Influence Health Policy Research Articles

The wisdom layer: how to support evidence-informed policymaking

Abstract One of the returning challenges faced by public health scientists is bridging the ‘evidence-policy gap’-the disparity between identifying public health issues and implementing policies to address them. Despite the extensive literature documenting the challenges of promoting evidence-informed policymaking, opportunities for researchers to exchange experiences and learn from each other’s failures are limited. This presentation seeks to: (a) analyze key concepts in evidence-informed policymaking, based on the health information pyramid; (b) identify obstacles and facilitators in the translation of knowledge into actionable policy; and (c) present both successful and unsuccessful examples from our initiatives to influence health policy in Belgium. Specifically, we will discuss the concrete impact of the Belgian Health Status Report and the role this report plays in the development of actionable health objectives for Belgium. We will also cover the role of healthybelgium.be in governing and monitoring the health status of the Belgian population by discussing why this website has been recognized by WHO Europe as a model of good practice in evidence-informed policymaking.

The Role of Arts in Health Policy Advocacy

The paper investigates the critical role that the arts play in health policy advocacy, focusing on how artistic expression improves communication, encourages emotional engagement, and boosts public health programs. Health policy advocates can use artistic disciplines such as visual arts, theatre, and dance to engage with various audiences, highlight serious health challenges, and catalyse societal change. The arts provide a unique platform for marginalised people to express their health experiences, bridging the divide between public health data and community awareness. This paper examines successful case studies and discusses the obstacles to incorporating artists into health policy advocacy, specifically issues about tokenism and budget restrictions. Finally, this interdisciplinary approach shows how art can influence health policy and public perception. Keywords: Arts in health, Health policy advocacy, Creative expression, Public health communication, Marginalized voices.

National Politics' Role in Developing Primary Health Care Policy for Maternal Health in Papua New Guinea: A Qualitative Document Analysis.

Politics is one of the critical factors that influence health policy agendas. However, scholarly efforts, especially in low- and middle-income countries, rarely focus on how politics influence health policy agenda-setting. We conducted a qualitative document review to examine the factors that led to developing the free primary health care policy for maternal health in Papua New Guinea. We also discuss mechanisms through which national politics, as an overriding factor, influenced the development of the policy. The review draws on Kingdon's multiple-stream model for agenda-setting and incorporates theoretical insights from Fox and Reich's framework for analyzing the politics of health reform for universal health coverage in low- and middle-income countries.

Chronically ill patients’ perspectives on support services and activities of patient organizations

BackgroundPatient Organizations (POs) are an important support factor in helping chronically ill patients cope with their illness. Patient involvement in the management of their disease helps to achieve the best possible care for the patient, streamline the work of healthcare providers, shape healthcare policy, and even influence the structures of healthcare systems. The perspective of chronically ill patients on the activities and services provided by patient organizations has not been evaluated yet. This study aimed to identify and map the services and activities of all types of non-profit patient organizations from the perspective of chronically ill patients so that they can be integrated as an integral part of the healthcare system.MethodsNineteen services and activities of patient organizations were sampled from Israeli patient organizations and scientific literature. These services and activities were evaluated by chronically ill patients in Israel. Patient-Oriented Questionnaires (POQ) were distributed among patients with chronic diseases (N = 1395) using snowball sampling.ResultsExploratory factor analysis (EFA) was performed, followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) for convergent and discriminant validity. Findings showed that twelve services and activities suggested by patient organizations were found to represent chronically ill patients’ needs and categorized into three groups: Interpersonal support (five items), patients’ rights (four items), and medical information (three items). CFA showed a good fit for the observed data. CFI = 0.98, NFI = 0.97, TLI = 0.96, RMSEA = 0.058.ConclusionsWell-organized patient organizations are an important pillar in reformed healthcare systems. They can serve as the social arm of the healthcare system and as an intermediary between patients and healthcare institutions. We narrowed down twelve services and activities given by patient organizations that were important to chronically ill patients in Israel. patient organizations can utilize patient needs or preferences into clinical practice and influence health policy planning, patient-caregiver relationships, research and even healthcare costs. patient organizations recognition by the healthcare system, and establishment of a national patient council will help to realize these processes.

