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Hosseini J, Shojaeefar E, Pooladgar P, Aliakbari F, Ganji M, Hamdieh M, Kheradmand A, Fashami MA. Prevalence of substance use among Iranian male adolescents: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Health Sci Rep 2022; 5:e885. [PMID: 36304760 PMCID: PMC9595342 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Substance use among adolescents is one of the most challenging behavioral disorders with direct consequences. It is of the essence (that) the prevalence of substance use is investigated among Iranian male adolescents. METHODS The present study is a systematic review and meta-analysis. All published articles titled "prevalence of substance use among Iranian adolescents" authored in Persian and English from 2004 to 2020 on Pub Med, Scopus, SID, and Google Scholar, a top list of academic research databases, were reviewed. Thirty-three out of 805 articles, hinge on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, were eligible. Statistical analysis carried out in STATA 14.0.Q index, I2 index, and χ 2 test were applied. RESULTS Overall prevalence reported with (95% confidence interval) for substance use 7% (4%-11%), methamphetamine 4% (3%-6%), tobacco 10% (3%-19%), and any addictive substances 4% (2%-7%) among male adolescents respectively. Besides, overall prevalence of alcohol consumption reported 10% (8%-11%). CONCLUSION The prevalence of substance use among male adolescents is high, so it is indispensable for researchers to pay special attention to this issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jalil Hosseini
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Ehsan Shojaeefar
- Immunology Board for Transplantation and Advanced Cellular Therapeutics (ImmunoTACT)Universal Scientific and Education Network (USERN)TehranIran
| | - Parham Pooladgar
- School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical ScienceTehranIran
| | - Fereshteh Aliakbari
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Maryam Ganji
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mostafa Hamdieh
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research CenterShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Ali Kheradmand
- Department of Psychiatry, Taleghani Hospital Research Development Committee, School of MedicineShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Mahta Abbasi Fashami
- School of Nursing and MidwiferyShahid Beheshti University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
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Assari S. Association Between Parental Educational Attainment and Children's Negative Urgency: Sex Differences. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH 2021; 8:14-22. [PMID: 34604532 DOI: 10.34172/ijer.2021.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Negative urgency reflects a specific facet of impulsivity and correlates with a wide range of health-related risk behaviors, including, but not limited to, problematic substance use. Negative urgency is also shaped by family socioeconomic position (SEP), such as parental educational attainment (PEA). This study aimed to explore sex differences regarding protective effects of PEA on children's negative urgency in the US. Methods This cross-sectional study used the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study data. Baseline ABCD data included 10,535 American children in the age range of 9-10 years old. The independent variable was PEA, treated as a 5-level categorical variable. The primary outcome was negative urgency measured by the Urgency, Premeditation, Perseverance, Sensation Seeking, Positive Urgency, Impulsive Behavior Scale (UPPS-SS). Mixed-effects regression models were applied for data analysis. Results In sex-stratified regression models, high PEA was predictive of lower levels of negative urgency in female but not male children. In the overall sample, sex showed a statistically significant interaction with PEA on children's negative urgency, indicating a stronger protective effect of high PEA for female compared to male children. Conclusion PEA was a more salient determinant of negative urgency in female children than male ones. Our results also showed that American boys tend to have high levels of negative urgency, which is a risk factor of drug use, at all parental education levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Family Medicine, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, USA.,Department of Urban Public Health, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Ghahremani L, Eskandari E, Nazari M, Karimi M, Khalan YA. Developing strategies to improve the community readiness level to prevent drug abuse in adolescents: Based on the community readiness model, Eghlid City, Iran, 2019. JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 49:1568-1578. [PMID: 34076283 DOI: 10.1002/jcop.22629] [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: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the level of readiness of Eghlid city community for adolescents' substance abuse prevention programs, and to develop strategies to improve community readiness levels based on the community readiness model (CRM). In this two-stage qualitative study, a 36-item semi-structured CRM questionnaire, was used to interview 11 key informants in Eghlid city, Iran, 2019. The interviews were analyzed and scored by two independent researchers. Strategies for increasing the level of readiness were developed and prioritized by participants using the nominal group method. The readiness levels to prevent substance abuse in community efforts and leadership dimensions were at stabilization and preparation stage. In terms of community awareness of efforts, community space, and public awareness of the issue, the readiness level was at the pre-planning stage, and in the resources for prevention efforts dimension, it was at the vague awareness level. In the strategy development section, the key participants focused on using traditional methods such as holding face-to-face training programs and festivals, using IRIB platform, local media, and lectures. The general level of readiness is at a moderate level. It seems necessary to focus on resources and areas related to public information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Ghahremani
