Group Discussion Participants Research Articles

Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and uptake among populations in the West department of Haiti.

The COVID-19 pandemic in Haiti led to increased challenges for a population concurrently dealing with natural and social disasters, poor quality health care, lack of clean running water, and inadequate housing. In 2022, the population of Haiti was 11.4 million. While half a million vaccines for COVID-19 were donated by the United States to the government of Haiti, less than 5% of the population agreed to be vaccinated. This resulted in thousands of unused doses that were diverted to other countries. The purpose of this study was to evaluate population characteristics related to vaccine uptake in order to inform future interventions to improve COVID-19 vaccine uptake as well as inform strategies to safeguard against future global health security threats. This was a mixed-methods, cross-sectional study conducted in the West Department of Haiti within peri-urban communes. Participants consisted of adults in this setting responding to a survey from June 15 to July 18, 2022. The survey assessed demographic information, household characteristics, religious beliefs, past vaccine use, and current COVID-19 vaccine status. Multivariate regression modeling was conducted to assess predictors of vaccine hesitancy. Qualitative focus group discussion participants were recruited and focus group discussions were conducted between August-September 2022 among community groups, religious leaders and health professionals to provide additional, community-level context on perceptions of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccines. A total of 1,923 respondents completed the survey; of which a majority were male (52.7%), between the age of 18-35 (58.5%), had a medical visit within the last year (63.0%) and received the COVID-19 vaccine (46.1%). Compared to those who had been COVID-19 vaccinated, participants who had not been vaccinated were more likely to be male (57.7% vs 46.8%, p < .0001), have completed secondary education (30.5% vs 16.6%, p < .001), unemployed (20.3% vs 7.3%, p < .0001) and had a medical visit 3 or more years ago (30.2% vs 11.2%, p < .0001). Unvaccinated COVID-19 participants were also more likely to have never received any other vaccine (36.1% vs22.5%, p < .0001), have a religious leader speak out against the vaccine (20.0% vs 13.1%, p < .0001), not believe in the effectiveness of the vaccine (51.2% vs 9.1%, p < .0001) and did not trust the healthcare worker administering the vaccine (35.2% vs 3.8%, p<0.0001). These results show that targeted interventions to religious leaders and health care workers on how to engage with the community and share clearer messages around the COVID-19 vaccination may result in increased vaccine uptake. Results also shed light on how activities surrounding vaccinations can be tailored to meet client needs addressing the misinformation encountered to achieve greater health impact thereby safeguarding the population against future global health security threats.

Peningkatan Hasil Belajar Peserta Didik Kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Tarabintang melalui Metode Pembelajaran Problem Based Learning

This study aims to improve the learning outcomes of eighth-grade students at SMP Negeri 2 Tarabintang in the subjects of Catholic Religious Education and Ethics through the implementation of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model. This method was chosen as a solution to the low interest and learning outcomes of students, especially in understanding the material of the Church as a Sign and Means of Salvation. This study employs a Classroom Action Research (CAR) approach conducted in two cycles. Each cycle involves the stages of planning, action implementation, observation, and reflection. The results of the study indicate that the implementation of the PBL model successfully improved students' learning outcomes in the cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects. In the first cycle, the average value of student test results reached 76, which increased to 85 in the second cycle. In addition, students' active participation in group discussions increased significantly, as seen from the observation results that showed an increase in students' ability to identify problems, provide alternative solutions, and appreciate the perspectives of others. In conclusion, the implementation of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model has proven effective in improving students' learning outcomes, both in terms of knowledge and social skills. The application of this model not only increases students' understanding of the material taught but also enhances students' active participation and motivation to learn. It is recommended that teachers continue to apply this method in teaching, especially in subjects that require active student involvement in problem-solving.

