bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of trends in the incidence of acute hepatitis B virus infection in the Republic of Serbia in the period from 2003 to 2022
Authors: Rakić Violeta , Simić Jelena
Published: October 2024

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a common worldwide blood-borne pathogen. WHO estimates that 254 million people were living with chronic hepatitis B infection in 2022, with 1.2 million new infections each year. In 2022, hepatitis B resulted in an estimated 1.1 million deaths, mostly from cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (primary liver cancer). Hepatitis B can be prevented by vaccines that are safe, available and effective. Chronic hepatitis B can progress to an inactive carrier state, and then, in some patients, give rise to cirrhosis and cancer of the liver, leading to death. An HBV surface-antigen vaccine is effective, but treatments are currently not curative. Methods and objectives: Descriptive analysis of HBV cases notified from 2003-2022 in the national hepatitis register of the Institute of Public Health of Serbia. Overall incidence rates for acute HBV infection were calculated. The number of reported patients with acute HBV infection in the observed years will be used as a numerator when calculating the incidence rates of acute HBV infection (all persons diagnosed according to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision with codes B16.1 and B16.9). As the denominator of the incidence rate, the estimated number of inhabitants in the middle of each year is used, according to the data of the Republic Institute of Statistics. General, age-specific and standardized incidence rates will be calculated, and the world population according to WHO will be used as the standard population. Based on the joinpoint regression analysis, the average annual percentage changes in the incidence trend will be estimated and the periods when significant changes occurred will be identified. Results: The total number of registered cases of acute HBV infection was 4020. The ratio of men to women was 1.7:1. Statistically significant difference in sex (p<0.001) is notified among the respective age groups: 20-29, 30-39, 40-49. Crude incidence rates for acute hepatitis B virus infection ranged from 4.92 to 0.25 per 100.000 population, while standardized ranged from 4.81 to 0.21. From 2003 to 2017, the annual incidence rate decreased by 6.2 (C I9.79 -1.79) based on joinpoint regression analysis. Conclusions: In the period from 2003 to 2017, a significant decrease in the frequency of acute HBV infections was recorded.
The impact of vaccination with the MMR vaccine on the state of the general population in the territory of the Mačva District in the period 2014-2023
Authors: Radojičić Dragana , Pajičić Ana , Đukić Ivan , Vujković Branko
Published: October 2024

Introduction: The causative agent of measles is a globular, single-stranded RNA virus, which belongs to the genus Morbillivirus of the Paramyxoviridae family. This virus, 150nm-300nm in diameter, contains single-stranded RNA in its core. There is only one antigenic type of measles virus. Measles is a highly contagious disease. The contagiousness index of this disease is close to 100%. The virus was isolated in 1954, and worldwide vaccination began in 1963. Vaccination against measles has been carried out in our country since 1971. Since the introduction of the measles vaccine, significant progress has been made in reducing the global incidence and mortality of the disease. Epidemics occurred every 3-5 years, with many times smaller number of patients. The number of patients in Serbia decreased from 37,441 cases of patients in 1980 to 4,692 cases and 7 deaths during the last major epidemic in 1997. In October 2017, a large measles epidemic began in Serbia, with 693 cases, and continued in 2018 with a total of 5,783 cases and 15 deaths. Serbia is a country where smallpox continues to be endemic. Methods and Objectives: Reports of infectious diseases, annual reports of the epidemiological service, results of epidemiological and serological tests were used. A descriptive and analytical method was applied. The aim of the paper is to show the relationship between measles vaccination coverage and the occurrence of measles cases in the population on the territory of the Mačva district. Results: In the period from 2014-2023. 85 cases of measles in the population were registered in the territory of the Mačva district. In the same period, MMR vaccine coverage varied from 78.83% to 97.54%. Conclusion: The only effective measure of prevention against measles is immunization. This immunization involves the application of two doses of the vaccine, with coverage of at least 95%. In order to carry out effective epidemiological surveillance, it is necessary to recognize and report all suspected cases at the level of primary health care, in order to break the chain of transmission of the virus and to implement anti-epidemic measures in time.
Diabetes in Serbia: Epidemiological profile and implications
Authors: Rakočević Ivana , Mickovski-Katalina Nataša , Plavšić Snežana , Živković-Perišić Snežana , Miljuš Dragan , Božić Zorica
Published: October 2024

