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Halliday DM, Zawadzki MJ, Song AV. Variances in Smoking Expectancies Predict Moment-to-Moment Smoking Behaviors in Everyday Life. Int J Behav Med 2024:10.1007/s12529-024-10276-4. [PMID: 38570426 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-024-10276-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many policy decisions about tobacco control are predicated on rational choice models, which posit (1) that smokers are aware of the risks of cigarettes and (2) that perceived risks have a consistent influence on continued smoking behavior. However, research shows that beliefs about smoking may be vulnerable to changes in internal and external contexts. METHODS Using ecological momentary assessment, we tested this by measuring how smokers' (N = 52) beliefs about smoking varied over time. Four times per day over 1 week, participants responded to measures of smoking intentions, risk perceptions, mood and social outcome expectancies, and internal and external contextual factors. RESULTS We analyzed this data using multilevel modeling, finding that both smoking intentions, risk perceptions, and expectancies differed between participants as well as between moments. CONCLUSION Risk perceptions and mood expectancies were a significant predictor of intentions to smoke in the next 30 min, illustrating the importance of these beliefs in decisional processes. This study was preregistered at the Open Science Foundation: https://osf.io/wmv3s/?view_only=71ad66d3ce3845fcb3bf2b9860d820c9 . Our analytic plan was not preregistered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M Halliday
- Center for Tobacco Control Research and Education, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, USA.
| | - Matthew J Zawadzki
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, Merced, Merced, USA
- Nicotine and Cannabis Policy Center, University of California, Merced, Merced, USA
| | - Anna V Song
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, Merced, Merced, USA
- Nicotine and Cannabis Policy Center, University of California, Merced, Merced, USA
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2
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Goodman S, Dann MJ, Fataar F, Abramovici H. How have cannabis use and related indicators changed since legalization of cannabis for non-medical purposes? Results of the Canadian Cannabis Survey 2018-2022. Int J Drug Policy 2024; 127:104385. [PMID: 38520961 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2024.104385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cannabis use for non-medical purposes was legalized and regulated in Canada through the Cannabis Act in October 2018. This paper examined trends in use of cannabis for non-medical purposes and related indicators from pre- to post-legalization in Canada (2018-2022). METHODS Data from 5 years of the Canadian Cannabis Survey, an annual web-based survey administered to Canadians 16 years of age or older, were used in the analysis (n2018=12,952; n2019=11,922; n2020=10,821; n2021=10,733; n2022=10,048). Cannabis measures include questions about use, types of products, sources, risk perceptions and beliefs, and exposure to public education campaigns and health warnings. Adjusted logistic regression models tested differences in outcomes over time. RESULTS Past 12-month cannabis consumption increased among Canadians from 22 % in 2018 to 27 % in 2022 (AOR=1.41;99 % CI:1.28-1.54). Similarly, daily/almost daily (DAD) consumption increased from 5 % in 2018 to 7 % in 2022 (AOR=1.36;99 % CI:1.16-1.59). Consumption of dried flower, hash/kief, and concentrates/extracts (e.g., wax, shatter, budder) decreased since 2018, whereas consumption of edibles, beverages and vape pens/cartridges increased (p < 0.001). Legal purchasing increased from 4 % in 2018 to 69 % in 2022, while accessing cannabis through social and illegal sources decreased over time (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION More Canadians are reporting cannabis consumption since legalization and regulation of cannabis for non-medical purposes, continuing a pre-existing trend despite an increase in awareness of the risks of consuming cannabis. Trends in product use indicate a transition from dried flower and concentrates/extracts towards consumption of cannabis foods, drinks and vape pens/cartridges. The legal market is increasingly displacing the illicit cannabis market in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Goodman
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Matthew J Dann
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Fathima Fataar
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada
| | - Hanan Abramovici
- Office of Cannabis Science and Surveillance, Controlled Substances and Cannabis Branch, Health Canada, Canada.
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Thompson RR, Jones NM, Garfin DR, Holman EA, Silver RC. Contrasting Objective and Perceived Risk: Predicting COVID-19 Health Behaviors in a Nationally Representative U.S. Sample. Ann Behav Med 2024; 58:242-252. [PMID: 38413045 DOI: 10.1093/abm/kaad055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/29/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals confronting health threats may display an optimistic bias such that judgments of their risk for illness or death are unrealistically positive given their objective circumstances. PURPOSE We explored optimistic bias for health risks using k-means clustering in the context of COVID-19. We identified risk profiles using subjective and objective indicators of severity and susceptibility risk for COVID-19. METHODS Between 3/18/2020-4/18/2020, a national probability sample of 6,514 U.S. residents reported both their subjective risk perceptions (e.g., perceived likelihood of illness or death) and objective risk indices (e.g., age, weight, pre-existing conditions) of COVID-19-related susceptibility and severity, alongside other pandemic-related experiences. Six months later, a subsample (N = 5,661) completed a follow-up survey with questions about their frequency of engagement in recommended health protective behaviors (social distancing, mask wearing, risk behaviors, vaccination intentions). RESULTS The k-means clustering procedure identified five risk profiles in the Wave 1 sample; two of these demonstrated aspects of optimistic bias, representing almost 44% of the sample. In OLS regression models predicting health protective behavior adoption at Wave 2, clusters representing individuals with high perceived severity risk were most likely to report engagement in social distancing, but many individuals who were objectively at high risk for illness and death did not report engaging in self-protective behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Objective risk of disease severity only inconsistently predicted health protective behavior. Risk profiles may help identify groups that need more targeted interventions to increase their support for public health policy and health enhancing recommendations more broadly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca R Thompson
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Nickolas M Jones
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Dana Rose Garfin
- Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, USA
| | - E Alison Holman
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Roxane Cohen Silver
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Program in Public Health and Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
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4
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Austin JD, Jenkins SM, Suman VJ, Raygoza JP, Ridgeway JL, Norman A, Gonzalez C, Hernandez V, Ghosh K, Patel BK, Vachon CM. Breast Cancer Risk Perceptions Among Underserved, Hispanic Women: Implications for Risk-Based Approaches to Screening. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-01949-7. [PMID: 38383839 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-01949-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding factors that shape breast cancer risk perceptions is essential for implementing risk-based approaches to breast cancer detection and prevention. This study aimed to assess multilevel factors, including prior screening behavior, shaping underserved, Hispanic women's perceived risk for breast cancer. METHODS Secondary analysis of survey data from Hispanic women (N = 1325, 92% Spanish speaking, 64% < 50) enrolled in a large randomized controlled trial. Analyses were performed in two cohorts to account for the role of age on screening guideline recommendations (< 50 and 50 +). For each cohort, we examined differences in three common measures of perceived risk of breast cancer (percent lifetime, ordinal lifetime, comparative) by participant factors with chi-square or Kruskal-Wallis tests, as appropriate. Multivariate analyses examined the association between mammography history with percent perceived lifetime risk (outcome > 10 vs ≤ 10%). RESULTS Overall, 75% reported a lifetime risk between 0 and 10%, 96% rated their ordinal risk as "not high," and 50% rated their comparative risk as "much lower." Women < 50 with a family history of breast cancer reported significantly higher levels of perceived risk across all three measures. Among women 50 + , those reporting lower levels of perceived risk were significantly more likely to be Spanish speaking. No significant association was observed between mammography history and percent lifetime risk of breast cancer. CONCLUSION Factors shaping breast cancer risk perceptions differ by age. Prior screening may play less of role in constructing risk perceptions. Research is needed to develop culturally and linguistically appropriate strategies to improve implementation of risk-based screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Austin
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic, 13400 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA.
| | - Sarah M Jenkins
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Vera J Suman
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Jhenitza P Raygoza
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic, 13400 E. Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ, 85259, USA
| | - Jennifer L Ridgeway
- Division of Health Care Delivery Research, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Robert D. and Patricia E. Kern Center for the Science of Health Care Delivery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Aaron Norman
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Clinical Trials and Biostatistics, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Crystal Gonzalez
- Department of Integrated Nutrition Services and Collaborative Research, Mountain Park Health Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Valentina Hernandez
- Department of Integrated Nutrition Services and Collaborative Research, Mountain Park Health Center, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Karthik Ghosh
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Bhavika K Patel
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Celine M Vachon
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Division of Epidemiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Mercincavage M, Waugh LK, Gratale S, Wackowski O, Pearson JL, House K, O'Connor R, Strasser AA. Acute effects of charcoal filters and package color on cigarette perceptions and use behaviors: Results from a randomized pilot study examining Natural American Spirit "Sky". Drug Alcohol Depend 2024; 255:111080. [PMID: 38198898 PMCID: PMC10843540 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2024.111080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Charcoal-filtered cigarettes have been available for decades but have never held a major share of the U.S. cigarette market. This pilot study gathered initial behavioral data characterizing how "Sky"-a recently introduced charcoal-filtered cigarette variety that uses potentially misleading marketing features-is used and what impact its packaging color has on consumer perceptions. METHODS Forty adult daily non-menthol cigarettes users (52.5% male, 75.0% White, mean age = 46.1, 14.3 mean cigarettes/day) completed a single-session deception study utilizing a 2 ×2 mixed factorial design to manipulate cigarette filter condition (charcoal vs. non-charcoal) and pack color (light vs. dark). Participants smoked two cigarettes identical in appearance and packaging but differing in filter type (blinded and order counterbalanced) and completed pre- and post-cigarette CO samples and post-cigarette questionnaires. RESULTS Participants endorsed more favorable subjective ratings, puffed less of, held more correct beliefs about risks, and expressed greater intentions to use the charcoal (vs. non-charcoal)-filtered cigarette (p's <0.05). Pack color had few effects on outcomes; however, cigarettes in light vs. dark colored packs were rated as cleaner tasting (p <0.01). Neither filter condition nor pack color affected CO boost. There were no interaction effects on any outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Under blinded conditions, Sky charcoal-filtered cigarettes are initially appealing independent of their packaging color. Findings warrant further study of these effects on perceptions, behavior, and harm exposure after longer, open-label use periods. Findings may inform regulatory decisions regarding cigarette packaging and filter composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Mercincavage
- Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, NJ, United States; University of Pennsylvania-Rutgers University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, United States; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States.