Meningkatan Kemampuan Berpikir Kritis Siswa Pada Pendidikan Agama Katolik dan Budi Pekerti Kelas IX Dengan Model PBL SMPN 3 Pegagan Hilir

This study aims to improve students' critical thinking skills in the subject of Catholic Religious Education and Character through the implementation of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) model. The background of this research is based on the low cognitive learning outcomes of students, particularly in critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The research was conducted at SMP Negeri 3 Pegagan Hilir with a sample of 12 students from class IX-A. The research method used was Classroom Action Research (CAR) conducted in two cycles. Each cycle consisted of the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The instruments used included observation sheets and evaluation tests. The research results showed an increase in students' critical thinking skills in the second cycle compared to the first cycle. The average score of students' critical thinking skills increased from 70 in the first cycle to 88 in the second cycle, with a learning mastery rate of 90%. The implementation of the PBL model proved effective in enhancing students' participation in group discussions, critical thinking skills, and learning motivation. This model also helped students connect the concepts learned with real-life situations, thereby improving their understanding and learning outcomes

Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Melalui PBL Bagi Peserta Didik Kelas VIII SMP Negeri 1 Onan Ganjang

This study aims to improve the learning outcomes of class VIII students of SMP Negeri 1 Onan ganjang in the subjects of canonical religions education and Character education through the application of the Problem based Learning (Pbl) Learning model.This method was chosen as a solution to the low interest and learning outcomes of students, especially in understanding the material of the Church as a Sign and means of salvation.This study uses a Classroom action Research(CAR)approach which is carried out in two cycle includes the stages of planding, Implementing actions, Observation, and reflection. The results of the study showed that the application of the PBL learning Model Succeeded in improving student learning outcomes in the cognivite, Affective, and pocomotor aspects.in the 1-mile cycle, the average student test results reached 76, Which increased to 85 in cycle II.In addition, student participation in group discussions increased significantly as seen from the results of Observations that showed an increse in students ability to solve problems, provide alternative solutions, and appreciate other people’s points of view. In conclusion, the application of the problem Based Learning (PBL) Learning model has proven effective in improving student learning outcome, both in rearms of knowledge and social skills. The applications of this model not only improves students active participation and learning motivation. It is recommended for teachers to continue applying this medhod in learning.

A qualitative study of knowledge, beliefs and misinformation regarding COVID-19 in selected districts in Zimbabwe

BackgroundLack of appropriate knowledge, incorrect beliefs and misinformation misleads people about the risks they face and how best to protect themselves. A study was conducted to explore the knowledge, beliefs and misinformation regarding COVID-19 in Zimbabwe.MethodsA qualitative study was conducted in September-October 2022 with a purposive sample of religious leaders, women leaders, youth leaders, health workers, village health workers, teachers, traditional healers, transporters, and the general population selected from ten sites across the country. In total there were 128 participants (30 key informants and 98 focus group discussion participants). At each site, 3 key informant interviews and one homogenous focus group discussion were conducted using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussion guides, respectively. The data were recorded on audiotapes, transcribed verbatim, and translated into English. Manual thematic analysis of the data was performed.FindingsThree themes were identified in this study: (1) beliefs about COVID-19, (2) knowledge about COVID-19 (knowledge of origin, definition, transmission, signs and symptoms and recommended preventive measures), and (3) misinformation about COVID-19 (regarding its nature, existence and recommended preventive measures). There was awareness of the origin, transmission, signs and symptoms of COVID-19 among the participants. Participants reported that Zimbabwean communities were conversant with public health measures such as maintaining social distancing, wearing masks, and maintaining hand hygiene. However, misinformation was also observed to have circulated among the communities.ConclusionParticipants demonstrated good knowledge of COVID-19. However, the misinformation circulating in the country calls for the government to establish structures to monitor the legitimacy of information coming through different sources and invest in providing information through trusted sources. In any disease outbreak, the government should engage its citizenry to understand their knowledge, beliefs and any misinformation that might influence adherence to disease preventive measures.

