Journal of Council of Community Public Health

The Impact of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) on Oral Health

๋Jaturon Sittirach — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), driven by accumulated behavioral risk factors, are rising in Thailand, particularly among older adults—an estimated 20% in 2024, projected to reach 30% within seven years. Despite ongoing chronic care services, oral health has received limited attention in this population, even though evidence indicates higher risk of oral diseases among patients with NCDs and bidirectional effects of oral conditions on the control of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic disorders. This article analyzes the two-way relationship between NCDs and oral health across biological, social, and service-delivery dimensions, and examines public-health implications for quality of life, healthcare costs, and workforce burden. It then proposes a system-wide integration of oral healthcare into NCD services across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, emphasizing four pillars: (1) routine co-screening within NCDs clinics, (2) continuous behavior support and counseling, (3) interprofessional teamwork with clear task-sharing, and (4) electronic referral and shared data systems for periodic follow-up. The proposed approach is intended to improve treatment efficiency, reduce complications, and sustainably enhance patient well-being.

Development of a Family Health Practice Training Set through the Home Visit Process for Public Health Students at Chiang Mai Rajabhat University

chatsiri wiphawin, Rujeerat Nupap, Wittaya Tanaree — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The teaching and learning process in public health education requires the development of individual, family, and community capacities for self-care, as well as the promotion of graduates’ roles in preventing health risk behaviors across all age groups. This research and development (R&D) study aimed to develop a family health practice training set based on the home visit process for public health students, and evaluate its effectiveness and students’ satisfaction with the training set. The participants were 98 second-year public health students. The research instruments included the family health practice training set, pre – test and post – test knowledge assessments, a practical skills assessment form, a reflection form, a satisfaction questionnaire, and a semi-structured in-depth interview guide. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the paired t-test, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.

The results revealed that the developed training set had content validity verified by experts (IOC = 0.85). The mean pretest and posttest knowledge scores were 12.35 ± 2.15 and 17.48 ± 1.96, respectively, showing a statistically significant increase (t = 14.62, p < .001). Practical skill scores also improved from 2.77 (±0.39) to 4.31 (±0.33) at a statistically significant level (p < .001). Students’ overall satisfaction with the training set was at the highest level (M = 4.59, SD = 0.44). Qualitative findings indicated that the training set enhanced students’ knowledge, communication skills, and confidence in real practice. Furthermore, the reflection form promoted learning through real-life experience was consistent with the principles of Experiential Learning Theory. In conclusion this training set can serve as a practical guideline for teaching and learning in public health education, fostering holistic health care competencies and enabling students to apply their knowledge effectively in community settings.

The effects of a self-efficacy development program for nutrition management on health behaviors and body mass index in overweight late adolescents

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This one-group pretest–posttest quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effects of a self-efficacy development program for nutrition management on health behaviors and body mass index (BMI) among overweight late adolescents. The participants were purposively selected based on the inclusion criteria: late adolescents aged 17–19 years residing at an educational institution of higher learning in Surat Thani, with a BMI between 23.00–24.99 kg/m², classified as overweight. A total of 26 participants were included in the study. The research instruments consisted of a self-efficacy enhancement program for nutritional management and a health behavior questionnaire. The intervention was conducted over a 4-week period. The research instruments were validated by three experts, yielding a Content Validity Index (CVI) of 0.80. The reliability of the dietary behavior assessment tool demonstrated a Cronbach’s alpha coefficient of 0.95. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and the paired t-test.

The results revealed that after participating in the self-efficacy enhancement program for nutritional management, the participants demonstrated significantly higher mean scores of health behaviors compared to before the intervention (P-value < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in mean BMI before and after the intervention.

Recommendations: Overweight late adolescents can appropriately modify their health behaviors through the enhancement of self-efficacy in nutritional management. Therefore, programs designed to promote self-efficacy for nutrition management should be implemented among adolescents and young adults in educational institutions. Continuous follow-up assessments at 6-month or 12-month intervals are recommended to monitor, refine, and reinforce the application of knowledge, leading to sustained improvements in health behavior and prevent the occurrence of non-communicable diseases.