| | - Lizza K Waugh
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Stefanie Gratale
- Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, NJ, United States; University of Pennsylvania-Rutgers University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, United States
| | - Olivia Wackowski
- Rutgers Institute for Nicotine and Tobacco Studies, New Brunswick, NJ, United States; University of Pennsylvania-Rutgers University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, United States
| | - Jennifer L Pearson
- University of Pennsylvania-Rutgers University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, United States; University of Nevada-Reno, Reno, NV, United States
| | - Kendra House
- University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Richard O'Connor
- Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Buffalo, NY, United States
| | - Andrew A Strasser
- University of Pennsylvania-Rutgers University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science, United States; University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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Wagner AL, Zhang F, Kerekes S, Shih SF, Zhao L. COVID-19 vaccination preferences during a pause in Johnson & Johnson vaccine administration. Vaccine X 2023; 15:100373. [PMID: 37674932 PMCID: PMC10477674 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2023.100373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In April 2021, the US paused Janssen (J&J) COVID-19 vaccination because of reported blood clots post vaccination. This paper explores how vaccine decision-making--receiving a J&J vaccine right away vs waiting for a Pfizer vaccine--changed during the pause. In an opt-in internet-based survey April 2021 with 915 participants, 37 % were not vaccinated. Of these, 18 % would accept a J&J vaccine, 5 % would wait 1 month for a Pfizer vaccine, 25 % would wait 3 months, and 52 % would not want any vaccine. Among the unvaccinated, 56 % had heard of blood clots; 61 % of these did not want any vaccine, compared to 41 % of those who had not heard of blood clots. Moreover, among those vaccine hesitant in general, 11 % would still obtain a J&J vaccine if offered right away. These findings may suggest spillover of brand-specific adverse event concerns to the vaccine product as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abram L. Wagner
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Felicia Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Stefania Kerekes
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Faculty of European Studies, Babeș-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, 400090 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Shu-Fang Shih
- Department of Health Administration, College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23298, USA
| | - Lili Zhao
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Stuart JO, Windschitl PD, Bossard E, Bruchmann K, Smith AR, Rose JP, Suls J. Which measures of perceived vulnerability predict protective intentions-and when? J Behav Med 2023; 46:912-929. [PMID: 37558773 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-023-00439-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Assessing perceived vulnerability to a health threat is essential to understanding how people conceptualize their risk, and to predicting how likely they are to engage in protective behaviors. However, there is limited consensus about which of many measures of perceived vulnerability predict behavior best. We tested whether the ability of different measures to predict protective intentions varies as a function of the type of information people learn about their risk. Online participants (N = 909) read information about a novel respiratory disease before answering measures of perceived vulnerability and vaccination intentions. Type-of-risk information was varied across three between-participant groups. Participants learned either: (1) only information about their comparative standing on the primary risk factors (comparative-only), (2) their comparative standing as well as the base-rate of the disease in the population (+ base-rate), or (3) their comparative standing as well as more specific estimates of their absolute risk (+ absolute-chart). Experiential and affective measures of perceived vulnerability predicted protective intentions well regardless of how participants learned about their risk, while the predictive ability of deliberative numeric and comparative measures varied based on the type of risk information provided. These results broaden the generalizability of key prior findings (i.e., some prior findings about which measures predict best may apply no matter how people learn about their risk), but the results also reveal boundary conditions and critical points of distinction for determining how to best assess perceived vulnerability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jillian O'Rourke Stuart
- Department of Psychology, Virginia Military Institute, 319 Letcher Avenue, Lexington, VA, 24450, USA.
| | - Paul D Windschitl
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, G60 Psychological and Brain Sciences Building, Iowa City, IA, 52242-1407, USA
| | - Elaine Bossard
- Department of Psychology, Waldorf University, 106 South 6th St, Forest City, IA, 50436, USA
| | - Kathryn Bruchmann
- Department of Psychology, Santa Clara University, Vari Hall, 500 El Camino Real, Santa Clara, CA, 95053, USA
| | - Andrew R Smith
- Department of Psychology, Appalachian State University, 222 Joyce Lawrence Ln, P.O. Box 32109, Boone, NC, 28608, USA
| | - Jason P Rose
- Department of Psychology, University of Toledo, 2801 W. Bancroft St, 43606, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Jerry Suls
- Institute of Health System Science, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
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Law JH, Sultan N, Finer S, Fudge N. Advancing the communication of genetic risk for cardiometabolic diseases: a critical interpretive synthesis. BMC Med 2023; 21:432. [PMID: 37953248 PMCID: PMC10641935 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03150-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetics play an important role in risk for cardiometabolic diseases-including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and obesity. Existing research has explored the clinical utility of genetic risk tools such as polygenic risk scores-and whether interventions communicating genetic risk information using these tools can impact on individuals' cognitive appraisals of disease risk and/or preventative health behaviours. Previous systematic reviews suggest mixed results. To expand current understanding and address knowledge gaps, we undertook an interpretive, reflexive method of evidence synthesis-questioning the theoretical basis behind current interventions that communicate genetic risk information and exploring how the effects of genetic risk tools can be fully harnessed for cardiometabolic diseases. METHODS We obtained 189 records from a combination of database, website and grey literature searches-supplemented with reference chaining and expert subject knowledge within the review team. Using pre-defined critical interpretive synthesis methods, quantitative and qualitative evidence was synthesised and critiqued alongside theoretical understanding from surrounding fields of behavioural and social sciences. FINDINGS Existing interventions communicating genetic risk information focus predominantly on the "self", targeting individual-level cognitive appraisals, such as perceived risk and perceived behavioural control. This approach risks neglecting the role of contextual factors and upstream determinants that can reinforce individuals' interpretations of risk. It also assumes target populations to embody an "ascetic subject of compliance"-the idea of a patient who strives to comply diligently with professional medical advice, logically and rationally adopting any recommended lifestyle changes. We developed a synthesising argument-"beyond the ascetic subject of compliance"-grounded in three major limitations of this perspective: (1) difficulty applying existing theories/models to diverse populations, (2) the role of familial variables and (3) the need for a life course perspective. CONCLUSIONS Interventions communicating genetic risk information should account for wider influences that can affect individuals' responses to risk at different levels-including through interactions with their family systems, socio-cultural environments and wider health provision. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION PROSPERO CRD42021289269.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Hui Law
- Centre for Primary Care, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Najia Sultan
- Centre for Primary Care, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Finer
- Centre for Primary Care, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
- Barts Health NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Nina Fudge
- Centre for Primary Care, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
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Duan Z, Levine H, Bar-Zeev Y, Cui Y, LoParco CR, Wang Y, Abroms LC, Khayat A, Berg CJ. Health warning labels on heated tobacco products and their impact on use intentions and risk perceptions: a cross-sectional study of adult tobacco users in the US and Israel. Isr J Health Policy Res 2023; 12:33. [PMID: 37957696 PMCID: PMC10644544 DOI: 10.1186/s13584-023-00582-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health warning labels (HWLs) represent an evidence-based tobacco control strategy; however, their application to heated tobacco products (HTPs) and related impacts are understudied. This study examined the impact of HTP HWLs on HTP use intentions and risk perceptions among current tobacco users. METHODS We analyzed cross-sectional survey data from adults in the US and Israel reporting past-month tobacco use and awareness of HTPs (N = 424). Multivariate analyses examined: (1) sociodemographics in relation to self-reported impact of HTP HWLs (i.e., more concerned about HTP use, reassured, no effect [referent]) among those who noticed HTP HWLs (multinomial regressions); and (2) HWL impacts in relation to HTP use intentions and perceived addictiveness and harm (linear regressions). RESULTS Among participants who noticed HTP HWLs (n = 372, 87.7%), 27.7% reported HWLs increased their concerns about HTP use, 22.6% were reassured about use, and 49.7% reported no effect. Factors associated with increased concern (vs. no effect) included other tobacco product use (aOR = 2.10, 95% CI 1.21-3.64) and being female (aOR = 1.77, 95% CI 1.03-3.05). Factors associated with being reassured about HTPs use (vs. no effect) included current HTP use (aOR = 2.11, 95% CI 1.11-4.00) and being from Israel (vs. US: aOR = 3.85, 95% CI 1.85-7.69), female (aOR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.07-3.42), and less educated (< college education: aOR = 2.57, 95% CI 1.42-4.63). Reporting that HWLs on HTPs increased concern (β = 0.46, 95% CI 0.03-0.89) and reassured of use (β = 0.94, 95% CI 0.47-1.41) were positively associated with HTP use intentions; no associations with risk perceptions were found. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that most tobacco users noticed HWLs on HTPs, but the majority reported no effect or being reassured of using HTPs, effects that were magnified for specific subgroups. Both increased concern and reassurance correlated with greater use intentions. Additional research should evaluate HTP HWL impacts and ensure effectiveness in communicating risks and discouraging use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongshuan Duan
- Department of Population Health Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Hadassah Medical Centre, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yael Bar-Zeev
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Hadassah Medical Centre, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Yuxian Cui
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Cassidy R LoParco
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lorien C Abroms
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
- George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Amal Khayat
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Hadassah Medical Centre, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Carla J Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
- George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA.
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10
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Bearth A, Köppel G, Schöni N, Ropelato S, Siegrist M. Protecting the children -a virtual reality experiment on consumers' risk perceptions of household chemicals. Appl Ergon 2023; 113:104095. [PMID: 37478694 DOI: 10.1016/j.apergo.2023.104095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Warnings on the labels of hazardous household chemicals (e.g. warning pictograms and use instructions) should create risk awareness and thus encourage safe storage, handling and disposal. However, scientific findings have called into question the effectiveness of warnings to prevent accidents, albeit mostly based on consumers' self-reports. This study aimed to contribute to existing data on household chemicals and consumer safety by applying a novel observational method using virtual reality (VR). The study participants (N = 119) were observed after receiving a task to childproof a virtual apartment from various interactable neutral and hazardous objects (i.e. knives, lighters and household chemicals with and without warnings) that were placed in the virtual apartment. For the analysis, the object placement (i.e. accessible or inaccessible to the children) and the level of interaction with the objects were coded, and the observational data were supplemented with data gathered through a questionnaire. The results showed that most hazardous household chemicals were moved to spots that were inaccessible to the children without any interactions of the participants with the warnings. Instead, they used their pre-existing knowledge and intuitive strategies to judge the objects' risks. These potentially misleading intuitive strategies should be increasingly considered in the regulation of hazardous household chemicals. This study also discussed the use and limitations of VR for the observation of human behaviour and decision making under uncertainty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Bearth
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Switzerland.