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Esmaeil Eskandari
- Department of M.P.H, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mahin Nazari
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Masoud Karimi
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Yousef A Khalan
- Department of Health Promotion, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Zarafshan H, Wissow LS, Shahrivar Z, Mojtabai R, Khademi M, JafariNia M, Hajebi A, Abolhassani F, Sharifi V. Children and adolescents' mental health in Iran's primary care: Perspectives of general practitioners, school staff and help seekers. GLOBAL SOCIAL WELFARE : RESEARCH, POLICY & PRACTICE 2021; 8:1-10. [PMID: 33738179 PMCID: PMC7962553 DOI: 10.1007/s40609-019-00144-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Iran has well-established networks for primary care staffed by general practitioners who provide services to patients across the lifespan. Iran recently established collaborative care networks to build general practitioners' capacity to provide adult mental health services. In an NIH-funded study, we are designing and evaluating a training program for general practitioners (GPs) to extend this collaboration to include services for children and adolescents. In the formative phase of this project, we conducted a qualitative study to obtain information relevant to the design of the training program. METHODS We conducted semi-structured individual interviews with 28 stakeholders; including 15 GPs working in a collaborative care network, 6 parents and 4 adolescents who had received child mental health care from a GP, and 3 policymakers. We also held a focus group discussion with 8 school teachers and counselors. All interviews were transcribed during the interviews' sessions and then were thematically analyzed. RESULTS GPs reported seeing a range of child emotional and behavioral problems but felt the need for additional training in diagnosis and management, especially in skills for interviewing and communicating with children. GPs also expressed the need to understand legal issues involved in treating children, including cases of possible child abuse. School staff agreed that GPs could help with children's educational and emotional problems but also believed GPs would need extra training. Parents indicated a preference for GPs over psychiatrists (as did adolescents) as a source of mental health care, and for psychological over pharmacological interventions. Adolescents expressed a preference not to speak about private issues in the presence of their parents, and expressed concern that the GPs did not respect their preference. They also desired a more active role during visits. CONCLUSIONS Before expanding the scope of practice of Iranian GPs to provide management of common emotional and behavioral problems in children and adolescents, the concerns and specific needs of these practitioners need to be addressed. Parents and youth in the study expressed a preference for mental health care from a GP rather than a specialist. However, they also commented on the need for restructuring the current GP visits to facilitate youth participation. These findings provide directions for expanding the scope of practice of adult collaborative care networks to meet the mental health care needs of children and adolescents more expeditiously and effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadi Zarafshan
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Lawrence S Wissow
- Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Zahra Shahrivar
- Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ramin Mojtabai
- Department of Mental Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD., USA
| | - Mojgan Khademi
- Department of Psychiatry, Imam Hossein Hospital, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza JafariNia
- Shahid-Emami Community Mental Health Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Hajebi
- Research Center for Addiction & Risky Behaviors (ReCARB) and Department of Psychiatry, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farid Abolhassani
- National institute of Health Research, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vandad Sharifi
- Department of Psychiatry, Roozbeh Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Sex Differences in the Association between Household Income and Children's Executive Function. SEXES 2020; 1:19-31. [PMID: 33163684 DOI: 10.3390/sexes1010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to investigate sex differences in the boosting effects of household income on children's executive function in the US. This is a cross-sectional study using data from Wave 1 of the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study. Wave 1 ABCD included 8608 American children between ages 9 and 10 years old. The independent variable was household income. The primary outcome was executive function measured by the stop-signal task. Overall, high household income was associated with higher levels of executive function in the children. Sex showed a statistically significant interaction with household income on children's executive function, indicating a stronger effect of high household income for female compared to male children. Household income is a more salient determinant of executive function for female compared to male American children. Low-income female children remain at the highest risk regarding poor executive function.
