Health Education Intervention Research Articles

Effect of health education on knowledge, perception, and intended contraceptive use for family planning among university students in Pakistan

Approximately one billion women require family planning services worldwide, 842 million women are currently using modern contraceptives, and 80 million are using traditional contraceptive methods for family planning (FP). Health literacy (HL) can significantly make women aware of contraceptives for family planning. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of health education in determining perceptions and intended contraceptive use among university students in Pakistan. A pre-and post-approach with cross-sectional study design was conducted in the public sector University of Islamabad from July to December 2022. A self-administered and structured questionnaire comprising variables on knowledge level and intended contraceptive use was conducted among randomly selected students (n = 396). Survey respondents were given Health Education Intervention (HEI), which included a lecture regarding contraception use for family planning, and a posttest assessment was conducted on the same group of students. Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 24 was used for statistical data analysis. An Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Health Services Academy (HSA) approved this study. A majority, 217 (55%), were female respondents. There was a significant difference in the overall mean score between pretest and posttest assessments after the intervention. Hence, the findings proved that this intervention successfully improved the knowledge and intention of the participants to use FP. Moreover, after the HEI, 99% of respondents had improved knowledge about family planning methods and the benefits of contraceptive use. Knowledge, perceived benefits, and intended use of contraceptives for FP were significantly improved after the HEI (P < 0.05). In the posttest, the most learned methods were intrauterine devices, injections, implants, and withdrawal. Most of the participants were already well aware of condoms and oral pills. The study concludes that health education is an effective intervention to improve the knowledge, perception, and intended contraceptive use among undergraduate university students regarding family planning.

Intimate partner violence in the context of infertility: voices from women seeking assisted reproductive technology treatment and clinicians' perspectives.

The interplay between infertility and intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pressing global health issue, yet qualitative evidence on this phenomenon is limited. In order to measure and prevent IPV, it is pivotal to explore and integrate perceptions and experiences from those women with infertility themselves on IPV definition and its phenomenal manifestations in the context of infertility. This study is undertaken as part of a year-long ethnographic research based ata reproductive medicine center in Beijing, China from July 2022 to July 2023. Individual interviews with women attending ART outpatient clinics and with clinicians involved in infertility treatment were conducted. Grounded Theory methodology was used to guide data analysis, which entailed a three-step analytical approach. A total of 37 women and five clinicians were interviewed. Incomplete conceptualization of IPV and high mental stress among patients were evident. IPV against women with infertility has been shown to be a specific and severe form of IPV. The phenomenal manifestation of IPV in the context of infertility often takes the form of psychological abuse, including stonewalling, threats of divorce, and non-compliance with ART treatment. The study revealed that the burden of fertility disproportionately falls on women, often intensified by the involvement of other family and cultural norms, exacerbating gender inequalities and IPV risks. Findings from this study calls for an immediate and comprehensive response in healthcare practice. IPV screening, health education, and structural interventions should be introduced to prevent and mitigate this issue.

Effects of internet-based health education on patients with acute intermittent porphyria

BackgroundAcute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is a rare genetic metabolic disorder characterized by acute attacks of neurovisceral symptoms. This disease not only poses a threat to patients’ physical and mental well-being, but its frequent acute attacks also have a profound impact on patients’ mental state and overall quality of life (QoL).ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the impact of internet-based health education on the acute attacks, mental health, and QoL of patients with AIP.MethodsThis study employed a pre-post comparison design, recruiting 52 patients diagnosed with AIP and treated at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University between September 2021 and May 2023 as the subjects of investigation. All participants underwent a 12-month internet-based health education intervention. Quantitative assessments of the intervention’s efficacy in reducing acute attacks, enhancing mental health status, and improving QoL among AIP patients were conducted using various instruments, including measures of acute episode frequency and severity, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales-21 (DASS-21), the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), and the MOS 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36). Data were collected at two distinct time points: pre- and post-health education interventions, which were then subjected to comparative analysis.ResultsCompared to pre-health education, the frequency of acute attacks among patients with AIP significantly decreased post-health education intervention (p < 0.05). Furthermore, notable improvements were observed in the severity of acute attacks, PANAS scores, DASS-21 scores, and SF-36 scores (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study validated that health education effectively reduced the frequency and severity of acute attacks in AIP patients while enhancing their mental health status and quality of life. Internet-based health education emerges as a practical and productive strategy for AIP patients.