Investigating long-term health outcomes in high-level rugby union players using linked administrative data

Objective and ApproachThe Kumanu Tāngata study investigates long-term health outcomes in male high-level rugby union players in New Zealand using the Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI), a comprehensive de-identified whole-population administrative research database. A historical register containing players active between 1950-2000 was linked to the IDI. Rugby players (n=12,861) were compared to general population males (n=2,385,690), matched by age, ethnicity, and birthplace, on neurodegenerative disease outcomes from health records available between 1988-2018. Cox proportional hazards models were conducted. ResultsRugby players exhibited a higher neurodegenerative disease incidence (4.7%) than the general population (3.9%). Players had an increased risk of any neurodegenerative disease (1.17 [95% CI 1.08–1.27]), Alzheimer's disease (1.42 [95% CI 1.22–1.66]), and other dementias (1.16 [95% CI 1.05–1.27]). An increased risk of any neurodegenerative disease was observed for professional- or international-level play (HR 1.51 [95% CI 1.04–2.18]), six or more years of play (HR 1.32 [95% CI 1.15–1.50], and a backline playing position (HR 1.30 [95% CI 1.17–1.45]). ConclusionsThe study indicates a small-to-moderate increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases for high-level rugby players in New Zealand when compared to the general population, with variations observed across play duration, level and position. Future research will examine additional health outcomes, including mortality, musculoskeletal conditions, and mental health disorders. ImplicationsThis large-scale linkage study allows for a comprehensive examination of long-term health outcomes and enhanced statistical power than previous research. Findings have the potential to influence health policies and athlete care strategies in contact sports.

Dengue and malaria coinfection in a traveling patient: Case study

Introduction: Dengue and malaria are two prevalent diseases in the tropics, transmitted by vectors, and cause different morbidity and fatality rates. However, coinfection of dengue and malaria is relatively rare but clinically significant, since both diseases can have severe manifestations and their coexistence complicate diagnosis and treatment. Clinical Case: The clinical case of a male patient, 32 years old, resident in Angola, who entered Ecuador twenty-one days prior to the onset of symptoms, with no history, was hospitalized for unquantified temperature rise, myalgia, arthralgia and fatigue. His clinical picture is exacerbated with abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant and generalized rash, BP: 105/58 mmHg, HR: 108 bpm, RR: 18 rpm, pulse oximetry 98%, T°: 38°C, dry oral mucosa, expansibility of the decreased chest, dysrhythmic heart, no murmurs, painful abdomen, absent fluid sounds, extremities without edema. The rapid antigen test performed was positive for Plasmodium falciparum, thick smear positive for Plasmodium falciparum. Discussion: The simultaneous treatment of malaria and dengue required careful monitoring of warning signs and possible complications; collaboration between health professionals from Ecuador and Angola was necessary for the successful management and handling of the patient.Conclusions: Documentation of such cases should influence health policies and the planning of preventive strategies, such as vaccination, vector control, and preventive education of travelers before visiting endemic areas.

The Role of Print Media in Shaping Public Health Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review

This theoretical study investigates how health-related material in print media affects public health by synthesising current data to grasp its influence in determining public health results. Even with the digital revolution, print media including newspapers, periodicals, and pamphlets remains a major source of information. Key topics include the spread of health information, the way health concerns are framed, and the impact on public perspective and behaviour are underlined in the review. Research show that print media may influence health policy debate, increase knowledge of health concerns, and encourage good practices. Still, these results are much influenced by the accuracy, bias, and depth of the material. Print media's health-related material reflects more general social, economic, and political settings, therefore impacting its presentation and reception. Moreover, the different degrees of media literacy among the people help to control the influence of such material. The evaluation also covers ethical obligations of print media in health communication as well as the possibility of false information. This study offers a complete framework for comprehending the intricate interaction between print media and public health by combining theoretical viewpoints from psychology, public health, and communication studies. The results underline the importance of planned, evidence-based health communication in print media to improve its favourable influence on public health outcomes.

