Journal of Public Health and Development

Characteristics of mask adherence in low and medium-income countries and high-income countries: Results from round II of the global COVIDiSTRESS survey

Oluwafunsho Adeyemi — 2024-06-11

Many studies have connected mask-wearing during the coronavirus pandemic to various characteristics and beliefs; yet much of this research has been conducted in wealthy countries in the Global North. Performing a secondary analysis of the COVIDiSTRESS survey, conducted online in 137 countries between May 28th and August 29th of 2021, we find that there are important differences in the characteristics related to mask adherence in places the World Bank classifies as low and medium-income countries (LMICs) and high-income countries (HICs). Our findings suggest that: (1) identifying as a woman has a stronger impact on the likelihood of mask adherence in HICs than LMICs; (2) an increase in age only has a positive impact on mask adherence in LMICs; (3) SES (especially higher levels of education) has a much stronger positive impact on mask adherence in LMICs than HICs; (4) while a belief in conspiracy theories has a stronger negative impact in HICs than LMICs, this result is not statistically significant; and (5) acquiring of scientific information on COVID-19 is only positively correlated with an increased likelihood of mask adherence in LMICs. If there is another pandemic, we argue that this shows that research on mask adherence conducted in the Global North should not simply be applied to countries in the Global South.

The impact of digital health interventions on HIV testing uptake among adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Rizka Ayu Setyani — 2024-06-10

The global prevalence of HIV has reached its peak among individuals aged 20 to 39. While digital media has been widely employed for promoting sexual health, its application in boosting HIV testing rates among adolescent remains relatively restricted. This systematic review seeks to gauge the efficacy of digital-driven health education in enhancing HIV testing rates within the youth population. The study was included original studies published in English, quantitative with RCT, involving adolescent that are published from 2013 to 2023. The publications were identified using CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science electronic databases with keywords of adolescent, telemedicine, and HIV testing. We also used the hand-searching method from other systematic review and meta-analysis articles. We did a critical appraisal and found a low-risk bias on four RCT studies. All included articles were coded according to relevant exposures or outcomes and analyzed to assess frequencies. Four studies from the United States, United Kingdom, and China were included in the synthesis. Uptake of HIV testing among adolescent give digital media interventions had a significant difference of 1.90 times compared to the group that did not give digital media intervention (p<0.00001). Digital media intervention significantly increased HIV testing engagement among adolescent. HIV screening programs using digital media are needed to optimize access to HIV testing services.

Suicidal ideation and its associated factors among high school adolescents in Haiphong, Vietnam

Ha Tran Thi Thuy — 2024-05-31

Suicide is a serious and preventable public health issue. This study aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors of suicidal ideation (SI) among high school students. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,270 high school students. The Global School Student Health Survey (GSHS) questionnaire examined SI and related factors. The participant was identified as having SI by the question, “During the past 12 months, did you ever seriously consider suicide ideation?”. Overall, 16.9% of the participants reported having SI during the last year (17.1% males and 16.7% females). Multivariable analysis indicated several factors positively associated with SI: being bullied during the last 30 days (AOR= 2.15, 95%CI: 1.23-3.77), often feeling lonely in the last 12 months (AOR= 1.95, 95%CI: 1.10-3.44), worried and could not sleep at night in the last 12 months (AOR= 4.40, 95%CI: 2.64-7.34), tobacco use in the last 30 days (AOR= 3.76, 95%CI: 1.66-8.54), alcohol use in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.83, 95%CI: 1.26-2.65), no close friends (AOR= 2.03, 95%CI: 1.30-3.17), parents/guardians did not regularly check homework in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.57, 95%CI: 1.09-2.25), parents/guardians did not understand problems and worries of students in the last 30 days (AOR= 3.32, 95%CI: 2.04-5.42) and parents/guardians often displayed disrespect in the last 30 days (AOR= 1.63, 95%CI: 1.13-2.36). SI is widely recognized as a significant predictor of future suicide risk. Therefore, schools, parents, and policymakers need to urgently take measures to prevent deaths from occurring.