Background: In the last few decades, world is facing dramatic increase in diabetes prevalence imposing heavy burden of this chronic disease. The greatest escalation is occurring in low and middle-income economies. Methods and Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyse incidence, prevalence and mortality of diabetes in Serbia between year 2000. and 2022. Data were obtained from Serbian Diabetes Registry and Serbian National Health Survey. Standardized incidence and mortality rates were calculated by direct method using the World population as standard. To examine trend analysis, a linear regression model was performed. Results: During the 20-yr study period, the prevalence of known diabetes increased by 66%, from 5.0% in year 2000 to 8.3% in 2019. The majority of patients (90-95%) were people with type 2 diabetes, between the ages of 45 and 65. Besides, the significant increasing trend of type 1 diabetes was observed. Unlike type 2 diabetes, type 1 was the most frequent in childhood, at the age of 10-14. In addition, a North-south gradient was recorded, with incidence rates being higher in Vojvodina (16.9/100,000) than rates in central Serbia (15.8/100,000). While incidence and prevalence showed increase, diabetes mortality in Serbia had a slightly downward trend with standardized mortality rate of 15.0/100,000 in year 2022. Conclusions: This study indicates the high prevalence of diabetes in Serbian population. Moreover, our prevalence data were based on known cases of diabetes only, thus underestimating the prevalence of predominant type 2 diabetes. However, type 2 diabetes is largely preventable implicating that lifestyle changes, screening for high risk individuals and early detection of type 2 diabetes together with diabetes data surveillance are necessary to reduce high burden of diabetes in Serbia.
Research on the prevalence of smoking among staff of Leskovac general hospital
Authors: Ilić Vanja
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Smoking remains a significant threat to public health globally, acknowledged as an epidemic by health experts. In Serbia, tobacco use has long been a major health risk factor. The 2019 study showed 31.9% of individuals aged 15 and above regularly or occasionally smoked tobacco, including heated products, with higher rates in men (33.9%) than women (30.1%). Daily smoking prevalence was 27.1%, slightly down from 2013, and electronic cigarette usage was 3.3%. The highest tobacco use was among 45-54-year-old, at 41.3%. This study aims to assess smoking habits among intensive care unit staff at Leskovac General Hospital, their sensitivity to tobacco smoke, and the need for more aggressive public health initiatives. Objectives and Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed intensive care unit employees in October 2023, using the Institute of Public Health of Serbia's questionnaire and analyzing data descriptively. Results: Of 100 respondents, 56% had secondary education, 36% had a university degree, and 8% had higher education. Smoking prevalence varied by role: 12% among doctors, 23% among technicians, and 3% among non-healthcare staff. Daily cigarette consumption averaged 39.5 for women and 44.5 for men. Regarding smoking in healthcare facilities, 18% of doctors advocated for a complete ban, while 26% of technicians suggested designated smoking areas. Non-smokers were highest in the Coronary Unit (11%), while smokers were evenly distributed in orthopedics, gynecology, and surgery (7-10%). Conclusions: Addressing smoking prevalence is critical for improving public health.
Are we ready to vaccinate young people up to the age of 26 with the HPV vaccine?
Authors: Žikić Zorica , Tomašević Milena , Pešić Marijana
Published: October 2024

Background: According to the Expert Methodological Guide for the Implementation of Mandatory and Recommended Immunization of the Population for 2024, active immunization against diseases caused by human papillomaviruses (HPV) is recommended for children aged 9 to 19, and persons aged 19 to 26 can be immunized. Objectives and Methods: Increase the number of vaccinated young people against HPV, through examples of good practice in the student community. Results: Through preventive activities organized for the Students' Day on April 4, and initiative to enable free immunization against HPV during April 2024, vaccination was performed in all Institutes for the student healthcare in Serbia. Information was shared through social media. The greatest interest came from Belgrade students, a total of 3014 doses were given. Significantly more vaccines were given in the group aged 23-26 (73%) than in the group aged 19-22. In relation to gender, statistically significantly more female received the vaccine (78%) than male (22%). Conclusions: The huge interest of young people shows that there is an awareness of the importance of HPV vaccination. Young people are more familiar with sexually transmitted infections, accept responsibility for their decisions, and understand the importance of prevention. Free vaccination against HPV infection should be provided to all young people up to the age of 26.
Student's behavior during the exam period
Authors: Shabani Zamira , Pjetri Emiljano , Lekaj Xhulian
Published: October 2024

Background: Different factors during the exam period can negatively affect the students' performance. This study aims to explore the attitudes of students at the University of Shkodra during the exam period. Objectives and Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed; using a self-administered nineteen-item online questionnaire for the students. This study was conduct during January-February 2024. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Office Excel 2010. Results: The sample consists of 300 students (80 males and 220 females) who were asked about their concerns during the exam period. Conclusions: Students were more stressed due to worries about low performance in specific subjects, career selection, memorization of facts, time management, exam pattern and ways to attempt it, stress and anxiety, selecting appropriate resources for exams, adopting proper study styles, concentration issues, better academic performance, use of technological gadgets, health-related issues, and others.
Developing palliative care at national level: An example from Finland
Authors: Hökkä Minna
Published: October 2024