The Effectiveness of the Stroke Prevention Behavior Improvement Program among Older Adults in Mae Ka Sub-district, Mueang Phayao District, Phayao Province

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research was a quasi-experimental study with two groups, pretest-posttest design, aimed to examine the effectiveness of a behavioral development program for stroke prevention among older adults in Mae Ka Subdistrict, Mueang Phayao District, Phayao Province. The sample consisted of 56 older adults, divided equally into an experimental group (n = 28) and a control group (n = 28). Data collection was conducted between June and July 2025, covering a total period of two months. The research instruments included: (1) an eight-week behavioral development program for stroke prevention among older adults, and (2) a questionnaire composed of four parts: personal information, knowledge, attitude, and preventive behaviors toward stroke. The questionnaire was validated for content validity, appropriateness, and linguistic clarity. Reliability testing was performed with 30 individuals who shared similar characteristics to the study sample. The knowledge section demonstrated a reliability coefficient of 0.68 using the Kuder-Richardson method, while the attitude and behavior sections yielded Cronbach’s alpha coefficients of 0.86 and 0.94, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Paired t-test and Independent t-test.

The results revealed that, within the experimental group, mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and preventive behaviors toward stroke significantly increased after the intervention (p < 0.05), while no significant differences were observed in the control group. Moreover, when comparing between groups, the experimental group showed significantly higher posttest mean scores for knowledge, attitude, and preventive behaviors than the control group (p < 0.05)

The findings suggest that public health agencies can apply this program as a practical guideline for promoting health among older adults in communities. The emphasis on behavioral modification for stroke prevention may effectively and sustainably reduce the risk of stroke among older populations.

Effect of Warming cap and sock to prevent hypothermia and shivering in maternal undergoing cesarean section under spinal anesthesia in Maesai hospital.

Naphatson Chatyinghirankit, Sompradthana Vong — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This quasi-experimental, two-group study aimed to examine the effects of using a warm hat and warm foot socks on preventing hypothermia and shivering in post-cesarean section mothers who underwent spinal anesthesia. The sample consisted of 47 post-partum mothers at Mae Sai Hospital, Chiang Rai Province, divided into an experimental group and a control group. The study was conducted between February 2025 and June 2025. A pre- and post-test design was used. The research instruments included a patient data record form with content validity (IOC) of 0.89, and a shivering monitoring form with content validity (IOC) of 1. The tools included a warm hat and warm foot socks. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent t-test. The results revealed that post-cesarean section mothers in the group receiving conventional body warming combined with a warm hat and warm foot socks had significantly higher mean body temperature than those in the group not using a warm hat and warm foot socks at all time points (p < 0.05), and had significantly lower shivering levels than the control group (p < 0.05). The results indicated that using a warm hat and... Foot warmers can effectively prevent hypothermia and reduce shivering in mothers undergoing cesarean sections.

The Development of Melioidosis Surveillance, Control, and Health Literacy Promotion for Prevention Among At-Risk Groups in the Lower Southern Region

Pathomporn Prikchoo, Nutjamee Leesahud, Orratai Tupkleo — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research and development aimed to study the situation, problems, and needs, develop a model, evaluate the effectiveness, and policy recommendations for melioidosis surveillance, control, and health literacy promotion for prevention among at-risk groups. The study was carried out in four stages: 1. Situational analysis: Studied the context, problems, and needs of public health personnel. Data were collected from 581 at-risk individuals and 120 personnel. 2. Model development: the operational model was reviewed by 5 experts, and its suitability, feasibility, and utility for implementation were evaluated by 27 target users. 3. Model evaluation: Examined the effectiveness using a two-group quasi-experimental design with pre-test and post-tests among 267 at-risk individuals and 31 personnel. Descriptive statistics and Paired t-tests were used for analysis. 4. Policy recommendations: Gathering policy recommendations from 10 experts. The findings were as follows:

