Health Topics Research Articles

Public Participation GIS for Healthy Urban Planning

This scoping review investigates the utilization of public participatory geographic information system (PPGIS) methods in the context of healthy urban planning. A set of scientific publications (n = 38) applying PPGIS in urban settings has been extracted to map the addressed health topics, the characteristics of science–practice cooperation, and participation bias. Findings show that predominantly spatially well-representable features are subject to PPGIS surveys, while cluster analysis reveals specific patterns in health topic combinations. PPGIS results add value for officials performing their tasks. However, as a new tool, the full potential to aid planning has yet to be unleashed. PPGIS has been believed to reduce participation barriers and partially succeeds in reaching more diverse participants, as experiences with public participation show. However, there is no improvement in the recruitment of participants with lower levels of education.

YouTube as a source of information in cardiopulmonary resuscitation for 2020 AHA Resuscitation Guidelines

Background The Internet has transformed global information access, particularly through platforms like YouTube, which launched in 1995 and has since become the second largest search engine worldwide with over two billion monthly users. While YouTube offers extensive educational content, including health topics like cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and basic life support (BLS), it also poses risks due to potential misinformation. Our study focuses on evaluating the accuracy of CPR and BLS videos on YouTube according to the latest 2020 American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. This research aims to highlight inconsistencies and provide insights into improving YouTube as a reliable educational resource for both lay rescuers and healthcare professionals. Methods In this cross-sectional observational study, English YouTube videos uploaded between October 21, 2020, and May 1, 2023, were searched using keywords related to CPR and basic life support. Videos were assessed for their source, duration, views, use of human or mannequin models, and mean assessment scores by two emergency medicine physicians. A third physician’s opinion was sought in cases of disagreement. The first assessment evaluated video validity based on specified information criteria, while the second assessed their ability to convey advanced medical information aligned with the 2020 AHA guidelines. Results In this study, 201 English YouTube videos uploaded between October 21, 2020, and May 1, 2023, were evaluated based on search terms related to CPR and BLS, resulting in 95 videos meeting inclusion criteria after excluding 106 due to various reasons. Most included videos were from healthcare professionals (49.5%), followed by anonymous sources (29.5%) and official medical organizations (21.1%). Video durations ranged widely from 43 to 6,019 seconds, with an average of 692 seconds. Videos featuring mannequins predominated (91.6%), followed by those using human subjects (5.3%) or both (3.2%). Healthcare professional and official medical organization videos scoring significantly higher than those of unknown origin (p = 0.001). Video length did not correlate significantly with view counts, although shorter videos under 5 minutes tended to have higher average views. Discussion The results presented in this study demonstrated that English-language videos on YouTube related to BLS and CPR, throughout the study period, did not conform to the 2020 AHA guidelines in terms of providing basic information for lay rescuers. Furthermore, healthcare professionals cannot obtain advanced medical knowledge through these videos. We recommend a professional oversight mechanism in health-related videos that does not tolerate such misinformation.

Ask Your Relative: A mixed method analysis of the Sexual Health and Healthy Relationship Q&As submitted by American Indian Alaska Native young adults