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Xiao D, Guo L, Zhao M, Zhang S, Li W, Zhang WH, Lu C. Effect of Sex on the Association Between Nonmedical Use of Opioids and Sleep Disturbance Among Chinese Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:E4339. [PMID: 31703294 PMCID: PMC6888280 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16224339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Sleep disturbance and non-medical prescription opioid use (NMPOU) are currently growing public health concerns, and sex differences may result in differential exposure to frequency of NMPOU or sleep disturbance. This study aimed to explore the association between the frequency of lifetime or past-year NMPOU and sleep disturbance and to evaluate whether there was any sex difference in this association among Chinese adolescents. A cross-sectional study was performed in seven randomly selected Chinese provinces through the 2015 School-Based Chinese Adolescents Health Survey. A total of 159,640 adolescents were invited to participate and among them, 148,687 adolescents' questionnaires were completed and qualified for this study (response rate: 93.14%). All analyses were performed for boys and girls separately. There were significant sex differences in the prevalence of lifetime or past-year opioid misuse and sleep disturbance (p < 0.05). Among girls, frequent lifetime NMPOU (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.80-2.44) and past-year NMPOU (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI = 1.68-2.77) were positively associated with sleep disturbance. Among boys, these associations were also statistically significant, while the magnitudes of associations between frequent lifetime NMPOU or past-year NMPOU and sleep disturbance were greater in girls than those in boys. There is a significant sex difference in the prevalence of lifetime or past-year NMPOU and sleep disturbance. Furthermore, exposure to more frequent lifetime or past-year NMPOU is associated with a greater risk of sleep disturbance, especially among girls. Taking into account the sex difference for lifetime or past-year NMPOU may help to decrease the risk of sleep disturbance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di Xiao
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, 9000 Gent, Belgium
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Lan Guo
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Meijun Zhao
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Sheng Zhang
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Wenyan Li
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
| | - Wei-Hong Zhang
- International Centre for Reproductive Health (ICRH), Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, 9000 Gent, Belgium
- Research Laboratory for Human Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium
| | - Ciyong Lu
- Department of Medical Statistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; (D.X.); (L.G.); (M.Z.); (S.Z.); (W.L.)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China
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Yazdi-Feyzabadi V, Mehrolhassani MH, Zolala F, Haghdoost A, Oroomiei N. Determinants of risky sexual practice, drug abuse and alcohol consumption in adolescents in Iran: a systematic literature review. Reprod Health 2019; 16:115. [PMID: 31340817 PMCID: PMC6657032 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-019-0779-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Evidence shows that the prevalence of risky sexual practice, drug abuse, and alcohol consumption behaviors in low and middle income countries such as Iran is not in a favorable condition. Preventive programs against these behaviors in Iran are very rare, and the results are unclear, which may be due to the lack of deeply and systematically understanding of the determinants of these behaviors. Evidence suggests that these behaviors are coincidence. So all of these behaviors were examined together. The present study was conducted aiming at determining the reasons for the occurrence of these behaviors among 15–19-year-old adolescents in Iran. Methods The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines were followed to review published and unpublished studies in Iran. The databases used were Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. The query terms were “Synthetic Drug” OR “Designer Drug”, AND Adolescents OR Teenagers OR Juvenile, AND Iran. The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist was employed for critical appraisal. The quantitative studies using the regression model to analyze the factors affecting these behaviors were studied as the form of the theme. For analyzing the data, narrative synthesis and thematic analysis were used. Results Twelve studies were meticulously reviewed. The findings were classified into five main themes (including individual, family, friends, school, and community) and 26 sub-themes. The most frequent main theme and sub-themes were respectively Family, Higher age, Male gender, Weak religious beliefs, Low self-esteem, Anti-social behaviors in family, Mother’s employment, Parenting style, Poor intimacy of parents, Absence of parents, Peer pressure, and Lack of appropriate recreation. No primary study has referred to the political, economic, or policy factors affecting such behaviors. Conclusions The most identified sub-themes belong to family factors. Iran is a country with ideology of Islam; however, being Muslim does not guarantee adherence to all Islamic guidelines. So being Muslim is not a good reason to prevent these behaviors. Iran needs precise policy making in this area through considering family structure. It is also suggested that primary studies referring to the political, economic, or policy factors affecting such behaviors should be carried out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Yazdi-Feyzabadi