A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Interventions Targeted to Parents for Improving the Oral Health of Children from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) Backgrounds.

A high prevalence of dental caries is a significant health problem, especially in the pediatric population. Low-income minority groups, including the refugee and immigrant populations, are at higher risk of compromised oral health. It has been suggested that migrant parents do not have enough understanding of oral health, risk factors associated with dental caries, or the progress of dental decay. This systematic review aims to study quantitative literature on oral health interventions, health promotion programs, or behaviour change interventions targeting the parents/ caregivers of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) children. A systematic search of electronic databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, CINAHL, SCOPUS, WEB OF SCIENCE, COCHRANE, and PROQUEST, was conducted until August 2023. Randomised (RCT) or non-randomised controlled trials (NRCTs) were included. Two reviewers independently assessed the quality of the included studies using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2.0 and ROBINS-I tools. Meta-analysis was performed as appropriate. The initial search from the databases retrieved 2073 articles. After the removal of duplicates, 1683 articles remained. Finally, 69 articles were reviewed in full text, and 15 articles were considered eligible in this review. The RoB assessment for RCTs rated three as low-risk and three as high-risk. The serious RoB in these NRCTs mostly pertained to measurement bias based on self-reporting oral health behaviours. The meta-analysis pooling of results (for RCTs and NRCTs) favoured interventions for CALD parents' oral health knowledge [0.73 (95% CI, 0.08 to 1.38) for RCTs, 1.73 (95% CI; 1.45 to 2.02) for NRCTs] and attitudes [0.86 (95% CI, 0.31 to 1.42)]. Relatively high heterogeneity was observed. Oral health educational interventions can be effective in improving the oral health literacy of CALD parents' oral health knowledge and attitudes, especially when facilitated by lay health advisors. However, the low quality of evidence due to high heterogeneity and high RoB further highlighted the need for well-designed RCTs targeting CALD parents.

Development and pilot of an interdisciplinary health education program to address health disparities for gender-diverse persons at the U.S./Mexico border

Purpose: Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals face substantial barriers to health equity, which are magnified for TGD persons of color and those living in medically underserved areas. This article presents the development and pilot of an interdisciplinary health education program for TGD individuals in an underserved U.S./Mexico border community. Feasibility of the initiative and challenges of implementing such a program are discussed. Method: A health education program was developed and piloted through a collaboration between The University of Texas at El Paso and a community partner, Borderland Rainbow Center. The program trained graduate students from various health sciences to educate TGD community members, along with their friends, families, and allies, on gender-affirming care and resources. The program took place in El Paso, TX and southern NM, USA between March and October, 2023. Results: Examples of quantitative and qualitative data that were collected from this pilot program are provided. We present descriptive statistics of pre- versus post-survey data as a demonstration of feasibility and as an example of how such data may be structured in future studies that aim to incorporate more robust statistical analysis. Conclusion: The details of the program’s conceptualization and implementation can serve as a model for developing targeted health education interventions for TGD populations in diverse geographic and sociocultural settings. These interventions are critical as they address both community needs and student education to combat health inequities faced by underrepresented or marginalized groups.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF CHRONIC DISEASES IN VULNERABLE POPULATIONS

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases are prevalent in vulnerable populations, who often face difficulties in accessing adequate medical care. Primary care, especially family medicine, plays a central role in the prevention and control of these diseases, as it offers continuous, comprehensive and personalized care, focused on health promotion and the prevention of complications. This model of care is especially effective in communities that face economic, social and cultural barriers, allowing for early intervention and appropriate management of chronic conditions. The aim of this study is to analyze strategies for the prevention and control of chronic diseases in vulnerable populations, with a focus on family medicine. The aim is to identify effective approaches that can be used to improve the quality of life of these populations and reduce the incidence and progression of chronic diseases. The research was carried out through a qualitative literature review, focusing on articles published between 2017 and 2022. The aim was to explore the advances and challenges in the management of chronic diseases, with an emphasis on primary health practices, the impact of social determinants of health, and the role of technologies such as telemedicine in the management of these conditions. By providing continuous and comprehensive care, family medicine uses various strategies to prevent and control chronic diseases. These include regular patient follow-up, early screening for conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, and health education, which guides individuals on healthy behaviors and self-care. In addition, disease monitoring programs and interventions such as modifying eating habits and promoting physical activity have shown positive results in the management of chronic diseases. However, there are still significant challenges, such as the scarcity of resources and the lack of qualified professionals, which limit the effectiveness of these approaches in certain regions and social groups. Overcoming these barriers requires a joint effort between health professionals, managers and public policies. It is concluded that family medicine is a fundamental approach to the control and prevention of chronic diseases, especially in vulnerable populations. The strategies adopted in this model of care, such as continuous monitoring, health education and early intervention, have shown significant results in improving quality of life and reducing complications associated with chronic diseases. However, in order to optimize the results, it is necessary to overcome challenges related to access and the training of professionals, as well as ensuring adequate support for the implementation of public health programs that favour the population in situations of vulnerability. Implementing efficient public policies and expanding access to primary health care are essential to achieving effective control of chronic diseases.

