This study aimed to assess the Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) among Tuberculosis (TB) patients and investigate the association between HRQoL and its associated factors to inform patient-centred care.
Study design
Cross-Sectional study.
Methods
A structured questionnaire was employed to TB patients attending 23 Direct Observation Treatment System (DOTS) centres in the Lalitpur district. HRQoL was measured using the WHOQOL tool, and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with poor HRQoL.
Results
The findings of this study revealed that chronic disease was significantly associated with poor psychological (adjOR = 0.07, 95 % CI: 0.03–0.14) and physical functioning scores (adjOR = 0.45, 95 % CI: 0.23–0.89). Being married enhanced physical functioning (adjOR = 2.12, 95 % CI: 1.19–3.79), while lower education levels negatively affected physical functioning (adjOR = 0.78, 95 % CI: 0.31–0.82).
Conclusions
Chronic comorbidities, MDR-TB, and socioeconomic disadvantage were key determinants of poor HRQoL among TB patients. Interventions addressing both clinical and sociodemographic factors such as integrated care for chronic disease, psychosocial support, and targeted social assistance may help improve quality of life and reduce disparities among patients with tuberculosis.
{"title":"Quality of life among tuberculosis patients in Lalitpur, Nepal: A cross-sectional study","authors":"Rewati Raj Karki , Bhawani Katwal , Nirmal Sapkota , Amanuel Yosef , Nirmal Gautam","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100712","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100712","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aimed to assess the Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) among Tuberculosis (TB) patients and investigate the association between HRQoL and its associated factors to inform patient-centred care.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>Cross-Sectional study.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A structured questionnaire was employed to TB patients attending 23 Direct Observation Treatment System (DOTS) centres in the Lalitpur district. HRQoL was measured using the WHOQOL tool, and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors associated with poor HRQoL.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The findings of this study revealed that chronic disease was significantly associated with poor psychological (adjOR = 0.07, 95 % CI: 0.03–0.14) and physical functioning scores (adjOR = 0.45, 95 % CI: 0.23–0.89). Being married enhanced physical functioning (adjOR = 2.12, 95 % CI: 1.19–3.79), while lower education levels negatively affected physical functioning (adjOR = 0.78, 95 % CI: 0.31–0.82).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Chronic comorbidities, MDR-TB, and socioeconomic disadvantage were key determinants of poor HRQoL among TB patients. Interventions addressing both clinical and sociodemographic factors such as integrated care for chronic disease, psychosocial support, and targeted social assistance may help improve quality of life and reduce disparities among patients with tuberculosis.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100712"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145798987","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100718
Anna C. Reinwarth , Julia Petersen , Manfred E. Beutel , Kerstin Weidner , Vera Clemens , Elmar Brähler
Objectives
Empirical evidence increasingly highlights the importance of general self-efficacy (GEF) in preventing disease and promoting quality of life. While it is already known that GEF varies with socio-demographic factors, health variables and personality traits, little is known about the influence of socio-political context. The objective of the study was to examine and compare GEF between 2014 and 2022 in East and West Germany and to test differences regarding sex.
Study design
In 2014 (N = 2506) and 2022 (N = 2508), two large representative cohorts from the German general population were surveyed about their GEF using the General Self-Efficacy Short Scale (ASKU).
Methods
A three-way ANCOVA were calculated to test the effect of region of residence, survey date, and sex controlling for age on GEF in a combined sample (N = 5014).
Results
There was a significant decrease in GEF between 2014 and 2022. Women reported lower GEF than men. A statistically significant interaction was found between survey date and sex and between survey date, region of residence and sex on GEF. Almost the same patterns were observed for the ability to solve difficult and complex tasks well, with the exception, that men in East Germany reported an increase in the ability to solve difficult and complex tasks well from 2014 to 2022. The ability to solve most problems independently and to solve challenging and complex tasks well was mainly influenced by education and household income, rather than by the date of the survey, the region of residence or sex.
Conclusion
Although regional differences in GEF were minimal, more pronounced variations emerged across sex and socioeconomic groups. These patterns likely stem from historical socio-political legacies and structural inequalities, potentially amplified by the impact of COVID-19 restrictions.