TDAH en France : la place des associations de patients et familles

The patient association HyperSupers TDAH France, founded in 2002 and recognized as a public utility, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals with ADHD and their families. It provides personalized support, responding to over 11,000 requests in 2023, and educates the public through its vastly visited website. HyperSupers TDAH France also holds significant advocacy power. It has contributed to the development of the recommendations by the Haute Autorité de Santé – HAS – (French National Authority for Health) and actively participates in various health institutions to influence health policies. The association works in research, education, employment, and law to ensure recognition of ADHD and support for affected individuals. Collaborating with healthcare professionals and researchers, HyperSupers fosters a better understanding of ADHD and its management. It is actively involved in the national strategy on neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD). The association's main requests include establishing an ADHD research cohort, improving professional training, ensuring early diagnosis and interventions, and taking actions to enhance the academic and professional lives of individuals with ADHD. HyperSupers also advocates for changes in university curricula and for better consideration of the specific needs of individuals with ADHD in public policies.

Risk factors for non-communicable diseases in Afghanistan: insights of the nationwide population-based survey in 2018

BackgroundNoncommunicable diseases (NCDs) account for a substantial number of deaths in Afghanistan. Understanding the prevalence and correlates of major NCD risk factors could provide a benchmark for future public health policies and programs to prevent and control NCDs. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the prevalence and correlates of NCD risk factors among adults aged 18–69 years in Afghanistan.MethodsWe used data from the Afghanistan STEPS Survey 2018. The study population were 3650 (1896 males and 1754 females) adults aged 18–69 years sampled from all 34 provinces through a multistage cluster sampling process. Information on behavioural and biological risk factors was collected. We used STATA (version 18.0) for data analysis.ResultsOf the total participants, 42.8% were overweight or obese, 8.6% were current smokers, 26.9% had insufficient physical activities, 82.6% had low consumption of fruits and vegetables, and only 0.5% had ever consumed alcohol. Approximately 15% of participants had a high salt intake, while 25% and 8% had elevated blood pressure and blood glucose levels, respectively. Similarly, around 18% had elevated total cholesterol. The study revealed a lower prevalence of current smoking among females [AOR = 0.17, 95%CI (0.09–0.30)] compared with males, but a higher prevalence in those who had higher education levels [1.95 (1.13–3.36)] compared with those with no formal education. Insufficient physical activity was higher in participants aged 45–69 years [1.96 (1.39–2.76)], females [4.21 (1.98–8.84)], and urban residents [2.38 (1.46–3.88)] but lower in those with higher education levels [0.60 (0.37–0.95)]. Participants in the 25th to 75th wealth percentiles had higher odds of low fruit and vegetable consumption [2.11 (1.39–3.21)], while those in the > 75th wealth percentile had lower odds of high salt intake [0.63 (0.41–0.98)]. Being overweight/obese was more prevalent in participants aged 45–69 years [1.47 (1.03–2.11)], females [1.42 (0.99–2.01)], currently married [3.56 (2.42–5.21)] or ever married [5.28 (2.76–10.11)], and urban residents [1.39 (1.04–1.86)]. Similarly, high waist circumference was more prevalent in participants aged 45–69 years [1.86 (1.21–2.86)], females [5.91 (4.36–8.00)], those being currently married [4.82 (3.12–7.46)], and those being in 25th to 75th wealth percentile [1.76 (1.27–2.43)]. A high prevalence of elevated blood pressure was observed in participants aged 45–69 years [3.60 (2.44–5.31)] and currently married [2.31 (1.24–4.31)] or ever married [6.13 (2.71–13.8)] participants. Elevated blood glucose was more prevalent in older adults ([1.92 (1.09–3.39)] for 45–69 and [3.45 (2.44–5.31)] for 30–44 years), urban residents [2.01 (1.33–3.03)], and ever-married participants [4.89 (1.48–16.2)]. A higher prevalence of elevated cholesterol was observed in females [2.68 (1.49–4.82)] and those currently married [2.57 (1.17–5.63)] or ever married [4.24 (1.31–13.73)].ConclusionThis study used up-to-date available data from a nationally representative sample and identified the prevalence of NCDs and associated risk factors in Afghanistan. Our findings have the potential to inform and influence health policies by identifying people at high risk of developing NCDs and can assist policymakers, health managers, and clinicians to design and implement targeted health interventions.