- PhD in Health Policy, Health Services Management Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Mehrolhassani
- PhD in Health Services Management, Medical Informatics Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Zolala
- Ph.D. in Epidemiology, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - AliAkbar Haghdoost
- PhD in Epidemiology, Health Modeling Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Nadia Oroomiei
- PhD Candidate in Health Policy, Faculty of Management and Medical Informatics, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Medical University Campus, Haft-Bagh Highway, Kerman, 7616913555, Iran.
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Assari S, Caldwell CH. Low Family Support and Risk of Obesity among Black Youth: Role of Gender and Ethnicity. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 4:E36. [PMID: 28498351 PMCID: PMC5447994 DOI: 10.3390/children4050036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Revised: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 04/20/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Most studies on the role of family environment in developing risk of obesity among youth have focused on parenting behaviors that are directly involved in energy balance in regional, non-representative White samples. Using a national sample of ethnically diverse Black youth, the current study tested the association between low family support and risk of obesity. We also tested the heterogeneity of this association based on gender, ethnicity, and their intersection. We used data from the National Survey of American Life-Adolescent Supplement (NSAL-A), a national survey of Black adolescents in the United States. The study enrolled 1170 African American and Caribbean Black 13-17 year old youth. Obesity was defined based on the cutoff points of body mass index (BMI) appropriate for age and gender of youth. Family support was measured using a five-item measure that captured emotional and tangible social support. Age, gender, and ethnicity were also measured. Logistic regressions were utilized in the pooled sample, and also based on gender, ethnicity, and their intersection, to test the link between low family support and risk for obesity. RESULTS In the pooled sample, low family support was not associated with an increased risk of obesity (OR = 1.35, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.96-1.89). The association between low family support and risk of obesity was, however, significant among African American females (OR = 1.60, 95% CI = 1.01-2.55). There was no association for African American males (OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 0.82-1.92), Caribbean Black males (OR = 0.68, 95% CI = 0.01-54.85), and Caribbean Black females (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.42-1.44). In conclusion, policies and programs that enable African American families to provide additional family support may prevent obesity among African American female youth. Future research should test the efficacy of promoting family support as a tool for preventing obesity among African American female youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
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Assari S, Caldwell CH. Neighborhood Safety and Major Depressive Disorder in a National Sample of Black Youth; Gender by Ethnic Differences. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2017; 4:E14. [PMID: 28241490 PMCID: PMC5332916 DOI: 10.3390/children4020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Adolescence is a developmental period marked by increased stress, especially among Black youth. In addition to stress related to their developmental transition, social factors such as a perceived unsafe neighborhood impose additional risks. We examined gender and ethnic differences in the association between perceived neighborhood safety and major depressive disorder (MDD) among a national sample of Black youth. We used data from the National Survey of American Life - Adolescents (NSAL-A), 2003-2004. In total, 1170 Black adolescents entered the study. This number was composed of 810 African American and 360 Caribbean Black youth (age 13 to 17). Demographic factors, perceived neighborhood safety, and MDD (Composite International Diagnostic Interview, CIDI) were measured. Logistic regressions were used to test the association between neighborhood safety and MDD in the pooled sample, as well as based on ethnicity by gender groups. In the pooled sample of Black youth, those who perceived their neighborhoods to be unsafe were at higher risk of MDD (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1.25; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] = 1.02-1.51). The perception that one's neighborhood is unsafe was associated with a higher risk of MDD among African American males (OR=1.41; 95% CI = 1.03-1.93) but not African American females or Caribbean Black males and females. In conclusion, perceived neighborhood safety is not a universal psychological determinant of MDD across ethnic by gender groups of Black youth; however, policies and programs that enhance the sense of neighborhood safety may prevent MDD in male African American youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
