Low-income Households Research Articles

Prevalence of Receipt of Fluoride Varnish Application in the Medical Setting and Associated Factors Among Children in Indiana, Iowa, and North Carolina, 2013-2022.

Fluoride varnish is a prevention measure for dental caries among children, but few studies have assessed its use in medical settings. This study aimed to determine the period-specific and cumulative prevalence of the receipt of fluoride varnish application among children in the medical setting and associated factors. A parent study enrolled 1326 primary caregiver/child dyads in Indiana, Iowa, and North Carolina; conducted 6 child dental examinations with primary caregiver questionnaires; and administered intermediate questionnaires every 4 months during 2013-2022. Responses were combined from 2- or 4-month time periods to determine the 1.5-year cumulative rates for children aged 1 to 9.5 years. Researchers conducted bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses to assess factors associated with the receipt of fluoride varnish application only from age 1 to 2.5 years. The 18-month cumulative prevalence of the receipt of fluoride varnish application in the medical setting from the child's age of 1 to 2.5 years was 20.4%, and the prevalence decreased to 12.9%, 6.4%, and 1.9% among children aged 2.5 to 4 years, 6.5 to 8 years, and 8 to 9.5 years, respectively. The following factors were significantly positively associated with fluoride varnish application in the medical setting: Medicaid insured, low annual household income, Duke University study site, child's frequent consumption of sugary beverages, child enrolled in other public assistance programs, and child's infrequent dentist visits. The prevalence of fluoride varnish application in the medical setting is low. Factors associated with the receipt of fluoride varnish can be targeted to increase caries prevention through the expanded use of fluoride varnish application in the medical setting.

Patterns and correlates of problematic Internet use among college students in a northeastern district of India: A cross-sectional study

ABSTRACT Background: The rapid growth of Internet usage has led to an increased prevalence of Problematic Internet Use (PIU), especially among college students, who are particularly vulnerable due to lifestyle transitions. PIU is linked to impulsivity, depression, and anxiety, posing significant mental health concerns. Objectives: This study aimed to explore the prevalence and factors associated with PIU among college students in Tezpur, India. Specifically, it examined demographic, behavioral, and psychological correlates of PIU and patterns of Internet usage contributing to this issue. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted across four educational institutions in Tezpur, Assam, involving 460 college students aged 18–30. Data were collected using validated tools, including Young’s Internet Addiction Test, Barratt’s Impulsiveness Scale, Self-reporting Questionnaire, Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, Fagerström Test for Nicotine Dependence, and Drug Abuse Screening Test -10. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, correlation analysis, and linear regression. Results: The study found that 55.7% of students were at risk of PIU, with 0.4% displaying severe PIU. Male gender, rural background, lower household income, impulsivity, and certain mental health issues were significantly associated with higher PIU scores. Key predictors of PIU included daily Internet use duration, frequency, and impulsivity. Conclusion: PIU is prevalent among college students in Tezpur, with impulsivity and certain sociodemographic factors serving as significant predictors. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions focusing on behavioral and mental health factors to mitigate PIU risks in this population.

Prevalence, etiology and risk of lymphedema among residents of Mt. Elgon region in Kenya

Cases of lymphedema have been observed in the Mt. Elgon region, but its prevalence, etiology, and risk factors are unknown. A cross-sectional field survey was conducted to determine the prevalence, etiology and risk of lymphedema in the region. Human cases and mosquito sample specimens were examined for filarial worm infection, while soil samples were analysed for elements potentially linked to the condition. The study recorded a lymphedema prevalence of 17.4 per 100,000, with 38 cases identified across the study sites. The distribution of cases varied significantly (χ² = 15.76, d.f. = 3, p = 0.0013), with a significantly higher occurrence among females (71.05%, n = 27) compared to males (28.95%, n = 11) (χ² = 17.64, d.f. = 1, p < 0.0001). All human and mosquito samples tested negative for filarial worm infection. Most affected individuals did not regularly wear shoes, and both cases and controls were largely unaware of the condition’s cause, often attributing it to witchcraft. The use of mosquito nets differed significantly based on socioeconomic status (χ² = 45.83, d.f. = 1, p < 0.0001). None of the affected individuals or controls were aware of treatment options. Additionally, most residents lived in poor housing conditions with inadequate hygiene. Soil analysis revealed that iron and potassium concentrations correlated positively with lymphedema prevalence (R = 0.867 and R = 0.897, respectively). Based on these findings, the study concludes that lymphedema in the region is podoconiosis-related, caused by exposure to high levels of iron and potassium in the soil. Women in low-income households face the highest risk. Targeted interventions should prioritize the most vulnerable residents, with a particular focus on women.