The process of developing and implementing health and nursing policy: Implications of research and opportunities to influence.

To provide insight into the process of developing health and nursing policy and how that process can be influenced by both researchers and nursing leaders. Nurses care for people across the life course from birth to death, in our communities, hospitals, care homes and schools. They have unique insight into how people live their lives and how this affects their health. Despite being well placed to influence health policy, nurses often fail to capitalise on this. At the same time, academics often struggle to identify the policy implications of their research resulting in further missed opportunities to use policy influence. Classical policy theory, which is predominantly drawn from economics and public administration together with a range of contemporary nursing and health policy studies, is used in this paper to discuss the policy process and opportunities to influence. Researchers need to focus on realistic policy suggestions that aim to raise awareness, highlight policy problems or set the agenda. In turn, nursing leaders, from National Nursing Associations, need to harness evidence to support their efforts to influence policy. In terms of influence, a range of approaches exist, and each lends itself to different parts of the policy cycle. The role nurses can play in health policy is not well developed in many countries. Nursing researchers and leaders are well placed to influence policy but must do so in a clear and pragmatic way recognising that policymakers make decisions despite being faced with conflicting evidence, competing demands and economic imperatives. Recognising that nurses can offer much in terms of policy development, the paper argues that a pragmatic approach based on different forms of influence at different stages is likely to be most successful. The evidence reviewed in this paper suggests that nursing academics and leaders need to identify realistic policy interventions when examining their own empirical work or identifying ways to individually or collectively influence policymakers.

Kebijakan Kesehatan di Indonesia: Tinjauan, Tantangan, dan Rekomendasi

The Indonesian government has made various efforts to overcome this health problem, such as through the National Health Insurance (JKN) program which aims to provide more equitable access to health services for the entire population. This study aims to identify and analyze key health policies in Indonesia, as well as evaluate the successes and challenges in their implementation. The research method uses the literature review method to analyze, identify and analyze key health policies in Indonesia, as well as evaluate the successes and challenges in their implementation. The research method uses the literature review method to analyze, identify and analyze key health policies in Indonesia, as well as evaluate the successes and challenges in their implementation. Literature review is an effective method for collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing information from various sources relevant to the research topic. The results of the study show that the importance of health policies in Indonesia to improve public health. Through the identification of key health policies, evaluation of their successes, and challenges in their implementation, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the political dynamics that influence health policies. In conclusion, by identifying key health policies, evaluating their success, and facing challenges in their implementation, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the political dynamics that influence health policies.

The Role of Young Doctors' Health Parliament as an effective policy tool in Tackling NCDs: An innovative approach

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasingly recognized as a severe public health concern threatening the human race, development, and quality of life. In the last three decades, Years of healthy life lost due to disability (YLD) has witnessed a significant shift from Communicable diseases towards NCDs and injuries (1). Globally, the economic burden of NCDs is projected to rise to over 13 trillion dollars by the year 2030, and every 10% hike in NCDs is expected to cause a 0.5% decline in global economic growth(2). The poor and disadvantaged population is disproportionately affected by NCDs, contributing to increased health disparities within and between nations (3). In low- and middle-income countries like India, NCDs are expected to diminish their GDP by 1% to 5% annually(3). The novel concept of the Young Doctors' Health Parliament (YDHP) is uniquely positioned to leverage the fresh perspectives and energetic engagement of young medical professionals who are at the forefront of encountering and managing NCDs. This article explores how the Young Doctors' Health Parliament serves as a pivotal mechanism for young doctors to influence health policy, thereby playing a crucial role in mitigating the NCD burden that disproportionately affects their peers and younger generations.

