bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing health literacy among migrants and associated socioeconomic factors
Authors: Marques Maria J , Gama Ana , Mendonça Joana , Fernandes Adalberto Campo , Osborne Richard H , Dias Sónia 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Health literacy, the ability to understand, access, appraise, remember and use health information and health services, has great potential to reduce health inequalities and improve access to and quality of health care, particularly among groups that experience vulnerability, including migrant groups. Across Europe, including in Portugal, little is known about the health literacy strengths, needs and preferences among migrants. We aimed to assess the health literacy of diverse migrants living in Portugal and identify if health literacy needs differ across sociodemographic subgroups. A cross-sectional survey was administered to migrants living in Portugal. Data were collected using the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ), an internationally tested and robust multi-dimensional measurement tool with nine scales, and a demographic and socioeconomic questionnaire. Associations were tested using Welch's ANOVA. In total, 1126 adult migrants were surveyed: 53.4% female, mean age of 35.8 years (range 18-77), 48.9% from African countries, 29.5% from Middle East/Asian countries, 21.6% from Brazil. Low scores on most HLQ scales were clearly associated with sociodemographic characteristics such as lower levels of education: 1. Feeling understood and supported by healthcare providers (p = 0.045); 2. Having sufficient information to manage health (p &lt; 0.001); 3. Actively managing health (p = 0.036); 4. Social support for health (p = 0.001); 5. Appraisal of health information (p &lt; 0.001); 7. Navigating the health system (p = 0.031); 8. Finding health information (p = 0.007). Similar patterns were found for participants who were unemployed and with lower income (&lt;650€). Health literacy needs of migrant communities should be taken into account when designing interventions aiming to mitigate health inequalities and to promote health literacy. This is even more pertinent in the current context of the COVID-19, where its adverse social and economic impacts are likely to aggravate health inequalities.

Key messages
Lower health literacy is related to lower socioeconomic status. Mapping health literacy needs can inform interventions to mitigate health inequalities among vulnerable migrant groups.
Life skills training to promote health and well-being at school: an evaluation
Authors: Cattaneo C , Giovannelli I , De Nigris N , Russo E , Buoncristiano M , Rosa B , Ripoli G , Parenti I , Indorato E ,   “Life Skills” Working Group
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
In educational settings, health promotion refers to a whole-school approach to help individuals realize their potential, cope with the everyday stresses of life, work productively and fruitfully, and contribute to their community. In these regards, it is essential to enhance a vast repertoire of knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values, a narrower set of psychosocial skills (Life Skills - LS). The Local Health Unit of Palermo, the Centre of Training and the National Institute of Health (ISS) developed the project “Life Skills and resilience: effective strategies to promote health at school”.

Objectives
The project's general aim was to provide headteachers and teachers with methodologies and tools to develop and promote LS in educational settings. Through the participatory approach, training was structured in 5 modules of 16 hours each. The training activities began in October 2019 and ended online due to the Covid-19 emergency in July 2020. The evaluation plan provides the assessment of learning, satisfaction, monitoring and assessment of attitudes and behaviours using a validated questionnaire. The aim was to identify improvements in relationships inside and outside the school context and increase self-efficacy and job satisfaction among teachers. Data analysis is currently being processed.

Results
169 Teachers, 12 Healthcare workers attended the training. The preliminary results show that: i. there is an improvement in relationships between colleagues, students and parents; ii. there is a slight improvement in the perceived self-efficacy in managing negative emotions; iii. there is an improvement in the personal and collective effectiveness perceived in the school environment and job satisfaction.

Conclusions
The project was designed for implementing sustainable interventions. The advent of COVID-19 has allowed further reflection on the usefulness of this approach for promoting resilience and protective factors and managing the consequences of the pandemic.

Key messages
The training improved personal and professional skills on design and methods to apply LS. The use of qualitative/quantitative assessment made it possible to illustrate the entire training process.
Web content and social media analysis on children's lifestyles even during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Nardone P , Sampaolo L , Cattaneo C , Buoncristiano M , Carletti CV , Pani P , Menzano MT ,   Peer Education Working Group
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
One of the main aims of the project ‘Peer education as a tool to reach and involve families and schools in the promotion of healthy lifestyles of children' - funded by the Italian Ministry of Health - is the web & social media (SM) content analysis relating to children's eating habits, physical activity and sedentary behaviours. By discovering which influencers deal with health topics, when, how, and through which channels they do it, countermeasures can be planned, if needed, foreseeing better users' health literacy. This ‘web and social listening' and its analysis are even more relevant now at the pandemic, as the parents' use of the web and SM has increased.

