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Midzi N, Mutsaka-Makuvaza MJ, Charimari LS, Mangwiro P, Manengureni T, Mugadza G. A qualitative study of knowledge, beliefs and misinformation regarding COVID-19 in selected districts in Zimbabwe. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2637. [PMID: 39334096 PMCID: PMC11438260 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-20053-3] [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: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lack of appropriate knowledge, incorrect beliefs and misinformation misleads people about the risks they face and how best to protect themselves. A study was conducted to explore the knowledge, beliefs and misinformation regarding COVID-19 in Zimbabwe. METHODS A qualitative study was conducted in September-October 2022 with a purposive sample of religious leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, health workers, village health workers, teachers, traditional healers, transporters, and the general population selected from ten sites across the country. In total there were 128 participants (30 key informants and 98 focus group discussion participants). At each site, 3 key informant interviews and one homogenous focus group discussion were conducted using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion guides, respectively. The data were recorded on audiotapes, transcribed verbatim, and translated into English. Manual thematic analysis of the data was performed. FINDINGS Three themes were identified in this study: (1) beliefs about COVID-19, (2) knowledge about COVID-19 (knowledge of origin, definition, transmission, signs and symptoms and recommended preventive measures), and (3) misinformation about COVID-19 (regarding its nature, existence and recommended preventive measures). There was awareness of the origin, transmission, signs and symptoms of COVID-19 among the participants. Participants reported that Zimbabwean communities were conversant with public health measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, and maintaining hand hygiene. However, misinformation was also observed to have circulated among the communities. CONCLUSION Participants demonstrated good knowledge of COVID-19. However, the misinformation circulating in the country calls for the government to establish structures to monitor the legitimacy of information coming through different sources and invest in providing information through trusted sources. In any disease outbreak, the government should engage its citizenry to understand their knowledge, beliefs and any misinformation that might influence adherence to disease preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Midzi
- National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Masceline Jenipher Mutsaka-Makuvaza
- National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe.
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Butare, Rwanda.
| | | | | | - Tonderai Manengureni
- National Institute of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Child Care, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Gladys Mugadza
- College of Health Sciences, University of Zimbabwe, Harare, Zimbabwe
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Wright CG, Bowling J, Platt J, Carpino T, Low A, Mantell J, Hoos D, Castor D, El-Sadr W, Greenleaf AR. COVID-19 Knowledge Among Sexual and Gender Minority Adults in New York City. LGBT Health 2024. [PMID: 39288085 DOI: 10.1089/lgbt.2023.0277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This study describes sources of COVID-19 vaccine information and COVID-19 knowledge among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults in New York City (NYC). Methods: A sample of 986 SGM adults in NYC completed an online survey between June 25 and December 1, 2021. Participants indicated their top three sources of COVID-19 vaccine information from a list of 10 options. Participants were also categorized into low or high COVID-19 knowledge using a 14-item questionnaire. We described knowledge sources, then conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression to identify characteristics associated with greater knowledge. Results: The mean age of participants was 29 years (range 18-68 years). Only 12.5% identified their health care provider as a main COVID-19 vaccine information source. Social media (54.9%) and TV news channels (51.4%) were most reported as a main COVID-19 vaccine information source. COVID-19 vaccine knowledge was moderate, with four of eight questions showing correct responses in approximately 70% or more participants. In the multivariable logistic regression model, having at least some college education (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.55-3.52), attaining a master's degree (aOR: 3.28, 95% CI: 1.93-5.57), reporting a household income of $25,000-$49,999 per year (aOR: 1.68, 95% CI: 1.14-2.46), and having health insurance (aOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.51-2.96) were significantly associated with high COVID-19 knowledge. Conclusion: Our sample demonstrated high levels of COVID-19 knowledge, particularly among educated individuals and those with health insurance. Primary access to health information was through social media and TV news channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor G Wright
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Jessamyn Bowling
- Department of Public Health Sciences, College of Health and Human Services, University of North Carolina - Charlotte, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA
| | - Joey Platt