Combating HIV among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa through inclusive health education

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa underscores the exigency for effective prevention education programs tailored to their needs. This article examines barriers hindering HIV prevention efforts for youths in the region and proposes strategies for developing more inclusive and impactful health education interventions. Despite the challenges faced by HIV-positive adolescents, comprehensive youth-friendly services remain limited. Impediments such as stigma, poverty, and lack of health-care infrastructure obstruct HIV prevention. Access to information and services, negative attitudes of service providers, and scarcity of youth programs present challenges. The article discusses approaches such as involving youth in program design, establishing community advisory boards, mobilizing community health workers, integrating services, engaging schools, employing gender-sensitive methods, and advocating supportive policies. These strategies aim to enhance cultural sensitivity, community engagement, and accessibility of education for all youths. Sustained commitment through ongoing funding, monitoring, capacity building, and multisectoral collaboration can empower youths with the knowledge and support needed to curb their long-term risk of HIV.

Relationships Among eHealth Literacy, Physical Literacy, and Physical Activity in Chinese University Students: Cross-Sectional Study.

eHealth literacy is critical for evaluating abilities in locating, accessing, and applying digital health information to enhance one's understanding, skills, and attitudes toward a healthy lifestyle. Prior research indicates that enhancing eHealth literacy can improve health behaviors such as physical activity (PA). Physical literacy (PL) refers to the ability to develop sustainable PA habits, taking into account various aspects of an individual. Notably, university students have shown a decline in PA and possess low PL levels. However, the connection between eHealth literacy and PL in this demographic has not been extensively studied, and it remains uncertain whether PA acts as a mediator between eHealth literacy and PL. This study examines the extent to which PA mediates the link between eHealth literacy and PL in Chinese university students and explores gender differences in these variables. In February 2022, a cross-sectional survey was administered to 1210 students across 3 universities in China. The instruments used were the Perceived PL Instrument, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and the Chinese version of the eHealth Literacy Scale. Correlations between eHealth literacy, PA, and PL were analyzed using Pearson product-moment correlation and multiple linear regression, while mediation models helped elucidate the interactions among the 3 variables. The response rate for the study was 92.9% (1124/1210). In the mediation analysis, eHealth literacy showed a significant direct effect on PL, with a coefficient of 0.78 (β .75, SE 0.02; P<.001). Moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) accounted for 2.16% of the total effect, suggesting that MVPA partially mediates the relationship between eHealth literacy and PL. Additionally, male students outperformed female students in terms of MVPA (t636=4.94; P<.001) and PL (t636=3.18; P<.001), but no significant differences were found in eHealth literacy (t636=1.23; P=.22). The findings indicate that MVPA serves as a mediator in the link between eHealth literacy and PL among university students. Students with low eHealth literacy or limited PA are less likely to be physically literate. Thus, eHealth literacy plays a crucial role in enhancing PL and PA, especially when interventions targeting PL are implemented. Our results also suggest a need for targeted health education interventions aimed at improving MVPA and PL among female students, while also recognizing that eHealth literacy is comparable across genders at universities.

