BMC Public Health最新文献

Background: The mental health of college students significantly impacts their life, academic performance, and even employment prospects. Research indicates that physical exercise can promote mental health, but the pathways of its influence require further exploration. This study investigates the relationship between physical exercise and psychological capital in college students, focusing on the mediating roles of perceived social support and self-control.

Objectives: This study seeks to investigate the relationship between physical exercise and psychological capital among university students, with a further in-depth analysis of the mediating roles played by perceived social support and self-control within this dynamic.

Methods: Using cluster sampling, we surveyed 898 college students from five universities in Xinxiang, Henan Province, employing the Physical Activity Rating Scale (PARS-3), the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS), the Revised Self-Control Scale (SCS), and the Psychological Capital Questionnaire (PCQ). Data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 and Amos 23.0, and common method bias was tested using Harman's single-factor test. The significance of the mediation effects was tested using the bootstrap sampling method.

Results: (1) Physical exercise is significantly correlated with psychological capital (r = 0.786, p < 0.01); (2) Perceived social support and self-control mediate the relationship between physical exercise and psychological capital; (3) The mediation effect consists of two indirect effects: physical exercise → perceived social support → psychological capital (β = 0.404, 95% CI: 0.336-0.473) and physical exercise → self-control → psychological capital (β = 0.158, 95% CI: 0.067-0.242).

Conclusion: Physical exercise can directly enhance the psychological capital of college students and can indirectly influence psychological capital through perceived social support or self-control. The mediating effect of perceived social support is stronger than that of self-control.

Background: Robust evidence indicates that having few or poor-quality social connections is associated with poorer physical health outcomes and risk for earlier death (Snyder-Mackler N, Science 368, 2020; Vila J, Front Psychol 12:717164, 2021).

Aim: This study sought to determine whether recent attention on social connection and loneliness brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic may influence risk perception and whether these perceptions were heightened among those who are lonely.

Methods: Two waves of online survey data were collected. The first included data from 1,486 English-speaking respondents in the US, UK, and Australia, and a second sample of 999 nationally representative US adults, with a final sample of 2392 respondents from the US and UK.

Results: Perceptions of risk have remained consistent, underestimating the influence of social factors on health outcomes and longevity, even among respondents who reported moderate-to-severe levels of loneliness.

Conclusions: Despite heightened awareness and discourse during the COVID-19 pandemic, public perception in the US and UK continues to significantly underestimate the impact of social factors on physical health and mortality. This underestimation persists regardless of individual loneliness levels, underscoring the need for enhanced public education and policy efforts to recognize social connection as a crucial determinant of health outcomes.

Aim: This study aims to examine the impact of a training course in improving mothers' awareness and opinion of antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) among their children.

Methodology: Nonequivalent control group design (quasi-experimental), was used to examine the effectiveness of a training course on mothers' awareness, and opinion of antibiotic use and AMR among their children. A total of 161 mothers participated in the study were divided into 82 training group, and 79 control group.

Results: The overall awareness scores indicate improvement post-training, with the mean scores increasing from pre-training 24.7(6.7) to post-training 30(6.4). The total awareness shift is statistically significant (t-test = -12.83, df = 160, p < 0.0011). The overall opinion increasing from pre-training 18.4(4.81) to post-training23.3(4.42). The total opinion shift is statistically significant (t-test = -8.99, df = 160, p < 0.0011).

Conclusion: Depending on the findings of this study, the antibiotic training course was found to be beneficial in improving mother's awareness and opinion of antibiotic use and AMR, as well as providing an effective training course for mothers. Replicating these training initiatives within the community can empower mothers to proactively prevent infections, address their child's health issues, and actively participate in treatment decisions, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to healthcare within the community it became imperative to improve the mothers' awareness and opinion of antibiotic use and AMR among their children.