Implementation of Lesson Study in Improving Creative Thinking and Student Learning Outcomes in Social Sciences Subjects

There is a Japanese teacher professional development model that effectively improves the quality of learning, namely Lesson Study. This research aims to analyze the impact of implementing lesson study on improving creative thinking and student learning outcomes in Social Sciences (IPS) subjects at MTsN Batu City. The research method used is classroom action research (PTK) with a qualitative and quantitative approach. The research subjects were students of class VIII MTsN Batu City. Data was collected through observation, interviews, and learning outcomes tests. The research results show that lesson study significantly improves students' creative thinking abilities and learning outcomes. Qualitative Findings: Observations revealed increased student participation in group discussions and submission of new ideas. Teachers report that collaboration in lesson planning allows them to design more interactive and engaging strategies. Interviews with students showed increased confidence and engagement in exploring social studies concepts. Quantitative Findings: Test results show significant improvements in students' academic achievement. The student's average score on the initial test of 75 increased to 85 on the final test, with the t-test showing that this difference was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05). This demonstrates that lesson study has increased students' understanding and mastery of social studies material.

Engaging Students Through PowerPoint: The Power of Multimodal Learning

Teachers play a crucial role in fostering a positive and motivating learning environment for their students. One effective method to enhance student learning motivation is the use of PowerPoint as a multimodal tool. This study aimed to enhance students' learning motivation using PowerPoint in this capacity. Classroom Action Research (CAR) was applied, with 36 XI-grade hospitality students selected through purposive sampling. Field notes were used to record the implementation process, observation sheets examined improvements in students' learning motivation, and interviews identified the challenges of using PowerPoint as a multimodal tool. The results demonstrated that using PowerPoint effectively enhanced student learning motivation, with student participation increasing from 49.2% in the preliminary study to 77.7% after the intervention. Significant improvements were observed in various aspects: attentiveness, expression of ideas, task completion, active participation, collaboration, and engagement in group discussions. However, the study also highlighted challenges, such as the need for expertise in seamlessly integrating PowerPoint and tailoring materials to diverse student needs, including facility-related issues. These findings suggest the necessity for future research to investigate teacher training programs and examine the impact of various multimodal elements in PowerPoint presentations on student engagement. Despite the challenges, PowerPoint remains a promising tool for enhancing classroom dynamics and student motivation.

The Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancies (HTSP) project: improving family planning in Siaya County, Kenya.

Religious leaders are influential and can impact the uptake of family planning (FP). In this study of the Healthy Timing and Spacing of Pregnancies (HTSP) project, led in Siaya County, Kenya, from September 2017 to June 2019, we present findings from the project's evaluation, to determine changes in knowledge of the key HTSP messages; changes in the proportion of community members who correctly identify at least three methods of contraception; changes in knowledge of healthy child spacing; and changes in modern contraceptive prevalence rate. This is a two-staged (baseline and endline) cross-sectional study, designed to assess the knowledge, practice, and coverage of HTSP/FP services. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire adapted from the United States Agency for International Development. Focus group discussion participants included men, women, representatives of community groups, faith leaders, and community heath volunteers. Frequencies were calculated from the ODK platform. Bivariate analytics (paired t test) were performed. At baseline, women respondents aged 20-29 years constituted 66.3% of the women participants, dropping to 60.9% at endline. Women aged 30-34 years constituted 11.9% and 22% of the entire women respondents, at baseline and endline, respectively. Men aged 20-29 constituted 45.2% of all men respondents at baseline, and 35.4% at endline. There were statistically significant increases in the knowledge of modern contraceptives among women (p = 0.0342), faith leaders (p = 0.0464), and the entire population (p = 0.0097), from baseline to endline. The HTSP model identifies success factors for FP interventions in Kenya and other low- and middle-income countries where faith leaders and community stakeholders are influential, and that women and faith leaders are much more easily impacted positively with these efforts, as measured by increased knowledge and awareness of modern contraceptive methods, compared with men.