Background: The need for palliative care (PC) is increasing due to the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and the ageing population. There is a clear need to ensure the provision of PC. To provide PC successfully, the necessary services should be integrated into the health care system. In addition, all healthcare professionals need to have sufficient competence to carry out their work successfully. To provide appropriate palliative care, we need care at different levels, integrated into primary health care, and specialist care for those patients and families with complex needs. Methods and Objectives: In Finland, palliative care has been developed over the last eight years with national approaches. An expert group appointed by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health has surveyed the current situation and developed a service model. At the same time, the EduPal project, funded by the Ministry of Culture and Education, carried out research to define the necessary competencies and training for nurses and doctors. Based on the research and previous national recommendations, national curriculum recommendations were developed for the pre-registration education of nurses and doctors as well as for specialist education. Currently, the integration of palliative care services into health and social care services is being developed nationally in the FinPall project, funded by the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health. Results: The systematic development that has taken place in Finland has changed the training of nurses and doctors. It has also influenced access to palliative care services for patients and families. The development has been guided by research carried out during the various multidisciplinary development processes. Conclusions: Development guided by research can change the existing health-care systems and the education of professionals.
Readiness of the health care system in the permacrisis: Challenges and directions of action
Authors: Pilav Aida , Bursać-Aranđelović Snežana
Published: October 2024

The global world is in a period of "permacrisis", which is defined as a prolonged period of uncertainty and instability. Circumstances in the world in all spheres of social action are changing very quickly, and therefore the models of action must also change quickly. This is also the case with health care systems in countries. New challenges for public health and health systems is a strong health transition conditioned by demographic and epidemiological transition, then accelerated environmental changes and technological changes. We live in a time when the frequency of crises is increasing - including public health crises - climate change, the emergence of new infectious diseases - pandemics, accelerated population migration, the rise of consumerism and the significant influence of commercial determinants of health, which significantly increases the risk factors in the early onset and development of chronic diseases - diseases of the heart and blood vessels, chronic pulmonary obstructions, malignant diseases, mental health disorders, etc. In order for the health care system to provide timely and quality health care to each individual, and finally to the entire population, which is not necessarily only acute health care, but lifelong health care, from health promotion, through prevention, diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation, it is necessary to know all the circumstances in which people live and work, the most important of which are four groups of factors: socioeconomic, environmental, genetic and cultural. Modern healthcare systems require significant change management at all levels within the system, characterized by the proactive role of healthcare services, mastery of healthcare planning techniques, healthcare needs assessment and, finally, digital health. Change management becomes a "conditio sine qua non" at all levels of health care in all countries, at all levels of health care in order to increase technical and allocative efficiency and outcomes for the health of the population. Therefore, it is necessary to develop more significant regional cooperation for the modification and refinement of educational models for health professionals, which would be in "real time" and through which everyone would quickly adapt to global changes.
Analysis of performed cataract surgeries in the public and private sectors in Serbia from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Bukumirić Dragica , Ninić Danijela , Dukuć Danijela
Published: October 2024

Background: The clouding of the natural lens, usually due to aging, is a progressive condition that leads to loss of vision. Cataract surgery is the only effective treatment for removing the cloudy lens and restoring vision. To decrease the number of patients on waiting lists, the Republic Fund of Health Insurance has contracted cataract surgery services with private healthcare institutions. Method and Objective: The aim is to assess the trend in the number of patients on waiting lists and the number of operations performed after private health facilities were included in the provision of publicly funded cataract surgery services from 2019 to 2023. Data were obtained from the invoised realization of health services and waiting list information. Results: Between 2019 and 2023, the number cataract surgeries increased, with a significantly higher number of surgeries performed in public institutions in 2019 (70.3% vs. 29.7%). This ratio decreased in 2023 (53.3% vs. 46.7%), indicating a statistically significant trend of increasing surgeries in private institutions (chi-square test for trend; p<0.001). There was a statistically significant trend of increased involvement of private institutions (b=2.4; p=0.006). The prevalence of people with cataracts per 100,000 inhabitants over 20 years old is rising, as is the total number of surgeries performed and the number of patients on the waiting list for cataract surgery. However, there is no statistically significant trend in the increase of surgeries performed (b=1426.1; p=0.6672) and the waiting list (b=1204.8; p=0.329). Conclusion: Including the private sector and ensuring broader accessibility and an increase in the number of surgeries performed in both private and public sectors did not result in the expected reduction in the number of patients on waiting lists. Considering the trend of increasing prevalence, it is necessary to work on increasing the number of qualified eye doctors for cataract surgery with intraocular lens implantation.
The improvement of public health in the post-COVID era: The importance of the preventive center of primary health care
Authors: Ristovski-Kornić Danijela , Sokić Zorica
Published: October 2024