BackgroundDisparities in sexual health outcomes persist among American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) youth due to intersectional challenges accessing youth-friendly health services. AIAN youth have an increased prevalence of STIs and teen pregnancy. To address disparities in sexual health outcomes, the Ask Auntie/Ask Your Relative (AYR) Q&A service has been used by AIAN youth and young adults for over seven years as a trusted resource for information on sensitive health topics. There is a continued need to better understand the health-seeking behaviors of AIAN youth, especially those related to healthy relationships and sexual health, to improve the alignment of health resources to their needs.MethodsThis mixed-method study began with two phases. Phase 1 involved an analysis of all AYR data using Google Analytics and basic frequency counts. Phase 2 reviewed all questions and answers related to sexual health and healthy relationships (N = 240) using thematic analysis, NVivo 12.0, and intersectionality, guided by the social determinants of health. All AYR answers were coded based on type, name/location, number of times viewed, and examples. The final step of the analytic process was to utilize an intersectional approach and socioecological model (Individual, Community, Tribe/Nation, and World) to create a visual model with results.ResultsPhase 1—Since We R Native began tracking AYR data, the service has been utilized by 2.37 M users, with 1.16 M unique pageviews. The average time on the page was 4 min and 46 s. The number of AYR questions submitted varied by year, and were most frequent in 2016, then decreased in subsequent years. In Phase 2, the main themes identified in AYR questions were (1) Reaching Out for Help, (2) Identity and Physical Development, and (3) Healthy Relationships. Analysis of the Q&A answers identified 244 resources, and of these, 100 were Native-specific. The context-specific resources represented 21 uniquely coded health topics, ranging from women's health to behavioral health.ConclusionsThe broad range of healthy relationship and sexual health questions submitted to the AYR service reflects the types of health information that AIAN young adults want to know about. Resources provided in response to their questions connected Q&A viewers to a wide variety of organizations and programs designed to support AIAN young adults in their health and wellness journey. Findings from this study may be useful for creating additional culturally tailored resources.

Differences in community health nursing learning outcomes based on simulation modality

BackgroundVarious modalities of community health nursing simulation have been useful in improving confidence, communication, and meeting learning objectives. Research focusing on comparing community health nursing learning outcomes in simulation with standardized patients versus mannequins is limited. This study aimed to explore differences in clinical reasoning, clinical learning, knowledge, communication, self-confidence, and learner satisfaction among community health students participating in standardized patient simulation compared to mannequins. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of 66 prelicensure students in community health nursing. Students completed a pre- and post-knowledge quiz, Satisfaction with Simulation Experience scale, and a simulation evaluation survey. ResultsCompared to simulation with mannequins, clinical reasoning, clinical learning, knowledge, communication, realism, and learner satisfaction scores were significantly higher with standardized patient simulation. ConclusionsSimulation with standardized patients can be useful for increasing community health nursing knowledge while enhancing clinical reasoning and realism. Future research including larger samples and more comprehensive community health topics is needed.

The Calcium Homeostasis of Human Red Blood Cells in Health and Disease: Interactions of PIEZO1, the Plasma Membrane Calcium Pump, and Gardos Channels.

Calcium ions mediate the volume homeostasis of human red blood cells (RBCs) in the circulation. The mechanism by which calcium ions affect RBC hydration states always follows the same sequence. Deformation of RBCs traversing capillaries briefly activates mechanosensitive PIEZO1 channels, allowing Ca2+ influx down its steep inward gradient transiently overcoming the calcium pump and elevating [Ca2+]i. Elevated [Ca2+]i activates the Ca2+-sensitive Gardos channels, inducing KCl loss and cell dehydration, a sequence operated with infinite variations in vivo and under experimental conditions. The selected health and disease themes for this review focus on landmark experimental results that led to the development of highly constrained models of the circulatory changes in RBCs homeostasis. Based on model predictions, a new perspective emerged, pointing to PIEZO1 dysfunction as the main trigger in the formation of the profoundly dehydrated irreversible sickle cells, the main pathogenic participants in vaso-occlusion, the root cause of sickle cell disease.

Climate change and health topics in pre-university education in Kosovo: A Content Analysis

