A purposive sample of 49 young people aged between 16 and 19 years and diverse in terms of gender, sexuality, religion and socio-demographic background were recruited from areas across Scotland. Data analysis comprised framework analysis of conversational data (including pair interactions), descriptive analysis of observational data, and data integration. RESULTS This study highlighted practical and socio-cultural barriers to engagement with online sexual health content. Key practical barriers included difficulty filtering overabundant content; limited awareness of specific, relevant, trusted online sources; difficulties in finding locally relevant information about services; and difficulties in navigating large organisations' websites. Key socio-cultural barriers included fear of being observed; wariness about engaging with visual and auditory content; concern about unintentionally accessing sexually explicit content; and reticence to access sexual health information on social networking platforms or through smartphone applications. These practical and socio-cultural barriers restricted access to information and influenced searching practices. CONCLUSION This study provides insights into some of the key barriers faced by young people in accessing and engaging with sexual health information and support online. Reducing such challenges is essential. We highlight the need for sexual health information providers and intervention developers to produce online information that is accurate and accessible; to increase awareness of and promote reliable, accessible sources; and to be sensitive to young people's concerns about 'being seen' accessing sexual health information regarding audio-visual content and platform choice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shona Hilton
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Paul Flowers
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Lisa M McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social and Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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King C, Llewellyn C, Shahmanesh M, Abraham C, Bailey J, Burns F, Clark L, Copas A, Howarth A, Hughes G, Mercer C, Miners A, Pollard A, Richardson D, Rodger A, Roy A, Gilson R. Sexual risk reduction interventions for patients attending sexual health clinics: a mixed-methods feasibility study. Health Technol Assess 2019; 23:1-122. [PMID: 30916641 PMCID: PMC6452239 DOI: 10.3310/hta23120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to represent a major public health challenge. There is evidence that behavioural interventions to reduce risky sexual behaviours can reduce STI rates in patients attending sexual health (SH) services. However, it is not known if these interventions are effective when implemented at scale in SH settings in England. OBJECTIVES The study (Santé) had two main objectives - (1) to develop and pilot a package of evidence-based sexual risk reduction interventions that can be delivered through SH services and (2) to assess the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial (RCT) to determine effectiveness against usual care. DESIGN The project was a multistage, mixed-methods study, with developmental and pilot RCT phases. Preparatory work included a systematic review, an analysis of national surveillance data, the development of a triage algorithm, and interviews and surveys with SH staff and patients to identify, select and adapt interventions. A pilot cluster RCT was planned for eight SH clinics; the intervention would be offered in four clinics, with qualitative and process evaluation to assess feasibility and acceptability. Four clinics acted as controls; in all clinics, participants would be consented to a 6-week follow-up STI screen. SETTING SH clinics in England. PARTICIPANTS Young people (aged 16-25 years), and men who have sex with men. INTERVENTION A three-part intervention package - (1) a triage tool to score patients as being at high or low risk of STI using routine data, (2) a study-designed web page with tailored SH information for all patients, regardless of risk and (3) a brief one-to-one session based on motivational interviewing for high-risk patients. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The three outcomes were (1) the acceptability of the intervention to patients and SH providers, (2) the feasibility of delivering the interventions within existing resources and (3) the feasibility of obtaining follow-up data on STI diagnoses (primary outcome in a full trial). RESULTS We identified 33 relevant trials from the systematic review, including videos, peer support, digital and brief one-to-one sessions. Patients and SH providers showed preferences for one-to-one and digital interventions, and providers indicated that these intervention types could feasibly be implemented in their settings. There were no appropriate digital interventions that could be adapted in time for the pilot; therefore, we created a placeholder for the purposes of the pilot. The intervention package was piloted in two SH settings, rather than the planned four. Several barriers were found to intervention implementation, including a lack of trained staff time and clinic space. The intervention package was theoretically acceptable, but we observed poor engagement. We recruited patients from six clinics for the follow-up, rather than eight. The completion rate for follow-up was lower than anticipated (16% vs. 46%). LIMITATIONS Fewer clinics were included in the pilot than planned, limiting the ability to make strong conclusions on the feasibility of the RCT. CONCLUSION We were unable to conclude whether or not a definitive RCT would be feasible because of challenges in implementation of a pilot, but have laid the groundwork for future research in the area. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN16738765. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 23, No. 12. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carina King
