Journal of Medical and Public Health Region 4

The effectiveness of health literacy promotion program toward blood pressure control among patients with uncontrolled hypertension in Ban Nong Hua Ling Nai Health Promoting Hospital, Pak Phli District, Nakhon Nayok Province, Thailand

Rungnara Suebjakphan, Napaswan Namboonsri — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research is quasi-experimental research with a two-group pre-test and post-test design, which aimed to evaluate an effectiveness of health literacy promotion program toward blood pressure control among patients with uncontrolled hypertension in Ban Nong Hua Ling Nai Health Promoting Hospital, Pak Phli District, Nakhon Nayok Province, Thailand. The sample group was calculated and resulted in 84 participants, divided into experimental group 42 participants and comparison group 42 participants. A purposive sampling was used. The instruments used in this study included 1 Health Literacy Assessment for Develop Appropriate Blood Pressure Control Behaviors Form 2 Appropriateness of Blood Pressure Control Behaviors Survey. Result showed that an experimental group had higher level of health literacy and appropriate health behaviors than control group significantly (p = 0.000, 95%CI = -5.65, -1.57 and p = 0.001, 95%CI = -10.12, -3.49 respectively). Moreover, experimental group’s systolic blood pressure reduced significantly after receiving a program
(p < 0.001). Following the result, this can state that the higher health literacy, the better health behavior modification resulting in an ability of blood pressure control. The study’s results can be used as a guideline for solving problems and developed the hypertension surveillance and prevention which is a huge problem in the area. Additionally, this program can be applied to other sample groups following the health literacy and self-care policies and community health management which is a benefit to community development.

Participatory action research for promoting health of older adults in Ban Nong Prathum Community, Lumphli Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Natnapa Sasang — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The Participatory Action Research (PAR) aimed to develop a health promotion model for the elderly in the Nong Prathum community. Participants included 119 elderly members from the Nong Prathum Health Promotion Club, along with community leaders, elderly committee members, village heads, health staff, and local administrative officials. Data were collected from December 2023 to April 2024. Quantitative data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as inferential statistics using the paired t-test. Qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions and were analyzed using content analysis. The study found that 1) the community participation process in Ban Nong Prathum could systematically develop a model for promoting the health of the elderly through four phases: planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation; 2) the health situation of the elderly in the community had limitations in nutrition and exercise, but showed high mental and social strength, leading to 3) the development of a health promotion model in four areas: nutrition, exercise, mental and social care, and dementia prevention, which received concrete and sustainable cooperation from community network partners. A comparison of ADL scores before and after rehabilitation showed that all elderly groups had a statistically significant increase in ADL scores, especially the bedridden group (p < 0.001), reflecting the effectiveness of the rehabilitation process. The next step is to follow up on the outcomes of the health promotion model and the health status of the elderly within one year to assess its impact and sustainability. Continuous collection of both quantitative and qualitative data will be conducted to improve and expand the implementation to other communities in the future.

Nursing care of patients with septic shock in critical emergency situations: A case study

Nantadath Nantadath, Utthawit Jansiri — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Septic shock is a life-threatening emergency condition characterized by rapid progression and severe symptoms, commonly encountered in emergency departments with high mortality rates. Professional nurses play a crucial role in providing care for these patients, requiring specialized knowledge and skills. This case study aims to examine nursing care for patients with septic shock in emergency critical settings. The findings benefit clinical practice by establishing effective and safe nursing plans that increase survival rates and reduce complications, through evidence-based approaches and nursing process application. The study follows a 59-year-old Thai male who presented with fatigue, respiratory distress, and confusion, subsequently diagnosed with septic shock. The analysis addresses nursing problems and interventions across three phases: critical phase, post-critical phase, and pre-transfer phase from the emergency department. Through comprehensive care following the nursing process framework, the patient's vital signs were stabilized, allowing for safe transfer from the emergency department. This case demonstrates the essential role of systematic nursing assessment and evidence-based interventions in managing septic shock, highlighting the importance of timely recognition and appropriate care to improve patient outcomes in emergency settings.

