Economic Health Research Articles

A focus on the Chinese stingless bee honey (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini): Exploring physicochemical parameters for establishing quality standards

Stingless bee honey (SBH) is the most important product from stingless bee colonies with great economic value and health benefits. Nevertheless, there is little information on the physiochemical parameters of Chinese SBH, which also limits its utilization and quality control. In the period 2019–2023, we collected 89 Chinese SBH samples produced by five stingless bee species from four provinces in China. We performed comprehensive assessments of various SBH physicochemical indicators. These parameters include moisture, trehalulose, sucrose, fructose, glucose, total soluble solids, Baumé, ash, pH, electrical conductivity, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, and free acidity. Our data revealed that the physicochemical parameters of Chinese SBH are consistent with earlier reported results from other countries. Notably, the Chinese SBH exhibited a relatively low level of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (0–9.64 mg/kg), sucrose (0–0.43 g/100 g), and no diastase activity was detected. Chinese SBH was rich in trehalulose (4.26–37.65 g/100 g). After comparing these indexes with published data and with Australian/Malaysian samples, we proposed a new food standard for regulations of Chinese SBHs. These findings provide crucial insights into the Chinese SBH and contribute significantly to developing quality control and global standards for SBH.

“In a moment of supreme discomfort.” An Analysis of Female Suicides Through the Press in Trieste in the Post-war Transition (1918-1922).

The goal of this essay is to investigate from a gender perspective, through articles in the local press, the phenomenon of female suicides in Trieste during the transitional phase following WWI (1918-1922). This was due to a period of abrupt changes: political, administrative, and economic. In addition, hope for a better future and anxiety had been dashed with the increase in poverty and the rampant violence that swept through the city. In Triste in 1920 for the first time the number of female suicides exceeded the number of male suicides. Based on the judgments made in the press, three macro categories have been identified into which we can place the suicides: the “comprese” (understood) that committed or attempted suicides were considered to be socially acceptable, or at least justified, in so far as that they related to economic reasons, health or familial grief; those considered to be linked to “frivolous motives” and condemned by bourgeois morality because they were connected to matters of romance and family conflict; and finally, those of sex workers (prostitute), about whom open criticisms were put forward, as they were seen as a natural and physiological consequence of life in the brothels.

An Evaluation of Assets Quality of Selected Public and Private Sector Banks in India

The banks performance within a nation needs to be thoroughly assessed, as it plays a crucial role in influencing the country's economic health. This study aims to analyse and evaluate the asset quality of sample Indian public and private sector banks over a ten-year period, from the year 2013-14 to 2023. Banks were chosen based on their market capitalization and net profit, including major public sector banks such as SBI, BOB, and PNB, alongside leading private sector banks like HDFC, ICICI, and KOTAK Bank. The financial performance analysis employs the CAMEL rating model, focusing on the acronym "E." The CAMEL model parameters include Capital Adequacy Ratios (C), Asset Quality Ratios (A), Management Efficiency Ratios (M), Earnings Quality Ratios (E), and Liquidity Ratios (L). The results are analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data for this study were gathered from bank websites, and the CAMEL Model Asset Quality Ratios were applied after processing and organizing this information. Hypothesis testing involved calculations using simple averages and One-way ANOVA. The analysis of the data indicated that private banks excelled in all the ratios of the Asset Quality Parameter than the public banks. Hypothesis testing showed that there is no significant difference between the performance of public and private sector banks when it comes to the asset quality parameter.

Examining multidimensional health poverty and determining factors among rural women of childbearing age in ningxia, china

BackgroundThe multidimensional health poverty afflicting rural women of reproductive age bears profound implications for the sustainable development of families, societies, and healthy villages. Elucidating vulnerable groups at risk of multidimensional health poverty and delineating its determinants can inform refinements and implementation of health-poverty alleviation policies.MethodsBased on the 2022 "Health Status and Health Service Utilization" survey data in rural Ningxia, China, this study analyzes the dimension of health status, capacity for health service utilization, health expenditure and security using the A-F dual-threshold method, logit model, and probit model. It comprehensively evaluates multidimensional health poverty and analyzes its determining factors among rural women of childbearing age.ResultsWith k set at 0.3, the health multidimensional poverty index, incidence, and intensity among rural women of reproductive age were 0.021, 0.053, and 0.392, respectively. Chronic illness, capacity for free gynecological examination utilization, health examination utilization, and borrowing due to illness contributed significantly to multidimensional health poverty. Risk factors for multidimensional health poverty among rural women of childbearing age include age, unemployment, family size, and lack of sanitary toilets. Protective factors include being married, educational level, non-farm or student occupation, receiving government support, separate housing and kitchen, owning a television and computer.ConclusionsEven with the elimination of absolute poverty, the multidimensional health poverty situation among rural women remains important from a gender perspective. It is recommended to strengthen economic assistance and health service support for these groups, improve the level of rural health services from a gender perspective, and enhance housing structure and sanitation toilet usage in rural areas. Efforts should be made to narrow the digital divide in rural areas and promote digital health education. Pre-interventions on multidimensional health poverty can provide new pathways for the development, empowerment, and well-being of rural women of childbearing age.

Анализ показателей российского финансового рынка

The financial market is a key factor in economic development, an important tool for the redistribution and transformation of investment resources, as well as a litmus test of the state's economic health. The peculiarity of the Russian financial market is its "youth" and "inexperience" in comparison with the markets of developed economies, the path of trial and error, inconsistency in the context of the uniqueness of the financial system of the Russian Federation. This market is particularly vulnerable and volatile in the face of sanctions and global economic turmoil, so it needs competent targeting guidance, effective tools and verified coordination methods and techniques. The fundamental problems of the Russian financial market are quite deep and do not always appear on the surface, which requires an in-depth and permanent tactical and strategic analysis of factors, causes, trends, trends and indicators that can correct the situation in a timely manner in any economic scenario in manual management. The article examines the main features, rallies, features and directions of the development of the financial market of the Russian Federation at the present stage. The analysis of the issuer's statements for 2005–2023, dividend payments for the same period is presented, the dynamics of growth of the segment of mutual funds and exchange-traded mutual funds is considered. A comparative structure of household financial assets in 2017 and 2023 is proposed, the share of different organizational and legal forms of joint-stock companies in the total number of joint-stock companies in 2019–2023, the share of different groups of banks in the value of assets of the Russian banking system in 2000–2023 is given. The final results of the study substantiate the importance of the role of the state as a regulator of the stock market, emphasize its Russian functions, and highlight its conceptual problems. The research is based on the analysis of foreign and Russian publications, as well as on statistical conclusions of financial and statistical data.

Delivering scientific evidence for global policy and management to ensure ocean sustainability

AbstractLife depends on the ocean, with societal health, cultural systems and national economies reliant on ocean processes and resources. As ocean resources are used, and humans continue to drive climate change, the benefits from the ocean to society are being diminished. Science must meet the needs of policy and deliver to decision makers the information and tools for identifying pathways that support continued delivery of the benefits society derives from the ocean, whilst minimising impacts. This is crucial if the world’s nations are to meet the goals and targets they have set under international agreements. Here, we outline how a global assessment that focuses specifically on the ocean, the World Ocean Assessment, is linking science to the governments of the world and their policies within an internationally mandated framework. In doing so, we identify key elements that are needed for facilitating engagement by decision makers and uptake of knowledge, and the pathways taken by the assessment in implementing them. We also provide insights into the evolution that the World Ocean Assessment has undertaken over its first three cycles to progress its goal of enhancing the scientific basis of policymaking. We identify the challenges in delivering science to policy at a global scale and the work that still needs to be done in filling gaps to achieve a coordinated, comprehensive mechanism for connecting science with policy and ensuring future sustainability of the ocean.

Molecular epidemiology of avian influenza viruses and avian coronaviruses in environmental samples from migratory bird inhabitants in Bangladesh.

Migratory birds are a natural reservoir for major respiratory viruses such as the avian influenza virus (AIV) and the avian coronavirus (AvCoV). Transmission of these viruses from migratory birds to domestic birds increases the prevalence of those diseases that cause severe economic and public health concerns in Bangladesh. The study focused on active surveillance of major respiratory viral pathogens in migratory birds, molecular identification of the viruses, and their phylogenetic origin. To conduct this study, 850 environmental samples (830 fecal samples, 10 soil samples, and 10 water samples) were collected during three consecutive winter seasons from three divisions (Dhaka, Sylhet, and Mymensingh) and pooled according to the year of collection and locations, resulting in a total of 184 tested samples. Using gene-specific primers and probes in TaqMan-and SYBR Green-based RT-qPCR assays, the samples were screened for AIV and AvCoV, respectively. Out of the 184 pooled samples, 37 were found to be positive for these respiratory pathogens. Furthermore, out of the 37 (20.11%) positive respiratory pathogens, 11.96% were AIV (n = 22) and 8.15% were AvCoV (n = 15). For the first time in Bangladesh, AIV H4N2, H4N6, and AvCoVs have been found in fecal samples from migratory birds through surveillance. Phylogenetic analyses of the HA and NA genes of AIV and the polymerase gene (Orf 1) of AvCoV revealed that these strains share a close phylogenetic relationship with the isolates from wild birds in Europe and Asia. The Bangladeshi strains with Eurasian ancestry might pose a significant threat to migratory birds flying through the Asian flyways. They might also be a potential source of virus introduction and spread to poultry raised on land. These findings emphasize the significance of ongoing AIV and AvCoV surveillance in migratory birds in Bangladesh.

Antibiotic Resistance Pattern of Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus salivarius, and Enterococcus hirae Isolated from Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Tract in Commercial Broiler Chickens

Ever since antibiotics were discovered for the treatment of bacterial diseases, an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria has been noticed as an economic and public health concern with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. Antibiotic resistance in broiler chickens can be a great threat to public health. This research aimed to screen commercial poultry’s gastrointestinal and respiratory tract bacteria to observe the antibiotic resistance pattern. In this experiment, gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and respiratory tract (RT) bacteria were identified using 16s rRNA gene sequencing from broiler chickens in anaerobic conditions following a bile salt tolerance assay and an antibiotic susceptibility test. Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus salivarius, and Enterococcus hirae were identified as the isolates. The bacteria found in the gut had a modest degree of bile salt tolerance. The isolates were sensitive to amoxicillin, gentamicin, and streptomycin but resistant to tetracycline, levofloxacin, metronidazole, azithromycin, and erythromycin. This study ensures that the GIT and RT of broiler chicken is a hidden source of the isolated bacteria. A large part of this bacterial population is antibiotic-resistant and reported as a public health concern.

Expert insights on managing harmful algal blooms

Freshwater harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a global environmental, economic, social, and public health hazard. While there is an increasing understanding of the ecological considerations of HABs, there is limited understanding of human dimensions and management needs. We conducted semi-structured key informant interviews with 28 water managers and researchers to better understand how they perceive current management and to identify future management priorities in regard to HABs. For this study, we interviewed 31 key informants from three regions of the United States (New England, Ohio, and the Mountain West). We solicited insights across aspects of HABs management, including prevention, forecasting, monitoring, response, and communication. Nutrient management was the main consideration for the prevention of HAB events. Key informants noted that forecasting has the potential to be a valuable tool in the future but is not yet accurate enough at a local scale for widespread use. Monitoring was found to be implemented in varying ways across and even within the states and regions, with a need for more funding and standardization. HAB event responses vary greatly from chemical and physical treatments that suppress toxins to no-swim advisories, all with a mix of strengths and weaknesses. Finally, an increase in and improvement of communication efforts was identified as critical for reducing public health risks. These findings provide perceptions of current management practices and future plans while including opportunities to improve current freshwater HAB management efforts.

Constraints on Public Policy Design and Formulation: A Case Study on the Conservation of Natural Resources in Local Governments of the Amazonia, Peru

The high rate of depredation of forest resources causes major climatic changes that affect the economic activities and health of populations, plunging them into poverty and social problems. The state is responsible for dealing with these problems, because it has the technical, legal, and economic power to do so. This research aims to identify the factors that limit the design and formulation of public policies for the conservation of natural resources at the level of local district and provincial governments in Peru. For this study, we used qualitative methodology and non-probabilistic sampling, as well as techniques such as unstructured interviews, focus groups, and documentary review; moreover, for data analysis, we applied the theoretical saturation design in grounded theory. The results show that the conservation of natural resources is not positioned as a priority public policy in municipal administrations; furthermore, the organic units of natural resources suffer financial restrictions, and not because of a lack of budget availability, but because of a lack of will and decision-making capacity of authorities and civil servants, as well as a lack of coordination between the different national governments. It concludes that there are conflicts of interest in public policy making, with abuse of power and corruption predominating. Furthermore, the complexity of addressing sustainability criteria and the inability to confront the environmental crisis mean that international summits and national norms are attenuated in the face of the problems of environmental degradation. Deforestation should be considered a major public priority problem because of its environmental, economic, social, and health impacts. These problems require a holistic approach that combines local, national, and international policies and fosters effective and participatory governance.

Genetic Diversity of Local Chili (Capsicum annum L.) from West Sumatra Indonesia Based on Inter Simple Sequences Repeat (ISSR) Markers

Capsicum annum L. is the most widely cultivated species due to its economic importance and health benefits. West Sumatra is one of the largest chili pepper producers in Indonesia, so it has a lot of local chili genetic resources. There is inadequate information on the genetic diversity of local chilies in West Sumatra. The purpose of this research was to analyze the genetic diversity of 23 genotypes of chili pepper from West Sumatra amplified with 10 markers of ISSR. The material used was leaves from 23 genotypes of West Sumatra’s local chili which are collections of the Agriculture Faculty, Andalas University, Padang, West Sumatra. The results showed that ISSR markers (ISSR primer 12, ISSR UBC, and ISSR 3M) had produced 84 polymorphic DNA bands with a total polymorphic percentage of 61.45%. The dendrogram based on 10 ISSR markers showed that the 23 chili genotypes were retrieved into three main groups (I, II, III, IV) with genetic similarity coefficient values ranging from 0.67 to 0.97 or a diversity of features of 0.03–0.33 (30%). Group I consisted of 1 genotype, group II consisted of 3 genotypes, and group III consisted of 14 genotypes. Kopay chili (G20) has a large genetic distance compared to the other genotypes, while Lolai and Gero chilies have a very high similarity. This genetic diversity information can be used as a basis for generating crosses between genotypes in a breeding program. The farther the genetic distance will produce a high population diversity, the greater the chance of getting superior hybrids. Keywords: Capsicum annum, ISSR, local chili, West Sumatra

Economic Indicators And Stock Market Performance: An Analysis Of GDP, Unemployment Rates, And Inflation

This research paper delves into the intricate relationship between three fundamental economic indicators—Gross Domestic Product (GDP), unemployment rates, and inflation—and their consequential effects on stock market performance. The primary objective of this study is to elucidate how variations in these indicators influence investor behavior and, subsequently, stock market trends. The research employs a dual methodological approach: quantitative analysis of historical economic and stock market data, and qualitative examination through case studies of notable economic events. This research looks back in history for a pattern and correlation of the stock market's moves in relation to changes in various economic indicators. For instance, it probes how changes in the GDP growth rate have their effect on investor confidence and, in turn, stock market valuation. It also looks at how fluctuations in the rate of unemployment lead to variations in market performance, as this generally indicates economic health and spending on the part of consumers. It also tends to focus on the relationship between inflation and return in the stock market, given influences on interest rates and corporate profits as a result of inflationary pressures. Besides data analysis, the study also makes use of case studies of vital periods in economies, such as the financial crisis of 2008 and the COVID-19 pandemic, to develop context and enrich the understanding of how these indicators interact within an extreme economic scenario. Such case studies bring understanding into the way investor sentiment and stock market performance respond to changes in GDP, unemployment, and inflation in real-world scenarios. These findings from this research indicate complex interdependencies between the series of economic indicators and stock market performance. For example, strong GDP growth is perceived in general to be associated with favorable stock market performance, whereas high inflation and increasing unemployment may soften or even exert negative effects. The study also emphasizes the role of investor sentiment and market psychology in amplifying or dampening the impacts of these economic indicators. In sum, this paper contributes to an integrated understanding of how GDP, unemployment rate, and inflation interact in shaping dynamics in the performance of the stock market. It thus provides an avenue through which both investors and policymakers, and economists who want to navigate or predict market movements in light of economic trends, draw useful guidance. The underlined idea herein is that instead of looking at separate economic parameters, it will be more relevant for any research work if several factors are considered together for better analytical reasoning on stock market performance.

Post-COVID pandemic: The new normal and aftermath

ABSTRACT Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unparalleled worldwide transformations, impacting all facets of human existence, including health systems, economies, societal norms, and individual behaviors. Aim: The goal is to comprehend the enduring alterations in public health strategies, economic recuperation processes, changes in work and education paradigms, and the psychological consequences for populations globally. Methods and Materials: This analysis uses a multidisciplinary approach by incorporating data from healthcare studies, economic reports, educational research, and psychological assessments. It aims to offer a comprehensive perspective on the world after the pandemic. Results: The findings suggest that the “New Normal” encompasses a wide range of changes, such as a greater dependence on digital technology, a transition toward remote work and learning, substantial modifications in global supply chains, and a revised outlook on health and wellness. The potential long-term consequences of these changes indicate that some may provide opportunities for innovation and expansion, whereas others present challenges that necessitate strategic planning and policy interventions. Conclusion: The aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic presents a critical moment for global leaders, policymakers, and individuals to navigate the complexities of a transformed world, emphasizing the need for resilience, adaptability, and a renewed commitment to collective well-being.

ZnSnO3 micro-polyhedrons with oxygen defects derived from rubidium incorporation for enhanced ethanol detection

Detecting ethanol in ambient air is of great significance in protection of ecological environment, human health and social economy. Herein, a strategy is adopted to substantially improve the gas sensing performance of the ZnSnO3 micro-polyhedrons through rubidium (Rb) doping. In this study, a series of ZnSnO3 micro-polyhedrons with different amounts of Rb doping were successfully synthesized through a typical hydrothermal procedure and air sintering. The sensor based on 2 mol% Rb-doped ZnSnO3 exhibits high response value (108) and rapid response/recover speed (20/8 s) to 100 ppm ethanol at 260 °C, as well as outstanding repeatability and stability. Combining theoretical calculations and various characterization techniques, the improved sensing property of the 2 mol% Rb-doped ZnSnO3 to ethanol gas can be ascribed to the large specific surface area and the abundant surface defects induced by Rb incorporation. We believe that this study opens up a new perspective for developing efficient and high-performance ethanol gas sensor.

Unveiling Immunological and Hematological Markers in COVID-19: Insights from a Clinical Study.

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the global health system and economies largely. Therefore, knowledge about the clinical and laboratory profiles of patients with COVID-19 would help in the management and prognosis of the disease. The immunological and hematological indices have emerged as critical determinants for the severity of the disease and the prognosis; however, association with COVID-19 is clouded. The present study is aimed to characterize the immunological and hematological profiles of patients with COVID-19 in correlation with the disease severity. The study included 1,019 polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed patients with COVID-19 who were classified into serious and nonserious groups, considering severity criteria. Clinical laboratory investigations included hematological, biochemical, and immunological parameters regarding leukocyte counts, hemoglobin levels, and inflammatory markers. Our analysis of immunological and hematological differences between serious and nonserious patients with COVID-19 indicates that serious cases reflected elevated levels of pro-inflammatory markers such as lactate dehydrogenase, C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, and ferritin, representing immune system dysregulation and systemic inflammation. Furthermore, in serious cases, discrepancies had also been noticed for many hematological parameters than nonserious ones, which also contained leukocyte count and hemoglobin level. Additionally, the CRP, D-dimer, blood urea nitrogen, alanine transaminase, and albumin levels could be independent predictors of COVID-19 severity by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Cutoff values for these biomarkers were defined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis defining optimal parameters for the risk stratification and prognostication. The current investigation provides a comprehensive understanding of immunological and hematological correlation with COVID-19 severity, refining clinical decision-making and therapeutic interventions to improve patient outcomes.

My Proposals to Promote “Healthy Aging,” as Advisor to the Minister of Health in My Country (Dreams of the Asia-Oceania International Association of Gerontology and Geriatrics e-TRaining in Gerontology and GERiatrics Trainees)

Abstract The accelerating pace of population aging in Asia poses significant challenges for health care and economies. As life expectancy increases and chronic diseases become more prevalent, understanding and addressing the healthcare needs of older adults is crucial. This review examines the key health issues affecting older adults in Asia, including nutritional status, mobility limitations, frailty, sarcopenia, mental, and cognitive health concerns. The authors conducted a mini-review of research on the health challenges faced by older adults in the region, drawing from a wide range of sources, including indexed and nonindexed journals and databases. The review highlights that aging in Asia is accompanied by a sharp rise in physical and mental health problems. While life expectancy in Asia has increased, many older adults experience declining physical and mental health, burdened by inadequate nutrition, frailty, and sarcopenia. Mental health issues, exacerbated by social isolation and limited access to services, are particularly prevalent in this population. The rapid pace of aging in Asia, coupled with the increased vulnerability of older adults and the lack of comprehensive national aging policies, highlight the region’s unpreparedness to address the challenges faced by older adults. This demands urgent actions. To ensure healthy aging, Asia must prioritize a comprehensive national policy that addresses physical and mental health, economic security, productive work, and social engagement. Investing early in the health of older adults, promoting healthy lifestyles, accessible and older adults’ friendly infrastructure, and integrated, holistic health care can reap long-term benefits, reducing healthcare burdens and improving quality of life.

A Markov cost-effectiveness modeling framework for evaluating wound dressings: A concept for practical implementation of economic evaluations in an informed dressing selection process

AimsExemplify the potential of using health economy modeling and simulations to support and optimize wound dressing purchasing decisions. Materials and methodsWe developed a Markov cost-effectiveness modeling framework fusing clinical and industry sources of healing and cost outcomes for evaluating dressings, focusing on polymeric membrane dressings compared to passive foam dressings without active inflammation modulation components. We calculated the wound care costs for patients with and without diabetes, as well as for infected and non-infected wounds, to illustrate the effectiveness of this model in supporting decision-making. ResultsThe model results demonstrated that polymeric membrane dressings reduce the cumulative treatment costs compared to passive foam dressings, due to fewer dressing changes and lower associated labor costs, regardless of the initial product price differences. ConclusionCost-effectiveness calculations should be performed in healthcare facilities to support purchasing decisions based on true cost analyses. Making purchasing decisions focusing on the dressing price alone may provide wrong estimates of the real cost differences.

Impact Analysis of Inflation on Social & Psychological Aspects in Nepal

This paper assesses the impact of inflation caused by the earthquake and the pandemic that took place in 2015 and 2019 respectively. Both of the natural disasters affected the economic health of Nepal adversely. The article has uncovered the repercussion of both the hazards in the social and psychological lives of Nepalese people. The major objective of the research has been to explore the implications of inflation in social and psychological aspects of the people in general and children in particular. The behaviors of children primarily in the downtrodden families have been found rude and anti-social because of their exposure to the hardships and challenges faced by their parents in the aftermath of the earthquake and the pandemic. The paper has been drafted based on the secondary resources. The method as used is the mixed research design as the article consists of both qualitative and quantitative data. The main finding of the research is that the government failed to do two things in the aftermath to address the social and psychological implications of the events. The first the government should have reformulated the policies to mitigate the inflation and the secondary it should have allocated a separate budget for the underprivileged communities so that they could come to normalcy in the aftermath.

A Study on Mental Health Problems faced by the People of the Coastal Areas of Uvari, Tamilnadu, due to their Living Conditions

This study explores the mental health challenges faced by people living in coastal areas due to their unique living conditions. Performance attainments relational to mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influences cognition, perception, behavior, and the management of stress, relationships, and decision-making. It involves aspects such as subjective well-being, self-efficacy, autonomy, competence, and self-actualization. This research explores how cultural differences, subjective assessments, and varying theoretical perspectives shape the definition and experience of mental health. The study focuses on the impact of climate change, natural disasters such as tsunamis high tidal impact on the shore line, and other environmental factors on the mental and economic health of coastal communities. However, it examines early signs of mental health issues, including sleep disturbances, work-stress and fatigue, further, assessing how these factors interplay with the economic challenges faced by residents in these vulnerable areas.

Climate change mitigation policy for planetary health equity? An automated content analysis of countries’ nationally determined contribution reports

Abstract Introduction This study examines the extent to which national governments discuss the social determinants of planetary health equity (SDPHE) within their Nationally Determined Contribution reports (NDCs) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. This is assessed relative to the frequency of discussion of economic factors and health outcomes, and how this varies between countries based on political, economic, and environmental factors.
Methods Using natural language processing, a dictionary-based automated content analysis was conducted of the frequency of terms within these reports. Correlation analyses examined the relationship between the frequency of dictionary categories and political, economic, and environmental variables to ascertain the role of contextual factors.
Results Overall, NDCs were found to feature a greater proportion of economic language compared to health outcome and SDPHE terms. Among the SDPHE, equity- and gender-related terms occurred most frequently. Correlations were identified primarily among high-income countries, that suggest moderate positive associations between levels of CO2 emissions per capita and per dollar of GDP and the use of economic terms, and a negative association of economic language with levels of democracy. Democracy was also positively associated with language related to social norms such as equity and justice, indicating potential scope for impact through democratic pressures.
Conclusion The relatively frequent use of economic frames in NDCs suggests that economic issues may receive more attention compared to the SDPHE. This analysis identifies potential enabling and constraining country-level factors for greater attention to the SDPHE in NDCs and more progressive climate change mitigation policymaking.