bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Addressing challenges to cancer control in Ireland due to the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: McCarthy T , Burns H , Lyng A , Mullen L , O'Toole E 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic presented a wide range of challenges to cancer control. People with possible symptoms of cancer were considered less likely to present for investigation. Patients with cancer were concerned about increased risk of illness or death from this novel virus. Cancer services had to ensure continued delivery of time-sensitive care. Public health skills and leadership have been key to Ireland's National Cancer Control Programme's COVID response. The multi-disciplinary skill set within the Programme includes an understanding of health protection principles, experience in rapid service redesign, monitoring of service delivery, patient and public communication, advocacy and guidance development, all of which have been integral to the pandemic response. Specific areas addressed include: rapid turnaround of guidance documents for cancer services, to minimise Covid-19 risk; patient information materials for those on treatment or with a history of cancer; development of novel service delivery mechanisms, such as a virtual national psycho-oncology service; a media campaign to combat decreased presentations with possible cancer and to reassure those currently on treatment; development of pre-surgical cocooning guidance and testing pathway; advocating for prioritisation of time-sensitive cancer diagnosis and treatment, and the wider health & wellbeing needs of those cocooning; advocating for and supporting the implementation of priority vaccination for those undergoing cancer treatment. Cross-sectoral collaboration has been facilitated by existing networks and relationships, allowing rapid responses to be deployed and actioned. The leaner guidance development process employed during the pandemic enabled timely response. A two-way communication system with cancer services allowed swift cascade of information and gathering of intelligence which empowered action. Learning from the cancer setting was transferable to other high-risk groups.

Key messages
The potential impact of the pandemic on non-COVID care was far reaching, including at all stages of the cancer patient journey, from pre-diagnosis to living with or beyond cancer. The programmatic approach to cancer control in Ireland facilitated concerted efforts to respond to the challenges posed by the pandemic.
Effects of partner support on life satisfaction cisgender and transgender adolescents
Authors: Ciria-Barreiro E , Moreno-Maldonado C , Rivera F , Moreno C 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Among gender minority youth the effect of family, school, peer, and community support are positively associated with emotional well-being, feelings of safety, or improved mental health. However, most research addressing the partner's role in gender minority adolescents have focused on risk behaviors (STI/HIV infection, unplanned pregnancy...) or intimate-partner violence. Because research has seldomly adopted a positive approach, little is known about the effect of partner support on transgender youth health?

Methods
The sample consisted of 170 transgender and 535 cisgender adolescents (selected through a matching process) 15 to 18 years-old who participated in the 2018 HBSC survey in Spain. Emotional Support was measured using the Network of Relationships Inventory (NRI) and Life-Satisfaction with Cantril Ladder. Means comparisons, hierarchical multiple linear regression and interaction tests were performed to contrast differences between the two groups, and to check the possible buffer effect of gender identity on the relationship between partner support and life satisfaction.

Results
Transgender adolescents scored lower in life satisfaction than cisgender peers. No differences were found between groups in the perception of emotional support, however emotional support was positively related to life satisfaction. Lastly, the relationship between partner support and life satisfaction was not moderated by gender identity.

Conclusions
This research showed that cisgender and transgender adolescents do not have differences in partner support, and highlights the overall positive benefit of partner support for health. Using a positive approach to better understand the impact of romantic relationships during adolescence will contribute to build strong network of assets for gender minority youths' positive development.

Key messages
Researching the development of trans adolescents requires the use of approaches that do not pathologize their realities. Individual and contextual assets should be considered to promote empowerment and well-being.
Regional differences in Bulgarian population ageing
Authors: Tsanova D , Yankulovska S , Grancharova G 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Europeans are living longer than ever, and the age profile of society is rapidly changing. Despite the observed improvement in public health in the European region, for many people old age is accompanied by a high risk of social exclusion and poverty, limited access to quality health and social services, especially in countries with economies in transition. This poses serious challenges for individuals and society. This report aims to analyse the basic regional differences of ageing in Bulgaria.

Methods
Information from the World Bank Open Data was used to calculate the basic indicators: proportion of people 65+ and ageing index for selected European countries. To estimate the rate of change, the growth of ageing index (in %) was calculated on a constant basis in 1970. The regional differences of ageing for Bulgarian population were analysed based on the National Statistical Institute data. The absolute numbers for regions were regrouped and the main indicators for population ageing were calculated. Analysis and calculation procedures were performed by Microsoft Office Excel 2019.