Effectiveness of “Duet Me”: a quasi-experimental study assessing the impact of a mobile phone mini-game on enhancing tobacco knowledge among Thai adolescents

Phitchasuda Detboon — 2024-05-31

Tobacco use poses a significant health risk to the Thai population, contributing to serious illnesses such as cancer and lung disease while also increasing the risk of tuberculosis. This six-month quasi-experimental study, conducted in Phrae Province, Thailand, aims to assess the effectiveness of the mobile phone mini-game, “Duet Me,” with its engaging design and HBM alignment in enhancing tobacco knowledge among adolescents. A sample of 99 fifteen-year-olds participated, with the focus on a two-month intervention period and a four-month follow-up. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires. Demographic analysis revealed that the intervention group comprised 51% females, and the comparison group comprised 54% females. Approximately 23.2% of participants reported prior tobacco use. Both groups initiated the study with a low level of knowledge (p-value>0.05). The intervention group exhibited a significant increase in tobacco knowledge at both the two-month post-intervention and four-month follow-up, outperforming the comparison group (p-value<0.05). Repeated measures ANOVA revealed a significant difference in the mean knowledge scores between the two groups over time, supporting the game’s effectiveness (p-value<0.0001). Pairwise comparison confirmed sustainable knowledge improvement in the intervention group (p-value<0.0001). The findings suggest that innovative interventions play a positive role in promoting health education among adolescents, potentially contributing to fostering informed decision-making toward tobacco consumption.

Survey of knowledge and practices of dengue fever prevention related to sociodemographic status: community-based study in Bandung, Indonesia

Agung Sutriyawan — 2024-05-31

Dengue fever has become an endemic in the Bandung city and this disease poses a serious public health threat. This study aimed to examine sociodemographic factors, experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever and their relationship with knowledge and practice of prevention dengue fever among the Bandung City community. This research was considered as a cross-sectional and community-based study. Systematic random sampling was performed, where one participant in every third house that researchers passed by was chosen. Participants involved in this study had met the inclusion criteria, namely age (18 years), local residents, and able to understand the questions. Data was collected using a questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and multivariate logistic regression. Multivariate test results showed high knowledge scores in participants aged over 40 years (OR=30.908, 95% CI 16.490-57.930, P=0.000), participants who had an educational degree (OR=4.028, 95% CI 2.226-7.288, P =0.000), worked as private employees and self-employed (OR=0.235, 95% CI 0.098-0.560, P=0.001 and OR= 0.262, 95% CI 0.107-0.638, P=0.003), had an income of more than IDR 4,000,000 (OR=2.275, 95% CI 1.318-3.928, P=0.003), and had experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever (OR=3.140, 95% CI 1.484-6.640, P=0.003). Meanwhile, dengue fever prevention practice scores were higher in participants aged 25-39 years (OR=18.163, 95% CI 16, 8.056-40.947, P=0.000), who had an educational degree (OR=6.217, 95% CI 3.793-10.191, P =0.000), worked as a housewife (OR=0.286, 95% CI 0.129-0.634, P=0.002), had experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever (OR=0.271, 95% CI 0.144-0.510, P=0.023), and had a high knowledge score (OR=4.037, 95% CI 2.201-7.406, P=0.000). Dengue fever prevention practices are closely related to knowledge scores; therefore, dengue fever prevention puts up the focus to increasing knowledge and effective education programs

Barriers to dietary adherence among Vietnamese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: a hospital-based cross-sectional study in Haiphong

Ha Thuy Thi Tran — 2024-05-31

Dietary adherence (DA) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) helps improve clinical parameters and enhance the patient’s quality of life. A cross-sectional study was conducted at a medical university hospital in Vietnam on 410 type 2 diabetes patients to evaluate dietary adherence and its barriers. DA was assessed using the Perceived Dietary Adherence Questionnaire (PDAQ). Out of the total 410 patients, the proportion of female patients was 60.2%, and the average age of patients was 66.08 ± 8.72 years old. Only 16.3% of patients adhered to the diet. Multivariate regression analysis showed that factors such as medication adherence (AOR= 3.44, 95%CI: 1.50-7.93), good glycemic control (AOR= 2.13, 95%CI: 1.17-3.87), and patients receiving monthly dietary counseling (AOR= 3.01, 95%CI: 1.63-5.55) were statistically significantly related to DA. Clinicians should consider these factors when advising patients on DA.

Factor analysis of the village health volunteers’ core competencies in Thailand

Noppadol Krutnoi — 2024-05-31

This survey research aimed to study the VHVs’ core competencies, in particular by analyzing the VHVs’ Competency Standards developed in 2007 in Thailand. The research used multistage probability random sampling. A total of 500 samples were collected from four regions in country through administering a questionnaire. The IOC was 0.70 –1, the CVI was 1, and the Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was 0.98. Exploratory factor analysis was deployed with principal component analysis and the Promax method for factor extraction and rotation. The sampling adequacy was verified with appropriate values (KMO = 0.96 and MSA values for each item ranging from 0.94 - 0.98 and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity (p < 0.001)). The results demonstrated that there are seven core competencies for VHVs as follows: 1) Empowering children and youth to engage in community healthcare development, 2) Health promotion, 3) Disease prevention, 4) Basic medical care, 5) Policy implementation, 6) Fostering self-care awareness, and 7) Health risk monitoring and precaution. All competencies explained 70.02% of the variance. The results could serve as guidelines for developing VHVs’ competencies to deliver high-quality healthcare services in the community.