Background: Promotion of health and healthy lifestyles is a complex process leading the individual and the community to have better control over the determinants of health and improve the relationship between people and their environment. A large number of patients gravitate to primary health care centers every day. It is the first experience that can be decisive in the user's relationship with healthcare professionals and in relationship with his own health. The pandemic has exposed the main weaknesses of health responses in the world, reflecting also on the prevention of non-infectious diseases. The Covid pandemic has transformed people's lives, but it has also given a twist when it comes to the organization of health care systems in order to strengthen preventive work. Methods and Objectives: In this study, we analyzed the method of health promotion and the response of patients to screening programs within the Prevention Center of the Pancevo Health Center. The results covered the period from 2018 to 2023. Results: In the period before the Covid-19 pandemic, the health education work in the group was significantly higher compared to the individual approach (p<0.05). The response of patients for the screening of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases was significantly higher compared to the screening for depression (p<0.01). In the post-covid period, individual health education work increased significantly (p<0.01). Comparing the pre-Covid and post-Covid period, screening for diabetes increased by 5%, screening for cardiovascular risk increased by 10%, while screening for early detection of depression increased by 35%. Conclusions: Primary health care is the carrier of preventive activities. In order to achieve satisfactory results in disease prevention after the Covid-19 pandemic, primary health care systems should develop plans that will achieve better results for the population in the long term. The pandemic was the trigger for the development of new technologies. By monitoring the response of the population to screening programs, it is necessary to increase the activities of individual and/or group work on health promotion, cooperation of health institutions, practical implications, acceleration of technology adoption in public health practice.
Assessment of the needs of the type and scope of speech therapy services in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Ninić Danijela , Ružić Dragana , Mihailović Isidora
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Speech and language disorders are irregularities in pronunciation and language expression that affect all modalitites of speech and voice, articulation and language structure. Psychophysiological disorders and speech pathology represent a global problem and according to the World Health Organization, psychophysiological disorders are on the rise. Method: Data sources used in the analysis: invoiced realization for primary, secondary and tertiary health care of the Republic Fund for Health Insurance, Register of children with developmental disabilities, Health statistics yearbook of the Republic of Serbia 2021, Institutee of Public Health of Serbia, summary data on the assessment of the type and scope of services provided to children with pathology of verbal communication, behavior, learning and socialization that can not be provided in institutions from the Plan of the Network of Health Institutions. Results: In 2023, a total of 223,592 speech therapist/defectologist services were invoiced in primary health care , which is 11.1% more than in 2022, while a total of 182,644 services were invoiced at the secondary and tertiary level. More than half of the children (58.1%) who are included in the screening, the speech function test, have a need for speech therapy/defectology treatment, while in a quarter of the children, the treatment was not fully implemented. In Serbia the total number of children with speech disabilities as part of the basic diagnosis is 992. Total in all health institutions at all levels of health care on July 4,2024. were employed 349 speech therapist/defectologists. Conclusion: Based on the collected data, it was observed that the number of children who need speech therapy treatment is increasing, as well as that there is a lack of staff in some institutions, which makes it difficult to provide health care.
Working conditions during the COVID-19 epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus of non-medical staff
Authors: Manojlović Miroslav , Vujković Branko
Published: October 2024

Background: The service for legal, economic-financial, technical and other similar affairs of the Institute of Public Health of Sabac employs non-medical staff and ensures the smooth and legal operation of the Institute. Methods and Objectives: In addition to the above tasks, during the COVID-19 epidemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, this Service provided selfless help to engaged health workers and associates, organizing safe conditions for all persons during testing, maintaining order, the prescribed distance and wearing personal protective equipment. Employees of the Service were on duty in the customer service, providing information to interested parties in accordance with the orders received. An additional task is a large number of seekers of information of public importance, which primarily related to the declared epidemic of COVID-19. Results: The priority task was to determine measures and activities that increase and improve the safety and health of employees in order to prevent the occurrence of an infectious disease, as well as in the event of an epidemic of an infectious disease. With its plan of measures and activities, the institution determines preventive measures and organization of work processes that will ensure a higher level of safety and health at work for employees and persons engaged in work. In order to reduce the risk of infection and the spread of infection, general and special preventive measures and recommendations are applied at the level of the entire organization, which all employees adhere to. All employees respected the work procedure with the use of prescribed means and equipment for personal protection at work and other protection measures during the epidemic. During the epidemic, the employer provided all prescribed means and equipment for personal protection at work. Conclusion: Non-medical workers responded effectively to the emergency.
Relationship between nurse's role in relieving pain in palliative care and treatment protocols in these patients
Authors: Allushi Evis , Siqeca Velisa , Prifti Vasilika
Published: October 2024

