Comprehensive Health Education Research Articles

Exploring midwives' training needs and preferences for providing sexual health education for pregnant women: a mixed-methods study.

Background Numerous studies highlight a common inadequacy among midwives in addressing sexuality and sexual health issues in pregnant women. These findings underscore the crucial need for sexual health education for midwives. Nevertheless, the specific training needs and preferences regarding sexual health education for pregnant women among midwives remain largely unexplored in existing literature. The aim of this study was to explore midwives' training needs and preferences for providing sexual health education for pregnant women. Methods The research employed a mixed-methods, institution-based cross-sectional study design conducted from July to August 2021. Convenience sampling was applied for quantitative research, while purposive sampling was utilised for the qualitative component. Midwives from 19 hospitals in Guangdong Province were invited to participate in a questionnaire survey addressing training needs and preferences for sexual health education for pregnant women among midwives. Qualitative data analysis was performed using thematic analysis. Results A total of 462 midwives participated in the quantitative study, while 12 skilled midwives were involved in the qualitative component. A significant majority (82.5%) of midwives expressed a strong desire to engage in sexual health education. Online education emerged as the preferred mode of training among participants. Key areas of interest included reproductive health, sexual psychology, sex sociology, and education methods, underscoring a consistent demand for comprehensive sexual health education within the midwifery community. Conclusions Our study emphasises the pressing need for enhanced sexual health education for midwives and explores their preferences for future training.

Large Language Models in an App: Conducting a Qualitative Synthetic Data Analysis of How Snapchat’s “My AI” Responds to Questions About Sexual Consent, Sexual Refusals, Sexual Assault, and Sexting

ABSTRACT Comprehensive sexual health education for young people often remains largely inaccessible, leaving gaps in knowledge about sexual consent, refusals, sexual assault, and sexting. Snapchat’s My AI, tailored to its users, offers accessible and potentially stigma-free responses to sexual health queries, showing promise in addressing these gaps. This study aimed to evaluate My AI’s effectiveness in handling questions related to sexual communication, assault, and sexting, and its response consistency across users. Collaborating with young adults and leveraging prior literature, our team formulated questions on sexual consent, refusals, sexual assault, and sexting submitted to My AI by 15 researchers. Each team member opened a chat with My AI in Snapchat and asked it a set of questions in the same order. We then conducted a qualitative content analysis to assess for consistency across users. My AI responses emphasized the importance of clear, honest consent and refusal communication through physical contact or direct conversation. With potential experiences of sexual assault or sexting, it advised consultation with a trusted caregiver. While My AI provided similar responses across researchers, variations were noted. My AI’s responses mirrored common sexual health education messages and the responses used language reflective of sympathy toward potential assault victims or those who were asked for sexual images. My AI’s potential to enhance accessibility to sexual health information could empower young people in making informed sexual health decisions. However, variability in responses may limit impact and comprehension, underscoring the importance of educators complementing these tools.

Social Causes of Abortion in Tanzania

The article "Social Causes of Abortion in Tanzania" explores the multifaceted social factors contributing to abortion rates in the country. It highlights the interplay of cultural, educational, and systemic challenges that influence the decision to terminate a pregnancy. Juvenile delinquency and truancy, compounded by a lack of comprehensive sex education, create an environment where adolescents are ill-prepared to navigate sexual health. The pressures of academic achievement further complicate this landscape, as many young people feel compelled to prioritize schooling over parenting. Limited access to reproductive health services exacerbates the issue, with many women unable to obtain necessary information or support.Fear of stigma and discrimination plays a crucial role, as societal attitudes towards single motherhood and abortion lead to social exclusion and negative stereotypes, increasing the burdens felt by women. Additionally, peer pressure, along with familial and relationship dynamics, such as pressure from boyfriends or physicians, further complicates personal decision-making. The article also discusses the implications of timing and the physician's role in oversimplifying abortion procedures, contributing to the dilemma faced by women. By examining these intertwined social causes, the article aims to shed light on the broader societal context influencing abortion in Tanzania, ultimately calling for more inclusive policies and support systems that address these pressing issues. Through a deeper understanding of these factors, stakeholders can better advocate for reproductive and comprehensive health education, fostering a more supportive environment for the lives of women and youth.

