bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social Cost Benefit Analysis – a powerful tool for decision making
Authors: De Wit A , Over E 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Health Impact Assessment provides policy makers with important information about health effects of programs, policies, plans or projects (PPPP). However, PPPP may have many more effects, both positive and negative, direct and indirect, intended and unintended, immediate and in the far future. Ex-ante insights in all these effects may help policy makers to optimize decision-making, but also to communicate realistically to all stakeholders about the PPPP. Weighing effects that may be very different in scale and reach different stakeholders in different ways is inevitable. One powerful tool to help decision makers in this task is Social Cost Benefit Analysis (SCBA). SCBA requires to specify and quantify all effects of PPPP over a specified time horizon. It is also necessary to specify a base-case scenario, i.e. how the problem under study would develop without further investments in PPPP. All effects of PPPP need to be quantified in monetary terms, these can be financial, e.g. healthcare costs or costs of productivity losses, or non-financial, for instance by placing a value of €50,000 on a QALY gained or a DALY averted or a value of €3,5 million on a lost life. PPPP with positive net monetary value are considered welfare enhancing, while PPPP with a negative monetary value do not add to welfare in society. In the Netherlands, government asks any bigger PPPP to be quantified with SCBA methodology. Guidance on unit values for non-monetary effects is given. This contribution will elaborate on results of the SCBA method for different alcohol policy measures, such as increase in excise taxes, minimum unit pricing, closure of vending spots and a total marketing ban. SCBA is a powerful tool to inform policy makers and assist in their decision making processes. It is also a labour and data intensive process that should only be used for larger PPPP investments and not for local decision making.
Stakeholder involvement in the development of a serious game for and with healthcare professionals
Authors: de Ruijter D , van de Goor I , Assendelft P , Kremers S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
Increasing pressure on the quality, accessibility and affordability of Dutch health services underlines the need for integrated approaches to healthcare that include lifestyle as preventive measure. Integrated healthcare requires coordinated collaboration between healthcare providers, which is facilitated by the concept of Positive Health as a unifying language. To support primary care providers (PCP) in developing knowledge and skills related to lifestyle as prevention, interdisciplinary collaboration and the concept of Positive Health, we are developing education in the form of a serious game: Game2Connect. Co-creation by active involvement of a consortium of educational institutes, healthcare organisations, a game developer, and PCP as end-users of Game2Connect plays a key role in its development. Data from interviews with PCP (on barriers and facilitators for health-promoting and collaborative behaviours), healthcare recipients (on input for case studies) and consortium meetings were incorporated into an initial version of Game2Connect, which is currently being piloted to assess and improve its utility and usability. Pilot sessions included an observed playthrough, followed by a usability questionnaire and a semi-structured group discussion. So far, 2 pilot sessions were held with consortium members (n = 16), and 3 sessions were held with PCP (n = 22). Learning indicators (e.g. PCP clarifying fellow players’ misconceptions) were observed in all sessions. Usability scores indicate high levels of challenge, content relevance, and positive affect, ranging between 3.3-3.6 on a 4-point scale. Qualitative feedback from group discussions resulted in the development of new case studies to appeal to a broader range of PCP, and the adjustment of a goal-setting exercise as a game component to encourage its use. These results suggest that serious gaming may be a viable and engaging method to educate PCP, especially when developed in active collaboration with stakeholders.
8.F. Scientific session: Promoting Public Health with healthy smart buildings
Authors:   Organised by: EUPHA-URB, -PMH, -ENV,   Chair persons: Jutta Lindert (EUPHA-PMH), Stefano Capolongo (EUPHA-URB)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The Workshop titled “Promoting Public Health with healthy smart buildings” - proposed and developed by the three EUPHA Section: Urban Public Health (URB), Public Mental Health (MEN) and Environmental Health (ENV) - is aimed to foster the dialogue between designers (architects and urban planners), Public Health experts (operators, professionals and epidemiologists), policy/decision makers and buildings’ users, to establish a multidisciplinary approach for understanding together how to create and manage healthy living indoor environments (both housing and complex constructions/public buildings). According to the main Conference topic “Sailing the waves of European public health: exploring a sea of innovation”, the workshop mainly addresses both the “Climate emergency/Environment and health/Urban health” and the “Mental health” EPH24 conference topics. The workshop purpose is to explore the effects of the housing conditions, according to “umbrella” exposure of the quality of the buildings, stressing topics like emissions, qualities, functional features, accessibility, supportive, Indoor Environmental Quality, Indoor Air Quality, and health implications on users’ well-being. In fact, time spent at home and in the indoor environment increased due to the COVID-19 experience, and social-sanitary emergencies are expected to grow due to the urbanization phenomenon. Thus, the role of the physical environment in which we live, study, and work, has become of crucial importance, as the literature has recently highlighted. The workshop program includes inputs which they argue current experiences, emerging practices and scientific outcomes related to the healthy Buildings, coming from four different European countries. From Sustainable Development Goals, in “Healthy air for healthy minds”, to Indoor Environmental Quality implications, in “How to promote health in indoor living and working spaces: quali-quantitative analysis to evaluate the indoor air quality through users’ perception and low-cost sensors”. From experience-based works related to specific functions, in “Leveraging digital platforms to improve Public Health in hospital smart buildings”, to other specific public buildings’ experiences, in “Novi Sad cultural stations as healthy buildings for wellbeing concept”.

