bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reducing loneliness in the community. More Together – a complex intervention in Denmark
Authors: Lasgaard M , Bo A F , Nielsen L A , Swane C E , Qualter P , Christiansen J 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The mounting evidence that loneliness is a determinant of poor health and wellbeing underpins the need for effective interventions and community action. A public health approach to loneliness involving both targeted individual interventions and community-level interventions has been highlighted as a promising avenue. However, there is limited knowledge on how to effectively develop and implement such interventions. ‘More Together (‘Flere i Fællesskaber')’ is a large-scale, complex, multi-component and multi-level intervention for community change that addresses loneliness among young people and older adults in Silkeborg Municipality, Denmark. The intervention is inspired by the Collective Impact framework, it is practice driven and rooted in an extensive cross-sector partnership including institutions, organisations, and companies. The intervention, which is currently underway, is implemented in the course of a four-year period, and the overall effect will be assessed in a large impact evaluation. This presentation outlines (1) the organisation of the cross-sector partnership, (2) the structure of the intervention programme, (3) key components and activities of the programme and, (4) describes the intervention setting and target population. More Together aims to create new ways to develop, implement and evaluate loneliness interventions. Lessons that are directly supported by the project hold the potential to transform our understanding of loneliness interventions and may inform and guide future community-based interventions.

Key messages
• ‘More Together’ aims to reduce loneliness in Silkeborg Municipality, Denmark through a large-scale, multi-component and practice-driven intervention.
• The project has the potential to inform and guide future community-based interventions for loneliness and improve social health in the community.
Workplace health promotion embedded in medical surveillance
Authors: Magnavita N 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The Total Worker Health© strategy is an advantageous and effective way of integrating prevention and health promotion in the workplace. The main critical points are the correct balance between prevention and promotion efforts and the extension of the projects to small companies. For several years now, in Italy, the Occupational Health Unit of the Catholic University proposed a model named Workplace Health Promotion Embedded in Medical Surveillance (WHPEMS). WHPEMS projects, which are also implemented in small companies, focus each year on a new topic that emerges from the needs of workers. During their regular 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. The design of the project, the development of the investigative tools and the operating procedures are carried out by the University. The doctors in charge of the health surveillance of the workers in the various companies can join and receive the results free of charge. The data analysis is conducted by the University. Despite its apparent simplicity, the strategy required many years to develop, refine and validate the promotion methods. In recent years projects have dealt with: Eating behavior disorders; Post-COVID syndrome; Syncope and presyncope; Headache; Musculoskeletal disorders; Work engagement; Sleep health promotion; Aging and ability to work; Violence at work; Work organization; Indoor air quality; Mediterranean Diet. More than 30,000 workers participated and over 1,000 of them were invited to undergo diagnostic tests or treatments. The participatory character of the projects, their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the integration between occupational medicine and basic medicine demonstrate that WHPEMS projects are economical, sustainable, and effective.

Key messages
• Workplace Health Promotion Embedded in Medical Surveillance Projects are economical, sustainable, and effective.
• The creation of a network of occupational physicians who are involved in WHPEMS projects respects corporate and professional independence and improves the work culture, health, and safety of workers.
Culturally-Relevant Physical Activity over the Lifecourse and Association with Chronic Disease
Authors: Sentell T , Mika Thompson M , Rodericks R , Schmid S , Pirkle C , Ching L , Look M , Wu Y Y , Finn J , Phillips M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Culturally-relevant physical activity (PA) such as traditional dance shows significant promise in health promotion. Besides the value of the PA itself, these practices can also include important connections to culture, history, community, family, and the outdoors, promoting health and wellbeing. The primary study goals were to: (1) illuminate trajectories in lifetime participation in four culturally-relevant PA (surfing, outrigger canoe paddling, spearfishing, and hula) and (2) explore factors associated with engagement in these activities over the lifecourse, including gender, race/ethnicity, and chronic disease.

Methods
English-speaking residents in Hawai'i, USA (n = 1066) were recruited from an existing research panel to complete a questionnaire delivered online or by phone. Weighted quasi-Poisson and logistic regression models predicted engagement and self-reported chronic disease, adjusting for race/ethnicity, age, gender, and education. Significance was p&lt;.05.