Background: Dietary Diversity Score (DDS), as a proxy for nutritional adequacy, can be used as a useful tool to assess diet quality, especially in children, due to its low cost and ease of use in comprehensive studies. This study aimed to develop a questionnaire to estimate dietary diversity and also assess the validity of DDS as an indicator of nutritional status among children aged 24 to 59 months in Iran.

Methods: In addition to the Dietary Diversity Questionnaire (DDQ), which was designed based on the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) protocols, two non-consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls were completed for 471 children aged 24-59 months, recruited using random cluster sampling. Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (NAR) for energy, protein, and micronutrients, and the Mean Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (MAR) were calculated. Serum retinol concentration was assayed using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Children's weights and heights were measured and Height for Age (HAZ), Weight for Age (WAZ), Weight for Height (WHZ), and BMI for Age (BAZ) Z-scores were calculated according to World Health Organization (WHO) criteria in 2006. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to analyze the correlation between DDS and NARs, MAR, anthropometric indicators, and serum retinol.

Results: The mean age of the children was 42.5 ± 0.47 months. The average DDS was 5.19 ± 0.06. DDS showed a positive association with the NAR of energy, protein, and all micronutrients (p < 0.05) except for vitamin K. There was a positive and significant correlation between DDS and MAR (r = 0.271; p < 0.001). In addition, DDS showed a direct, weaker but statistically significant, correlation with serum retinol concentration (r = 0.104; p = 0.026). No significant relationship was found between DDS and children's growth indicators.

Conclusions: The designed DDQ can be a valuable tool for examining the adequacy of nutritional intake in Iranian children.

Background: Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is up to three times more common in people of Black African and Black Caribbean heritage living in the UK, compared to their White British counterparts. Structured education is the cornerstone of care but is less successful for people from minority ethnic groups. Healthy Eating and Active Lifestyles for Diabetes (HEAL-D) was developed to support diabetes self-management in people of Black African and Caribbean heritage living with T2D in the UK. The intervention was designed using COM-B/behaviour change wheel methodology to specify the theory of change. In a process evaluation study, we explored how the selected behaviour change techniques (BCTs) supported behaviour change in the intervention.

Methods: Focus groups and interviews were conducted with participants who were randomised to receive the HEAL-D intervention in a feasibility trial. A topic guide directed discussions to explore experiences of HEAL-D, key learnings and impact, and behaviour change; the interviews gave the opportunity to probe further the focus group themes and areas requiring clarification. Sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed. Framework analysis was used to explore how the selected BCTs supported behaviour change in those attending HEAL-D.

Results: Thirty-six participants took part in one or both activities (44% Black African, 50% Black Caribbean, 6% Mixed race; 61% female, 83% first-generation; mean age 59.5 years, SD 10.02). Participants reported increased physical activity, reduced carbohydrate portion size and engagement in weight monitoring behaviour. BCTs to increase social opportunity (social comparison, social support) and overcome motivational barriers (credible sources and modelling) were effective in addressing cultural barriers relating to diet, stigma and health beliefs. BCTs to develop capability (demonstration, instruction, information on health consequences) were effective because of the cultural salience of the developed components. Less impactful BCTs were problem solving, graded tasks, goal setting, and feedback on outcomes.

Conclusions: BCTs in the HEAL-D intervention were effective in supporting behaviour change, particularly those promoting social opportunity, as normative cultural habits and beliefs can conflict with diabetes self-management guidance. In addition, lifestyle interventions should include opportunity for experiential learning alongside culturally salient information provision.

Trial registration: number: NCT03531177, May 18th 2018.

Background: Little is known about the associations of changes in drinking levels with the newly defined metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We therefore sought to estimate the associations between changes in drinking levels and MASLD in less developed regions of China.