Comparison between using an Automatic Uterine Massage Machine and manual uterine massage on postpartum blood loss within two hours after delivery at labour room, Phramongkutklao Hospital

Rungsinee Poonperm — 2024-05-31

This experimental study compares the effectiveness of Automatic Uterine Massage Machine (AUMM) and Manual Uterine Massage on uterine contraction intensity and the amount of postpartum blood loss within two hours after delivery. The participants consisted of 60 postpartum women who were within 2 hours of their normal delivery at Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand. The experimental and comparison groups each consisted of 30 participants allocated by a simple random method when visiting the labour room. The comparison group received a manual uterine massage by a nurse, while the experimental group received AUMM. Both groups received standard postpartum care, which included assessment for postpartum hemorrhage, administration of oxytocin 10 units, and ensuring an empty bladder. Mann-Whitney U test was used to analyze the difference in uterine contraction intensity and amount of postpartum blood loss between the groups. The participants’ characteristics between the groups revealed no statistically significant differences (p > 0.05). The manual uterine massage group exhibited significantly stronger uterine contractions compared to the AUMM group (p < 0.001). The key findings indicated that there was no significant difference in the amount of blood loss during the first 2 hours after delivery between the two groups (p = 0.323). Although using AUMM resulted in a significantly lower uterine contraction intensity, the amount of postpartum blood loss was not significantly different compared to the manual uterine massage group. Therefore, AUMM could be an alternative to manual uterine massage, especially in healthcare facilities facing a shortage of nursing staff, particularly during the critical period of the first 2 hours after delivery.

Performance of the District Health Boards within the district health system in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand

Kanchatpisit Kongsathienpong — 2024-05-31

The objectives of this cross-sectional study were to examine the performance of the District Health Boards (DHBs), and to investigate factors affecting DHB performance within the district health system in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand. The samples of the study were 399 participants from the DHBs. The data were collected by using a questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed with descriptive statistics (percentage, mean, and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (stepwise multiple regression analysis). The study’s results showed that the overall DHB performance within the district health system was at a moderate level (mean = 3.38, S.D. = 0.79). Among the components, the highest mean was found for setting objectives and plans at a high level (mean = 3.52, S.D. = 0.69), while the lowest mean was found for the evaluation of sustainable work development at the moderate level (mean = 3.17, S.D. = 0.70). Regarding factors affecting the DHB performances, eight co-predictive variables were found: 1) internal communication, 2) DHB potential development, 3) work assignment in teams, 4) community participation, 5) teamwork, 6) management experiences, 7) status of divorce/widow/separation, and 8) participation period in the DHB role. These eight factors could significantly co-predict the performances of the DHBs within the district health system at 65.40%. The results of this study can later be used as data for determining policies and plans for the implementation of the DHBs in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand.

The effect of cadre assistance on the knowledge and attitudes of mothers regarding breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and monitoring children's growth

Khalidatul Anwar — 2024-05-31

This study aimed to determine the effect of cadre assistance on mothers’ knowledge and attitudes regarding breastfeeding, complementary feeding, and monitoring children's growth. The research design was quasi-experimental and was conducted from August to October 2023 at four health centers (Poasia, Mokoau, Nambo, and Abeli in Kendari City, Indonesia). The study population consisted of mothers from four Health Centers. The sample size included 92 mothers. The inclusion criteria were mothers who had babies aged 4-6 months, could read, had no disability, and lived in the study area. The intervention group was divided into 2 (intervention 1 with cadre assistance, Intervention group 2 provided modules https://doi.org/10.36990/978-623-88118-2-3, and the control group received no intervention). The intervention was performed for 2 months. Data collection was carried out through questionnaires. The data obtained were in the ratio category, and data analysis was performed using Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests. Findings showed that there were differences in the maternal knowledge and attitude scores among the three groups (p<0.05). There was a difference between the pre-test and post-test in the mothers' knowledge scores in Intervention Group 1 (p<0.001). Regarding mothers’ attitudes, there were significant differences between intervention groups 1 and 2 (p<0.001). However, no significant differences were observed in the control group. Practical benefits from the results can be seen in designing more effective interventions for improving maternal knowledge and attitudes towards the topic. This could lead to improved health outcomes for mothers and infants. Future research should explore the long-term impacts of such interventions on the sustainability of breastfeeding practices and child development.