Formulating of compounded Omeprazole oral suspension for pediatric patients in Phra Nakorn Si Ayutthaya Hospital

Krittaya Khanthapoke — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The standard formulation of omeprazole suspension using 8.4% sodium bicarbonate vehicle had an unpleasant taste, which affected the compliance of pediatric patients. Therefore, the researchers developed a formulation by adding chocolate syrup vehicle to improve the taste and studied the stability and quality of the developed formulations were evaluated through the preparation of five different suspension vehicles, consisted of 8.4% sodium bicarbonate 83.33, 66.66, 50.00, 33.33, and 16.66% v/v, adjusted to the final volume with chocolate syrup. The appropriate vehicle was selected based on its alkalinity (minimum pH of 7.8) and suitability as a suspension vehicle. The selected formula was then used to prepare 18 bottles of Omeprazole suspension for further analysis. Parameters assessed included API content, pH value, and physical stability under refrigerated storage conditions (2-8°C) at 0, 14, and 28 days. Additionally, a sensory evaluation was conducted with 20 volunteers to assess taste acceptability. The results demonstrated that the Omeprazole suspension developed using Formula 3 (8.4% sodium bicarbonate 50.00%) maintained its API content at 97.3%, 97.2%, and 97.3% at 0, 14, and 28 days, respectively. The pH values were stable at 8.1, 8.0, and 8.1 with no significant physical changes observed in any of the samples. Taste evaluation scores for the original and newly developed formulations were comparable, indicating improved palatability. In conclusion, the newly developed Omeprazole suspension formulation exhibits stability comparable to that of the original formulation under refrigerated storage conditions (2 - 8°C) for up to 28 days. Furthermore, the enhanced taste profile is expected to contribute to improved medication adherence in pediatric patients.

Administration management organization model of village health volunteers for health promotion, self-awareness, risk reduction, disease reduction, and health behavior modification under the Praboromarajchanok Institute model concept

Warakon Thapanya, Yutthana Yaebkai, Vichai Tienthavorn, Kridanai Srijai — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This descriptive research aimed to examine the administration management organization model of village health volunteers (VHVs) for health promotion, self-awareness, risk reduction, disease reduction, and health behavior modification under the Praboromarajchanok Institute model (PBRI model) concept. There were two steps to the research process,
as follows: 1) Factor analysis of the administration management organization model of VHVs for health promotion,
self-awareness, risk reduction, disease reduction, and health behavior modification. The sample consisted of 1,144 VHVs selected through systematic random sampling. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and exploratory factor analysis; and 2) Evaluation of the administration management organization model of VHVs for health promotion, self-awareness, risk reduction, disease reduction, and health behavior modification. The population consisted of 110 primary health care (PHC) network partners, all of whom were included using a census approach. Data was collected using evaluation forms that encompassed the entire population and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that the administration management organization model of VHVs for health promotion, self-awareness, risk reduction, disease reduction, and health behavior modification consisted of 3 components as follows: systems, structure, and style. Accordingly, the overall evaluation results indicated a high level of quality in terms of propriety, utility, feasibility, and accuracy.

Factors related to diabetes prevention and control performance of village health volunteers in Phetchabun Municipality

Archaree Khuanpeng, Saroj Nakju, Thavorn Maton — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to examine the diabetes prevention and control practices of village health volunteers (VHVs) in Phetchabun Municipality and to identify factors associated with their performance. The sample consisted of 124 VHVs. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire between January and April 2025. Descriptive statistics, including mean, percentage, and standard deviation, were used for data analysis. The chi-square test and Pearson's correlation coefficient were applied to determine the relationships between variables, with a statistical significance level set at 0.05. The results showed that the overall performance of VHVs in diabetes prevention and control was at a high level ( = 4.24, SD = 0.56). Attitude towards diabetes (r = 0.206, p = 0.022) and social support from public health officers (r = 0.690, p < 0.001) were significantly associated with the VHVs' performance. In contrast, personal factors showed no significant relationship with performance. The findings suggest that enhancing positive attitudes toward diabetes and increasing social support from public health personnel could improve the effectiveness of VHVs in diabetes prevention and control efforts.