| | - Gioia Köppel
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Switzerland
| | - Nicole Schöni
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Switzerland
| | - Sandro Ropelato
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Switzerland
| | - Michael Siegrist
- Consumer Behavior, Institute for Environmental Decisions (IED), ETH Zurich (ETHZ), Switzerland
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Selya A, Shiffman S. Comparative risk perceptions of switching to JUUL vs. continued smoking and subsequent switching away from cigarettes: a longitudinal observational study. BMC Psychol 2023; 11:305. [PMID: 37798775 PMCID: PMC10552465 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01351-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Evidence indicates that electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) pose lower risk than cigarettes; however, many smokers harbor misperceptions that ENDS are equally or more harmful, possibly deterring them from switching. This study examines whether comparative risk perceptions of JUUL vs. smoking are associated with subsequent switching, among smokers who recently purchased JUUL. METHODS N = 16,996 current established smokers who recently purchased a JUUL Starter Kit were followed 6 times over 12 months. Comparative risk perceptions were assessed using both direct and indirect measures (i.e., contrasting JUUL and smoking directly in questions, and deriving from separate absolute scales). Repeated-measures logistic regression examined switching across follow-up (no smoking in past 30 days) as a function of baseline risk perceptions, adjusting for demographics and baseline smoking behavior. RESULTS Perceiving JUUL as less harmful than smoking was associated with higher switching rates, using both direct (e.g., adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.48 for "JUUL much less" vs. "more/much more harmful") and indirect (AOR = 1.07, for each 10-unit increase in fraction; AOR = 1.51 for highest (6-100) vs. lowest (0 to < 1) fraction categories) comparative risk measures (all p < 0.0001). Among the subset smoking 10 + cigarettes per day, associations between risk perceptions and switching were more pronounced (AOR = 2.51 for "JUUL much less" vs. "more/much more harmful"; AOR = 1.81 for 6-100 vs. 0 to < 1 fraction, both p < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS Smokers who perceive JUUL as less harmful than cigarettes have higher odds of switching. Future research should examine whether messaging which aligns comparative risk perceptions with current evidence can facilitate switching, especially among heavier smokers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arielle Selya
- Pinney Associates, Inc, 201 N Craig St., Suite 320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Saul Shiffman
- Pinney Associates, Inc, 201 N Craig St., Suite 320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
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12
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Shapiro HG, Ruder MG, Nimlos NM, Pienaar EF. Understanding rabbit owners' willingness to engage in disease prevention behaviors. Prev Vet Med 2023; 219:106018. [PMID: 37690295 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2) is a fatal, highly contagious pathogen that infects wild and domestic lagomorphs (rabbits and hares). RHDV2 is an important cause of disease in pet and companion rabbits, has resulted in economic losses for the commercial rabbit industry, and has caused declines of wild lagomorph populations. It is essential for domestic rabbit owners to engage in appropriate actions (e.g., using effective disinfectants, creating secure barriers between domestic and wild rabbits) to protect the health and welfare of their rabbits and reduce the risk of human-mediated spread of RHDV2. Thus, we investigated rabbit owners' stated willingness to engage in nine commonly recommended biosecurity practices and their support for seven potential government-implemented management actions. We administered an online survey to 1790 rabbit owners in the United States between April and August 2021. Respondents were likely to engage in all biosecurity measures and were supportive of most management actions that could be implemented by government agencies. Respondents' willingness to engage in and support biosecurity measures was positively correlated with their perceptions of the importance of biosecurity, risk perceptions pertaining to the impact of RHDV2 on lagomorphs and rabbit-related industries, knowledge of RHDV2, and trust in government to manage RHDV2. Respondents' motivations for owning rabbits, husbandry behaviors, and demographic characteristics also influenced their willingness to engage in or support biosecurity measures. Engaging domestic rabbit owners in collaborative biosecurity measures is critical for protecting domestic rabbit health and preventing potential spillover between domestic and free-roaming lagomorphs, as there are still many uncertainties about how RHDV2 is spreading across the United States and the world. Implementing outreach strategies that communicate the importance and effectiveness of biosecurity practices in protecting rabbit welfare, rabbit-related activities, and wild lagomorph populations may increase the likelihood of rabbit owners adopting biosecurity measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah G Shapiro
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Nicole M Nimlos
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States
| | - Elizabeth F Pienaar
- Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, United States; Mammal Research Institute, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
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13
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Book LA, Tanford S, Baloglu S. Effects of media portrayal on perceived cruise risk, image, and intentions. Tour Manag Perspect 2023; 48:101126. [PMID: 37333021 PMCID: PMC10260374 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmp.2023.101126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
This research examines how news media portrayal of Covid-19 cases on cruise ships can produce decision biases. Two experiments were conducted in which news stories were varied according to format, base rate, framing and number size. The results demonstrate that prior cruise experience increases travel intentions and cruise image and lowers perceptions of cruise risk. Perceived risk is higher when the number of cases is presented in concrete numbers versus abstract percentages. Negative framing increases perceptions of cruise risk versus positive framing, especially when expressed in small numbers. The results extend beyond Covid-19 by demonstrating that sensationalism in the news media can result in decision biases that over- emphasize negative outcomes and increases risk perceptions in the minds of consumers. The findings suggest travel companies should work together with news media outlets when crisis situations arise to shift away from sensationalism and provide concrete information that is useful for consumers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Book
- University of Nevada Las Vegas, William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, USA
| | - Sarah Tanford
- University of Nevada Las Vegas, William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, USA
| | - Seyhmus Baloglu
- University of Nevada Las Vegas, William F. Harrah College of Hospitality, USA
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14
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Wang X. How Chinese attitudes toward COVID-19 policies changed between June and early December 2022: Risk perceptions and the uses of mainstream media and WeChat. SSM Popul Health 2023; 23:101467. [PMID: 37520308 PMCID: PMC10372452 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Debates about China's zero-COVID policy should consider Chinese public attitudes toward COVID-19 and China's COVID-19 policies. Such attitudes can provide a theoretical account for public health crisis management and have implications for China to manage future public health crises. The present research reports on two surveys conducted in mainland China in June (N = 460) and early December 2022 (N = 450) to examine the changing COVID-19 risk perceptions and policy attitudes. Results showed that the participants' perception of the severity of COVID-19, perceived health consequences of a COVID-19 policy, and fear predicted their policy attitudes. In contrast, perceived disruption to the economy and daily lives was a weak predictor of Chinese attitudes toward a COVID policy. Furthermore, mainstream media use was positively associated with favorable attitudes toward the COVID-19 policy backed by the government (i.e., zero-COVID in June and relaxing restrictions in December). On the other hand, the uses of WeChat positively predicted favorable attitudes toward the alternatives to the government's approach. The results indicate the need to address public health concerns and employ the mainstream media in China for public health communication.
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15
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Rivera-Cuadrado W. Healthcare practitioners' construction of occupational risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. Soc Sci Med 2023; 331:116096. [PMID: 37478661 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVE In the pandemic's first year, frontline healthcare practitioners (HCPs) experienced a disproportionate burden of COVID-19's negative effects, including infection, death, trauma and burnout. Qualitative research is needed to understand practitioners' experiences to address the unique challenges they face. To this end, this article investigates occupational factors identified by practitioners as relevant to their risk perceptions. By positioning HCPs as a distinctive risk group in the hierarchical space of risk group prioritization, this analysis extends thinking about such classifications within medicine. METHODS Remote interviews were conducted between 2020 and 2022 with 45 U.S. practitioners, including physicians, nurse practitioners, physician associates, registered nurses and technicians. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and coded using NVivo to analyze how practitioners understood their occupational risk. RESULTS Participants' risk perceptions focused on three concerns. First, working within spatial concentrations of COVID-19 required adapting procedures and reimagining their bodies as potentially hazardous. Second, the limitations of protective measures elevated concerns about healthcare work, and were perceived as pitting practitioners' health against patient care and administrative needs. Third, managing the many uncertainties about COVID-19 meant HCPs risked both its known and unknown effects. CONCLUSION This study examines frontline practitioners' perceptions of occupational risk during the pandemic. It argues two tensions underlie practitioners' risk perceptions. First, like other essential workers, HCPs constituted a unique risk group that distinguished them from other vulnerable populations - due to risks arising from occupational rather than biomedical factors. Second, unlike other essential workers, practitioners were directly exposed to infectious patients that posed risks to their health. These elements each highlight a perceived gap between practitioners' and administrators' risk perceptions that facilitated HCP cynicism about guidelines. Future research may fruitfully investigate if these themes persist outside the U.S. and across healthcare systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wayne Rivera-Cuadrado
- Northwestern University, Department of Sociology, 1810 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL, 60208, USA.
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16
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Hindmarch S, Gorman L, Hawkes RE, Howell SJ, French DP. "I don't know what I'm feeling for": young women's beliefs about breast cancer risk and experiences of breast awareness. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:312. [PMID: 37328760 PMCID: PMC10276361 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02441-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Younger women are often diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. Beliefs about risk are instrumental in motivating many health protective behaviours, but there may be confusion around which behaviour is appropriate to detect breast cancer earlier. Breast awareness, defined as an understanding of how the breasts look and feel so changes can be identified early, is widely recommended. In contrast, breast self-examination involves palpation using a specified method. We aimed to investigate young women's beliefs about their risk and experiences of breast awareness. METHODS Thirty-seven women aged 30-39 years residing in a North West region of England with no family or personal history of breast cancer participated in seven focus groups (n = 29) and eight individual interviews. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three themes were generated. "Future me's problem" describes why women perceive breast cancer as an older woman's disease. Uncertainty regarding checking behaviours highlights how confusion about self-checking behaviour advice has resulted in women infrequently performing breast checks. Campaigns as a missed opportunity highlights the potential negative effects of current breast cancer fundraising campaigns and the perceived absence of educational campaigning about breast cancer for this demographic. CONCLUSIONS Young women expressed low perceived susceptibility to developing breast cancer in the near future. Women did not know what breast self-checking behaviours they should be performing and expressed a lack of confidence in how to perform a breast check appropriately due to limited knowledge about what to look and feel for. Consequently, women reported disengagement with breast awareness. Defining and clearly communicating the best strategy for breast awareness and establishing whether it is beneficial or not are essential next steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Hindmarch
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Louise Gorman
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Rhiannon E Hawkes
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sacha J Howell
- Division of Cancer Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - David P French
- Manchester Centre for Health Psychology, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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17
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Cabral DN, Tsai MH, Gishe J, Dagne GA. Colorectal Cancer Risk Perceptions Among Black Men in Florida. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2023:10.1007/s40615-023-01667-6. [PMID: 37311885 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-023-01667-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE We examined colorectal cancer (CRC) risk perceptions among Black men in relation to socio-demographic characteristics, disease prevention factors, and personal/family history of CRC. METHODS A self-administered cross-sectional survey was conducted in five major cities in Florida between April 2008 and October 2009. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were performed. RESULTS Among 331 eligible men, we found a higher proportion of CRC risk perceptions were exhibited among those aged ≥ 60 years (70.5%) and American nativity (59.1%). Multivariable analyses found men aged ≥ 60 had three times greater odds of having higher CRC risk perceptions compared to those ≤ 49 years (95% CI = 1.51-9.19). The odds of higher CRC risk perception for obese participants were more than four times (95% CI = 1.66-10.00) and overweight were more than twice the odds (95% CI = 1.03-6.31) as compared to healthy weight/underweight participants. Men using the Internet to search for health information also had greater odds of having higher CRC risk perceptions (95% CI = 1.02-4.00). Finally, men with a personal/family history of CRC were ninefold more likely to have higher CRC risk perceptions (95% CI = 2.02-41.79). CONCLUSION Higher CRC risk perceptions were associated with older age, being obese/overweight, using the Internet as a health information source, and having a personal/family history of CRC. Culturally resonate health promotion interventions are sorely needed to elevate CRC risk perceptions for increasing intention to screen among Black men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daramola N Cabral
- Department of Health, Human Services, and Public Policy, College of Health Sciences and Human Services, California State University, Monterey Bay, Seaside, CA, USA
- African Caribbean Cancer Consortium, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Meng-Han Tsai
- Cancer Prevention, Control, & Population Health Program, Georgia Cancer Center, Augusta University, 1410 Laney Walker Boulevard, Suite CN-2154, Augusta, GA, USA.
- Georgia Prevention Institute, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA.