The incidence rate of melioidosis in the lower Southern region showed an increasing trend, with fatalities reported annually. Personnel were unaware of the operational upon patient detection. At-risk groups lacked knowledge and exhibited inappropriate behavior. Personnel also lacked knowledge and required a comprehensive operational model covering surveillance, control, and prevention promotion guidelines.
Model for melioidosis surveillance, control, and health literacy promotion in the lower southern region is the ODPC12 Melioidosis Model - Early Detection, Early Reporting, Well-Controlled, Enhancing Health Literacy.
After implementation of the model: Disease detection sensitivity was 50.00%. Positive predictive value was 85.71%. Completeness of disease reporting was 92.85%. Case investigation according to criteria was 100.00%. For health literacy promotion in the at-risk group, health literacy, knowledge, and behavior all significantly improved after the activities (P≤0.05).
Policy recommendations emphasize hospital-based disease surveillance, developing a coordinated reporting system, enhancing personnel capacity, integrating
the One Health network, and promoting health literacy in high-risk groups, especially diabetic patients. It is recommended to expand the ODPC12 Melioidosis Model to all Regional/ General Hospitals and large Community Hospitals in the lower Southern region with high melioidosis incidence rates.

Barriers and facilitators in weight maintenance among female weight losers in semi-urban areas

Charunee Thiabpho, Saovaros Meekusol, Udomlak Duangpunmat — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Long-term maintenance of weight loss remains a challenging issue, particularly following a short-term weight reduction. This phenomenological study aimed to explore the barriers and facilitators to sustaining weight loss among women aged 50–59 years who had previously lost at least 5% of their initial body weight and maintained a weight reduction of no less than 3%. Data were collected in semi-urban municipal areas of Khon Kaen Province between August and September 2024. A total of ten participants were recruited using purposive sampling and participated in in-depth interviews. The research instrument was a semi-structured interview guide, and the data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

The findings revealed that the primary barrier to long-term weight maintenance was a decline in motivation resulting from fatigue and time constraints. Conversely, key facilitators supporting long-term weight maintenance included mindfulness regarding health and well-being, driven by intrinsic motivation to overcome obstacles, regular weight monitoring, and self-confidence and self-esteem in weight control behaviors. These findings suggest that policymakers and related stakeholders should focus on strengthening intrinsic motivation and encouraging regular weight monitoring while building individuals’ capacity to utilize weight management data for sustainable weight maintenance, thereby contributing to obesity prevention in the community.

The Effectiveness of a Parent Training Program for Behavioral Modification in Children with ADHD, Don Mod Daeng Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Sirinya Saengtawan — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study was a pilot quasi-experimental research using a one-group pretest–posttest design. The objective was to examine the effectiveness of a parent-training program in improving the management of children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), aged 6–15 years, who received care at Donmoddaeng Hospital. The program aimed to enhance parents’ knowledge and skills in caring for children with ADHD. The sample consisted of 10 parents who participated in a seven-step workshop-based training program, delivered over seven sessions (1–2 hours each) within a three-week period. Participants received both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice.

The results showed that the program significantly reduced undesirable behaviors in children with ADHD (P-value< 0.05). Scores for inattention and hyperactivity decreased from 3.50 to 2.10, impulsive behaviors decreased from 3.80 to 2.50, and hyperactive behaviors decreased from 4.20 to 2.80. Regarding parental practices, discipline-building scores increased from 3.20 to 4.10, positive reinforcement increased from 3.00 to 4.30, and the ability to ignore minor misbehaviors increased from 2.8 to 4.0. Feedback from health-care personnel indicated high acceptance of the program, with two staff members agreeing that it was beneficial and practical for managing children with ADHD.

In conclusion, the parent-training program was effective in improving children’s behaviors and strengthening parental caregiving practices, resulting in positive impacts on child development and enhancing the parent–child relationship.

Factors Affecting the Quality of Life Among the Elderly in Nakhonthai District, Phitsanulok Province