Scientific Research in Midwifery and Health Adolescent Reproduction

The research method applied is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. Thematic analysis technique was used to analyze the data obtained. The results showed that adolescents' knowledge about reproductive health is still limited and diverse. The majority of adolescents get information from peers and social media, while sources of information from family and school are still lacking. Factors that contribute to risky behavior include lack of comprehensive sexual education, peer pressure, and limited access to reproductive health services. The conclusion of this study highlights the importance of improving comprehensive reproductive health education at school and within the family. In addition, easier and more youth-friendly access to reproductive health services is needed. These effects are expected to reduce risky behaviors and improve overall adolescent reproductive health.

Knowledge gaps related to HIV and condom use for preventing pregnancy: a cross-sectional study among migrants in Sweden

BackgroundInformation and knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) plays a crucial role in promoting safe sexual practices among young migrants. We aimed to assess the sociodemographic factors of migrants associated with knowledge of condoms and the prevention, treatment, and transmission of HIV to highlight the need for SRHR information, including comprehensive sexual health education.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted (2018–2019) among migrants at Swedish language schools and high schools across Sweden. The survey included questions about knowledge of condom use for preventing pregnancy and HIV treatment and transmission. Descriptive statistics were calculated, and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the responses to the knowledge questions and sociodemographic characteristics.ResultsOut of 3430 respondents (median age: 35, interquartile range: 20), approximately 39% were unaware that condoms can prevent unplanned pregnancies. Only 58% of the respondents knew that condoms reduce the risk of contracting HIV. About 77% were unaware of HIV treatment, and 52% reported not knowing that a woman with HIV could transmit the virus to her baby during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Incorrect knowledge about condom use to prevent unwanted pregnancy was associated with several factors: younger age (15–19 years) adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.35; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–1.79); female respondents (aOR: 1.68; 95% CI 1.36–2.07); lack of previous sexual health education (aOR: 2.57; 95% CI 2.11–3.13); low level of education (aOR: 1.30; 95% CI 1.04–1.61). Originating from the Americas, European, or sub-Saharan African regions was associated with a 34–42% decreased likelihood of incorrect knowledge that condoms can reduce the risk of HIV infection compared to respondents from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). More than half (64%) of respondents reported needing more SRHR information.ConclusionsWe found significant knowledge gaps on HIV and condom use for preventing pregnancy among migrants in Sweden. Comprehensive sexual health education in language schools, along with information to newly arrived migrants from diverse regional backgrounds and targeted sexual health services to younger individuals, women, and those who lack sexual health education, are needed to address these information gaps and provide crucial SRHR education and information.

Determinants of neonatal hypoglycemia among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units of public hospitals in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2023: An unmatched case-control study.

Globally, neonatal hypoglycemia is a common child health problem and significantly contributes to morbidity and mortality, with its impact being particularly detrimental in developing countries. Although being a prevalent metabolic condition, it is frequently overlooked. Furthermore, the problem is not adequately studied in Ethiopia, as seen by a few published studies on the topic, highlighting the lack of knowledge about its determinants. This study aims to assess the determinants of neonatal hypoglycemia among neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care units of public hospitals in Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2023. An institution-based unmatched case-control study design was conducted among 249 (83 cases and 166 controls) participants. Data were collected from 29 March to 23 May 2023 using a pretested chart review extraction tool/checklist. A consecutive sampling method was used for participant selection. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science version 25. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinants of neonatal hypoglycemia, and statistical significance was declared at P < 0.05. A total of 83 cases and 166 controls were included in the study. The following factors were significantly associated with neonatal hypoglycemia: preterm neonates [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 4.888 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.113-21.478)], age of the neonate at admission (3-5 h) [AOR 4.205 (95% CI 1.852-9.547)], hypothermia [AOR 5.485 (95% CI 2.360-12.748)], late initiation of breastfeeding [AOR 6.229 (95% CI 2.665-14.599)], mode of delivery [AOR 5.034 (95% CI 1.688-15.011)], and small for gestational age [AOR 3.645 (95% CI 1.286-10.330)]. In the current study, numerous determinants of neonatal hypoglycemia have been identified. Therefore, it is crucial to give due emphasis to providing comprehensive health education to mothers regarding effective breastfeeding methods, strategies to avoid neonatal hypoglycemia, and the various factors that heighten its likelihood. In addition, healthcare professionals should emphasize implementing preventive measures to prevent this grave condition.