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Gender Differences in Vulnerability to Socioeconomic Status on Self-Rated Health in 15 Countries. WOMEN’S HEALTH BULLETIN 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/whb.45280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Gender Differences in Vulnerability to Socioeconomic Status on Self-Rated Health in 15 Countries. WOMEN’S HEALTH BULLETIN 2017. [DOI: 10.5812/whb-45280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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Assari S. Psychosocial Correlates of Body Mass Index in the United States: Intersection of Race, Gender and Age. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRY AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES 2016; 10:e3458. [PMID: 27822270 PMCID: PMC5097345 DOI: 10.17795/ijpbs-3458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2015] [Revised: 04/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on the association between psychosocial factors and obesity have provided mixed findings. OBJECTIVES Current study used a nationally representative sample of U.S. adults to investigate how intersection of race, gender and age alters the psychosocial correlates of body mass index (BMI). MATERIALS AND METHODS Data came from the national health measurement study (NHMS), a cross-sectional study with nationally representative sample of Black and White (n = 3,648) adults ages 35 - 89. We tested bivariate correlations between BMI and physical and mental quality of life, purpose in life, number of chronic medical conditions, and discrimination across race × gender × age groups. RESULTS Higher purpose in life was associated with lower BMI among middle aged and older White women, middle aged Black men, middle aged Black women, and older Black women but not middle aged or older White men and older Black men. There was a positive association between multi-morbidity and BMI in all groups other than older White men. High BMI was associated with poor mental quality of life among older White women, older Black men and women, but not any of middle aged groups, and older White men. High BMI was associated with poor physical quality of life among all groups. Everyday discrimination was positively associated with BMI among older White women but not any other group. Lifetime discrimination was not associated with BMI among any of the groups. CONCLUSIONS Race, gender, and age shape psychosocial and health related correlates of BMI. There is a need for further research on group differences in psychosocial correlates of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA; Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health (CRECH), School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
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Dejman M, Vameghi M, Roshanfekr P, Dejman F, Rafiey H, Forouzan AS, Assari S, Bass J, Johnson RM. Drug Use among Street Children in Tehran, Iran: A Qualitative Study. Front Public Health 2015; 3:279. [PMID: 26779469 PMCID: PMC4688369 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2015.00279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 12/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE Globally, children who work and live on the streets are at higher risk of undesired behavioral health outcomes, including increased drug use and abuse. Considering the rapid growth of this population in Iran and the lack of program planning that is partly due to a scarcity of research-based information, this study was conducted in 2013 to investigate drug use among street children in Tehran. 1METHOD With a qualitative design, we conducted a Rapid Assessment and Response Survey of street children in Tehran, 2012-2013. Data were also obtained from 10 focus group discussions with street children using semi-structured questionnaires and 27 in-depth interviews with key informants in governmental, non-governmental, and international organizations. RESULTS The variation in age at first use, type of drugs, and pattern of drug use were found based on ethnicity. Consuming of Alcohol was reported to be more among an ethnic group. Drug use problems were commonly described among families of street children. Children whose parents had drug-use problems described using drugs earlier than other children. Informants reported that families with drug-related problems used children for procurement of drugs. Children themselves described using drugs to cope with stress, and to reduce physical and psychological stressors and problems, such as fatigue, sadness, and pressure, resulting from frequent failures in life. CONCLUSION These results suggest that intervention and prevention programs dealing with drug use of street children in Iran should include family and peers when addressing drug use by street children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoumeh Dejman
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Meroe Vameghi
- Social Welfare Management Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Payam Roshanfekr
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Dejman
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Rafiey
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ameneh Setareh Forouzan
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shervin Assari
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Judith Bass
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Renee M. Johnson
- Department of Mental Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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14
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Omari FE, Salomonsen-Sautel S, Hoffenberg A, Anderson T, Hopfer C, Toufiq J. Prevalence of substance use among moroccan adolescents and association with academic achievement. World J Psychiatry 2015; 5:425-431. [PMID: 26740934 PMCID: PMC4694556 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v5.i4.425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 07/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/28/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIM: To investigate rates of drug and alcohol use and their association with academic performance in Moroccan youth.