Empowering families intervention and elderly groups to reduce the anxiety levels of elderly with diabetes mellitus in Indonesia

Komang Ayu Henny Achjar — 2024-05-31

Optimal care for elderly individuals with diabetes mellitus requires the involvement of both family members and elderly groups. This research investigated the impact of empowering elderly caregivers and families to provide independent care for individuals with diabetes mellitus and decrease their anxiety levels. The study utilized a quasi-experimental design with a comparison group design involving intervention and comparison groups comprising 128 elderly individuals and 128 families. The HARS questionnaire and researchers' family capability questions were used in a two-month intervention aimed at assisting elderly people with diabetes mellitus to manage their anxiety levels independently. Families in independent care received weekly assistance from elderly individuals and nurses. The intervention given to the elderly and their families in the intervention group was an elderly and family empowerment program for caring for elderly patients with diabetes mellitus. Following the intervention, a post-test was administered to respondents to assess their anxiety levels using the HARS questionnaire, which was analyzed using both independent and dependent T tests. The intervention significantly improved the family's knowledge, attitudes, and skills in caring for the elderly (p = 0.001). The intervention group showed a significant decrease in anxiety levels, as indicated by a p-value of 0.003. In conclusion, empowering families and the elderly group enhances their ability to care for elderly people with diabetes mellitus independently at home and reduces their anxiety levels. This study emphasizes the significance of education and support for families and elderly caregivers in enhancing their caregiving abilities, improving outcomes, and reducing anxiety.

The model and role of Migrant Health Volunteers (MHVs) in Disease Prevention and Control (DPC) along Thailand’s border with Myanmar, Lao PDR and Cambodia

Boodsadee Mujarin — 2024-06-05

This study aims to synthesize the model and the role of migrant health volunteers (MHVs) in DPC, supporting public health operations and promoting migrant access to health services along the Thai border with Myanmar, Lao PDR, and Cambodia. The study areas comprised six Provinces. The MHVs subjects included 75 people and stakeholders engaged in border health work included 84 people. The tools included a questionnaire and interview guide. Data were collected through both group and individual interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

Two models were the paired working model involved an individual MHVs co-worker between Thailand and public health volunteers in neighboring countries with different names such as MHVS buddy, Xiao (friendship), and Xiao Sukkhapap (health friendship), and the specific MHVs workgroup model, they were residing together as a community and mainly classified according to the characteristics of the MHVs. Two MHVs’ roles were the first, to operate and support the work of public health officials in disease surveillance and DPC were found at level 5 (mean = 12.85, SD = 2.86). The activities comprised acting as a health dam to prevent Communicable Diseases (CD), an event report, a co-worker with the Surveillance Rapid Response Migrant Team (SRRMT), and a campaign to provide knowledge and facilitate coordination between the government and the hard-to-reach ethnic minorities group at village and district levels. The second role involved promoting access to medical care for migrant workers found at level 4 (mean = 28.52, SD = 8.02). The activities were to facilitate and coordinate channels for accessing health care services, conduct home visits, and enable communication. MHVs are essential to DPC within the migrant worker community and strengthen support for health personnel for surveillance and DPC at border areas.

Prevalence of and factors related to diabetes among aquaculture workers in Hai Phong, Vietnam: a cross-sectional study

Chi Tran Thi Quynh — 2024-06-10

Diabetes is one of the non-communicable diseases that occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. The disease can lead to dangerous complications such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, strokes, and limb amputation. A cross-sectional study was conducted through fasting blood sugar measurements and face-to-face interviews with 1,220 aquaculture workers to assess the prevalence and factors related to diabetes. The prevalence of diabetes in aquaculture workers was 7.1%, with pre-diabetes accounting for 21.2%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed the following results: male gender (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.05 - 2.51), age ≥ 40 years old (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.43 - 3.89), family history of diabetes (OR = 1.70, 95% CI: 1.01 - 3.09), overweight and obese (OR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.15 - 2.94), hypertension (OR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.04 - 2.62), dyslipidemia (OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.08 - 2.53), abdominal obesity (OR = 3.04, 95% CI: 1.91 – 4.72), irregular exercise (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.02 - 2.48), smoking more than 20 cigarettes/day compared to non-smokers, working at night (OR = 2.07, 95% CI: 1.22 - 3.15), depressive symptoms (OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.17 - 2.87) were related factors. Aquaculture workers need to take appropriate actions such as raising their awareness, changing lifestyles, having regular health check-ups and regular blood sugar testing to prevent diabetes, especially the progression of pre-diabetes into diabetes.

