Information For Healthcare Professionals Research Articles

Relative Bioavailability Studies With Mitapivat: Formulation and Food Effect Assessments in Healthy Subjects.

Pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency is a rare, hereditary, hemolytic anemia caused by mutations in the PKLR gene encoding the PK enzyme. Mitapivat (previously designated AG-348) is a first-in-class, oral, allosteric activator of PK. We report results from 5 Phase 1 trials in healthy adults to characterize and compare mitapivat pharmacokinetics across different formulations and analyze food effects on mitapivat bioavailability (Studies 1-5). Pharmacokinetic assessments were peak exposure, total exposure, time to maximum plasma concentration of mitapivat, and relative bioavailability (where appropriate). Plasma total exposure of mitapivat was similar in the fasted and fed (high-fat meal or different soft foods) states after capsule, tablet, and pediatric granule formulations. Although mitapivat administration with food reduced the rate of mitapivat absorption (delay in time to maximum plasma concentration; reduction in maximum concentration) versus dosing under fasted conditions, this was not considered clinically relevant, given the lack of effect on total mitapivat exposure. Consequently, the administration instructions for mitapivat relating to food state that "patients may take mitapivat tablets with or without food." These findings will continue to inform clinical studies and development of mitapivat in adult and pediatric patients with hemolytic anemias and may help inform healthcare professionals on mitapivat dosing/administration recommendations in clinical practice.

Hypertension and its determinants in Abu Dhabi population: a retrospective cohort study.

Preventing high blood pressure and its complications requires identifying its risk factors. This study assessed predictors of hypertension and its associated complications among Emirati adults in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). This retrospective cohort study was conducted by retrieving data from the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) of Emiratis who participated in a national cardiovascular screening program between 2011 and 2013. The study cohort comprised 8456 Emirati adults (18 years and above): 4095 women and 4361 men. The average follow-up period was 9.2 years, with a maximum of 12 years. The age-adjusted hypertension prevalence in Abu Dhabi increased from 24.5% at baseline to 35.2% in 2023. At baseline, 61.8% of hypertensive patients had controlled blood pressure, which increased to 74.3% in 2023. Among those free from hypertension at screening, 835 patients (12.3%) were newly diagnosed during the follow-up period. Using Cox regression, the hypertension prediction model developed included age [P value <0.001, hazard ratio 1.051, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.046-1.056], SBP (P value <0.001, hazard ratio 1.017, 95% CI 1.011-1.023) and DBP (P value <0.001, hazard ratio 1.029, 95% CI 1.02-1.037), glycated hemoglobin (P < 0.001, hazard ratio 1.132, 95% CI 1.077-1.191), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P value <0.001, hazard ratio 0.662, 95% CI 0.526-0.832). This prediction model had a c-statistic of 0.803 (95% CI 0.786-0.819). Using survival analysis (Kaplan-Meier), higher blood pressure was associated with more cardiovascular events and mortality during follow-up. Targeting population-specific predictors of hypertension can prevent its progression and inform healthcare professionals and policymakers to decrease the incidence, complications, and mortality related to hypertension.

Gastric cancer in Spain: evaluating productivity loss and economic impact

Introduction In 2018, gastric cancer (GC) was estimated to account for over 1.03 million new cases globally, making it one of the most frequently diagnosed malignancies. In Spain, about 6,913 new cases were diagnosed in 2022. GC is an aggressive cancer originating in the stomach and ranks fifth in cancer incidence and third in cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite treatment, only 25% of patients survive more than 5 years after diagnosis. Methods To estimate the economic impact of premature mortality due to GC, the human capital method was employed. This approach involved collecting data on mortality rates, average salaries, and unemployment rates. The study spanned a 10-year period, from 2013 to 2022, to integrate the latest and most pertinent data for analysis. The goal was to quantify the economic consequences GC-related deaths, providing valuable information for policy makers and healthcare professionals. Results GC caused 51,814 deaths over the study period with a slight annual decline, predominantly affecting men. Approximately 23% of deaths occurred among people of working age, amounting to a total of 122,632 YPLL. In economic terms, GC deaths accounted for costs of €1,239.34 million in 2013, rising to €1,242.04 million by 2021, for a total of €11,469.07 million over the study period. Conclusions The incidence of gastrointestinal cancers has decline in some types, but they remain a substantial public health challenge. These findings underline the significant health and economic challenges posed by GC, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on both individuals and healthcare systems.