{"title":"General self-efficacy in East and West Germany: A comparison of two German representative cohorts in 2014 and 2022","authors":"Anna C. Reinwarth , Julia Petersen , Manfred E. Beutel , Kerstin Weidner , Vera Clemens , Elmar Brähler","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100718","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100718","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Empirical evidence increasingly highlights the importance of general self-efficacy (GEF) in preventing disease and promoting quality of life. While it is already known that GEF varies with socio-demographic factors, health variables and personality traits, little is known about the influence of socio-political context. The objective of the study was to examine and compare GEF between 2014 and 2022 in East and West Germany and to test differences regarding sex.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>In 2014 (N = 2506) and 2022 (N = 2508), two large representative cohorts from the German general population were surveyed about their GEF using the General Self-Efficacy Short Scale (ASKU).</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A three-way ANCOVA were calculated to test the effect of region of residence, survey date, and sex controlling for age on GEF in a combined sample (N = 5014).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>There was a significant decrease in GEF between 2014 and 2022. Women reported lower GEF than men. A statistically significant interaction was found between survey date and sex and between survey date, region of residence and sex on GEF. Almost the same patterns were observed for the ability to solve difficult and complex tasks well, with the exception, that men in East Germany reported an increase in the ability to solve difficult and complex tasks well from 2014 to 2022. The ability to solve most problems independently and to solve challenging and complex tasks well was mainly influenced by education and household income, rather than by the date of the survey, the region of residence or sex.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Although regional differences in GEF were minimal, more pronounced variations emerged across sex and socioeconomic groups. These patterns likely stem from historical socio-political legacies and structural inequalities, potentially amplified by the impact of COVID-19 restrictions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100718"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939303","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
To assess secular trends in learning about dangers of tobacco products use at school (LADTAS) using the Panama Global Youth Tobacco Surveys 2002, 2008, 2012, 2017 and 2023.-
Study design
We analysed nationally representative data from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) cross-sectional studies conducted in Panama in 2002, 2008, 2012, 2017, and 2023 among students aged 13–15 years.
Methods
The key indicator was self-reported learning about dangers of tobacco products use at school in the past 12 months. Weighted proportions and logistic regression models were used to examine trends and correlates, adjusting for age, sex, and tobacco use status.
Results
The proportion of students reporting LADTAS declined from 64.6 % in 2002 to 55.0 % in 2023. Compared with 2002–2008, students surveyed from 2012 onwards had higher odds of not receiving tobacco education (adjusted OR 1.44; 95 % CI 1.31–1.59). No significant differences were observed by sex or age. Former tobacco users were less likely than never-users to report receiving instruction (adjusted OR 1.40; 95 % CI 1.23–1.59).
Conclusions
Despite Panama's comprehensive tobacco control policies, classroom education on tobacco risks has declined over the past two decades. Reinvestment in systematic, multi-year, and up-to-date curricula—including coverage of emerging products—is needed to complement structural measures and sustain progress toward a tobacco-free generation.
{"title":"Gaps in learning about dangers of tobacco products use at school amid comprehensive tobacco control in Panama. Results from the Global Youth Tobacco Surveys 2002, 2008, 2012, 2017, and 2023","authors":"Hedley Knewjen Quintana , Flavio Figueroa , Cecilio Niño , Roger Montenegro , Fulvia Bajura , Bernardo González , Reina Roa","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100720","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100720","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>To assess secular trends in learning about dangers of tobacco products use at school (LADTAS) using the Panama Global Youth Tobacco Surveys 2002, 2008, 2012, 2017 and 2023.-</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>We analysed nationally representative data from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) cross-sectional studies conducted in Panama in 2002, 2008, 2012, 2017, and 2023 among students aged 13–15 years.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The key indicator was self-reported learning about dangers of tobacco products use at school in the past 12 months. Weighted proportions and logistic regression models were used to examine trends and correlates, adjusting for age, sex, and tobacco use status.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The proportion of students reporting LADTAS declined from 64.6 % in 2002 to 55.0 % in 2023. Compared with 2002–2008, students surveyed from 2012 onwards had higher odds of not receiving tobacco education (adjusted OR 1.44; 95 % CI 1.31–1.59). No significant differences were observed by sex or age. Former tobacco users were less likely than never-users to report receiving instruction (adjusted OR 1.40; 95 % CI 1.23–1.59).</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>Despite Panama's comprehensive tobacco control policies, classroom education on tobacco risks has declined over the past two decades. Reinvestment in systematic, multi-year, and up-to-date curricula—including coverage of emerging products—is needed to complement structural measures and sustain progress toward a tobacco-free generation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100720"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939307","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-17DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100711
Gabor Kertes , Andrew Robertson , Lisa Ackerley , Maria Brink Liljeberg , Christina Swedmark , Adrian Shephard , Thomas Bosch , Anders Miki Bojesen , Jessica Carreño Louro , Michele Calabró , Dorota Sienkiewicz , Pikka Jokelainen , Marianne Bengtsson , Lisbeth Thyregod , Nina Sønderberg , Charan Nelander , Lars Münter
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent, growing pandemic of global proportions and impact. This commentary encourages relevant stakeholders to increase their joint commitment to collaboration and systemic action, dedicated antibiotic stewardship and health literacy including a stronger, evidence-based self-care to contribute to solving the AMR challenge. Key factors such as the removal of inadequate access to antibiotics, e.g. over-the-counter (OTC) sale of antibiotics, improving self-care and hygiene can help fight the increasing burden of AMR. Along with the increase in health care literacy, these measures can be implemented swiftly to combat the growing rate of AMR development.
