bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health literacy and individuals’ perception regarding Heart Failure management: patient perspective
Authors: Pedro A R , Raposo B , Brandão D , Martinho H , Almeida M , Pardal M , Bernardo F , Cunha A S 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Heart failure (HF) is a multidimensional disease that has a significant impact on the quality of life of people with this condition and the person’s level of health literacy is a key element in disease management. Therefore, this analysis aims to assess the correlation between the level of health literacy of people with HF and their level of concern about managing the disease, their perception about quality of life, and access to healthcare.

Methods
Cross-sectional study conducted through a survey among adults with HF, residents, and healthcare consumers in Portugal. The survey comprised 6 questions on health literacy (HLS-EU-Q6); 9 dimensions of concerns in HF management (4-level scale ranging from “not concerned” to “very concerned”); quality of life and access to healthcare perceptions (5-level scale ranging from “very bad” to “very good”). Concerns global score was calculated based on 9 dimensions of concerns about HF management. The statistical analysis included Spearman’s and Pearson’s correlations.

Results
A total of 428 responses were analysed. Respondents had a mean age of 70 years, 52.1% were men and 67.9% have secondary education. 47.0% of respondents perceived their access to healthcare as “good”, 63.3 % perceived their quality of life as “reasonable” and 61% have low levels of health literacy. Individuals with a higher health literacy level tended to have lower levels of concerns regarding HF management (r=-0.133; p = 0.006); individuals with a higher level of health literacy tended to have a better perception of their access to healthcare (ρ = 0.145; p = 0.003) and quality of life (ρ = 0.220; p &lt; 0.001).

Conclusions
The findings reinforce that overcoming health literacy obstacles must continue to be a focus of healthcare systems and institutions to enhance healthcare access, quality of life, and chronic disease management. These efforts may result in better health outcomes, promote health equity and general well-being in this population.

Key messages
• Individuals with Heart Failure with higher levels of health literacy report less concerns about the management of their condition.
• Individuals with Heart Failure and lower levels of health literacy have a worst perception of their access to healthcare and quality of life. Health literacy promotion must continue to be a priority.
Training of women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children
Authors: Castro Ramírez C , Ruiz González L , Sierra Delgadillo V , Acosta Fajardo L , Córdoba Pulido S , Gutiérrez Gómez D , Romero Correa J , Guzmán Gutiérrez C , Aburto-Corona J 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
It has been evidenced that gamification has scope in the change of people behavior and in the acquisition of knowledge, therefore this methodology contributes to the promotion of health and adapts to the needs of children from the language of play, which increases their motivation in health literacy processes, so it is necessary to encourage the acquisition of new methodologies for community mothers and women caregivers, who are configured as promoters of healthy habits with their children.

Objectives
To train 150 women in the methodology of Gamification for the promotion of healthy habits in children; for which 20 sessions were developed addressing the following modules: a) Empowerment of women b) Gamification methodology c) Healthy habits and lifestyles d) Healthy eating e) Physical activity.

Results
The training of women evidenced a) the empowerment and recognition as health promoters for their life and that of their community b) the identification of the methodology of gamification and its application in processes of promotion of healthy habits c) a high adherence in the participation and learning through gamification methodology, training 150 women through sessions mediated by Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), Learning and Knowledge Technologies (TACs) and Technologies of Empowerment and Participation (TEP) enabling the participation of women from urban and rural territories, which accounts for an inclusive process and democratization of health knowledge, impacting both women and their families, communities and children under their care, an average of 5 members per woman, benefiting 750 people in health promotion actions.

Conclusions
150 women were certified, who from the application of the gamification methodology promote healthy habits in children, in their families and their communities, starting from the recognition of the experience of these in themselves to be health promoters in their territories.

Key messages
• Training women in gamification methodologies to promote healthy habits in children strengthens the health system by empowering them in their role as health literacy teachers in their territories.
• ICT, TAC and TEP enable access to health education from an inclusive process that democratizes knowledge so that communities are active agents in health promotion activities.
Can ChatGPT affect health literacy?
Authors: Marasovic Šušnjara I , Ćulav Šolto M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
ChatGPT is a large language model based on artificial intelligence, which nowadays finds application in various fields, including medicine.

Objectives
To investigate the usefulness of ChatGPT related to health literacy and to highlight its potential limitations.

Methods
We searched PubMed/MEDLINE for published research and articles that reviewed ChatGPT in the context of health literacy, written in English over the past five years with free full text access. All original articles were screened.