Annual household income and chronic pulmonary conditions in long-term survivors of blood or marrow transplantation: a BMTSS report

IntroductionWhether socioeconomic status is associated with pulmonary conditions in BMT survivors is unknown. In this study, we used data from the BMT Survivor Study (BMTSS) to determine the association between low annual household income and adverse pulmonary conditions (asthma, chronic cough or dyspnea, dyspnea at rest, recurrent pneumonia, current oxygen use) and health status in a retrospective cohort of BMT survivors.MethodsBMTSS includes individuals who received BMT between 1974 and 2014 and survived for ≥ 2y after BMT at one of three participating sites. BMT survivors completed the BMTSS survey, providing details on demographics (including annual household income) and chronic health conditions as diagnosed by their healthcare providers. We used logistic regression models to determine the odds of low annual household income (≤$49,999) associated with a post-BMT pulmonary condition in BMT survivors, adjusting for relevant clinical and sociodemographic variables.ResultsOur analysis included 2,814 participants (median age 58y; 44% female; 75% non-Hispanic White). Compared to survivors with annual household income ≥$100,000, those with income ≤$49,999 had higher odds of pulmonary conditions (asthma: OR = 1.80, 95%CI = 1.04–3.12, chronic cough or dyspnea: OR = 1.96, 95%CI = 1.37–2.81, and recurrent pneumonia: OR = 1.90, 95%CI = 1.00-3.60. Low income was also associated with suboptimal health status (poor/fair/good: OR = 2.36, 95%CI = 1.84–3.01; reference: very good/excellent).ConclusionsThe association between low annual household income and post-BMT pulmonary compromise in BMT survivors presents a need to understand the individual and environmental causes for this association. Future research should evaluate interventions to prevent post-transplant pulmonary morbidity in the lower-income survivor population.

A Study on the Importance of Microfinance Banks in the Economic Development of Idukki District

ABSTRACT Microfinance services are designed to reach excluded customers, usually poorer population segments, possibly socially marginalized, or geographically more isolated, and to help them become self-sufficient. The improvement of rural livelihoods is the aspect of poverty reduction that Microfinance Institutions concentrate on.Micro financial schemes play vital role in increasing women’s participation in economic activities and decision making. With increasing demand for rural finance, and the shortages of formal sources, the MFIs have tremendous challenges and opportunities in the economic development of India. Lack of security and high operating costs are some of the major limitations faced by the banks while providing loans to poor people. This study aims to study the financial assistance provided by microfinance bank and the benefits enjoyed by customers in Idukki district.and to understand the problems faced by microfinance banks while providing financial assistance to clients in various sectors of the societyalong with the role of microfinance banks in the welfare of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and the development of economy with a random sample of 50 microfinance bank customers. The data were analyzed and interpreted using various descriptive and inferential statistical tools like percentages, graphs, tables, Independent sample T – test, and ANOVA. It is found that majority of respondents were able to repay half the credit amount and it is more convenient to get credit from microfinance banks , while most of the respondents agreed that loans are provided at high interest rates and the respondents got an improved performance of their SHG as a result of financial assistance from microfinance banks along with their decision-making power and overall socio-economic status. Above all, this study found that microfinance institutions significantly expand access to financial services for low-income individuals, households, and small businesses that are typically excluded from conventional banking systems due to lack of collateral, low income, or limited credit history and thus played a vital role in the economic development of Idukki district.