The association between parental body mass index and the risk of adolescent obesity

Mustakim — 2024-06-10

This study aimed to examine the prevalence of adolescent obesity in urban areas and the potential association with parental body mass index (BMI). A cross-sectional design was used and participants were selected from institutions of higher education in Jakarta City. Anthropometric data were obtained by trained volunteers while other variables were acquired through a self-administered questionnaire completed using a Google online form. Among the 420 questionnaires distributed, 370 (88%) were retrieved and completed. Data were analyzed by bivariate and multivariate analysis using chi-square and logistic regression adjusted for lifestyle covariates. The results showed that 59.65% and 63.16% of participants had a father or mother who was overweight and obese. The tendency to acquire obesity was higher when the father was obese compared to the mother (OR=1.42; 95% CI=0.92-2.19). A correlation was found between parental BMI and overweight/obesity in adolescents, with the father being a stronger predictor than the mother. Although there was no significant association, this study underscored the significance of adolescent obesity and overweight as a public health issue, suggesting the need for urgent preventive measures.

The effect of Clarias cookies on the growth and development of wasting children

Yuli Hartati — 2024-06-10

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Clarias cookies on the growth and development of wasting children. This study was conducted in the Taman Bacaan Palembang Health Center's working area. A quasi-experimental design was used, with a sample of 120 toddlers divided into the control (60) and treatment (60) groups. Toddlers in the treatment group were given Clarias cookies weighing 45 g/day, while those in the control group were given 45 g/day of cookies distributed by the government every day for three months. The body weight was measured monthly. Anthropometric data were collected by nutritionists who had been trained to use anthropometric tools. All collected data were recorded using a questionnaire. There was no significant difference in the samples between the control and intervention groups (P > 0.005). The sample can be categorized into the same group for each variable. This did not introduce bias in the results of the bivariate analysis. After receiving the Clarias cookies, the weight of the children in the treatment group increased significantly (p = 0.000) compared to that in the control group. The kids in the treatment group gained 2.21 pounds more than those in the control group, which gained just 0.28 pounds. To improve the nutrition of malnourished toddlers, it would be better to provide Clarias cookies rather than biscuits from the government.

Disparities in sugar-sweetened beverage expenditures: insights from Indonesian urban and rural households

Marya Yenita Sitohang — 2024-06-10

Excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) poses a significant health risk because of their poor nutritional content. This study investigates SSB expenditure among Indonesian households with the goal to analyse disparities and determinants in urban and rural areas. Using the data from March 2022 national socio-economic survey, percentages and means were calculated, and binary probit analysis was performed. The results indicate that the majority of Indonesian households (73.59%) purchase sugary drinks, with slightly higher proportions and mean SSB expenditures observed in rural compared to urban households. Household SSB expenditure at the national level exhibits linear associations with quintiles of household food expenditure and size, a consistent pattern observed in both rural and urban areas. Notably, household composition, including a larger number of children, female adults, and elderly individuals, correlates with reduced SSB expenditures in urban households, while no such trend is observed in rural counterparts. Despite similar access to sugary drinks in rural and urban areas, urgent attention is needed to enhance health literacy among rural households. Interventions through formal education institutions or community-driven initiatives are crucial to address this important health concern and foster healthier beverage choices across the diverse Indonesian landscape.

Assessing inequalities in the hypertension management under national health insurance: Evidence from Southern Central Java, Indonesia

Joko Mulyanto — 2024-06-10

Equal access to disease management is crucial to control the impact of hypertension on the burden of disease in Indonesia. This study aimed to assess the extent of inequalities in the use, quality, and outcomes of hypertension management for beneficiaries of the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. This cross-sectional study consecutively recruited 797 beneficiaries of National Health Insurance who participated in the hypertension management program in the Banyumas District, Indonesia, between July and October 2021. The outcomes were regular visits, standard medication, and disease control. The inequalities were measured based on educational level, employment type, type of beneficiaries, and place of residence. The rate difference, rate ratio, and multiple logistic regression were used to estimate the extent of inequality. Compared to informal workers, formal workers had more regular visits to healthcare facilities (OR 1.78; 95%CI: 1.01-3.18) and had better disease control (OR 2.36; 95%CI: 1.28-4.38). Non-subsidized participants had fewer regular visits compared to subsidized participants (OR 0.51; 95%CI: 0.30-0.84). Urban residents tended to have more regular visits compared to rural residents (OR 2.14; 95%CI: 0.90-5.05). A substantial extent of inequalities in the use and outcomes of hypertension management still exists among beneficiaries of the NHI program. The future implementation of the hypertension management program of National Health Insurance in Indonesia should consider the geographical and socio-economic background of its participants.