Results
A total of 53 publications were found. Twenty-five publications met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Most of the works presented a positive opinion towards the use of ChatGPT. The authors of six articles believe that ChatGPT generates more readable papers, while four of them believe the opposite. In four articles authors found out possibility to simplify text. The negative sides relate to the possibly insufficient education of users, the accuracy of the information, potential bias, dependence on the outdated data, and the ethical problem of the real authors not being cited, and therefore not recognized for their work.

Conclusions
According to the conducted research, ChatGPT represents an opportunity to improve health literacy by generating accessible and comprehensible information about health. It has also been shown to improve the readability and accessibility of public education materials on selected health topics. Furthermore, while AI models like ChatGPT can serve as a reliable source of health information, they should be used as an addition to professional medical consultation, and not as a standalone advice service.

Key messages
• ChatGPT represents an opportunity to improve health literacy.
• AI models like ChatGPT can serve as a reliable source of health information, but they should be used as an addition to professional medical consultation, and not as a standalone advice service.
Mental health literacy in Austria - results of the first representative population survey
Authors: Griebler R , Schuetze D , Vana I 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Mental health has been a pressing public health issue long before COVID-19 and is even more so now. In this context, strengthening mental health literacy (MHL) is seen as a key lever for improving the mental health of the population. qAs there are no nationwide data available, the aim of our study was to collect data on MHL in Austria.

Methods
Data on population MHL were collected in 2023 as part of the second wave of the ‘Health Promotion Panel’, a representative survey of the Austrian resident population aged 16 and over. Data were collected online and by mail from approximately 1,000 individuals. As part of the M-POHL Health Literacy Survey 2024-2026, we developed and tested a new survey instrument to measure MHL. The MHL instrument comprises 26 MHL tasks distributed across four domains (mental well-being, mental stress, mental health problems, mental illness). The respondents were asked to rate the tasks according to their perceived ease and difficulty. Associations with sociodemographic factors and mental well-being were examined using bivariate and multivariate methods.

Results
In all four domains of MHL, respondents rated tasks related to finding and understanding information and services as easier. Tasks related to judging and applying information and services were rated as more difficult. The results indicate that MHL differs according to age and educational level. Across all tasks and domains of MHL, people aged 60+ and those with lower education exhibited greater difficulties with the MHL tasks. While people aged 60+ had the greatest difficulty in judging information and services, people with lower education had greater difficulty in almost all domains.

Conclusions
This study was the first representative study on MHL and showed major deficits in MHL among the Austrian population, also in prevention and health promotion. Targeted interventions are urgently needed to strengthen MHL in Austria, targeting the most vulnerable population groups.

Key messages
• A large proportion of the Austrian population has difficulty dealing with information and services to promote, maintain and restore mental health.
• The difficulties also affect the areas of prevention and health promotion that are crucial for coping with mental stress and enhancing well-being in everyday life.
Impact of digital health literacy on public health: an umbrella review
Authors: Corvo E , Di Carlo M , De Caro W 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Digital health literacy (DHL) is increasingly important for public health initiatives in the digital era. However, its impact on public health outcomes remains unclear. This umbrella review synthesizes evidence on relationships between DHL and public health.

Methods
Electronic databases were searched from 2010 to January 2024 for reviews evaluating associations between DHL and public health outcomes. Two independent reviewers screened records and extracted data. Results were narratively synthesized and screened respect quality using Amstrar 2 check list.

Results
12 reviews met the inclusion criteria. Higher population DHL was consistently linked to positive health behaviors like preventive screening uptake, medical adherence, chronic disease management, and vaccination. However, lower DHL correlated with health disparities and exacerbated risk of mis/disinformation. DHL interventions improved eHealth skills and health status.

Conclusions
Digital Health Ltieracy shapes engagement with digital public health tools and programs. Integrating DHL assessments into planning can help identify at-risk groups and optimize interventions. Developing population DHL through education represents an avenue to advance health equity and resilience against digital health threats. However, more evidence and more digital maturity of tools appear to be necessary.

Key messages
• Digital Health Literacy as milestone of next health generation.
• Health outcomes are clearly linked to digital and digital health literacy.
Enhancing literacy among the elderly on sexually transmitted infections: an educational intervention
Authors: Lima D , Cunha C , Magalhães A , Barreira V , Teixeira R , Mendes M , Vasconcelos R 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Issue
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) pose significant public health concerns across different settings and countries, especially in elderly populations, in which recent increases have been noted. This project aimed to target STIs literacy among the elderly, addressing a crucial gap in public health education.