The effect of using health behavior modification model on health literacy health behavior and fasting blood sugar level in type 2 Diabetic patients with uncontrolled glycemic Nong Muang District Lopburi Province

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Type 2 Diabetic patients with uncontrolled glycemic significantly increases the risk of complications and mortality. Traditional behavior modification programs often focus solely on diet, exercise, and stress management, lacking comprehensive health care and patient monitoring. This gap leads to reduced patient awareness and engagement, resulting in suboptimal glycemic control.Objective: To develop and assess a comprehensive health behavior modification model aimed at improving glycemic control among type 2 Diabetic patients with uncontrolled glycemic in Lopburi Province, Thailand.Methods: A randomized controlled trial (RCT) with pretest-posttest design was conducted. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (n = 30) or the control group (n = 30). The experimental group received a multifaceted intervention comprising:Health Education: Information on diabetes management, including diet, exercise, stress reduction, and self-monitoring. Behavioral Support: Regular follow-ups and motivational support to encourage adherence to self-care practices. Community Engagement: Involvement in group activities to enhance social support and reinforce behavior changes.The control group received standard care without additional interventions. Data were collected at baseline and after the intervention using questionnaires assessing health literacy, self-care behaviors, and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels. Paired t-tests compared pre- and post-intervention changes within groups, while independent t-tests assessed differences between groups.Results: Post-intervention, the experimental group demonstrated significant improvements:Health Literacy: Increased average scores, with a statistically significant difference (p<0.05).Self-Care Behaviors: Enhanced adherence to recommended health practices, showing a significant difference (p<0.05).Glycemic Control: Mean FBG levels decreased notably, with a significant difference (p<0.05).Comparing between groups, the experimental group exhibited higher health literacy and self-care behavior scores, and lower FBG levels than the control group, all with significant differences (p<0.05).Conclusion: Implementing a comprehensive health behavior modification model effectively enhances health literacy, self-care behaviors, and glycemic control among T2DM patients. It is recommended that healthcare providers adopt this approach, incorporating continuous support and monitoring to sustain behavior changes and improve disease management.

Survival rates and mortality risk factors in chronic hemodialysis patients in Chumphon Province, Thailand; a multicenter survival analysis study

Yingluk Watcharananan, Artit Indranoi — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The incidence of end-stage chronic kidney disease (ESKD) in Chumphon Province has been steadily increasing, leading to a rise in the number of patients undergoing renal replacement therapy, particularly hemodialysis. This research aims to investigate the survival rate of ESKD patients undergoing hemodialysis in Chumphon Province. The study employed a retrospective cohort design, involving new ESKD patients who underwent hemodialysis from October 1, 2018, to December 31, 2022. A total of 154 patients were included in the study, and their survival status was monitored until December 31, 2024. The survival rate was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method, with statistical testing performed by the log-rank test, and risk factors assessed using Cox regression. The results revealed that, during the study period, 51 patients (33.12%) had died in the cohort. The mortality rate was 12 deaths per 100 patient-years (95% CI 9-15.59). The median survival time was 5.4 years. The survival rates after hemodialysis at 1 year, 3 years, and 5 years were 89%, 73%, and 53%, respectively. Factors independently associated with mortality after multivariable adjustment, included 8 factors: age greater than or equal to sixty years old, weight greater than 60 kg, comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, the use of a central venous catheter for dialysis, cholesterol levels greater than 200 mg/dL, albumin levels less than 3.5 g/dL, and a dialysis adequacy (Kt/V) less than 1.2

The development of a rational prescribing pattern for antiplatelet drugs in patients with ischemic stroke at Inburi Hospital