Abstract Background Climate health literacy (CHL), recommended and recognized as vital for the global response to climate change and impacts on health, lacks comprehensive studies on its integration into primary and secondary school curricula. In Kosovo, where numerous environmental issues already exist and are expected to worsen due to climate change, the resulting health outcomes pose significant challenges. Moreover, the low environmental knowledge among youth further adds to the complexity of addressing these issues. This study addresses this gap by focusing on understanding and enhancing the inclusion of climate change and health topics in pre-university education. Methods A content analysis was conducted on: (1) core curricula, (2) subject curricula, and (3) textbooks for pre-university education (grades 0-12) in Kosovo. The outcomes of the content analysis were then juxtaposed with the CHL framework to identify alignment and gaps. Results We found that curricula in Grades 0-5, contained one topic on climate change and health topic out of 638 (0.16%) topics documented; however, textbooks did not elucidate this focus. Grades 6-9 had 2 out of 701 (0.28%) and the relevant textbook revealed that various environmental and health topics are covered, but that they lack exploration of the interrelatedness between environmental pollution, climate change, and health. Grades 9-12 had the highest integration with 4 out of 745 (0.54%). Textbook analysis of these grades revealed a more in-depth coverage of climate change and health linkages. In total, seven topics out of a pool of over 2000 topics encompassed learning outcomes related to climate and health in Kosovo’s pre-university education. Conclusions The current efforts to integrate climate change and health into Kosovo’s curriculum fails to meet the recommendations for achieving CHL levels. Localized and context relevant additions are needed to fulfil CHL among students in Kosovo and other countries interested in improving CHL. Key messages • This case serves as a testing ground for a framework assessing climate health literacy within curricula. The results identify gaps and areas of improvement, which inform the implications to attain CHL. • Results reveal shortcomings in the incorporation of climate change and health topics in schools, underscoring the necessity for tailored strategies to foster CHL among students.

Improving implementation of health interventions among ECEC organisations: a social network analysis

Abstract The environment wherein a child grows up determines many health and life outcomes of the child. The early childhood education and care (ECEC) is an important setting for children which offers possibilities for health promotion activities. A learning network with professionals from ECEC organisations in South-Limburg, the Netherlands is established, aimed at sharing health promotion ‘best practices’. This study examined the network structure of the learning network and of ECEC locations regarding health topics such as nutrition, physical activity and sun protection. A mixed-methods design was adopted. An online-questionnaire was used to examine the relationships of the members of the learning network (N = 6) and ECEC locations (N = 59) between these organisations and with organisations related to the health topics. Data was analysed and visualised using a social network analysis (SNA) in UCINET. Thereafter, semi-structured interviews were held with the members of the learning network (N = 6), to discuss the network structure and possible improvements of the network. The SNA showed a weak network structure for the learning network and ECEC locations. Connections were mostly related to organisations in the field of nutrition and physical activity. This implied that health interventions related to sun protection and green environments were not implemented to the same extent as nutrition and physical activity. The interviews provided insight into the underlying reasons for (the lack of) certain connections. Overall, the members were satisfied with the quality and quantity of their current collaborations. The SNA and interviews indicated that the collaboration between ECEC organisations and organisations related to other health topics like green environment or sun protection could be improved. Therefore, it is recommended that ECEC organisations should engage in collaborations with organisations in these domains.

Valencia and the Right to Energy approach

Abstract Background Valencian (Spain) vulnerable households are suffering both winter and summer energy poverty. An increasing number of families have difficulties paying energy bills and are being forced to cut consumption, consequently reducing their well-being and quality of life. This study presents the development and implementation of the Right to Energy urban program in the Valencia pilot city, as part of the larger European WELLBASED project. Methods The interventions were designed based on the social ecological model, aiming at impacting the different layers influencing individuals’ health, following co-creation sessions with 6-9 stakeholders from policy, citizens and practice. Implementation efforts were monitored using administration of participation. The experience of the Energy Office was also valuable for the design and implementation phase. Results The program consisted of bill optimization and advice, socio-energetic audit at home and the installation of an efficiency kit. On top of that, the Valencia pilot has created the Citizen School for the Right to Energy [CSRE] to empower households and improve their health through education activities. In total, 130 vulnerable households with different profiles were supported. The CSRE has carried out 28 workshops to train people in energy and health topics: energy rights, healthy diet, mental health, sleep quality or preparation for heat waves. These were an opportunity to share experiences among participants, fighting stigmatization and isolation by creating a community. The CSRE has also organized capacity-building sessions for professionals who can identify energy poverty such as healthcare and social workers, teachers or NGO’s. Conclusions Energy poverty, both winter and summer, is a major public health issue that impacts people’s health. The CSRE is an innovative way to tackle it and promote the Right to Energy across society by supporting and training people to improve their wellbeing.