Utilizing Competency-Based Education to Evaluate the Research Skills of Nursing Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Exploring and implementing competency-based education approaches to assess research skills are necessary to close the gap between research and practice, promote lifelong learning among future nurses, and improve research literacy. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of competency-based education in improving the assessment of research skills among nursing students. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcomes and Study (PICOS) eligibility criteria were used to select original studies published between 2017 and 2023. As a first step in the data-handling process, titles and abstracts of all articles retrieved by the search strategy were screened for relevance, and the irrelevant articles were discarded. The screening process was conducted by two authors independently, and the final decisions were made together. A meta-analysis was performed to assess the effectiveness of competency-based education in improving the assessment of research skills among nursing students. Five quantitative studies were appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. The effect size was 0.69 ± 0.35 (P = 0.05), which indicates a high effect on research competency among nursing students who attend courses or training in research matters, after transforming data to correlation coefficient resulting in r = 0.5. The study encourages research literacy among nursing students. Through competency-based learning, students are exposed to a variety of research methodologies, ethical issues, and scientific writing conventions. This exposure enhances their capacity to understand, assess, and apply research evidence, empowering them to become knowledgeable consumers and field contributors. While making evidence-based decisions, nurses with research competencies can actively incorporate the most recent research findings into their clinical practice. Furthermore, nurses with strong research abilities can influence health policy and practice.

Perspectives on AI-based recommendations for mask-wearing and COVID-19 vaccination for transplant recipients in the post-COVID-19 era

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the ongoing necessity for preventive measures such as mask-wearing and vaccination remains particularly critical for organ transplant recipients, a group highly susceptible to infections due to immunosuppressive therapy. Given that many individuals nowadays increasingly utilize Artificial Intelligence (AI), understanding AI perspectives is important. Thus, this study utilizes AI, specifically ChatGPT 4.0, to assess its perspectives in offering precise health recommendations for mask-wearing and COVID-19 vaccination tailored to this vulnerable population. Through a series of scenarios reflecting diverse environmental settings and health statuses in December 2023, we evaluated the AI’s responses to gauge its precision, adaptability, and potential biases in advising high-risk patient groups. Our findings reveal that ChatGPT 4.0 consistently recommends mask-wearing in crowded and indoor environments for transplant recipients, underscoring their elevated risk. In contrast, for settings with fewer transmission risks, such as outdoor areas where social distancing is possible, the AI suggests that mask-wearing might be less imperative. Regarding vaccination guidance, the AI strongly advocates for the COVID-19 vaccine across most scenarios for kidney transplant recipients. However, it recommends a personalized consultation with healthcare providers in cases where patients express concerns about vaccine-related side effects, demonstrating an ability to adapt recommendations based on individual health considerations. While this study provides valuable insights into the current AI perspective on these important topics, it is crucial to note that the findings do not directly reflect or influence health policy. Nevertheless, given the increasing utilization of AI in various domains, understanding AI’s viewpoints on such critical matters is essential for informed decision-making and future research.

A systematic review of the experience of treatment burden of digital health for military personnel in primary healthcare.