Manajemen Peningkatan Kepercayaan Diri Siswa Melalui Layanan Bimbingan Kelompok di Kelas X SMAN 1 Parigi

This study aims to explore the management of confidence-building in students through group guidance services in the 10th grade at SMAN 1 Parigi. The study employs a descriptive method with a qualitative approach, involving data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, documentation studies, and data source triangulation. The research process includes planning, organizing, implementing, and controlling group guidance services focused on enhancing students' confidence. The results show that group guidance services are effective in boosting students' confidence through active participation in group discussions, role-playing, and other activities designed to motivate students to express their opinions and feelings. The school counselors play a crucial role in facilitating and directing the group guidance sessions and conducting regular evaluations to ensure the program's goals are met. Challenges include students who tend to be reserved and the lack of collaboration between homeroom teachers and school counselors. However, with a closer approach and higher intensity of guidance, it is expected to build closer relationships and trust between school counselors and students, significantly increasing students' confidence.

Penerapan Model Pembelajaran Inquiry untuk Meningkatkan Pemahaman Konsep IPA di MTsN 1 Kepulauan Sula (Suatu Penelitian Tindakan Kelas)

This research aims to improve the understanding of science concepts among students at MTsN 1 Kepulauan Sula through the application of the inquiry learning model. This Classroom Action Research was conducted in three cycles, with 29 eighth-grade students as research subjects. Data was collected through concept understanding tests, learning observations, and interviews. The results show an improvement in students' understanding of science concepts from cycle I to cycle III, with the class average score increasing from 65.8 to 78.5, and the percentage of students reaching the Minimum Competency Criteria increasing from 48% to 79%. Student activity in learning also showed improvement, evident from increased participation in group discussions, ability to ask questions, and formulate hypotheses. Challenges in applying the inquiry model, such as limited resources and adaptation to local context, were addressed through the use of local materials and contextualization of learning materials. This study concludes that the inquiry learning model, with appropriate adaptations, is effective in improving students' understanding of science concepts in Indonesia's outer island regions. These findings have important implications for efforts to improve the quality of science learning in similar areas.

Determinants of land management technology adoptions by rural households in the Goyrie watershed of southern Ethiopia: Multivariate probit modeling estimation

Land management technology (LMT) adoption is one of Ethiopia's crucial strategies to combat soil depletion and promote agricultural production. However, there is scant information concerning the intensity, interdependent nature, and households' decision to adopt multiple LMTs. Thus, the purpose of this study is to identify factors influencing households' decisions to adopt multiple LMTs and the intensity and interdependency of the technologies in the Goyrie watershed of southern Ethiopia. The data was collected from 291 randomly selected household heads, focus group discussion participants, and key informant interview respondents. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric methods like multivariate probit and ordered probit modeling, while the qualitative data was presented through content analysis. The result indicated that more than half of respondents (67 %) applied one or two LMTs. The highest complementary effects were observed in mixed soil bunds with desho grasses and manure applications. However, soil bunds and fanya-juu, manure application and agroforestry showed interchangeability with one another. Sex, education, family size, landholding size, access to development agents and credit institutions, training, and village membership increased the probability of adopting multiple LMTs, whereas age, land rent, and crop sharing discouraged the likelihood of households' decisions to adopt LMT. The results of the ordered probit model revealed that village membership and contact with extension agents highly encouraged the intensity of LMT adoptions. Thus, policymakers and planners should consider social, institutional, human asset, and technological related factors to increase adoption rates and intensity of land management technologies.

Diskusi Kelompok Bernilai: Kunci Keaktifan dan Kemampuan Menulis Teks Tanggapan Siswa VII SMP

The ability to write response texts is an important skill for junior high school students. This ability can help students to understand and communicate their ideas clearly and effectively. However, based on observations and data obtained from teachers, many junior high school students experience difficulty in writing response texts. This can be seen from the low scores of students in the response text material. This research aims to increase the activeness and ability to write response texts of class VII students at SMPN 24 Makassar through value-added group discussion methods. This research uses a classroom action research design with 4 cycles. The research subjects were students. Data was collected through observation, rubric assessment, and interviews. The research results show that the value-added group discussion method can increase students' activeness and ability to write response texts. This increase can be seen from the increase in student participation in group discussions, the frequency of expressing opinions and ideas, the frequency of asking questions, student focus and attention, the quality of the response text framework, the quality of paragraph development, and the quality of language use. The findings of this research indicate that the value-added group discussion method can be an effective alternative learning method to increase students' activeness and learning ability in Indonesian language subjects, especially response text material.