{"title":"Enhancing antimicrobial stewardship and health literacy in Europe – moving forward through education and empowerment","authors":"Gabor Kertes , Andrew Robertson , Lisa Ackerley , Maria Brink Liljeberg , Christina Swedmark , Adrian Shephard , Thomas Bosch , Anders Miki Bojesen , Jessica Carreño Louro , Michele Calabró , Dorota Sienkiewicz , Pikka Jokelainen , Marianne Bengtsson , Lisbeth Thyregod , Nina Sønderberg , Charan Nelander , Lars Münter","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100711","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100711","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a silent, growing pandemic of global proportions and impact. This commentary encourages relevant stakeholders to increase their joint commitment to collaboration and systemic action, dedicated antibiotic stewardship and health literacy including a stronger, evidence-based self-care to contribute to solving the AMR challenge. Key factors such as the removal of inadequate access to antibiotics, e.g. over-the-counter (OTC) sale of antibiotics, improving self-care and hygiene can help fight the increasing burden of AMR. Along with the increase in health care literacy, these measures can be implemented swiftly to combat the growing rate of AMR development.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100711"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939398","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Risky drinking (RD) is a major health hazard in Sri Lanka. Alcohol brief intervention (BI) has been proven effective in minimizing RD but has not been utilised in Sri Lanka. We therefore aimed to adapt the WHO alcohol BI and targeted educational material to Sri Lanka, assess their feasibility and acceptability and evaluate appropriateness of methodology and measures for a future RCT.
Study design
A three-arm parallel-group pilot RCT.
Methods
The BI was adapted based on expert feedback. The study included male inpatients (with AUDIT-C screening score ≥5) of a tertiary hospital. The three study arms were: adapted brief intervention (ABI), education about unit of alcohol (UOA), and feedback on screening results (FOA). Trained research assistants (RAs) screened and implemented the interventions. We report on follow-up rates (feasibility), participant and RA feedback (acceptability), recruitment efficiency and data quality (methodological appropriateness), and appropriateness of outcome measures.
Results
The ABI included a structured training manual for implementers, an alcohol information leaflet, and a personal information sheet. Patient follow-up rates were 69 %, 40 % and 71 % for FOA, UOA and ABI arms respectively. Family member recruitment was 31 %. Patient and RA feedback for ABI was overwhelmingly positive. Many patients were abstinent at baseline (37.5 %) and follow-up (75.9 %), mainly due to health concerns. FMQ revealed high ‘total family burden’. Patients struggled with TLFB recall. High childhood adversity prevalence (95.7 %) and low alcohol knowledge were observed.
Conclusions
The ABI demonstrated high acceptability among patients and RAs. All three interventions could be trialled in a future RCT. All measures except TLFB proved appropriate. Our innovative approach of evaluating outcomes from family members' perspectives proved feasible and valuable. The inpatient setting was not appropriate, rather a setting where patients continue their day-to-day activities, including usual drinking, should be considered in a future RCT.
