Education Campaigns Research Articles

Becoming Hand Hygiene Heroes: implementation of an infection prevention and control campaign for patient and family hospital safety

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that hand hygiene is key in preventing healthcare-associated infections. Patients and families are understudied targets for infection prevention and control practices. Previous campaigns to change hand hygiene behavior have been effective, but often face systemic challenges with implementation. MethodsThe “Hand Hygiene Heroes” educational campaign was developed to improve patient and family hand hygiene at two tertiary care pediatric and obstetrics hospitals. Its multiple phases included visual materials, tailored activities for nine hospital units, and long-term evaluation during a two-year period. Hand hygiene rates among patients/families and healthcare workers were measured at baseline and throughout the campaign via direct observation. ResultsOverall, hand hygiene significantly increased for both patients/families (OR 1.82, p 0.041) and healthcare workers (OR 2.15, p <0.001) after campaign initiation. However, individual units had varying degrees of sustainment on follow-up evaluations. DiscussionDuration of intervention, activity simplicity, active participation, and resource availability may affect success of campaign initiatives. Positive prognostic factors included mixed leadership support from administration and front-line workers, pre-determined sustainability plans, and tailored activities by target audience. ConclusionsImplementation of hospital educational campaigns can be resource-intensive but can positively impact patient and family hand hygiene.

Prevalence of knowledge and awareness about Helicobacter pylori infection among urban population of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

IntroductionThis cross-sectional study investigates the prevalence of knowledge and awareness of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection among the urban population of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The study is motivated by the need to understand the specific demographic segments within the urban setting and their awareness levels of this prevalent bacterial infection affecting the digestive system. MethodologyThe cross-sectional study, employing a purposive sampling method and involving 840 participants from major cities in the KSA, utilized a structured survey questionnaire to gather data on demographic factors, awareness levels, attitudes, and experiences related to H. pylori infection, with subsequent statistical analysis and adherence to ethical guidelines for participant confidentiality and privacy protection. ResultThe study involved 840 participants from major cities, revealing that 59.16% were aware of H. pylori. Demographic variations included higher participation from Jeddah and Riyadh, with the majority being females aged 18-25, Saudi nationals, and individuals with undergraduate education. About 57.02% reported experiencing suspected H. pylori symptoms, and 49.16% had prior infections, with varying severity. Hesitancy toward screening (42.61%), but 72.97% believed in preventability. Limited awareness of treatments (15.35%) and identification of factors like water and food were noted. Participants perceived the seriousness of H. pylori in the mid-range (5 to 7). ConclusionThe findings shed light on variations in awareness, knowledge gaps, and attitudes, emphasizing the need for targeted public health interventions, educational campaigns, and policy measures to address the challenges associated with H. pylori infections in urban areas.

Asia Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AOFOG)'s efforts in the cervical cancer elimination program in the Asia-Pacific.

Cervical cancer poses a significant health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where access to screening and treatment remains limited. Asia Oceania Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology (AOFOG)'s response, guided by the World Health Organization's global strategy, emphasizes three key targets: achieving high HPV vaccination coverage among girls, ensuring widespread screening with high-performance tests, and guaranteeing timely treatment for precancerous and cancerous lesions. AOFOG supports member countries through initiatives such as educational campaigns, guidelines development, and collaboration with local and international partners. Variations in screening methods across AOFOG member countries reflect diverse socioeconomic contexts and healthcare infrastructures, ranging from HPV testing in countries like Australia and Malaysia to cytology and visual inspection methods in others. Innovations such as HPV self-testing and AI-enhanced screening are emerging to improve accessibility and accuracy, addressing barriers like stigma and resource scarcity. Despite challenges, AOFOG remains committed to reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality through coordinated regional efforts, aiming for equitable access to preventive measures and treatment across the diverse landscape of the Asia-Pacific region.