Radiation information, protection and awareness of healthcare professionals in terms of occupational health and safety: a two–center survey study

Abstract The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, protection and awareness of radiation among healthcare professionals. A total of 413 healthcare professionals from two major training and research hospitals in Istanbul took part in the study. The sample consisted of 26.6% physicians and 73.4% other healthcare professionals. There was considerable variation in the knowledge of radiation content in imaging techniques, with correct response rates of 89.3% for Computed Tomography, 80.1% for digital x-ray, and 52.8% for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. While 69.5% of respondents provided correct answers to questions regarding radiation protection principles, 64.4% demonstrated a lack of sufficient knowledge in this area. It is noteworthy that 48.4% of respondents incorrectly identified the medical imaging technique to which the public is most exposed. It was concluded that further training on radiation-related issues should be provided at the university level and through in-service training for healthcare professionals.

Investigating stress, social support, and decisional conflict dynamics in surrogates of intensive care unit patients with cancer.

The purpose of this study is to examine fluctuations in stress, social support, and decisional conflict among surrogates during the admission and discharge phases of intensive care unit (ICU) patients with cancer. Additionally, this study seeks to identify the factors that influence changes in decisional conflict experienced by these surrogates. This study involved surrogates of ICU patients with cancer. Data were collected within three days of ICU admission and during the discharge phase. The study included 115 surrogates of ICU patients with cancer. Following ICU discharge, the surrogates experienced a significant reduction in mean stress levels (t = - 7.205; p < .001), improved family support (t = 3.748; p < .001), and decreased support from healthcare professionals (t = - 3.286; p = .001). Younger surrogates, high-stress levels in surrogates, and low social support from healthcare professionals were associated with high decisional conflict. Stepwise multiple regression analysis indicated that surrogates' age, changes in stress, and changes in healthcare professionals' support explained 5%, 8%, and 16% of the variation in changes in decisional conflict, respectively. To effectively reduce decisional conflict, particularly during the transition of patients with cancer from the ICU, a robust support system and comprehensive information on the treatment and prognosis of diseases in patients with cancer should be provided to younger surrogates. Healthcare professionals can facilitate family meetings and ensure comprehensive communication of the treatment plan. Practical guidance, social work assistance, timely clarification, and thorough information healthcare professionals provide can effectively mitigate decisional conflicts and enhance decision-making processes.

A-233 Update to the Cutaneous Lymphoma Application (CLApp v2.0) on iPhone. A resource tool for information and training for healthcare professionals

A-233 Update to the Cutaneous Lymphoma Application (CLApp v2.0) on iPhone. A resource tool for information and training for healthcare professionals

Intra- and inter-facility experiences of coordinating care for patients with lung cancer in KwaZulu-Natal public health facilities: a qualitative study

Aim Despite evidence that effective cancer care coordination has yielded positive results in facilitating and supporting high-quality care, it remains a complex and challenging system to implement. South Africa’s mortality of lung cancer is reported at 13.4%, ranking highest among all cancers. Coordinating the care of cancer patients is complex and can last several months or years, with multiple consultations, rounds of treatment, and follow-up in various settings. With so many health professionals, services, and settings involved, the care of these patients can become fragmented and uncoordinated. This interface between primary and specialty care offers a valuable opportunity to appreciate the challenges of delivering well-coordinated cancer care. Consequently, this paper explores healthcare professionals’ perspectives on coordinating lung cancer care within and between healthcare services. Methods This study was conducted through virtual, telephonic, and face-to-face in-depth interviews with 26 purposively selected participants from primary to tertiary health professionals, using a semi-structured tool and drawing from grounded theory design. Data generation and analysis were conducted iteratively, followed by systematic thematic analysis to organise data, review, and interpret the findings. Findings The overall public health system challenges reported by participants involved service fragmentation, staff shortages, and communication problems. Drivers of lack of care coordination varied widely across healthcare professionals, with interoperability and communication challenges standing out as the most prominent themes. Consequently, better communication, interoperability, and improved care transitions between providers and health systems were proposed. This study provides pertinent information for policymakers and healthcare professionals to develop appropriate strategies for improving cancer care coordination interventions. Conclusions A fundamental change is required to shift the direction of the KwaZulu-Natal public health system towards responsive, patient-centred, comprehensive, and coordinated care. Enabling the primary healthcare level to play a substantial role in care coordination may provide a plausible intervention to circumvent healthcare complexities.