Diabetes distress among caregivers of adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Diabetes distress (DD), the negative emotional response related to the burdens of diabetes management, has been studied primarily in adults with type 2 diabetes and youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D), but less is known about DD among caregivers of youth with T1D. Caregivers of adolescents with T1D (n = 198, Mage = 45.6 ± 7.3, 84% female, 66% non-Hispanic White) were enrolled in a two-site randomized clinical trial aimed at treating DD among adolescents. The current study is a secondary analysis of baseline data to examine factors associated with DD among caregivers. Caregivers completed measures of DD, diabetes-related family conflict, and adolescents' diabetes self-management behaviors. Caregivers also reported on demographic factors, and clinical data were extracted from adolescents' medical records. Female caregivers, caregivers of younger adolescents, caregivers reporting lower household income, caregivers of lower subjective social status, and single/nonpartnered caregivers reported significantly higher caregiver DD. Further, after adjusting for demographic factors, higher diabetes-related family conflict and lower adolescent diabetes self-management behaviors were associated with significantly higher caregiver DD. Correlates of caregiver DD provide insight into potential risks and modifiable factors that may help clinicians develop interventions to target caregiver DD to improve outcomes in both caregivers and adolescents with T1D.

Sociodemographic determinants of dental care utilization among children receiving public assistance in Japan: a one-year observational study

BackgroundAccess to dental care for all children is a matter of human rights. While public assistance (PA) programs can potentially improve access to dental care through income support for daily living and healthcare services among children in low-income households, other social vulnerabilities influence access. We aimed to investigate the sociodemographic determinants of dental care access for children on PA in Japan.MethodsThis study included all children receiving PA benefits in six municipalities. We extracted sociodemographic data as of April 2016 on age, sex, single-parenthood, parents’ working status, nationality, presence of siblings, disability certificates, and timing of households’ PA receipt, and observed them for one year. Medical assistance claim data was used to identify children’s dental care use as the outcome. Cumulative incidence ratios (CIR) for each variable were calculated using multivariable modified Poisson regression analysis.ResultsOf the 1,990 children on PA, the mean age was 8.32 (standard deviation; 4.12), 998 (50.2%) were girls, 1256 (63.1%) lived in single-parent households, and 532 (26.7%) were born into households already receiving PA, and 1085 (54.5%) children accessed dental care. Children living in single-parent households had a higher dental care use (CIR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.03–1.23) than those in non-single-parent households. Children born in PA households had a lower dental care use (CIR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79–0.98) than those who began receiving PA after birth.ConclusionsDespite Japan’s comprehensive welfare PA system, dental care access barriers persist, particularly among children from non-single-parent households and those born into PA.

Superwoman schema and metabolic syndrome in Black adolescent girls.

This study investigated associations between the Superwoman schema (socialized expectations to project strength and exhibit a determination to succeed, while at the same time helping others and suppressing one's emotions) and metabolic syndrome (MetS, a cluster of risk factors for diabetes, heart disease, and stroke detectable in childhood) across the period of adolescence. A sample of 256 Black adolescent girls (ages 14-19), all from lower-income households (≤ 2 × poverty threshold) was recruited for a cross-sectional study. Adolescents completed the Superwoman schema questionnaire, and MetS was measured using International Diabetes Federation criteria. Analyses posed a developmental question of whether associations varied by age across the period of adolescence. Age by Superwoman schema interactions were found, such that in younger adolescent girls, higher scores on the Superwoman schema questionnaire were associated with better cardiometabolic health (lower levels of MetS); however, by older adolescence, higher Superwoman schema scores were associated with worse cardiometabolic health (higher MetS). Psychologically, at older ages, a higher Superwoman schema score also was associated with experiencing greater conflict across life domains and with lower levels of perceived control. Overall these patterns suggest that a critical switch from the Superwoman schema being beneficial to being detrimental may occur some time during late adolescence. These findings suggest the importance of developing ways to cultivate and sustain the early beneficial aspects of a Superwoman schema as Black girls transition into adulthood.