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Tom Carpino
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrea Low
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Joanne Mantell
- New York State Psychiatric Institute and Department of Psychiatry, HIV Center for Clinical and Behavioral Studies, Gender, Sexuality and Health Area, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - David Hoos
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Delivette Castor
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Wafaa El-Sadr
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Abigail R Greenleaf
- ICAP at Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
- Heilbrunn Department of Population and Family Health, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
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Liou D. COVID-19 prevention behaviors and dietary habits among undergraduate students: A health belief model approach. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309623. [PMID: 39208156 PMCID: PMC11361559 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Physical and social disruptions resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic, affecting young adults in higher education. The purpose of this survey research is to unveil COVID-19 related beliefs using the Health Belief Model, and COVID-19 prevention behaviors, including self-reported fruit and vegetable consumption among university students. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 304 male and female undergraduate students from diverse ethnic backgrounds and majors at a New Jersey state university using convenience sampling. Variables measured included frequency of COVID-19 prevention behaviors (e.g.: wearing indoor mask, handwashing), and consumption of fruit and vegetables (dark green and orange vegetables) over the previous week. Health Belief Model constructs were assessed namely perceived susceptibility to COVID-19, severity, benefits, barriers, and self-efficacy. Statistical distributions were computed for the entire sample and t-tests were investigated for subgroups of age and sex. The sample mean age was 21.7 (SD = 4.7) years with 222 females (73%) and 82 males (27%), and 46% identified as White, non-Hispanics. Participants consumed a mean of 0.95 cups of fruit, 0.81 cups of green vegetables, and 0.46 cups of orange vegetables. Female students practiced more COVID-19 prevention behaviors with a mean difference of 0.26 (p<0.001), perceived greater severity from the virus (Δ = 0.37, p = 0.002) and had stronger perceptions of benefits (Δ = 0.18, p = 0.041), barriers (Δ = 0.21, p = 0.046), and self-efficacy (Δ = 0.20, p = 0.020) than their male counterparts. Older students (aged 23 and above) adopted more COVID-19 prevention behaviors (Δ = -0.35, p = 0.001) and perceived less barriers (Δ = 0.24, p = 0.047) than their younger peers. Nutrition educators and health professionals need to emphasize the importance of adopting preventive health behaviors among university students as strategies to mitigate the severity of COVID-19. Addressing barriers younger male and female students may elevate their motivation and self-efficacy to enact health behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doreen Liou
- Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey, United States of America
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Shank F, Korovich M, Nicoletti A, Angelone DJ, Jones MC. The Influence of Health-Related Behavior Profiles on College Students' Perceptions of COVID-19 Safety Measures. J Community Health 2024; 49:1-9. [PMID: 38413406 PMCID: PMC11306267 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-024-01342-9] [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] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
College students often engage in multiple health-related behaviors simultaneously which can lead to negative outcomes and further risky behaviors. During the COVID-19 pandemic, college students reported decreased condom use, increased solitary cannabis use, and increased alcohol consumption. This current study aimed to (1) identify profiles of health-related behaviors (i.e., alcohol consumption, cannabis use, and sexual behaviors), and (2) determine if these profiles would differ in engagement and perceived effectiveness of COVID-19 preventative measures. Participants were 273 college students from a large Northeastern U.S. public university who completed surveys about health-related behaviors during the 2021 academic year. We used a latent profile analysis to identify distinct subgroups of college students based on their engagement in health-related behaviors. Based on fit indices a three-profile solution showed the best fit: low (N = 196), moderate (N = 54), and high (N = 23). Two one-way ANOVAs examined whether profile membership predicted engagement and perceived effectiveness of COVID-19 safety measures. Participants in the low health-related behaviors profile engaged in preventative measures more than students in the other two profiles. However, profile membership did not predict perceived effectiveness of preventative behaviors. Taken together, our results indicate that college students reporting lower levels of health-related behaviors engage in more preventative measures during a pandemic. Understanding distinct health-related behaviors profiles among college students, and their links with COVID-preventative health-related behaviors, can inform prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faith Shank
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA.