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carrie Llewellyn
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | | | | | - Julia Bailey
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Fiona Burns
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Laura Clark
- Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, Brighton, UK
| | - Andrew Copas
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- London Hub for Trials Methodology Research, Medical Research Council Clinical Trials Unit, London, UK
| | - Alison Howarth
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Gwenda Hughes
- Sexually Transmitted Infection Surveillance, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Cath Mercer
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Alec Miners
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alex Pollard
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | | | - Alison Rodger
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Anupama Roy
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK
| | - Richard Gilson
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
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Levitz N, Wood E, Kantor L. The Influence of Technology Delivery Mode on Intervention Outcomes: Analysis of a Theory-Based Sexual Health Program. J Med Internet Res 2018; 20:e10398. [PMID: 30158100 PMCID: PMC6135965 DOI: 10.2196/10398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2018] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/28/2018] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There are few studies on the role of technology delivery mode on health intervention outcomes. Furthermore, the opportunity to examine potential mode effects on a program that is theory-based and integrates principles of communication and decision-making science to influence sexual and reproductive health outcomes is a new contribution to the literature. Objective Planned Parenthood Federation of America’s national Chat/Text program can be accessed via short message service (SMS; more commonly referred to as text messaging), Web-based desktop chatting, and mobile phone chatting. The program has been in existence since 2010 and has conducted over 1,000,000 conversations. In this study, we examined whether the mode used to access the program (SMS text, desktop chat, or mobile phone chat) affected program users’ intention to act on the action plan established in their conversation. Methods Data were examined for a 6-month period from January 2016 to June 2016. The data were collected as a part of the monitoring and evaluation of an ongoing program. We limited our sample to the program’s priority audience of 15-24 years residing within the United States, which resulted in a sample of 64,939 conversations. Available data items for analysis included user demographics, delivery mode, topic discussed, helpfulness rating (on a 4-point scale), user confidence in following through on the intentions made during the conversation (on a 4-point scale), and educator confidence in whether the user would follow through on the stated intention. Linear and multinomial robust regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between conversation delivery mode and confidence. Results No significant relationships between users’ confidence to carry out their intentions and gender or race were found. None of the 3 modalities (SMS text, desktop chat, or mobile phone chat) were significantly associated with user confidence. All the 3 modalities had significant associations with educator confidence and showed similar effect sizes to those of user confidence. Educator confidence was significantly associated with all the topics discussed. Conclusions The Planned Parenthood Chat/Text program was designed as a tool to improve access to sexual and reproductive health care among young people. The mode of intervention delivery was not associated with users’ confidence in their ability to carry out their stated intention, suggesting that all modes are legitimate for delivering this intervention. Furthermore, each mode worked across gender and race or ethnicity, indicating that this is a modality that can work across groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Levitz
- Planned Parenthood Federation of America, New York, NY, United States
| | - Erica Wood
- Planned Parenthood Federation of America, New York, NY, United States
| | - Leslie Kantor
- Planned Parenthood Federation of America, New York, NY, United States.,Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Newark, NJ, United States
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Lohan M, Aventin Á, Clarke M, Curran RM, Maguire L, Hunter R, McDowell C, McDaid L, Young H, White J, Fletcher A, French R, Bonell C, Bailey JV, O'Hare L. JACK trial protocol: a phase III multicentre cluster randomised controlled trial of a school-based relationship and sexuality education intervention focusing on young male perspectives. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022128. [PMID: 30056390 PMCID: PMC6067362 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Teenage pregnancy remains a worldwide health concern which is an outcome of, and contributor to, health inequalities. The need for gender-aware interventions with a focus on males in addressing teenage pregnancy has been highlighted as a global health need by WHO and identified in systematic reviews of (relationship and sexuality education (RSE)). This study aims to test the effectiveness of an interactive film-based RSE intervention, which draws explicit attention to the role of males in preventing an unintended pregnancy by reducing unprotected heterosexual teenage sex among males and females under age 16 years. METHODS AND ANALYSIS A phase III cluster randomised trial with embedded process and economic evaluations. If I Were Jack encompasses a culturally sensitive interactive film, classroom materials, a teacher-trainer session and parent animations and will be