The knowledge layer: the role of key messages for translating data into meaning

Abstract The large volume of data generated by health information systems often remains siloed within the institutions that produce it, posing significant challenges to its reuse and interpretation. This fragmentation can result in conflicting information on critical health topics, complicating the decision-making process for policymakers. To address this issue, Belgium has initiated the ‘Health Status Report’ website, hosted at healthybelgium.be. This website aims to synthesize and present health data in a manner that supports evidence-based policy formulation. The website adopts a structured approach to data integration and interpretation: initially, we identify and prioritize key health topics based on their relevance and the quality of available data. Subsequently, we merge and analyze data from diverse sources to discern patterns and trends that are crucial for public health monitoring. The insights gained are then presented through both narrative texts and interactive visualizations, facilitating access and understanding for a broad audience. Crucial to this process is ongoing communication with experts and stakeholders, ensuring that the data is not only accurately interpreted but also aligns with the needs and expectations of its users. We also aim to translate the raw data into meaningful key messages by consulting with internal and external experts. This interactive platform thus serves as a critical tool for translating complex health data into actionable knowledge, enabling informed public health strategies and interventions.

Navigating the infodemic through digital health literacy education in schools

Abstract Background High digital health literacy (DHL) can help to navigate the internet’s vast information landscape. This research explores the impact of learning DHL in schools on students’ DHL, and how it might mitigates confusion surrounding health-related information. Moreover, this research sheds light on how learning DHL in schools influences students’ inclinations towards specific sources of health information. Methods 1448 secondary school students aged 9-18 years participated in face-to-face interviews. Associations between learning digital health literacy (DHL) and students’ DHL, comprehension of health information, sense of being informed on health topics, and utilization of diverse health information sources were evaluated using the chi-squared test. Results The learning of DHL within school settings demonstrated a significant correlation with students’ overall DHL (X2 (6) = 120.99, p < .001). Those reporting high levels of DHL learning exhibited reduced confusion regarding health information (X2 (4) = 16.65, p = .002) and felt notably more informed (X2 (4) = 231.06, p < .001). Contrasted with peers who reported insufficient learning of DHL, students with high learning reported learning more about health from parents (X2 (2) = 55.28, p < .001), peer interactions (X2 (2) = 214.51, p < .001), online sources (X2 (2) = 78.54, p < .001), influencer content (X2 (2) = 68.46, p < .001), offline literature (X2 (2) = 24.32, p < .001), television (X2 (2) = 140.36, p < .001), and in school (X2 (2) = 205.53, p < .001). However, they were less reliant on physicians for health information (X2 (2) = 53.62, p < .001). Conclusions Integrating DHL into school curricula holds promise for enhancing students’ DHL and alleviating apprehensions regarding health-related information. Moreover, such educational initiatives have the potential to expand students’ repertoire of resources for accessing health information, encompassing both digital and non-digital sources.

‘HepGenç’: A youth festival to promote health and well-being via films, photography, music, and arts

Abstract Background The ‘Lifelong Health’ framework of WHO emphasizes that investing in health during young ages fosters better health and higher quality of life in later years. When working with and for youth, using innovative and participatory approaches have become more important for effective health communication, especially in an era of increased environmental stimuli, digitalization, and decreased attention span for many young people, who are less attracted with traditional/ didactic health education and communication methods. Objectives This paper aims to share practical experiences of a multidisciplinary team of professionals with backgrounds in public health, psychiatry, communication, music, and arts, in collaboration with young people to organize a series of youth health festivals in different cities of Turkiye to promote youth health literacy and access to health care, with a special focus on mental health and well-being. Results HepGenc (ForeverYoung) Festivals are organized by academics and youth from different universities in Turkiye, in collaboration with NGOs and local municipalities of cities, where the events take place. These events encourage young people to think about health and well-being, including social and environmental determinants of health via short films, photography, music, and arts. The series of festivals use creative workshops to introduce different health and well-being topics to youth, who may not always find these issues ‘attractive.’ Social and mental health, including resilience and ability to adapt are also addressed, which help young participants to build a holistic and comprehensive look on health and its determinants. Conclusions Organizing health-focused festivals using films, photography, music, and arts encourages young people to be creative and productive, while raising their awareness on healthy lifestyles and healthy cities, and how they can be agents of positive change. Key messages • Using films, music, and arts help with greater engagement of young people and facilitates their learning, as well as their creativity and productivity. • Collaboration of health, communication, and arts professionals strengthens health communication/ education programs, with additional beneficial outcomes for all disciplines including shared learning.