| | - Megan Korovich
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA
| | - Alexandra Nicoletti
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA
| | - D J Angelone
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA
| | - Meredith C Jones
- Department of Psychology, Rowan University, 201 Mullica Hill Rd, Glassboro, NJ, 08028, USA
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Samila IA, Mboineki JF. Knowledge level and constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to the practice of unsafe abortion among postnatal mothers attending Mkonze health center, Dodoma Region, Tanzania. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1427. [PMID: 38807110 PMCID: PMC11134745 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18921-z] [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: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unsafe abortion is now a global agenda because 45% of all global abortions are unsafe, and 97% are occurring in developing countries. In Tanzania, one million reproductive-aged women face unplanned pregnancies per year, and 39% end up with abortion. About 16% of maternal deaths are reported per year in Tanzania, and unsafe abortion takes the second position. There are several efforts to prevent and intervene unsafe abortions, such as equipping healthcare facilities across all levels of healthcare, approval of Misoprostol use, establishment of comprehensive post-abortion care (PAC), revising policy guidelines and standards, provision of emergency contraceptives, and capacity building of healthcare providers. There is little documentation about how the constructs of the theory of planned behaviour, knowledge, and sociodemographics influence the practice of abortion. OBJECTIVES To assess the association of knowledge level, sociodemographic characteristics, and constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to the practice of unsafe abortion among postnatal mothers at Mkonze Health Center in the Dodoma region. METHODOLOGY It is an analytical cross-sectional study design conducted in Dodoma-Tanzania and involved 206 postnatal women. A validated questionnaire was used and analysis was performed in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), through descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS The practice of unsafe abortion in the current study is 28/206 (13.6%), influenced bytheir lower educational level and being single women. It was found that the majority had adequate knowledge of unsafe abortion 129 (62.6%), positive attitude 130 (63.1%), good subjective norms 113 (54.9%), and positive perceived behavioral control111 (53.9%). Knowledge, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control were not significantly associated with the practice of unsafe abortion. CONCLUSION The majority of the respondents had high knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control on unsafe abortion. This is an indicator that the implemented initiatives are effective. Maintaining the ongoing effort and improving strategies are promising to mitigate the burden of unsafe abortion. Future research needs to find out hidden factors associated with attitude and how health beliefs might influence someone's attitude towards unsafe abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immaculata Alphonce Samila
- Department of Nursing Management and Education, School of Nursing and Public Health, The University of Dodoma, P. O. Box 259, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Joanes Faustine Mboineki
- Department of Nursing Management and Education, School of Nursing and Public Health, The University of Dodoma, P. O. Box 259, Dodoma, Tanzania.
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DeBeck DP, Scudder JN. An Integrated Health Belief Model: Predicting Uptake of the First COVID-19 Booster Vaccine. HEALTH COMMUNICATION 2024; 39:1102-1112. [PMID: 37128817 DOI: 10.1080/10410236.2023.2204583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Public health campaigns have turned to the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a guiding framework for the past six decades. Carpenter's 2010 HBM meta-analysis revealed important shortcomings as well as a path forward that has largely been ignored by recent COVID-19 research using this framework. Consistent with Carpenter's recommendations, this study on the uptake of the first COVID-19 booster vaccine focused on the overlooked interactional processes of the original HBM founders. Our study used SEM and Hayes's PROCESS 4.1 to explore the possibilities of the interdependent nature of the core three beliefs to form a model that is integrated. The study indicated that the core variables of the original HBM were significant predictors of the intent to take the first COVID-19 booster vaccine when considered in an interactional process framework. Our study results have implications for those designing public health advocacy campaigns regarding COVID-19 as it enters an endemic stage with future vaccines and medications.