Determinants and levels of depression among young adult patients with epilepsy: a cross-sectional study in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Tamilnadu, India

Background: People with epilepsy tend to have more psychological problems, including anxiety and depression. Similarly, a three times higher risk of premature death was prevailed (or expected) in people with epilepsy than that in the general population. The main objective of this study is to analyze the determinants and the levels of depression in young adult patients with epilepsy. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care medical hospital and research center, in Chennai, Tamilnadu. Forty-one young adults aged 18–25 years with a diagnosis of epilepsy willing to participate were included based on inclusive criteria. A general information questionnaire and Zung self-rating depression scale (SRDS) were used to analyze the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews and evaluated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software to test the P-value significance. Results: 39.0% of patients felt downhearted or blue most of the time. The majority of male (44.4%) and female (85.8%) patients stated that they were in moderate depression (the score range was from 60 to 69). There was an association between variables of age groups, family income, number of comorbidities, and last episode of seizure with the level of depression among young adult patients significant at, P-value &lt; 0.01. Conclusion: This study revealed that to remove the stigma of epilepsy, raising awareness in society and educational campaigns about epilepsy may be helpful. Thus, efforts should be undertaken to control seizures, reduce depression, and improve the overall quality of life of young adult patients.

First-aid knowledge and practices towards patients with epileptic seizures among the dental students in Saudi Arabia – A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: Dental care of patients with epilepsy and seizures must be performed by dentists who are familiar with these disorders. Improper training and incapability to manage medical emergencies, including epileptic seizures, may cause thoughtful consequences and legal actions. Therefore, dental students must have a proper knowledge of the disease and its consequences. They should have the ability to provide first-aid measures helping a patient experiencing an epileptic seizure in their clinics. This study aims to evaluate the first-aid knowledge and practices towards patients with epileptic seizures among the dental students in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting dental students in Saudi Arabia from 15 September 2022 to 15 December 2022 using convenience sampling. An online questionnaire was sent to the students via social media platforms for data collection. The data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Results: Of the 499 dental students included, 154 (30.86%) students had ever seen an epileptic patient in the clinics. About 16% of students did not know about performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on patients. The majority (66.5%) would call the ambulance after the patient’s seizure stops. About 82% of students prefer to call an ambulance if the patients face difficulty breathing or waking up after the seizure. More than 60% of students were taking precautions before treating an epilepsy patient. About 58.5% of the students were using local anaesthesia for an epilepsy patient. Nearly 41.9% do not have the confidence to treat an epilepsy patient. About 28.0% would swipe the vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) magnet over the left side of the chest. Of 154 students, who had ever seen epileptic patients, the majority (68.8%) refused to treat patients if they observe noncompliance with medication and follow-up among the patients who had any recent illness or seizures (16.2%). Conclusion: The undergraduate dental students had an intermediate knowledge regarding epilepsy and epileptic seizure first aid. However, some students lacked the confidence to deal with the epileptic cases in their clinics. Educational campaigns on epilepsy and first-aid courses targeting dental students are highly recommended.

Hypertension in India: a gender-based study of prevalence and associated risk factors

BackgroundHypertension, a major non-communicable disease, is responsible for a significant number of global deaths, including approximately 17.9 million yearly. The Global Burden of Disease 2019 (GBD 2019) estimates that 19% of global deaths are attributed to elevated blood pressure. India, with a population of over 1.4 billion, is facing a serious challenge in combating this silent killer. This study aims to analyze the gender-based prevalence of hypertension in India and explore its associated risk factors using data from the fifth National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5).MethodsNFHS-5 collected data from 636,699 households across all states and union territories. The study includes standardized blood pressure measurements for 17,08,241 individuals aged 15 and above. The data were analyzed using Stata, employing descriptive statistics for the assessment of the prevalence and binary logistic regression to identify predictors of hypertension.ResultsThe study found the overall prevalence of hypertension in India to be 22.6%, with men (24.1%) having a higher prevalence than women (21.2%). Prevalence increased with age, reaching 48.4% in individuals aged 60 and above. Urban residents had a slightly higher prevalence (25%) than rural residents (21.4%), indicating the rapid spread of hypertension across all populations. Regional variations were observed, with the highest prevalence in Sikkim (37.9%) and the lowest in Rajasthan (16.5%). Increasing age, urban residence, belonging to certain religions (Muslim and other than Hindu or Muslim), and being classified as Scheduled Tribes (ST) were associated with a higher likelihood of hypertension. Conversely, belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) or Other Backward Classes (OBC), being currently unmarried, and having higher education were associated with a lower likelihood of hypertension. Wealth index analysis revealed that those in the richest quintile were more likely to have hypertension. Behavioural risk factors, such as alcohol consumption, overweight, obesity, increased waist circumference, and high blood glucose levels, are positively associated with hypertension.ConclusionHypertension is a significant health burden in India, affecting both men and women. Age is the strongest non-modifiable predictor for both men and women. However, ageing women have higher odds of hypertension than ageing men, and this distinction becomes much more evident in their older ages. Obese women, based on BMI, have higher odds of hypertension than men. However, hypertension prevalence is slightly higher among men who are overweight or obese compared to women. BMI, waist circumference, random glucose level, alcohol use, and education level emerged as major predictors. Health education and awareness campaigns are critical to control the growing burden of hypertension in India. Policymakers must focus on preventive measures, targeting lifestyle changes and improved healthcare access for both men and women. By addressing these risk factors, India can make significant progress in controlling hypertension and reducing its impact on public health.