Health information seeking and health literacy in midwife-led care and the modern information environment

Abstract Background This review reports on how midwives are affected by the modern digital information environment, including health misinformation, and how their knowledge or competencies assist them in navigating this for themselves and their clients, especially those who are more vulnerable and experience inequities in healthcare. Methods Leveraging a PRISMA-based systematic review, the project identifies the facilitators and barriers that the modern digital information environment poses to midwives and the care they provide to their clients. The search strategy of the peer-reviewed literature examines articles related to midwives and misinformation, social media, information environment, digital health, health information, migrant women and other related keywords that surface in searches. The timeframe from which published articles will be identified for possible inclusion are from Jan 1, 2020 to March 31, 2024. Results Both midwives and the clients they care for experience challenges in navigating the digital information environment and addressing health-related misinformation on reproductive health and pregnancy-related topics. Conclusions Midwives should receive strengthened training on digital literacy to improve the care they provide to clients and help their clients navigate a confusing and rapidly evolving information environment. Through digital and in-person interactions with their clients, midwives can improve their clients’ digital information, and health literacies.

Empowering Young Roma Women in matters of health and primary care: an innovative training program

Abstract Background Roma communities are rather diverse groups with different level of knowledge, beliefs and motivations in relation to their health. Raising awareness and self-efficacy of these individuals is a challenging field in the EU public health agenda. Objectives To address this challenge, the program entitled “Empowering Young Roma Women in matters of health, prevention and human rights: a new methodological approach” was developed with the aim to empower Roma women in terms of health and prevention topics pilot testing different educational methods. A two-step co-design approach was performed to determine the training content, tools, methods. The training was implemented in 5 areas throughout Greece (Volos, Chalkida, Thiva, Agia Varvara, Zefyri) in Jan-Oct 2023, including 3 phases: a. Train-the-trainers, b. Training the Roma women and c. Training evaluation. Results The educational material developed for health and prevention included 4 units (gynaecological health issues, vaccinations, smoking and nutrition). Each unit consisted of a theoretical background to develop the material, a presentation for future trainers, a presentation for trainees, a brochure, and a poster. For the training a new methodological approach was tested i.e. a health professional or Roma women (after being trained) to deliver the training. In total, 548 pre-post questionnaires were collected. Most trainees, understood the content of the training, acquired new knowledge and found the information interesting and possible to include in their daily life. 80% trainees expressed their satisfaction with the overall presentation. Regarding knowledge improvement based on the type of trainer only a slightly greater degree of improvement was observed for Roma trainers. Conclusions It is crucial to develop culturally appropriate health interventions by directly working with communities, to understand their particular needs, and to ensure they receive the information needed to make informed decisions. Key messages • Maintaining and promoting health is a decisive factor of social inclusion. • Tailor-made training of ethnic minorities shall be an integral part of the EU public health agenda.

2.Q. Skills building seminar: Publishing and disseminating your research: How to get published, and what then?

