The Effect of Competitiveness on Economic Performance in Selected Developing and Developed Countries

Abstract

Self-care is a valuable step in preventing and controlling the high-risk sexual behaviors leading to sexually transmitted diseases, and ultimately improving the general health of vulnerable women in society. This study aimed to determine the effect of self-care education on the general health status of vulnerable women. The current field trial study was conducted in 2011-2012, in vulnerable women referring to counseling centers affiliated with provincial support service centers in Isfahan City, Iran. A total of 64 women were selected according to the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. The required data were collected using a demographic data questionnaire and general health standard tool. The obtained data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistics. The obtained results indicated no significant difference in the mean general health pretest scores of intervention and control groups in general health domains (P>0.05). However, immediately and three months after the implementation of the general healthcare program, the mean general health scores of all domains significantly reduced in the intervention group, compared to the controls (p < 0.05). The implementation of Orem’s self-care educational program can play a role in promoting the general health of vulnerable women in terms of biosocial aspects, as well as anxiety and depression. It is suggested that this program be used in healthcare centers for vulnerable populations.JEL Classification: C33, F43, O11, O47