The Role of the State Civil Apparatus (ASN) in Preventing and Suppressing the Practice of Money Politics

This study aimed to analyze the constrained role of the State Civil Apparatus (ASN) in suppressing the practice of money politics which contributes to high-cost elections during general elections. ASN’s political activities are heavily restricted, limiting its ability to actively and directly engage in the electoral process. However, statutory provisions also mandate that ASN serve as both the implementer of public policy—an inherently political product—and as a unifying force for the nation. In its role as a unifier, ASN must actively contribute to ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and appropriately for the future of the nation. The object of this study was to examine the limited authority and role of ASN in suppressing the practice of money politics. The study employed a qualitative descriptive analysis to explore the issue from the ASN’s perspective, focusing on the potential contributions of its authority and role in enhancing the quality of elections. The findings indicated that ASN can leverage its authority and role both individually and institutionally to suppress money politics practices. Individually, ASN members can contribute through socialization, advocacy, political education, information dissemination, and anti-money politics campaigns. Institutionally, contributions can be made by strengthening regulatory and policy frameworks, enhancing the integrity and capabilities of ASN personnel, conducting studies, analyses, and discussions to improve electoral process quality, and enforcing strict sanctions against perpetrators of money politics.

Genetic testing perspectives in Pakistani population: a survey on knowledge, attitudes, awareness, and concerns.

A higher rate of consanguineous marriages is associated with the increasing prevalence of genetic disorders, imposing a significant burden on families, public health, and healthcare systems. Genetic testing facilitates the earlier detection of disease and personalized treatment approaches. Therefore, this study aims to assess knowledge, awareness, attitudes, and concerns regarding genetic testing in the Pakistani population. Participants (n = 494) were asked about factors that influence attitudes toward undergoing genetic testing. Furthermore, the study also investigates the concerns and reservations held by the Pakistani population regarding genetic testing. Participants indicated that consanguineous marriages lead to an increased risk of hereditary disorders and agreed that knowledge of genetic diseases can improve the quality of life. Almost 80% of the respondents know the term, and the majority of them know about genetic testing. 87.7% of respondents agreed to genetic screening before marriage, and 39.9% were willing to undergo genetic testing. More knowledge was significantly associated with a higher likelihood of accepting genetic testing, indicating potential acceptance if integrated into standard procedures. Those with a family history of genetic disorders were more positive in accepting genetic testing. The level of understanding regarding genetic testing also influences the concerns. Cultural or religious beliefs may also affect the decision to accept genetic testing. The survey reveals diverse opinions and knowledge levels regarding genetic testing in Pakistan. While there was generally positive interest, concerns about privacy, accuracy, and cultural factors should be addressed. Education and awareness campaigns could help improve understanding and acceptance.