delivered to replace some of the usual RSE for the target age group in schools in the intervention group. Schools in the control group will not receive the intervention and will continue with usual RSE. Participants will not be blinded to allocation. Schools are the unit of randomisation stratified per country and socioeconomic status. We aim to recruit 66 UK schools (24 in Northern Ireland; 14 in each of England, Scotland and Wales), including approximately 7900 pupils. A questionnaire will be administered at baseline and at 12-14 months postintervention. The primary outcome is reported unprotected sex, a surrogate measure associated with unintended teenage pregnancy. Secondary outcomes include knowledge, attitudes, skills and intentions relating to avoiding teenage pregnancy in addition to frequency of engagement in sexual intercourse, contraception use and diagnosis of sexually transmitted infections. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION Ethical approval was obtained from Queen's University Belfast. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated to stakeholders. Funding is from the National Institute for Health Research. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN99459996.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Lohan
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Áine Aventin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Mike Clarke
- Centre for Public Health, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
- Northern Ireland Clinical Trials Unit, Belfast, UK
| | - Rhonda M Curran
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Lisa Maguire
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Lisa McDaid
- MRC/CSO Social & Public Health Sciences Unit, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Honor Young
- The Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - James White
- The Centre for the Development and Evaluation of Complex Interventions for Public Health Improvement (DECIPHer), Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Rebecca French
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Christopher Bonell
- Department of Social and Environmental Health Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Julia V Bailey
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London
| | - Liam O'Hare
- Centre for Evidence and Social Innovation, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Crilly P, Jair S, Mahmood Z, Moin Khan A, Munir A, Osei-Bediako I, Samir M, Kayyali R. Public views of different sources of health advice: pharmacists, social media and mobile health applications. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2018; 27:88-95. [PMID: 29732649 DOI: 10.1111/ijpp.12448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Investigating public perceptions of community pharmacists (CP) in public health and their use of social media (SM) and mobile health applications (MH apps) in that regard. METHODS Two surveys were created. One sought public perceptions of SM and the other of MH apps for health advice. Both included a section on perceptions of the role of CPs in public health. A convenience sampling strategy, based on proximity, was used.The study population was the public (n = 8 500 000) living in Greater London. The general public were recruited face-to-face in public spaces. A minimum sample (95% confidence interval/5% margin of error) of 385 was needed. Ethical approval was obtained from the university ethics committee. Responses were analysed in SPSS. KEY FINDINGS About 820/1800 (45.6%) completed one/both surveys. Respondents seek health advice primarily from GPs, followed by digital mediums and then CPs. Under 35s use digital mediums more frequently (P = 0.039). Those who had used SM (41.7%) or MH apps (61.8%) for health information did not confirm its accuracy with a healthcare professional (HCP). Of those that did (MH apps = 39.2%; SM = 58.3%), the HCP disagreed with the information on MH apps and SM on 19.6% and 36.7% of occasions, respectively. Nevertheless, 64.5% stated that if a SM page was maintained by an HCP they would use it. CONCLUSIONS The public are using digital mediums for health advice instead of speaking to an HCP. If CPs want to have an impact on public health they must start imbedding digital mediums into their services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Crilly
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Sophia Jair
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Zahra Mahmood
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Armineh Moin Khan
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Aneesah Munir
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Irene Osei-Bediako
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Mustafa Samir
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
| | - Reem Kayyali
- School of Life Sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, UK
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Bailey JV, Webster R, Hunter R, Griffin M, Freemantle N, Rait G, Estcourt C, Michie S, Anderson J, Stephenson J, Gerressu M, Ang CS, Murray E. The Men's Safer Sex project: intervention development and feasibility randomised controlled trial of an interactive digital intervention to increase condom use in men. Health Technol Assess 2018; 20:1-124. [PMID: 27966409 DOI: 10.3310/hta20910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This report details the development of the Men's Safer Sex website and the results of a feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT), health economic assessment and qualitative evaluation. OBJECTIVES (1) Develop the Men's Safer Sex website to address barriers to condom use; (2) determine the best design for an online RCT; (3) inform the methods for collecting and analysing health economic data; (4) assess the Sexual Quality of Life (SQoL) questionnaire and European Quality of Life-5 Dimensions, three-level version (EQ-5D-3L) to calculate quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs); and (5) explore clinic staff and men's views of online research methodology. METHODS (1) Website development: we combined evidence from research literature and the views of experts (n = 18) and male clinic users (n = 43); (2) feasibility RCT: 159 heterosexually active men were recruited from three sexual health clinics and were randomised by computer to the Men's Safer Sex website plus usual care (n = 84) or usual clinic care only (n = 75). Men were invited to complete online questionnaires at 3, 6, 9 and 12 months, and sexually transmitted infection (STI) diagnoses were recorded from clinic notes at 12 months; (3) health economic evaluation: we investigated the impact of using different questionnaires to calculate utilities and QALYs (the EQ-5D-3L and SQoL questionnaire), and compared different methods to collect resource use; and (4) qualitative evaluation: thematic analysis of interviews with 11 male trial participants and nine clinic staff, as well as free-text comments from online outcome questionnaires. RESULTS (1) Software errors and clinic Wi-Fi access presented significant challenges. Response rates for online questionnaires were poor but improved with larger vouchers (from 36% with £10 to 50% with £30). Clinical records were located for 94% of participants for STI diagnoses. There were no group differences in condomless sex with female partners [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.52 to 1.96]. New STI diagnoses were recorded for 8.8% (7/80) of the intervention group and 13.0% (9/69) of the control group (IRR 0.75, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.89). (2) Health-care resource data were more complete using patient files than questionnaires. The probability that the intervention is cost-effective is sensitive to the source of data used and whether or not data on intended pregnancies are included. (3) The pilot RCT fitted well around clinical activities but 37% of the intervention group did not see the Men's Safer Sex website and technical problems were frustrating. Men's views of the Men's Safer Sex website and research procedures were largely positive. CONCLUSIONS It would be feasible to conduct a large-scale RCT using clinic STI diagnoses as a primary outcome; however, technical errors and a poor response rate limited the collection of online self-reported outcomes. The next steps are (1) to optimise software for online trials, (2) to find the best ways to integrate digital health promotion with clinical services, (3) to develop more precise methods for collecting resource use data and (4) to work out how to overcome barriers to digital intervention testing and implementation in the NHS. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN18649610. FUNDING This project was funded by the NIHR Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 20, No. 91. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia V Bailey
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rosie Webster
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Rachael Hunter
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Mark Griffin
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Nicholas Freemantle
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Greta Rait
- PRIMENT Clinical Trials Unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Claudia Estcourt
- Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Barts Sexual Health Centre, Queen Mary University of London, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jane Anderson
- Homerton Sexual Health Services, Homerton Teaching Hospitals, London, UK
| | - Judith Stephenson
- Department of Reproductive Health, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Makeda Gerressu
- Department of Infection and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chee Siang Ang
- Engineering and Digital Arts, University of Kent, Kent, UK
| | - Elizabeth Murray
- E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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Magaziner S, Montgomery MC, Bertrand T, Daltry D, Jenkins H, Kendall B, Molotnikov L, Pierce L, Smith E, Sosa L, van den Berg JJ, Marak T, Operario D, Chan PA. Public health opportunities and challenges in the provision of partner notification services: the New England experience. BMC Health Serv Res 2018; 18:75. [PMID: 29386023 PMCID: PMC5793459 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-018-2890-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Accepted: 01/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Partner notification services (PNS) are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a public health intervention for addressing the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Barriers and facilitators to the partner notification process from a public health perspective have not been well described. METHODS In 2015, a coalition of New England public health STD directors and investigators formed to address the increasing STD prevalence across the region (Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont) and to promote communication between state STD programs. To evaluate barriers and facilitators of PNS programs, a survey was administered to representatives from each state to describe PNS processes and approaches. RESULTS Of the six PNS programs, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Vermont, and New Hampshire had combined HIV and STD PNS programs; Rhode Island's programs were integrated but employed separate disease intervention specialists (DIS). All states performed PNS for HIV and syphilis. Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont performed services for all gonorrhea cases. Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts performed limited partner notification for gonorrhea due to lack of resources. None of the six states routinely provided services for chlamydia, though Maine and Vermont did so for high-priority populations such as HIV co-infected or pregnant individuals. Across all programs, clients received risk reduction counseling and general STD education as a component of PNS, in addition to referrals for HIV/STD care at locations ranging from Planned Parenthood to community- or hospital-based clinics. Notable barriers to successful partner notification across all states included anonymous partners and index cases who did not feel comfortable sharing partners' names with DIS. Other common barriers included insufficient staff, inability of DIS to identify and contact partners, and index cases declining to speak with DIS staff. CONCLUSIONS In New England, state health departments use different strategies to implement PNS programs and referral to STD care. Despite this, similar challenges exist across settings, including difficulty with anonymous partners and limited state resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Magaziner