Predictive factors of the Covid-19 self-test kits behavior usage among undergraduate students in Thailand: a cross-sectional survey

Sarunya Wanjararat — 2024-06-10

The COVID-19 self-test kit plays a pivotal role in public health by identifying active infections and enhancing individuals' access to testing. Its rapid results enable early detection of positive cases, contributing significantly to the control of disease transmission. This cross-sectional survey aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and behavior in using COVID-19 self-test kit and explored demographic characteristics, knowledge, and attitude as factors predicting COVID-19 self-test kit usage behavior among undergraduate students of the Faculty of Physical Education, Sports, and Health. The participants were selected by quota sampling technique. Data were collected from February 1 to 25, 2023. A total of 446 participants completed an anonymous online questionnaire voluntarily. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance and multiple stepwise linear regression were utilized for data analysis, using SPSS at a significance level of 0.05. The findings showed a high level of knowledge (71.3%) in using COVID-19 self-test kits, moderate scores in behavior (71.7%) and a neutral attitude (54.3%) towards their usage. Gender, year of study, department of study, and underlying disease exhibited noteworthy disparities in knowledge scores (all p<0.05). Similarly, gender, number of COVID-19 infections, and vaccination status were associated with attitudes (all p < 0.001). Furthermore, the department of study emerged as a significant factor influencing behavioral aspects (p = 0.013). Attitude (β = 0.427, 95% CI [0.455, 0.685], p < 0.001), being from the Department of Public Health (β = 0.199, 95% CI [2.388, 5.771], p < 0.001), knowledge (β = 0.168, 95% CI [0.316, 0.962], p < 0.001), being gender diverse (β = -0.089, 95% CI [-5.428, -0.157], p = 0.038), and being infected with COVID-19 twice (β = -0.083, 95% CI [-6.632, -0.015], p = 0.049) were significant predictors of COVID-19 self-test kit usage behavior. The identified predictors provide practical guidance for educational institutions and health authorities.

Causal effect of health belief model constructs in predicting anxiety in health workers: An insight from Indonesia during COVID-19 pandemic

Ika Yuli Ayuningrum — 2024-06-10

Health workers are a vulnerable group to the psychosocial effects during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study is to assess the constructs of health belief model (HBM) to predict anxiety during the pandemic among health workers using a path analysis model. It was an analytic observational study with a cross-sectional design. The data were collected through an online questionnaire, from May to July 2020. The study population was health workers in Indonesia. A sample of 508 health workers was selected for this study. The dependent variable was anxiety. The independent variables were gender, age, education, income, perceived susceptibility, perceived seriousness, perceived benefit, perceived barrier, self-efficacy, number of family members, and daily need fulfillment. The selected data were analyzed by a path analysis run on Stata 13. This study found that anxiety was directly increased by high perceived susceptibility (b= 0.41; 95% CI= 0.01 to 0.80; p= 0.044), high perceived seriousness (b= 0.99; 95% CI= 0.59 to 1.40; p<0.001), and high perceived barrier (b= 0.84; 95% CI= 0.42 to 1.25; p <0.001). Anxiety was directly decreased by high perceived benefit (b= -12.24; 95% CI= -1211.64 to 1187.16; p= 0.984), being male (b= -0.18; 95% CI= -0.63 to 0.27; p= 0.430), sufficient daily needs fulfillment (b= -1.10 95% CI= -1.49 to -0.70; p<0.001), and strong self-efficacy (b= -0.16; 95% CI= -0.58 to 0.26; p= 0.467). Anxiety was indirectly affected by age, number of family members, income, and education. It can be concluded that the health belief model can be used to predict anxiety in health workers during the pandemic.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to food poisoning prevention among Vietnamese medical students: Results of an online survey