Healthcare Professionals' Knowledge, Skills, and Information Needs Pertaining to Hearing Loss and Hearing Aids in Swedish Nursing Homes: A Cross-Sectional Study and Psychometric Evaluation.

Hearing loss increases with age and due to increased life expectancy there is an increase in the number of individuals living with hearing loss. Older people with hearing loss residing in nursing homes are often dependent on healthcare professionals to help them with their hearing aids. The aim of the study was to translate and test the psychometric properties of a Swedish version of a Norwegian questionnaire and to assess healthcare professionals' self-reported knowledge, experience, skills, competence, and information needs pertaining to residents' hearing loss and hearing aids in the Swedish context. A Norwegian questionnaire was translated and adapted, and thereafter distributed to healthcare professionals in nine nursing homes in mid Sweden between 2020 and 2021, and 313 questionnaires were returned. An exploratory factor analysis demonstrated adequate factorial structure in six factors, satisfying construct validity and internal consistency for the Swedish version. A confirmatory factor analysis showed a satisfactory model fit. Healthcare professionals reported having the skills required for handling hearing aids, but reported lower scores for having received information about hearing aids, taking initiatives to refer residents to hearing healthcare units, and checking for earwax. Registered nurses generally reported lower perceived knowledge and practical skills concerning hearing aids. Seventy-seven percent of the total group reported a need for information regarding hearing aid maintenance. Healthcare professionals reported that the majority of nursing home residents need help with their hearing aids, but only a minority of these professionals had received education on hearing loss and training in hearing aid maintenance. Enrolled nurses and care assistants demonstrated higher levels of competence in handling hearing aids compared to registered nurses. In order to ensure safe and effective care, as well as facilitate communication among older adults with hearing loss, healthcare professionals need appropriate education and training.

Improving the communication of multifactorial cancer risk assessment results for different audiences: a co-design process.

Multifactorial cancer risk prediction tools, such as CanRisk, are increasingly being incorporated into routine healthcare. Understanding risk information and communicating risk is challenging and healthcare professionals rely substantially on the outputs of risk prediction tools to communicate results. This work aimed to produce a new CanRisk report so users can directly access key information and communicate risk estimates effectively. Over a 13-month period, we led an 8-step co-design process with patients, the public, and healthcare professionals. Steps comprised 1) think aloud testing of the original CanRisk report; 2) structured feedback on the original report; 3) literature review; 4) development of a new report prototype; 5) first round of structured feedback; 6) updating the new report prototype; 7) second round of structured feedback; and 8) finalising and publishing the new CanRisk report. We received 56 sets of feedback from 34 stakeholders. Overall, the original CanRisk report was not suitable for patients and the public. Building on the feedback, the new report has an overview of the information presented: section one summarises key information for individuals; sections two and three present information for healthcare professionals in different settings. New features also include explanatory text, definitions, graphs, keys and tables to support the interpretation of the information. This co-design experience shows the value of collaboration for the successful communication of complex health information. As a result, the new CanRisk report has the potential to better support shared decision-making processes about cancer risk management across clinical settings.