Resilience measurement for environmental shocks and stressors: scale development and psychometric assessment for coastal urban informal settlements in Fiji and Indonesia

BackgroundClimate change and weather-related hazards, such as droughts and floods, pose substantial threats to the human health and well-being, especially for those in low-income households and informal settlements. Resilience, defined as the ability to cope, adapt, and recover, is critical for communities to manage these evolving threats. While there has been increased interest in ensuring that global public health and development programs contribute to resilience, the lack of valid and user-friendly resilience measurement tools limits the evidence base on the effectiveness of interventions to build resilience.MethodsWe developed scales to measure economic, environmental, and social resilience to environmental shocks/stressors among urban informal settlements in low- and middle-income countries. Using an evidence-based conceptual framework, we collected data from 882 households in coastal informal settlements in Makassar, Indonesia and Suva, Fiji. We used factor analysis and item response theory approaches and assessed internal scale validity, reliability, and measurement equivalence.ResultsAnalysis supported a one-factor model for economic resilience, which showed a positive correlation with a financial satisfaction item, providing evidence of internal construct validity. The results also indicated a four-factor model for social resilience, with subscales for inclusion, social cohesion, collective efficacy and action, and preparedness. These subscales correlated with relevant external items—community satisfaction and perceived safety—supporting internal construct validity. The environmental resilience scale performed poorly in item response theory analysis and requires substantial refinement. The economic resilience scale demonstrated configural, metric, and scalar equivalence, suggesting that scores are comparable between households in Indonesia and Fiji. The social resilience scales showed only configural equivalence, indicating potential differences in how items relate to the underlying construct across countries. Both the economic and social resilience scales demonstrated acceptable reliability, with omega coefficients > 0.70.ConclusionsWe developed and internally validated scales to measure economic and social resilience to environmental disturbances that quantify resilience as a latent construct and are grounded in resilience theory. These scales are suitable for application in urban informal settlements in Indonesia and Fiji. We recommend their use, with re-validation as needed, in the monitoring and evaluation of resilience-building interventions and policies targeting urban households in low-income settings.

Assessing the effect of energy poverty on health outcomes: insights from Ghana

BackgroundEnergy poverty, characterized by inadequate access to clean, reliable, and affordable energy, is a pressing issue in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), with profound implications for health outcomes and healthcare utilization. In sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana, energy poverty disproportionately affects rural and low-income households, exacerbating health disparities and limiting access to healthcare services. This study investigates the impact of energy poverty on health outcomes and healthcare-seeking behaviour. Specifically, it examines the likelihood of illness or injury, the duration of illness as an indicator of healthcare access, and the probability of consulting health practitioners, providing evidence to guide targeted policy interventions.MethodsThe study utilized data from the Ghana Living Standards Survey (GLSS 7) to examine energy poverty and health outcomes. The Multidimensional Energy Poverty Index (MEPI) was calculated to measure energy poverty among a sample of 7,460 households. Health outcomes were assessed based on the incidence and duration of illness or injury and healthcare-seeking behaviors. To analyze these relationships, econometric models such as binary logistic regression and Poisson regression were employed, with robustness checks conducted using the Lewbel Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) method to address potential endogeneity. The analysis was performed using STATA 18 software.ResultsThe study finds that energy poverty is significantly associated with a higher probability of experiencing illness or injury (0.063, p < 0.01), while paradoxically linked to shorter illness duration (–1.299, p < 0.10). Among poor households, energy poverty significantly reduces the likelihood of consulting a healthcare practitioner (–0.036, p < 0.10). Lewbel 2SLS estimates confirm these patterns, showing a robust positive effect on illness incidence (0.181, p < 0.05) and a significant negative impact on healthcare utilization (–0.137, p < 0.10). These findings underscore energy poverty’s dual burden: increasing health risks while limiting timely access to care, particularly for the poor.ConclusionsThe findings highlight the critical effect of energy poverty on health outcomes in Ghana, particularly among the poorest and most vulnerable populations. Addressing energy poverty requires integrated policies that enhance access to clean and affordable energy while also improving healthcare services and public health education. Targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, including subsidies for clean energy technologies and energy-efficient appliances, are essential. This study calls for a nuanced approach that aligns energy access with public health goals, aiming to improve well-being and reduce health disparities in Ghana.