Results
Respondents were 50% female and 50% male. Over their lifetime, 64% of respondents participated in at least one of the four culturally-relevant PAs. Variation in participation was seen by type of culturally-relevant PA and over the lifespan. Engagement was highest during earlier periods of life and tended to decrease over age, but trends varied notably by race/ethnicity, gender, generation, and by the four PA types. For chronic disease, there was a general pattern of lifetime engagement in the four activities being related to lower likelihood of hypertension (with models for paddling and surfing showing significance). Lifetime engagement in surfing was significantly related to lower likelihood of diabetes.

Conclusions
Engagement in culturally-relevant PA was associated with lower likelihood for chronic disease. Trends varied notably by factors relevant for health promotion, planning, and policy to achieve health equity.

Key messages
• Engagement in culturally-relevant PA over the lifespan was associated with lower likelihood of chronic disease. Culturally relevant PA, including traditional dance, is relevant in Europe and beyond.
• Culturally-relevant PA can engage culture, history, community, family, and the outdoors supporting holistic health and wellbeing. This is an important area of future research and health promotion.
The use of social marketing approach in adolescent sexual health promotion
Authors: Putkonen H , Kallio H , Kylmä J , Rissanen T , Sormunen M 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
To tackle adolescent sexual health challenges, sexual health promotion must be versatile and originate from adolescents’ needs. Social marketing, an audience-centered approach that aims at changing people's behavior, can be used in adolescent sexual health promotion. This scoping review researched the content and delivery methods of social marketing interventions in adolescent sexual health. To our knowledge, these objects have not been previously reviewed.

Methods
Six databases were searched to capture the peer-reviewed quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods articles without time restrictions that provided evidence of sexual health-related social marketing interventions targeting adolescents aged 11-25. An inductive-deductive content analysis was performed. Nineteen studies were included in the data.

Results
The content of interventions included sexual risks, risk prevention, morals of sexual relationships, and changes in the body. Risks and risk prevention dominated the data, and they focused on sexually transmitted diseases, unwanted pregnancies, and sexual violence. Morals of sexual relationships included values such as fidelity toward one's partner, whereas changes in the body were observed from a reproductive perspective. Delivery of interventions occurred through various media channels, events, and activities.

Conclusions
The interventions were mostly preventive and concentrated on the risks, whereas the delivery methods were diverse and creative, combining modern and already well-established channels. Sexuality should be seen comprehensively, and interventions should respond to the full range of adolescents’ needs in a way that also positive aspects, such as love and relationships, respect, and equality are included.

Key messages
• The study improves public understanding of the phenomena by summarizing the existing knowledge.
• The results are beneficial in planning social marketing interventions and other sexual health programs.
Cervical cancer screening behavior of reproductive women in Rajavithi Hospital
Authors: Treesinchai S , Manmee C 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Cervical cancer is one of a public health problem and is the fourth most commonly occurring cancer in women worldwide. Cells change in women's cervix was a cause of Cervical cancer. In early stage, no signs or symptoms but it can be detected with pelvic examination for decrease severity of disease. This study aimed to determine cervical cancer screening and factors associated with cervical cancer screening in reproductive women.

Materials and Methods
This cross-sectional study was performed among 620 healthcare worker women in Rajavithi Hospital, Bangkok Thailand. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with screening.

Results
Of the 598 (96.5%) questionnaires were returned; the mean age was 35.79±11.36 years, Body Mass Index (BMI) was 22.99±4.74 kg/m2, and most were single 64.5%. Most of participants were multidisciplinary personnel 45.0%. Cervical cancer knowledge was at high level (74.4%) while the attitude regarding cervical cancer screening was at a moderate level. The prevalence of cervical cancer screening was 37.5%; the three most reasons for not being screened was the absence of symptoms was (83.2%), followed by single status (24.6%) and no time for screening (19.0%). Factors associated with the screening included age (aOR=1.11, 95%CI 1.08-1.14, p &lt; 0.001), marital status (aOR=2.74, 95%CI 1.55-4.86, p = 0.001), contraception use (aOR=4.27, 95%CI 2.42-7.53, p &lt; 0.001), gynaecological disease history (aOR=2.93, 95%CI 1.58-5.62, p = 0.001), and sexual relation (aOR=1.83, 95%CI 1.01-3.32, p = 0.048).

Conclusions
The prevalence of cervical cancer screening was low. Demographic and gynaecological factors were involved. The organization should have a yearly campaign to increase cervical cancer screening behavior to prevent severity of the disease.