Description of the problem
This project focused on improving STIs literacy among elderly residents in a municipality in Northern Portugal. Using innovative methods such as tailored materials and interactive sessions, the intervention aimed to evaluate their effectiveness through pre-, post-, and one-month follow-up STD-KQ questionnaire assessments (composite score of total correct calculated as average, ranged from 0 to 27). Statistical analysis used SPSS IBM for Mac OS® v29. Descriptive statistics: mean ± standard deviation for continuous, proportions (%) for categorical variables. Analysis included only individuals with complete data. ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc tested intervention impact on STD-KQ scores.

Results
Fifty-one individuals participated in this study, with an average age of 70,89 ± 5,10 years old, and 64,7% female. The average STD-KQ score increased by 151.54% immediately after, 11.39 ± 5.66 (p &lt; 0,01), and by 122.54% after one month, 10.08 ± 5.35 (p &lt; 0,01), compared to pre-intervention, 4.53 ± 3.96 (p &lt; 0.01). The score at one month follow-up remained similar to post-intervention (p = 0.39), presenting a significant improvement in STIs knowledge.

Lessons
This pioneering project, to the best of our knowledge the first of its kind, demonstrates the effectiveness of tailored educational interventions in improving STIs literacy among the elderly, with sustained effects after one month. This innovative approach can be adapted and scaled up for broader use in different settings and countries.

Key messages
• Tailored educational interventions can be a powerful public health strategy to effectively enhance long-term STI literacy among elderly populations.
• Assessing knowledge about STIs can be a crucial initial step for physicians to provide or refer for comprehensive education on safe sexual practices in this age group.
The need for health-promoting school attendance efforts in a Norwegian context
Authors: Horverak M O , Langeland G M , Hellang Ø , Helmersen M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Issue/problem
There has been an increase in mental health issues among young people in Norway in recent years, as in other European countries. This seems to result in more school anxiety and school absence across different school contexts. To meet this challenge, health promotion theory has been applied to develop practices facilitating mastering and empowerment in school.

Description of the problem
The objective of the project has been to develop health promoting principles and practices that support students to thrive and learn in school. Six primary schools, two lower secondary schools, one upper secondary school and five adult learning centres have participated in workshops and discussions for a period of a year. The questions that this project aims to answer are: 1) How can teachers facilitate health promotion in school? 2) How can health promoting practices support school attendance?

Results
The following principles for health promotion in schools were developed: 1) acknowledging by seeing the whole person, 2) trusting each individual, 3) respecting by creating tolerance for differences, 4) facilitating mastery and achievement, 5) facilitating participation by letting students develop ownership to solutions, 6) creating safety through clear and predictable frameworks, 7) facilitating motivation through engagement, 8) building relations by meeting students where they are, 9) promoting significant values.

Lessons
Based on the operationalisation of health promotion in this project, it is recommended that school employees promote and facilitate acknowledgement, trust, respect, mastery, participation, safety, motivation, relations, and values. The health promoting principles developed may easily be transferred to other educational contexts with similar challenges.

Key messages
• It is important to create an acknowledging and respectful learning environment to facilitate health promotion in schools.
• To support school attendance, the environment needs to be supportive of student participation and empowerment.
JOBS Program Germany for health promotion among the unemployed
Authors: Hollederer A 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Aim
The unemployed suffer from poorer health than the employed, especially in terms of mental health. At the same time, health promotion reaches unemployed less than employed. The “JOBS Program” is an intervention for the unemployed to promote health. It has shown positive effects in the USA and Finland. The aim of this confirmatory study (Hollederer & Jahn, 2023; Jahn & Hollederer, 2024) was to investigate whether the JOBS Program produces similar effects in Germany.

Methods
A multicenter randomized controlled trial was applied to compare an intervention group (IVG) with a waiting control group (WCG) before (T0; n = 94), shortly after (T1; n = 65) the intervention and about 6 months after the intervention (T2; n = 43). Fourteen JOBS Program trainings have been conducted. Additionally, JOBS Program trainers were interviewed via voluntary computer-assisted web interviews (resulting in 28 interviews).