METHODS: An adapted version of the European School Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs survey was administered to 2139 10th-12th graders in 36 Moroccan public high schools. Two multiple logistic regressions were completed, one for male and one for female subjects. Grade average was used as a two-part outcome variable, and drug use was used as a four-level categorical independent variable. Parents’ education levels and socioeconomic status were included as covariates.
RESULTS: Of the subjects, 181 girls (16%) and 390 boys (40%) reported ever having used alcohol, hashish, or psychotropic drugs. Girls who had used any of those substances in the past 30 d demonstrated an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 2.62 (95%CI: 1.31-5.22) of having average or below-average grades, and those with any lifetime use showed an AOR of 1.72 (95%CI: 1.07-2.77). Among the boys, use in the past 30 d was associated with an AOR of 2.08 (95%CI: 1.33-3.24) of average or below average grades, and use in the last 12 mo with an AOR of 1.74 (95%CI: 1.00-3.05). Any lifetime use among male and previous 12 mo use among female subjects were not significantly associated with academic achievement.
CONCLUSION: Among Moroccan adolescents, drug use is substantially different between boys and girls. In both genders, lower academic achievement was associated with alcohol, hashish, or psychotropic drug use in the last 30 d.
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Assari S, Lankarani MM. The Association Between Obesity and Weight Loss Intention Weaker Among Blacks and Men than Whites and Women. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2015; 2:414-20. [PMID: 26462289 PMCID: PMC4599706 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-015-0115-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although obesity is associated with weight loss intention, the magnitude of this association may differ across various populations. Using a nationally representative data of the United States, this study tested the variation of the association between obesity and weight loss intention based on race and gender. METHODS Data came from the National Survey of American Life (NSAL), 2001-2003, which enrolled 5,810 nationally representative sample of adults (3,516 African Americans, 1,415 Caribbean Blacks, and 879 Non-Hispanic Whites). Socio-demographics, body mass index (BMI), and weight loss intention were measured. We fitted logistic regression models in the pooled sample with weight loss intention as outcome, obesity (BMI > 30) as predictor, while the effect of covariates were controlled. To test our moderation hypotheses, we entered race * obesity and gender * obesity interactions to the model. RESULTS Although the association between obesity and weight loss intention was significant among both race and gender groups, the magnitude of the association between obesity and weight loss intention was larger for women than men and Whites than Blacks. That means individuals with obesity have less intention for weight loss if they are Black or men. CONCLUSION The link between obesity and weight loss intention depends on race and gender. Weight loss intention may not increase in response to obesity among Blacks and men, compared to Whites and women. Healthy weight programs in the United States may benefit from tailoring based on race and gender.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, MI, USA
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, MI, USA
| | - Maryam Moghani Lankarani
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, MI, USA
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Assari S. Ethnic and Gender Differences in Additive Effects of Socio-economics, Psychiatric Disorders, and Subjective Religiosity on Suicidal Ideation among Blacks. Int J Prev Med 2015; 6:53. [PMID: 26180624 PMCID: PMC4498310 DOI: 10.4103/2008-7802.158913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2014] [Accepted: 04/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to investigate the additive effects of socio-economic factors, number of psychiatric disorders, and religiosity on suicidal ideation among Blacks, based on the intersection of ethnicity and gender. METHODS With a cross-sectional design, data came from the National Survey of American Life, 2001-2003, which included 3570 African-American and 1621 Caribbean Black adults. Socio-demographics, perceived religiosity, number of lifetime psychiatric disorders and lifetime suicidal ideation were measured. Logistic regressions were fitted specific to groups based on the intersection of gender and ethnicity, while socioeconomics, number of life time psychiatric disorders, and