Comprehensive review of salmonellosis: current status of the disease and future perspectives

Salmonellosis is a significant public health concern in Saudi Arabia, with various serovars of Salmonella causing outbreaks and infections. The disease's clinical presentation includes common symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps, with potential complications in severe cases. Diagnosing salmonellosis in Saudi Arabia involves a combination of traditional laboratory methods and molecular techniques to ensure accurate identification and treatment. Preventive measures and control strategies, including vaccination campaigns, food safety protocols, and public health education, have been implemented to mitigate the spread of salmonellosis. Challenges such as antimicrobial resistance, limited healthcare resources in rural areas, and underreporting of cases persist and impact the effective management of the disease. Recommendations for improving salmonellosis prevention and management include enhancing surveillance, implementing public health education campaigns, strengthening food safety regulations, promoting antimicrobial stewardship, investing in research, improving healthcare infrastructure, and fostering collaboration and coordination between sectors. Implementing these recommendations can help Saudi Arabia effectively address the challenges posed by salmonellosis and reduce the burden of the disease on public health.

The Impact of E-Ticketing System on Bus Transportation Service in Tanzania

This study investigates the impact of the e-ticketing system on bus transportation services in Tanzania. The main objective of the research is to assess how the e-ticketing system influences various aspects of bus transportation in Tanzania. Specific objectives include examining the role of e-ticketing, identifying the challenges it poses, and exploring strategies for its improvement. Primary data were collected through well-structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews, providing both quantitative and qualitative insights into the effectiveness of the e-ticketing system. The findings reveal that the e-ticketing system has significantly enhanced revenue management, passenger convenience, sustainability, and fraud prevention, with significance levels of .02, .01, .02, and .02, respectively. These results highlight the system's valuable contribution to improving service quality. However, the study also identifies several challenges, including technical issues, connectivity problems, resistance to change, and security concerns. To address these challenges, the study proposes strategies such as increasing awareness and educational campaigns, upgrading technology and infrastructure, implementing offline options, and enhancing feedback and support mechanisms. These recommendations aim to optimize the e-ticketing system's effectiveness and address its limitations, ultimately improving the overall bus transportation service in Tanzania.

Toward an Equitable Transport Strategy by Assessing Cycling Initiatives and Identifying Barriers to Implementing Cycling Equity Policies

This study aims to evaluate equity in cycling initiatives and their operational challenges by reviewing a wide range of cycling initiatives implemented in Auckland, New Zealand. The effectiveness of current initiatives with respect to various target groups or resulting beneficiaries is discussed, along with potential additional initiatives, barriers to implementing cycling equity initiatives in practice, and possible solutions to address such barriers. By interviewing policymakers, decision-makers, planners, designers, and transportation professionals, 44 cycling initiatives are identified. Results suggest that the geographical distribution of some of the current initiatives implemented could be more equitable. While some initiatives are equitable, there remain challenges with respect to their implementation. Additionally, there are limited initiatives focusing on the safety of female cyclists in Auckland, and no initiatives specifically aimed at Māori and Pacific people, groups that can both be considered disadvantaged with respect to cycling in Auckland. Potential additional policy initiatives include e-bike/bicycle subsidies, policy and law changes, education and awareness campaigns, better urban planning, policies aimed at making cycling easier, and better monitoring and evaluation. Barriers to the implementation of cycling equity initiatives in practice include sociocultural issues, financial constraints, poor planning, human resource limitations, and the built environment. Suggested strategies to help overcome some of these issues include adopting an equity lens and providing equity assessments for all initiatives, thus providing a wider coverage with respect to diversity in the population, enhanced engagement with the community, and the empowerment of people.