Prevalence, perceptions and associated factors of health insurance enrollment among older persons in selected cash grant communities in Ghana: a cross-sectional mixed method

BackgroundUniversal Health Coverage has been openly recognized in the United Nations health-related Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, though missing under the Millennium Development Goals. Ghana implemented the National Health Insurance Scheme programme in 2004 to improve financial access to healthcare for its citizens. This programme targeting low-income individuals and households includes an Exempt policy for older persons and indigents. Despite population ageing, evidence of the participation and perceptions of older persons in the scheme in cash grant communities is unknown. Hence, this paper examined the prevalence, perceptions and factors associated with health insurance enrollment among older persons in cash grant communities in Ghana.MethodsData were from a cross-sectional household survey of 400 older persons(60 + years) and eight FGDs between 2017 and 2018. For the survey, stratified and simple random sampling techniques were utilised in selecting participants. Purposive and stratified sampling techniques were employed in selecting the focus group discussion participants. Data analyses included descriptive, modified Poisson regression approach tested at a p-value of 0.05 and thematic analysis. Stata and Atlas-ti software were used in data management and analyses.ResultsThe mean age was 73.7 years. 59.3% were females, 56.5% resided in rural communities, while 34.5% had no formal education. Two-thirds were into agriculture. Three-fourth had non-communicable diseases. Health insurance coverage was 60%, and mainly achieved as Exempt by age. Being a female [Adjusted Prevalence Ratio (APR) 1.29, 95%CI:1.00–1.67], having self-rated health status as bad [APR = 1.34, 95%CI:1.09–1.64] and hospital healthcare utilisation [APR = 1.49, 95%CI:1.28–1.75] were positively significantly associated with health insurance enrollment respectively. Occupation in Agriculture reduced insurance enrollment by 20.0%. Cited reasons for poor perceptions of the scheme included technological challenges and unsatisfactory services.ConclusionHealth insurance enrollment among older persons in cash grant communities is still not universal. Addressing identified challenges and integrating the views of older persons into the programme have positive implications for securing universal health coverage by 2030.

Analysis of student responses toward activities using e-learning in higher education

The aim of this study is to investigate how students respond to learning activities using e-learning. Researchers analyzed students' responses based on four aspects of activity, including attendance discipline, assignment collection accuracy, enthusiastic use of e-learning teaching materials, and participation in group discussions. The research method used in this study is a quantitative descriptive method and usability testing method. The data analysis technique used is descriptive percentage. The sample for this study consisted of 100 students from the informatics education study program, including the batches of 2019, 2020, and 2021. The results showed that the average response rate of students towards e-learning activities was 67.19% for the year 2019, 81.32% for the year 2020, and 78.59% for the year 2021. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that students from all three batches responded positively to the e-learning activities.

Influence of economic factors on feacal emptying, conveyance and disposal:

Safe management of faecal waste is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which envisions safe sanitation for all. However, although efforts to improve sanitation conditions in slums have been made, faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal still remain a challenge endangering the health of the public. The study examined the influence of economic factors on faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal in on-site sanitation facilities in Meru slums. A convergent design with a mixed methods approach was adopted. Quantitative data was collected using structured questionnaires from a sample of 228 household heads selected using cluster and proportionate simple random sampling techniques. Correlation and regression analysis was carried out to ascertain the association between emptying, conveyance and disposal of faecal waste and the economic factors. Qualitative data was gathered using focus group discussion participants with eight (8) who included four (4) pit operators, 3 household heads and 1 Public Health Officer (PHO) and results analyzed thematically. Findings showed that only 31% of slum dwellers emptied latrine pits and that manual emptying was more common (84%) than mechanical emptying because of its cost efficiency, reliability and the effectiveness in handling plastics, glasses, metal pieces, diapers and sanitary pads contained in pits. Increased cost constrained faecal emptying, conveyance, and disposal (r=0.499, p-value=0.000). Residents who were able to pay for faecal handling services were more likely to practice hygienic faecal emptying, conveyance, and disposal (r=0.524, p-value=0.000). Low level of income for majority of slum dwellers influenced the design of the latrines adopted. Emptying faeces from poorly designed pit latrines was more expensive due to operators’ safety concerns. The study concluded that the inability to meet the costs associated with faecal emptying, conveyance and disposal services facilitated poor sanitation status in slums. There is need to sensitize the slum community on the benefits of practicing safe management of faecal waste. The study recommended development of government policies to regulate mechanical emptying conveyance and disposal of faecal matter.