Dietary and activity habits associated with hypertension in Kunming school-aged children and adolescents: A multilevel analysis of the study of hypertension risks in children and adolescents

ObjectiveHypertension has become a public health challenge for Yunnan children and adolescents. The study aims is to assess the dietary and activity habits associated with hypertension in Kunming children and adolescents and to develop effective strategies for preventing and controlling, Southwest China. MethodsConducted in 2019, the cross-sectional study involved 3,150 students, aged 13.25 ± 2.77 years, multistage, stratified, randomly sampled from Chenggong and Fumin areas, Southwest China. ResultsAmong 3,150 participants, 6.19 % never drank milk, 3.46 % never consumed fresh fruit. 2.67 % never consumed fresh vegetables, 2.48 % never ate breakfast and 10.06 % frequently drank sugary beverages (soft drinking). Additionally, 21.56 % engaged in moderate-intensity exercise less than one Day a week, and 31.97 % performed high-intensity exercise less than one Day a week. The intraclass correlation coefficient indicated that 49.40 % of the total variance was attributed to the dietary level and 42.10 % was attributed to the activity level. Eating fresh vegetables and fruit, taking physical education classes they attended per week and the frequency of moderate-intensity and high-intensity exercise per week were independent protective factors for hypertension (P < 0.01); drinking sugary beverages (soft drinking) was a independent risk factor against hypertension (P < 0.05); breakfast skipping was a possible risk factor for hypertension (P < 0.15). No significant associations were found with fried food or sweet food weekly consumption (P < 0.15). ConclusionsThe hypertension of children and adolescents cannot be ignored in Kunming, Southwest china. Dietary and activity factors are modifiable. We should make comprehensive child-friendly health education materials as soon as possible.

Socio-ecological influences on access to abortion care in Costa Rica: a qualitative analysis of key perspectives from clinical and policy stakeholders

Costa Rica prohibits abortion except under narrow circumstances to save the pregnant person’s life. The country boasts historically strong support for social policy and human rights, while also presenting a complex and restrictive abortion access landscape. From September 2021 to March 2022, we conducted 23 interviews with obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN) physicians, OB/GYN medical residents, and policy stakeholders to explore the socio-ecological influences on abortion access in Costa Rica. We sampled clinicians and policy stakeholders from the Universidad de Ciencias Médicas listserv through snowball sampling and conducted semi-structured in-depth interviews in Spanish. We identified limited access to comprehensive sexual health education, lack of support from interpersonal networks, inadequate provider knowledge and training, financial and migratory status, and both provider and community stigma as substantial barriers to abortion access. This study addresses a gap in published research around the social determinants of abortion in Costa Rica and sheds light on the attitudes and opinions of the medical and policy stakeholder communities about abortion access. The results highlight the need for expanded access to comprehensive sexual health education, abortion-related training for healthcare providers, and increased programming efforts, such as funding, outreach, and implementation, to ensure comprehensive reproductive health services are available and accessible, especially for vulnerable populations in Costa Rica.

Factors associated with under- fives unintentional injuries in Kgalagadi South, Botswana

The study determined the prevalence and factors associated with unintentional injuries among under- fives in Kgalagadi South. A descriptive cross- sectional study was conducted between November 2020 and February 2021 using a multi- stage sampling technique to recruit 389 guardians with children aged five years and below. Self-administered questionnaires were used for the literate population, while interviewer-administered questionnaires were used for the population with limited literacy to elicit information from the guardians. Chi- square, univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used for inferential analysis. The prevalence of unintentional injuries was 48.8%. There was a significant association between injury occurrence and guardians’ employment status, alcohol consumption and non- medicinal drug use by the guardian, cigarette use by the guardian, household income level, gender and age of the child who got injured. The guardians age and cigarette use by the guardian were identified as independent risk factors for injury occurrence among under- five children. The findings highlight the need for policymakers and practitioners to develop policies that support comprehensive health education for caregivers on childhood injury prevention and creating a safe environment for children.