| | - Jemal Gishe
- Department of Public Health, Health Administration, and Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Getachew A Dagne
- College of Public Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
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18
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Liu LS, Jia X, Zhu A, Ran GJ, Johnston D, Siegert R, Gong Y, French N, Lu J. Measuring the missing: Knowledge, risk perceptions and self-protection practices of COVID-19 among the Asian population in New Zealand: An online survey. Z Gesundh Wiss 2023:1-18. [PMID: 37361274 PMCID: PMC10193356 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01926-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Aim Asians are the second largest and fastest growing non-European population in New Zealand but are under-researched in terms of their COVID-19 pandemic response. The paper aims to illustrates Asians' risk perceptions and knowledge of COVID-19, and self-protection practices to avoid infection and prevent community transmission. Subject and methods An online survey was used to collect data and received 402 valid responses. Data analyses included: 1) a descriptive analysis by using Chi-square tests and a Kruskal-Wallis rank sum tests to explore associations between responses and the four demographic variables (i.e. age, gender, country of origin/ethnicity, and region); and 2) a correlation analysis between different survey objectives. Results The descriptive analysis of the survey found that while ethnicity (within the Asian category) was the most influential variable that resulted in varying responses to many questions, gender and age were other two important variables in influencing the answering patterns. The correlation analysis found a positive correlation between the perceived 'dangerousness' of COVID-19 and respondents' overall compliance behaviour to New Zealand authorities' recommendations to prevent spread of COVID-19. Conclusion The majority of the respondents provided correct answers to the questions about the vulnerable populations, symptoms, asymptomatic transmission and potential sequelae of COVID-19; however, their understanding of the availability of a cure for, and the incubation period of COVID-19 was not consistent with the official information. The research also found that the higher perceived dangerousness of COVID-19, the better compliance to self-protection practices among the surveyed population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangni Sally Liu
- School of Humanities, Media and Creative Communication, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Xiaoyun Jia
- Institute of Governance & School of Politics and Public Administration, Shandong University, Qingdao, China
| | - Andrew Zhu
- Trace Research Ltd, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Guanyu Jason Ran
- School of Applied Sciences, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David Johnston
- Joint Centre for Disaster Research, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Richard Siegert
- Department of Psychology & Neuroscience, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yuan Gong
- School of Humanities, Media and Creative Communication, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Nigel French
- Infectious Diseases Research Centre, Hopkirk Research Institute, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
| | - Jun Lu
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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19
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Brown R, Sillence E, Pepper G. Perceptions of control over different causes of death and the accuracy of risk estimations. Z Gesundh Wiss 2023:1-14. [PMID: 37361271 PMCID: PMC10102679 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-023-01910-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Background A large number of deaths could be avoided by improving health behaviours. The degree to which people invest in their long-term health is influenced by how much they believe they can control their risk of death. Identifying causes of death believed to be uncontrollable, but likely to occur, may provide actionable targets for health interventions to increase control beliefs and encourage healthier behaviours. Method We recruited a nationally representative online sample of 1500 participants in the UK. We assessed perceived control, perceived personal likelihood of death, certainty of risk estimation, and perceived knowledge for 20 causes of death. We also measured overall perceived uncontrollable mortality risk (PUMR) and perceived prevalence for each of the Office for National Statistics' categories of avoidable death. Findings Risk of death due to cancer was considered highly likely to occur but largely beyond individual control. Cardiovascular disease was considered moderately controllable and a likely cause of death. Drugs and alcohol were perceived as risks both high in control and low in likelihood of death. However, perceptions of control over specific causes of death were found not to predict overall PUMR, with the exception of cardiovascular disease. Finally, our sample substantially overestimated the prevalence of drug and alcohol-related deaths in the UK. Conclusions We suggest that more can be done by public health communicators to emphasise the lifestyle and behavioural changes that individuals can make to reduce their general cancer risk. More work is needed to understand the barriers to engaging with preventative behaviours and maintaining a healthy heart. Finally, we call for greater journalistic responsibility when reporting health risks to the public. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-023-01910-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Brown
- Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, Newcastle, NE1 8SG UK
| | - Elizabeth Sillence
- Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, Newcastle, NE1 8SG UK
| | - Gillian Pepper
- Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, Newcastle, NE1 8SG UK
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20
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Lyytimäki J, Eckert N, Lepenies R, Mosoni C, Mustajoki J, Pedersen AB. Assuming accuracy, pretending influence? Risks of measuring, monitoring and reporting sustainable development goals. Ambio 2023; 52:702-710. [PMID: 36178664 PMCID: PMC9524343 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-022-01787-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
From the local to global level, indicators and reports are produced and published to support the transition towards sustainable development. Building from two European-level science-policy workshops, this perspective essay discusses the types of risks involved with such sustainability reporting. The analysis is rooted in the framework of the UN 2030 Agenda and sustainable development goals (SDG). As a globally adopted framework, it provides an example of how risks are either recognised and framed, or non-recognised. Well recognised risks include data availability for SDGs and siloed preparation of indicators, while risks receiving less attention are ritualistic reporting lacking a critical evaluation of the limitations of the SDG framework itself. These different risks are likely to reinforce each other. A specific risk is a too narrow focus on one-way communication aiming to inform individual policy decisions. Risks related to SDGs are best managed with iterative, integrative and interactive knowledge production fostering holistic understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jari Lyytimäki
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Nicolas Eckert
- INRAE, UR ETNA, Université Grenoble Alpes, 2 rue de la papeterie, 38402 St Martin d’Heres, France
| | - Robert Lepenies
- Karlshochschule International University, Karlstrasse 26-28, 71633 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Claire Mosoni
- Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE), Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jyri Mustajoki
- Finnish Environment Institute, Latokartanonkaari 11, 00790 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anders Branth Pedersen
- Department of Environmental Science, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
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21
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Casson N, Cameron L, Mauro I, Friesen-Hughes K, Rocque R. Perceptions of the health impacts of climate change among Canadians. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:212. [PMID: 36721132 PMCID: PMC9887551 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15105-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding public perceptions of the health risks of climate change is critical to inform risk communication and support the adoption of adaptive behaviours. In Canada, very few studies have explored public understandings and perceptions of climate impacts on health. The objective of this study was to address this gap by exploring perceptions of the link between climate change and health. METHODS We conducted a survey of Canadians (n = 3,014) to address this objective. The 116-question survey measured prior consideration of the link between climate change and health, affective assessment of climate health impacts, unprompted knowledge of climate health impacts, and concern about a range of impacts. ANOVA tests were used to assess differences among sociodemographic groups. RESULTS Overall, Canadian's have a similar level of concern about health impacts of climate change compared with concern about other impacts (e.g. biophysical, economic, and national security). Among health-related impacts, respondents were more concerned about impacts on water, food and air quality, compared with impacts on mental health, infectious diseases and heat-related illnesses. There were differences among sociodemographic groups; women were significantly more concerned than men about all of the health-related impacts; respondents with a high school level of education were significantly less concerned about all health-related impacts compared with respondents with more education; and respondents on the political left were more concerned with those in the political centre, who were more concerned than those on the political right. CONCLUSION There is emerging literature suggesting that framing communication around climate change in terms of the health risks it poses may increase perceptions of the proximity of the risks. These results suggest that it is important to be specific in the types of health risks that are communicated, and to consider the concerns of the target sociodemographic groups. The differential knowledge, awareness, and concern of climate health impacts across segments of the Canadian population can inform targeted communication and engagement to build broader support for adaptation and mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora Casson
- Prairie Climate Centre, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave, R3B 2E9, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
| | - Laura Cameron
- grid.267457.50000 0001 1703 4731Prairie Climate Centre, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave, R3B 2E9 Winnipeg, MB Canada
| | - Ian Mauro
- grid.267457.50000 0001 1703 4731Prairie Climate Centre, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave, R3B 2E9 Winnipeg, MB Canada
| | - Karl Friesen-Hughes
- grid.267457.50000 0001 1703 4731Prairie Climate Centre, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave, R3B 2E9 Winnipeg, MB Canada
| | - Rhéa Rocque
- grid.267457.50000 0001 1703 4731Prairie Climate Centre, University of Winnipeg, 515 Portage Ave, R3B 2E9 Winnipeg, MB Canada
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22
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Romm KF, Wang Y, Ma Y, Wysota CN, Blank MD, Huebner DM, Roche KM, Berg CJ. The reciprocal relationships of social norms and risk perceptions to cigarette, e-cigarette, and cannabis use: Cross-lagged panel analyses among US young adults in a longitudinal study. Drug Alcohol Depend 2022; 238:109570. [PMID: 35926300 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2022.109570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Given the distinct and evolving social norms, research on health implications, and regulations regarding cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and cannabis, it is important to understand the interplay between social norms, risk perceptions, and use of these products. METHODS We analyzed 3 waves of longitudinal data (Fall 2018, 2019, 2020) from 3006 young adults (Mage=24.56, 54.8% female, 31.6% sexual minority, 39.6% racial/ethnic minority) from 6 US metropolitan statistical areas. Cross-lagged panel models (CLPMs) examined reciprocal relationships of (a) perceived social norms (i.e., peer use, social acceptability) and risk perceptions (i.e., harm, addictiveness) to (b) number of days of cigarette, e-cigarette, and cannabis use in the past 30 days, respectively. RESULTS At baseline, lifetime and past 30-day use prevalence was: 61.8% and 26.9% for cigarettes, 57.7% and 37.7% for e-cigarettes, and 70.7% and 39.2% for cannabis. Perceived social norms and use of cigarettes and e-cigarettes decreased over time, and risk perceptions increased (except cigarettes showed stable perceived harm). Regarding cannabis, perceived social norms and use increased, yet perceived harm and addictiveness also increased. CLPM indicated that greater perceived social norms predicted greater cigarette, e-cigarette, and cannabis use over time, and vice versa. While greater perceived risk predicted less e-cigarette and cannabis use and vice versa, this did not hold true for cigarettes: use predicted lower perceived risk, but risk perceptions did not predict later use. CONCLUSIONS Tobacco and cannabis intervention and regulatory efforts should address health risks of use, particularly of e-cigarettes and cannabis, as well as denormalizing use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn F Romm
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Yan Ma
- Department of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Christina N Wysota
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Melissa D Blank
- Department of Psychology, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA.
| | - David M Huebner
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Kathleen M Roche
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
| | - Carla J Berg
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA; George Washington Cancer Center, George Washington University, Washington, DC 20052, USA.
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Pritchard AJ, Silk MJ, Carrignon S, Bentley RA, Fefferman NH. How reported outbreak data can shape individual behavior in a social world. J Public Health Policy 2022. [PMID: 35948617 DOI: 10.1057/s41271-022-00357-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Agencies reporting on disease outbreaks face many choices about what to report and the scale of its dissemination. Reporting impacts an epidemic by influencing individual decisions directly, and the social network in which they are made. We simulated a dynamic multiplex network model—with coupled infection and communication layers—to examine behavioral impacts from the nature and scale of epidemiological information reporting. We explored how adherence to protective behaviors (social distancing) can be facilitated through epidemiological reporting, social construction of perceived risk, and local monitoring of direct connections, but eroded via social reassurance. We varied reported information (total active cases, daily new cases, hospitalizations, hospital capacity exceeded, or deaths) at one of two scales (population level or community level). Total active and new case reporting at the population level were the most effective approaches, relative to the other reporting approaches. Case reporting, which synergizes with test-trace-and-isolate and vaccination policies, should remain a priority throughout an epidemic.
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Garfin DR, Holman EA, Fischhoff B, Wong-Parodi G, Silver RC. Media exposure, risk perceptions, and fear: Americans' behavioral responses to the Ebola public health crisis. Int J Disaster Risk Reduct 2022; 77:103059. [PMID: 37275557 PMCID: PMC10237114 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdrr.2022.103059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We examined media exposure, psychological fear and worry, perceptions of risk, and health protective behaviors surrounding the 2014 Ebola virus outbreak in a probability-based, representative, national sample of Americans (N = 3447). Structural equation models examined relationships between amount (hours/day) and content (e.g., graphic images of dead bodies) of media exposure and counts of self-reported health protective behaviors that participants performed or would perform if Ebola spread to their community. Ebola-related risk perceptions and fear and worry were potential mediators. Greater total hours and more graphic media exposure positively correlated with more fear and worry; greater total hours of media exposure also positively correlated with higher perceived risk. Higher risk perceptions were associated with more health protective behaviors performed and intended. Greater fear and worry were associated with more behaviors performed. Amount and content of media exposure exhibited indirect effects on behaviors performed; amount of media exposure had indirect effects on intentions. Media may help promote health protective behaviors during public health threats; the amount and content should be congruent with threat to minimize distress and maximize resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana Rose Garfin
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - E. Alison Holman
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
| | - Baruch Fischhoff
- Department of Engineering and Public Policy and Institute for Politics and Strategy, Carnegie Mellon University, USA
| | - Gabrielle Wong-Parodi
- Department of Earth System Science and Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, USA
| | - Roxane Cohen Silver
- Program in Public Health, University of California, Irvine, USA
- Department of Psychological Science, University of California, Irvine, USA
- School of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, USA
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Oyenubi A, Kim AW, Kollamparambil U. COVID-19 risk perceptions and depressive symptoms in South Africa: Causal evidence in a longitudinal and nationally representative sample. J Affect Disord 2022; 308:616-622. [PMID: 35429537 PMCID: PMC9007986 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.04.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies worldwide have highlighted the acute and long-term depressive impacts of psychosocial stressors due to the 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Among the wide range of risk factors for depression that transpired during pandemic, greater perceptions of individual vulnerability to the COVID-19 have emerged as a major predictor of increased depressive risk and severity in adults. METHODS We estimated the extent to which COVID-19 risk perceptions affected adult depressive symptoms in a longitudinal, nationally representative sample in South Africa. We used covariate balanced propensity scores to minimize the bias from treatment assignment to estimate average causal effects of COVID-19 risk perceptions. RESULTS The point prevalence of perceived COVID-19 infection risk increased between the third and fifth months of the pandemic, which corresponded with elevations in national COVID-19 infection rates. Approximately 33% of adults met or surpassed the PHQ-2 cut-off score of 2. An increase in perceived risk of COVID-19 infection predicted worse depressive symptoms in adults four months later. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight the widespread mental health burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasize the importance of greater psychological resources and structural changes to promote equitable access to COVID-19 risk mitigation policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeola Oyenubi
- School of Economics and Finance, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Andrew Wooyoung Kim
- SAMRC/Wits Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; Department of Anthropology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, United States.