Key messages
• Cervical cancer is one of a public health problem in women worldwide, therefore cervical cancer screening is one of a significant prevention method to decrease severity of disease.
• Most healthcare workers have a good knowledge about severity of cervical cancer, while the prevalence of screening was low.
Risk of depression and distress in people aged 70+ in a rural area in Germany
Authors: Arndt S , Sisenop F , Lindert J 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Mental health of people living in rural areas is largely unknown. We aim to evaluate mental health of individuals aged 70+ in a German rural region.

Methods
We conducted a cross-sectional study (2018-2019). Participants were a representative sample living in a rural area. Main outcomes for this study were depression and general health (assessed with the PHQ-9 and the GHQ-28, respectively). As independent variables we assessed socio-demographics and access to care.

Results
Of the 460 participants, 140 (30.4%) were 70+ years old and 320 were between 18-69 (69.6%). The older age group was predominantly male (63.6%) and did not have university degrees (71.9%). 2.2% were employed. 2.1% reported depression symptoms (younger groups: 7.8%, p = 0.019) and 11.0% distress symptoms (younger groups: 28.0%, p &lt; 0.001). Depression and distress were inversely associated with financial worries (p &lt; 0.001). Higher education status was positively associated with depression (p = 0.051). Discussion: Older age was associated with less depression and distress. Results suggest that financial worries in old age contribute significantly to mental health conditions in old age. Interventions to reduce financial stress in old age are needed. Furthermore, longitudinal research is needed to evaluate how depression risk develops in rural areas in different groups.
Gender-specific personal values and life priorities: Insights from the Bedouin minority in Israel
Authors: Shibli H , Aizik I , Or Sharvit Z , Shapira S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Introduction
Personal values play a crucial role in shaping health behaviors and decision-making. The study aimed to explore the values and priorities of the Bedouin minority in Israel using the Portrait Values Questionnaire (PVQ-21). While the PVQ-21 is widely used, few studies have examined its use among minority populations in Israel.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 331 Bedouin participants in Southern Israel. Participants completed the PVQ-21 questionnaire, which measures four key values related to self-transcendence (universalism and benevolence), self-enhancement (achievement and power), openness to change (self-direction, stimulation and hedonism), and conservation (security, conformity and tradition).

Results
The overall PVQ-21 score was significantly higher (p &lt; 0.001) among Bedouin males (6.40±0.67) than females (5.92±0.89). Gender differences were significantly higher among men in self-transcendence (7.02±0.9 vs. 6.02± 1.21, respectively) and conservation (7.04±0.73 vs. 6.11±1.07, respectively), but not in self-enhancement and openness to change. Specifically, significant differences (p &lt; 0.05) in conservation values were observed between residents of recognized towns and residents of newly recognized/unrecognized villages (6.66±1.07 vs. 6.42±0.95, respectively). Religiosity, marital status, and education were significantly associated with self-transcendence and conservation values.

Conclusions
This study provides valuable insights into the personal values and priorities of the Bedouin minority in Israel. The results suggest that Bedouin women prioritize values related to benevolence and conservation, which may reflect the traditional gender roles and expectations within Bedouin society. Recognizing the cultural context and unique value orientations within minority populations is essential for developing effective and inclusive health promotion strategies that can contribute to reducing health disparities and improving overall well-being.

Key messages
• Gender differences in personal values among Bedouin minority in Israel highlight the importance of understanding cultural context.
• Recognizing the value priorities of minority populations is crucial for developing effective and inclusive health promotion strategies that address health disparities.
Community Perspectives to Inform Substance Use Prevention Practice
Authors: Morse A , McGuigan K , Brady A , Hargey C , Higgins K 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Problem
The Market is a highly cohesive working-class community in South Belfast. Queen's Communities and Place (QCAP) has partnered with the Market as an anchor community to co-develop research to generate actionable data to alleviate public health challenges. Both the Market Development Association (MDA) and QCAP's research findings identified substance use (SU) as a key issue and delivered Northern Ireland's first peer naloxone training in December 2022. However, a long-term strategy aligned with residents’ vision is necessary.

Methods
The MDA and QCAP co-hosted an event in February 2023 asking attendees 4 questions to guide small group discussion: •What is the current situation with SU in the Market? •Why do these problems exist? •What are service gaps? •What should the MDA and QCAP do to help?
QCAP staff conducted a qualitative analysis of the discussion notes and presented the results to the MDA to guide intervention development.

Results
Residents had nuanced knowledge of SU in the area and feelings of both powerlessness against larger forces and optimism for change if given the necessary resources. The analysis revealed 3 key themes: the breadth of the issue in the community; a lack of supportive services; and a need for demographically tailored SU education.