Epidemiological Insights into TORCH Infections in the Population of Erbil City

A seroepidemiological study of the TORCH panel was conducted on inhabitants of Erbil City to provide updated baseline data on TORCH prevalence. 508 individuals were included in this study. 218 (42.91%) were females and 290 (57.09%) were males. Their ages ranged from 13 to 63 year, the majority being within the age group (21-30 years), 162 (31.89%), (P &lt; 0.05). 20 individuals (3.94%) tested positive for anti-TOX IgG antibodies. One of the 20 (5%) tested positive for anti-TOX IgM antibodies, who was a 32-year-old female. 128 individuals (25.2%) (all females) tested positive for anti-Rubella IgG antibodies. 40 individuals (7.87%) were positive for anti-CMV IgG antibodies. One of the 40 (2.5%) also tested positive for anti-CMV IgM antibodies, who was a 26-year-old male. 18 individuals (3.54%) tested positive for anti-HSV-1 IgG antibodies. One of the 18 (5.56%) also tested positive for anti-HSV-1 IgM antibodies. One 18-year-old male (0.2%) tested positive for anti-HSV-2 IgG antibodies, and none were positive for anti-HSV-2 IgM antibodies. The results suggest the presence of Toxoplasma, CMV, HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections among the community, the majority (P &lt; 0.05) being CMV followed by TOX and HSV-1 and finally HSV-2. The positive IgG results of Rubella are most probably due to the obligatory vaccination program for females. Despite the fact that the majority of positive cases were for IgG, enhancing vaccination efforts and providing comprehensive health education is crucial for enhancing the well-being of the Erbil population.

Human Ocular Toxoplasmosis in Romania: History, Epidemiology, and Public Health: A Narrative Review.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), presents a significant global health concern, particularly for immunocompromised individuals and congenitally infected newborns. Despite its widespread prevalence, there are limited data on T. gondii seroprevalence and ocular toxoplasmosis in Romania. This review aims to summarize the research accomplished on the prevalence and epidemiology of human ocular toxoplasmosis in Romania. Ocular toxoplasmosis, a leading cause of infectious posterior uveitis worldwide, involves complex interactions between host immune responses and parasite factors. Clinically, it presents as focal necrotizing retinitis, characterized by active focal retinal lesions with adjacent chorioretinal scarring, often accompanied by vitreous inflammation and anterior chamber reactions. Diagnosis relies on clinical examination supported by fundus photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and serological assays. The authors followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) standards, conducting a literature review on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Our focus was on ocular toxoplasmosis in Romania, and we used keywords and specific MeSH terms. Finally, 17 articles met all the criteria, as summarized in the PRISMA diagram. This study underscores the need for improved diagnostic methods, increased research efforts, and comprehensive public health education to mitigate the burden of toxoplasmosis and ocular toxoplasmosis in Romania.

Fostering open dialogue: Creating safe spaces for adolescents to discuss sexual health

Sexual health education has significant implications on the physical and mental well-being of adolescents, yet several barriers impede the delivery of a quality curriculum. This article explores the challenges and importance of comprehensive sexual education. Through the experiences of adolescents like “Maya” (pseudonym), we discuss the need for safe spaces, inclusive curricula, and supportive networks to address gaps in sexual health education. The article also examines the current landscape of sexual education across the United States, emphasizing the role of advocacy and community-driven initiatives in promoting standardized, inclusive, and comprehensive programs. It concludes with actionable steps individuals can take at the local, national, and legislative level to support and advance comprehensive sexual health education.

Generative AI as a Catalyst to Elevate School Health Education

Comprehensive school health education (HE), despite its link to enhancing both student health and academic achievement, often faces barriers to effective implementation. As pedagogical strategies evolve to integrate traditional methods with technological innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), the adoption of innovation in HE preparation and instruction becomes vital to maintain its relevance and increase student achievement. Leveraging generative AI holds immense promise for enhancing the HE curriculum, instruction, assessment, and learning environment. Presently available AI tools, such as ChatGPT, can facilitate dynamic generation and adaptive modification of the HE curriculum, incorporating best practices such as backward design, standards-based alignment, and a focus on skill development. AI technology can also enhance inclusivity and equity by developing curricula that incorporate academic supports and principles such as Universal Design for Learning to better tailor lessons to accommodate student needs. Assessment can be improved through the creation and modification of unique formative and summative evaluations. Additionally, supplemental activities and teaching strategies can be generated tailored to identified areas of growth. Finally, AI holds immense promise for multi-subject standard integration and collaboration aligning with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model. Through the considerate use of AI, educators can foster a more responsive and effective HE learning environment that aligns with the diverse and evolving needs of students.