subjective religiosity were independent variables, and lifetime serious suicidal ideation was the dependent variable. RESULTS Irrespective of ethnicity and gender, number of lifetime psychiatric disorders was a risk factor for lifetime suicidal ideation (odds ratio [OR] ranging from 2.4 for Caribbean Black women to 6.0 for Caribbean Black men). Only among African-American men (OR = 0.8, 95% confidence interval = 0.7-0.9), perceived religiosity had a residual protective effect against suicidal ideation above and beyond number of lifetime psychiatric disorders. The direction of the effect of education on suicidal ideating also varied based on the group. CONCLUSIONS Residual protective effect of subjective religiosity in the presence of psychiatric disorders on suicidal ideation among Blacks depends on ethnicity and gender. African-American men with multiple psychiatric disorders and low religiosity are at very high risk for suicidal ideation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, MI, USA
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, MI, USA
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, MI, USA
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17
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Assari S, Smith JR, Caldwell CH, Zimmerman MA. Gender Differences in Longitudinal Links between Neighborhood Fear, Parental Support, and Depression among African American Emerging Adults. SOCIETIES 2015; 5:151-170. [PMID: 32089867 PMCID: PMC7034946 DOI: 10.3390/soc5010151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The transition to adulthood is a developmental period marked by increased stress, especially among African Americans. In addition to stress related to emerging adulthood, neighborhood fear may contribute to depressive symptoms for African Americans. We examined gender differences in longitudinal associations between changes in perceived neighborhood fear, parental support, and depressive symptoms among African American youth who were in transition to adulthood. Five hundred and thirteen African American youths (235 males and 278 females) were included in the study. An increase in perceived neighborhood fear was associated with an increase in depressive symptoms and change in perceived maternal support was predictive of depressive symptoms among males, but not females. The findings suggest that policies and programs should help parents provide support to young adult children who live in violent neighborhoods as a strategy to prevent depressive symptoms during emerging adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shervin Assari
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Michigan, 4250 Plymouth Rd., Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2700, USA
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
| | - Jocelyn R Smith
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
| | - Cleopatra Howard Caldwell
- Center for Research on Ethnicity, Culture and Health, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
| | - Marc A Zimmerman
- Department of Health Behavior and Health Education, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
- Youth Violence Prevention Center, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA
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Khajehdaluee M, Zavar A, Alidoust M, Pourandi R. The relation of self-esteem and illegal drug usage in high school students. IRANIAN RED CRESCENT MEDICAL JOURNAL 2013; 15:e7682. [PMID: 24719686 PMCID: PMC3971778 DOI: 10.5812/ircmj.7682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Revised: 08/23/2013] [Accepted: 09/18/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adolescence is the period of stress and strain. Researchers have shown that adolescents without strong social supports would have tendency towards smoking and drug abuse. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between low self-esteem and illegal drug abuse. MATERIALS AND METHODS Participants were 943 grades nine to 12 high school students, from Sarakhs during 2010 - 2011. Adolescents participated in the study, completed two self-report questionnaires. The first questionnaire included questions about individual and family information, smoking and illegal drug abuse history, and the second was the Rosenberg's self-esteem scale. RESULTS 53.8% of participants were male (507 individuals). The mean Rosenberg self-esteem score was 19.8 + 5.2, and the most frequent obtained scores were from 22 to 30. The difference of Rosenberg self-esteem score test between students who did not use any substance and those who had a history of smoking or drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohols, betel