{"title":"Feasibility and acceptability of an adapted WHO alcohol brief intervention: Pilot of a three-armed randomized trial in Sri Lanka","authors":"Dewasmika Ariyasinghe , Sally Carter , Cathy Banwell , Buddhima Lokuge , Thilini Rajapakse , Grace Joshy , Kamalini Lokuge","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100704","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100704","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Risky drinking (RD) is a major health hazard in Sri Lanka. Alcohol brief intervention (BI) has been proven effective in minimizing RD but has not been utilised in Sri Lanka. We therefore aimed to adapt the WHO alcohol BI and targeted educational material to Sri Lanka, assess their feasibility and acceptability and evaluate appropriateness of methodology and measures for a future RCT.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>A three-arm parallel-group pilot RCT.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The BI was adapted based on expert feedback. The study included male inpatients (with AUDIT-C screening score ≥5) of a tertiary hospital. The three study arms were: adapted brief intervention (ABI), education about unit of alcohol (UOA), and feedback on screening results (FOA). Trained research assistants (RAs) screened and implemented the interventions. We report on follow-up rates (feasibility), participant and RA feedback (acceptability), recruitment efficiency and data quality (methodological appropriateness), and appropriateness of outcome measures.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The ABI included a structured training manual for implementers, an alcohol information leaflet, and a personal information sheet. Patient follow-up rates were 69 %, 40 % and 71 % for FOA, UOA and ABI arms respectively. Family member recruitment was 31 %. Patient and RA feedback for ABI was overwhelmingly positive. Many patients were abstinent at baseline (37.5 %) and follow-up (75.9 %), mainly due to health concerns. FMQ revealed high ‘total family burden’. Patients struggled with TLFB recall. High childhood adversity prevalence (95.7 %) and low alcohol knowledge were observed.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The ABI demonstrated high acceptability among patients and RAs. All three interventions could be trialled in a future RCT. All measures except TLFB proved appropriate. Our innovative approach of evaluating outcomes from family members' perspectives proved feasible and valuable. The inpatient setting was not appropriate, rather a setting where patients continue their day-to-day activities, including usual drinking, should be considered in a future RCT.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100704"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145841110","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-15DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100692
K. Kennedy , A. Barnes , A. Formby , N. Pleace , K. Pybus , K. Brain , F. Phillips
Objectives
To rapidly review evidence of public health, wellbeing, and/or inequality outcomes of different supported housing schemes, with a focus on identifying relevant lessons from the evidence for local government in England.
Study design
Rapid evidence review.
Methods
Peer reviewed qualitative, quantitative and/or mixed methods studies were identified for review. Databases (EMBASE, ASSIA) were searched in September–October 2024. A two-phase screening and selection process was conducted, with papers sifted and ranked for relevance. Data on outcomes, factors, and implications of supported housing related to public health, wellbeing and/or inequality was extracted from papers ranked of highest relevance.
Results
Six key findings were identified: 1) health outcomes (e.g. symptom management, hospitalisation rates) in supported housing vary by type of support and population; 2) there are varied understandings of ‘successful’ outcomes for people who access supported housing: success depends on who is being supported and in what types of supported housing; 3) quality of life outcomes relate to how supported housing is operated and governed, and how support is provided; 4) the quality of the environment (physical housing, social and community) is critical to rehabilitation, life progression and health and wellbeing outcomes; 5) autonomy is clearly linked to resident experience, life progression and health and wellbeing outcomes; and 6) approaches to support and care are currently not addressing all needs nor promoting ‘successful’ care. Trust and relationships are key aspects to building successful care.
Conclusions
As supported housing has been opaque historically in what it is, definitions, and what it is for, this has consequences for the system – therefore we need to be clearer about what the benefits are, and what realistic goals for supported housing should be. Three ways local government in England can improve supported housing are: 1) local government could usefully approach supported housing as a public health asset and link with relevant parties and leverage partnerships to affect change locally; 2) as supported housing is part of a complicated wider local system of service delivery, complexity-informed evaluation is needed to evaluate appropriate outcomes for populations or individuals accessing supported housing; and 3) because care and support approaches do not currently meet all needs, strategic action is needed in the supported housing sector to address both quality (e.g. undertrained staff) and quantity issues (e.g. insufficient amounts of care provided).