PREVALENCE OF SELF-MEDICATION PRACTICE AMONG THE PEOPLE IN NANGARHAR, AFGHANISTAN

Self-medication, the practice of using medication without medical supervision, is widespread in many low-income settings, including Afghanistan, where access to healthcare services can be limited. Despite its convenience, self-medication carries significant risks, such as drug resistance and adverse reactions, particularly with the misuse of antibiotics and other prescription medications. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors influencing self-medication practices among residents of Nangarhar, Afghanistan, focusing on common illnesses and types of medications used. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and June 2024 among 1,020 individuals, both male and female, aged 18 years and above, across Nangarhar. Participants were selected through random sampling. Data collection was performed using structured questionnaires, which gathered information on demographics, types of illnesses, medications used, and factors influencing self-medication practices. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. Results: Of the total respondents, 62.6% reported self-medicating in the past six months. The most commonly reported ailments leading to self-medication were pain relief (45.2%), fever (39.8%), headache (38.7%), and gastrointestinal issues (27.5%). Antibiotics (46.1%) and analgesics (43.3%) were the most frequently used medications without prescriptions. Key reasons for self-medication included easy access to pharmacies (64.7%), high costs of healthcare (57.2%), and previous experiences with similar symptoms (49.8%). Lack of awareness about the dangers of self-medication and a perceived lack of severity of symptoms were also major contributing factors. Conclusion: Self-medication is a prevalent practice among residents of Nangarhar, Afghanistan, driven largely by ease of access to medications, economic barriers to healthcare, and low health literacy. Public health interventions, including educational campaigns and stricter regulations on over-the-counter medication sales, are urgently needed to mitigate the potential risks associated with this practice.

Understanding illegal dumping in Ontario: Drivers, barriers, and policy recommendations

Illegal dumping, the unauthorized disposal of waste in public spaces, poses significant environmental, social, and economic challenges, particularly in Ontario, Canada. This study investigates the drivers behind illegal dumping, with a focus on rural and urban communities in Ontario. Using a mixed-methods approach, including household surveys and interviews, we examine self-reported instances of dumping, attitudes towards waste management, and perceived barriers to legal waste disposal. The results reveal that inadequate waste collection infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, and high disposal costs are primary motivators for illegal dumping. Additionally, a lack of awareness regarding proper disposal methods exacerbates the issue. While most respondents recognize the immorality of illegal dumping, rural participants show less guilt and are more likely to engage in the behavior. The study provides actionable insights for policymakers, including the need for improved waste infrastructure, targeted educational campaigns, and increased enforcement efforts. By addressing these key factors, Ontario can mitigate the environmental and public health risks posed by illegal dumping, while fostering a culture of responsible waste disposal.

Social and Cultural Factors Influencing Promotion of Latrine Utilization in Laisamis Sub-County, Marsabit, Kenya

The issue of sanitation has long existed and drawn criticism from figures like Mahatma Gandhi, who stated that sanitation in a community is more important than independence. Latrine utilization is among ways of ensuring that communities are safe and are not interacting with disease causing pathogens. However, the presence of latrines has not completely been a guarantee for their utilization especially among the pastoral communities. The objectives of this study was to examine the social and cultural factors influencing promotion of latrine utilization Laisamis Sub-County, Marsabit County, Kenya. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in two selected Wards in Laisamis Sub-County using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Quantitive data was collected from 177 households using questionnaires and analysed in descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data was gathered from selected members from a focus group discussion. The data was analysed thematically and presented in narratives. The social factors that showed a significant influence on latrine utilization included: perceived health benefits (p=0.000&lt;0.05), accessibility of latrines (p=0.000&lt;0.05), respect associated with latrines ownership (p=0.05) and social norms (p=0.000&lt;0.05). Cultural beliefs relating to defecation in enclosed places such as toilets seemed to encourage open defecation despite latrine presence. Taboos surrounding sharing of latrines for men and women and among in-laws was reported to attract latrine avoidance especially when the available toilets were not separated. It was established that cultural practices for some groups such as morans discouraged toilets utilization. The influence of cultural taboos, barriers and beliefs on latrine utilization was significant (p&lt;0.05). The study concluded that owning a latrine in Laisamis Sub-County did not guarantee use because of the influence of social and cultural issues. The study recommended community engagement and robust education campaigns using local leaders and influencers to dispel taboos and beliefs against latrine use. Context-specific behaviour change strategies could encourage positive habits and increase utilization of latrines in the sub-county.