Piyawat Rattanapan, Songprapha Rattanapan — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Ischemic stroke is a significant public health problem both in Thailand and worldwide, characterized by high incidence and mortality rates that substantial impacts on quality of life and healthcare costs. This study aimed to investigate the issues and current practices of antiplatelet prescribing, and to develop a model to promote rational antiplatelet use in patients with ischemic stroke at Inburi Hospital from 1 June 2023 to 31 March 2024. The research comprised four phases: (1) problem analysis and needs assessment through stakeholder interviews and literature review; (2) design and development of a rational antiplatelet prescribing model; (3) implementation and evaluation of the developed model; and (4) assessment and refinement of the model for suitability and readiness for broader application. The results demonstrated that the developed model significantly improved rational antiplatelet prescribing, increasing appropriateness from 29.17% to 95.92% (p < 0.001), reducing medication error rates by 25.93%, increasing physician acceptance of pharmacist recommendations to 90.91%, and achieving the highest level of staff satisfaction. Based on these findings, it is recommended to expand the implementation of this model to other problematic disease groups within the hospital to establish a quality patient care system.

Efficacy of lidocaine spray for pain relief during endometrial sampling: A double blind randomized controlled trial

Patom Jakkabut, Napafun Maneechot — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research aims to study the effectiveness of a 10% lidocaine spray for pain reduction during endometrial sampling using a Wallach Endocell. This randomized controlled trial was conducted at the gynecology outpatient department of Phrae Hospital from October 2023 to February 2024. The sample group consisted of 64 women with an indication for endometrial sampling. Participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group, which received a 10% lidocaine spray (40 mg, 4 sprays) to the cervical surface before the procedure, and the control group, which received a 0.9% saline spray. Pain was assessed using a 10 cm Visual Analogue Scale. Data collection tools included three parts: Part 1 for personal patient information, Part 2 for pain levels, and Part 3 for observing adverse drug reactions and monitoring for severe allergic reactions. The study found no significant differences in the general characteristics of the two groups. However, pain scores were significantly lower (p < 0.05) in the group that received the 10% lidocaine spray compared to the control group. Specifically, pain scores were 3.0 ± 1.3 and 3.8 ± 1.6, respectively, after tenaculum placement, and 3.0 ± 1.3 and 5.3 ± 1.9, respectively, during the tissue sampling, both of which were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Pain scores also remained significantly lower 15 minutes after the procedure. However, at 30 minutes post-procedure, there was no statistically significant difference in pain scores between the lidocaine group (0.22 ± 0.5) and the control group (0.5 ± 0.8) at the 0.05 level.

The development of model improving health literacy of rational drug use for sepsis prevention in community, Uthai Thani Province

Parawee Munsoom, Siriluk Ruenruay — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Sepsis is a substantial health burden with a high mortality rate. This research and development study aimed to create a literacy model in rational drug use to prevent sepsis. The study also examines the effects of implementing this literacy model in pilot areas, specifically at Rong Ta Tee Sub-district Health Promoting Hospital in Lan Sak District and Thung Pho
Sub-district Health Promoting Hospital in Nong Chang District, Uthai Thani Province. We collected data from meeting records, observations, monitoring, and evaluations of activities. We conducted the assessment using literacy evaluation tools, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. We performed a comparison of pre-and post-intervention results using a paired-sample t-test. The results revealed that, after six months of implementing the literacy model in the pilot areas, 374 participants selected through systematic random sampling showed a significant improvement in health literacy (p<0.001; pre-test 61.12±24.79, post-test 66.61±26.88). Consequently, applying the literacy model for rational drug use in preventing sepsis at the community level in Uthai Thani Province effectively enhanced health literacy. It also improved individuals’ skills in accessing, understanding, critically analyzing, and making informed decisions regarding rational drug use. Furthermore, participants communicated this knowledge to their families and communities, contributing to the prevention of sepsis, which remains a critical health concern in Uthai Thani Province.