Key messages
• explore the relationship between housing conditions, Indoor Environmental Quality, and the implications on users’ well-being, like “umbrella” exposure of the quality of the buildings.
• establish a multidisciplinary approach for understanding together how to create and manage healthy living indoor environments, at private and public scale.
How to promote health in indoor living and working spaces: quali-quantitative analysis to evaluate the indoor air quality through users’ perception and low-cost sensors
Authors: Gola M , Laghezza A , Yu Y , Settimo G , Capolongo S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract
It is well-known that humans spend most of their time in indoor spaces: what it is sometimes underestimated; however, is how much the space in which someone is can affect their abilities, feelings and even their mental and physical health. A team developed a methodology to allow the collection of useful data and giving rise to management strategies for guaranteeing healthy spaces, in terms of Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ). In particular, the methodology is based on a quali-quantitative analysis of Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) supported by a questionnaire on users’ perception and well-being, based on a scoping review, and low-cost sensors for IAQ monitoring air contaminants (carbon dioxide, temperature, relative humidity, volatile organic compounds, etc.). In particular, for the quantitative analysis, the team adopted a method that considers the location of the sensors in different typology of settings with various solar exposures, ventilation systems, human occupancy, type of activity, etc. with the scope of testing the trends in different seasons. As well as the qualitative data collect several information about the users’ perceived comfort and the symptoms (headache, fatigue, etc.) during their stay. The data analysis highlights how the different users’ perceptions affect the conditions of the environmental units, in particular in crowded rooms (4-6 people). Adequate lifestyles, such as door and window-openings, regular air-changes, etc. can highly affect the performances and the productivity, as well as the quality of the spaces. In that sense the use of low-cost sensors with light signals can be helpful as strategy for informing the user of the state of the air and any actions to be implemented. In conclusion, starting from the methodology, the team gives rise to a decalogue of strategies and good habits that permits -through the support of low-cost sensors - to inform the users on how to guarantee healthy living and working spaces.
England RCT of air filtration to prevent respiratory infections (including covid-19) in care homes
Authors: Hay A D , Brierley R C , Turner N , Thorn J , Rees S , Taylor J , Welsh T , Henderson E , Sprackman J , Kipping R 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Context
There is evidence that portable high-efficiency-particulate-air (HEPA) filtration units remove microbial particles from the air, but it is unclear whether this is sufficient to reduce infections in care home residents.

Objectives
To investigate the effectiveness of portable HEPA filtration units for winter respiratory infection episode reduction in care home residents. Study design and analysis: Cluster controlled trial with intention-to-treat analysis. Setting: 90 residential care homes for older adults in England. Population: Residents expected to reside in the care home for ≥1 month. Intervention care homes: Five HEPA filtration units in communal rooms and one HEPA filtration unit in 10 to 16 bedrooms. Control care homes: Usual care. Outcome measures: The primary outcome is the number of symptomatic winter respiratory infection episodes recorded by care home staff. Secondary outcomes: other infection measures; falls /near falls; laboratory confirmed infections; hospitalisations; and staff sickness. Process evaluation to assess intervention acceptability and implementation.

Results
Care homes were randomised between January 2022 and February 2024, 43 to intervention and 47 to usual care. Respectively, in intervention and control group care homes: 43% and 45% provided nursing care; 87% and 87% dementia care; and median (IQR) number of communal rooms were 4 (3-5) in both groups. 1126 residents were consented, of whom 31 (3%) moved away; 151 (13%) died; and 5 stopped participating. Primary outcome data is 98% complete with 175,318 'resident days' symptom data collected. Comparing intervention and control group residents: median (IQR) age was 88 (81-92) and 88 (82-92) years; 33% and 43% were receiving nursing care; 58% and 57% had dementia; frailty scores were 6 (4-7) and 6 (5-7); 94% and 94% received influenza; and 97% and 95% COVID vaccines.