The trend analysis of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections among the elderly aged 50 to 69 years from 1990 to 2030.

The HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STI) excluding HIV among the elderly population urgently require more attention and in-depth study. We aimed to present and predict the worldwide of its burden from 1990 to 2030 using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study. Leveraging the 2019 GBD study, we investigated the average annual percentage change (AAPC) of HIV and other STI in incidence, prevalence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality rates for individuals aged 50-69 across different age groups, genders, sociodemographic index (SDI) regions, and nations. The incidence of STI in the population from 2020 to 2030 was explored by Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) prediction model. The HIV incidence rate experienced its fastest growth 1990-1992, peaked in 1996, and gradually declined thereafter, with the 2019 rate being lower than that of 1990. The prevalence rate didn't present a sharp turning point. After 2006, its growth rate accelerated. Both DALYs and mortality rates plateaued high between 2002 and 2005, followed by a decline. The decline was steepest from 2005-2012, yet the rate of decrease slowed noticeably from 2012-2019.When segmented by age, HIV was more prevalent among those aged 55-59 and 50-54, with the 50-54 age group witnessing the fastest decline in incidence rates. However, the fastest growth in prevalence rates was seen among the 60-64 and 65-69 age groups. The other STI incidence rate declined from 1990-1996, increased up to 2006, declined until 2015, and then saw a resurgence with accelerated growth thereafter. The prevalence rate showcased varied trends, with a notable increase in the past five years. The highest growth in incidence rate was among the 65-69 age group. We predict that the incidence rate of STI will increase in the future. Overall, despite the evident decline in incidence, mortality rates, and DALYs, the prevalence of HIV and other STI among the elderly is rising, and both demonstrated significant trend variations across different ages, genders, SDI regions, and nations. Comprehensive sexual health education, clinical care and adjustments in health service strategies based on the evolving trends of HIV and other STI among the elderly are paramount.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Associated Oral Health in Adolescents: A Comprehensive Scoping Review.

The shift to processed foods in American diets has increased vitamin and mineral deficiencies among adolescents, impacting growth and health, often manifesting as oral lesions. This review study aimed to explore the link between nutritional deficiencies and adolescent oral health to improve guidance and prevent long-term issues. A systematic review of literature from 2013 to 2023 was conducted on adolescents aged 10-19 years, using PRISMA guidelines. Searches in PubMed, Web of Science, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source-Ebscohost, and Scopus included peer-reviewed articles, excluding reviews and non-empirical studies. Data were screened and extracted with independent reviews for accuracy. Malnutrition strongly correlates with poor oral health. Undernourished children have a 60% increase in dental caries, exacerbated by high sugar intake. Early malnutrition delays dental eruption, temporarily protecting against caries, while stunting and infections cause enamel defects. Chronic conditions like cerebral palsy and celiac disease worsen oral health, with risks persisting into adulthood. Nutritional deficiencies and oral health are interconnected, requiring integrated healthcare. Early interventions and holistic strategies can improve outcomes and reduce long-term burdens. Comprehensive health education and routine dental evaluations are essential for prevention and treatment, enhancing health across all demographics.

Prevalence of tobacco smoking and related factors in people aged 15 years and above in Beijing, 2014-2021