Methods
Four areas of interest were selected: nutrition, physical activity, sedentary lifestyle and overweight. For each, keywords were defined to search for relevant content (mention). The data were collected between May and December 2020.

Results
The mentions collected were 38.146. Of these, 29.666 were used to contruct the panel of 3.100 citations subjected to qualitative analysis. The main Preliminary Results:
- Source type: social media 48%, web 52%. 45% of SM content were from Twitter, Instagram (40%), Facebook (14%) and YouTube (0.3%). Facebook accounts had the largest audience
Audience profile: 62% women and 38% men; 51% of these were 45-54 and 30% 35-44 years old The most relevant words were: physical activity, children, children's snack, correct nutrition References to the topic ‘COVID-19' in the mentions collected concerned 14% of the analysed content The main organisations, by volume of citations, were: World Health Organisation (12%); National Institute of Health (6%); Italian Food Union (6%); Istat (5.5%); Doxa (5%); OKkio alla Salute (5%); Ministry of Health (4%); Coldiretti (4%); UNICEF (3%).

Conclusions
The results will contribute to producing indications for health promotion and increasing Internet users' health literacy.

Key messages
Women are the main users of the topics investigated. Children and adolescents’ health was the central theme in the mentions collected relating to Covid-19.
Factors associated with the quality of life among paramedical students in Sousse governorate
Authors: Ben Nasrallah C , Ghammem R , Mihoubi A , Ben Rejeb M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
The process of paramedical education has been proved to be a challenging scenario that threatens students' physical and psychological health. Compared with students of the same age, paramedical students must be at higher occupational stress in adapting to their lifestyle. The academic pressure, severe daytime somnolence, lack of physical exercise and social interaction, can lead to a decreasing quality of life (QOL). The aim of our study was to assess the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of paramedical students in Sousse governorate and to find the associated factors that caused the variations among these students.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in the governorate of Sousse including a randomized sample of the nursing students during the 2017/2018 school year. The data were collected using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire including the 36-item short form survey (SF-36).

Results
A total of 448 students was included in the study with an average age of 20.74 (SD = 1.25) years and a sex-ratio of 0.70. The overall QOL score was 49.8 (SD = 11.6) with a significantly higher mental score impairment (45.3 (SD = 12.1)) than the physical score ((54.2 (SD = 15.6)). The independent associated factors with a decreasing HRQOL were: socioeconomic level, living away from family, means of transport, exams stress and insecurity in everyday life.

Conclusions
Our study showed a low score of QOL among health sciences students. HRQOL was influenced by socio-demographic, behavioral and environmental factors. Future interventions and programs should focus on these influencing factors in order to improve the quality of life among paramedical students.

Key messages
Knowledge of associated factors is important to implement appropriate programs. Findings may have important implications for institutions responsible for promoting active lifestyle.
Migration intention of final year medical students
Authors: Sylla AK , El Ouadih S , Barknan K , Hassoune S , Nani S 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
One out of three Moroccan doctors is out of the country, and the ratio doctor per population is 7.3 per 10000 people (recommended 15.3 doctors per 10000 people). The objectives of this study are to estimate the prevalence of migration intention of final year medical student and to describe the profile of student who wants to migrate.

Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out between 01 January and 31 January 2021. We included Moroccan final year medical students who did their entire medical school curriculum in FMPC. Electronic Self administered questionnaire was used though Google form. The data were described through mean, standard deviation, median, quartiles, frequency and percentage. The khi2 test was used to test the association between migration intention and social-economic variables. The data was processed using R 3.6.3.

Findings
We included 251 final year students. The 70.1% of final year students had intention to leave the country, of which 63.6% were female. The students were attracted by foreign countries because better training (97.6%), better working conditions (99%) and quality of life (97.2%). The students intended to leave the country because they were not satisfied about formation (95.2%) and salary (97%) also the denigrating of doctor in media (83.6%). Germany was the favorite destination (34%). We did not find any significant association between the migration intention and socioeconomic profile of students.

Conclusions
The health policymakers should improve working conditions, training quality and salary of health workers to reduce medical student migration.