Abstract Getting your public health research published can be a real challenge, and the publishing process is not always clear. Often it takes a lot of time, effort and perseverance. In this skills building workshop, participants will be able to learn the ropes from the Editor-in-Chief and the Publisher (OUP) of the European Journal of Public Health (EJPH), EUPHA’s scientific Journal. The EJPH is a well-established multidisciplinary, Open Access journal that covers a broad scope of public health topics. It’s current impact factor is 4.4. The workshop will have the format of an interactive clinic and will start with short presentations by the Editor-in-Chief of the EJPH and the Publisher on how to write, how to disseminate your findings, and tools the publisher has for helping promote your research for the best impact. The Editor-in-Chief will focus on what makes manuscripts attractive to editors and reviewers, while the publisher will give an overview of the publishing process, important aspects of the wider publishing industry (including how to publish your work Open Access) and give authors tips of how to promote their articles post-publication. After that, there will be ample time for participants to ask their questions to the panellists. This skills-building workshop will be of interest to anyone who would like to increase their chances of getting published and who would like to learn more about creating impact with their publications. The session should in particular be helpful for young researchers who do not have a lot of publishing experience yet. Key messages • Think about relevance to public health, and what your research adds to science and policy. • Think about what tools you can use to disseminate your findings. Speakers/Panelists Peter Allebeck Karolinska Institute, Department of Global Public Health, Stockholm, Sweden Rachel Moriarty Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK

1.B. Round table: Artificial Intelligence in Mobile Health Apps: Ethical, Legal, and Regulatory Challenges

Abstract Globally, governments and public health authorities are integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques in mobile apps to improve public health. For example, during the COVID-19 outbreak, AI-driven chatbots were deployed to provide immediate health information and advice. AI-based mobile apps are also used to support mental health or for preventive healthcare, such as personalized dietary recommendations. Moreover, the use of generative AI for public health purposes is rapidly increasing. In 2024, the WHO launched S.A.R.A.H - a generative AI chatbot designed to provide information on major health topics such as healthy lifestyles and mental health. By integrating AI, public institutions could potentially achieve better health outcomes, improve efficiency, and enhance access to healthcare. However, the rapid adoption of AI public health apps also raises significant ethical, legal, and regulatory challenges. The large amounts of sensitive personal data collected and processed by such apps may create issues for privacy, data protection, and cybersecurity. At the same time, the tendency of AI to exhibit biases may deepen existing health inequities. The new EU ‘digital’ legal framework does not directly address these challenges. This workshop aims to convene leading experts working on AI in health to address these issues. We bring together scholars from different disciplines (health law, health policy, bioethics, biosciences). The workshop objectives are twofold: (1) to critically assess the current landscape of AI in public health apps from a legal, ethical, and regulatory point of view, and (2) to lay the groundwork for policy recommendations on how to ensure the deployment of AI apps for public health in compliance with ethical principles and fundamental rights. First, the panel explores the differences in the data protection regulation of AI public health apps in the EU and the US (speaker: James Hazel). Second, it discusses how these apps are regulated under the new EU Artificial Intelligence Act (speaker: Hannah van Kolfschooten). Third, it investigates the consequences of the European Health Data Space regulation on how health data can be processed through public health apps (speaker: Mahsa Shabani). Finally, as the cross-border use of apps complicates regulatory efforts, it discusses the need for international cooperation in establishing and enforcing guidelines (speaker: Vasiliki Rahimzadeh). The workshop will be conducted as a round table discussion with 4 short presentations of 5 minutes each. Speakers first present a key challenge posed by AI in mobile health apps, and then suggest a potential regulatory solution. This will be followed by a dialogue between panelists and the audience to share best practices on how to regulate AI in mobile public health apps from a legal, ethical, and regulatory perspective. The input will be used to develop a submission for the Call for papers of BMC Bioinformatics. Key messages • As public institutions are increasingly integrating AI technologies into their mobile public health solutions, it is crucial to evaluate the ethical, legal, and regulatory implications. • In light of current gaps in the EU legal framework, we convene scholars from different disciplines and legal systems to design guidelines on the ethical use of AI mobile apps for public health. Speakers/Panelists James Hazel University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands Mahsa Shabani University of Amsterdam, Ghent University, Amsterdam, Netherlands Hannah van Kolfschooten University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands Vasiliki Rahimzadeh Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USA Pramiti Parwani University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Designing infographics in health research with patients and the public: A scoping review