Background Digital Health (DH) integrates digital technologies into healthcare to increase efficiency and improve patient experiences, benefiting both primary care and military healthcare systems. However, it raises concerns about the potential shift of healthcare responsibilities onto patients, creating workloads or treatment burdens that affect care, adherence, equity, and resource allocation. It is critical to assess this in the military context to enhance patient-centred care and outcomes. Objective To understand military personnel’s experience of treatment burden of DH in primary care, to understand the barriers and facilitators of the use of DH, and to map barriers identified to the Burden of Treatment Theory (BOTT). Design A systematic literature review. MEDLINE, Psych INFO, EMBASE, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Google Scholar will be searched. Two independent reviewers will screen papers using inclusion and exclusion criteria, with conflicts decided by a third reviewer. Any retrieved study that meets the inclusion and exclusion criteria will be quality appraised using the appropriate Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist. The findings will be analysed using thematic synthesis and evaluated in the context of the Burden of Treatment Theory. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocol (PRISMA) guidelines have been adhered to in the production of this protocol. Conclusions Understanding the experience of treatment burden whilst using DH in the military has the potential to influence health policy, the commissioning of services and interventions, and most importantly, improve patient experience and health outcomes. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023494297.

Trends in Demographic and Geographic Disparities in Stroke Mortality Among Older Adults in the United States

Stroke is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States (US) among older adults. However, the impact of demographic and geographic risk factors remains ambiguous. A clear understanding of these associations and updated trends in stroke mortality can influence health policies and interventions. This study characterizes stroke mortality among older adults (age ≥ 55) in the US from January 1999 to December 2020, sourcing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research. Segmented regression was used to analyze trends in crude mortality rate (CMR) and age-adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) per 100,000 individuals stratified by stroke subcategory, sex, ethnicity, urbanization, and state. 3,691,305 stroke deaths occurred in older adults in the US between 1999 and 2020 (AAMR = 233.3), with an overall decrease in AAMR during these years. The highest mortality rates were seen in non-specified stroke (AAMR = 173.5), those 85 or older (CMR = 1276.7), men (AAMR = 239.2), non-Hispanic African American adults (AAMR = 319.0), and noncore populations (AAMR = 276.1). Stroke mortality decreased in all states from 1999 to 2019 with the greatest and least decreases seen in California (-61.9%) and Mississippi (-35.0%), respectively. The COVID-19 pandemic saw increased stroke deaths in most groups. While there's a decline in stroke-related deaths among US older adults, outcome disparities remain across demographic and geographic sectors. The surge in stroke deaths during COVID-19 reaffirms the need for policies that address these disparities.

Exploring the Viability and Acceptance of Nudge in Public Policies for Health Promotion.

Behaviorally informed interventions, such as nudging, encourage actions intended to promote longer and healthier lives. Holding significant potential for influencing health policies and healthcare practices, these interventions are partaking of a shift in governance and public health policymaking. However, a substantial knowledge gap remains regarding the feasibility and appropriateness of implementing policies that draw on nudge. Ae survey on nudge's acceptability) was adapted to the Portuguese context to access attitudes towards 16 nudge measures. The research focused on evaluating attitudes among political science and public administration BSc and MSc students from nine Portuguese universities, and analyzing the relationship between these attitudes, sociodemographic characteristics, and sociopolitical attitudes. The data analysis involved the application of descriptive and inferential statistics. The participants exhibited a moderate-to-high level of approval for various nudge measures, particularly those related to nutrition and public education/awareness raising. The study identified a nuanced relationship between the level of intrusiveness of nudges and their public approval, indicating that interventions preserving the architecture of choice gathered higher acceptance compared to more intrusive approaches. Notably, approval was associated with a high level of trust in social groups and a low propensity for risk-taking and alcohol consumption. This study not only sheds light on the types of nudge measures that are likely to be more acceptable for promoting healthy behaviors, but also establishes a crucial link between behavioral interventions and healthcare policies. Understanding the nuanced factors influencing the public acceptance of nudges contributes to the discourse on the implementation of behaviorally informed health policies and emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to align with public values and preferences.

Setting new priorities for nursing research: The updated Swiss Nursing Research Agenda-a systematic, participative approach.