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 222 Richmond Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Madeline C. Montgomery
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 USA
| | - Thomas Bertrand
- Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908 USA
| | - Daniel Daltry
- Vermont Department of Health, 108 Cherry Street, Burlington, VT 05402 USA
| | - Heidi Jenkins
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, 410 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06134 USA
| | - Brenda Kendall
- Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, State House Station 11, Augusta, ME 04333 USA
| | - Lauren Molotnikov
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health, 250 Washington Street, Boston, MA 02108 USA
| | - Lindsay Pierce
- New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, 29 Hazen Drive, Concord, NH 03301 USA
| | - Emer Smith
- Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention, State House Station 11, Augusta, ME 04333 USA
| | - Lynn Sosa
- Connecticut Department of Public Health, 410 Capitol Avenue, Hartford, CT 06134 USA
| | - Jacob J. van den Berg
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 222 Richmond Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
- Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Theodore Marak
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 USA
| | - Don Operario
- Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
| | - Philip A. Chan
- Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, 222 Richmond Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, The Miriam Hospital, 164 Summit Avenue, Providence, RI 02906 USA
- Rhode Island Department of Health, 3 Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908 USA
- Brown University School of Public Health, 121 South Main Street, Providence, RI 02903 USA
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Abstract
Qualitative studies are often used to research phenomena that are difficult to quantify numerically.1,2 These may include concepts, feelings, opinions, interpretations and meanings, or why people behave in a certain way. Although qualitative research is often described in opposition to quantitative research, the approaches are complementary, and many researchers use mixed methods in their projects, combining the strengths of both approaches.2 Many comprehensive texts exist on qualitative research methodology including those with a focus on healthcare related research.2-4 Here we give a brief introduction to the rationale, methods and quality assessment of qualitative research.
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Bailey JV, Tomlinson N, Hobbs LJ, Webster R. Challenges and opportunities in evaluating a digital sexual health intervention in a clinic setting: Staff and patient views. Digit Health 2017; 3:2055207617704272. [PMID: 29942593 PMCID: PMC6001223 DOI: 10.1177/2055207617704272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives The aim of the study was to gather the views of sexual health clinic staff and male clinic users regarding digital sexual health promotion and online trial procedures. Methods The Men’s Safer Sex website was offered on tablet computers to men in the waiting rooms of three sexual health clinics, in a feasibility online randomised controlled trial (RCT). Interviews were conducted with 11 men who had participated in the trial and with nine clinic staff, to explore their views of the website and views of the online trial. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed, and we conducted a thematic analysis of interviews and of 281 free text comments from the online RCT outcome questionnaires. Results Clinic users and staff felt that digital interventions such as the Men’s Safer Sex website are useful, especially if NHS endorsed. Pre-appointment waiting time presents a good opportunity for intervention but clinic users and staff felt that a website should supplement rather than replace face-to-face healthcare. The RCT procedures fitted well around clinical activities, but men did not self-direct to the tablet computers. Staff were more concerned about consent and confidentiality than clinic users, and staff and patients were frustrated by multiple technical problems. The trial outcome questionnaire was thought-provoking and could constitute an intervention in itself. Participants felt that clinics would need to promote a digital intervention and/or offer the site routinely to promote engagement. Conclusion Digital interventions could usefully supplement in-person sexual health care, but there are important obstacles in terms of IT access in NHS settings, and in promoting engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
- J V Bailey
- UCL E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - N Tomlinson
- UCL E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - L J Hobbs
- UCL E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - R Webster
- UCL E-Health unit, Research Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, London, UK
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