Coping with Academic Work and Nursing Motherhood: The Case of Akenten Appiah Minkah University of Skills, Training and Entrepreneurial Development (Aamusted), Kumasi

The study explored how student nursing mothers cope with academic work at AAMUSTED. An interpretive philosophical paradigm, qualitative research approach and exploratory case study design were used to guide the study. The study was grounded in Role Conflict and self-determination theories. A combination of purposive and snowball sampling techniques was used to select 15 nursing mothers for the study. The data were gathered through interviews and a detailed observation of the nursing students using an observation guide. The data collected from the interview was analysed using an inductive analysis approach while the observation was analysed using content analysis. The results revealed that student nursing mothers face numerous challenges in their pursuit of academic achievement but they adopt several ways to cope with them. Combining childcare, post-maternity complications and family demands makes it very difficult for student nursing mothers to focus on their academic work. To deal with these challenges, students nursing mothers relied on their husbands, hiring a babysitter, participation in group discussion, developing a good relationship with lecturers and using other psychological tactics to enhance learning. Also, most students, breastfeeding were interrupted by “lecture calls” and had to run back to lectures to avoid missing out. It is recommended that universities should consider instituting policies that can offer student nursing mothers’ academic leverage and infrastructure support. Women must also be encouraged to have stable sources of income before pursing further studies to help them financially. Husbands are encouraged to support their wives and partners to further their education and provide them with necessary support they need at early stages of childcare

Instructional Integrity for Blended Learning of Faculty Members in a Philippine State University

For quality instructions to be successful in the blended learning modality, it is essentially important to ensure the faculty member’s instructional integrity in terms of credibility, clarity, and rapport. Thus, this mixed-method research, particularly explanatory sequential design, aimed to assess the instructional integrity of faculty members for blended learning in one of the State Universities in the Western Visayas Region in the Philippines. 378 participants evaluated their 209 course instructors/ professors using a validated and reliable researcher-made questionnaire-checklist titled Instructional Integrity Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics employed were frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. At the same time, t-tests for Independent Samples, One-way Analysis of Variance, and Least Significant Difference (LSD) were used as inferential statistics set at a .05 alpha level in a two-tailed test. The findings of the study revealed that the level of instructional integrity in terms of credibility, clarity, and rapport was very high. There was a significant difference in the level of instructional integrity in terms of credibility, clarity, and rapport when categorized as college. Moreover, the majority of the participants in the focus group discussion emphasized that their instructors/professors were highly credible, highly understandable and highly enjoyable, as evident in their coded responses and the themes provided.

Can an advanced practice nursing framework address workforce shortages? A case study of a regional health service

Background Across the globe, shortages of nurses and midwives in rural regions persist. Advanced practice nursing has been found to address workforce shortages through career progression aimed at retention. A regional health service sought to consult with staff about developing an advanced practice nursing framework. Aims This study aimed to explore the perspectives of nurses and midwives at a regional health service on (i) how their roles aligned with the modified Advanced Practice Role Delineation (APRD) tool and (ii) the potential for implementation of such a framework at their service. Design A case study conducted at Goulburn Valley Health (GVH) in southeast Australia used a mixed method design with a survey of all nursing and midwifery staff and focus groups with senior staff. Methods All nurses and midwives were asked to complete a validated modified ARPD questionnaire and those in Grades 3–6 were asked to participate in a focus group. Results From 183 questionnaires and 38 participants in the focus group discussions, findings concurred that nurses and midwives at GVH reported spending most time on direct patient care and minimal time on research activities, publication and/or leadership. While education was strongly embraced and advanced practice usually supported, senior staff cited the lack of resources, the culture and staff shortages as restricting opportunities for education, career development and implementation of an advanced practice framework. Conclusions While an advanced practice framework could address staff shortages at this health service, implementation of such a framework is constrained by the lack of resources and workforce shortages common in rural health services. A national strategy that embeds advanced practice roles and resources implementation of advanced practice nursing and midwifery frameworks in areas of need is recommended.