Methods: This longitudinal study included 8727 participants from the China Multi-Ethnic Cohort (CMEC) in less developed regions, all participating in baseline and a follow-up survey. MASLD was defined as hepatic steatosis, along with the presence of at least one of five cardiometabolic risks, in addition to limiting excessive alcohol consumption. We applied the parametric g-formula to evaluate the association between changes in drinking levels and MASLD. We further estimated the association between changes in drinking levels and fibrosis scores (AST-to-platelet ratio and fibrosis-4 index) in patients with MASLD.

Results: Compared with sustained non-drinking, sustained modest drinking was associated with a higher risk of MASLD (Mean Ratio (MR): 1.127 [95% CI: 1.040-1.242]). Compared to sustained non-drinking, the MR for those transitioning from non-drinking to modest drinking was 1.065 [95% CI: 0.983-1.169], while the MR for those changing from modest drinking to non-drinking was 1.059 [95% CI: 0.965, 1.173]. Non-invasive fibrosis scores tended to increase with modest drinking compared to sustained non-drinking.

Conclusion: In the less developed regions of China, sustained moderate drinking was associated with the risk of MASLD compared with sustained non-drinking. Increased drinking showed a trend towards a higher risk of MASLD. This study can inform drinking policies related to MASLD and liver fibrosis in less developed regions.

Background: Palestinian health conditions are exacerbated by high housing density, overcrowding, moisture issues, poor air circulation, poverty, limited health services, and housing insecurity, leading to chronic illnesses and mental health challenges. This study aims to explore the intricate connection between housing conditions and health outcomes, particularly focusing on the psychological, mental, and physical well-being of Palestinians.

Methods: The study employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. A structured questionnaire, developed based on expert discussions and previous research, assesses health indicators across the three domains. Descriptive statistics and Stepwise Multiple Regression techniques are used for data analysis. Additionally, ten structured interviews are conducted to provide qualitative insights into the detrimental impacts of housing conditions on health.

Results: The quantitative analysis reveals significant associations between housing characteristics and health outcomes. Participants residing in smaller households, with higher family incomes, and in private homes report better health across all domains. Urban residents generally exhibit better health outcomes compared to rural or refugee camp dwellers, highlighting disparities in resource accessibility. Moreover, stability in residential environments positively correlates with overall well-being. Qualitative findings underscore the negative impact of cramped living conditions, poor building supplies, and military occupation/ conflict on mental and physical health.

Conclusion: The study emphasizes the interconnectedness of socio-demographic factors with health outcomes among Palestinians. It highlights the crucial role of family dynamics, socioeconomic status, housing type, residential environment, and the political situation-particularly its impact on housing security and stress levels-in determining physical, mental, and psychological well-being. Addressing structural inequalities and promoting equitable access to resources and opportunities are essential steps towards improving health outcomes in Palestinian society. The study's findings can inform policy development for Palestinians, addressing structural inequalities and improving healthcare, housing affordability, and socioeconomic opportunities, with future research utilizing longitudinal designs and cross-cultural comparisons.

Background: Health literacy (HL) in Thailand remains a significant issue, with a large portion of the population demonstrating limited HL, and limited research exists on specific determinants among Thai university students. Some culture shapes health decision-making and HL disparities within this group, highlighting the need to evaluate HL comprehensively. This study aims to assess and compare HL levels among health science and non-health science students, and identify key predictors associated with HL.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1,647 Thai university students, comprising 676 health science and 971 non-health science students, recruited through multi-stage stratified random sampling. Data were collected using validated questionnaires that measured sociodemographic characteristics, academic background, lifestyle behaviors, and HL levels across three sub-domains, including healthcare, disease prevention, and health promotion. Statistical analyses included univariable and multivariable regression models, with significance set at p-value < 0.05.