{"title":"Rapid review: Three ways local government could improve inequality, public health and wellbeing outcomes in supported housing in England","authors":"K. Kennedy , A. Barnes , A. Formby , N. Pleace , K. Pybus , K. Brain , F. Phillips","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100692","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100692","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To rapidly review evidence of public health, wellbeing, and/or inequality outcomes of different supported housing schemes, with a focus on identifying relevant lessons from the evidence for local government in England.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>Rapid evidence review.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Peer reviewed qualitative, quantitative and/or mixed methods studies were identified for review. Databases (EMBASE, ASSIA) were searched in September–October 2024. A two-phase screening and selection process was conducted, with papers sifted and ranked for relevance. Data on outcomes, factors, and implications of supported housing related to public health, wellbeing and/or inequality was extracted from papers ranked of highest relevance.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Six key findings were identified: 1) health outcomes (e.g. symptom management, hospitalisation rates) in supported housing vary by type of support and population; 2) there are varied understandings of ‘successful’ outcomes for people who access supported housing: success depends on who is being supported and in what types of supported housing; 3) quality of life outcomes relate to how supported housing is operated and governed, and how support is provided; 4) the quality of the environment (physical housing, social and community) is critical to rehabilitation, life progression and health and wellbeing outcomes; 5) autonomy is clearly linked to resident experience, life progression and health and wellbeing outcomes; and 6) approaches to support and care are currently not addressing all needs nor promoting ‘successful’ care. Trust and relationships are key aspects to building successful care.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>As supported housing has been opaque historically in what it is, definitions, and what it is for, this has consequences for the system – therefore we need to be clearer about what the benefits are, and what realistic goals for supported housing should be. Three ways local government in England can improve supported housing are: 1) local government could usefully approach supported housing as a public health asset and link with relevant parties and leverage partnerships to affect change locally; 2) as supported housing is part of a complicated wider local system of service delivery, complexity-informed evaluation is needed to evaluate appropriate outcomes for populations or individuals accessing supported housing; and 3) because care and support approaches do not currently meet all needs, strategic action is needed in the supported housing sector to address both quality (e.g. undertrained staff) and quantity issues (e.g. insufficient amounts of care provided).</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100692"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939305","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-15DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100685
Maria Świątkiewicz-Mośny , Magdalena Ślusarczyk , Natalia Ożegalska-Łukasik , Małgorzata Bała , Anna Prokop-Dorner , Aleksandra Piłat-Kobla , Aleksandra Potysz-Rzyman , Marianna Zarychta , Katarzyna Zawisza
Objectives
Health literacy (HL) is a valuable competence with links to both individual and collective well-being. As of 2016, the WHO recognises HL as a key determinant of health and identifies the need to build and develop health competencies, particularly among children and young people as one of the ways to reduce social inequalities. The objective of our cross-sectional study is to investigate the relationship between family social capital and critical thinking about health among primary school students aged 11 to 15 from the south of Poland and to identify the individual, family-related, and school-related determinants of their health literacy. There are a lot of studies on HL also studies that show HL of children and adolescents. However, our research focuses on investigation on critical thinking about health as the ability to critically evaluate health practices seems to be a key skill in postpandemic world.
Study design
School-based cross-sectional survey conducted in 2023 among 303 primary school students (grades 6–8) in southern Poland.
Methods
We used the Polish version of validated Claims Evaluation Tool (CET) from the Informed Health Choices project, incorporating socioeconomic indicators and Health Literacy for School-Age Children (HLSAC-10) from HBSC Network test validated in Poland. The questions were translated into Polish, culturally adapted, and validated. The claims were selected due to their adequacy and reliability.
Results
Initial findings from CET survey suggest a correlation, with varying strength, between health literacy scores and parental education, individual living space ownership, leisure activities (e.g., holiday affordability), and participation in extra-curricular activities. These results underscore the influence of socioeconomic status on health-related decisions and coping mechanisms, which are of particular relevance in the current infodemic.
Conclusions
We conclude that health disparities arise from differences in social status, emphasizing the importance of health literacy in mitigating such disparities and shaping overall health outcomes.