Background: For patients during palliative care, pharmacological therapy is not always the solution to pain, but skills based on being present for the other person, communication and active listening are also necessary. Palliative care requires a holistic approach to care that is attentive to 'suffering that encompasses all of a person's physical, psychological, social, spiritual and practical struggles'. Methods and Objectives: The purpose of the paper is to present the role of the nurse in the management of the total pain of the person in palliative care, compliance with the protocols and their management during the advanced stage of the disease. This study was carried out in the period September-January 2023-2024, at the Vlora Regional Hospital. For its realization, 3 questionnaires were distributed to 110 nurses. The measuring instruments of the study are: questionnaire for nurses; socio-demographic data; questionnaire for nursing knowledge on palliative care protocols; questionnaire on nursing behaviors on palliative care follow-up. Results: According to the results data, 60.9% of nurses state that they are informed about the existence of a palliative care protocol, while 39.1% state that they are not. The value of p< 0.05 means that the educational level of nurses affects the ease of using the protocol. 45.5% of nurses think that the main area that should be treated during palliative care is psychological symptoms. The analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in patient satisfaction and positive change. The results of the study showed that sharing the first information about the patient's illness is very shocking and traumatic for the family and the patient. Conclusions: The Palliative Service is not well organized and the health personnel have a great need for information in this field. Interventions for managing the risk and presence of total pain include, in addition to controlling physical symptoms with pharmacological therapy, the possibility of managing sensations, emotions, worries and fears through the use of non-pharmacological strategies.
Suicides in Belgrade, 2018 - 2022
Authors: Vujetić Momčilo , Miltenović Svetlana , Vučević Mira , Rosić Nataša
Published: October 2024

Background: Every year more than 700.000 people globally take their own life and many more attempt suicide. These events affect families, communities and society, with long-lasting effects on the people left behind. Adequate surveillance and monitoring of suicide and suicide attempts is required for effective prevention strategies. Analysis of suicides in Belgrade can also raise awareness of mental disorders within population. Methods and Objectives: In this article we analyzed mortality data - suicides from the database of deceased persons that belongs to the Institute of public health of Belgrade. The following features are included: number of suicides - total, by gender, average age, method of execution, month and day of violent event. Also, mortality rates are shown - total and by gender in a period of time 2018 - 2022. Results: In observed period of time, 69% of suicides was among male. Intentional self-harm by hanging, strangulation and suffocation was presented 42,8%. The highest number and frequency of suicides observing the days of the week were on Tuesday (14,4%) and Thursday (14,2%). When it comes to the months of the year, 10,5% suicides registered in July and 10% in October. The average age of victims among man was 56,9 years, 61,4 among women. Highest standardized incidence rate of suicides was in 2018 (7,1/100.000 semi-European population), while ordinary standardized rate had highest value in 2019 (8,6/100.000 population of Belgrade). Conclusions: Man perform suicide more often than women, hanging, strangulation and suffocation is the most common method. July and Tuesday are most critical for these violent deaths, female victims are older. Regular and semi-European standardized rates have decreasing trend in a five years period.
Smartphone use and ASD-like symptoms: Case report of "virtual autism"
Authors: Milošević Tatjana
Published: October 2024

Background: "Virtual autism" is a condition that occurs when young children below the age of two are excessively exposed to screens which leads to ASD-like symptoms. They face communication problems, decrease cognition and often show behaviour oddities. When screen exposure is stopped and associated with daily moments of dyadic interaction, we need couple of months to distinguish classical from "virtual autism". Methods and Objectives: There is a report of a 23-month old male toddler who had ASD-like symptoms due to early-life intensive screen exposure, which was later replaced with parent-child social time and interaction. Results: Used tools for early child development assessment were: M-CHAT-R/F (Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers) and IGMCD (International Guide for Monitoring Child Development). At first assessment when he was 23 months old, M-CHAT-R/F was 9/20. IGMCD: expressive/receptive language at the level of 11-13 months, play 11-13 months, gross motor 24-36 months, fine motor 17-19 months, relating 20-24 months, self-help 17-19 months. This child had marked improvements in developmental milestones when screen time was replaced with parent-child social time, adequate interaction and joint attention. After 7 months, at his age of 30 months, M-CHAT-R/F was 0/20. On IGMCD he reached all the goals for 24-36 months, except fine motor skills. Parents got new instructions for fine motor skill activities, advice for additional speech therapist assessment and enrollment in kindergarten. Conclusions: Modern devices such as smartphone, tablet and computer, can't communicate with children. Parent-child social time, adequate interaction, joint attention and age-appropriate stimulation are necessary for speech development, social interactions and communication. A minimum of three months screen-free regimen for overexposed younger children with ASD symptoms is needed, accompanied by daily playful interaction with the parents, to differentiate between classical and "virtual autism".
Serbian Journal of Public Health as an interdisciplinary resource in meeting public health challenges: A thematic analysis
Authors: Vujnović Larisa , Milošević Nevena
Published: October 2024