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the implementation of Beijing Smoking Control Regulation in 2015 on the smoking prevalence in people aged ≥15 years in Beijing during 2014-2021, and explore factors associated with tobacco use behavior in local population. Methods Using a pooled cross-sectional design, data from Beijing Adult Tobacco Survey in 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021 (4 surveys) were combined into one dataset. The 4 surveys used same multistage cluster sampling procedure. After complex survey weighting, multiple logistic regression models were constructed to analyze factors influencing smoking status. Results: A total of 8 484, 9 372, 8 534 and 10 551 respondents were included in the surveys in 2014, 2016, 2019 and 2021, respectively. The smoking prevalence rate was 23.4%, 22.3%, 20.3% and 19.9%, respectively, in Beijing residents aged ≥15 years, exhibiting a linear declining trend (P=0.010). Factors associated with current smoking in men were age 25-44 years (OR=2.22, 95%CI: 1.68-2.95) and 45-64 years, (OR=2.64, 95%CI: 2.06-3.39), educational level of high school (OR=0.69, 95%CI: 0.49-0.95) and undergraduate and above (OR=0.46, 95%CI: 0.33-0.63), and awareness of smoking causing stroke (OR=0.71, 95%CI: 0.61-0.81), and awareness of smoking causing lung cancer (OR=0.53, 95%CI: 0.42-0.66), the differences were significant (all P<0.05). After controlling interfering factors, the current smoking prevalence in men in 2019 (OR=0.73, 95%CI: 0.63-0.87, P<0.001) and 2021 (OR=0.72, 95%CI: 0.61-0.88, P<0.001) were significantly lower than that in 2014. Factors associated with current smoking in women were living alone (OR=1.80, 95%CI: 1.33-2.44), educational level of undergraduate and above (OR=0.43, 95%CI: 0.27-0.69), other occupations except doctor and teacher (OR=8.54, 95%CI: 2.80-26.02) or being retired/unemployed (OR=9.39, 95%CI: 3.19-27.65), and awareness of smoking causing cardiovascular events (OR=0.58, 95%CI: 0.39-0.84), and awareness of smoking causing lung cancer (OR=0.54, 95%CI: 0.35-0.83), the differences were significant (all P<0.05). No significant change in smoking status in women was found in 4 surveys. Conclusions: The smoking prevalence rate in men in Beijing has declined since the implementation of Beijing Smoking Control Regulation 5 years, indicating the effectiveness of legislative approach in tobacco control. Socio-demographic factors and the awareness level of tobacco harm could influence smoking status. Future tobacco control programs should target the people with lower education level, young men, women living alone, and those with occupations other than teachers/doctors or the unemployed/retired and include more comprehensive health education.

Studying Mothers' Knowledge and Perceptions of Adolescent Reproductive Health

Correction of: https://wmmjournal.org/index.php/wmm/article/view/142 DOI: https://doi.org/10.36749/wmm.4.1.8-16.2024 Background: Reproductive health education is obtaining information and forming attitudes and beliefs about sex, sexual identity, relationships, and intimacy. Mothers are the primary caregivers and have an essential role in providing reproductive health and sexual education to adolescents. Parents' lack of reproductive health education triggers deviation; therefore, parents, especially mothers, can provide comprehensive reproductive health education to prevent free sexual behaviour and sexual crimes in adolescents. Purpose: To measure the knowledge and perception of mothers about adolescent reproductive health Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a descriptive design. The study involved 135 respondents who were selected using a purposive sampling technique. Analysis using descriptive, T-test and Pearson correlation. Results: More than 50% of respondents answered that adolescents' reproductive health education should be parents' responsibility and education should begin during elementary school. There was a correlation between mothers' knowledge and perception of adolescent reproductive health (r=0.44, p&lt;0.001). Most mothers were afraid of providing sex education due to their ignorance of teaching methods and their lack of knowledge, and mothers wanted to learn about adolescent reproductive health from experts. Conclusion: Mothers want to learn more about sex education from experts or health workers. They were interested in male/female sexual structure and sexual physiology. Open communication between mother and child on sex-related issues is essential. Providing accurate and up-to-date sex education information to parents is vital to effectively educating their children at home.

Enhancing pediatric asthma management through multifaceted health education.

Pediatric asthma is a significant public health issue that impacts the quality of life of children globally. Traditional management approaches focus on symptom control and medication adherence but often overlook the comprehensive educational needs of patients and their families. A multifaceted health education approach may offer a more holistic strategy in managing pediatric asthma, especially in outpatient settings. To evaluate the efficacy of a comprehensive health education strategy in improving disease management, medication adherence, and quality of life among children with asthma in outpatient settings. In total, 100 pediatric patients with severe asthma were enrolled from January 2021 to November 2022 and randomly allocated to a control group (n = 50) or an observation group (n = 50). The control group received standard nursing care, including basic nursing interventions and health education upon admission. In contrast, the observation group was exposed to a broad spectrum of health education methodologies, including internet-based hospital systems, social media channels, one-on-one verbal education, informational brochures, slide presentations, telephone check-ins, animated videos, and illustrated health education manuals. Data on asthma management knowledge, symptom control, quality of life [St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ)], treatment adherence, and nursing satisfaction were collected and analyzed. The scores of the observation group in knowledge areas, such as medication, home care, disease understanding, symptom management, prevention strategies, and nutritional guidance, were significantly higher than those of the control group (P < 0.05). In addition, the observation group exhibited greater symptom control, improved quality of life based on their SGRQ scores, and higher treatment adherence post-intervention (P < 0.05). Nursing satisfaction was also rated higher in the observation group across all evaluated areas (P < 0.05). Implementing a diversified health education approach in pediatric asthma management significantly enhances disease understanding, symptom management, and treatment adherence, leading to improved quality of life for affected children. These findings underscore the importance of multifaceted clinical health education in augmenting disease awareness and facilitating continuous improvements in asthma control rates, highlighting the potential benefits of incorporating comprehensive educational strategies into pediatric asthma care protocols.