Disparities in Caregiver-reported Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors, and Clinical Guidance regarding Primary Prevention of Peanut Allergy.

Disparities in Caregiver-reported Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors, and Clinical Guidance regarding Primary Prevention of Peanut Allergy.

Understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on households’ livelihoods in Zimbabwe: A qualitative study using the sustainable urban livelihood framework.

Background Pandemics such as COVID-19 affect lives in complex ways, disrupting economic activities and impacting livelihoods. The Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF) helps us to understand these diverse effects beyond health impacts. We investigate the impact of the pandemic on the livelihoods of urban households in Zimbabwe. Methods We conducted a qualitative study utilizing an iteration of the SLF, the Sustainable Urban Livelihoods Framework (SULF), as our theoretical foundation for exploring urban living in Harare and Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. Between April and December 2021, we collected primary data through household surveys, focus group discussions, and interviews with the key informants. Following SULF, we performed hybrid deductive and inductive thematic analysis of the data. Results Households from various socioeconomic backgrounds have experienced notable negative effects owing to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic and its related control measures, such as social distancing and lockdowns, have led to job losses, income reductions, food insecurity, and the illness or death of household members. Additionally, many individuals faced decreased access to essential health services and education, which are vital for maintaining their livelihoods. Those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds were particularly affected, struggling to sustain their livelihoods more than those from higher income brackets. Conclusions The disproportionate impact on low-income households highlights the lack of properly established social support systems stemming from the challenging political and economic conditions in Zimbabwe. While low- and middle-income countries should consider international policy recommendations, we advocate evidence-based policy decision making that carefully evaluates the effects of COVID-19 policies on health, livelihoods, and the wider economy.

Household income modifies the association between social capital and gestational diabetes mellitus in Japan: Results from TMM BirThree Cohort Study.

While social capital can prevent diabetes, these benefits can be heterogeneous with respect to socioeconomic status. We investigated the association between social capital and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) while examining effect modification by household income. We conducted a secondary data analysis using the Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three-Generation Cohort Study carried out between July 2013 and March 2017. Social capital (mutual aid, social trust, informal social control, collective action) and covariates were self-reported, while GDM diagnosis and other medical and physiological information were obtained from medical records. To assess the association between social capital and GDM, we conducted logistic regression models. We further tested for interactions between social capital and household income as well as stratified the models by income. Among 20,339 study participants, 700 (3.4%) were diagnosed with GDM. Multivariable logistic regression models found that social trust and collective action were associated with lower GDM prevalence, even after adjustment of covariates. When stratifying household income, however, social capital was significantly associated with the reduced risks of GDM only among participants with higher household income (OR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.85-0.97). No significant association was observed among those with lower household income. The health benefit of social capital on GDM prevalence was heterogeneous, and the protective effect of social capital on GDM was found only among women with higher household income. The differential impact of social capital on GDM highlights the need for targeted interventions addressing structural health inequities.

Analysis of prenatal and passive smoking exposure and Early Childhood Caries among preschool children in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional study.

Analysis of prenatal and passive smoking exposure and Early Childhood Caries among preschool children in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional study.

Tumor profiling of advanced urothelial carcinoma: Comparative analysis based on social determinants of health.

Tumor profiling of advanced urothelial carcinoma: Comparative analysis based on social determinants of health.