{"title":"Unraveling the link: Socioeconomic status and health literacy among students in primary schools in the South Macroregion of Poland","authors":"Maria Świątkiewicz-Mośny , Magdalena Ślusarczyk , Natalia Ożegalska-Łukasik , Małgorzata Bała , Anna Prokop-Dorner , Aleksandra Piłat-Kobla , Aleksandra Potysz-Rzyman , Marianna Zarychta , Katarzyna Zawisza","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100685","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100685","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>Health literacy (HL) is a valuable competence with links to both individual and collective well-being. As of 2016, the WHO recognises HL as a key determinant of health and identifies the need to build and develop health competencies, particularly among children and young people as one of the ways to reduce social inequalities. The objective of our cross-sectional study is to investigate the relationship between family social capital and critical thinking about health among primary school students aged 11 to 15 from the south of Poland and to identify the individual, family-related, and school-related determinants of their health literacy. There are a lot of studies on HL also studies that show HL of children and adolescents. However, our research focuses on investigation on critical thinking about health as the ability to critically evaluate health practices seems to be a key skill in postpandemic world.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>School-based cross-sectional survey conducted in 2023 among 303 primary school students (grades 6–8) in southern Poland.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>We used the Polish version of validated Claims Evaluation Tool (CET) from the Informed Health Choices project, incorporating socioeconomic indicators and Health Literacy for School-Age Children (HLSAC-10) from HBSC Network test validated in Poland. The questions were translated into Polish, culturally adapted, and validated. The claims were selected due to their adequacy and reliability.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Initial findings from CET survey suggest a correlation, with varying strength, between health literacy scores and parental education, individual living space ownership, leisure activities (e.g., holiday affordability), and participation in extra-curricular activities. These results underscore the influence of socioeconomic status on health-related decisions and coping mechanisms, which are of particular relevance in the current infodemic.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>We conclude that health disparities arise from differences in social status, emphasizing the importance of health literacy in mitigating such disparities and shaping overall health outcomes.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100685"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078028","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-14DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100688
Xin Yang , Chuan-ping Feng , Zhuo Liu , Ping Wu
Objectives
To evaluate the global, regional, and national burden and temporal trends of depression among women of childbearing age (WCBA) from 1990 to 2021, and to identify major risk factors contributing to its disease burden.
Study design
Population-based trend analysis.
Methods
Data on prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of depression in WCBA were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database, covering 204 countries and territories. Age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) and age-standardized death rate (ASDR) were analyzed using estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). Inequality, decomposition, and frontier analyses were conducted to explore geographic disparities, drivers of burden changes, and potential for improvement.
Results
Between 1990 and 2021, the global ASPR of depression among WCBA increased from 5545.28 to 6173.45 per 100,000 population (1.33 % increase), with the largest rise observed in high-SDI regions. High-income North America recorded the highest ASPR in 2021 (10,443.59 per 100,000), whereas East Asia had the lowest (3700.00 per 100,000). The ASDR demonstrated heterogeneous patterns, with overall declines but recent increases since 2019. Major risk factors in 2021 included behavioral risks, child sexual abuse, bullying victimization, and intimate partner violence, with substantial regional variation. Decomposition analysis indicated that population growth was the dominant driver of increased DALYs.
Conclusions
The global burden of depression among WCBA has risen over the past three decades, with pronounced disparities across regions and SDI levels. High-income countries continue to face growing challenges, while inequalities persist despite narrowing trends. These findings underscore the urgent need for region-specific, gender-sensitive strategies to improve prevention and mental health care for WCBA worldwide.
{"title":"Global burden and trends of depression among women of childbearing age, 1990–2021","authors":"Xin Yang , Chuan-ping Feng , Zhuo Liu , Ping Wu","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100688","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100688","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>To evaluate the global, regional, and national burden and temporal trends of depression among women of childbearing age (WCBA) from 1990 to 2021, and to identify major risk factors contributing to its disease burden.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>Population-based trend analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Data on prevalence, incidence, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of depression in WCBA were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 database, covering 204 countries and territories. Age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) and age-standardized death rate (ASDR) were analyzed using estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). Inequality, decomposition, and frontier analyses were conducted to explore geographic disparities, drivers of burden changes, and potential for improvement.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Between 1990 and 2021, the global ASPR of depression among WCBA increased from 5545.28 to 6173.45 per 100,000 population (1.33 % increase), with the largest rise observed in high-SDI regions. High-income North America recorded the highest ASPR in 2021 (10,443.59 per 100,000), whereas East Asia had the lowest (3700.00 per 100,000). The ASDR demonstrated heterogeneous patterns, with overall declines but recent increases since 2019. Major risk factors in 2021 included behavioral risks, child sexual abuse, bullying victimization, and intimate partner violence, with substantial regional variation. Decomposition analysis indicated that population growth was the dominant driver of increased DALYs.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div>The global burden of depression among WCBA has risen over the past three decades, with pronounced disparities across regions and SDI levels. High-income countries continue to face growing challenges, while inequalities persist despite narrowing trends. These findings underscore the urgent need for region-specific, gender-sensitive strategies to improve prevention and mental health care for WCBA worldwide.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100688"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146038139","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-13DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100709
Azadeh Tahernejad , Sina Ghaffari , Somayeh Tahernejad , Faezeh Makki , Ulrich Wesemann , Ali Sahebi
Objectives
The profession of firefighting is one of the most dangerous and stressful occupations, and firefighters are at greater risk of suicide due to the experience of unfortunate incidents. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to investigate the overall prevalence of suicide ideation, plan, and attempt among firefighters.