Background: Major public health challenges of the 21st century: aging population, non-communicable diseases with the associated risk factors, mental health conditions, emerging and established communicable diseases, antimicrobial resistance, environmental crises, increasingly frequent public health emergencies, infodemics, vaccine mistrust and rapid development of technology call for accessible, vetted information and knowledge exchange among scientists, policy-makers and practitioners. Peer-reviewed journals offer reliable information and may be a key resource. Serbian Journal of Public Health was renewed in 2021 with this purpose as an open-access, peer-reviewed, bilingual scientific journal with public health scope. Methods and Objectives: To assess the role of Serbian Journal of Public Health (SerbJPH) in the described setting a qualitative study was conducted on 85 articles across 11 issues of Serb JPH published between December 2021 and June 2024, using a six-step thematic analysis of the titles, abstracts and keywords. Results: The study identified 12 main topics, highlighting the journal's multidisciplinarity. The most common identified public-health themes were: non-communicable disease control and detection, prevention and management of communicable diseases appearing in 32.9% and 25.8% of the articles, respectively. The most frequent sub-topic was COVID-19, found in 14.1% of the articles, with a peak in 2022. Other themes of note were: laboratory diagnostics (major sub-theme: genotyping), public health emergencies preparedness and management, vaccinology, universal health coverage (major sub-themes: quality of care and public health workforce), mental health, child and adolescent health, health information system and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Majority of articles referred to multiple topics, showing interdisciplinary approach not only within the journal as a whole but also within each study. Conclusions: Themes identified in SerbJPH correspond to current major public health challenges and hence are highly relevant. Offering peer-reviewed information that is highly accessible, both in the local language - Serbian and the lingua franca of science - English, as an open source model available digitally and in print, SerbJPH makes a platform for sharing experience and evidence-based knowledge among healthcare providers, policy makers, scientists and community organisations contributing to the overarching goal of improving health outcomes. Its interdisciplinary approach highlights the complexity of public health challenges requiring collaborative solutions.
Non-communicable diseases prevention programme in the city of Belgrade 2024-2030 (NCDSPP)
Authors: Stefanović Nemanja
Published: October 2024

Background: Significant prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles in the population of Belgrade, reflected in the available 2019 data on tobacco use (27.8% smokes every day), alcohol use (2.4% drinks every day), unhealthy diets (57.1% overweight and 20.8% obese adults) and physical inactivity (19.7% engages in aerobic physical activity ≥150 min per week) required a systematic and long term public health approach, resulting in the creation of NCDsPP, which encompassed the key analytical findings, principles and activities in the field of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) prevention for the 2024-2030 period. Methods and Objectives: Descriptive and analytic study of the core elements of the Noncommunicable diseases prevention programme in the City of Belgrade 2024-2030, with objective of summarizing the key aspects of the document. Results: The NCDsPP gives an overview of NCDs prevalence through situational analysis, followed by programme's principles and goals, with a conclusive section on programme activities. Situational analysis provides a comprehensive summary of the occurrence of 4 main NCDs risk factors, as well as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes in the population of Belgrade, establishing an evidencebased background for practical action. Programme's principles and goals form a theoretical framework, which will direct the defined preventive activities. Programme activities constitute the main section of the document, proposing preventive activities to be implemented in the community, as well as their content, performance indicators and expected results in the 5 main fields of activity: programme management, prevention of harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, unhealthy diets and tobacco use. Conclusions: The NCDsPP should establish a conceptual basis for the forthcoming preventive action in the area of NCDs in the City of Belgrade for the 2024-2030 period. Evidence-based preventive activities should become a standard for every future initiative on control and prevention of NCDs.
Cervical cancer prevention: Health promotion activities in Belgrade
Authors: Andrić Aleksandra
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Cervical cancer, has been one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among the female population in Serbia. In Belgrade more than 4800 women are diagnosed with this disease and most cases in the age group between 40 - 59 years. Methods and objectives: The aim is to review the health promotion activities carried out in the period 2020-2024 on the occasion of the European Cervical Cancer Prevention Week by the Institute of Public Health Belgrade (hereinafter referred to as the Institute) and Belgrade primary health care institutions (hereinafter referred to as Belgrade PHC institutions). Descriptive data analysis is used to summarize and interpret collected data on health promotion activities. Results: The Institute's activities were implemented through the production of health promotion materials (10 info sheets, posters and video presentations), organizing and performing two health promotion events and overall coordination of the activities among PHC institutions in Belgrade. Online materials were also shared with the City Library, through the websites and portals. More than 16,000 printed leaflets were distributed to primary health care institutions in Belgrade. The Institute's activities were also oriented towards preparation and implementation of five accredited educational courses for health professionals. More than 200 participants from the Belgrade PHC institutions were attending these courses. Main topics were related to the importance of early detection of disease and HPV immunization. Conclusion: Different health promotion activities were implemented in Belgrade in order to increase awareness of population about effective preventive measures. Considering the importance of disease early detection and awareness of population about available services at PHC institutions, it is necessary to intensify promotional activities involving all partners in the community.
Family violence: Socio-economic problem and public health problem
Authors: Hristov-Mitić Lucija , Nešić Danijela
Published: October 2024