nut (Nas) and other drugs (such as Pan and Hookah) was significant (P < 0.001). But this difference was not significant for marijuana (hashish) and opium. The difference of mean self-esteem scores between adolescents who lived with both or one of the parents, and those who did not live with any of parents, was significant (P = 0.04). There was also a significant association between the number of children in the family and self-esteem score. CONCLUSIONS The current study showed significant association between the Rosenberg self-esteem test results and smoking, and illegal drug abuse like heroin, pills, alcohol, Nas, and other substances. Therefore, increasing self-esteem is essential for preventing the adolescents' emotional and behavioral disorders. This fact could guide us to the new approaches for smoking and drug-abuse prevention in adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Khajehdaluee
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran
| | - Abbas Zavar
- Addiction Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran
- Corresponding Author: Abbas Zavar, Addiction Research Centre, Imam Reza Hospital, Ibn-e-Sina Street, P.O.Box: 91735-348, Mashhad, IR Iran. Tel: +98-5118598 973, Fax: +98-5118525315, E-mail:
| | - Mahbobeh Alidoust
- Sarakhs Health Network, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran
| | - Razieh Pourandi
- Sarakhs Health Network, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IR Iran
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Noroozinejad G, Yarmohmmadi Vasel M, Bazrafkan F, Sehat M, Rezazadeh M, Ahmadi K. Perceived Risk Modifies the Effect of HIV Knowledge on Sexual Risk Behaviors. Front Public Health 2013; 1:33. [PMID: 24350202 PMCID: PMC3860014 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2013.00033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is a large controversy in the literature about the inter-relations between perceived risk, knowledge, and risk behavior in different settings, and people at HIV risk are not an exception. Aim: To assess additive and multiplicative effect of perceived HIV risk and HIV knowledge on sexual risk behavior of Injecting Drug Users (IDUs). Method: We enrolled 162 street based IDUs to this analysis. Data came from a national survey of IDUs in Iran, with a cross sectional design. Socio-demographics (employment, education, marital status), HIV knowledge, perceived HIV risk, and four different sexual risk behavior were registered. In the first step, using spearman test, the association of HIV knowledge and risk behavior were tested, then possible moderating effect of perceived HIV risk on this association was determined. Results: Although among IDUs with low perceived HIV risk, HIV knowledge was negatively associated with sexual risk behavior (P < 0.05 for all), this association was not significant among IDUs with high perceived HIV risk (P > 0.05 for all). Thus perceived HIV risk moderated the association between HIV knowledge and sexual risk behavior. Conclusion: Perceived risk should be taken into consideration when studying the effect of HIV knowledge on sexual risk behavior of IDUs. Findings may help us better understand negative effects of fear arousing interventions as a part of HIV prevention media campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Fatemeh Bazrafkan
- Universal Network for Health Information Dissemination and Exchange (UNHIDE) , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mahmoud Sehat
- Medicine and Health Promotion Institute , Tehran , Iran
| | - Majid Rezazadeh
- AIDS Prevention and Control Committee, Welfare Organization State , Tehran , Iran
| | - Khodabakhsh Ahmadi
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Baqiyatallah Medical Sciences University , Tehran , Iran
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Rekleiti M, Saridi M, Toska A, Kyriazis I, Kyloudis P, Souliotis K, Wozniak G. The effects of a first-aid education program for middle school students in a Greek urban area. Arch Med Sci 2013; 9:758-60. [PMID: 24049542 PMCID: PMC3776165 DOI: 10.5114/aoms.2012.30957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2011] [Revised: 11/25/2011] [Accepted: 01/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ioannis Kyriazis
- Internal Medicine Department and Diabetes Outpatient Clinic, General Hospital ”Asclepeion” Voulas, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Kyriakos Souliotis
- Department of Social and Educational Policy, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Peloponnese, Korinthos, Greece
| | - Greta Wozniak
- Medical School, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
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