| | - Uma Kollamparambil
- School of Economics and Finance, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Boardman F, Clark C. 'We're kind of like genetic nomads': Parents' experiences of biographical disruption and uncertainty following in/conclusive results from newborn cystic fibrosis screening. Soc Sci Med 2022; 301:114972. [PMID: 35430463 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.114972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As whole genome sequencing is being considered as a tool to deliver expanded newborn screening (NBS) globally, the range of equivocal results it could produce are gaining increased attention. For cystic fibrosis (CF) screening, the use of next generation sequencing within existing UK NBS programmes would increase the number of uncertain designations returned within results, including that of Cystic Fibrosis Screen Positive Inconclusive Diagnosis (CFSPID). However, the experiences of families already living with this designation have been under-explored. This study uses in-depth interviews to explore the perspectives of sixteen parents who received positive results from CF NBS, with varying degrees of prognostic un/certainty; parents with a child diagnosed with CF (n = 6), CF carrier status (n = 3) and those with the CFSPID designation (n = 7). The biographically disruptive nature of positive NBS results-regardless of immediate relevance to the child-dominated early experiences of positive results across all groups. For those with CF, biographical reparation involved becoming 'a CF family', underscoring biological kinship bonds and reinforcing familial identity. For those with uncertain results, biographical re-calibration was more complex. Diagnostic and prognostic uncertainty posed a barrier to entry for both the 'CF world' and the 'healthy kid' world, leading parents to attempt to minimise its role, either through rejection, or re-interpretation of their child's result. Other parents, however, experienced biographical reparation more dynamically. The concept of 'genetic nomadism' captures accounts of oscillation between the two worlds; movements that were responsive to evolving health experiences, as well as social, environmental and temporal factors. Through the concept of genetic nomadism, this paper delineates both the productive, as well as divisive, nature of uncertainty for biographical reparation in the aftermath of NBS, as well as the strategies parents use to harness it, in order to successfully navigate the world with a child with an ambiguous genetic future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Boardman
- Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom.
| | - Corinna Clark
- Warwick Medical School, Gibbet Hill Road, Coventry, CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
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Hamiduzzaman M, Siddiquee N, McLaren H, Tareque MI. The COVID-19 risk perceptions, health precautions, and emergency preparedness in older CALD adults in South Australia: A cross-sectional study. Infect Dis Health 2022; 27:149-158. [PMID: 35527217 PMCID: PMC9015960 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2022.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background In Australia, the relationships of cultural contexts with health challenges in older culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) adults during the COVID-19 remain under-investigated. This study explored the older CALD adults’ risk perceptions of COVID-19, and identified demographics and risk perceptions associated with their health precautions and emergency preparation in South Australia. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted. 155 older adults aged 60 years and over from 28 CALD communities completed the surveys. We described demographics, risk perceptions, seven items of health precautions, and five items of emergency preparedness. Data were analyzed in Stata/MP version 13.0. Results Mean sum-score of fear was 7.3 [SD 1.9], signifying that the participants were afraid of being infected with COVID-19. Health precaution items presented a mean sum-score of 24.8, with a compliance in washing and disinfecting hands [M: 4.4], avoiding public places and events [M: 3.9] and transports [M: 3.8], but they did not present high-alignment with staying at home and avoiding meeting at risk population groups. Overall health precautions were positively influenced by ethnicity [Asian β 3.40; 95% CI 1.21, 5.59; African β 5.46; 95% CI 0.76, 10.16]; perceptions of long-term effects [β 1.82; 95% CI 0.65, 2.99]; and fear [β 0.55; 95% CI 0.08, 1.01]. Mean sum-score of emergency preparedness was 14.9, which indicated the participants’ responses, on average, did not prevent them from buying large quantities and storing essential goods. Conclusion A pandemic-related response plan is needed to ensure all older CALD adults receive and follow advice and care appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Hamiduzzaman
- The University of Newcastle Department of Rural Health, University of Newcastle, Taree, 2430 Australia; Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Gold Coast, NSW, 4225, Australia.
| | - Noore Siddiquee
- College of Business, Government & Law, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, 5042, Australia.
| | - Helen McLaren
- College of Education, Psychology and Social Work, Flinders University, Adelaide, 5042, Australia.
| | - Md Ismail Tareque
- Department of Population Science and Human Resource Development, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, 6205, Bangladesh.
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Cameron LD, Fleszar-Pavlović SE, Yepez M, Manzo RD, Brown PM. Beliefs about marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding held by residents of a Latino-majority, rural region of California. J Behav Med 2022; 45:544-557. [PMID: 35378643 PMCID: PMC9304043 DOI: 10.1007/s10865-022-00299-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Marijuana use among pregnant and breastfeeding women is on the rise and carries risks for infant health and well-being. Decisions to use marijuana while pregnant and breastfeeding are motivated by beliefs that use poses minimal risk to infants and offers benefits to maternal users. Misperceptions and usage trend higher among disadvantaged populations. This study surveyed 401 community residents on beliefs about risks and benefits of marijuana use by pregnant and breastfeeding women. The study utilized techniques to enhance recruitment of Latino and disadvantaged residents of rural communities in California, a state where recreational marijuana use is legal. Analyses revealed substantial endorsement of beliefs about benefits and low risks of marijuana use while pregnant and breastfeeding, many of which run counter to current evidence. Misperceptions were particularly prevalent for cannabis users and male respondents. Trends in valid beliefs, while modest, were higher for Latinos and parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda D Cameron
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California Merced, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, 95343, USA.
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, CA, USA.
| | - Sara E Fleszar-Pavlović
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California Merced, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Marisela Yepez
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California Merced, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, 95343, USA
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Rosa D Manzo
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Paul M Brown
- Health Sciences Research Institute, University of California, Merced, CA, USA
- Department of Public Health, University of California, Merced, CA, USA
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Mecit A, Shrum LJ, Lowrey TM. COVID-19 is Feminine: Grammatical Gender Influences Danger Perceptions and Precautionary Behavioral Intentions by Activating Gender Stereotypes. J Consum Psychol 2022; 32:316-325. [PMID: 34226812 PMCID: PMC8242910 DOI: 10.1002/jcpy.1257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Gendered languages assign masculine and feminine grammatical gender to all nouns, including nonhuman entities. In French and Spanish, the name of the disease resulting from the virus (COVID-19) is grammatically feminine, whereas the virus that causes the disease (coronavirus) is masculine. In this research, we test whether the grammatical gender mark affects judgments. In a series of experiments with French and Spanish speakers, we show that grammatical gender affects virus-related judgments consistent with gender stereotypes: feminine- (vs. masculine-) marked terms for the virus lead individuals to assign lower stereotypical masculine characteristics to the virus, which in turn reduces their danger perceptions. The effect generalizes to precautionary consumer behavior intentions (avoiding restaurants, movies, public transportation, etc.) as well as to other diseases and is moderated by individual differences in chronic gender stereotyping. These effects occur even though the grammatical gender assignment is semantically arbitrary.
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30
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Nowak SA, Parker AM, Gidengil CA, Richardson A, Walsh M, Kennedy D, Vardavas R. Reciprocal relationships among influenza experiences, perceptions, and behavior: Results from a national, longitudinal survey of United States adults. Soc Sci Med 2022; 296:114693. [PMID: 35086022 PMCID: PMC8936068 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objective was to model the reciprocal relationships of perceived risk of contracting influenza with and without influenza vaccination, vaccination behavior, and reported influenza illness. METHODS We fit structural equation models to data from a longitudinal survey of adults in the United States collected through the RAND American Life Panel. Data come from fall and spring surveys fielded before and after each of 3 influenza seasons, 2016/2017, 2017/2018, and 2018/2019, for a total of 6 waves. RESULTS As expected, reported influenza experience was associated with increased perceived influenza risk in subsequent survey waves. Furthermore, perceived risk was associated with subsequent vaccination behavior, such that vaccination was more common for those with higher perceived unvaccinated influenza risk and lower perceived vaccinated influenza risk. Perhaps surprisingly, both elements of perceived risk were also associated with a greater likelihood of subsequent reported influenza illness. This malleability in illness reports may reflect uncertainty, as more respondents reported being sick but being unsure about whether they had influenza than reported certainty that they had influenza. CONCLUSIONS Interventions that influence perceptions about past experience with influenza, including increased testing and informational campaigns about influenza symptoms, could have unanticipated impacts on perceptions of influenza vaccination and vaccination behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Nowak
- Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Burlington, VT
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Sæbø G, Lund I. Public support for further regulating smoking, snus and e-cigarettes in Norway, and its associations with risk perceptions and tobacco use. Int J Drug Policy 2022; 101:103559. [PMID: 34952281 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2021.103559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Public support is an indication of the legitimacy of governmental tobacco interventions. Little is known about what it is that shapes the support for various tobacco policy measures. We examine whether there are differences in public support for new measures against smoking, snus, and e-cigarettes in Norway, and whether public support is associated with user status and perceptions of the products' harm potential. DATA AND METHODS In December 2017, 4,002 people aged between 16 and 89 answered a web-based questionnaire. The sample was randomly drawn from Norstat's web panel, and pre-stratified by gender, age, region, and education in order to obtain an approximate country-representative sample. Respondents were asked to indicate their support for eight possible future measures to further restrict accessibility of tobacco (asked separately with regard to smoking tobacco, snus and e-cigarettes respectively), on a five-point scale from 1 = 'no support' to 5 = 'full support'. We utilized means and t-tests to address differences in support between measures. We then constructed sum scores to assess the total support for regulating each tobacco product and subjected these indexes to linear regression analyses, controlling for background variables. RESULTS For six of the eight proposed measures, public opinion is less supportive of e-cigarette regulations than of similar regulations for snus and, especially, smoking tobacco. In all three regression models, significant associations with risk perception, user status and gender were maintained after multiple controls. The associations with risk perceptions were stronger for support of snus and e-cigarette regulation than for smoking tobacco. CONCLUSION Overall, these findings illustrate the key role of risk perceptions in forming public opinions regarding tobacco-preventive regulations and underline the importance of information to ensure that population risk perceptions are accurate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunnar Sæbø
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), P.O. Box 222, Skøyen, N-0213 Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ingeborg Lund
- Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drugs, Norwegian Institute of Public Health (NIPH), P.O. Box 222, Skøyen, N-0213 Oslo, Norway
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Ejaz M, Ekström AM, Ahmed A, Haroon A, Ali D, Ali TS, Salazar M. Human Papillomavirus associated prevention: knowledge, attitudes, and perceived risks among men who have sex with men and transgender women in Pakistan: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:378. [PMID: 35193544 PMCID: PMC8864907 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-022-12775-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender individuals are at higher risk of genital warts and anal cancer due to sexually transmitted human papillomavirus infection. This study explores MSM and transgender women's perceptions of Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV prevention strategies (screening and vaccination) in Pakistan. DESIGN A qualitative study using focus group discussions (FGD) with self-identified MSM, male sex workers and transgender women were conducted between March 2019 to August 2019 in Karachi, Pakistan. METHODS Participants were recruited from community-based organization (CBO) working for MSM and transgender women. A total of 38 men and 10 transgender women took part in 6 FGDs. Discussions were recorded, translated, transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Three themes were identified from the emerging analysis. These are, 1) Knowledge and risk perceptions about STIs and HPV, 2) Beliefs and attitudes towards HPV prevention, 3) Participant's recommendations for HPV vaccination and anal Pap screening. Participants described lack of knowledge of HPV and its health consequences as HIV is the only focus of attention of the government and the local CBOs. None of participants had heard about HPV prevention including vaccination and anal Pap screening for men but expressed a positive attitude towards prevention. Genital warts and anal cancer were perceived as severe potential consequences of a known risk behaviors. All participants stated they would be interested in taking an HPV vaccine but acknowledged that the provision of services for sexually transmitted infections (STI) are inadequate to meet the needs of key populations and are not prioritized by the government. The main perceived barriers to access HPV prevention included cost and challenges to access public health care services or openly discussing one's sexual orientation with health care providers. Participants generally preferred the CBO for more professional, unbiased staff attitudes that respect patients' integrity, confidentiality and privacy. Most participants thought that in case the government is non-cooperative, CBOs should work in the interest of HPV eradication and generate funds through international funding. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study can help public health policy and researchers to understand this minority's perspective on HPV prevention. Given the low level of knowledge about HPV infection and its negative health consequences there is a need of HPV education combined with STI education and awareness through HPV brochures to educate the target population effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muslima Ejaz
- Department of Global Public Health Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden. .,Department of Community Health Sciences, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Anna Mia Ekström
- Department of Global Public Health Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alyan Ahmed
- Department of Community Health Sciences, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Aymen Haroon
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
| | - Dania Ali
- Department of Community Health Sciences, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tazeen Saeed Ali
- Department of Community Health Sciences, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan.,School of Nursing, the Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mariano Salazar
- Department of Global Public Health Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Reed-Thryselius S, Fuss L, Rausch D. The Relationships Between Socioeconomic Status, COVID-19 Risk Perceptions, and the Adoption of Protective Measures in a Mid-Western City in the United States. J Community Health 2022. [PMID: 35129800 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-022-01070-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
An individual's perception of risk plays an influential role in the behaviors they engage in, which could reduce or increase exposure or transmission of a certain disease. Since risk perceptions vary by social identities (e.g., gender, race/ethnicity, age) they are believed to influence the interpretation and likelihood of following guidance from risk-communication efforts. This study aims to understand how COVID-19 risk perceptions vary by social identity (with an emphasis upon socioeconomic factors), how such identities influence behavior adoption through risk-communication pathways, and how findings can be practically applied in messaging. Previous studies have investigated the role of social factors on risk perceptions, but SES has not been modeled as the main factor. Guided by the Health Belief Model and Social Determinant of Health Frameworks, findings from our 326 participants suggest those with high-risk COVID-19 perceptions identified as higher income and held more advanced educational degrees, suggesting a positive relationship between risk perceptions and SES. Individuals with high-risk perceptions more frequently reported practicing protective behaviors against COVID-19 and reported greater severity, susceptibility, barriers, benefits, trust, confidence, and health literacy in adopting behavior changes against the virus. When applying such findings to create a local risk-communication plan (logic model), it was found that messaging should be culturally relevant, in-plain language, and consistent to improve health literacy. In addition to using the most trusted and frequently used communication sources self-identified by residents, we recommend uniting trusted formal and informal community leaders to provide information in diverse pathways and formats.