Climate Change Awareness and Policy Implementation in Canberra

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the climate change awareness and policy implementation in Canberra. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed that while there is a high level of public awareness and concern about climate change among residents, translating this awareness into effective policy action remains a challenge. The local government has implemented various policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainability, but gaps persist in policy enforcement and public engagement. The findings suggest that stronger collaboration between policymakers, community stakeholders, and educational campaigns is needed to bridge the gap between awareness and actionable outcomes in combating climate change in Canberra. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social cognitive theory, framing theory &amp; the theory of planned behavior may be used to anchor future studies on climate change awareness and policy implementation in Canberra. Educational campaigns should incorporate interactive workshops, online resources, and community events that encourage participation and foster a deeper understanding of climate policies. Policymakers should allocate funding for climate education initiatives, ensuring that they are integrated into school curricula and community learning programs, thereby institutionalizing climate education.

Reconditioning For Discharge; An OT-Led Initiative

Abstract Background Deconditioning is the loss of functional ability in frail older adults (BGS, 2017). Many initiatives such as #EndPJParalysis address the importance of preventing functional decline in acute settings. Occupational therapists (OTs) are best equipped to lead these initiatives due to the holistic nature of the profession. This initiative aimed to complete an educational campaign among staff, patients and families about the importance of preventing deconditioning. Audit approval was granted by hospital Clinical Audit Committee. Methods An observational audit of patient presentation at ward level was completed. Data was gathered on clothing and sitting out status as a baseline measurement. A PR and staff education campaign was instigated. Information leaflets and posters for patients, families and staff were distributed. A re-audit was completed after 1 month. Results Patients in their own clothing/pyjamas increased by 8%. Patients sitting out of bed increased by 11%. Informal positive feedback from patients, families and staff suggested a cultural shift on the ward with regards to promoting patients independence. Conclusion Improvements post initiative were noted, however, a longer duration of the initiative would be beneficial to further promote reconditioning. OTs’ comprehensive approach is best placed to champion this reconditioning initiative. Further roll out of the campaign throughout the hospital may be of benefit. There is a wealth of educational/PR resources available for same. Reference British Geriatrics Society (2017) Deconditioning awareness, British Geriatrics Society. Available at: https://www.bgs.org.uk/resources/deconditioning-awareness (Accessed: 19 April 2024).

Understanding Potential Mechanisms of Vaping Prevention Messages: A Mediation Analysis of the Real Cost Campaign Advertisements.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) developed a public education campaign, The Real Cost, that reduced youth susceptibility to tobacco product use. We sought to identify the mechanisms that may underlie the impact of The Real Cost ads on susceptibility to vaping to inform youth tobacco prevention campaigns. Our online randomized controlled trial (clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT04836455) examined a large sample of U.S. adolescents (n = 1,348) who had multiple exposures to Real Cost ads or control videos over a 3-week period in 2021. To examine potential mediating pathways between The Real Cost ads and susceptibility to vaping, we examined theory-based psychosocial and message-related variables. The largest impact of The Real Cost ads on susceptibility was via more negative attitudes toward vaping (βa*βb = -0.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] = [-0.25, -0.06]). Other mediation paths were via improved health harm risk beliefs (βa*βb = -0.08; 95% CI = [-0.13, -0.04]), addiction risk beliefs (βa*βb = -0.04; 95% CI = [-0.06, -0.01]), injunctive norms against vaping (βa*βb = -0.05; 95% CI = [-0.09, -0.02]), negative affect (βa*βb = -0.05; 95% CI = [-0.08, -0.02]), and cognitive elaboration (βa*βb = -0.03; 95% CI = [-0.05, -0.003]). Our findings suggest that ads that target negative attitudes may decrease susceptibility to vaping among youth. Our findings also introduce normative pressure as a novel factor that may be important for vaping prevention messages.

‘Beyond the nation state’: does China’s ‘new era’ education facilitate an international orientation to citizenship education?

ABSTRACT Despite a strong commitment to patriotic education, China has attempted to adopt an international perspective in its education policy for the Xi administration’s ‘new era’. This to some extent echoes China’s traditional culture and the Chinese Communist Party’s embrace of Marxism. Developing students’ international vision is one of the learning objectives of the current administration’s new-era educational campaign, with the aim of cultivating a worldview within the framework of Marxist ideology. Through an analysis of compulsory civics teaching materials supplemented by interviews with a group of youth educators, this study reveals how internationalisation has been envisioned in China’s recent educational campaign to balance commitment to the nation with the development of a worldview.

