- Research Article
1
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2529798
- Jul 23, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Sarah Flora + 2 more
ABSTRACT Background College students notoriously engage in sleep impairing behaviors, impacting their overall health. In-person sleep education interventions for college students have shown mixed effects on improving sleep behaviors. Online medium of delivery may intervene where in-person-only interventions are lacking. Purpose Evaluate the effectiveness of online sleep education interventions for college students. Methods This study analyzed education-based, sleep behavior interventions targeting college students published between 2014 and 2024 that incorporated atleast one online modality within MEDLINE, CINAHL Ultimate, ERIC, and AcademicSearch Premiere databases. Methodological quality was measured through the Jadad Scale. Results Studies (N = 6) had a mean Jadad score of 6.17. Most interventions (n = 4) used randomized control trial designs, predominantly recruited White and female participants. Studies were fully or partially, were primarily evaluated using investigator-created scales, and used varying sleep outcome measures. Two studies incorporated health behavior theory. While all interventions tracked adherence, only three examined participant satisfaction. Discussion Online sleep education interventions show mixed effects on college student sleep outcomes. Future interventions should evaluate program fidelity, increase demographic diversity, and operationalize behavior change theories. Translation to Health Education Practice Health education specialists should consider the use of online sleep education interventions for improving college students’ sleep outcomes.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2529790
- Jul 23, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Payal Kahar + 3 more
ABSTRACT Purpose To compare Haitian and Latino immigrant groups’ health knowledge pre and post intervention based on demographic and clinical measures and examine nutrition and physical activity self-efficacy. Methods A convenience sample of 156 Haitians, and 128 Latinos ≥ 18 years was recruited through flyers and word-of-mouth at faith/community-based organizations. Pre-post-health knowledge assessments consisting of 20 questions were from Florida Literacy Coalition Staying Healthy curriculum. Data on self-efficacy scores using validated scales, demographics, and clinical measures were collected. Results There were statistically significant improvements in post-knowledge scores for Haitians (p < .001) and Latinos (p < .001) respectively. The two groups differed in pre-knowledge scores(p < .001), post-knowledge scores (p < .001), and nutrition self-efficacy (p < .001). There was a significant association and medium to large effect of ethnicity with age, work status, level of education, age at immigration, health insurance, and measured blood pressure. Discussion Brief culturally tailored health presentations increased health knowledge in both groups. Persistent disparities in knowledge and self-efficacy highlight the need for targeted approaches addressing social contexts. Translation to Health Education Practice Understanding the existing differences in Latino and Haitian communities and leveraging faith-based and community partnerships to deliver tailored, accessible education can increase health literacy.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2529786
- Jul 17, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Bradley Maccosham + 1 more
ABSTRACT Background This study explores the experiences and perceptions of adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) who participated in the Fearless Physical Activity program, a community-based initiative aimed at promoting physical activity in CHD patients. Methods Using a qualitative research design, 27 participants were recruited and participated in semi-structured interviews. Results Thematic analysis revealed key factors influencing participation, including identity, social inclusion and program design. Discussion The study concludes that future ACHD-specific programs must address the diverse needs of ACHD patients, offering adaptable activities, consistent scheduling and clearer communication. Translation to Health Education Practice This study informs several Areas of Responsibility for health education specialists. Area I (Assessment) is addressed by identifying identity-related barriers to participation. Area II (Planning) highlights the need to co-design inclusive programs with ACHD patients. Area IV (Evaluation and Research) is supported through the use of qualitative methods to assess program impact. Lastly, Areas VI (Advocacy) and VII (Communication) emphasize the importance of clear messaging and advocating for inclusive, sustainable program funding.
- Discussion
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2529789
- Jul 11, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Melissa Haithcox-Dennis + 1 more
ABSTRACT Health education specialists can access many resources – planning tools, U.S. health surveillance data, policy updates, and systematic reviews – to identify, plan, and implement evidence-based interventions. However, these resources can be challenging to interpret and apply effectively. Health education specialists must be able to identify evidence-based interventions, adapt them to specific populations, and implement them in ways that lead to improved health outcomes. This commentary introduces a conceptual approach to enhancing the use of The Guide to Community Preventive Services; (The Community Guide) in public health practice. It explores how two artificial technologies – chatbots and digital twins – can support the planning process and encourage the broader adoption of evidence-based interventions. The Evidence to Action tool is organized around the PRECEDE-PROCEED model and includes features that guide users through assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation. It also connects health education specialists to What Works fact sheets and key Community Preventive Services Task Force resources. While the tool offers new ways to organize and apply information, it remains grounded in the core values of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model, including relevance, participation, and ethical practice. The approach has practical implications for strengthening the capacity of the public health workforce and supporting evidence-informed decision-making in real-world settings.
- Research Article
2
- 10.1080/19325037.2024.2421542
- Jun 23, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Elaheh Shoushtari-Moghaddam + 4 more
ABSTRACT Background Retirement challenges can significantly impact retirees’ well-being. Purpose This study investigated retirees’ psychological well-being (PWB) and ways of coping (WOC) during retirement. Methods A cross-sectional study of 341 retirees was conducted using systematic random sampling. Standardized questionnaires evaluated PWB and WOC. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Pearson correlation, and linear regression in SPSS-26. Results Fewer than half the retirees reached the target range for PWB (82.1 ± 10.3) and WOC (94.2 ± 20.8). Males reported higher PWB scores than females, particularly in autonomy, environmental mastery, and self-acceptance. Oil industry retirees scored higher on PWB than education sector retirees, with notable differences in autonomy and self-acceptance. Higher education and financial stability were linked to better WOC and PWB. Specifically, seniors with higher incomes reported more effective WOC and those with higher education levels demonstrated a stronger use of problem-focused coping. Sub-constructs of PWB and WOC were significantly correlated, with escape avoidance negatively impacting self-acceptance and life purpose. Discussion The low levels of PWB and WOC among retirees emphasize the need for tailored interventions. Health professionals should develop customized programs addressing the specific needs of different demographic groups to improve mental health outcomes. Translation to Health Education Practice Considering socio-economic and demographic variables is crucial when developing mental health interventions for retirees. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars.