Study design
The present study is a systematic review and Meta-Analysis.
Methods
The study followed PRISMA guidelines. The protocol of this study was registered in PROSPERO with the code CRD42023469261. Data sources including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were used to identify and extract related studies. Searches were conducted without a time limit until the end of July 2023. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I2 index was used to check heterogeneity between studies. Data were analyzed using STATA software (version 14).
Results
In this study, 2003 primary articles were identified from the information sources. After the screening, study selection, and quality assessment, 21 articles entered the meta-analysis stage, and 86,989 firefighters were examined. Based on the results of the meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of suicide plan, attempt, and ideation among firefighters was reported as 17.91 % (95 % CI = 7.72.-28.10, I2 = 99.5 %, p < 0.001), 24.01 % (95 % CI = 14.92–33.09, I2 = 99.9 %, p < 0.001), and 28.29 % (95 % CI = 24.35–32.22, I2 = 99.7 %, p < 0.001), respectively. The I2 index obtained in all three cases showed very high heterogeneity between the investigated studies.
Conclusion
The results of this study showed that firefighters are at relatively high risk of suicide plans, attempts, and ideation. Therefore, it is vital to take necessary measures to prevent suicide among them. It is suggested that firefighters be periodically screened for mental disorders and receive essential training in the field of stress management and increasing psychological resilience.
消防员是最危险、压力最大的职业之一，由于经历过不幸事件，消防员自杀的风险更大。本系统回顾与荟萃分析研究旨在调查消防员自杀意念、计划与企图的整体流行程度。研究设计本研究为系统综述和荟萃分析。方法本研究遵循PRISMA指南。本研究方案已在PROSPERO中注册，代码为CRD42023469261。使用PubMed、Scopus、Web of Science和b谷歌Scholar等数据源对相关研究进行识别和提取。搜索没有时间限制，直到2023年7月底。meta分析采用随机效应模型，I2指数检验研究间异质性。数据分析使用STATA软件（版本14）。结果本研究从信息源中筛选出2003篇主要文献。经过筛选、研究选择和质量评估，21篇文章进入meta分析阶段，共检查了86,989名消防员。根据meta分析的结果，消防员自杀计划、企图和意念的总体患病率分别为17.91% （95% CI = 7.72 -28.10, I2 = 99.5%, p < 0.001）、24.01% （95% CI = 14.92-33.09, I2 = 99.9%, p < 0.001）和28.29% （95% CI = 24.35-32.22, I2 = 99.7%, p < 0.001）。在所有三个病例中获得的I2指数在调查研究之间显示出非常高的异质性。结论本研究结果显示消防员有较高的自杀计划、企图及意念。因此，采取必要的措施防止他们自杀是至关重要的。建议消防员定期进行精神障碍筛查，并接受压力管理和增强心理弹性方面的必要培训。
{"title":"Prevalence of suicidal ideation, suicide plan, and suicide attempt among firefighters: A systematic review and meta-analysis","authors":"Azadeh Tahernejad , Sina Ghaffari , Somayeh Tahernejad , Faezeh Makki , Ulrich Wesemann , Ali Sahebi","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100709","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100709","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>The profession of firefighting is one of the most dangerous and stressful occupations, and firefighters are at greater risk of suicide due to the experience of unfortunate incidents. This systematic review and meta-analysis study aimed to investigate the overall prevalence of suicide ideation, plan, and attempt among firefighters.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>The present study is a systematic review and Meta-Analysis.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>The study followed PRISMA guidelines. The protocol of this study was registered in PROSPERO with the code CRD42023469261. Data sources including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were used to identify and extract related studies. Searches were conducted without a time limit until the end of July 2023. The random effects model was used for meta-analysis, and the I<sup>2</sup> index was used to check heterogeneity between studies. Data were analyzed using STATA software (version 14).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>In this study, 2003 primary articles were identified from the information sources. After the screening, study selection, and quality assessment, 21 articles entered the meta-analysis stage, and 86,989 firefighters were examined. Based on the results of the meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of suicide plan, attempt, and ideation among firefighters was reported as 17.91 % (95 % CI = 7.72.-28.10, I<sup>2</sup> = 99.5 %, p < 0.001), 24.01 % (95 % CI = 14.92–33.09, I<sup>2</sup> = 99.9 %, p < 0.001), and 28.29 % (95 % CI = 24.35–32.22, I<sup>2</sup> = 99.7 %, p < 0.001), respectively. The I<sup>2</sup> index obtained in all three cases showed very high heterogeneity between the investigated studies.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The results of this study showed that firefighters are at relatively high risk of suicide plans, attempts, and ideation. Therefore, it is vital to take necessary measures to prevent suicide among them. It is suggested that firefighters be periodically screened for mental disorders and receive essential training in the field of stress management and increasing psychological resilience.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100709"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145798989","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-12-13DOI: 10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100690