Results
By 2019, in fourteen of sixteen selected European countries, the ageing index exceeded 100%, and in four countries, it was even over 150%: Italy (174.78%), Portugal (168.70%), Greece (157.89%) and Bulgaria (150.07%). In Bulgaria, the proportion of people 65+ was 21.64% with great differences by regions. The highest proportions were found for Vidin and Gabrovo (29,94% and 29.05% respectively) compared to 19.24% for Varna and 17.70% for Sofia. The ageing index varies from 109.40% for the region of Sliven, 126.38% for Varna and 119.91% for Sofia to 248.63% for Vidin, 248.17% for Gabrovo, and 227.98% for Kyustendil, which are the regions with lower availability of health care.

Conclusions
The profound regional differences in population ageing impose permanent monitoring and directing the regional social and public health policies to avoid unfavourable effects of this process.

Key messages
The change of health status with increasing age is a challenge for the capacity of the health systems, especially for provision of long-term care, to cover the needs of the elderly. It is of utmost importance to develop policies and conditions for long-term and palliative care and for improvement of services and living conditions to ensure a better quality of life.
Engaging men and boys in gender equity programs in humanitarian settings: A scoping review
Authors: Dagher M , Abdulrahim S , Witt C 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Engaging men and boys in interventions designed to achieve gender equity has demonstrated positive impact on reducing gender-based violence (GBV) and improving women's and girls' health. This scoping review describes the content of published gender equity programs that engage men/boys in humanitarian settings.

Methods
We searched five databases for peer-reviewed articles of GBV programs implemented with men/boys in humanitarian settings (published between Jan 2000 and Dec 2019). From each article, we extracted information on program evaluation strategies, theoretical frameworks, and modes of adaptation to the humanitarian setting.

Results
Of 21 published articles of GBV programs with men/boys (implemented in 17 countries), the majority utilized a psychosocial (attitudes) or structural (feminism) theory and only seven were not theoretically based. As to evaluation, nine programs employed quantitative methods whilst the rest employed qualitative or mixed methods; outcome evaluation data were gathered from both men only or men and women. In most articles, authors described how they developed the program taking into account the humanitarian setting and incorporated practical delivery components to overcome contextual barriers.

Conclusions
In describing the content of published GBV interventions that include men/boys in humanitarian settings, this scoping review can guide future efforts to improve women's/girls' health. Such programs can help realize SDG5 to “achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.”

Key messages
Including men in interventions designed to improve women’s/girls’ health in humanitarian settings is critical. A scoping review of the published literature can identify existing knowledge and guide future programs.
“PNSVEI” - Model of innovation development in health education
Authors: Wrzesinska Magdalena 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Issue
Health awareness plays an important role in strengthening health potential and determines engagement in health promotion and prevention activities, especially during pandemic. For this reason, an innovative approach to health education is necessary to encourage society to become active in this area.

Description of the problem
The aim of the presentation is to show a model of innovation development in health education called the “PNSVEI” (Problem, Need, Solution, Validation, Implementation). This model has been developed based on the experiences collected during health educational products development and their implementation during regular educational interventions focused on knowledge improvement regarding healthy lifestyle among Polish school students in the last five years.

Results
The model consists of two main phases: development and validation of solution in health education. The development step involves defining the problem and need of the target group, and solution prototype development based on the defined need and co-creation process.
Validation includes experimental prototype testing in cooperation with different stakeholders, final prototype development, possible intellectual property process, than research evaluation and implementation to the society.

Lessons
The “PNSVEI” Model shows that the research evaluation and innovation implementation in health education area should be preceded by multi-directional actions and requires the cooperation of researchers with different stakeholders. Intellectual property certificates increase possibility to acquire business sponsorship what may give the chances of raising funds for future evaluations of solutions by researchers. Defining the needs of the target group, their engagement in the co-creation process and experimental prototype testing increase the chances of implementing health educational solutions to the population.

Key messages
Implementation of innovation in health education should be preceded by multi-directional actions. Need definition of stakeholders increase the chance of implementation in health education.
COVID-19 predictability in Portugal using Google Trends
Authors: Paiva Monteiro G , Barroso Travassos S , Miguel Carvalho J , Marques R , Fernandes D , Portela D 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Infodemiology is a valuable public health tool which analyses internet sources and real-time data to establish populational trends, thus assisting disease surveillance. Google trends (GT) is a popular infodemiology source widely used in previous reports to study the correlation between internet relative search volume (RSV) and surges in various pathologies. This study aims to explore the association between GT and Covid-19 symptoms and to access the possibility of predicting new surges from internet searches.

Methods
Individual data was extracted from GT RSV on four main Covid-19 related symptoms in the Health category (fever, headache, cough and shortness of breath) in Portugal between 2020/03/02 and 2021/02/15, corresponding to each of the identified surges of daily new cases (DNC) in Portugal, retrieved from GitHub. Pearson's-correlation coefficient was used for assessment. Additionally, a 14 days time-lag correlation analysis between data for the same period of time was performed.