Optimal dose of intravenous dexmedetomidine to prevent shivering in cesarean section under spinal anesthesia: A randomized controlled trial

Nutnicha Thongthaweeporn — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Shivering is a common complication during anesthesia that causes patient discomfort, interferes with vital signs monitoring, and increases the risk of perioperative myocardial ischemia. This randomized controlled trial aimed to determine the optimal intravenous dexmedetomidine dose for preventing shivering in patients undergoing cesarean section under spinal anesthesia and to evaluate its adverse effects. A total of 140 parturient aged 18-45 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-II scheduled for elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia between June and August 2025 were randomly allocated into three groups: N group (n = 30) received dexmedetomidine 0.75 µg/kg, L group (n = 55) received dexmedetomidine 10 µg, and C group (n = 55) received normal saline at the same infusion rate. The incidence of shivering, vital signs, sedation scores, and adverse effects were observed intraoperatively and in the recovery room. Shivering occurred in 1 patient (3.3%) in the N group, which was significantly lower than in 12 patients (21.8%) in the L group (p = 0.024). However, both treatment groups were significantly effective in reducing shivering compared with the control group, in which shivering occurred in 23 patients (41.8%) (p < 0.001 and p = 0.024, respectively). Bradycardia occurred significantly more often in the N group. Hypotension occurred in all groups. A dose of 0.75 µg/kg is recommended for the prevention of intraoperative shivering in this setting, as it is significantly more effective than lower doses (p = 0.024).

Knowledge and leadership of the sub-districts health promoting hospital director in preventing the spread of Coronavirus 2019 based on COVID-Free setting, Lopburi Province

Mano Maneechay, Bunnaris Saisum, Surin Maneechay — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This research is a descriptive study aimed to examine the knowledge and leadership qualities in the management of organizations to prevent the spread of the 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19), according to the COVID Free Setting measures for organizations. The study focused on directors of sub-district health-promoting hospitals under the Lopburi Provincial Public Health Office. A questionnaire was used as the research tool. The population studied included 123 directors or acting directors of sub-district health-promoting hospitals in Lopburi Province. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency, percentage, mean, and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The results revealed that the sample group had a high overall level of knowledge about COVID-19, very high overall leadership qualities, and a good overall level of compliance with the COVID Free Setting measures for organizations (μ = 2.89, σ = 0.18). The recommendation is to promote the implementation of COVID Free Setting measures in all units to serve as a guideline for monitoring and preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infectious diseases in the future.

Health literacy and factors associated with breast self-examination behavior among at-risk women in Khao Rup Chang Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla District, Songkhla Province

Yaowalak Teanuan, Patchanok Rattanakornpreeda — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Breast cancer is a major public health concern and a primary cause of mortality among women globally. Early detection through breast self-examination (BSE) is a crucial strategy. This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to investigate the level of breast cancer health literacy and its association with breast self-examination behavior among 400 at-risk women in Khao Rup Chang Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla District, Songkhla Province. The data collected were analyzed using a validated questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics and Spearman’s Rank Correlation Coefficient. The results showed that most women had a moderate level of breast cancer health literacy ( = 3.52, SD = 0.78), but 60% showed inadequate knowledge about BSE. Despite having a positive attitude towards BSE (84.25%), only 57.5% of participants engaged in regular BSE behavior and only 29.50% performed the correct technique. Social support had the strongest positive correlation with BSE behavior (r_s = 0.79, p < 0.01), followed by health literacy (r_s = 0.66, p < 0.01). Knowledge and attitude also had a weak positive correlation with BSE behavior (r_s = 0.37, r_s = 0.22, p < 0.01). The findings suggest that continuous efforts should be made to improve health literacy and practical skills through demonstrations and hands-on training, along with strengthening community-based social support, to enhance the long-term effectiveness of BSE and promote early breast cancer detection.

Prevalence and associated factors of BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations according to genetic testing indications in breast cancer patients at Maha Vajiralongkorn Thanyaburi Hospital