Abstract Patient and public involvement (PPI) in health research is increasing, in recognition for its potential to enhance the quality and relevance of research. To date, there has been no comprehensive review of the literature on the design of infographics with patients and the public in health research. This scoping review aims to explore the extent and nature of PPI in the design of infographics, a commonly used tool for communicating complex health information to diverse audiences. The review used Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework by Levac et al. Comprehensive searches were carried out in the following databases: Scopus, PubMed Central, Web of Science, EMBASE, CINAHL Complete, PsychINFO, and Cochrane Library. Identified citations were exported to Endnote and imported into Rayyan software for title and abstract screening. Preliminary results report a total of 738 citations imported, out of which 364 duplicates were removed and 374 citations underwent title and abstract screening. Of these, 80 citations were relevant for full-text review. Two independent reviewers evaluated full texts, resolving discrepancies through discussion or by a third reviewer. 62 studies were included in the review. Relevant data was extracted, and numeric and narrative analyses were performed to synthesize findings across included studies. The review found growing interest in PPI for health infographic design, using diverse approaches to engage patients and the public at various design stages. A wide variety of health topics were represented including disease specific topics, pain and weight gain. Common themes identified included the importance of accessibility, clarity, and cultural sensitivity in infographic development, as well as challenges related to generalisability, social desirability bias and ensuring meaningful involvement. This review offers insights and suggests further research and practice in leveraging PPI to optimize the design and impact of health infographics. Key messages • Growing Interest and Importance of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in Health Research Design. • Challenges and Opportunities in Infographic Design for Health Communication.

How factchecking organizations can partner within public health for a healthier internet

Abstract Background Health concerns, narratives and misinformation are growing in digital spaces, which makes them also a vulnerability to being hijacked by disinformation. A workshop was held at GlobalFact11, the global factchecking summit, to take a pulse among the participants on their exposure and work with health misinformation, provide a public health perspective on the role of factchecking, and equip participants with building a business case for developing health-related factchecking programmes. Methods A pre-summit survey of IFCN members and summit participants was conducted to better tune the design of the discussion in the workshop. The workshop included interactive polling and a discussion of case-based scenarios and real-world examples. Results A business case for investing into health-claim fact-checking can consider needs of public health organizations from a variety of perspectives. (1) The global health security agenda, and the politicization of health and hijacking in disinformation influence campaigns; (2) Contributing data for public health infodemic insights reports in formats that provide value to fact-checking in public health context; (3) Developing community resilience programmes by combining fact-checking with community-based interventions; (4) Building partnerships with public health organizations (for fact-checking, capacity building, community media and information literacy, research). Conclusions Many fact-checking organizations got involved in public health during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they want to access more public health expertise, tools, and partnership modalities that would enable them a more sustainable effort in covering health topics, especially beyond infectious disease.

Influencers as a new source of health information: Insights from an Austrian youth survey

Abstract Background Social media influencers (SMIs) have become the dominant source of health information for youth. While some SMIs may share valuable content, critics raise concerns that they lack expertise, have commercial motives, or hold personal biases. Yet, little is known about the epidemiology of the health influencer phenomenon. This study offers first insights into the reach of SMIs among Austrian youth, informing public health strategies to promote positive health behaviors in young populations. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with a representative sample of 1003 Austrian adolescents and young adults aged 15-25. Key research questions focus on the epidemiology of health influencers, engagement with SMIs, prevalent health topics, advertising, and perceived impact of SMIs on health. Preliminary results Participants estimate that over 51% of social media posts they see are from SMIs, and 75.37% follow at least one SMI. Additionally, 37.19% follow SMIs who specifically share health content, and 30.91% have purchased health products recommended by them (e.g., foods, supplements, beauty products). Moreover, 40.27% trust their followed SMIs for health information, similar to trust in traditional media (43.47%). Finally, over a third find SMI content beneficial for health (32.34%), while 29.20% find it harmful, and 33.83% neither. Conclusions The study provides first insights into the epidemiology of health influencers, revealing their extensive reach and positive reception among young people. Despite concerns about conflicts of interest or expertise, SMIs are perceived as trusted sources for health information and product purchases. This research enhances our understanding of influencers’ impact and informs public health strategies aimed at promoting positive health behaviors among youth. The insights from Austrian youth can inform future studies across Europe, deepening our understanding of the health influencer phenomenon and its implications for public health. Key messages • This cross-sectional study shows the high reach of social media influencers among youth and their important role as emerging sources of health information. • The study breaks new ground by investigating adolescents’ engagement with health influencers, offering insights for public health to promote positive health outcomes among young populations.