The role of the pharmacist during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic: an updated scoping review

Abstract Objective To identify new articles that describe services provided by pharmacists during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods An update scoping review was conducted in MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, LILACS, and Google Scholar between 21 May 2020 and 31 May 2021. Study selection and data extraction were performed by two independent authors. DEPICT v. 2 was used to characterize the components of pharmacists’ interventions. It was also verified whether the articles evaluated outcomes of care. Key findings A total of 8983 records were identified, of which 120 met the inclusion criteria. The hospital was the workplace of the pharmacist most often described (55%). The majority of articles (73.3%) described the main domains of DEPICT v.2. Pharmacists provided interventions for patients (27.5%), healthcare professionals (25.8%), both (34.2%), individually (84.2%), through face-to-face contact (44.2%), and followed by telephone (41.7%). The main actions included patient counseling (56.7%), drug supply management (42.5%), and drug information for healthcare professionals (40.8%). Less than half of the articles (36.6%) evaluated the dimension “outcomes of care” of the study population. Conclusion Although most of the articles reported the pharmacists’ interventions, the description is still not satisfactory. In addition, the majority of articles focused solely on the dimension “process of care”. Future research should provide more detailed descriptions of the pharmacists’ interventions and assess the effectiveness of their interventions.

Caregiver burden after stroke: a 10-year follow-up study of Polish caregivers for stroke patients

BackgroundA long-term assessment of stroke outcomes from the perspectives of patients and their caregivers is important for optimising long-term post-stroke care. The extended effects of stroke caregiving, particularly caregiver burden beyond 5 years since stroke, remain to be determined. Hence, this study aimed to determine caregiver burden at 10 years after stroke, compare the burden severity at 10 years with its levels at 5 years and 6 months after stroke, and identify predictors of the burden severity at 10 years post-stroke.MethodsA longitudinal follow-up study including a group of first-ever stroke patients/informal continuous caregivers pairs was followed for 10 years and interviewed face-to face at their home setting.Caregiver burden was evaluated with the Caregiver Burden Scale. Potential predictors were examined using standardised measures and identified by applying the Classification and Regression Tree.ResultsA total of 40 caregiver/patient pairs participated in the study. At 10 years, 47.5% of the caregivers experienced a considerable burden. This was more than after 5 years (17.5%) and comparable to that after 6 months (37.5%), p < 0.003. Longer time spent caregiving, caregivers’ weaker sense of coherence, more severe stroke, and caregivers’ anxiety were the independent predictors of considerable burden 10 years after stroke.ConclusionsCaregivers’ burden in the late chronic post-stroke phase is a significant problem, as nearly half of the caregivers experience a substantial burden. This problem mainly concerns individuals who spend at least 7 h daily caregiving and have a lower Sense of Coherence.The long-term evaluation of stroke consequences reported by stroke patients and their caregivers can be an important source of information for healthcare professionals in order to optimise the care and support they provide at various stages of life after stroke.

New Insights Concerning Phytophotodermatitis Induced by Phototoxic Plants.

The present review explores the underlying mechanisms of phytophotodermatitis, a non-immunologic skin reaction triggered by certain plants followed by exposure to ultraviolet radiation emitted by sunlight. Recent research has advanced our understanding of the pathophysiology of phytophotodermatitis, highlighting the interaction between plant-derived photosensitizing compounds (e.g., furanocoumarins and psoralens) and ultraviolet light leading to skin damage (e.g., erythema, fluid blisters, edema, and hyperpigmentation), identifying these compounds as key contributors to the phototoxic reactions causing phytophotodermatitis. Progress in understanding the molecular pathways involved in the skin's response to these compounds has opened avenues for identifying potential therapeutic targets suitable for the management and prevention of this condition. The review emphasizes the importance of identifying the most common phototoxic plant families (e.g., Apiaceae, Rutaceae, and Moraceae) and plant species (e.g., Heracleum mantegazzianum, Ruta graveolens, Ficus carica, and Pastinaca sativa), as well as the specific phytochemical compounds responsible for inducing phytophototoxicity (e.g., limes containing furocoumarin have been linked to lime-induced photodermatitis), underscoring the significance of recognizing the dangerous plant sources. Moreover, the most used approaches and tests for accurate diagnosis such as patch testing, Wood's lamp examination, or skin biopsy are presented. Additionally, preventive measures such as adequate clothing (e.g., long-sleeved garments and gloves) and treatment strategies based on the current knowledge of phytophotodermatitis including topical and systemic therapies are discussed. Overall, the review consolidates recent findings in the field, covering a diverse array of phototoxic compounds in plants, the mechanisms by which they trigger skin reactions, and the implications for clinical management. By synthesizing these insights, we provide a comprehensive understanding of phytophotodermatitis, providing valuable information for both healthcare professionals and researchers working to address this condition.