Results: Health sciences students demonstrated significantly higher HL scores across all sub-domains compared to non-health sciences students. Limited HL was found in 12.6% for health science students, and 28.4% for non-health science students. Key predictors of overall HL included gender, income, faculty of study, and lifestyle-related health behaviors. Female students showed higher total HL (β = 1.41; 95% CI: 0.62, 2.21), as did those with higher income (β = 1.28; 95% CI: 0.76, 1.80). Students enrolled in health sciences programs had higher HL scores (β = 2.86; 95% CI: 2.07, 3.64). Lifestyle behaviors also correlated with HL, with non-smoking (β = -0.58; 95% CI: -1.03, -0.13), no alcohol consumption (β = -0.45, 95%CI: -0.89, -0.01), and regular physical activity (β = 0.35; 95% CI: 0.04, 0.66). Consumption of sweet foods/drinks was inversely related to HL scores (β = -0.87; 95% CI: -1.49, -0.26).

Conclusions: HL among Thai university students varies significantly by sociodemographic factors, academic background, and lifestyle behaviors. Health sciences students exhibited stronger HL skills, underscoring the importance of integrating health education into non-health sciences curricula. Targeted HL interventions are recommended for non-health sciences students, males, and individuals from lower-income backgrounds to enhance health decision-making and reduce HL disparities. These findings have implications for policy and practice, emphasizing the integration of HL modules into university curricula, health promotion campaigns, and the provision of accessible health services to foster an inclusive and health-literate student population.

Background: Inappropriate supplementary feeding techniques put children under the age of two in danger of malnutrition, illness, and death. However, only a few children receive nutritionally appropriate and diversified diets. It is noteworthy that achieving minimum dietary diversity plays a pivotal role in the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals. However, the double burden of malnutrition poses a significant threat to achieving these goals.

Methods: A health facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to July 2021. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to sample 422 study participants. Data were collected with a paper-based questionnaire, coded and entered into Epi-Data version 3.1. Data extraction was carried out in Excel Sheet for cleaning and then later exported into STATA for analysis. The dependent variable explored in the study was MDD. The independent variables considered in our estimation include; mothers' age (years), educational level, marital status, ethnicity, occupational status, religion, place of residence, sex of the child, age of the child (in months), and complementary feeding practices.

Results: Out of the 422 participants, the majority of them 343 (81.0%) had good dietary practices. The prevalence of MDD among the children was 17.1%. On the other hand, educational level [aOR = 3.16 (95% CI: 0.75-13.29), p = 0.001] and ethnicity [aOR = 24.72 (1.43-15.64), p = 0.011] were statistically associated with children's high MDD.

Conclusion: The study concludes that while MDD was low among the children studied, breastfeeding was common but gaps existed in providing essential food groups, with significant influences from maternal education and ethnicity. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to enhance dietary practices for children aged 6-23 months. Specifically, the study emphasized scaling up comprehensive public awareness campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of dietary diversity for child health and development.

Background and aim: Caregiver burden encompasses the physical, emotional, financial, and social challenges faced by individuals caring for a sick or disabled person. Spiritual well-being and social support have been identified as protective factors against psychological and physical issues, potentially alleviating caregiver burden. This study aims to explore the relationship between spiritual well-being, perceived social support, and caregiver burden among parents of children with disabilities.

Method: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted with 260 family caregivers, selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a demographic questionnaire, the Novak and Gaug Caregiving Burden Scale, the Paloutzian-Ellison Spiritual Well-being Scale, and the Zimet Social Support Questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 22, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: Among the caregivers, 148 (61.4%) reported a high level of caregiving burden, while 81% indicated moderate spiritual well-being and 14.5% reported high spiritual well-being. A significant negative correlation was found between spiritual well-being, social support, and caregiving burden (p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that spiritual well-being (β = -0.41) and social support (β = -0.33) were the most significant predictors of caregiving burden. Additional significant predictors included social activities, underlying health conditions, age, caregiving duration, insurance coverage, and marital status (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The high caregiving burden observed in this population, along with the inverse relationship between social support, spiritual well-being, and caregiving burden, underscores the need for strategies to enhance social support and spiritual well-being. These factors may serve as cost-effective, accessible interventions to alleviate caregiving burden.