Key messages
The migration intention of final medical students is one of the keys indicators about the future of country healthcare system. Reducing the medical students migration is crucial to build and maintain a strong healthcare system.
Health professionals' perspectives on child protection capacities, training and need for action
Authors: Maier A , Fegert JM , Hoffmann U 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Child maltreatment is because of its prevalence and consequences one of the main reasons for global health inequalities and a major public health problem. The medical field offers many opportunities to support affected children. However, there is often very limited awareness concerning child protection beyond a few engaged professionals. The present work aims to survey the state of knowledge and capacities in view of child protection in the medical field and explores health professionals' perspectives on a potential need for action.

Methods
From 06/2016 until 02/2021 3,360 health professionals were interviewed. Using quantitative and qualitative items the questionnaire gathered demographic and professional background information as well as assessments regarding the awareness of child protection, capacities in child protection among health professionals and training offers in medicine.

Results
The analysis indicated that the topic child protection in medicine is not as present as the high prevalence demands it. The majority (94.0%; n = 3,159) of the probands stated that they need more knowledge and capacities regarding child protection in medicine. More than half of the probands assessed the importance of the issue child protection as low among health professionals. The reasons cited included child protection as being an uncomfortable topic, unwillingness among managers, and a lack of training on the topic.

Conclusions
It turned out that there is too little awareness and importance regarding child protection in the medical field. Hence, it is difficult to ensure an adequate care for those affected. Child protection topics should be made mandatory in the training curricula of all health professionals as well as quality standards for prevention and intervention should be implemented in medical institutions.

Key messages
Too little attention is paid to child protection in the medical field. More training in child protection and quality standards must be established in the medical field.
Ethnic minority women’s interactions with antenatal care providers in Europe
Authors: Sharma E , Puthussery S , Tseng PC , Li L , Harden A , Griffiths M , Bamfo J 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Ethnic minority women are at greater risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. Antenatal care reduces risks of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes and supports a positive transition to motherhood. Important components of quality antenatal care are interactions between women and care providers which are supportive and empowering.

Methods
We conducted a systematic review to identify and synthesise qualitative evidence on ethnic minority women's experiences of accessing antenatal care in European countries. Following a comprehensive search of 8 databases and two-step screening process, we included 27 studies from various European countries. Study findings were coded and synthesised using a ‘best-fit' framework approach.

Findings
Overall women expressed satisfaction with their antenatal care, frequently framed in relation to experiences of maternity care in countries of origin. Women highly valued interactions with antenatal care providers which were supportive and trust-inducing, and when there was continuity of carer to facilitate this. However, studies frequently showed a dichotomy between reported satisfaction with antenatal care and experiences of interactions with care providers which could be discriminatory, stigmatising and disempowering. Some women blamed themselves for negative interactions. Language barriers were frequently identified by women as a factor which hindered their communication with antenatal care providers and the subsequent quality of care received, when suitable interpreters were not available. Negative interactions with antenatal care providers could result in a withdrawal from ongoing antenatal care for some women.

Conclusions
This review highlights the importance of quality interactions between ethnic minority women and antenatal care providers. Policy implications: Antenatal care should be provided in such a way as to facilitate trust, support and effective communication between women and care providers.

Key messages
Positive interactions with care providers form an important element of quality antenatal care for ethnic minority women in Europe. Trust, support and the provision of suitable interpreters, where needed, contribute to positive interactions with antenatal care providers for ethnic minority women in Europe.
This study aimed to explore women’s experiences of infant feeding in Ireland
Authors: Murphy R , Rohde D , Foley C , O'Carroll T , Flynn R 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
While breastfeeding may be among the most effective ways to ensure child health and survival, breastfeeding rates in Ireland are consistently low. This study aimed to explore women's experiences of infant feeding in Ireland.

Methods
Thematic analysis of feeding-related free-text comments from the National Maternity Experience Survey 2020 was undertaken. The survey collected data on the experiences of women who were 16 years or older and gave birth in one of Ireland's 19 maternity hospitals or units or had a home birth.

Results
3,204 women participated in the survey (50% response rate). In the first few days after birth, 41.9% of women breastfed exclusively, 29.0% used formula and breast milk, and 29.1% bottle fed only. 824 comments related to feeding were received. A number of themes were identified, including support and encouragement from healthcare professionals, information and education regarding feeding, and pressure and respect for personal preferences. Women highlighted that while breastfeeding was encouraged in antenatal care, this was not always the case in the postnatal ward, where formula was readily available, with an apparent lack of resources for breastfeeding women. Some women described feeling pressured to use a feeding method that was not their first preference, with some feeling pushed to breastfeed when this may not have been their wish, while women who wished to breastfeed felt pressured to supplement with formula. Staffing shortages on postnatal wards, a lack of lactation consultants and contradictory advice from healthcare professionals exacerbated difficulties with both feeding methods.