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Babikir IH, Alamri AM, Alraddadi AA, Alhajuj MN, Alnakhle MM, Alhajuj HA, Alfahal MS, Elmuttalut M. Bridging the Gaps: The Transformative Effect of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) on Preventive Measures Among Medical and Health Sciences College Students in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2024; 16:e55131. [PMID: 38558720 PMCID: PMC10979714 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.55131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The global impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has disrupted the activities of medical and health profession education institutions. This study aimed to determine the impact of COVID-19 on medical and health profession education students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward preventive measures and their commitment to precautionary measures before, during, and after the pandemic. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was carried out from January to March 2023 using an online, structured, validated questionnaire survey to gather information from medical and health sciences students from three universities, encompassing five colleges in Madinah, Saudi Arabia. The minimum required sample size was estimated using the Epi Info software as 380. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 20.0 (Released 2011; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). Statistical tests including Student's t-test, chi-squared test, and analysis of variance (ANOVA) test were applied. Results The findings revealed that personal experiences with COVID-19 infection had a significant impact on students' attitudes and commitment to preventive measures (p<0.05). Among the participants, 172 students (45%) reported having contracted COVID-19. Students with clinical exposure showed a higher level of understanding and adherence to preventive measures (248 students, 68%), compared to pre-clinical students (198 students, 52%) (p<0.05). Positive attitudes were observed toward practices such as sneezing etiquette (289 students, 76%) and flu vaccination (314 students, 83%) (p<0.05). However, negative attitudes were observed toward mask-wearing (155 students, 41%) and social distancing (144 students, 38%), particularly among male students (p<0.05). Conclusion The study provided valuable insights into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical and health sciences students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward preventive measures and the importance of introducing COVID-19 prevention measures in the pre-clinical phase as well as mental health support to promote positive attitudes and enhance adherence to preventive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim H Babikir
- Department of Microbiology, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Madinah, SAU
- Department of Microbiology, College of Laboratory Medicine, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, SDN
| | | | | | - Mohesn N Alhajuj
- Medical School, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Madinah, SAU
| | | | - Hassan A Alhajuj
- Medical School, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Madinah, SAU
| | - Mohammed S Alfahal
- Department of Psychiatry, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Madinah, SAU
| | - Mohammed Elmuttalut
- Department of Community Medicine, Al-Rayan National College of Medicine, Madinah, SAU
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Ibrahim AM, Zaghamir DF. Knowledge and attitudes towards mpox and effect of intervention among College of Applied Medical Sciences students. Libyan J Med 2023; 18:2222448. [PMID: 37300843 DOI: 10.1080/19932820.2023.2222448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This research aims to assess the base level of knowledge and attitude of Applied Medical Sciences Students regarding mpox and whether an educational intervention could improve their knowledge and attitude. Methods: A quasi-experimental research was used, involving 960 medical students from Applied Medical Sciences College at Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, KSA. They were recruited from the beginning of November 2022 till the mid of January 2023 based on the non-randomized sampling method. A standardized, anonymous, and closed-ended questionnaire was used, compromising three main sections: participants' demographics, knowledge, and attitudes toward the mpox epidemic. Results: Total knowledge scores of the studied sample in the pretest phase were 45.43 ± 6.29 compared to 65.03 ± 2.93 in the post-test phase. Besides, total attitude scores were 48.62 ± 4.78 before program implementation, while after conducting the program reached 70.65 ± 5.13. There was a notable improvement in the total knowledge score of the sample studied after the intervention was implemented, particularly for neurological manifestations. Conclusion: After the program's implementation, there was an obvious improvement in the medical students' total knowledge and attitude scores concerning the mpox epidemic. It is necessary to initiate well-organized training initiatives for all other medical faculties, paramedics, and applied health institutions in Saudi Arabia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ateya Megahed Ibrahim
- Nursing, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Alkarj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Family and Community Health Nursing department, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
| | - Donia Fathi Zaghamir
- Nursing, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Alkarj, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
- Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University, Port Said, Egypt
