Journal of preventive medicine and hygiene最新文献

Background: Cervical cancer is the second most common gynecological cancer in Tunisia. The HPV vaccine is a crucial tool for preventing and controlling this disease. Training healthcare providers and equipping them with adequate knowledge is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an educational intervention video (EIV) on the knowledge and perceptions of HPV, cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccine among Tunisian female students.

Methods: A quasi-experimental study involving a single interventional group was conducted among 158 female students. Participants were interviewed before and after watching the EIV. The chi-square test using McNemar's method assessed variations between pre- and post-intervention responses. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The average age of participants was 19.74±1.7 years. The EIV had a positive impact on the scores for knowledge and perceptions related to HPV and cervical cancer. A significant difference was observed between the intention to receive the HPV vaccine and perceived severity of HPV, perceived benefits of vaccination, and perceived barriers. Notably, 50.6% of female students believed the HPV vaccine should be available upon request and covered by health insurance, while 46.2% thought it should be included in the Tunisian vaccination schedule.

Conclusion: The EIV improved students' knowledge and perceptions about HPV, cervical cancer, and the HPV vaccine. Tailored educational strategies may enhance vaccine acceptance, especially when integrated early in academic training.

Introduction: Exposure to third-hand smoke (THS) is hazardous for human health, especially for pregnant women. This study aimed at psychometric evaluation of the Iranian version of "Beliefs about Third-Hand Smoke Scale" (BATHS-T) in pregnant women.

Aims & methods: The data collected from 364 pregnant women referring to Yazd health centers. The BATHS scale was translated into Persian, and the stages of adaptation of the BATHS scale in Persian were evaluated with CVR=0.87 and CVI=0.88. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to analyze the construct validity of the scale. Besides, the correlation test was used to evaluate the correlation of categories and subcategories of the scale.

Results: The BATHS structural equation model showed a favorable fit as RMSEA value was less than 0.05 and X²/df varied between 2 to 5. Moreover, other indices such as CFI and NFI were more than 90%, indicating the optimal fit of the present model. The correlation between the overall scale of BATHS and its two subcategories was 0.843 (p < 0.001) and the correlation between health and stability subcategories was 0.886 (p < 0.001). Since there was a positive and highly significant correlation, the fitted BATHS scale was considered to be structurally consistent with its subcategories. The reliability of the whole scale was 0.86 using Cronbach's alpha coefficient.

Conclusion: The Iranian version of the BATHS scale is reliable and valid. This scale provides the required prerequisites for further research and education on third hand smoke exposure. It can also be possibly used in similar studies.

Implications: The BATHS scale has innovative aspects based on the real beliefs of participants concerning third-hand smoke. The favorable validity and reliability of the scale makes it possible to use it in similar studies. Hence, a reliable scale of THS beliefs may be a criterion for measuring the desire to reduce exposure to SHS and THS at homes or other private spaces such as cars. Additionally, examining the results among different populations may be useful in identifying high-risk groups to ward off exposure to THS, and groups that are likely to respond positively to interventions that emphasize THS damage.

Background and study design: Clinically vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, are at increased risk of adverse health outcomes following infections, due to immunosenescence, chronic inflammation, or underlying medical conditions. Despite measures such as the National Immunisation Prevention Plan and Regional Laws, immunisation coverage for herpes zoster, pneumococcus, and COVID-19 in the Apulia Region has declined in recent years. This study outlines strategic actions to improve vaccination coverage for clinically vulnerable individualss in the region, using methods like the World Café (WoCa) to achieve regional consensus.

Methods: On 31st May 2023, a working group of Apulian researchers and healthcare workers, supported by the Regional Immunisation Committee, conducted a workshop. The WoCa method facilitated structured discussions across five thematic domains to generate innovative solutions for enhancing immunisation rates.