Conclusions
Final analytic results of this world-first RCT will be available for the conference.

Key messages
• This world-first RCT using HEPA filters in care homes will report the evidence of effectiveness of respiratory infection episode reduction in care home residents.
• The trial will inform policy makers about the effectiveness, acceptability and implementation of HEPA filters in care homes.
Learning through playing in public health: a card game’s evaluation
Authors: Martinez J , Cottin M , Valter R , Razafindrakoto H , Vauxion S , Josseran L , Delarocque-Astagneau E , Gautier S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
In medical education and particularly in public health, the shift toward active learning addresses the limitations of traditional lecture-based methods. Game-based learning, such as serious games, showed potential to overcome these limitations. “Accidémie” is a card game designed to improve medical students’ knowledge of home accidents and their competencies in public health through an interactive format. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of “Accidémie”.

Methods
We conducted a quantitative pre-post assessment study among sixth-year medical students of the University of Versailles. Data were collected through a 20-item true/false repeated questionnaire before and after. In addition, the post-intervention questionnaire included questions on students’ satisfaction and an open-ended question. Responses to the questionnaires were converted into scores. The main outcome measured was the change in the scores. The scores before and after the intervention are presented with their mean and standard deviation. They were compared using a paired t-test. Student satisfaction is presented in terms of frequency and includes verbatim responses from the students.

Results
Thirty-eight students participated, with pre-test scores averaging 13.13 (SD = 1.98) and post-test scores averaging 14.89 (SD = 1.94). A paired t-test provided statistical evidence of the difference between the pre- and post-test scores (p &lt; 0.001). Students provided positive feedback: 81.6% of the students were very satisfied with the game; 42.1% considered it extremely useful. They also underlined that ‘Accidémie’ is an enjoyable learning tool, praising its innovative approach.

Conclusions
“Accidémie” improved students’ knowledge of home accidents and their engagement. It supports the use of serious games in medical education complementary to traditional methods. Applying the concept of “Accidémie” across various subjects and among diverse groups of health students offers promising prospects.

Key messages
• ‘Accidémie’ significantly improves students’ knowledge of home accidents, a public health topic.
• “Accidémie” allows medical students to learn while playing, boosting satisfaction and engagement.
Interventions’ transferability assessment to strengthen Vaccination Uptake Among Migrants in Greece
Authors: Papaevgeniou N , Karnaki P , Radaiou V , Schloemer T 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Migrant children in Greece face significantly lower vaccination coverage rates for MMR and HPV compared to their counterparts. To address this disparity, our research focuses on selecting and adapting evidence-based interventions tailored to the specific needs of different migrant communities staying in Greece, guided by the PIET-T framework.

Methods
Using a stakeholder-engaged approach, we involved 26 key stakeholders to select evidence-based interventions relevant to the Greek context. These interventions underwent detailed analysis, considering their effectiveness, cultural appropriateness, and potential for transferability within the PIET-T framework. Key stakeholders provided input on intervention feasibility and country- and context-specific adaptation.

Results
Three interventions were identified as promising for MMR and HPV vaccination uptake: two health promoter interventions and a school-based vaccination one. The health promoter intervention was adapted so to involve health professionals and trusted community members delivering culturally sensitive education and navigation support, addressing barriers such as language and lack of information. The original school-based program implements education sessions and on-site vaccinations, leveraging the trusted environment of schools to reach parents and children. On-site vaccinations were omitted since they were not relevant to the Greek context due to legal barriers.

Conclusions
Our stakeholder-engaged approach, guided by the PIET-T framework, ensures interventions are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of different migrant communities in Greece. By prioritizing cultural sensitivity and community involvement, we aim to enhance MMR and HPV vaccination uptake and improve health outcomes among migrant populations.
The politics of universal health system reform in the context of COVID-19
Authors: Burke S , Parker S , Schulmann K , Bruen C , Mac Conghail L 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Implementing universalism is more a political than a technical project. With this in mind, Ireland devised a ten-year plan through political consensus to deliver universal healthcare - Sláintecare. The COVID-19 pandemic occurred early in its implementation.

Methods
This is qualitative research drawing on international literature on universal health system reform in the context of COVID-19 as well as the politics of health reform. The overall research programme is co-produced with the Irish health system. A timeline and analysis of the reform journey is drawn from documentary analysis of key policy documents, parliamentary reports and key informant interviews.