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Montazeri M, Shabani F, Rezaie R, Mirghafourvand M. Relationship between health practices with attitudes towards pregnancy and motherhood and pregnancy symptoms in Iranian pregnant women: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e074048. [PMID: 37751951 PMCID: PMC10533709 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-074048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Pregnancy is a vulnerable period for women's health, and health practices play an essential role in this period. This study aimed to determine the relationship between health practices with attitudes toward pregnancy and motherhood and pregnancy symptoms. DESIGN It was a cross-sectional study using cluster sampling conducted on 351 pregnant women in 2021-2022. Data were collected using questionnaires of socio-demographic characteristics, health practices in pregnancy (Health Practices Questionnaire-II), attitude towards motherhood and pregnancy (Prenatal Attitudes Towards motherhood and Pregnancy) and pregnancy symptoms (Pregnancy Symptoms Inventory). The general linear model (GLM), with the adjustment of socio-demographic characteristics, was used to determine the relationship of the health practices with attitudes towards motherhood and pregnancy and pregnancy symptoms. SETTING Health centres in Tabriz city, Iran. PARTICIPANTS Women were eligible if living in the Tabriz city, Iran, were pregnant and had a personal health record at the health centre. RESULTS The mean (SD) of the total health practices score was 117.9 (20.5) out of 34-170. The mean (SD) of the attitudes towards motherhood and pregnancy was 33.4 (4.5) out of 11-44. The mean (SD) of the pregnancy symptoms was 28.0 (12.1) out of 0-123. According to the Pearson correlation test, there was a significant direct correlation between health practices with attitudes towards motherhood and pregnancy (r=0.39; p<0.001) and a significant inverse correlation with pregnancy symptoms (r=-0.29; p<0.001). Based on the GLM with an increase in the score of health practices, the mean score of the attitude towards motherhood and pregnancy increased (B=0.07; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.1), and the mean score of pregnancy symptoms decreased (B=-0.1; 95% CI: -0.2 to -0.05). CONCLUSION Considering the relationship between health practices with the attitude towards motherhood and pregnancy symptoms, healthcare providers better use educational and counselling strategies to promote health practices in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fatemeh Shabani
- Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ronya Rezaie
- Midwifery, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mojgan Mirghafourvand
- Social determinants of Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Kordi-Kalaki F, Dehdari T, Abolghasemi J. Determinants of COVID-19 preventive health behaviors in Iranian adults based on extended parallel process model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14416. [PMID: 37660189 PMCID: PMC10475026 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-41643-y] [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: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Performing preventive behaviors by individuals has been recognized as one of the important strategies for the prevention and control of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aimed to assess the determinants of adopting preventive behaviors of COVID-19 in a sample of Iranian adults based on Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM) variables. In this cross-sectional study, 300 adults from Tehran, Iran were selected using cluster sampling method from five areas of the city: north, south, west, east, and center. The participants completed a study instrument developed to assess demographic information and EPPM variables. Finally, the data were analyzed using SPSS software. The mean age of the participants was 40.11 (± 15.158) years. The results showed that 88.3% (n = 265) of the participants were in the process of danger control. Perceived self-efficacy, attitude, response efficiency, behavioral intention, and the number of hours of activity outside home were determinants of performing COVID-19 preventive behaviors among the participants. These predictors might be used to develop theory-based educational efforts based on EPPM variables due to encouraging people to adopt COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Our results suggest that because many participants were engaged in danger control, health professionals should focus on increasing perceived efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kordi-Kalaki
- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Tahereh Dehdari
- Health Promotion Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Hemmat Highway, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Jamileh Abolghasemi
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Ghavamabadi LI, Shabab M, Dehaghi BF, Hoveizi F. Compliance with health protocols in the banking sector facing Covid-19. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1129578. [PMID: 37441640 PMCID: PMC10333689 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1129578] [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: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The spread of the coronavirus has become one of the current challenges in the world. Implementing health protocols in the workplace along with informing people who face them, has become a vital issue. Objective The purpose of this study was to determine the level of compliance with health protocols and measure the level of awareness, attitude and performance of bank employees while facing Covid-19. Materials and methods The data collection tool included a checklist and two questionnaires (demographic information and the other on the awareness, attitude and performance of bank staff) regarding the coronavirus. Results A total of 199 bank employees from 25 bank branches participated in the study. The results showed that in 24% of the bank branches, the staff did not use face masks. And 100% of the studied bank branches lacked proper ventilation. The mean awareness scores of female employees (94.3) were significantly higher than those of male employees (87.7). Also, the performance of female employees (93.2) was significantly better than male employees (87.2). Conclusion The results showed that to achieve proper performance in controlling and reducing the covid-19 disease among bank employees and other workers, these items are noteworthy: (1) Providing and training the correct use of protective equipment including face masks. (2) Monitoring for strict implementation of health protocols. Therefore, it is necessary to keep training and information up-to-date due to the new phenomena of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitra Shabab