Lessons
QCAP and the MDA have a better understanding of area's concerns about SU and hopes for addressing it. Short and long-term actions are planned: •Event series for parents covering drugs circulating, signs of SU, and overdose intervention steps. •Materials added to the existing “community indicators dashboard” publicised through QR codes posted at key locations. •Programming for youth co-developed with the area's new youth forum. •Seeking funding for a “health navigator” based in the community to connect residents with services they need. •Building connections with local GPs using a local champion model to reduce provider burden.

Key messages
• Communities have strong understanding of their public health challenges and can effectively guide the development of intervention strategies.
• It is feasible to derive meaningful and informative feedback to direct public health action through shared power in research and community-engagement.
Loneliness, ageism and mental wellbeing in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rodríguez-Blázquez C , Rojo-Perez F , Rodriguez-Rodriguez V , Forjaz M J , Fernandez-Mayoralas G , Martin S 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
The measures imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially social distancing, had important effects on feelings of loneliness. The objective of this work is to assess the perception of loneliness in older adults living in nursing homes during the pandemic, how it has changed during the pandemic and its explanatory factors.

Methods
The data come from the cross-sectional project “Protective environments of the elderly in health crises”, carried out in the Community of Madrid (Spain) in 2021. The variables used were the frequency of feelings of loneliness and its change during the pandemic, as well as socio-demographic, health, emotional and contextual characteristics. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analysis were calculated.

Results
The sample consisted of 447 people; mean age was 83.8; 63.1% were women; half of the sample were widowed; 40% had an educative level lower than primary. Almost 3 out of 10 residents stated that they often or always/almost always felt alone. In the regression model, loneliness was negatively associated with age, number of medications, emotional balance, coping ability, self-perception of aging, and engaging in rewarding activities; while having a low assessment of mobility in the residential environment was positively associated. In addition, 28% of the participants who declared loneliness, also felt lonelier than before the pandemic. The variables associated with change in feelings of loneliness were age, self-perception of aging and a low assessment of the residential environment.

Conclusions
The restrictions on mobility and social relationships during the COVID-19 epidemic have affected older people who were living in residences, with an increase in the feeling of loneliness related to demographic, emotional and contextual variables. Interventions on the design of residential spaces can mitigate the effects of isolation and loneliness related to health crises such as COVID-19 pandemic.
Identifying the Gaps Between Public Health Training and Practice: A Workforce Competencies Analysis
Authors: Bashkin O , Otok R , Kapra O , Czabanowska K , Leighton L , Dopelt K , Davidovitch N , Tulchinsky T , Barach P , Mor Z 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the critical needs for a well-qualified and proficient workforce to provide comprehensive, high-quality health services, reach minorities, reduce health inequalities, and confront emerging health challenges. We aimed to generate insights on how best to enhance the compatibility between Public Health (PH) training program competencies and the implementation of competencies required by employers in addressing emerging public health needs.

Methods
We conducted an online survey, adapted from the WHO-ASPHER Competency Framework for the PH Workforce, among Israeli PH managers from August to November 2021. The survey was pretested using a modified Delphi method process. The final survey comprised 44 PH competencies divided into ten categories and was formulated to mirror Essential Public Health Operations (EPHOs). Reliability of items ranged from Cronbach's α = 0.56 to α = 0.86. Forty-nine managers participated (37.6% response rate) in the assessment of PH competencies and the core organizational PH health operations. Participants were employed at regional health departments or governmental offices (51%), followed by Ministry of Health headquarters and other governmental offices (29%).

Results
Analysis of the EPHOs revealed a high deficiency in Advocacy Communication and Social Mobilization for health competencies. Collaborations & Partnership and, Leadership & System Thinking were the most reported insufficient competencies, particularly in health departments and research institutes. Governmental offices reported Organizational Literacy & Adaptability competencies being deficient. Deficiencies were more impactful as the level of expertise increased.

Conclusions
There is an urgent need for PH professionals to acquire versatile and innovative competencies in response to ever-changing health threats. Using a validated survey backed by an expert consensus, our analyses profiled the work needs of many PH workforce employers.

Key messages
• Leaders of PH services and PH higher education programs should discuss actionable ways to collaborate, redesign and better adapt educational programs to the evolving and demanding field needs.
• Continuous evaluation of PH competencies can prepare a competent PH workforce ready to confront new health challenges and adapt to the changing population health.