Facilitators and Barriers to Implementing a Comprehensive Sexual Health Education Policy in Chicago Public Schools.

In 2013, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) district passed a policy requiring schools to deliver comprehensive sexual health education (SHE) to all K-12th grade students. A performance improvement case study was conducted in the 2019-2020 school year to evaluate the implementation of the policy and identify lessons learned to support implementation in schools. Key informant interviews were conducted with 11 school principals and 29 teachers to discuss SHE implementation at their school. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to assess school and classroom factors that affect implementation. Themes that cut across these factors were then identified and summarized by 2 evaluators. The following themes were identified across key informant interviews: (a) principal prioritization of SHE helps ensure SHE is implemented, (b) the expansion of school and teacher capacity facilitates SHE implementation, and (c) the creation of accountability mechanisms in classrooms and schools fosters adherence to SHE policy. Principals play a crucial role in building capacity to deliver SHE and ensuring SHE accountability mechanisms are implemented in their school. CPS is using these findings to adjust technical assistance and resources provided to principals and SHE instructors.

O-068 Educating young people about reproductive health

Abstract Comprehensive sex and reproductive health education is crucial for promoting overall health and wellbeing, as it plays a vital role in dispelling misinformation, fostering positive attitudes toward reproductive health, and empowering informed decision-making among young people. Despite its recognised importance by global entities such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), comprehensive sex and reproductive health education remains insufficient worldwide. This inadequacy is a multifaceted issue, stemming from various factors, including governmental policies, social norms, cultural beliefs, inadequate curriculum, and insufficient teacher training. Schools, as primary providers of reproductive health education, often prioritise pregnancy prevention over other important reproductive health topics, leading to significant gaps in students' knowledge, further prompting young individuals to seek supplementary knowledge from external sources, like the internet or social media. To address this disparity and to promote reproductive health awareness, the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration (IRHEC) was established in 2019 and aims to provide educational resources for the public, teachers and health professionals. The IRHEC have created a teaching guide specifically for teachers to cover all aspects of reproductive health, to be used in schools globally. To develop this resource, it has been essential to determine what is taught in schools and the attitudes of teenagers to reproductive health education and family building. In the UK, we examined the curriculum in the four nations and huge gaps were identified in reproductive health education. Subsequently, a survey was conducted with 931, 16–18-year-olds in England and pupils were asked their views on their education, if they had been taught about a list of reproductive health topics in school and their attitudes to these topics. They reported that topics around pregnancy prevention were taught, such as contraception (90%), and sexually transmitted infections (90%) but key subjects such as fertility (30%) endometriosis (3%) and PCOS (2%) were not taught. This survey has been repeated in Belgium, Greece and Japan and similar patterns observed. Teenagers in the UK (21%) and Belgium (18%) rated their school sex and reproductive health education to be either poor or very poor compared to teenagers in Japan (3%). In the UK, Belgium, and Japan, young people have similar future parenthood intentions. Most young people in the UK (64%), Japan (60%), and Belgium (60%) want to have children in the future. A higher percentage of young people in Japan (70%) expressed a desire for two children compared to those in Belgium (60%), Greece (53%) and the UK (49%). To ensure comprehensive sex and reproductive health education, efforts must be tailored to the needs of each community and demographic. Collaboration among policymakers, educators, healthcare professionals, and communities is essential to enhance school curricula to include a broader spectrum of reproductive health topics and promote culturally sensitive educational approaches. By doing this, we can empower young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate their reproductive health journey with confidence. There is an urgent need for a concerted action to bridge knowledge gaps and ensure that young people receive comprehensive sex and reproductive health education.