The effect of health education on symptom severity in patients with fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a complex chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain as the primary symptom. To evaluate the effect of health education on the severity of various symptoms in patients with FM, seven databases were searched from inception to August 2024 to identify randomized controlled trials evaluating the effects of health education for FM. The primary outcome was overall symptom severity, and the secondary outcomes were pain, depression, anxiety, sleep quality, fatigue, physical function and self-efficacy. The Cochrane Risk-of-Bias tool for randomized trials and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations were used to assess the quality of the included studies and the certainty of evidence, respectively. Treatment effects were estimated by calculating Hedges' g and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals. Meta-analysis included a total of 13 trials. The results revealed that health education significantly reduced overall symptom severity, depression and anxiety and increased sleep quality and physical function among patients with FM (all P values < 0.05). However, no significant effects were observed on pain, fatigue and self-efficacy. Health education may be a beneficial intervention for FM patients, particularly for mitigating symptom severity. Health-care providers should implement health education interventions to empower patients to effectively manage their symptoms.

Effectiveness of health education on insulin injection technique in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A quasi-experimental Pre-test post-test research

ABSTRACT Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) patients often exhibit gaps in knowledge and improper practices regarding insulin injection techniques. This quasi-experimental study aimed to assess the effectiveness of tailored health education in bridging these gaps and improving insulin injection practices among T2DM patients. Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate baseline knowledge and practices related to insulin injection techniques among T2DM patients, implement a tailored health education intervention, and assess the impact of this intervention on knowledge and practices. Methodology: Participants included T2DM patients attending rural health centers. A structured questionnaire was utilized to assess baseline knowledge and practices. Tailored health education sessions were then conducted, incorporating video-based teaching, mock demonstrations, and handouts in the local language. Post-intervention assessments were performed using the same questionnaire. Data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Results: At baseline, a significant knowledge gap and improper insulin injection practices were identified among participants. Following the tailored health education intervention, a substantial improvement in participants’ knowledge of insulin storage, handling, and administration was observed. The intervention also positively impacted insulin injection practices, emphasizing key areas such as handwashing, site cleansing, and needle disposal. Conclusion: This quasi-experimental study highlights the effectiveness of tailored health education in enhancing insulin injection practices among T2DM patients. The findings emphasize the potential for structured health education programs to address knowledge gaps, improve healthcare standards, and enhance the overall quality of life for individuals with T2DM. The study underscores the importance of individualized educational approaches to meet patient needs better.

Prevalence of Health Issues in Durres Children: Refractive Errors, Caries, and Scoliosis

This study evaluates the prevalence of three common health conditions refractive errors, dental caries, and scoliosis-among children aged 6-14 in Durrës, Albania. Recognizing that children’s health issues can have profound effects on their overall well-being and educational performance, this research aims to provide insights into the health needs of the pediatric population in this region. A total of 370 students from five different schools were assessed through a series of clinical screenings, dental evaluations using the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) index, and postural examinations. The findings indicate significant variations in the prevalence of these conditions across different schools and between genders. Specifically, refractive errors were found to be more prevalent in boys, particularly myopia, which was observed more frequently at Vincenc Prendushi and Nënë Tereza schools. In contrast, hypermetropia and astigmatism demonstrated similar trends across both genders, highlighting the need for targeted vision screenings and interventions to mitigate these issues. The prevalence of dental caries was notably high at 42%, underscoring the urgent need for improved oral hygiene support, particularly among girls, who exhibited higher rates in some schools. Furthermore, scoliosis was identified in 12% of the assessed children, with a greater incidence among boys. Certain schools had notably higher prevalence rates, suggesting potential links to environmental factors such as classroom ergonomics and physical activity levels. This study emphasizes the importance of regular health screenings and educational interventions to address these prevalent conditions effectively. Additionally, the findings advocate for the development of targeted health policies aimed at improving children’s health outcomes, thereby promoting overall well-being and academic performance. By focusing on preventive measures and raising awareness about these common health issues, this research contributes valuable information to policymakers, educators, and health professionals working to enhance child health in Albania.

The Thoughtful program: a randomized controlled study of a mentalization-based mental health education intervention in a psychiatric outpatient population