Patients' perceptions of bariatric surgery in the Deep South: the impact of health literacy.

Bariatric surgery utilization is low in the Deep South despite the high prevalence of obesity in the region. The impact of health literacy (HL) on access to bariatric surgery is unclear. We aim to assess the relationship between HL and patients' perspectives on healthcare, including bariatric surgical care in the Deep South. A multi-institutional study was conducted in surgery clinics at three institutions in Alabama. Participants were recruited to complete a survey based on the NIH PhenX tool kit, assessing socioeconomic determinants of health, as well as perception of safety, efficacy, and accessibility of bariatric surgery. HL was measured based on BRIEF Health Literacy Screening tool and classified as high (score ≥ 17) or low (< 17). Bivariate analyses were performed. A total of 127 participants were recruited, with 26.8% (n = 34) having low HL. Low HL patients reported lower household incomes and lower rates of post-secondary education (11.7% vs. 45.2%, p < 0.01). Participants with low HL also reported less understanding of prescribed medications (90.6% vs. 98.8%), awareness of available treatment options (71.9% vs. 90.0%), and trust in their doctors (91.2% vs. 98.9%; all p < 0.01). Moreover, low HL patients were more likely to have challenges in making an appointment (23.5% vs. 8.6%) and miss appointments due to transportation issues (44.1% vs. 17.2%, both p < 0.01). Although there were no differences in obesity rates, low HL patients were less likely to consider bariatric surgery if indicated (61.8% vs. 81.7%) and recommend bariatric surgery to others (52.9% vs. 72.0%; both p < 0.01). Low HL patients in the Deep South reported less familiarity with healthcare treatment options, trust in their doctors, and likelihood to consider bariatric surgery when indicated. Community outreach and education programs addressing the unique needs of low HL patients are necessary to increase their awareness and improve their access to bariatric surgery.

Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in low-income childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus patients

ObjectiveTo determine the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in patients with childhood onset Systemic Lupus Erithematosus (cSLE) and controls from Northeastern Brazil and to verify its association with specific SLE parameters and cardiovascular risk factors.MethodsThe prevalence of MetS was assessed cross-sectionally in 58 patients with cSLE and 33 age -matched controls. Information was collected by clinical examination and standardized questionnaires, investigating personal and family history of cardiovascular disease and obesity and socioeconomic and demographic characteristics.ResultsThe prevalence of MetS was higher in cSLE patients than in controls according to both ABRAN criteria (8.6% vs. 0%; p = 0.083) and IDF criteria (10,3% vs. 3.0%; p = 0.208), but without statistical significance. Importantly, 91.4% of patients were from a low-income household. Patients with MetS according to ABRAN also had lower ESR levels (p = 0.039), higher total cholesterol (p = 0.013), HDL-c (p = 0.007) and triglycerides (p = 0.001) and a lower albumin level (p = 0.016). Patients with MetS according to IDF had higher SDI scores (p = 0.039) and higher C3 and C4 levels (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). The multivariate logistic regression identified higher levels C4 (OR = 32.6; 95% CI = 1.0-544.0; p = 0.015) and increase in the number of leukocytes (OR = 1.9, 95%CI = 1.1–3.2; p = 0.022) as independent risk factors for MetS in patients with cSLE.ConclusionThe prevalence of Mets in the patients with cSLE seems to be low in this population. There was association of MetS with higher cumulative damage indices and levels of complement. We did not observe any association with clinical manifestations, autoantibody profile and dose of corticosteroids.

Diet in Pregnancy: A Review of Current Challenges and Recommendations. A British Nutrition Foundation Briefing Paper.