Results
Despite a policy commitment since 2005, universal healthcare implementation only became government policy in Ireland 2018. While whole system reform and implementation progress has been slow, the COVID-19 health system response boosted aspects of universalism and reform. All COVID-related services during the pandemic were universal, free at the point of delivery, as are most new services introduced since 2021. Despite the political consensus holding through a change government and the pandemic, and significant additional investment in the public health system, there remain many obstacles to reform. These include different stakeholder understanding of implementing universalism in Ireland especially in the context of COVID-19, how best to implement universal healthcare and the politics of delivering reform.

Conclusions
Contrary to other countries’ experience during COVID, Ireland pursued its policy aim of delivering universalism and expanded services provided universally, free at the point of delivery, with a focus on enhanced community care. The universalism applied to COVID-related prevention and care, new women’s health and chronic disease management services. Despite progress, government has yet to legislate for a universal entitlement to care and obstacles to reform implementation remain.
2.X.1. Sleep Health Disparities across the life-course: from research to public health policy
Authors:   Organised by: EUPHA-CHR, Western University (Canada),   Chair persons: Saverio Stranges (EUPHA-CHR), Dayna Johnson (USA)
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Poor sleep health is a recognized common problem across the life cycle, globally. Factors that contribute to this problem include the demands of a “Western” lifestyle (urgency, productivity), economic stressors, social and environmental determinants of health, and global crises including international conflicts, political tensions, and climate change. There is a growing consensus that optimizing sleep health should be a public health priority because poor sleep patterns are a modifiable risk factor for myriad health outcomes, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, cognitive decline, mental illness, and early mortality. In Canada, a nationwide sleep consortium funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) was recently formed with a mandate to generate new knowledge that will inform clinical practice and support public health initiatives to deliver resources where they are most needed. The proposed workshop organized by the Chronic Disease EPH section will start with a general overview of the impact of sleep health disparities across the life-course, from childhood to older age, as well as discuss evidence-based public health approaches to promote sleep hygiene and mitigate the risk of adverse health outcomes, including chronic disease (Saverio Stranges). It will be followed by three presentations to address the root causes of sleep health disparities and their impact on chronic disease (Dayna Johnson); participatory research with families and care providers on infant sleep intervention development (Elizabeth Keys), and strategies to address common sleep disorders among middle-aged and older adults (Tetyana Kendzerska).

Key messages
• Sleep health disparities are a neglected public health issue.
• Optimizing sleep health is both a clinical and public health priority, as sleep patterns represent a modifiable risk factor for a range of adverse health outcomes.
Thermal inequality and heat-related adaptive capacity: A systematic review
Authors: Slesinski S C , Matthies-Wiesler F , Breitner-Busch S , Gussmann G , Bunge C , Schneider A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Extreme heat is an important public health concern. Heat stress exposure and related adaptive capacity are not equally distributed across social groups, generating thermal inequality. We implemented a systematic review to answer the question: In the general population, what is the effect of social disadvantage on exposure to subjective and objective heat stress and adaptive capacity to prevent/reduce exposure to heat stress?

Methods
We searched for peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2005 and 2024. Screening and data extraction were conducted by one reviewer, with a second screening and extracting 10% for comparison. Synthesis included identification and description of specific social groups unequally exposed to heat stress and with lower adaptive capacity as well as a narrative description of the evidence and identification of research gaps.

Results
We identified 114 relevant publications. 53% included evidence on objective heat stress, 19% subjective heat stress, and 58% adaptive capacity. Nearly half came from North America (47%), 24% from Asia, and 17% from Europe. Publishing increased over time, from 0 articles in 2005 to 20 articles in 2023. Most studies considered socioeconomic status (SES) (87%), while fewer focused on race/ethnicity or other social factors. Across global regions, lower-SES populations, immigrants, and racial/ethnic minorities are generally more exposed to heat stress and have lower adaptive capacity, and lower-SES and minority neighborhoods are generally hotter and less green. Most studies of objective heat stress use imprecise measures, such as land surface temperature, which are not representative of experienced temperatures.

Conclusions
This review summarizes the available evidence on inequalities in heat stress exposure and adaptive capacity for the first time and identifies important research gaps related to heat stress measurement and social factors beyond SES.

Key messages
• Heat stress exposure and related adaptive capacity are not equally distributed across social groups, generating thermal inequality.
• Social inequalities must be considered during climate change adaptation planning.