Results
JOBS Program Germany was beneficial. Following changes in the primary outcomes were identified from T0 to T1: Compared to the WCG, a multivariate regression estimated that the IVG had (1) a 0.34 scale point higher level of self-rated general health (p = 0.025; scale range: 1-5 points), (2) a 14.52 scale point higher level of mental well-being (p = 0.004), and (3) a 2.74 scale point higher level of life satisfaction (p = 0.049). About 6 months after the training had been conducted (T2), participants in the JOBS training showed better general health status (0.41-point; p = 0.016) compared to the WCG. Furthermore, 78.5% of the JOBS Program trainers were rather or very satisfied with the theoretical contents and 85.7% with the practical implementation. A central obstacle to the implementation was the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions
This study provides evidence for the effectiveness of the JOBS Program with respect to the above outcomes, and for older and long-term unemployed, suggesting the benefit of regular implementation for different groups of unemployed in Germany.

Key messages
• The results of the confirmatory study show positive effects of the JOBS Program on the general health status and unemployment-related mental burden among unemployed people in Germany.
• The introduction of the JOBS Program as a nationwide intervention in Germany could be an intervention approach for the unemployed to achieve better health.
Promotion included in prevention (PIP)
Authors: Magnavita N , Meraglia I , Viti G 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Issue/problem
Every year in Europe more than 20 million visits are carried out on workers. The opportunity to integrate health promotion into prevention is now under the attention of large companies, according to the American model known as Total Worker Health©.

Description of the problem
The main critical points of this strategy are the correct balance between promotion and prevention efforts and the extension of the projects to small companies. Furthermore, coordination is necessary between all the figures who promote health, particularly in the national health service.

Results
Occupational risk prevention activities, mandatory in all European countries, have been integrated with health promotion campaigns, addressing health topics chosen in a participatory way.
The costs of designing the campaign, information material for employees and data processing are borne by the university, which covers the costs with research funds. No costs are borne by workers or companies. During their medical check-up in the workplace, workers are invited to fill in a questionnaire regarding the project topic, its outcome, and some related factors. Workers receive advice on how to improve their lifestyles and are referred to the National Health Service for any necessary tests or treatments. In the last 15 years, as many annual campaigns have been conducted. Projects have dealt with: Eating behavior disorders; Post-COVID syndrome; Syncope and presyncope; Headache; Musculoskeletal disorders; Work engagement; Sleep health promotion; Aging; Violence at work; Work organization; Indoor air quality; Mediterranean Diet; Hand skin disorders; Teleworking; Work Ability. More than 30,000 workers from 38 companies participated.

Lessons
The participatory character of the projects, their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the integration between occupational medicine and basic medicine demonstrate that PIP projects are economical, sustainable, and effective.

Key messages
• Health promotion can be integrated into the prevention of occupational risks, without additional costs.
• The creation of a network of occupational physicians who are involved in PIP projects respects corporate and professional independence and improves the work culture, health, and safety of workers.
The relationship between sleep quality and emotional eating during the pandemic in Croatian adults
Authors: Miskulin I , Candrlic S , Dumic J , Fotez I , Puz Britvic P , Dumic L , Candrlic M , Kovacevic J , Kotromanovic Simic I , Miskulin M 
Published: October 2024

Abstract

Background
Social isolation during pandemics has adverse effects on sleep quality which in connection with COVID-19 distress facilitates the development of emotional eating patterns in various populations. This study aimed to evaluate the interconnection between sleep quality and emotional eating in the Croatian adult population during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods
This cross-sectional questionnaire study was conducted from February to June 2021 period. A validated, anonymous questionnaire that contained questions regarding demographic data, data on eating habits, and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), was self-administered to a convenient sample of Croatian adults from central and northwestern Croatia.

Results
The study sample included 939 subjects with, a median age of 42 years (interquartile range 35-48), 35.4% males, and 64.6% females. At the PSQI 22.6% of subjects presented sleep disturbances. Sleep disturbances were more frequent among females (p &lt; 0.001), and inhabitants of the Croatian capital Zagreb (p = 0.001). Subjects with sleep disturbances detected by PSQI during pandemics consumed a larger amount of food than usual (p &lt; 0.001), consumed snacks more frequently (p &lt; 0.001), and cooked more in their households (p = 0.006).

Conclusions
Poor sleep quality caused by the COVID-19 pandemic led to emotional eating patterns in the Croatian adult population. Health promotion programs directed toward healthy lifestyle choices need to be implemented to successfully tackle observed poor health indicators in the studied population.

Key messages
• Following the COVID-19 pandemic the obvious deterioration of sleep quality and eating habits is seen in the Croatian general population.
• Comprehensive health promotion programs directed toward healthy lifestyle choices adoption are needed.