Utilization of unimproved energy sources and associated factors among households in Bishoftu town, Ethiopia: implications for climate change and health concerns

IntroductionThe use of unimproved energy sources is associated with a range of health problems. However, in Ethiopia, studies focused on the utilization of unimproved energy sources and associated factors are limited. Therefore, this study aimed to close this gap.MethodsIn this community-based cross-sectional study, 5,350 participants were enrolled. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the associations between the utilization of unimproved energy sources and the predictor variables. Additionally, the chi-square test was used to examine the association between households' unimproved energy source utilization and the occurrence of health problems.ResultsIn this study, 45% of households used unimproved energy sources. In the multivariable analysis, households headed by men (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 0.76; with 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66, 0.87), households headed by illiterate heads (AOR = 1.77 with 95% CI 1.47, 2.14), household family size (AOR = 0.79 with 95% CI 0.79, 0.93), households headed with farmers (AOR = 3.33 with 95% CI 2.31, 4.81), households with low income (AOR = 3.41 with 95% CI 2.57, 4.51), rural households (AOR = 7.94 with 95% CI 6.76, 9.32), and households with regular coffee ceremony practices (AOR = 1.17 with 95% CI 1.00, 1.36) were significantly associated with the utilization of unimproved energy sources. Additionally, the results of the chi-square test revealed that households that relied on unimproved energy sources had a 1.5-fold greater risk of developing respiratory illnesses, an 8.5-fold greater risk of developing cataract disease, and a 5.2-fold greater risk of developing trachoma than households that used improved energy sources.ConclusionA significant proportion of households in Bishoftu town still rely on unimproved energy sources for cooking and other household needs. This indicates a substantial challenge in achieving universal access to clean and sustainable energy in the area. Several socioeconomic and demographic factors are associated with the use of unimproved energy sources, including male-headed households, illiteracy of household head, smaller family size, farming occupation, low income, rural residence, and regular coffee ceremony practices. Most importantly, the use of unimproved energy sources is associated with higher risks of respiratory illnesses, cataracts, and trachoma among household members. Therefore, the government should implement targeted interventions to promote the adoption of clean and improved energy sources among vulnerable households such as households headed by farmers, those with illiterate heads, households with low socioeconomic status, households with regular coffee ceremony practices, and those in rural areas. In addition, the local government should develop and implement educational campaigns to raise awareness about the health and environmental risks associated with the use of unimproved energy sources, particularly among households with high-risk factors identified in the study.

Clicks and checks: investigating the association between internet usage frequency and women’s uptake of clinical breast examination in Ghana

BackgroundIn resource-constrained settings, availability and access to mammography is a challenge. As such, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends clinical breast examination (CBE) for women in such settings. Yet, CBE uptake remains low. We, therefore, aimed to contribute to the discourse on factors that influence women’s screening practice by investigating the association between the frequency of internet use and women’s uptake of CBE in Ghana.MethodsThis study was based on data from 15,013 women who participated in the 2022 Ghana demographic and health survey. We performed descriptive analysis, computed Pearson’s chi-square test, and fitted multivariable logistic regression models. The findings from the regression model were presented in adjusted odds ratio (AOR) at a 95% confidence interval.ResultsOnly 18.39% of women 15–49 years had their breasts examined by a healthcare provider. About 38.22% of the total sample often used the internet. Compared to women who did not use the internet at all, those who often used it had twice the odds of getting screened (COR = 2.86; 95%CI: 2.62–3.13). The odds of CBE uptake remained significantly higher among those who often used the internet (AOR = 1.26; 95%CI: 1.12–1.43) even after adjusting for the covariates.ConclusionWe conclude that CBE uptake is significantly high among women who frequently use the internet. This association persists even when considering other influential factors such as age, education level, marital status, and socioeconomic status. As such, it is imperative for the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service to recognize the potential of digital health interventions, including online health education campaigns and telehealth services, in reaching and engaging women to get their breast examined by a healthcare provider.