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Herbec A, Brown J, Jackson SE, Kale D, Zatoński M, Garnett C, Chadborn T, Shahab L. Perceived risk factors for severe Covid-19 symptoms and their association with health behaviours: Findings from the HEBECO study. Acta Psychol (Amst) 2022; 222:103458. [PMID: 34933210 PMCID: PMC8639445 DOI: 10.1016/j.actpsy.2021.103458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk perceptions are important influences on health behaviours. We used descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression models to assess cross-sectionally risk perceptions for severe Covid-19 symptoms and their health behaviour correlates among 2206 UK adults from the HEBECO study. The great majority (89-99%) classified age 70+, having comorbidities, being a key worker, overweight, and from an ethnic minority as increasing the risk. People were less sure about alcohol drinking, vaping, and nicotine replacement therapy use (17.4-29.5% responding 'don't know'). Relative to those who did not, those who engaged in the following behaviours had higher odds of classifying these behaviours as (i) decreasing the risk: smoking cigarettes (adjusted odds ratios, aORs, 95% CI = 2.26, 1.39-3.37), and using e-cigarettes (aORs = 5.80, 3.25-10.34); (ii) having no impact: smoking cigarettes (1.98; 1.42-2.76), using e-cigarettes (aORs = 2.63, 1.96-3.50), drinking alcohol (aORs = 1.75, 1.31-2.33); and lower odds of classifying these as increasing the risk: smoking cigarettes (aORs: 0.43, 0.32-0.56), using e-cigarettes (aORs = 0.25, 0.18-0.35). Similarly, eating more fruit and vegetables was associated with classifying unhealthy diet as 'increasing risk' (aOR = 1.37, 1.12-1.69), and exercising more with classifying regular physical activity as 'decreasing risk' (aOR = 2.42, 1.75-3.34). Risk perceptions for severe Covid-19 among UK adults were lower for their own health behaviours, evidencing optimism bias. These risk perceptions may form barriers to changing people's own unhealthy behaviours, make them less responsive to interventions that refer to the risk of Covid-19 as a motivating factor, and exacerbate inequalities in health behaviours and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Herbec
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, UCL, UK; Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, UCL, UK; Behavioural Insights, Public Health England, UK.
| | - Jamie Brown
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, UCL, UK
| | | | - Dimitra Kale
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, UCL, UK
| | - Mateusz Zatoński
- Institute - European Observatory of Health Inequalities, Calisia University, Kalisz, Poland; Tobacco Control Research Group, Department for Health, University of Bath, UK
| | | | | | - Lion Shahab
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, UCL, UK
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Mallick B, Rogers KG, Sultana Z. In harm's way: Non-migration decisions of people at risk of slow-onset coastal hazards in Bangladesh. Ambio 2022; 51:114-134. [PMID: 33825159 PMCID: PMC8651874 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-021-01552-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 12/01/2020] [Accepted: 03/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Non-migration is an adaptive strategy that has received little attention in environmental migration studies. We explore the leveraging factors of non-migration decisions of communities at risk in coastal Bangladesh, where exposure to both rapid- and slow-onset natural disasters is high. We apply the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) to empirical data and assess how threat perception and coping appraisal influences migration decisions in farming communities suffering from salinization of cropland. This study consists of data collected through quantitative household surveys (n = 200) and semi-structured interviews from four villages in southwest coastal Bangladesh. Results indicate that most respondents are unwilling to migrate, despite better economic conditions and reduced environmental risk in other locations. Land ownership, social connectedness, and household economic strength are the strongest predictors of non-migration decisions. This study is the first to use the PMT to understand migration-related behaviour and the findings are relevant for policy planning in vulnerable regions where exposure to climate-related risks is high but populations are choosing to remain in place.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bishawjit Mallick
- CU Population Center Institute of Behavioural Science, University of Colorado Boulder Campus, Boulder, CO 80309 USA
- Chair of Environmental Development and Risk Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Technische Universität Dresden, 01217 Dresden, Germany
| | - Kimberly G. Rogers
- Integrated Coastal Programs, East Carolina University, 850 NC 345 Wanchese, Greenville, NC 27981 USA
| | - Zakia Sultana
- Department of Environmental Science and Disaster Management, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University, Gopalganj, 8100 Bangladesh
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Nyman AL, Spears CA, Churchill V, Do VV, Henderson KC, Massey ZB, Reynolds RM, Huang J. Associations between COVID-19 risk perceptions and smoking and quitting behavior among U.S. adults. Addict Behav Rep 2021; 14:100394. [PMID: 34869823 PMCID: PMC8626346 DOI: 10.1016/j.abrep.2021.100394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Smokers are more likely to think smoking increases risk of COVID-19 severity than susceptibility. Perceiving risk of COVID-19 severity is associated with readiness to quit and quit attempts. Perceiving risk of COVID-19 severity is also linked with both smoking increases and decreases. Greater psychological distress is associated with changes in smoking and quitting behavior.
Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic may impact cigarette smokers’ behaviors. Among smokers, perceptions about the risks of contracting COVID-19 and the severity of COVID-19 illness likely vary, and perceptions may be associated with individual smoking behavior. Our study measured smokers’ perceptions of COVID-19 risks and their association with smoking and quitting outcomes. Methods A sample of 1,223 U.S. adult cigarette smokers participated in an online survey in October-November 2020 to assess their COVID-19-related risk perceptions and changes in smoking, readiness to quit, and quit attempts during the COVID-19 pandemic. Results More smokers believed smoking could increase the severity of COVID-19 (43.6%, 95% CI: 40.1, 47.3) than believed smoking makes them more susceptible to COVID-19 (20.0%, 95% CI: 17.2, 23.0.). While there were no associations between perceptions of COVID-19 susceptibility and smoking behaviors or intentions, perceptions of greater smoking-related COVID-19 severity were associated with both higher likelihood of smoking increases (aOR: 2.16, 95% CI: 1.19, 3.93) and greater readiness to quit smoking (aOR: 1.65, 95% CI: 1.18, 2.30). Greater perceptions of general COVID-19 severity were associated with higher likelihood of smoking reductions (aOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.02, 1.22), greater readiness to quit smoking (aOR: 1.14, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.22), and higher likelihood of making a quit attempt (aOR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.22). Conclusions Smokers’ perceptions about COVID-19 severity are related to their smoking behavior and likelihood of making a quit attempt. Providing smokers with accurate information on the relationship between smoking and the severity of COVID-19 may alter smoking behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Nyman
- Georgia State University, School of Public Health, USA
| | - Claire A Spears
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, USA
| | | | - Vuong V Do
- Georgia State University, School of Public Health, USA
| | - Katherine C Henderson
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, USA
| | - Zachary B Massey
- Strategic Communication, School of Journalism, University of Missouri, USA
| | | | - Jidong Huang
- Department of Health Policy & Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Georgia State University, USA
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Yelton B, Lead JR, Adams SA, Brandt HM, Kulkarni S, Lewis KR, Fedrick D, Ureda JR, Friedman DB. How Do African-American Community Members' Perceptions About Environmental Risks of Breast Cancer Compare with the Current State of the Science? J Cancer Educ 2021; 36:1193-1200. [PMID: 32314309 PMCID: PMC7572772 DOI: 10.1007/s13187-020-01748-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
African-American (AA) women experience higher mortality from breast cancer than any other racial group. Understanding community-held perceptions of environmental contaminants as risk factors for breast cancer can inform the development of tailored prevention and education efforts for improve health outcomes. Six focus groups were conducted with AA participants in two counties in South Carolina, and themes were identified using open and axial coding. Perceived environmental risks for breast cancer most frequently discussed by participants were compared to findings from published systematic reviews. Frequently discussed environmental risk factors by participants were deodorants containing aluminum, plastics, pesticides, and air and water pollution. While perceptions of aluminum and air pollution as risk factors did not align with the state of the science, perceived risk factors of chemicals in plastics and pesticides were found to be in alignment. There is some congruence between perceived environmental risks for breast cancer within the AA community and the current state of the science; however, there is a need to communicate information that reflects current science regarding commonly held misconceptions. Development of evidence-based, clear, and culturally appropriate messaging that reflects the current state of the science is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brooks Yelton
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- College of Social Work, University of South Carolina, 1512 Pendleton Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Jamie R Lead
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 921 Assembly St, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Center for Environmental Nanoscience and Risk, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 921 Assembly St, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Swann Arp Adams
- Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- College of Nursing, University of South Carolina, 1601 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Statewide Cancer Prevention and Control Program, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Heather M Brandt
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
- Statewide Cancer Prevention and Control Program, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Shibani Kulkarni
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Kaleea R Lewis
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Delores Fedrick
- Chester County Literacy Council, 109 Ella Street, Chester, SC, 29706, USA
| | - John R Ureda
- , Insights Consulting, Inc., 2728 Wilmot Ave, Columbia, SC, 29205, USA
| | - Daniela B Friedman
- Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior, University of South Carolina, Arnold School of Public Health, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
- Statewide Cancer Prevention and Control Program, University of South Carolina, 915 Greene Street, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA.