Background P-factor and mentalizing theory and research set perspectives for transdiagnostic psychiatric treatments. Aims To test the effects of a low-cost mentalization-based health education program (the Thoughtful program) in an unselected waiting list population, from a psychiatric outpatient clinic in North Norway. Methods Waiting list patients were randomized (1:1 allocation): 79 patients in the control group were offered standard individual assessment and treatment. Seventy-nine patients in the intervention group were offered a one-day (six-hour) group-based Thoughtful course, plus individual assessment, and treatment. Results During a 6-month follow-up period, the number of patients in active assessment and treatment was 66% higher in the control group than in the intervention group. Self-reported patient questionnaire scores on mentalizing, well-being and suicidal ideation scores showed no significant changes in the control group. In the intervention group, significant changes were reported: Mentalizing scores improved by 72% and well-being scores improved by 55%. Suicidal ideation scores were not significantly changed. No adverse effects were registered. Limitations The results from this study should be interpreted with caution because of a small population size and low questionnaire response rate. The follow up period was limited to 6 months. Transfer of program information from intervention group patients to control group patients could not be guaranteed. It may be considered a limitation that diagnostic pattern analysis was not included in the study. Conclusions A low-cost transdiagnostic mentalization-based educational program in an outpatient psychiatry clinic may improve patient mentalizing and wellbeing without adverse effects and reduce the use of hospital services.

The Effects of Health Education Model Based on Goal-setting Theory on lifestyle, Diet and Nutrition, and Psychological Regulation of Thyroid Cancer Patients after Surgery

Objective: The effects of a health education model based on goal-setting theory on lifestyle, diet and nutrition, and psychological regulation of thyroid cancer patients after surgery. Methods: A total of 60 thyroid cancer patients from the First Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou University of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 1, 2020 ~ December 31, 2023 were selected and grouped.They were divided into 30 observation groups and 30 control groups based on the principle that baseline data between groups could be compared. Patients in both groups were given routine postoperative care for thyroid cancer, and on this basis, the control group was given routine health education intervention, and the observation group was given health education intervention based on goal-setting theory. Both groups were intervened until discharge, and both groups were followed up for 1 month after discharge. Before the intervention and one week after the intervention, the self-made disease knowledge questionnaire and the self-management assessment scale of cancer patients were used to evaluate the disease knowledge, self-management ability and quality of life of the two groups. The compliance of patients with rehabilitation exercises, hoarseness, tetany and quality of life before intervention and at the end of follow-up were observed. Results: After 1 month of intervention, there were significant differences between the observation group and the normal control group in terms of disease knowledge knowledge score, self-efficacy, control of daily living habits, treatment of disease symptoms, and management of psychological adjustment (P&lt;0.05). In the process of intervention, the compliance of the observation group was significantly higher than that of the control group, and there was a significant difference, (P&lt;0.05). At the end of the follow-up, the symptoms of hoarseness, tetany and dyspnea in the observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P&lt;0.05). Finally, the two groups were significantly better than the control group in terms of physiological, psychological, functional exercise and special scores (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: Health education based on goal-setting theory has high application value in thyroid cancer surgery patients, which can improve patients' awareness of the disease, improve patients' rehabilitation compliance and self-management ability, and promote the recovery and improvement of postoperative living standards.

Effectiveness of Cartoons, Comics, and Animation-Based Sexual Health Promotion and Education Interventions: A Scoping Review

Objective Sexual health education is crucial for promoting healthy sexual behaviors among people of all ages. Interventions involving cartoons, comics, and animations have emerged as effective tools due to their engaging and accessible nature. This scoping review explores the effectiveness of these interventions across different time frames and age groups. Methods Using the PICOS framework and PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews, a review was conducted across 14 databases to include relevant studies published between 2000 and 31 May 2024. Results Analyzing 51 intervention studies meeting the inclusion/exclusion criteria revealed varied outcomes in interventions that highlight a significant shift in focus from developing educational tools and empowering youth in the earlier period (2000–2010) to implementing advanced technology-based cartoons, comics, and animations interventions and addressing diverse populations in the later period (2011–2024). The results of these studies were predominantly positive, with many reporting significant improvements in knowledge, behaviors, and engagement. Conclusion While many studies report positive outcomes, further investigation is needed into the long-term impact of digital-based cartoons, comics, and animation interventions on behavior change and health outcomes. Research should also explore the effectiveness of these tools in different cultural and socioeconomic contexts to ensure their broad applicability. Ongoing research and iterative development are warranted to ensure that these interventions continue to evolve and meet the changing needs of users in an increasingly digital world across diverse populations

Strengthening anthrax outbreak response and preparedness: simulation and stakeholder education in Namisindwa district, Uganda

BackgroundAnthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis that poses a significant threat to both human health and livestock. Effective preparedness and response to anthrax outbreak at the district level is essential to mitigate the devastating impact of the disease to humans and animals. The current diseaae surveillance in animals and humans uses two different infrastructure systems with online platform supported by established diagnostic facilities. The differences in surveillance systems affect timely outbreak response especially for zoonotic diseases like anthrax. We therefore aimed to assess the feasibility of implementing a simulation exercise for a potential anthrax outbreak in a local government setting and to raise the suspicion index of different district stakeholders for a potential anthrax outbreak in Namisindwa District, Uganda.MethodsWe conducted a field-based simulation exercise and a health education intervention using quantitative data collection methods. The study participants mainly members of the District Taskforce (DTF) were purposively selected given their role(s) in disease surveillance and response at the sub-national level. We combined 26 variables (all dichotomized) assessing knowledge on anthrax and knowledge on appropriate outbreak response measures into an additive composite index. We then dichotomized overall score based on the 80% blooms cutoff i.e. we considered those scoring at least 80% to have high knowledge, otherwise low. We then assessed the factors associated with knowledge using binary logistic regression with time as a proxy for the intervention effect. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% Confidence intervals (95%CI) have been reported.ResultsThe overall district readiness score was 35.0% (24/69) and was deficient in the following domains: coordination and resource mobilization (5/16), surveillance (5/11), laboratory capacity (3/10), case management (4/7), risk communications (4/12), and control measures (4/13). The overall community readiness score was 7 out of 32 (22.0%). We noted poor scores of readiness in all domains except for case management (2/2). The knowledge training did not have an effect on the overall readiness score, but improved specific domains such as control measures. Instead tertiary education was the only independent predictor of higher knowledge on anthrax and how to respond to it (OR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.07–2.31). Training did not have a significant association with overall knowledge improvement but had an effect on several individual knowledge aspects.ConclusionWe found that the district’s preparedness to respond to a potential anthrax outbreak was inadequate, especially in coordination and mobilisation, surveillance, case management, risk communication and control measures. The health education training intervention showed increased knowledge levels compared to the pre-test and post-test an indicator that the health education sessions could increase the index of suspicion. The low preparedness underscores the urgency to strengthen anthrax preparedness in the district and could have implications for other districts. We deduce that trainings of a similar nature conducted regularly and extensively would have better effects. This study’s insights are valuable for improving anthrax readiness and safeguarding public and animal health in similar settings.

Inadequacy of antenatal care attendance and its determinants amongst pregnant women in Ethiopia based on the 2019 Mini-Ethiopian demographic health survey: secondary data analysis

BackgroundInadequacy of antenatal care (ANC) utilization is a prominent public health problem, causing poor pregnancy outcomes. In developing countries, including Ethiopia, having ANC coverage, many pregnant women do not achieve the first ANC visits in the first trimester and receive at least four ANC visits. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the magnitude and identify determinants of inadequacy of antenatal care attendance amongst pregnant women in Ethiopia.MethodsInadequate ANC attendance was defined as combining starting ANC visits after the first trimester and having fewer than four visits together. The study used secondary data from the 2019 mini-demographic and health survey. A weighted sample of 3927 pregnant women was included in this study. Data management and further analysis were performed using STATA 14 software. A multivariable generalized estimating equation analysis was used to identify determinants associated with inadequacy of antenatal care attendance. The Adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was used to identify significant variables for inadequate antenatal care visits.ResultOverall, 78.5% of pregnant women did not attend adequate antenatal care visits during pregnancy. In multivariable generalized estimating equation analysis, women aged 25 to 34 years (AOR = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.61–0.95), being educated (AOR = 0.31; 95% CI: 0.22–0.45), and being wealthier index (AOR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.51–0.88) were less likely to inadequate antenatal care attendance. Whereas being rural residents (AOR = 1.49; 95% CI:1.08–2.07), no television exposure (AOR = 1.51; 95% CI:1.1–2.06), having more family members in the household (AOR = 1.81; 95% CI: 1.11–2.95), and women from semi-peripheral region (AOR = 1.92; 95% CI: 1.42–2.59) were higher odds of being associated with inadequacy of antenatal care attendance.ConclusionsThe prevalence of Inadequate antenatal care attendance amongst pregnant women in Ethiopia is still High. The study identifies significant variables that could be positively and negatively associated with inadequate antenatal care visits. Health education interventions should target uneducated, poorer, and rural women to attend early antenatal care and use at least four antenatal care utilization for early detection of complications during pregnancy and delivery.