To identify current key areas for nursing research in Switzerland, we revised the Swiss Research Agenda for Nursing (SRAN) initially published in 2008. By developing a research agenda, nursing researchers internationally prioritize and cluster relevant topics within the research community. The process should be collaborative and systematic to provide credible information for decisionmakers in health care research, policy, and practice. After a participative, systematic, and critical evaluation within and outside of the Swiss Association for Nursing Science, the updated SRAN 2019-2029 defines four research priorities (new models of care, nursing care interventions, work and care environment, and quality of care and patient safety) and four transversal themes (organization of research, research methodologies, research in health care policy and public health perspectives). Adding to other national nursing research agendas, the categories are organized in a framework of key research priorities and transversal themes. They relate to the importance of global and local foci of research as well as challenges in health care services and policy systems. The agenda is an important prerequisite for enhancing the influence of nursing research in Switzerland and provides guidance for the next decade. The revised agenda ensures that research projects target key knowledge gaps and the discipline's core questions in respective countries. Nursing research should inform and influence health policy on all institutional and political levels. Therefore, the integration of public health perspectives in research is one of the most important new aspects of SRAN 2019-2029.

Predictors associated with successful weaning of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and mortality in adult patients with severe acute lung failure: Protocol of a pooled data analysis of cohort studies.

Severe acute lung failure (ALF) often necessitates veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO), where identifying predictors of weaning success and mortality remains crucial yet challenging. The study aims to identify predictors of weaning success and mortality in adults undergoing VV-ECMO for severe ALF, a gap in current clinical knowledge. PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials will be searched for cohort studies examining the predictive factors of successful weaning and mortality in adult patients on VV-ECMO due to severe ALF. Risk of bias assessment will be conducted using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for each included study. The primary outcomes will be successful weaning from VV-ECMO and all-cause mortality. Between-study heterogeneity will be evaluated using the I2 statistic. Sensitivity, subgroup, and meta-regression analyses will be performed to ascertain potential sources of heterogeneity and assess the robustness of our results. We will use the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations (GRADE) tool to recommend the level of evidence. This study seeks to provide clinically significant insights into predictors for weaning and mortality during VV-ECMO treatment for ALF, aiming to support clinical decisions and potentially influence health policy, thereby improving patient outcomes. Given the absence of direct engagement with human subjects or access to personal medical records, ethical approval for this study is deemed unnecessary. The study findings will be shared at a scientific conference either at the global or national level. Alternatively, the results will be presented for publication in a rigorously peer-reviewed journal regarding critical care medicine.

Sexual and reproductive health research capacity strengthening programs in low- and middle-income countries: A scoping review.

Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) research capacity strengthening (RCS) programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are needed to foster the discovery of context-specific solutions to improve patient outcomes and population health. There remains a limited understanding of SRH research strengthening programs to raise skill sets, publications, and infrastructure and ultimately influence health policy and patient outcomes in LMICs. More information is needed to understand how SRH research is sustained after program completion. To inform efforts to implement programs that strengthen SRH research and foster sustainability, we conducted a scoping review to identify and synthesize strategies used in SRH research strengthening programs in LMICs. A literature search of nine scholarly databases was conducted. We synthesized data extracted from included articles and presented results highlighting the format, duration, and topics covered of program interventions to strengthen SRH research in LMICs. We organized information about primary outcomes into themes and summarized how SRH research capacity was sustained after program completion. Twenty-four articles were included in the scoping review. The articles generally focused on outcomes within the themes of advocacy/capacity, education, policy, project life cycle, and writing/publication. Few articles reported metrics or other evidence of long-term program sustainability of SRH RCS projects in LMICs. Results from this scoping review can be used to strengthen SRH research programs in LMICs. More energy must be directed toward correcting power imbalances in capacity strengthening initiatives. To address additional gaps, future directions for research should include an exploration of SRH research mentorship, the cost of SRH RCS interventions, and how to foster institutional support.