Duc Cap Minh — 2024-06-10

Food poisoning (FP) has emerged as a global public health concern. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) play pivotal roles in mitigating the occurrence of foodborne illnesses. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of KAP in relation to FP prevention and its associated factors among medical students. This cross-sectional study used an online survey platform to select participants through convenience sampling using a structured self-administered questionnaire. Out of 3,126 students, the response rate was approximately 49%. Among the 1,534 participants, 63.0% were females, and the average age was 20.62 ± 1.98. The percentages of participants with good knowledge, good attitudes, and good practices regarding FP prevention were 28.2%, 44.1%, and 68%, respectively. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, grade level (Year 3 [AOR= 1.98; 95%CI: 1.31-2.99], Year 4 [AOR= 2.30; 95%CI: 1.53-3.46], Year 5 [AOR= 1.52; 95%CI: 1.01-2.30], Year 6 [AOR= 2.59; 95%CI: 1.80-3.72] compared to Year 1), previous participation in courses or subjects related to FP (AOR= 1.66; 95%CI: 1.29-2.14), and hearing about an FP outbreak (AOR= 1.67; 95%CI: 1.24-2.24) were significant factors associated with good knowledge. Females (AOR= 1.28; 95%CI: 1.03-1.59) and participants who had previously participated in courses or subjects associated with FP (AOR= 1.32; 95%CI: 1.04 -1.68) showed significantly good attitudes. Females (AOR= 1.63; 95%CI: 1.29-2.06), participants with no previous history of FP illness (AOR= 0.65; 95%CI: 0.52-0.84), and those with good attitudes (AOR= 3.64; 95%CI: 2.85-4.64) were significantly associated with good practices. This is the first study to provide new insights into the prevalence of KAP towards FP prevention and the contributing factors among Vietnamese medical students. Various health interventions are necessary, primarily focusing on health education targeting key relevant factors.

Elevated lipoprotein (a) levels in hypertensive patients in southern part of Nigeria

Augustine Eguvbe — 2024-06-10

Hypertension is linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and is the leading modifiable risk factor for morbidity and mortality globally. Lipoprotein (a) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. It has been suggested to contribute to increased risk for atherosclerosis in hypertensive patients. This study was to investigate the levels of Lp (a) in hypertensive patients and correlate them with other risk factors of cardiovascular disease. This was a hospital-based cross-sectional study conducted between October 2022 and December 2023 at the Delta State Central Hospital, Warri. The study involved 200 hypertensive patients and 100 healthy controls. The lipoprotein (a) levels in the hypertensives ranged from 5.2 – 89.0 mg/dl with a mean of 32.8 ± 16.6 mg/dl. The controls had a range of 1.1 – 63.2 mg/dl with a mean of 16.9 ± 13.9 mg/dl. The difference in mean Lp(a) levels was statistically significant (p <0.001). In the hypertensives, Lp(a) correlated positively with body weight (r = 0.522, p = 0.001), BMI (r = 0.553, p = 0.002) and waist circumference (r = 0.628, p = 0.001).Serum Lp (a) levels were significantly higher in the hypertensive patients than in the normotensive controls. There was a positive correlation between serum Lp (a) and BMI and waist circumference in the hypertensive group.

Comparison of the effect of isotonic and hypotonic saline solutions for children with mild dehydration at Lampang Hospital

Manasjitt Boonyatarp — 2024-06-10

Administering the appropriate type and rate of fluids is crucial for pediatric patients. Young patients should be given isotonic solutions, as they are safer than hypotonic solutions for fluid maintenance. However, limited studies exist on the efficacy and complications of isotonic solutions for treating acutely ill pediatric patients with mild dehydration. This study aimed to compare isotonic and hypotonic solutions in such cases. A stratified randomized controlled trial was conducted on patients aged 6 months to 15 years with acute illness and mild dehydration in two disease groups: acute gastroenteritis and other diseases. The trial involved administering intravenous fluids, either isotonic or hypotonic solution, for at least 24 hours. Pre and post-treatment serum sodium levels and treatment complications were assessed and compared between patients who received isotonic and hypotonic solutions. A total of 144 patients were randomly assigned to receive either isotonic solution or hypotonic solution. Of the 144 patients, 72 received isotonic and 72 received hypotonic solutions. The isotonic group comprised 51.4% males with a median age of 27.5 months. On the other hand, the hypotonic group comprised 56.9% males with a median age of 38 months. At baseline, both groups' sodium levels were similar at 136.2±2.5 and 136.8±2.5 mmol/L, respectively. After 24 hours, the isotonic group had a statistically significant increase in sodium levels (138.8±2.2 mmol/L; increased median 2.3) compared to the hypotonic group (138.1±2.0 mmol/L; increased median 1.5). In conclusion, no cases of hypernatremia, drowsiness, or seizures were observed, suggesting isotonic solutions can be safely used in these selected groups of acutely ill pediatric patients with mild dehydration.