Running Toward Equity: Socioeconomic Diversity and Parental Perception of a Physical Activity-Based Positive Youth Development Program for Girls

The Girls on the Run (GOTR) is a national positive youth development program to promote self-confidence, resilience, and self-esteem for girls through physical activity. It also includes an opportunity for parent involvement in a 5K event at the end of the program. Given the evidence on the importance of family support and parent role modeling for children’s physical activity, the purpose of this study was to explore how parents from different socioeconomic backgrounds view their daughters’ participation in GOTR and their own attitudes toward physical activity. Parents were recruited from high and low resource sites for participation in online focus group discussions. Questions included perspective on their daughter’s participation in GOTR, their own physical activity, and participation in the GOTR 5K event. Discussions were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed from two focus groups with parents from low resource sites (N=10) and two with parents from high resource sites (N= 15). A common theme across resource groups was that GOTR enhances self-confidence, communication skills, and physical activity. More parents from the high resource sites reported being physically active and having supportive environments than low resource site parents. While some parents noted intention to participate in the 5K with their daughter, more parents in the low resource group reported barriers to physical activity and participating in the 5K event. There is an opportunity to encourage and facilitate parental 5K participation to create a ripple effect for benefits of the GOTR program.

Factors influencing the uptake and utilization of cervical cancer screening services among women attending public health centers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: mixed methods study

BackgroundCervical cancer is the second cause of cancer deaths among Ethiopian women. Despite multifaceted government efforts, the uptake and utilization of cervical cancer screening remain very low. This study aimed to assess factors influencing the uptake and utilization of cervical cancer screening at public health centers in Addis Ababa.MethodsA convergent parallel mixed-method study was employed to collect data through eight focus group discussions with 66 women purposively recruited from outpatient clinics, and cross-sectional face-to-face exit interviews with 80 women attending cervical cancer clinics in four high-patient volume health centers. The group interviews were tape-recorded, transcribed in Amharic, translated into English, and a thematic analysis approach was used in the analysis. Exit interview data were collected using a structured questionnaire in the Open Data Kit tool on an android tablet. STATA version 17 was used for descriptive and inferential data analyses. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe majority of focus group discussion participants had lack of knowledge of cervical cancer and its screening services. The major barriers to the uptake of screening were inadequate public awareness, fear of the procedure, embarrassment, provider’s gender, lack of male partner support, and childcare. Women aged 40 years and above were 13.9 times more likely to utilize cervical cancer screening than those under 30 years (AOR = 13.85; 95% CI: 1.40, 136.74). There was a strong preference for a female provider (AOR = 7.07; 95% CI: 1.53, 32.75) among women screened after attending antiretroviral therapy clinics and those screened due to abnormal vaginal bleeding than women referred from family planning clinics (AOR = 6.87; 95% CI: 1.02, 46.44). Safety of screening was negatively associated with women aged 30–39 (AOR = 0.045; 95% CI: 0.003, 0.696), and those who attended primary education, and secondary education and above, (AOR = 0.016; 95% CI: 0.001, 0.262), and (AOR = 0.054; 95% CI: 0.004, 0.724), respectively.ConclusionsThe study identified low public awareness, inadequate provider preference, safety concerns, and poor male partner support for cervical cancer screening. We recommend the decision-makers enhance public messages, maintain provider choices, ensure safety, and engage males to improve the uptake and utilization of cervical cancer screening.