Results
Statistically significant correlations were found between ‘fever' web searches and the DNC in the first (p = 0.02) and third (p = 0.02) wave. No statistically significant correlations were found between any other variables. Through time lag analysis, we found a maximum Pearson association between web searches for ‘cough' and the DNC during the first wave at 14 days (r = 0.55), as well as during the third wave, with a maximum association at 3 days time lag (r = 0.55).

Conclusions
Monitoring behaviour and public interest in health related issues, such as crisis, is necessary and may help in the establishment of better and target oriented health policies. Despite previously stated potential, constraints such as the exclusion of social media platforms or internet users' representativeness, could partly explain our limited results for portuguese predictability of new COVID-19 surges. A better understanding of GT's algorithm may lead to more detailed and precise data.

Key messages
Monitoring behaviour and public interest in health related issues is necessary to establish better and more targeted health policies. Google trends seems to be an helpful infodemiology source, but doesn’t allow for full representation of the population and needs better understanding.
Dutch Public health Foresight Study, in the light of COVID-19
Authors: Hilderink H , Eisinger E 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
The future consequences of the corona pandemic for health are significant but uncertain. The Dutch Public health Foresight Study-2020 (PHFS-2020) analyses future trends in health status, determinants, prevention and care, in the light of COVID-19. The pandemic impacts health directly through COVID-19 and indirectly through changes in lifestyle, reduced regular care and socio-economic developments.

Methods
The Dutch PHFS-2020 applies a scenario approach which explores short- and long-term trends and their possible effect on health and health care. A Trendscenario is used, in combination with three scenarios for the future course of the pandemic and socio-economic developments. Based on these scenarios, societal challenges for the future are identified.

Results
In 2020, COVID-19 was the most important causes of death in 2020, life expectancy was almost a year lower and the disease burden of the first wave was almost five times higher than an average flu season. The increase in overweight and smoking will lead to more health loss in the future, including increased mortality. The negative impacts of reduced health care and mental health are already visible and might worsen in the future. The socio-economic and intergenerational divides might become more prominent.

Conclusions
The PHFS-2020 shows that indirect effects of the crisis might be taken into account when considering future policy interventions targeting COVID-19. Negative impacts on mental health, possible increase of health inequalities and the long term effects of changes in life style are important indirect effects to be considered by policy makers. Next, a further ageing population might increase the vulnerability for possible future outbreaks.

Key messages
The results of this study supports broader consideration of measures and to be better prepared in the future. Public Health foresight help to be better prepared for future possible developments.
Investigation of Epidemiological Characteristics of &lt; 18-Year-Old Patients with Covid-19 ın a City
Authors: Gokce A , Ozer A , Soyiler V , Gundogdu ME 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
After the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) became a pandemic, the World Health Organization declared it to be a public health emergency. The population aged &gt;of 18 years in Bingol province is 72766 and constitutes 25.8% of the entire population. This study aimed to examine the epidemiological characteristics of &lt; 18-year-old patients with COVID-19 in Bingol Province.

Methods
In this study 1431 people aged &lt;18 who tested positive on reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in Bingol province between March and December 2020 were studied.The necessary institutional permission and ethics committee approval were obtained to conduct the study. The independent variables of the study were age, gender and place of residence, whereas the dependent variable was the development of pneumonia. Descriptive data were expressed as numbers and percentages, and Chi-Square test was used for statistical analysis. P &lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results
The median age of the study patients was 14 (0-17) years. Of the patients, 99.8% did not have any comorbidity and 96% presented with a good clinical condition. Of the patients, 91.1% were home-isolated and 6.9% developed pneumonia. Pneumonia developed at significantly higher rate in the age groups of 0-4 and 5-9 years compared with other age groups (p = 0.004). There was no significant difference in the development of pneumonia according to gender and comorbidity (p &gt; 0.05).

Conclusions
The rate of pneumonia development was low in the study group. The clinical condition of most of the patients was good, and they isolated at home. Pneumonia developed at a higher rate in younger patients.