Low Serum Vitamin B12 is Significantly Associated with Depression: A Cross Sectional Observational Study

Mayuri Rastogi — 2024-06-11

Vitamin B12 plays a vital role in the prevention of psychological disorders. Studies have reported the positive impact of vitamin B12 supplementation on cognitive functions. However, epidemiological research on the prevalence of depression in the vitamin B12-deficient adult population is still insufficient. Thus, the present study investigates the prevalence of depression among the vitamin B12-deficient 400 adult participants, whose serum vitamin B12 status was below 200pg/mL, aged between 18 years to 60 years. The sociodemographic profile, anthropometric assessment and presence or absences of clinical symptoms were recorded via self-administered questionnaire. Participants were divided in Vitamin B12 insufficient and deficient group. Depression was screened by Beck- Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) scale, with 21-item self-administered survey. The study reported, 16% participants were from deficient group (serum vitamin B 12 below 150 pg/ml) with mean age 43.2±10.5 years. Depressive symptoms were found inversely associated with serum vitamin B12 levels. A significant association (at p<0.05) was found with age (chi sq=44.09, d.f.= 2, and p=0.001), gender (chi sq=7.91, d.f.= 1, and p=0.0048), body mass index (chi sq=12.97, d.f.= 2, and p=0.022), metformin usage (chi sq=8.31, d.f.= 2, and p=0.015), religion (chi sq=7.54, d.f.= 2, and p=0.022), income group (chi sq=5.71, d.f.= 2, and p=0.04), food preferences (chi sq=18.95, d.f.= 2, and p=0.00007) and clinical symptoms. The odds (CI) of depression among vitamin B12 deficient participants were found 5.88 (2.81-12.32), making it an independent predictor of depression. After adjusting with confounding variables, the association remained the same. The study revealed that the adult population with reduced vitamin B12 levels has higher probabilities of developing depression, and the chances increased with age. Thus, early detection and low cost supplementation should be implemented to combat vitamin B12 deficiency and its complications.

A structural equation model of factors influencing intimate partner violence victimization and health outcomes among men who have sex with men in Bangkok, Thailand

Ajchara Seeya — 2024-06-10

Intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization is a serious public health problem. Factors influencing intimate partner violence among men who have sex with men (MSM) are not well understood in the Asian context where a powerful patriarchal system exists. In order to understand these factors, this study aimed to develop and test a structural equation model (SEM) of factors influencing intimate partner violence victimization and the resulting health outcomes. Data were collected from 382 male couples, who were registered as members of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand. The SEM was developed using AMOS version 24.0. that the model fits the empirical data very well (c²/df = 1.09 , p-value > 0.05, GFI = 0.975, RMSEA = 0.015) and found that 1) Intimate partner violence victimization among MSM was directly influenced by the variables of the greatest effect, younger age followed by open sexual orientation; 2) Physical health outcomes were directly influenced by presence in a risky community and history of family violence; 3) Psychological health outcomes were directly influenced by permissive parenting style, and 4) Both physical and mental health outcomes were indirectly influenced by younger age and open sexual orientation. The results suggest that intimate partner violence prevention programs among young MSM should be implemented at an early age, particularly targeting those with a history of family violence, substance abuse, low education and those living in risky communities. Authoritative parenting styles and stigmatization are also matters of concern.

Effectiveness of the Thai traditional health tourism activities empowerment program on the active aging of Thai older adults

Rukchanok Koshakri — 2024-06-11

Objective: This one-group quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the Thai Traditional Health Tourism Activities Empowerment Program on the active aging of older adults in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Thailand. Methods: This program included 52 older adults from 11 districts and involved the restructuring of the traditional Thai medicine building as well as a one-day training session on being a tour guide for local health tourism accompanied by a 20-page handbook. It also empowered them to use the Internet and regularly chat on the LINE application to help them participate in social activities for eight weeks as well as build a network for health tourism employment. Questionnaires on demographics and active aging were used. Data collected before program participation were compared with those obtained immediately, four weeks, and eight weeks after program completion through paired t-test and repeated-measures analysis of variance. Results: Mean active aging scores were statistically significantly higher after program participation than before (p < 0.001) and significantly increased eight weeks after program completion. Average incomes eight weeks after program completion showed a statistically significant increase. Discussion: The program offers some practical strategies for confronting challenges in knowledge and technology support during the aging process. This study provides strong evidence of the program’s effectiveness. In conclusion, this program can improve active aging among older adults.