Domestic violence is a social problem that has consequences for the physical and mental health of the exposed individual, but also for the safety and well-being of the entire community. It often manifests as physical, psychological, sexual and economic violence. The mentioned forms of violence are rarely observed individually, but mostly as a combination of two or more forms. There is also so-called passive abuse, which is very subtle and includes victimization and spiritual and intellectual neglect. That is why domestic violence is a public health problem and its solution requires a determined multisectoral approach The aim of the work was to analyze the socio-demographic characteristics of victims of domestic violence as well as their consequences. A retrospective analysis of the protocols of the Adult Health Care Service of the Niš Health Center on a sample of 232 respondents, for the period from 2013 to July 2024, showed that the dominant form of violence in the family is physical violence. It is most often reported by urban residents, who are married or cohabiting, but serious physical injuries are less often reported. Domestic violence in the examined sample predominantly appears in the age group 34-49 years. The most applications were in 2019, and the least in 2021. The results of this research should enable the design of appropriate standards, as well as preventive programs and strategies in the fight against domestic violence, where primary health care can be of great benefit.
Leading groups of rare diseases by age in the Republic of Serbia, 2013-2022
Authors: Miljuš Dragan , Plavšić Snežana , Rakočević Ivana , Živković-Perišić Snežana , Mickovski-Katalina Nataša , Božić Zorica
Published: October 2024

Background: Rare diseases are a heterogeneous group of approximately 7,000 diseases, which have a common feature of low frequency. According to the definition of the European Commission, rare diseases occur in a maximum of five out of 10,000 people in the general population. Methods and Objectives: In order to analyze the leading rare diseases by age, data from the Register of persons suffering from rare diseases in Serbia for the period 2013-2022 were analyzed. Absolute distributions and proportions of patients with rare diseases were used. Results: Based on the data of the register of persons suffering from rare diseases, in the period from 2013 to 2022, a total of 5914 persons with rare diseases were registered in Serbia. The rarest diseases were registered in the age group 18-64 (41.6%), followed by the ages: 6-17 (18.0%), 0-1 (14.8%) and in 65 years and older (13.3%). The least number of registered rare diseases was in the age group of 2-5 (12.3%). At the youngest age (0-1), almost every third child (35.3%) was registered as a rare disease in the group of diseases of glands with internal secretion, nutrition and metabolism (ICD 10: E00-E90). Rare diseases in the group of diseases of the musculoskeletal system (ICD 10: M00-M99) were most prevalent in the ages: older than 65 (57.8%), 18-64 (51.5%) and 2-5 (22 ,1%). Diseases of endocrine glands, nutrition and metabolism (ICD 10: E00-E90) were most common in the age group 6-17 (23.7%). In the group of injuries and poisoning (ICD 10: S00-T98), the least rare diseases (0.1%) were recorded in all the age categories shown. Conclusions: Congenital deformities and chromosomal anomalies are most common in the youngest age group, while diseases of the musculoskeletal system are most prevalent in the elderly.
From neoliberal to strategic competition: What will happen to Serbia?
Authors: Labus Miroljub
Published: October 2024

The disintegration of the world's market and the outbreak of the global crisis show that something went wrong with the process of globalization, which dominated in the previous period. The current crisis of globalization is called deglobalization, and it takes place as strategic competition between the leading economies of the world replaces liberal competition. Consequently, global trade has been falling apart into two trading blocks. The main question is how to protect small open economies from the negative outcomes of such changes. An additional problem for Serbia is that, due to the war in Ukraine, the EU decided to neutralise Russian influence by accelerating the harmonization of the Western Balkans' market with its internal market. That does not guarantee Serbia formal EU membership but imposes a strategic partnership in supplying strategic raw materials. Nevertheless, that is a development opportunity for Serbia, but the price might be (too) high concerning potential damage to the environment and public health.
Video surveillance and personal data protection in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Petrović Zlatko
Published: October 2024