- Research Article
1
- 10.1080/19325037.2024.2396583
- Jun 23, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Laiba Rizvi + 6 more
ABSTRACT Background Tobacco use, whether through hubble-bubble pipes or conventional cigarettes, poses significant risks to respiratory health. Purpose Researchers aimed to assess the respiratory health and underlying tobacco use motives among hubble-bubble pipe consumers and cigarette smokers. Methods A comparative cross-sectional study involved 340 smokers from Pakistan. A self-administered questionnaire included demographic-related questions and two validated tools, i.e. Questionnaire for Ease of Cough and Sputum Clearance and Tobacco Motives Inventory. Data analysis utilized SPSS involving descriptive statistics, Mann Whitney U test, and Kruskal Wallis tests. Results In comparison to hubble-bubble pipe consumers, cigarette smokers had significantly poor respiratory health (p = .001, median = 8 vs. 10). Moreover, cigarette smokers reported higher social, self-enhancement, boredom relief, and affect regulation motives (p < .001). Respiratory health was also significantly different across gender, age, qualification, occupational status, marital status, lifestyle, and family history of smoking. Tobacco motives differed across gender, age, qualification, occupational status, socioeconomic status, lifestyle, and family history. Discussion Although hubble-bubble pipe consumers reported lower respiratory health issues, consuming it is still a critical health concern. Translation to Health Education Practice Planning targeted education programs and interventions could address the underlying motives of tobacco consumption and thus can effectively improve respiratory health and promote smoking cessation. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars.
- Research Article
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2513904
- Jun 9, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Emily Van Wasshenova + 1 more
ABSTRACT Background Physical inactivity is a modifiable cancer risk factor, yet many adults fail to meet guidelines. Purpose Explore how cancer beliefs, self-efficacy, health and sociodemographics predict meeting moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity guidelines. Methods A secondary analysis of 2020 health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5, Cycle 4 (n = 3,865). Stepwise binary logistic regression examined the correlates of meeting moderate-intensity aerobic guidelines. Results 36.6% met moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity guidelines. Meeting guidelines was associated with having an overweight (OR = 1.74, 95% CI [1.44–2.10]) or healthy BMI (OR = 1.96, 95% CI [1.61–2.40]) and the belief, “there’s not much you can do to lower your chances of getting cancer” (OR = 1.2, 95% CI [1.07–1.3]). Believing overweight or obese influences cancer (OR = 0.89, 95% CI [0.83–0.96]) was associated with lower odds of meeting guidelines. Discussion Cancer fatalism beliefs and beliefs about cancer were associated with physical activity guidelines, suggesting that correcting misconceptions may promote physical activity. Translation to Health Education Practice Health Educators can address misconceptions by using clear, actionable messages that emphasize the benefits of physical activity beyond weight control and challenging fatalistic cancer beliefs by promoting physical activity as a cancer risk reduction strategy.
- Research Article
5
- 10.1080/19325037.2024.2396586
- May 24, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Alicia Wodika + 4 more
ABSTRACT Background Young adults are experiencing high levels of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. At colleges and universities across the United States, programs exist to address student mental health needs exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Purpose Current levels of loneliness among students (n = 487) at a Midwest university were researched to compare with previous trends and develop clearer recommendations for purposeful interventions. Methods This study utilized a cross-sectional study design with the UCLA Loneliness Scale during the fall 2022 semester. Results Higher levels of loneliness were linked to the demographics of identifying as cis-males, non-binary, and/or students of color. Students who had greater than 4+ h of social media usage per week and first year students also displayed the highest levels of loneliness. Qualitative data from student participants highlighted the importance of having a peer attend events with them, familiarity of event structures, and expanding access to counseling services and mentorship programs. Discussion Intentional development of programs needs to be prioritized to address student loneliness on campus. Translation to Health Education Practice With the increase in loneliness across the United States, there existopportunities for mentoring programs for struggling students and to build community to normalize the promotion of mental and emotional health resources.
- Addendum
- 10.1080/19325037.2025.2508102
- May 24, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Research Article
- 10.1080/19325037.2024.2396608
- May 4, 2025
- American Journal of Health Education
- Betsy Sara Zacharias + 4 more
ABSTRACT Background Orthorexia nervosa is a pathological obsession concerning healthy eating with associated restrictive behavior. They firmly restrict their diet, eating only things that they believe are pure or beneficial. Purpose This study aimed to understand the orthorexia nervosa tendencies among young adults and their association with anxiety, self-esteem, and eating attitude. Method Purposive sampling was employed for selecting 274 young individuals to participate in this cross-sectional research. Data was collected from an online survey using Test of Orthorexia Nervosa-17, generalized anxiety disorder-7, Rosenberg self-esteem inventory, and eating attitude test-26. Result There were 210 females and 64 males. We identified a tendency of orthorexia nervosa in 105 (38.32%) of participants. A high score on disordered eating attitude was found in people with a tendency for orthorexia nervosa. Level of education (negative), self-esteem and eating attitude (positive) predicted orthorexia nervosa. Discussion Study has shown a statistically significant relationship between orthorexia nervosa and eating attitude. Further clinical study is necessary to determine the cause-and-effect link to psychiatric comorbidities. Translation to Health Education Practice Focusing on consuming healthy food is desirable; however, young adults need education regarding the physiological and mental implications of pathological obsession of eating healthy food. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars.