Education Campaigns Research Articles

From plate to waste: a cross-sectional study of food waste trends in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia

BackgroundFood waste is a global concern that needs special attention and urgent actions to reduce the amount of wasted food. This study aims to investigate the trend of food waste in Al Ahsa.MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study designed to analyze the factors associated with the generation of wasted food within Al Ahsa community.ResultsThe results showed that out of 257 participants, 82.9% were of Saudi nationality, 83.3% were females, 69.6% below 34 years and the family sizes mean was around 6. The majority of study participants were unemployed (62.3%), the employed ones were in healthcare field (56.4%). No significant gender differences was found in terms of other food waste-related variables. No significant association was found with age and occupation. Non-Saudi participants significantly report a lower frequency of wasting food and a higher rate of attitudes toward food waste sorting with p = 0.02 and p = 0.02, respectively. Working participants showed significant differences in terms of attitudes toward food waste sorting (p = 0.002), attitudes toward reducing food waste (p = 0.042), and the amount of food wasted per day (p = 0.010) when compared to those who are not working. Doctorate level of education exhibited significant (p = 0.002) attitudes toward food waste sorting and those who are in the commerce field of education had higher mean scores (M = 2.81, SD = 0.84) to reduce food waste. The cause of food waste was related to expiry date (61.1%). The common cause of wasting food when eating out or ordering online, was related to participants’ preference for trying a variety of dishes (40.1%). The participants adherent to home-cooked food during pandemic (mean 3.85, SD 1.40). Males reported a slightly higher impact of COVID-19 on their dietary habits when compared to females (p = 0.04). The majority of participants agreed that sharing food with neighbors decreases food waste (Mean = 3.96, SD = 1.32). Moreover, they do not throw food due to religious and cultural beliefs (Mean = 3.36, SD = 1.60).ConclusionCreating educational campaigns, promoting sustainable waste management and integrating technology to reduce food waste are recommended to achieve Saudi vision 2030.

Public attitudes toward the use of human induced pluripotent stem cells: insights from an Italian adult population

IntroductionHuman induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), derived from reprogrammed adult somatic cells, hold significant promise for disease modelling, personalized medicine, drug discovery, and regenerative therapies. Public awareness and understanding of hiPSCs are crucial for advancing research in this field. However, limited data exists on the general population’s knowledge and attitudes toward their use.MethodsThis study aimed to assess the awareness and perceptions of hiPSCs among Italian adults through a web-based survey conducted via the EUSurvey platform, using a snowball sampling approach. The survey included demographic information and mandatory questions on knowledge, awareness, and concerns regarding hiPSC technology, with responses collected on a 3-point scale. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-squared tests, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.ResultsOut of 1874 respondents, the majority were aged 18–35 years (40.5%), female (63.4%), and university-educated (67.2%). Among those familiar with hiPSCs (54.1%, n = 1,201), 95.3% expressed willingness to donate blood samples for hiPSC generation to treat individuals with incurable diseases. Concerns about current research and therapeutic applications were low (less than 20%), but nearly half of the respondents were hesitant or opposed to the use of hiPSCs in animal experiments and their commercialization by pharmaceutical companies. Increased skepticism was observed in older, less educated, religious individuals, and those who were not blood donors. Overall, the Italian public shows strong support for hiPSC-based therapies, though reservations exist around specific ethical and economic issues.DiscussionThese findings underscore the importance of addressing public concerns through targeted educational campaigns, not only in Italy but globally, to foster a more informed and supportive environment for advancing stem cell research and its clinical applications worldwide. Similar studies have been conducted in Japan, the United States, and Sweden, but there remains a need for all countries to engage with their citizens to better understand how stem cell research is perceived locally. Such engagement is crucial for guiding international strategies in personalized medicine and regenerative therapies, ensuring that emerging technologies are met with both ethical integrity and public trust.

The Validity of Impressions as a Media Dose Metric in a Tobacco Public Education Campaign Evaluation: Observational Study.

Evaluation research increasingly needs alternatives to target or gross rating points to comprehensively measure total exposure to modern multichannel public education campaigns that use multiple channels, including TV, radio, digital video, and paid social media, among others. Ratings data typically only capture delivery of broadcast media (TV and radio) and excludes other channels. Studies are needed to validate objective cross-channel metrics such as impressions against self-reported exposure to campaign messages. This study aimed to examine whether higher a volume of total media campaign impressions is predictive of individual-level self-reported campaign exposure in California. We analyzed over 3 years of advertisement impressions from the California Tobacco Prevention Program's statewide tobacco education campaigns from August 2019 through December 2022. Impressions data varied across designated market areas (DMAs) and across time. These data were merged to individual respondents from 45 waves of panel survey data of Californians aged 18-55 years (N=151,649). Impressions were merged to respondents based on respondents' DMAs and time of survey completion. We used logistic regression to estimate the odds of respondents' campaign recall as a function of cumulative and past 3-month impressions delivered to each respondent's DMA. Cumulative impressions were positively and significantly associated with recall of each of the Flavors Hook Kids (odds ratio [OR] 1.15, P<.001), Dark Balloons and Apartment (OR 1.20, P<.001), We Are Not Profit (OR 1.36, P<.001), Tell Your Story (E-cigarette, or Vaping, product use Associated Lung Injury; OR 1.06, P<.05), and Thrown Away and Little Big Lies (OR 1.05, P<.01) campaigns. Impressions delivered in the past 3 months were associated with recall of the Flavors Hook Kids (OR 1.13, P<.001), Dark Balloons and Apartment (OR 1.08, P<.001), We Are Not Profit (OR 1.14, P<.001), and Thrown Away and Little Big Lies (OR 1.04, P<.001) campaigns. Past 3-month impressions were not significantly associated with Tell Your Story campaign recall. Overall, magnitudes of these associations were greater for cumulative impressions. We visualize recall based on postestimation predicted values from our multivariate logistic regression models. Variation in cumulative impressions for California Tobacco Prevention Program's long-term multichannel tobacco education campaign is predictive of increased self-reported campaign recall, suggesting that impressions may be a valid proxy for potential campaign exposure. The use of impressions for purposes of evaluating public education campaigns may help address current methodological limitations arising from the fragmented nature of modern multichannel media campaigns.

Toward Zero Waste: Sustainable Practices in Waste Management at ETUT

The paper discusses Oguz Han Engineering and Technology University of Turkmenistan's (ETUT) waste management initiatives, particularly its Zero Waste Program aimed at minimizing waste generation and promoting sustainability across campus. Strategies include educational campaigns, eco-friendly purchasing, and collaboration with vendors for waste reduction, reuse, and recycling. ETUT employs structured waste categorization, centralized repositories for reusable items, and a recycling plant with advanced sorting machinery. Innovative methods like paper recycling and composting are used, along with exploring plastic repurposing into fibers and fuel. Organic waste management includes composting, notably reducing landfill waste. Inorganic waste reduction involves paper recycling, plastic conversion, and electronic repair and donation. The program emphasizes waste reduction through recycling and reuse, including upcycling workshops. Hazardous waste from laboratories is managed with local authorities for safe disposal, while relevant associations for environmental safety oversee sewage disposal. These strategies highlight ETUT's commitment to sustainability, positioning it as a regional leader in responsible waste management.

Rural versus urban healthcare through the lens of health behaviors and access to primary care: a post-hoc analysis of the Romanian health evaluation survey

BackgroundWorldwide, rural populations are recognized to be exposed to increased health challenges due to their living and working environment, socioeconomic status, and access to health services. According to the Romanian Country Health Profile 2023, approximately 46% of all deaths recorded in Romania in 2019 could be attributed to behavioral risk factors such as tobacco smoking, dietary risks, alcohol consumption and low physical activity. No data on rural versus urban areas are available to date, and research is needed to document health inequalities, identify barriers to health services, and explore solutions.MethodsThis study is an analysis of data collected during the Health Evaluation Survey carried out by the National Institute of Public Health in 2022 and aimed to reveal differences in health risk factors between rural and urban areas. The analysis was carried out under the methodological framework of the Health Evaluation Survey 2022, which is coordinated by the National Institute of Public Health.ResultsOur study’s objectively measured data revealed that the overall health profile of rural communities is characterized by lower education levels, lower incomes, and higher binge drinking rates than those of their urban counterparts. Additionally, rural inhabitants more often have high blood pressure, are more overweight and obese (per body mass index measurements) and have higher fasting plasma glucose. The health profile of the urban population revealed higher education levels and greater proportions of people with adequate monthly income, people with daily alcohol consumption, people who smoke, and people with hypercholesterolemia. Access to primary health care evaluated through proxy indicators was lower in rural areas but was relatively good overall.ConclusionsOur analysis of the health profile of rural communities revealed a greater prevalence of obesity and overweight, especially among women, and an increased prevalence of heavy drinking among men. Access to primary health care evaluated through proxy indicators is lower in rural areas but is relatively good overall. Lower education levels and the possibility of lower health literacy underpin the need for targeted health education campaigns. Sustainable strategies for rural health need to be identified, especially in the field of health promotion and disease prevention programs.Trial registrationThis study is observational research involving human participants where no interventions were applied to the study population.

Isoniazid Preventive Therapy Adherence and Its Predictors Among Soldiers on HIV Antiretroviral Therapy at a General Military Hospital in Uganda.

Uganda faces a significant dual challenge with tuberculosis (TB), ranking among these countries most affected by the disease worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) for managing latent TB. However, the adherence to IPT in military settings remains under-explored in Uganda. This study aims to assess IPT adherence and identify its predictors among soldiers undergoing HIV antiretroviral therapy at a General Military Hospital in Uganda. We conducted a cross-sectional study involving 300HIV-positive soldiers receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at the General Military Hospital in Uganda. Due to the small sample size, we employed a consecutive sampling method. We utilized descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression model for prevalence of IPT adherence and associated factors respectively. Among the 300 clients, the prevalence of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) was 94.7%, 95% CI: 92.1-97.2; adherence to IPT was associated with being aged ≥ 50 years, with a prevalence ratio (PR) of 1.061 and 95% CI: 1.01-1.12; being married, with a PR of 1.438, 95% CI:1.12-1.84; having social support, with a PR of 1.498, 95% CI:1.17-1.92; and having social support played a significant role in IPT adherence among married participants, with a PR of 0.817,95% CI:0.72-0.93. To enhance adherence to isoniazid preventive therapy among young soldiers with HIV, targeted interventions are crucial, as older individuals tend to adhere better. Implementing marital support programs and strengthening community engagement can bolster adherence through social support networks. Educational campaigns should focus on the importance of IPT, while regular follow-ups will ensure effective monitoring and support. Further research is needed to explore how social support can mitigate stigma associated with HIV. The findings highlight the importance of improving IPT adherence among married soldiers and suggest that this approach could be effective in other low-resource settings.

The General Public as well as Physiotherapists Evaluate Spinal Flexion as Dangerous Regardless of Their Own Low Back Pain History

BackgroundMaladaptive fear of movement in individuals with low back pain may be associated with worse clinical outcomes. ObjectiveTo explore beliefs about the perceived dangers regarding different spinal postures within the Czech Republic. DesignExploratory cross-sectional study including physiotherapists and members of the general public. MethodsSelf-reported perceived safety/danger of “straight” and “flexed” spinal postures regarding 1) sitting, 2) lifting of light and 3) heavy object from the floor based on three pairs of photographs was measured using numeric rating scales (0-10, safe to dangerous) without any given context and in the context of low back pain. The sum of differences between the ratings of flexed and straight postures were used to calculate Bending Safety Beliefs Thermometer (BSBThermometer) total score potentially ranging -60‒60 (higher values indicates evaluation of flexed spinal postures as more dangerous in comparison to straight postures). Results760 participants were included in the analysis. The mean BSBThermometer total score was 31.1 (SD 16.1) and higher scores were positively associated with being women (b=14.8, 95% CI [9.9-19.8]); non-medical profession (b=24.7, 95% CI [15.2-34.2]); age (b=0.38, 95% CI [0.16-0.6]; and their interactions. There was no significant association with current low back pain status or history of low back pain. ConclusionsOn average, participants evaluated “flexed” spinal postures as significantly more dangerous when compared with “straight” spinal postures, with only subgroups of physiotherapists scoring lower than the general public. Clinically, these beliefs could be targeted by individualized education, exposure-based interventions and public campaigns; however, further research is required.

Women's attitudes towards intimate partner violence in Guyana: a population-based study

Intimate partner violence (IPV) against women is a global health issue and a breach of human rights. However, the literature lacks understanding of how socioeconomic and geographic disparities influence women's attitudes toward IPV in Guyana over time. This study aimed to assess trends in women's attitudes about IPV in Guyana. Data from three nationally representative surveys from 2009, 2014 to 2019 were analysed. The prevalence of women's attitudes about IPV was assessed, specifically in response to going out without telling their partners, neglecting their children, arguing with their partner, refusing sex with their partner, or burning food prepared for family meals. A series of stratified subgroup analyses were also completed. We assessed trends in IPV using the slope index of inequality (SII) and the concentration index of inequality (CIX). We used multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression to assess factors associated with women's attitudes justifying IPV. The prevalence of women's attitudes justifying IPV for any of the five reasons declined from 16.4% (95% CI: 15.1-17.8) in 2009 to 10.8% (95% CI: 9.7-12.0) in 2019. Marked geographic and socioeconomic inequalities were observed among subgroups. The SII for any of the five reasons decreased from-20.02 to-14.28, while the CIX remained constant over time. Key factors associated with women's attitudes about IPV were area of residence, sex of the household head, marital status, respondent's level of education, wealth index quintile, and the frequency of reading newspapers/magazines. From 2009 to 2019, Guyana was able to reduce women's attitudes justifying IPV against women by 34.1% and shortened subgroup inequalities. However, the prevalence remained high in 2019, with persisted inequalities among subgroups. Effective strategies, including the use of media to raise awareness, promotion of community-based approaches, and educational campaigns focusing on geographic and socioeconomic disparities, are essential for continuing to reduce the prevalence of IPV and associated inequalities. The study was funded in part by the National Institutes of Health, Fogarty International Center grant number D43TW012189.

The Surge in Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Rejection in Nigeria.

In October 2023, Nigeria integrated the single-dose human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its routine immunization program, aiming to protect 7.7 million girls aged 9 to 14 years. This milestone in the fight against HPV-related cancers, especially cervical cancer, faces significant challenges due to high vaccine rejection rates driven by misinformation and cultural barriers. Despite the vaccine's proven safety and efficacy, uptake remains low. This communication highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive public health education campaign to address these barriers. Proposed strategies include leveraging digital health technologies, integrating HPV education into school curricula, training community health workers, engaging religious and cultural leaders, and launching media campaigns featuring personal narratives. Implementing these evidence-based interventions is crucial for dispelling myths, misconceptions, and skepticism surrounding HPV vaccines. This will enhance acceptance and uptake, ultimately reducing cervical cancer mortality in Nigeria.

SUSTAINED POSITIVE PRACTICE CHANGE AFTER TARGETED EDUCATION IN THE MANAGEMENT OF OVARIAN TORSION

BackgroundFailure to perform ovarian conservation surgery (OCS) for patients who present with adnexal torsion was recognized as a practice gap by the American Pediatric Surgical Association (APSA) in 2017. A targeted educational campaign was conducted to promote detorsion and ovarian conservation surgery as the standard of care for ovarian torsion. We evaluated the practice change that has occurred for pediatric and adolescent patients with ovarian torsion from 2012-2022. MethodsUsing the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Safety and Quality Improvement Project-Pediatrics (NSQIP-P) Participant Use Files from 2012-2022, we compared surgical treatment types during the time periods that encompassed the targeted educational period. ResultsA total of 2,249 patients (70%) underwent OCS surgery and 980 (30%) patients underwent salpingectomy and/or oophorectomy (SO). Patients who were treated with OCS were older (12.4 [SD 3.6] vs. 11.4 [SD 4.8] years, p < 0.01). Patients were more likely to be treated with SO if they were Black (11 vs. 15%, p<0.01) or obese (28 vs. 33%, p<0.01). From 2012-2017, 42% of patients underwent OCS, compared to 76% in 2018-2022 (p <0.01). A mixed effect analysis comparing year-over-year rates of SO across pediatric surgeons and gynecologic surgeons showed a statistically significant difference in rates across specialty and time (p<0.01), with pediatric surgeons performing fewer SOs. ConclusionIn the treatment of ovarian torsion in pediatric and adolescent patients, we demonstrated successful adoption and sustained implementation of practice improvement coincident with the introduction of a comprehensive educational initiative. TYPE OF STUDYRetrospective cohort LEVEL OF EVIDENCEIV

Prospective Attitudes Towards Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine in Pregnant Women in Greece

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common respiratory pathogen with high morbidity and mortality, especially in children under two years of age. Severe RSV infection poses a significant threat to healthcare systems, making vaccination an utmost need. In August 2023, the U.S. FDA approved an RSV maternal vaccine to prevent lower respiratory tract disease (LRTD) in infants throughout their first six months of life. This cross-sectional survey was designed to evaluate pregnant women’s willingness to receive the vaccine during pregnancy. An anonymous survey was administered from April 2023 to December 2023 to pregnant women aged above 16 years old attending gynecology wards of randomly selected public and private hospitals in Crete. The primary outcome was the intention to receive the vaccine. Univariable and multivariable analyses were carried out to identify factors associated with the intention to get vaccinated. Questionnaires were distributed to a sample of 335 pregnant females who agreed to participate in this study. The intention to get vaccinated against RSV was positively associated with educational level, the presence of school-age children, RSV infection awareness, intention to get routine pregnancy vaccines according to the National Immunization Program (NIP), and previous vaccination against COVID-19. The majority of pregnant females were not familiar with the term RSV and the upcoming vaccine. An educational campaign regarding RSV infection and its vaccine is required to improve women’s perceptions and to support healthcare workers in promoting it upon its availability in Greece.

An Initial Study on the Awareness of Digital Currency Among Youth

In the past two decades, the digital landscape has witnessed the emergence of digital currencies. These digital currencies, lacking physical form, facilitate online payments and direct Internet transactions for goods and services without the need for traditional banks or intermediaries. Despite the increasing popularity of digital currencies, a notable challenge persists due to the widespread lack of understanding and awareness, especially in developing countries. Nonetheless, this obstacle can be overcome through directed educational and awareness campaigns. As a result, an initial study into youth awareness of digital currencies, also known as cryptocurrencies in this article, has been carried out. This initial study on awareness surveys respondents' experiences with and trust in cryptocurrencies. A survey was conducted by distributing an online questionnaire, employing a stratified sampling method, resulting in 80 responses from youth in the Northern states of Malaysia. The survey results indicate that 39% of the respondents had less than one year of experience using cryptocurrencies, while 27% reported no prior experience. Despite the limited experience of most respondents with cryptocurrencies, the survey findings imply that most respondents trust the investment benefits of cryptocurrencies. In conclusion, the importance of ongoing research endeavours, particularly within Malaysia, cannot be understated in comprehensively understanding the factors that influence the utilisation of cryptocurrencies.

Legal Protection of Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Industry: A Review of Legal Developments and Implementation Challenges

This research aims to understand the Legal Protection of Intellectual Property Rights in the Digital Industry: A Review of Legal Developments and Implementation Challenges.The literature study will also include a review of relevant legal literature, especially relating to intellectual property protection in the digital era. In addition, legal sources related to IPR in the digital era are also an important basis for this analysis, ensuring a deep understanding of the existing regulatory framework. By utilizing the latest literature and relevant legal sources, this research can provide a comprehensive understanding of the challenges, trends and solutions in protecting IPR amidst the dynamics of digital technology. Research results Legal protection of intellectual property rights (IPR) in the digital era is a complex and vital issue that requires a holistic approach. Challenges include copyright infringement, data security, and global competition for patents and trademarks. Strong and effective regulations are needed to address these challenges without stifling innovation and economic growth. Awareness of the importance of intellectual property rights must be increased through extensive educational campaigns and programs by increasing their understanding of copyright, patents, trademarks and industrial designs, individuals will play a greater role in respecting and protecting intellectual property rights in the digital era.

Driving Thailand healthcare communication policy on e-cigarettes through social network analysis

E-cigarettes pose a significant public health concern, particularly for youth and young adults. Policymaking in this area is complicated by changing consumption patterns, diverse user demographics, and dynamic online and offline communities. This study uses social network analytics to examine the social dynamics and communication patterns related to e-cigarette use. We analyzed data from various social media platforms, forums, and online communities, which included both advocacy for e-cigarettes as a safer smoking alternative and opposition due to health risks. Our findings inform targeted healthcare policy interventions, such as educational campaigns tailored to specific network clusters, regulations based on user interaction and influence patterns, and collaborations with key influencers to spread accurate health information.

Archetypes and change in wildfire risk perceptions, behaviours and intentions among adults in Tasmania, Australia

Background Anthropogenic climate change globally increases wildfire risk. Understanding how wildfire threats impact community-wide risk perceptions and response options will critically inform resilience education strategies. Aim To gain an increased understanding of wildfire risk perceptions and self-evacuation intentions among residents in the wildfire-prone state of Tasmania, Australia. Methods We co-designed survey questions with stakeholders from emergency management, health and community recovery, using a computer-aided telephone interview to survey residents over 18 years of age. Numerical classification analysis, linear regression and descriptive statistics were used to analyse survey data. Results We identified four archetypes – the ‘immediate leaver’, ‘prepared stayer’, ‘unprepared leaver’ and ‘informed leaver’, each with distinct sociodemographic characteristics. Key variables were gender, age, location and income, with women most likely to leave and lower-income householders from rural areas most likely to stay. Previous wildfire experience and owning a home were significantly associated with increased preparedness actions. Compared to 2016, we found a significant increase in the proportion of residents intending to leave their property, with rural men least likely and urban women most likely to leave. Implications Recent education campaigns have likely driven increases in wildfire threat-related self-evacuation, yet the existence of distinct archetypes argues for more tailored messaging and education programs.

Assessing the efficacy of an educational video on stroke knowledge in Lebanon: a single-arm interventional study

ObjectiveThis study aimed to assess the public’s knowledge of stroke before and after viewing an educational video about stroke risk factors, preventive measures, and alarming signs.MethodsA single-arm interventional study was conducted in Lebanon using a 3-minute video-based education about stroke. A pre- and post-structured questionnaire compared the level of knowledge about stroke.ResultsThe study included 685 participants. Knowledge of stroke, risk factors, warning signs, treatment, and preventive measures significantly increased post-educational video sessions. A higher baseline knowledge score was associated with a family history of stroke (Beta = 1.76) and being a healthcare professional (Beta = 3.35). Participants between 25 and 34 years (Beta=-1.39) and those with a high risk of stroke (Beta=-1.03) were significantly associated with a lower knowledge score.ConclusionThis study demonstrated the effectiveness of a video-based educational tool to raise awareness about stroke. Short, targeted audio-visual resources using lay language can convey health education messages and influence behavioral changes. The community can benefit from a large-scale educational campaign that targets different socio-economic statuses to enhance knowledge of stroke and save lives.

IMPORTANCE OF INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEMS ON DETECTION AND PREVENTION OF FRAUD IN COMMERCIAL BANKS OF NEPAL

This research aims to study the importance of internal control systems to detection and prevention of fraud in commercial banks in Nepal. Advanced authentication techniques, vigilant monitoring for questionable activity, frequent staff education and awareness campaigns, and robust encryption for confidential information are all part of the process of identifying and preventing fraud. Effective internal control mechanisms are essential to the identification and aberrance of fraud in financial organizations. This study used descriptive research design to interpret the data. Using simple random sampling Ten commercial banks were selected as sample out of total Twenty commercial banks. Three level staff officer, manager, and executive were chosen on the study. Structured questionnaire was distributed to Fifty respondents but only 48 were collected and used in the study. Chi square test was applied to analyze the data. Findings of this study found that fraud in the organization is done by concealed hand and inefficient allocation of duties and authorities can not detect and prevent the fraud in commercial banks in Nepal. To detect and prevent the fraud the commercial banks need to apply effective internal control systems, allocate the duties and authorities in systematic way.

From legislation to actual health service: evaluation of health provisions in the disability law of Ghana by adolescents with mobility and visual impairments and their families

BackgroundDespite Ghana’s Persons with Disability Act, 2006 (Act 715) making provisions for access to healthcare services for adolescents with disabilities and their families, a corpus of literature has reported that persons with disabilities continue to face challenges in accessing healthcare services. However, the voices of adolescents with disabilities and their families are very scarce in such discourse. This study explored the experiences of adolescents with disabilities and their families in accessing healthcare services as per the provisions described in Ghana’s Act 715.MethodsThis study involved 45 participants, including 25 adolescents with disabilities and 20 family members from a municipality in Ghana. Employing a qualitative descriptive design, semi-structured interviews were conducted which was then analyzed thematically and interpreted using Critical Disability Theory.ResultsThe study identified two major categories of barriers to healthcare access: environmental (socio-economic difficulties, poor built environment, unavailability of rehabilitation services) and systemic (cultural beliefs, poor support at healthcare facilities and inadequate healthcare legislative provisions for families of children with disabilities). Despite legal provisions for free healthcare, participants faced significant financial barriers, with specialist services often not covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme.ConclusionsThe study calls for policy adjustments to fully cover specialist care under Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme, establishment of local-level health assessment and resource centers, educational campaigns to change cultural perceptions, and training of healthcare workers to promote quality access to healthcare.

Psychological barriers in children: an exploratory study on Dengue transmission using an adapted DIPB scale.

Dengue is an arboviral infection found in tropical and subtropical regions transmitted by hematophagous mosquitoes from the genus Aedes spp. and responsible for millions of cases every year. Public campaigns and educational curriculum are designed to educate people, including children. However, what has been reported is that many decide not to follow these guidelines, even though they allegedly know what has to be done. To understand this phenomenon, this study aims to identify psychological barriers behind the adoption of pro-environmental behaviors that seek to reduce Aedes aegypti's population. For that, middle school students participated on two studies responsible for (1) adapting the Dragons of Inaction Psychological Barrier (DIPB) scale to the target group (n = 150) and then (2) testing it on a larger group (n = 449). In the exploratory factor analysis, Bartlett correlation (p < 0.001), Cronbach's alpha (0.83), and KMO analysis (overall MSA = 0.84) showed that data was suited for factor analysis. Five factors were retained by Kaiser Criterion and scree test (i.e., Conflicting goals and unnecessary changes-α 0.76, Interpersonal relations-α 0.72, Conflicting goals and lacking knowledge-α 0.58, Tokenism-α 0.73, and Tokenism toward the government-α 0.66). After that, the scale was tested across 11 different schools, where students also answered a questionnaire about the mosquito. Results suggested that the factors Conflicting goals and lacking knowledge and Tokenism toward the government presented a higher level of agreement for all students (means: 2.6 and 2.12 out of five, respectively). Those who scored higher in the mosquito's questionnaire had factors Conflicting goals and unnecessary change and Interpersonal relations inhibited when compared to others (p < 0.05). These results suggests that future educational campaigns should build different actions that focuses on addressing both internal and external factors, creating a mosaic of projects, with different goals, each aiming different environmental challenges.

Factors associated with utilization of oral health services among adults aged 18–70 years in Lira district, Northern Uganda: a community based cross-sectional study

BackgroundUtilization of oral health services is a global public health challenge. Low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected. Uganda is one of the low- and middle-income countries where only 4% of the population has access to oral health services. Northern Uganda is one of the regions in the country with limited information about oral health utilization.ObjectiveTo assess factors associated with utilization of oral health services among adults aged 18–70 years in Lira district, Northern Uganda.MethodsThis was a quantitative cross-sectional study conducted in Lira District. Multistage sampling was used to select 576 respondents. Data was collected using a researcher-administered structured questionnaire that was adopted, modified, and pretested. Data was analyzed at three levels, including univariate, bivariate, and multivariate at 0.05 significance level.ResultsOf the 634 respondents, 576 responded, giving a 90.9% response rate. Results show that utilization of oral health services was 20.5% (118) among adults aged 18–70 years in 6 months. Predictors of utilization of oral services among this age group are: having not attended any formal education (AOR = 0.2, 95%CI 0.06–0.62), having poor attitudes towards oral health services (AOR = 0.55, 95%CI 0.34–0.89), having cultural influence on the utilization of the oral health services (AOR = 4.84, 95% CI 2.77–8.43), accessing the services from private not-for-profit facilities (AOR = 4.67, 95% CI 1.79–12.16), being un sure of the availability of the equipment used (AOR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.18–0.9), and availability of friendly services (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI 1.12–5.50).Conclusions and recommendationsUtilization of oral health services is low in Lira district, with only 2 in 10 of the adults aged 18-70years of age utilizing oral health services in 6 months. To improve utilization, targeted health education campaigns should address cultural barriers and attitudes, while ensuring that public health facilities are better equipped and provide more user-friendly services.