Promotion included in prevention (PIP)

Abstract Issue/problem Every year in Europe more than 20 million visits are carried out on workers. The opportunity to integrate health promotion into prevention is now under the attention of large companies, according to the American model known as Total Worker Health©. Description of the problem The main critical points of this strategy are the correct balance between promotion and prevention efforts and the extension of the projects to small companies. Furthermore, coordination is necessary between all the figures who promote health, particularly in the national health service. Results Occupational risk prevention activities, mandatory in all European countries, have been integrated with health promotion campaigns, addressing health topics chosen in a participatory way. The costs of designing the campaign, information material for employees and data processing are borne by the university, which covers the costs with research funds. No costs are borne by workers or companies. During their medical check-up in the workplace, workers are invited to fill in a questionnaire regarding the project topic, its outcome, and some related factors. Workers receive advice on how to improve their lifestyles and are referred to the National Health Service for any necessary tests or treatments. In the last 15 years, as many annual campaigns have been conducted. Projects have dealt with: Eating behavior disorders; Post-COVID syndrome; Syncope and presyncope; Headache; Musculoskeletal disorders; Work engagement; Sleep health promotion; Aging; Violence at work; Work organization; Indoor air quality; Mediterranean Diet; Hand skin disorders; Teleworking; Work Ability. More than 30,000 workers from 38 companies participated. Lessons The participatory character of the projects, their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, the integration between occupational medicine and basic medicine demonstrate that PIP projects are economical, sustainable, and effective. Key messages • Health promotion can be integrated into the prevention of occupational risks, without additional costs. • The creation of a network of occupational physicians who are involved in PIP projects respects corporate and professional independence and improves the work culture, health, and safety of workers.

Honors Track in Global and Occupational Health: a students’ perspective from Humanitas University

Abstract Background To meet an increasing interest in global health, more opportunities for medical students should be created. Humanitas University (Milan, Italy) has debuted a new extracurricular activity called “Honors Track in Global and Occupational Health” (HT-GOH), to allow students critical insights into the field at the beginning of their career. Objectives HT-GOH is a two-year programme, led by expert professors in the field. The main aim is to circumvent limitations of global health education at individual institutions, achieved through a combined presence and online approach that allows for international collaboration with experts and attendance of online lectures and travel abroad for practical experiences. Complemented by monthly meetings, participation to workshops, seminars, conferences, and the discussion and literature review of crucial global health topics. Results The six participating students are actively promoting discussions, exchange of ideas, and literature findings on many global health issues. They audited courses in other universities and are building connections within the field. The active involvement of the students and their increasing interest in the global health debate can be seen by their participation in this abstract and the conference. The effectiveness of the programme is being evaluated through monthly feedback by students. Conclusions The programme allows for an initiation to research work, promoting collaboration between students and exploration of a variety of topics under the guidance of experts. The nature of a specific programme allows for a more individualized approach and greater development of skills unique to each student. This HT represent a valid approach to global health education, especially in settings in which this field is only taught in the context of a public health course. Key messages • A new programme at Humanitas University offering an innovative approach to the field of global health to interested students. • The students’ perspective towards an integrated approach to global health in medical schools.