Jill West , Matthew Humphreys , Marianne Durand , Emma Green , Kevin D. Hochard , Alex Stewart
Objective
Individuals in areas of high deprivation face significant health inequalities with a higher prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Whilst some factors are non-modifiable, early identification of modifiable factors and appropriate intervention can improve health outcomes. We assessed modifiable risk factors, particularly in persons with no medical history.
Study design
A retrospective cross-sectional study using data of persons attending a mobile opportunistic screening clinic.
Method
Data was extracted from the records of 2973 attendees (≥18 years) in Cheshire & Merseyside, January–June 2023 using a standard approach. We classed CVD risk factors as either modifiable or non-modifiable. We grouped the data into those with no risk factors, one or two, and three or more, in relation to their self-reported medical history or clinical findings.
Results
Within the total study population of 2973, 79 % had at least one modifiable risk factor for CVD. Our logistic regression model highlighted that non-modifiable factors age and sex were significant predictors of CVD, while males had higher odds than females to report CVD. Of our modifiable factors, only hypertension and mental health diagnosis were significant predictors. BMI was excluded from the multivariable analysis due to missing data.
Conclusion
Mobile screening provides improved equitable access to services and engages with underserved communities to deliver targeted health care. It identifies CVD risk in an asymptomatic population, and patients with poorly controlled conditions. This model is highly acceptable to service users and is flexible and targeted in its activities and placement.
{"title":"‘Bringing services to communities: Identifying service users at risk of developing cardiovascular disease through mobile opportunistic screening in deprived or underserved communities’","authors":"Jill West , Matthew Humphreys , Marianne Durand , Emma Green , Kevin D. Hochard , Alex Stewart","doi":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100690","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.puhip.2025.100690","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Objective</h3><div>Individuals in areas of high deprivation face significant health inequalities with a higher prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Whilst some factors are non-modifiable, early identification of modifiable factors and appropriate intervention can improve health outcomes. We assessed modifiable risk factors, particularly in persons with no medical history.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>A retrospective cross-sectional study using data of persons attending a mobile opportunistic screening clinic.</div></div><div><h3>Method</h3><div>Data was extracted from the records of 2973 attendees (≥18 years) in Cheshire & Merseyside, January–June 2023 using a standard approach. We classed CVD risk factors as either modifiable or non-modifiable. We grouped the data into those with no risk factors, one or two, and three or more, in relation to their self-reported medical history or clinical findings.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Within the total study population of 2973, 79 % had at least one modifiable risk factor for CVD. Our logistic regression model highlighted that non-modifiable factors age and sex were significant predictors of CVD, while males had higher odds than females to report CVD. Of our modifiable factors, only hypertension and mental health diagnosis were significant predictors. BMI was excluded from the multivariable analysis due to missing data.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>Mobile screening provides improved equitable access to services and engages with underserved communities to deliver targeted health care. It identifies CVD risk in an asymptomatic population, and patients with poorly controlled conditions. This model is highly acceptable to service users and is flexible and targeted in its activities and placement.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34141,"journal":{"name":"Public Health in Practice","volume":"11 ","pages":"Article 100690"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-12-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145798968","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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