Suriya Khueachanta, Watcharee Siripin — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer caused by BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations is a significant health problem, with mutation carriers having significantly higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer compared to the general population. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations and their association with genetic testing indications in breast cancer patients. A descriptive study was conducted among 174 female breast cancer patients receiving treatment at Maha Vajiralongkorn Thanyaburi Hospital from October 20, 2022 to December 31, 2024. Data were analyzed using Chi-square test. The study found 19 cases with BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations, representing a prevalence rate of 10.9%, comprising 13 BRCA1 mutations (7.5%) and 6 BRCA2 mutations (3.4%). Genetic testing indications significantly associated with mutations included having multiple primary breast cancers in patients aged 46 - 50 years (p = 0.027), specific family history in patients aged 50 years or older (p = 0.043), and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) (p = 0.006). TNBC patients had a mutation rate of 17.4% compared to 4.5% in non-TNBC patients, and patients with negative estrogen receptor had a mutation rate of 14.7% compared to 3.2% in patients with positive estrogen receptor (p = 0.018). This study demonstrates a BRCA gene mutation prevalence consistent with other studies and genetic testing indications can effectively screen high-risk patients.

An evaluation of enforcement of the occupational diseases and environmental diseases control act B.E. 2562 in workplace

Rachaneekorn Weeracharoen — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The Occupational and Environmental Disease Control Act B.E 2562 (A.D. 2019) strengthens and enhances occupational health activities in the country. However, this law is still unfamiliar to practice. This study aims to evaluate the enforcement of the Act in the context of occupational disease control and prevention in workplaces, identify obstacles and opportunities for improvement, and provide suggestions to workplaces for complying with the law. The method includes analyzing and comparing legislation, assessing workplace awareness, comprehension, and implementation readiness, and conducting in-depth stakeholder interviews. The findings indicate that the Act's key features include coverage of environmental diseases, occupational health for informal workers, and the establishment of standards for occupational and environmental medicine service units. The current implementation faces gaps that require improvement, such as insufficient budget and inadequate personnel capacity. Capacity-building and public awareness campaigns are crucial for strengthening law enforcement. 64.3 percent of workplaces demonstrated a very high level of understanding of the Act. The establishments have begun preparing for implementation. This is a preliminary pilot study conducted only in a workplace context and does not include all relevant stakeholder perspectives or a comprehensive qualitative evaluation. Future studies should be conducted to cover all stakeholder groups and provide a more thorough qualitative assessment of implementation.

Using surveillance system evaluation to develop an influenza surveillance system for strengthened disease prevention and control at Bang Pahan Hospital, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Wipawee Ketwang — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the influenza surveillance system at Bang Pahan Hospital and to develop an automated alert system using the Telegram application to enhance disease prevention and control. This developmental research applied an action research framework combined with a quasi-experimental before–after design. Data from the pre-development phase (June 1, 2021 – May 31, 2022) were compared with the post-development phase (June 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025). The intervention involved developing an automated alert system (Telegram Bot) integrated with the hospital information system (HOSxP) to identify suspected influenza cases based on surveillance case definitions. Quantitative surveillance attributes, including sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and timeliness, were analyzed, along with qualitative attributes such as acceptability, simplicity, and stability. Statistical analyses were conducted using the chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann–Whitney U test. After implementation, the surveillance system showed significant improvements. Sensitivity increased from 4.78% to 42.16% (p < 0.001), and the PPV increased from 23.81% to 91.21% (p < 0.001). The average reporting time significantly decreased from 3.76 days to 1.55 days (p < 0.001). Qualitative findings indicated improved staff acceptance of the system, with knowledge transfer, standard operating procedures, and operational coordination reaching 100% acceptance (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the automated alert system significantly improved influenza surveillance performance by increasing case detection, reducing reporting delays, and strengthening rapid response capacity. This digital surveillance model represents a practical and scalable approach for improving infectious disease surveillance systems in community hospitals.

The effects of a Depression prevention program on lower secondary school students in Tha Luang District, Lopburi Province