Infertility Prevention and Health Promotion: The Role of Nurses in Public Health Initiatives.

Infertility is a growing public health concern, affecting millions of individuals and couples worldwide. Despite advancements in medical treatments, prevention remains a critical strategy for reducing the burden of infertility. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in infertility prevention and health promotion, particularly through public health initiatives. This review aims to explore the diverse roles of nurses in infertility prevention and their contributions to public health strategies. A review of existing literature was conducted to examine the epidemiology of infertility, key risk factors, and the preventive measures that can be employed by nursing professionals. Emphasis is placed on the role of nurses in health education, screening, early detection, and community-based interventions, which are essential in reducing infertility rates. In addition, this review identifies barriers that impede effective nurse-led infertility prevention, such as disparities in access to care, cultural sensitivity challenges, and policy constraints. Evidence suggests that nurses are well-positioned to lead public health campaigns, conduct reproductive health counseling, and advocate for policy reforms to improve infertility prevention. The review concludes with recommendations for future research, suggesting enhanced nursing education and training, as well as the need for stronger integration of nurses into public health policy-making. This study underscores the critical role of nurses in promoting reproductive health and preventing infertility, advocating for their inclusion in comprehensive public health strategies aimed at addressing infertility on a global scale.

The effect of health education on quality of life (QOL) among polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) females at Karachi, Pakistan.

To evaluate the effect of nurses-led health education intervention on quality of life among polycystic ovary syndrome females. The quasi-experimental study was conducted from May to August 2022 at the Obstetrics and Gynaecology outpatient department of Dow University Hospital, Karachi, and comprised married females aged 18-45 years, who were diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome based on the Rotterdam criteria. Nurses-led health education intervention session was conducted for all the patients. Data was collected using the self-administered polycystic ovaries syndrome quality of life scale. Data was analysed using SPSS 26. Of the 50 females, 26(52%) were aged 26-35 years. There was a significance difference between baseline and postintervention scores across all domains of quality of life (p<0.05). Also, baseline body mass index of the participants was 30.4±4.711 which went down post-intervention to 29.4±4.800 (p<0.001). Nurses-led health education intervention improved the quality of life and body mass index of polycystic ovary syndrome patients.

Development and validation of Parents’ Health Literacy Scale on Preventing Road Traffic Injuries for children aged 0–6 years in China

BackgroundRoad traffic injuries are the leading cause of death in children. Parents’ health literacy (HL) is closely related to child safety, especially for the young children. This study aimed to...

Awareness, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Diabetic Retinopathy Among Residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia.

Eye diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma, are significant public health challenges globally, affecting quality of life. Diabetic retinopathy, a common diabetes complication, is a leading cause of visual impairment among working-age adults due to chronic hyperglycemia. Despite treatment advances, awareness of this condition remains low, especially in high-risk populations. This study explores the awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding eye health among residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia. This cross-sectional study utilized an online survey distributed via social media from August 1 to August 30, 2024. Targeting adults aged 18 and older, the survey assessed demographics, knowledge of eye diseases, and awareness of screening practices. After refining through a pilot test and validation by experts, data were collected anonymously via Google Forms (Google, Mountain View, California, United States) and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 27.0 (Released 2020; IBM Corp., Armonk, New York, United States). A total of 424 participants completed the survey, comprising 236 females (55.7%) and 186 males (43.9%), with the majority aged 18-45 years (n=379, 89.4%). Significant knowledge gaps were evident, as 284 participants (67%) were unaware of diabetic retinopathy, with only 138 (32.5%) recognizing the condition. Awareness of treatability was limited; 261 participants (61.6%) were uncertain about available treatment options. Social media (n=112, 26.4%) and family or friends (n=106, 25%) were the primary sources of information regarding eye health. While most participants believed in the necessity of regular eye examinations, many had not undergone such screenings. This study reveals critical gaps in knowledge and awareness of eye diseases, particularly diabetic retinopathy, among residents of Jazan City, Saudi Arabia. Although participants generally recognize the importance of eye health, misconceptions about the causes, risk factors, and treatment options for common eye conditions persist. Targeted public health initiatives and educational interventions are essential to enhance awareness and promote proactive eye health behaviors. Improving understanding and access to eye care services can facilitate the early detection and management of eye diseases, ultimately reducing the burden of visual impairment in the community.