- Environmental Technologies Research Center, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Behzad Fouladi Dehaghi
- Environmental Technologies Research Center, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Occupational Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Farkhondeh Hoveizi
- Environmental Technologies Research Center, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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Malaeb D, Sallam M, Salim NA, Dabbous M, Younes S, Nasrallah Y, Iskandar K, Matta M, Obeid S, Hallit S, Hallit R. Knowledge, Attitude and Conspiracy Beliefs of Healthcare Workers in Lebanon towards Monkeypox. Trop Med Infect Dis 2023; 8:81. [PMID: 36828497 PMCID: PMC9965137 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed8020081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The emergence of a monkeypox (MPOX) outbreak in 2022 represented the most recent recognizable public health emergency at a global level. Improving knowledge and attitude towards MPOX, particularly among healthcare workers (HCWs), can be a valuable approach in public health preventive efforts aiming to halt MPOX virus spread. The aim of the current study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of HCWs in Lebanon towards MPOX and to assess their conspiratorial attitude towards emerging virus infections (EVIs). The current study was based on a cross-sectional online survey distributed via Google Forms during September-December 2022 implementing a convenience sampling approach. The final study sample comprised a total of 646 HCWs: physicians (n = 171, 26.5%), pharmacists (n = 283, 43.8%), and nurses (n = 168, 26.0%), among others (n = 24, 3.7%). Variable defects in MPOX knowledge were detected, with a third of the participants having MPOX knowledge above the 75th percentile (n = 218, 33.7%). Satisfactory attitude towards MPOX (>75th percentile) was observed in less than a third of the participants (n = 198, 30.7%), while a quarter of the study sample endorsed conspiracy beliefs towards EVIs at a high level (>75th percentile, n = 164, 25.4%). Slightly more than two thirds of the participants agreed that MPOX vaccination should be used in disease prevention (n = 440, 68.1%). Better levels of MPOX knowledge and attitude were significantly associated with postgraduate education and older age. Physicians had significantly higher MPOX knowledge compared to other occupational categories. Less endorsement of conspiracies towards EVIs was significantly associated with male sex, occupation as a physician, and postgraduate education. Higher MPOX knowledge was associated with better attitude towards the disease. The current study showed unsatisfactory MPOX knowledge among Lebanese HCWs. Educational efforts can be valuable to improve the attitude towards the disease. Despite the relatively low level of embracing conspiracy beliefs regarding EVIs among HCWs in this study compared to previous studies, this area should be considered based on its potential impact on health-seeking behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Malaeb
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman P.O. Box 4184, United Arab Emirates
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
| | - Malik Sallam
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Clinical Laboratories and Forensic Medicine, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Department of Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Lund University, 22184 Malmö, Sweden
| | - Nesreen A. Salim
- Prosthodontic Department, School of Dentistry, The University of Jordan, Amman 11942, Jordan
- Prosthodontic Department, Jordan University Hospital, Amman 11942, Jordan
| | - Mariam Dabbous
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
- School of Education, Lebanese International University, Beirut P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
| | - Samar Younes
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
| | - Yves Nasrallah
- School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Katia Iskandar
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Department, School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Bekaa P.O. Box 146404, Lebanon
- INSPECT-LB—National Institute of Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology and Toxicology-Lebanon, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Matta Matta
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Center Hospitalier de Melun, 77000 Melun, France
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Byblos, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman 11931, Jordan
- Research Department, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib P.O. Box 60096, Lebanon
| | - Rabih Hallit
- School of Medicine & Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Beirut, Lebanon
- Department of Infectious Disease, Bellevue Medical Center, Mansourieh, Lebanon
- Department of Infectious Disease, Notre Dame des Secours, University Hospital Center, Byblos, Lebanon