Warakorn Kamnoy, Anchalee Songparsouk — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This quasi-experimental research aimed to examine the effects of a depression prevention program integrating emotional intelligence skills among lower secondary school students in Tha Luang District, Lopburi Province. The sample was purposively selected based on depression risk criteria (positive 2Q screening and 9Q scores between 7 and 18), comprising 74 students divided equally into an experimental group (n = 37) and a control group (n = 37). The experimental group participated in a 5-session depression prevention program over 8 weeks, while the control group received routine care. Content validity was confirmed by experts with Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) indices ranging from 0.67 to 0.87, and internal consistency reliability was 0.85. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired t-test, independent t-test, and Chi-square test. The results showed no statistically significant differences between the two groups prior to the intervention regarding the proportion of depression risk, emotional intelligence scores, and depression severity scores (p > 0.05). Post-intervention, the experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant increase in mean emotional intelligence scores compared to baseline (p < 0.001) and significantly higher scores than the control group (p < 0.001). Regarding depression, the proportion of students at risk in the experimental group decreased from 48.65% to 21.62%, with a statistically significant reduction in mean depression severity scores (9Q) both within the group (p < 0.001) and compared to the control group (p < 0.001). In contrast, the control group showed no statistically significant changes (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the depression prevention program integrating emotional intelligence skills effectively enhances emotional intelligence and reduces depression severity among lower secondary school students, serving as a proactive mental health intervention model for educational settings.

Investigation of a silicosis case in the concrete pipe manufacturing establishment in Pathum Thani Province, 29 - 30 January 2024

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

On January 8, 2024, the Office of Disease Prevention and Control 4, Saraburi, in collaboration with the Pathum Thani Provincial Public Health Office and relevant local agencies, conducted an investigation of a confirmed case of silicosis in a 52-year-old male worker. The objectives were to confirm the diagnosis, describe disease characteristics from silica exposure, identify causal risk factors, and propose preventive measures. A descriptive epidemiological study was conducted, involving medical record review, case finding, environmental assessment, and silica crystalline dust sampling. Personal air sampling pumps were used, and analysis was performed using NIOSH Method No. 7601. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, and volume percentage (%volume) were used for data analysis. The index case was a concrete pipe finishing worker with
28 years of work experience. Chest X-rays were evaluated using the ILO International Classification of Radiographs of Pneumoconioses and revealed abnormalities at Profusion 2/1. The diagnosis was interstitial pulmonary disease, unspecified, and work-related silicosis. Additional case finding identified three more workers with lung abnormalities, though none were conclusively diagnosed with silicosis by specialists. The work environment was a high-roof steel structure with a concrete floor, consisting of three main areas: concrete mixing, production, and quality inspection. The concrete pipe production process involved seven steps. Health risk assessment showed the highest risk in the dry finishing process, where workers used sandstone to smooth the pipe surfaces by hand, resulting in prolonged silica dust exposure. Air sampling results revealed silica dust concentrations exceeding occupational exposure limits. Physicians recommended job reassignment to reduce silica exposure, strict adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE) use, and regular surveillance of at-risk workers through annual chest radiographs and pulmonary function tests. Additional control measures included using water mist to suppress silica dust at source tools and installing vacuum dust extraction systems attached to grinding equipment.

Preliminary risk management system for work-related fatigue among shift workers in the industrial context of Thailand: A review article

Arutchaporn Chiamchunya, Kunakorn Sinthoppong — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 00:00:00 +0700

Shift workers play a significant role in Thailand’s industrial development. However, shift work has been associated with various adverse health effects, particularly work-related fatigue. The literature indicates that work-related fatigue can be attributed to two main group of factors (1) individual factors, especially poor sleep quality, and (2) work-related factors, including shift schedules, workload intensity, and suboptimal working conditions. Work-related fatigue poses substantial risks in several areas. From a health standpoint, it contributes to circadian rhythm disturbances, increases vulnerability to non-communicable diseases, and is associated with mental health problems. In terms of occupational safety, fatigue increases the probability of workplace accidents. Additionally, it impairs work performance and reduces productivity. To address these concerns, Fatigue Risk Management System (FRMS) is proposed as a structured, evidence-based workplace intervention. Core components of an FRMS include workload management, shift design, employee educational programs, sleep disorder management, improvements to the work environment, and assessment of workers’ fitness for duty. Although the FRMS is not currently mandated under Thai occupational safety regulations, its implementation in the workplace is recommended. It offers a proactive approach to mitigating fatigue among shift workers, strengthens occupational health and safety standards, and enhances overall worker well-being in alignment with sustainable development goals.