Cardiovascular Side Effects of COVID‑19 Vaccination

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on global health, with vaccination playing a crucial role in mitigating the spread of the virus and reducing the severity of illness. However, the potential cardiovascular side effects associated with COVID-19 vaccination have raised concerns. Myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, is one of the most widely reported side effects, particularly among male adolescents and young adults, following the second dose of mRNA vaccines. The incidence of myocarditis post-vaccination ranges from 150 to 4,000 cases per 100,000 individuals, higher than the pre-pandemic estimate of 1-10 cases per 100,000. Other cardiovascular complications such as pericarditis and stroke have also been reported in a small subset of vaccine recipients. Although these side effects are often acute and transient, they can be severe and even fatal in some cases. Understanding the incidence, clinical presentation, and long-term outcomes of these cardiovascular side effects is crucial for informing healthcare professionals and the public about the potential risks and benefits of the COVID-19 vaccination. Ongoing research and surveillance are essential to better understand the underlying mechanisms, identify risk factors, and develop strategies for preventing and managing adverse events, while maintaining public trust in the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines.Search Methods: This review was conducted by searching the WHO database and other relevant medical literature for studies published from 2000 to 2024 that reported on cardiovascular side effects of COVID-19 vaccination. Conclusion: Several studies have investigated the incidence of myocarditis, pericarditis, and stroke in individuals who received the COVID‑19 vaccines. Although the overall risk appears relatively low, cardiovascular complications have been reported in a small subset of vaccine recipients, particularly among younger individuals. These effects are often acute and transient but can be severe and even fatal in a few cases. Herein, we have provided a comprehensive review of documents reporting cardiovascular side effects of COVID-19 vaccines in international databases from 2000 to 2024 and discussed the possible causes of these disorders.

Patients' Identification, Management and Prevention of Adverse Drug Reactions: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Patients with Severe Adverse Drug Reactions.

Background: Few studies have been conducted on how patients identify, manage, and prevent severe adverse drug reactions (ADRs). This study aimed to explore the reasoning that patients use to identify symptoms of severe ADRs and the methods they employ to manage and prevent them. Methods: A cross-sectional survey using structured telephone interviews was administered to patients with a self-assessed severe ADR and to patients with serious skin ADRs from a hospital medical record database (in-patient and out-patient) from 1 September 2016 to 1 September 2019. Patients identified via the medical records were asked to assess their ADR for severity, and only patients that rated their ADR as severe were followed up with a telephone interview. Structured telephone interviews were conducted with respondents by a research pharmacist and audio-recorded. Results: A total of 722 patients with a severe ADR were identified, with 300 completing the interview (41.6%). The most frequently cited reasons for classifying ADRs as severe was worsening ADR symptoms (58.3%), severe ADR symptoms (44.4%), and ADR symptoms interfering with their life (36.4%). Only severe ADR symptoms were significantly different between the questionnaire and the medical records database groups (p = 0.007). The most frequent method of ADR management was discontinuation of drug by physicians (88.3%). About 79.0% of patients stated that they increased their carefulness when using other drugs after experiencing ADRs. The main method patients used to prevent ADRs was informing healthcare professionals (HCPs) about their drug allergy history (65.7%). Conclusions: Worsening ADR symptoms were often used to identify severe ADRs. However, HCPs were mainly responsible for the management and prevention of severe ADRs. Increasing awareness of ADRs by HCPs, and providing additional drug information, may improve patient safety.