Amornsak Poum, Puttipong Makmai — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Active aging is an important process to improve quality of life among elderly people. This cross-sectional research study aimed to examine the associations between selected factors and quality of life, and to identify predictors linked to knowledge, attitudes and health perception of quality of life among the elderly. The population in this study consisted of 1,651 elderly individuals aged 60-69 years residing in Nakhonthai District, Phitsanulok Province, in fiscal year 2024. A sample size of 330 was calculated using Daniel's (2010) formula for finite population. Systematic random sampling was employed for data collection. Data were collected using a structured interview questionnaire composed of personal characteristics, knowledge, attitude, health perception, and quality of life among the elderly. To ensure questionnaire quality, content validity was examined by 3 experts, with IOC values ranging from 0.67 to 1.00. Pilot testing was conducted, and the reliability test using Cronbach's alpha coefficient yielded a value of 0.867. Data were analyzed using Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient and stepwise multiple regression analysis. Correlation analysis revealed that factors positively associated with quality of life among the elderly at the 0.05 significance level included knowledge, health perception, and attitude, respectively. Multiple regression analysis showed that the selected factors accounted for 15.60% of the variance in quality of life among the elderly. Only two factors were included in the final model: perceived risk of illness (P-value<0.001) and perceived barriers to health care (P-value=0.012). Therefore, related health workers and providers should consider these factors and cooperate to promote healthy behavior and improve quality of life in the elderly.

Factors Affecting Digital Competency of Public Health Technical Officers in Sub-district Health Promoting Hospitals, Nakhon Pathom Province, under the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health

Sirawit Thammakrang, Sutthisak Surirak — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The transformation of the health system at present has rendered digital competency essential for enhancing the operational efficiency and service delivery of primary care public health personnel. This cross-sectional analytical research aimed to study the level of digital competency and factors affecting the digital competency of public health technical officers at health-promoting hospitals in Nakhon Pathom Province, under the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Public Health. The sample consisted of 259 public health technical officers, with data collected between August and September 2025 using a questionnaire. The content validity was between 0.67-1.00, and the reliability of the Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the entire questionnaire was 0.98. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression analysis. The research findings revealed that overall digital competency was at a high level (M = 3.93, SD .= 0.51). The aspect of digital use had the highest mean score, while the aspect of problem-solving using digital tools had the lowest mean score. Factors affecting digital competency included personnel relationships ( = 0.296), receiving recognition and respect ( = 0.269), perceived ease of use ( = 0.262), age ( = -0.205), career advancement ( = 0.114), master's degree ( = 0.097), male gender ( = 0.090), and receiving technology usage training ( = 0.082). Together, these factors could explain 64.8% of the variance in digital competency (R² = 0.648, P-value < 0.001). Therefore, administrators should promote relationships and recognition in the workplace, select user-friendly technology, and develop training courses on problem-solving skills using digital tools to prepare personnel for current technological changes.

Risk Factors Associated with Falls Among THE Elderly in Ubon Ratchathani Province

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to identify risk factors associated with falls among older adults in Ubon Ratchathani Province, categorized into personal, health-related, and environmental factors. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 760 older adults aged 60 years and above, selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and standardized health assessment tools. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics, while Chi-square tests and logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with falls.

The results found that the statistically significant risk factors for falls included monthly household income below 1,000 THB (AOR = 6.75), adverse drug effects (AOR = 3.19), low fear of falling (AOR = 3.05), alcohol consumption former or current (AOR = 2.19 and 4.95, respectively), impaired balance and mobility (AOR = 7.81), Lower limb muscle weakness (AOR = 1.79), inadequate indoor lighting (AOR = 3.79), damaged indoor walkways (AOR = 3.00), non-standard bathroom (AOR = 1.78). And vision problems in participants adults aged ≥80 years had 2.69 times the odds of falling compared with adults aged 60–69 years (OR = 2.69; 95% CI: 1.14–5.01; p = 0.002).

Falls among older adults are influenced by multidimensional factors encompassing personal, health, and environmental conditions. Comprehensive prevention programs focusing on balance and strength training, medication review, vision care, alcohol reduction, and home environment modifications particularly for low-income households should be prioritized in community and policy interventions.

Keywords: falls, older Adults, elderly, risk factors

Enhancing the Quality of Outpatient Services with the Smart Hospital Concept at Ban Rai Hospital