Results: Key actions included active vaccination reminders in all formats of informed consent and during healthcare visits; improved training for healthcare workers conducting outreach; involving pharmacies in patient guidance alongside general practicioners (GPs) and public health operators; establishing vaccination clinics near specialist centres and employing mobile units; launching media campaigns to counteract misinformation using authoritative voices; providing vaccinology and scientific communication training for professionals; implementing a hub-and-spoke logistics system under the governance by the Department of Prevention (DP); and ensuring seamless communication between digital platforms for vaccine data reporting and monitoring.

Conclusion: The findings demonstrate the value of WoCa in achieving regional consensus to enhance immunisation for frail individuals. Collaboration among healthcare professionals, institutions, and the public is vital to raise awareness, improve accessibility, and address logistical challenges, ensuring equitable access to vaccination for vulnerable populations.

At the end of 1980, Michael Gottlieb, a researcher at the University of California, was conducting a clinical study on deficiencies of the immune system when he heard of the case of a young man with a rare form of pneumonia due to Pneumocystis carinii (now known as Pneumocystis jirovecii), a protozoon that usually affects only people with a weakened immune system [1]. In the following months, Gottlieb discovered further cases of patients with Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia, oral candidiasis and a very low level of T lymphocytes. All were male and active homosexuals [2]. In reality the infection had already manifested itself in previous years but had always been mistaken for something else [3]. HIV probably originated from a virus found in chimpanzees and began infecting humans in the first half of the 20th century. It probably emerged when members of the Bantu tribe, who lived in the forests of central Africa, consumed chimpanzee meat infected with a virus called simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV). This may have caused a so-called spillover from chimpanzees to humans [4, 5].

Background: Surgical Site Infections (SSIs) are among one of the most frequent and costly healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), leading to increased patient morbidity, prolonged hospital stays, and higher healthcare costs. Surveillance programs are essential for detecting, monitoring, and preve nting SSIs. However, the implementation and effectiveness of these programs varies across healthcare facilities. This study aims to provide effective data gathered from SSI trend assessment at Ferrara Teaching Hospital to improve surveillance systems.

Materials and methods: A retrospective study was conducted on data collected between 2020 to 2023 from the SIChER surveillance system and Hospital Discharge Cards at Ferrara Teaching Hospital. The analysis examined infection rates across various surgical procedures, applying two primary indicators: SSI Percentage by Category and Incidence Density of Hospital-Onset SSIs. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA software.

Results: An average of 5,158 surgical procedures were executed annually between 2020 to 2023, and SIChER-monitored procedures steadily increased during this period, reaching 80.7% coverage in 2023. The highest infection rates were recorded in colon surgery, while cardiac surgery consistently recorded no infections. The overall incidence density of hospital-onset SSIs was 0.18 per 1,000 follow-up days, with significant variations across surgical categories. The accuracy of HDCs in documenting SSIs improved over time, achieving a 97.2% match in 2023.

Conclusion: The study highlights an increasing trend in SSI surveillance coverage and accuracy, demonstrating the effectiveness of the SIChER system in monitoring infections. However, variations in infection rates among different procedures suggest the need for targeted strategies, particularly for high-risk surgeries such as colorectal and orthopaedic procedures.

Background: Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare globally, enhancing diagnostics, treatment, and efficiency. However, low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) like Iran face significant barriers to AI integration. Iran's health system, challenged by an aging population, increasing non-communicable diseases, and limited resources, could benefit from AI-driven, patient-centered care. Yet, its adoption remains limited. Understanding the barriers to AI implementation is critical for informed policymaking.

Methods: This qualitative study involved semi-structured interviews with 15 stakeholders from healthcare management, policymaking, and AI sectors in Iran, conducted between January and April 2025. Participants were selected purposively to represent government, academia, healthcare, and technology. Data were analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke's framework. Rigor was ensured through member checking, triangulation, and adherence to qualitative research standards.

Results: Five major barriers to AI adoption emerged: (1) organizational and structural limitations, including poor infrastructure and fragmented governance; (2) legal and policy challenges, marked by regulatory gaps and ethical concerns; (3) data-related issues such as low data quality, lack of standardization, and security risks; (4) shortage of skilled professionals and limited training opportunities; and (5) challenges in integrating AI into policymaking, including concerns about losing human oversight in decision-making.