What makes advance care planning discussion so difficult? A systematic review of the factors of advance care planning in healthcare settings.

Existing systematic reviews related to advance care planning (ACP) largely focus on specific groups and intervention efficacy or are limited to contextual factors. This research aims to identify the modifiable factors perceived by different users of ACP in healthcare settings and inform healthcare professionals about the factors affecting ACP practice. Five English-language databases (ProQuest, PubMed, CINAHL Plus, Scopus, and Medline) and two Chinese-language databases (CNKI and NCL) were searched up to November 2022. Empirical research identifying factors related to ACP in healthcare settings was included. ACP is defined as a discussion process on future end-of-life care. Thematic synthesis was performed on all included studies. A total of 1871 unique articles were screened; the full texts of 193 were assessed by 4 reviewers, and 45 articles were included for analysis. Twenty-two (54%) studies were qualitative, 15 (33%) were quantitative, and 6 (13%) used mixed methods. Foci varied from 28 (62%) studies on a single subject group (either patient, family, or physician), 11 (25%) on 2 subject groups (either patient and family or patient and healthcare professional), and 6 (13%) covered 3 subject groups (patient, family, and healthcare professional). Among the 17 studies involving more than 1 subject group, only 2 adopted a dyadic lens in analysis. Complex interwoven factors were categorized into (1) intrapersonal factors, (2) interpersonal factors, and (3) socio-environmental factors, with a total of 11 themes: personal belief, emotions, the burden on others, timing, responsiveness, relationship, family dynamics, experience, person taking the lead, culture, and support. Patients, families, and healthcare professionals are the essential stakeholders of ACP in healthcare settings. Factors are interweaved among the intrapersonal, interpersonal, and socio-environmental dimensions. Research is warranted to examine the dynamic interactions of the 3 essential stakeholders from a multidimensional perspective, and the mechanism of the interweaving of factors.

To Study Opportunities and Challenges of Big Data Analytics in Healthcare

Big data analytics in healthcare is a powerful tool that can bring about significant improvements in patient care, operational efficiency, and medical research. This study explores the various aspects of big data analytics in healthcare, aiming to uncover its many opportunities and challenges. Through a thorough review of existing literature and real-world case studies, this research highlights the potential benefits of big data analytics, such as better disease prediction, personalized treatment approaches, and optimized resource allocation. However, there are also notable challenges to overcome, including concerns about data privacy, problems with sharing information between different systems, and the need for skilled staff and strong infrastructure. By combining insights from different perspectives, this study provides a complete understanding of the current state of big data analytics in healthcare, offering valuable information for policymakers, healthcare professionals, and researchers to navigate this evolving field effectively.

Self-Assessment Instruments for Supporting Family Caregivers: An Integrative Review.

Family caregivers take on a variety of tasks when caring for relatives in need of care. Depending on the situation and the intensity of care, they may experience multidimensional burdens, such as physical, psychological, social, or financial stress. The aim of the present study was to identify and appraise self-assessment instruments (SAIs) that capture the dimensions of family caregivers' burdens and that support family caregivers in easily identifying their caregiving role, activities, burden, and needs. We performed an integrative review with a broad-based strategy. A literature search was conducted on PubMed, Google Scholar, Google, and mobile app stores in March 2020. After screening the records based on the eligibility criteria, we appraised the tools we found for their usefulness for family care and nursing practice. From a total of 2654 hits, 45 suitable SAIs from 274 records were identified and analyzed in this way. Finally, nine SAIs were identified and analyzed in detail based on further criteria such as their psychometric properties, advantages, and disadvantages. They are presented in multi-page vignettes with additional information for healthcare professionals. These SAIs have proven useful in assessing the dimensions of caregiver burden and can be recommended for application in family care and nursing practice.