Chon Silacharoen — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of implementing a smart hospital model on the quality of outpatient services at Ban Rai Hospital focusing on service efficiency indicators patient and staff satisfaction and perceived experiences of stakeholders A mixed methods design was employed The quantitative sample comprised 448 participants including 428 patients or relatives and 20 staff members selected by systematic random sampling Service efficiency data were obtained from the hospital information system for at least ten working days before and after implementation Qualitative data were collected through in depth interviews with 10 patients and 5 staff and were analysed using content analysis Descriptive statistics and paired sample t tests were used for quantitative analysis After implementation mean waiting time decreased from 120.00 to 105.50 minutes t = 9.214 P-value < 0.001 the number of service steps decreased from 7 to 5 t = 12.006 P-value < 0.001 service area crowding decreased from 58.20 to 44.50 persons per hour t = 8.528 P-value < 0.001 and the mean number of outpatients per day increased from 98.50 to 121.30 persons t = −7.334 P-value < 0.001 Patient satisfaction scores increased from 3.95 to 4.45 t = −10.127 P-value < 0.001 and staff satisfaction from 3.80 to 4.32 t = −7.958 P-value < 0.001 Qualitative findings supported the quantitative results indicating clearer service processes more predictable queues reduced confusion and improved workflow and patient tracking although some staff reported a period of adaptation and additional support needs for older or less digitally literate patients The findings suggest that implementing a smart hospital model can effectively enhance outpatient service quality and may inform service development in similar community hospital settings

The Influence of Health Literacy on Exercise Behavior among Students of Sirindhorn College of Public Health Trang

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The Influence of Health Literacy on Exercise Behavior among Students of Sirindhorn College of Public Health Trang

The Development of Community Based Treatment and Motivation Interview for Drug Addicts: The “Phayao Lom Rak” Model

Panupan Paitoon, Apichai Sithi, Sittichai saisom — Mon, 29 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research and development aimed to develop a community-based treatment and motivation interview for drug addiction in Chun District, Phayao Province. The sample consisted of six drug rehabilitation team members, 49 community network members, 35 drug addicts, and 35 family members of the patients. Research instruments included In-depth interview guidelines, focus group guidelines, the Self-Recovery Motivation Questionnaire (SOCRATES 8D), the Drug Use Behavior Questionnaire, the Quality of Life Questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF-THAI), and the Community Participation Assessment Form. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.

The results revealed that the main problems were new drug users and relapses among youth, stemming from family problems, lack of employment and income, and a top-down, power-based approach to drug-related interventions. This conventional approach was characterized by government agencies issuing directives for communities to implement predetermined actions, which lacked genuine community participation and failed to respond to local needs. To address this gap, a new model was developed in which the community itself designed the intervention process. This collaborative effort resulted in a community-driven rehabilitation model called the "Phayao Lom Rak" Model, comprising four components: (1) screening, identification, and surveillance; (2) treatment; (3) follow-up by the "Five Partners" team (interdisciplinary rehabilitation team, public health personnel, village health volunteers, community leaders, and police); and (4) rehabilitation based on the principles of "forgiveness and opportunity." Evaluation results indicated that after implementing the model, patients exhibited significantly increased self-recovery motivation (P-value < .001), decreased drug use behavior (P-value < .001), improved quality of life (P-value < .05), and significantly enhanced community participation (P-value < .001).

Factors Influencing Preventive Behavior on Coronavirus Disease 2019 among Myanmar Migrants Workers in Factories at High Incidence Rate of Border Areas Tak Province

chamaikarn Saetia, Phataraphon Markmee — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The rapid spread of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) was partly due to transmission among workers in industrial settings, especially among Myanmar migrant workers. This descriptive research aimed to study the factors influencing preventive behaviors against COVID-19 among Myanmar workers in factories located in Mae Tao Subdistrict, Mae Sot District, Tak Province. The sample consisted of 350 workers aged 20 years and above, selected through multi-stage random sampling. Data was collected using an interview questionnaire with reliability coefficients ranging from 0.78 to 0.99.

The results showed that the participants had an average age of 26.01 years (SD = 4.46), and 69.7% exhibited a high level of preventive behavior. Statistically significant factors influencing preventive behaviors included the isolation of patients and contacts within the factory (Beta = 0.492, p<0.001), receiving guidance from the factory (Beta = 0.262, p<0.001), the factory environment (Beta = 0.248, p<0.001), and the provision of protective equipment (Beta = -0.079, p<0.001), respectively. These factors could collectively predict preventive behavior at 76.3% (Adjusted R² = 0.763).

We recommend that authorities should have a plan to promote self-protection behaviors for workers consist of measures to separate patients and contacts, support for protective equipment, forms of advice on prevention, and creating an environment that supports workers to behave correctly.