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North C, Li X, Grossberg LA, Loukas A. A one year prospective examination of risk factors for pod-vape use among young adults. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 229:109141. [PMID: 34768141 PMCID: PMC8665107 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adults have the highest prevalence of pod-vape use, compared to adolescents and older adults. Despite the increased use of pod-vapes among young adults, very few studies have explored the determinants associated with pod-vape use. PURPOSE The purpose of the current study was to examine the roles of social norms and risk perceptions in subsequent pod-vape use one year later among a cohort of 21-34-year-old young adults. METHOD Participants were 3543 young adults from the last two waves (spring 2018 and 2019) of the Marketing and Promotions across Colleges in Texas project (M-PACT). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to examine the role of social norms and risk perceptions on subsequent pod-vape use one year later. RESULTS The prevalence of current pod-vape use in the present sample increased by 139.3% between 2018 and 2019. The social norm variables of close friends' pod-vape use and inclination to date someone that uses pod-vapes, but not social acceptability of pod-vapes, predicted subsequent pod-vape use one year later. Neither of the risk perception variables predicted subsequent pod-vape use. CONCLUSION The current study highlights the importance of social norms as predictors of subsequent pod-vape use among older young adults (21-34 years old). The rise in pod-vape use indicates that preventative efforts that target young adults are warranted, especially those that consider the role of peers in pod-vape use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alexandra Loukas
- Department of Kinesiology & Health Education, College of Education, The University of Texas at Austin, USA.
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Zhang F, Shih SF, Harapan H, Rajamoorthy Y, Chang HY, Singh A, Lu Y, Wagner AL. Changes in COVID-19 risk perceptions: methods of an internet survey conducted in six countries. BMC Res Notes 2021; 14:428. [PMID: 34823587 PMCID: PMC8613724 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-021-05846-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives This study assessed changes in behaviors/attitudes related to the COVID-19. With the understanding that behaviors and vaccine decision-making could contribute to global spread of infectious diseases, this study collected several waves of internet-based surveys from individuals in the United States, mainland China, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India. The aims of this study were to (1) characterize the relationship between the epidemiology of disease and changes over time in risk perceptions, knowledge, and attitudes towards hygienic behaviors; (2) examine if risk perceptions affect acceptance of less-than-ideal vaccines; and (3) contrast adherence to public health recommendations across countries which have had different governmental responses to the outbreak. Data description We conducted cross-sectional online surveys in six countries from March 2020 to April 2021. By the end of June 2021, there will be six waves of surveys for the United States and China, and four waves for the rest of countries. There are common sets of questions for all countries, however, some questions were adapted to reflect local situations and some questions were designed intentionally for specific countries to capture different COVID-19 mitigation actions. Participants were asked about their adherence towards countermeasures, risk perceptions, and acceptance of a hypothetical vaccine for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Shu-Fang Shih
- Department of Health Administration, College of Health Professions, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, 23298, USA
| | - Harapan Harapan
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia.,Tropical Disease Centre, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia.,Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia
| | - Yogambigai Rajamoorthy
- Department of Economics, Faculty of Accountancy and Management, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Sungai Long Campus, Jalan Sungai Long, Cheras, 43000, Kajang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hao-Yuan Chang
- School of Nursing, College of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan.,Department of Nursing, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, 10051, Taiwan
| | - Awnish Singh
- National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation Secretariat, National Institute of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, 110067, India
| | - Yihan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety (Ministry of Education), Fudan University School of Public Health, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Abram L Wagner
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
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Abstract
Perceiving ambiguity in health information-that is, uncertainty elicited from believing information lacks credibility, reliability, or adequacy-is typically associated with pessimistic appraisals (e.g., high perceived disease risk) and behavioral avoidance. We examined the effect of ambiguous health information about COVID-19 on health cognitions and vaccination intentions, and tested a "normalized-uncertainty" intervention. Two studies with identical methodology (online adult sample: n = 299, undergraduate sample: n = 150) were conducted in March to April 2020. Participants were randomly assigned to read one of three health messages about COVID-19 that emphasized what was currently unknown (ambiguity condition), what was currently unknown but that scientific uncertainty is expected (intervention condition), or what was currently known (control condition). The ambiguity condition led to greater perceived ambiguity than the control condition and perceived ambiguity in the intervention condition was comparable to the ambiguity condition. There were few differences in health cognitions, and no differences in vaccination intentions, when examining pairwise comparisons across the three conditions. Correlational analyses collapsing across condition indicated evidence of pessimistic appraisal but not behavioral avoidance among individuals who perceived greater ambiguity. Future research should examine longer, more detailed normalized-uncertainty interventions.
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Park D, Lee OE, Park J, Minnick D. Substance use disorders among adults who are deaf or hard of hearing in the United States. Drug Alcohol Depend 2021; 228:109106. [PMID: 34610517 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.109106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2021] [Revised: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been limited research on substance use disorders (SUDs) among individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing (DHH). This study explored associations among activities of daily living, instrumental activities of daily living, major depressive episode, risk perceptions for substance use, religiosity, and past-year SUDs within the DHH population. METHODS Data was drawn from the 2015-2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (N = 214,505) to compare rates of past-year SUDs between DHH (weighted % = 5.4) and non-DHH populations. SUD measures included were past-year alcohol, marijuana, pain reliever, and illicit drug use disorders. RESULTS SUDs are more prevalent among the DHH population than the non-DHH population. When adjusted for sociodemographic variables, DHH adults were more likely to report experiencing all four types of measured SUDs. Significant associations were also found between all four measured SUDs and disability status, major depressive episodes, and perception of risk. An association between regular religious service attendance and alcohol, marijuana, or illicit drug use disorders was also identified, as well as an association between peer religiosity and marijuana use disorders. CONCLUSION Given the high prevalence of SUDs and limited understanding of the mechanisms associated with the SUDs within the DHH population, more research is needed to address these issues.
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Barrios JM, Hochberg YV. Risk perceptions and politics: Evidence from the COVID-19 pandemic. J financ econ 2021; 142:862-879. [PMID: 34658487 PMCID: PMC8502491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfineco.2021.05.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Politics may color interpretations of facts, and thus perceptions of risk. We find that a higher share of Trump voters in a county is associated with lower perceptions of risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. Controlling for COVID-19 case counts and deaths, as Trump's vote share rises in the local area, individuals search less for information on the virus and its potential economic impacts, and engage in fewer visits to non-essential businesses. Our results suggest that politics and the media may play an important role in determining the formation of risk perceptions, and may therefore affect both economic and health-related reactions to unanticipated health crises.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yael V Hochberg
- Rice University and NBER, 6100 Main St. MS-531, Houston, United States
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Borșan SD, Trif SR, Mihalca AD. Recreational behaviour, risk perceptions, and protective practices against ticks: a cross-sectional comparative study before and during the lockdown enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:423. [PMID: 34425905 PMCID: PMC8381130 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04944-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Gaining insight into the risk perceptions and the knowledge evolution of the public about emerging or changing health risks is vital for the improvement of health promotion activities. Currently, scientific evidence regarding the attitudes of the Romanian public towards ticks is scanty. This study aimed to identify how the lockdown enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania impacted the recreational behaviour, risk perceptions, and protective practices of the Romanian population regarding ticks. Methods A cross-sectional, nationwide web-based questionnaire was designed and distributed via social media to evaluate if, and how, the COVID-19 lockdown impacted the behaviour of the Romanian public concerning ticks. The survey was available online from 6 May until 15 May 2020, which marked the last day of the travel ban in Romania. The collected data were processed by applying both uni- and multivariate methods. Results Respondents reported a higher frequency of finding ticks on themselves and their dogs during the lockdown. Bathing/showering and checking the body for ticks were the two most used protective behaviours both before and during the lockdown. Nevertheless, an overall lower usage rate of protective measures was registered during the lockdown. Almost all dog owners used a form of ectoparasite control for their dogs, and only three stopped due to lockdown-associated reasons. Respondent characteristics that were found to be positively associated with risk perceptions were being female and living in peri-urban/suburban/rural environments. Conclusions Despite spending less time outdoors during the lockdown, more respondents reported finding ticks on themselves or their dogs. Changes in the preferences for recreational locations, rates of protective practices usage, amount of time spent in specific areas, or tick seasonal activity might have contributed to this outcome. Concerning risk groups, men of all ages, senior citizens, and rural inhabitants should be targeted by the relevant Romanian authorities when promoting local or nationwide tick awareness campaigns. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04944-7.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia-Diana Borșan
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Sabina Ramona Trif
- Department of Psychology, "Babeş-Bolyai" University, 37 Republicii Street, 4300015, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Andrei Daniel Mihalca
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, 3-5 Mănăștur Street, 400372, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Faisal M, Chunping X, Abbas A, Raza MH, Akhtar S, Ajmal MA, Ali A. Do risk perceptions and constraints influence the adoption of climate change practices among small livestock herders in Punjab, Pakistan? Environ Sci Pollut Res Int 2021; 28:43777-43791. [PMID: 33840020 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-13771-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is severely damaging the agricultural system of many food producing regions worldwide. Small/subsistent livestock herders are the most vulnerable and less resilient group towards climatic disasters within South Asian region including Pakistan. The adoption of climate-smart practices would be beneficial for small livestock herders because of its potential to ensure food security, improve income, and sustain development simultaneously. The purpose of this paper is to investigate factors influencing small livestock herders' adaptation decisions towards changing climate by conducting field-based research. We intend to understand how institutional factors, risk perceptions, adaptations, and personal constraints affect the adaptation decisions related to climate change mitigation and choice of adaptation strategies. For this purpose, a primary data set of 405 small livestock herders from Punjab, Pakistan was used. The regression results of empirical models reveal the probability of adopting specific climate change strategies. The study results showed that zero adaptation (non-adoption) to climate change is higher when there is low literacy rate, less experience, nuclear family system, lack of institutional services, and low level of risk perception about climate change. The marginal outcome showed that the livestock herders with positive risk perception and access to the institutional services do participate more frequently in a higher number of adaptations options for economic and ecological benefits. Therefore, it is suggested that government and other development actors should strengthen institutions for trust building among local community groups and to reduce individuals' risks. Moreover, effective insurance schemes could facilitate small livestock herders to keep less but more productive livestock. The study recommends building viable and potential weather index insurance schemes which will result meaningful marginal scale benefits for smallholders. Finally, the results of major constraints suggest that it is necessary to provide awareness of climatic vulnerabilities, timely information delivery, and adequate financial facilities to offset resource constraints of livestock herders in order to adopt sustainable strategies at their farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Faisal
- College of Economics and Management, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia Chunping
- College of Economics and Management, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China.