Conclusions
Some women experience a lack of practical support with infant feeding, regardless of feeding method, and clear and concise information on feeding practices is needed. The addition of lactation consultants, home supports and further education and training could benefit mothers on their breastfeeding journey.

Key messages
Barriers to breastfeeding included a lack of support from healthcare professionals and conflicting information. It is important to support women regardless of their chosen feeding method.
Access to medicines for children
Authors: Vardanyan L , Kazaryan I , Sevikyan A 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Access to medicines for children remains a serious public health problem worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a Model List of Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc). However, many essential medicines are still not covered by National EMLc and not available in some countries. The objective of this work was to examine the current situation with access to essential medicines for children in Armenia and identify changes if compare with the situation in 2013.

Methods
The Armenian EMLc (AEMLc) of 2013 and 2018, the Lists of medicines authorized in Armenia (for 2013 and the current data), pricelists of main wholesalers and national clinical guidelines for children were analyzed.

Results
81.2% of all the active ingredients from WHO EMLc were included in the AEML, 61.5% were authorized and only 56.1% were available on the pharmaceutical market. In 2013, 74.1% of all the active ingredients from WHO EMLc were included in the AEML, 62.0% were authorized and only 56.1% were available on the pharmaceutical market. The results of comparing the new data with those received in 2013 showed that the percentage of essential medicines for children recommended by WHO, which were covered by AEML, has increased; however the percentage of those which are authorized in the country stayed almost unchanged. The percentage of medicines from WHO EMLc (with taking into account pharmaceutical form and dose recommended by WHO), which were included in the current AEML was 57.7%; and authorized in the country - 68.5%.

Conclusions
Essential medicines for children recommended by WHO, are covered by a medicines supply system for children in Armenia, yet not in full. Political will is important. Development and approval of Armenian EMLc can be considered to be the first step in improving access to medicines for children. Draft of Armenian EMLc is developed and will be submitted to the Ministry of Health together with appropriate recommendations.

Key messages
Access to essential medicines for children remains a serious problem in Armenia. There is an urgent need in improving the situation, and introducing a National EMLc would be an important strategy aimed to increase supply of essential medicines for children.
Parental supervision and sexual behaviour of adolescents in Brazil
Authors: Sousa M , Reis G , Felisbino-Mendes M 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Background
Sexual risk behaviors make adolescents more vulnerable to the main diseases, affecting their sexual health. The adoption of such behaviors may be related to the modes of supervision performed by parents, which is a factor that could minimize the adoption of such risky behaviors.

Objective
To characterize parental supervision of Brazilian adolescents and estimate the prevalence of sexual risk behaviors in relation to the supervision received.

Methods
Cross-sectional study that analyzed data from 102,072 Brazilian adolescents who self-answered the National School Health Survey in 2015. We estimated the prevalence of parental supervision with their respective 95% confidence intervals, considering five indicators of parental supervision individually, and their simultaneity according to sex and sociodemographic characteristics. We also estimated the prevalence of sexual behaviours of adolescents: sex initiation, condom use at last intercourse, contraceptive use, mean age at first intercourse and number of partners, in relation to the supervision received.

Results
One in seven Brazilian adolescents presented intense parental supervision, with the highest proportion among males (52.0%; 95%CI 50.6-53.4). White adolescents of both sex (39.7%; 95%CI 38.8-40.6), who do not work (39.1%; 95%CI 38.4-39.8), living with both parents (42.3%; 95%CI 41.4-43.1) and residing in the Midwest and South (39.7%; 95%CI 38.5-41.0) regions, showed greater parental supervision in relation to the others, also presenting lower sexual initiation and greater condom use. Moreover, the greater the simultaneity of the supervision indicators, the greater the prevalence of consistent condom use, use of contraceptive methods and lower average number of partners.

Conclusions
We observed different patterns of parental supervision between boys and girls and according to sociodemographic characteristics. Moreover, the greater the supervision, the better the adolescents' sexual behaviors.

Key messages
The results obtained point to the fundamental role of the family in providing adolescents with conditions that encourage healthy and risk-free sexual behavior, through supervision. The results obtained reveal gender inequalities in relation to the supervision of girls and boys.