The aim of the paper is to provide a comparative overview of the normative regulation of video surveillance at the level of the European Union and the normative regulation of video surveillance in the Republic of Serbia. All issues in the field of personal data protection arising from the use of video surveillance, both in the public and private sectors, are inextricably linked to normative solutions in the European Union. The author concludes that the use of video surveillance in the Republic of Serbia is not fully and systematically regulated, which creates a number of problems, among which the violation of citizens' rights stands out as the biggest.
The identification of a person or an object by an eyewitness
Authors: Dragović Svjetlana
Published: October 2024

Giving testimony is a general duty of all individuals and entails a range of obligations, among which is the obligation of a witness to give a statement. Giving a statement means providing information about the criminal act, the perpetrator, and other important circumstances surround the specific case. However, in situations where, for instance, it is necessary to determine whether an eyewitness can identify a person or objects, an eyewitness identification procedure must be conducted. This means that in addition to giving a statement, in cases where it is necessary, an eyewitness is also asked to identify a person or an object. Person and object identification is a complex process. It is commonly stated that identification involves two phases: the description phase and the presentation phase for the purpose of identification. This construction is likely a result of legal formulation stating that if it is necessary to determine whether an eyewitness can identify a person or an object, the eyewitness must first describe the object to be identified, and then the object must be presented to them for identification. However, each of these phases involves a series of activities that must be undertaken, which are highly sensitive and largely determine the outcome of identification. Additionally, the procedural rules regarding identification are tentative and insufficient. Successful identification requires knowledge of and adherence to the rules prescribed by forensic science and psychology. All of these actions make the process of eyewitness identification very complex and demanding. Considering that the identification of persons and objects is realized within witness hearings as an evidentiary action in criminal proceedings, identification is officially recorded, and the record can serve as evidence in criminal proceedings. Of course, its evidentiary strength is assessed by the court in accordance with the rules that apply to the evaluation of other evidence.
Silicon nonspecifically affects aggressiveness in Fusarium head blight pathogens
Authors:   Department of Agriculture, Atomic Energy Commission of Syria, Damascus, Nachaat Sakr
Published: October 2024

Silicon (Si) has been largely regarded to have no selection pressure on plant pathogens because it regulates plant defense system to reduce pathogen infection and development and does not directly affect pathogen itself; however, its effect seems to be specific in some pathogen-host plant interactions. In Fusarium head blight (FHB), associated with devastating agronomic effects on total yield and grain quality, which infects higher Si-absorbers and –accumulators wheat and barley plants; its effect on aggressiveness is unknown. To clarify the nature of reduction of FHB symptoms upon Si treatment at the earliest and latest development stages, we analyzed Si effect on nine aggressiveness components obtained under several experimental conditions. We used 16 fungal isolates of varying aggressiveness and eight bread wheat, durum wheat and barley cultivars with contrast susceptibility to disease. The positive effect of Si on enhancing host resistance against Fusarium infection in the young and adult host parts showed that the nine components evaluated in this study were negatively impacted by Si. Definitely, Si at 1.7 mM reduced equally FHB symptoms from the highest and least pathogenic isolates of the four tested Fusarium species regardless of botanical background for the used plant materials. This indicates for the first time that Si nonspecifically affects aggressiveness in FHB pathogens. Our results reveal that Si could be a valuable tool in integrated pathogen management by suppressing pathogen development on wheat and barley when affected by Fusarium. Most importantly, no hazard exists to emergence of Si-resistant pathogen populations upon Si applications on diverse FHB populations.
Effect Of Substrate Plate Heating On Retained Austenite Content And Cracking Susceptibility Of A Carbide-Rich Tool Steel
Authors: Scheck Marie Luise , Santos Batista Rui Joao , Herzog Simone , Kaletsch Anke , Häfner Constantin , Broeckmann Christoph
Published: October 2024

Processing carbide-rich tool steels with laser-based powder bed fusion is challenging as cracks occur frequently. Substrate plate preheating is commonly applied to improve the processability as the temperature gradients are lowered and stresses reduced. The modified temperature gradients alter the microstructure formation of the alloy. In this study, a carbide-rich tool steel was processed at RT, 500°C and 800°C substrate plate preheating which lead to different precipitated carbide and retained austenite contents. The high substrate plate heating of 800°C significantly reduced cracking of the alloy and a fully martensitic microstructure was obtained. In the samples built at RT or 500°C, the lower diffusion hinders carbide precipitation and thus leads to austenite stabilization. These specimens show cracks despite their higher retained austenite contents. Here, the retained austenite has a high hardness, and therefore it is assumed that it is distorted, brittle and thus cannot prevent crack growth within the specimens.