Pregnancy is a crucial period during which maternal nutrition, weight and lifestyle behaviours have a direct impact on both maternal and fetal health. This briefing paper describes dietary and lifestyle recommendations for women during the preconceptional period and throughout pregnancy, identifying specific factors that can be modified to improve health outcomes for both mother and child. It considers key areas such as nutrient intakes, supplementation, food safety and weight management, and highlights how dietary choices can help reduce the risk of common pregnancy-related conditions. Despite widespread recognition of the importance of a healthy, balanced diet, many women in the UK fall short of recommended intakes for important nutrients, including iron, folate, iodine and vitamin D. These shortfalls are particularly evident among nutritionally vulnerable groups, such as teenagers, women from lower-income households and those experiencing food insecurity; such groups may face barriers to accessing healthy foods and adhering to supplementation guidance. An increasing interest in plant-based diets presents an opportunity to consider a range of dietary patterns that support both maternal health and environmental sustainability. However, such shifts must be carefully managed to ensure adequate intake of nutrients commonly found in animal products, such as vitamin B12, iron, iodine, calcium and long-chain fatty acids. Rates of overweight and obesity among women of childbearing age remain high, reflecting trends in the general population and contributing to growing concern about maternal obesity. Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy plays a key role in supporting maternal and fetal wellbeing. Both insufficient and excessive weight gain are associated with elevated risks of complications. Excessive weight gain during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders such as pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and a greater likelihood of long-term obesity in both mother and child. Supporting women to achieve and maintain a healthy weight in the periconceptional period and throughout pregnancy is therefore a public health priority. The antenatal period presents a unique window of opportunity to promote healthier and more sustainable eating patterns, as women are often highly motivated to improve their health and are in more regular contact with healthcare professionals at this time. Yet, research indicates that many women are unaware of dietary recommendations or receive inconsistent advice. To fully harness this opportunity, healthcare providers must be equipped with culturally appropriate, accessible and evidence-based resources to support perinatal conversations around diet, supplementation, physical activity and body weight. Providing appropriate support during the periconceptional and early pregnancy period is essential to addressing health inequalities, improving long-term wellbeing and positively influencing the health of future generations.

“There is Always Food in the Freezer”. Negotiations of Respectability, Health and Food Among Women in Disadvantaged Conditions

ABSTRACT Drawing on qualitative in-depth interviews with 15 women living in low-income households in Denmark, this article explores how disadvantaged women discursively negotiate their own respectability in conditions that do not allow them to keep up with social norms concerning health, proper eating, and being a good citizen. Our findings show that the women refer to their own socially marginalized position in society and difficulties in living up to dietary health discourses and at the same time insist on their agency, competence, and value. The analysis suggests that their identification with gendered ideals of domestic work has offered some of the interviewed women a positively subject position that can be used to negotiate respectability and social recognition, allowing them to counter their discursive delimitation. Food work offers a sphere in which they can distinguish themselves positively and from this, many of them “talk back” and claim a positive, recognized subject position connoting agency, value and respectability.

Lost Narratives: Identifying Predictors of Attrition and Differences in Recruitment Effort in a Longitudinal Study on Child Maltreatment.

Longitudinal research on the adverse consequences of childhood maltreatment has recently gained significant traction. However, systematic attrition, partly due to specific subsample recruitment needs, threatens the validity of this research. Furthermore, studies specifically analyzing these factors in the field of maltreatment research remain scarce. We utilized data from a longitudinal study comprising N = 863 participants (MAge = 10.23 years, 47.5% female) and their caregivers at T1, and 616 participants (MAge = 17.95 years, 50.0% female) at T2. We determined the attrition rate and analyzed psychosocial and socioeconomic predictors of attrition. Additionally, we examined differences in re-assessment efforts between maltreated and non-maltreated youth for T2. Findings indicate a comparatively low attrition rate of 28.6% over nearly 8years. Participants' maltreatment experiences, externalizing symptoms, and lower household income predicted higher attrition risk, while interim subsample study participation reduced this risk. Maltreatment experiences, lower household income, and higher age were also associated with increased re-assessment effort. Our study provides insights into predictors of systematic attrition in a longitudinal study with maltreated and non-maltreated youth. It highlights the need for tailored retention strategies, frequent contact with families, and targeted resource allocation to mitigate systematic attrition.