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Huang HT, Tsai CH, Wang CF, Chien TC, Chang SH. Exploration of COVID-19 Pandemic Prevention Behaviors among Healthcare Workers. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:153. [PMID: 36673522 PMCID: PMC9859533 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11020153] [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: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the pandemic has become an important topic of global public health. To reduce the rapid spread of the pandemic, compliance with preventive behaviors has become one of the important guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO). Healthcare workers stand on the frontline for pandemic prevention, and preventive behaviors are essential measures to protect their health and safety. The purpose of this study was to propose an integrative model that explained and predicted COVID-19 preventive behaviors among healthcare workers. The study integrated workplace safety climate and the health belief model (HBM) to verify the impact of workplace safety climate and health belief factors on the safety attitude, safety compliance, and safety satisfaction of healthcare workers performing COVID-19 pandemic prevention behaviors. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2021 with a self-administered online questionnaire. The sample of the study was drawn from healthcare workers of a famous medical institution in Taipei City as research subjects. After collecting 273 valid questionnaires and verifying them through the analysis of structural equation modeling (SEM), the findings revealed that workplace safety climate had an impact on health belief factors, and then health belief factors had impacts on safety attitudes. In addition, safety attitude affected safety compliance, while safety compliance further affected safety satisfaction. The study showed that workplace safety climate can strengthen healthcare workers' health beliefs and further affect their safety attitudes, safety compliance, and safety satisfaction. The study attempted to propose a model of healthcare workers' pandemic prevention behaviors as a reference for medical facility administrators in real practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chung-Hung Tsai
- Department of Information Technology and Management, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 970302, Taiwan
| | | | - Tzu-Chao Chien
- Department of Information Technology and Management, Tzu Chi University of Science and Technology, Hualien 970302, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Hao Chang
- Science & Technology Policy Research and Information Center, National Applied Research Laboratories, Taipei 10636, Taiwan
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Anagaw TF, Tiruneh MG, Fenta ET. Application of behavioral change theory and models on COVID-19 preventive behaviors, worldwide: A systematic review. SAGE Open Med 2023; 11:20503121231159750. [PMID: 37026109 PMCID: PMC10067469 DOI: 10.1177/20503121231159750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: This systematic review aimed to assess the global application of behavioral change theory and models on COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Methods: This systematic review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses procedure. Databases such as PubMed/MIDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMB ASE, World Health Organization libraries, and Google Scholar were used to search all published articles in the area of application of behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behavior until October 1, 2022. Studies published in another language other than English were excluded. Two independent reviewers did the article selection and quality check. A third reviewer asked if any disagreement were found. Result: Seventeen thousand four hundred thirty-six total articles were retrieved from all sources after the removal of duplicated articles and those not evaluating the outcome of interest were excluded. Finally, 82 articles done using behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behaviors were included. The health belief model (HBM) and theory of planned behavior (TPB) were most commonly used in COVID-19 preventive behaviors. The constructs of most behavioral theories and models were significantly associated with COVID-19 preventive behaviors such as hand washing, face mask use, vaccine uptake, social isolation, self-quarantine, social distance, and use of sanitizers. Conclusion: This systematic review summarizes comprehensive evidence on the application of behavioral change theory and model on COVID-19 preventive behaviors globally. A total of seven behavioral change theories and models were included. The HBM and TPBs were most commonly used for COVID-19 preventive behaviors. Therefore, the application of behavioral change theory and models is recommended for developing behavioral change interventional strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tadele Fentabil Anagaw
- Department of Health Promotion and Behavioural Science, School of Public health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Misganaw Guadie Tiruneh
- Department of Public health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Eneyew Talie Fenta
- Department of Public health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Injibara University, Injibara, Ethiopia
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15