| | - Azhar Abbas
- Institute of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Haseeb Raza
- Institute of Business Management Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, 38000, Pakistan
| | - Shoaib Akhtar
- Center of Excellence for Olive Research & Training (CEFORT), Barani Agriculture Research Institute (BARI), Chakwal, Pakistan
| | | | - Abdelrahman Ali
- College of Economics and Management, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, Hubei Province, People's Republic of China
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Fayoum University, Fayoum, 63514, Egypt
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Rahimi E, Shabanpour R, Shamshiripour A, Kouros Mohammadian A. Perceived risk of using shared mobility services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Transp Res Part F Traffic Psychol Behav 2021; 81:271-281. [PMID: 36567796 PMCID: PMC9761113 DOI: 10.1016/j.trf.2021.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused our daily routines to change quickly. The pandemic provokes public fear, resulting in changes in what modes of transport people use to perform their daily activities. It is imperative for transportation authorities to properly identify the different degrees of behavioral change among various social groups. A major factor that can substantially explain individuals' behavioral changes is the personal risk perceptions toward using shared mobility solutions. Thus, this study explores the risk that individuals perceive while using public transit and ridesharing services (as the most widespread forms of shared mobility) during the COVID-19 pandemic. To do so, we designed and implemented a multidimensional travel-behavior survey in the Chicago metropolitan area that comprises socio-demographic information and retrospective questions related to attitudes and travel behavior before and during the pandemic. Utilizing a bivariate ordered probit modeling approach to better account for the potential correlation between unobserved factors, we simultaneously modeled the perceived risk of exposure to the novel coronavirus in case of riding transit and using ridesharing services. A wide range of factors is found to be influential on the perceived risk of using shared mobility services, including the socio-demographic attributes, built environment settings, and the virus spread. Further, our results indicate that the mitigation strategies to increase the ridership of shared mobility services should be adaptive considering the spatial variations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ehsan Rahimi
- Department of Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Ramin Shabanpour
- Department of Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
- College of Computing, Engineering & Construction, University of North Florida, FL, USA
| | - Ali Shamshiripour
- Department of Civil, Materials, and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, IL, USA
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Yao J, Xiao T, Hou S. Risk perceptions and DUI decisions of drivers in different legal environments: New evidence on differential deterrence from a Chinese sample. Accid Anal Prev 2021; 157:106188. [PMID: 34000676 DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2021.106188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Research on the deterrent effects of driving-under-the-influence (DUI) laws has been limited in China, which has criminalized drunk driving since May 2011 yet the effectiveness of this legislation remains unclear. Primary studies are needed to confirm whether government reports of reductions in DUI rates since then can indeed match changes in driver perceptions of DUI risk, and if so, be attributed to what specific components of the DUI legal environments. Based on the classical theory of deterrence and recent advances in differential deterrence, this study adopted a conjoint experiment from a previous US study that simulated the decision-making process of potential drinking drivers, and evaluated how DUI sanctions and enforcement practices contributed differentially to the three components of deterrence (i.e., certainty, swiftness, and severity of punishment). Key individual characteristics and nonlegal factors, as suggested by differential deterrence research to moderate the impact of DUI laws, were also considered. METHODS A Web-based conjoint experiment was conducted on a sample of 109 college students from two major universities in Shenzhen, China. Participants were randomly assigned to blocks of hypothetical scenarios composed of different levels of DUI enforcement and penalties, and asked to choose from a pair of scenarios each time, in which they were more likely to drink and drive. They also answered questions adapted from previous studies that measured key individual factors in relation to differential deterrence, such as informal sanction threat, moral inhibition, and personal and vicarious experiences with punishment. Such individual differences were accounted for in both a conventional two-level mixed logit aggregate model and a Hierarchical Bayes model. RESULTS Consistent with prior findings in Western countries, DUI enforcement intensity, was found to be the strongest deterrent to potential drinking drivers in China. License suspension, as an administrative punishment that can be swiftly implemented, was also effective in deterring the Chinese drivers, who however were much more likely to fear the revocation of their licenses rather than a 6-month suspension only. Meanwhile, they were notably deterred by the possibility of being in jail for 1-3 days, let alone for 1-2 months. Altogether, enforcement, license suspension and jail penalties accounted for more than 75 percent of attribute impact on drivers' decision to drink and drive, whereas fine penalty and license points had almost no effect. On the other hand, nonlegal factors such as informal sanction threat and vicarious experiences were found to have significantly moderated the deterrent effects of DUI laws. CONCLUSIONS Overall, this study quantified the unique effects of perceived certainty, swiftness, and severity of DUI punishment in the Chinese context, and supported the usefulness of conjoint experiments for examining risk perceptions and DUI decisions in different legal environments. It also provided new empirical evidence on differential deterrence and pointed out the need of determining for which subsets of individuals and under what conditions can legal sanctions successfully deter potential offenders. Such research will help researchers and policy makers better understand the role of deterrence, for more effective policy development related to DUI as well as other important traffic safety issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yao
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
| | - Tao Xiao
- College of Mathematics and Statistics, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Shumeng Hou
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Institute of Technology (Shenzhen), Shenzhen, 518055, China.
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Brown R, Coventry L, Pepper G. COVID-19: the relationship between perceptions of risk and behaviours during lockdown. Z Gesundh Wiss 2021; 31:623-633. [PMID: 34007783 PMCID: PMC8118375 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-021-01543-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
AIM Understanding COVID-19 risk perceptions and their impact on behaviour can improve the effectiveness of public health strategies. Prior evidence suggests that, when people perceive uncontrollable risks to their health, they are less likely to engage in healthful behaviour. This article aims to understand the extent to which COVID-19 is perceived as an uncontrollable risk, and to assess whether this perceived risk is associated with health behaviour. SUBJECT AND METHODS We surveyed a nationally representative sample of 496 participants during the first UK lockdown. We assessed perceptions of COVID-19-related risk, self-reported adherence to infection control measures recommended by the UK Government, and general health behaviours. We predicted that increased perceived extrinsic mortality risk (the portion of mortality risk perceived to be uncontrollable) would disincentivise healthy behaviour. RESULTS Perceived threat to life was the most consistent predictor of reported adherence to infection control measures. Perceived extrinsic mortality risk was found to have increased due to the pandemic, and was associated with lower reported adherence to Government advice on diet, physical activity, and smoking. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that health messages that highlight threat to life may be effective in increasing adherence to infection control, but may also lead to a reduction in health-promoting behaviours. We suggest that messages that highlight threat to life should be accompanied by statements of efficacy. Further, messages evoking feelings of concern for others may be effective in promoting compliance with anti-infection measures, without the potential for the unwelcome side-effect of discouraging healthy behaviour. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-021-01543-9.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Brown
- grid.42629.3b0000000121965555Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, College Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST UK
| | - Lynne Coventry
- grid.42629.3b0000000121965555Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, College Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST UK
| | - Gillian Pepper
- grid.42629.3b0000000121965555Psychology Department, Northumbria University, Northumberland Building, College Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 8ST UK
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Alegria KE, Fleszar-Pavlović SE, Ngo DD, Beam A, Halliday DM, Hinojosa BM, Hua J, Johnson AE, McAnally K, McKinley LE, Temourian AA, Song AV. The Role of Risk Perceptions and Affective Consequences in COVID-19 Protective Behaviors. Int J Behav Med 2021; 28:801-807. [PMID: 33834368 PMCID: PMC8032317 DOI: 10.1007/s12529-021-09970-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Slowing the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) requires behavioral changes such as physical distancing (e.g., staying a 6-foot distance from others, avoiding mass gatherings, reducing houseguests), wearing masks, reducing trips to nonessential business establishments, and increasing hand washing. Like other health behaviors, COVID-19 related behaviors may be related to risk representations. Risk representations are the cognitive responses a person holds about illness risk such as, identity (i.e., label/characteristics of risk), cause (i.e., factors causing condition), timeline (i.e., onset/duration of risk), consequences (i.e., intrapersonal/interpersonal outcomes), behavioral efficacy (i.e., if and how the condition can be controlled/treated), and illness risk coherence (i.e., extent to which representations, behaviors, and beliefs are congruent). The current study applies the Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation (CSM-SR) to evaluate how risk representations may relate to COVID-19 protective and risk behaviors. METHODS Participants include 400 workers from Amazon's Mechanical Turk aged ≥ 18 years and US residents. Participants completed an online survey measuring risk representations (B-IPQ) and COVID-19 related behaviors, specifically, physical distancing, hand washing, and shopping frequency. RESULTS Risk coherence, consequences, timeline, emotional representation, and behavioral efficacy were related to risk and protective behaviors. CONCLUSIONS Risk representations vary in their relationship to COVID-19 risk and protective behaviors. Implications include the importance of coherent, targeted, consistent health communication, and effective health policy in mitigating the spread of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie E Alegria
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Sara E Fleszar-Pavlović
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Dalena D Ngo
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Aislinn Beam
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Deanna M Halliday
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Bianca M Hinojosa
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Jacqueline Hua
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Angela E Johnson
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Kaylyn McAnally
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Lauren E McKinley
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Allison A Temourian
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA
| | - Anna V Song
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of California, 5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA, USA.
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Niño M, Harris C, Drawve G, Fitzpatrick KM. Race and ethnicity, gender, and age on perceived threats and fear of COVID-19: Evidence from two national data sources. SSM Popul Health 2021; 13:100717. [PMID: 33344747 PMCID: PMC7733547 DOI: 10.1016/j.ssmph.2020.100717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies find preventative behaviors designed to reduce the number of infections during emerging disease outbreaks are associated with perceived risk of disease susceptibility. Few studies have attempted to identify underlying factors that explain differences in perceptions of risk during an infectious disease outbreak. Drawing from two early waves of American Trends Panel (n=7,441), as well as a National Science Foundation funded, Qualtrics national panel survey from the early stages of the pandemic (n=10,368), we test whether race and ethnicity, gender, and age were associated with six perceived threat and fear outcomes related to COVID-19. Results demonstrate race and ethnicity, gender, and age play a significant role in shaping threat and fear perceptions of COVID-19, but depending on the outcome, relationships vary in direction and magnitude. In some cases, historically marginalized racial and ethnic groups were more likely to report high fear and perceive coronavirus as a major threat to population and individual health, whereas, in others cases, the same marginalized racial and ethnic groups were less likely to perceive coronavirus to be a serious threat to the immune-comprised and the elderly population. We also find women were generally more likely to report high levels of threat and fear of COVID-19. Finally, we observe a clear age difference, whereby adults in older age groups report high-risk perceptions of COVID-19. Findings can inform public health programs designed to educate communities on the benefits of engaging in effective preventative practices during emerging infectious disease outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Niño
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, University of Arkansas 1 University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, AR, USA
| | - Casey Harris
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, University of Arkansas 1 University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, AR, USA
| | - Grant Drawve
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, University of Arkansas 1 University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, AR, USA
| | - Kevin M. Fitzpatrick
- Department of Sociology and Criminology, University of Arkansas 1 University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, AR, USA
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Hult Khazaie D, Stott C, Khan SS. Mass meets mosh: Exploring healthcare professionals' perspectives on social identity processes and health risks at a religious pilgrimage and music festivals. Soc Sci Med 2021; 272:113763. [PMID: 33607415 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The field of mass gathering medicine has tended to focus on physical factors in the aggravation and mitigation of health risks in mass gatherings to the neglect of psychosocial factors. OBJECTIVES This study sought to explore perspectives of healthcare professionals (HCPs) on (1) implications of social identity processes for mass gathering-associated health risks; and (2) how social identity processes can be drawn on to inform and improve healthcare practices and interventions targeted at mitigating health risks in mass gatherings. METHODS Semi-structured interviews, complemented by a brief survey, were conducted with 17 HCPs in the United Kingdom operating at a religious pilgrimage and music festivals. RESULTS The findings from a thematic analysis suggest that HCPs recognise that social identity processes involved in identity enactment in mass gatherings are implicated in health risks. HCPs also perceive value in drawing on social identity processes to inform and improve healthcare practices and interventions in mass gatherings. The findings from the survey corroborate the findings from the interviews. CONCLUSION Taken together, the research highlights avenues for future research and collaboration aimed at developing healthcare practices and interventions informed by the social identity approach for the management of health risks in mass gatherings.
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