Conclusion: AI implementation in Iran's health system faces complex and interrelated challenges. Addressing these requires a coordinated strategy focused on legal reform, infrastructure investment, capacity building, and cultural adaptation. Balancing technological innovation with ethical and human-centered care is essential for successful and sustainable integration.

Infectious diseases continue to pose a significant challenge to global health, particularly within resource-limited communities, where socioeconomic and environmental health determinants amplify their prevalence and impact. This letter to editor examines comprehensive strategies aimed at alleviating the burden of communicable diseases by addressing essential factors such as water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), housing conditions, climate change, gender equity, sociocultural influences, and poverty. Common infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, malaria, HIV/AIDS, cholera, and dengue fever are significantly influenced by poor sanitation, inadequate housing, climate change, and gender disparities. Key interventions, including enhancing access to clean water, promoting sufficient sanitation, improving housing quality, and fostering climate resilience, are identified as vital measures to prevent disease transmission. Moreover, empowering women through equitable healthcare and education, implementing culturally responsive health campaigns, and engaging community members in preventive actions are distinctly highlighted. Strategies for poverty alleviation, encompassing economic development and social protection initiatives, play a crucial role in breaking the cycle of disease and poverty. This letter highlights the need for a multidisciplinary strategy and cross-sector collaboration to tackle the complex relations of these health determinants, promoting health equity and improving the well-being of vulnerable populations.

Objectives: To identify the prevalence of Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection and association with age and gender among children aged from 2 to 59 months, hospitalized with atypical pneumonia in Vietnam from June 2023 to May 2024.

Methods: A retrospective descriptive study was performed using data collected from the electronic medical records. M. pneumoniae infection was determined by the IgM serology test.

Results: 1,296 patients aged from 2 to 59 months hospitalized with atypical pneumonia were included. The majority of patients were aged 12 months or older, with only 3.6% of cases being under 12 months of age. Male patients accounted for 58.7% of the cases. Prevalence of M. pneumoniae infection was 47.3%. Compared to children under 12 months of age, those aged 12 to under 36 months had a 10 times higher risk of M. pneumoniae infection, with OR = 9.44, 95% CI = [2.90-30.77]. Compared to children under 12 months of age, those aged 36 months to under 5 years had a 20 times higher risk of M. pneumoniae infection, with OR = 20.19, 95% CI = [6.20-65.69]. Compared to female children, male children had nearly twice the lower risk of M. pneumoniae infection, with OR = 0.62, 95% CI = [0.50-0.78].

Conclusion: Our study provides additional evidence on the role of M. pneumoniae in atypical pneumonia in children aged from 2 to 59 months, while also highlighting significant risk factors for M. pneumoniae infection.

Background: Lack of knowledge, attitude and perception towards breast cancer still a major public health issue disease in many developed and under-developed countries including Pakistan. In 2024 in Pakistan, one in every 8 females is affected by Breast Cancer.

Objective: To determine the awareness, attitude, and practices of Pharmacy (Pharm-D) students towards Breast Cancer (BC) and their correlation with participants' age and level of study.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 401 female students of Pharmacy from December 2023 to March 2024, using a self-administered questionnaire assessing awareness, attitude, and practices towards BC. For sample size calculation, Raosoft^® online sample size calculator with a 5.0% margin of error and a 95.0% confidence interval was used. The respondents were sampled via convenience sampling.

Results: Our sample included 401 participants. The majority gained knowledge about BC from the media (69.8%). About 73.4% of participants did not participate in breast self-examination (BSE), and about 41.3% of them believed they were not at risk. About 92.6% of participants didn't undergo clinical breast examination (CBE). Nearly half of the participants (44.9%) agreed that BC is more common in older women. About four-fifths of the respondents (79.3%) agreed that regular examination can reduce the risk of BC.

Conclusion: The practice of BSE by the Pharm.D students is lagging. There were notable gaps in CBE by pharmacy students due to the belief that breast cancer predominantly affects older women. Therefore, it is important to make future pharmacists aware of practicing BSE and CBE regularly.