Key messages
COVID-19 has a milder prognosis in patients aged&lt;18 years. Among the patients aged &lt;18 years, pneumonia develops at a higher rate in younger patients.
Public health recovery - building back healthier and more resilient societies
Authors: Koornstra A , Boode K 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

During the Covid-pandemic it became clear that some groups were suffering more from the regulations against the spread of the virus than from the virus itself. To ensure social support for the regulations and to avoid increasing social economic health differences, the Dutch Association of Municipal Health Services (GGD GHOR Nederland) started a program. It was based on a plan form a group of doctors working in these health services and who worried about the health impact and wanted to strengthen the resistance against the virus and the resilience to cope with the lockdown. The aim was to build back better health on the level of society. individual Covid-patients received recovery care to gather strength - and so should public health build back a stronger and healthier society. The program consists of three parts: extensive monitoring of the impact of Covid-19, mitigating effects of the lockdown on lifestyle and mental/social wellbeing and seizing the political moment to strengthen prevention in public policy and in care. We will present examples of actions taken and their results.

Key messages
Societies need public health to recover from the impact of Covid-19, both the disease and the regulations taken to prevent spreading the virus. It is crucial to seize the moment to build back better health, both professionally to improve our services and politically to strengthen public health.
Prognostic factors of self-rated health deterioration during Covid-19 in the Baltic States
Authors: Mikelsone M , Reine I 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
In order to implement the necessary measures to prevent the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemics, long-term assessment of health status is needed. The objective of the study - to determine the prognostic factors of self-rated health deterioration during the first wave of Covid-19 pandemics.

Methods
The study was based on a sample of individuals from wave 7, wave 8 and Covid-19 add-on of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) in the period from 2017 till 2020. The sample size was 4429 respondents - Latvia: 649, Lithuania: 1083, Estonia: 2697. Descriptive statistics as well as univariate and multivariate binary logistic regression was performed, including health determinants, demographics and factors associated with Covid-19.

Results
Based on univariate binary logistic regression analysis, the main predictors for deterioration of self-rated health (unadjusted OR; 95%CI) were: age 80+ years (reference group 50-59 years) for Estonia (3.03; 2.93-3.14), diagnosed with major condition since Covid-19 for Latvia (15.45; 15.14-15.77) and Estonia (6.75; 6.57-6.94), fair or poor health since Covid-19 for Lithuania (4.92; 4.86-4.99), loneliness since Covid-19 for Lithuania (5.03; 4.94-5.12), limited in activities due to health condition for Latvia (4.53; 4.42-4.64), depression since Covid-19 for Lithuania (3.78-3.71-3.85), limited in activities due to age for Latvia (3.01; 2.95-3.08), nervousness since Covid-19 for Lithuania (2.08; 2.04-2.12). All predictors were statistically significant for all three Baltic countries.

Conclusions
The results in all three Baltic States indicated a similar trend that, taking into account the influence of other factors, the most important predictive factors were related to health and demographic indicators. Only one factor related to the first wave of Covid-19 (in Latvia - nervousness since Covid-19, in Lithuania and Estonia - less or no direct contact with children since Covid-19) predicts deterioration in health.

Key messages
The results indicate that deterioration in health cannot currently be considered to be caused by the first wave of Covid-19. Further research to assess long-term impact of Covid-19 to health is needed.
Psychological assistance at disaster in Bulgaria - contemporary policies for health risk management
Authors: Dimitrova D , Georgieva E 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Issue
Health risk management (HRM) in Bulgaria is provided to citizens in emergencies, disasters, accidents and catastrophes (E&DAC). According to the legislation in the country, this is a part of the mandatory package of medical provision for the injured population (MPIP) and concerns any acute life-threatening condition (LTC). In the dynamically changing environment of E&DAC, a special form of health consequences among survivors are related to mental health (MeH).

Description of the problem
In practice, any serious E&DAC has a direct or indirect psychological impact. It can manifest itself acutely or remotely over time, puts the victims in temporary or permanent disability and is followed by serious social effects. A strategy has been proposed for inclusion in the obligatory package of MPIP in case of significant E&DAC and primary psychological assistance (PPA) for every citizen who has survived.

Results
In the country, PPАs to citizens for decades is an on-demand service provided mainly by the private sector. Within the BRC, a group has been formed to provide PPA with a modest resource capacity. The emotional citizens culture in the country is far from active demand for PPA in general and severely limited in resources and the MeH is not a priority. This system of public health care, based on withdrawal from the MeH, also exposes to increased risk of psycho-somatic and distress-provoked physical illnesses (PSDPPhI).

Lessons
Carrying out timely PPA for those in need changes the range of adverse mental effects, reducing them. Provides a better adaptive response to reduced risk of PTSD and PSDPPhI. A volume of preventive measures organized in stages over time gives a greater chance to a larger number of victims.

Key messages
The health of the nation is a complex program for controlling both the acute health problems at E&DAC and the protection of MeH. To provide modern sustainable policies for the implication of PPA in everyone who has seriously experienced E&DAC is resulted in good health practices.