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Murphy A, Ollerenshaw A. A community‐wide approach to reducing risky drinking cultures in young people in rural Australia. Aust J Rural Health 2022; 31:204-217. [PMID: 36281926 DOI: 10.1111/ajr.12936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study evaluated the impact of a multi-faceted, harm minimisation program addressing youth alcohol change and risky drinking behaviours in rural Australia. The role and influence of a multi-tiered community approach to changing alcohol cultures is examined. SETTING An alcohol culture change project for young people (12-18 years) was implemented in rural Victoria. It was informed by the Alcohol Cultures Framework, comprising community-wide events and youth-focused activities, co-designed with young people. The approach aimed at maximising engagement and reducing alcohol-related harm by targeting the shared activities and drinking practices of young people, parents and the community. PARTICIPANTS Participants (n = 446) provided feedback specific to three key program activities for promoting alcohol change. DESIGN Mixed methods: Feedback sheets were collected, and interviews and focus groups were conducted with program participants. RESULTS Participants indicated that the program had informed their understanding of the way people in their region drink, and the social norms and practices around alcohol that encourage risky drinking. It influenced their short- and medium-term reactions, learnings and activities relating to alcohol consumption. The impact of the program was greatest in adults than young people although reflective learning and some behaviour change were evident across all age groups and community clusters. CONCLUSION Community-wide health promotion events offer participants a deeper understanding of the ways in which dominant alcohol cultures inform the practices and activities of young people within a broader community context. Ensuring health promotion programs within a whole-of-community approach are established longer term, is recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Murphy
- Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation Federation University Ballarat Victoria Australia
| | - Alison Ollerenshaw
- Centre for eResearch and Digital Innovation Federation University Ballarat Victoria Australia
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Prevalence and Associated Factors of Physical Activity among Medical Students from the Western Balkans. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19137691. [PMID: 35805346 PMCID: PMC9265687 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19137691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Revised: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The student population includes young adults who need nutrition and regular physical activity (PA) for mental, cognitive, and physical development. It is estimated that, globally, only 25–40% of the university student population is involved in regular PA. To date, no research has been conducted in the Western Balkans to address the PA of medical students. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and factors influencing PA among medical students from the Western Balkans. A cross-sectional study included 2452 students from 14 medical faculties in five countries (Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia and Serbia). There were significantly more students who engaged than those who did not engage in some type of regular (daily) PA. Gender, overweight or obesity, and household income are significantly associated with students’ PA. Students who are more often involved in regular daily PA and have higher daily PA levels are more likely to be males whose household income is above average. In order to improve the health of the student population, the public health authorities need to continuously investigate the PA of students and introduce appropriate activities to increase their level of PA.
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Moyo N, Bhappu AD, Bhebhe M, Ncube F. Perceived Risk of COVID-19 and Employee Decision-Making: How Psychological Distress during the Pandemic Increases Negative Performance Outcomes among Healthcare Workers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:6762. [PMID: 35682345 PMCID: PMC9180025 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19116762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
In this research, we examined how COVID-19 impacts employee decision-making and performance, knowing that this virus has negatively affected public health, crippled economies, and transformed social and business environments across the globe. To quantitatively test our specific hypotheses regarding the effects of employees’ perceived risk of COVID-19 and psychological distress on negative performance outcomes, we surveyed 443 healthcare workers who were employed by a group of private hospitals in Zimbabwe. These essential workers were delivering day-to-day frontline services with high exposure to COVID-19 during the pandemic. We find that employees’ perceived risk of COVID-19 increases their disengagement, turnover intention, burnout, and low morale at a p < 0.05 significance level. These latter relationships are mediated by employees’ psychological distress at a p < 0.05 significance level. Our findings shed light on how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the cognitions and behaviors of the frontline workers who are vulnerable to this contagious disease. Turnover intentions are amplified among healthcare employees, due to their perceived risk of COVID-19 and the resulting psychological distress. Similarly, burnout becomes predominant as these workers worry about contracting the coronavirus due to the poor working conditions they face. As such, our research confirms that the pandemic has intensified the precariousness of work and challenge of managing employee performance, especially for frontline healthcare workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ngqabutho Moyo
- Department of Management of Complex Systems, School of Engineering, University of California, 5200 North Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343, USA;
| | - Anita D. Bhappu
- Department of Management of Complex Systems, School of Engineering, University of California, 5200 North Lake Rd., Merced, CA 95343, USA;
| | - Moment Bhebhe
- Department of Human Resource Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, Midlands State University, Gweru P. Bag 9055, Zimbabwe; (M.B.); (F.N.)
| | - Farai Ncube
- Department of Human Resource Management, Faculty of Social Sciences, Midlands State University, Gweru P. Bag 9055, Zimbabwe; (M.B.); (F.N.)
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