Dimensions of living with emetophobia

Purpose This paper aims to present an examination of selected literature about the lived experiences of those with emetophobia. Its intention is to inform further empirical enquiry and subsequent approaches to treatment and care aimed at inclusive support for sufferers. To that end, it is important to bring the sufferers’ narrative into public and professional domains. Design/methodology/approach A systematic search of multiple databases using the search engine Discover@bolton and grey literature was undertaken to obtain evidence about the lived experiences of people with emetophobia. The search terms used were “emetophobia” and combinations of associated topic phrases using Boolean operators (AND / OR): “Emetophobia” OR “fear of vomiting” OR “fear of being sick”, Emetophobia AND “lived experiences” and finally Emetophobia OR “fear of vomiting” OR “fear of being sick” AND “lived experiences”. Eight papers were included in the review and five items of grey literature. Findings Several themes were identified in this literature including fear, escape and avoidance, other influences, consequences and medicalisation. The findings reveal that the experiences of those with emetophobia are subsumed beneath a focus on diagnosis and treatment. When it comes to understanding the actual lived experience of a person with emetophobia, the evidence presents the reader with what treatment may work and how they might respond to it, but largely omits the voice of the individual with emetophobia. This signals a need to undertake enquiry to bring this to the fore and so inform ways of greater inclusive practice for the public and professionals alike. Research limitations/implications The evidence reviewed in this paper can be noted for the limited discussion about the individual’s lived experience of emetophobia. Gaining insight into this would contribute to raising awareness in a wider public arena and inform carers and healthcare professionals’ understanding. It would also display the importance of an individual context and health journey. Practical implications Knowing this can inform approaches to helping an individual either to live with the phobia and manage its impact on daily living (positive rather than maladaptive coping mechanisms) or to overcome it with or without adjunct medical treatment (if this is possible). Social implications Knowing based on contemporary empirical enquiry will inform policy and guideline development. Whatever course is taken, it must contribute to steps being taken towards achieving a better quality of life for individual sufferers. The findings of this paper likewise inform the need for further study into the individual lived experience of emetophobia. Originality/value This paper is original in having identified a need to bring empirical evidence of the lived experience of sufferers with emetophobia into the public and professional domain.

"What Did You Say, ChatGPT?" The Use of AI in Black Women's HIV Self-Education: An Inductive Qualitative Data Analysis.

The emergence of widely accessible artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots such as ChatGPT presents unique opportunities and challenges in public health self-education. This study examined simulations with ChatGPT for its use in public education of sexual health of Black women, specifically in HIV prevention and/or HIV PrEP use. The research questions guiding the study are as follows: (a) does the information ChatGPT offers about HIV prevention and HIV PrEP differ based on stated race? and (b) how could this relatively new platform inform public health education of Black women educating themselves about sexual health behaviors, diagnoses, and treatments? In addressing these questions, this study also uncovered notable differences in ChatGPT's tone when responding to users based on race. This study described valuable insights that can inform health care professionals, educators, and policymakers, ultimately advancing the cause of sexual health equity for Black women and underscoring the paradigm-shifting potential of AI in the field of public health education.

High prevalence of erectile dysfunction in men with hyperthyroidism: a meta-analysis

ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the association between hyperthyroidism and the risk of developing erectile dysfunction (ED).MethodsA comprehensive search of multiple databases, including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science, was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the relationship between hyperthyroidism and ED in men. The quality of the included studies was assessed using the Newcastle‒Ottawa Quality Rating Scale, and a meta-analysis was performed using Stata 16.0 and RevMan 5.3 software.ResultsA total of four papers encompassing 25,519 study subjects were included in the analysis. Among these, 6,429 individuals had hyperthyroidism, while 19,090 served as controls. The overall prevalence of ED in patients with hyperthyroidism was determined to be 31.1% (95% CI 0.06–0.56). In patients with uncomplicated hyperthyroidism, the incidence of ED was 21.9% (95% CI 0.05–0.38). The combined odds ratio (OR) for the four studies was 1.73 (OR: 1.73; 95% CI [1.46–2.04]; p < .00001).ConclusionOur findings demonstrate a higher incidence of ED in patients with hyperthyroidism. These results provide valuable information for healthcare professionals and can facilitate discussions surrounding appropriate treatment options for ED in patients with hyperthyroidism.