Health Perception Research Articles

Evaluation of social support, discrimination, and perceived health in patients with gastrointestinal tract cancers.

802 Background: Health-related social conditions affect cancer outcomes. Gastrointestinal cancers (GIC) comprise a large proportion of cancers diagnosed in the United States. We hypothesized that a diagnosis of GIC negatively impacts Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and perceived health (PH). Methods: Prospectively collected data from The All of Us database was queried for GIC patients who completed SDOH and PH surveys. Healthy, non-cancer (NC) participants were matched to GIC based on age, race, sex, deprivation index, and Charlson Deyo comorbidities using Propensity Score Matching. Regression was used to analyze the relationship between cancer status and survey scores. Results: A total of 231,033 patients met the criteria: 14,032 GIC and 217,001 NC. The majority of patients were white (69%%), female (59.2%), and non-Hispanic (97.2%). Colorectal cancer was most represented (81%), followed by anus (12%), stomach (3%), and pancreatic (1%) cancers. The median time between cancer diagnosis and survey response was 3.4 years (IQR 1.4-6.5 years). With respect to SDOH, GIC patients perceived more social support (β 0.07 [95% CI: 0.04, 0.10]), more neighborhood positivity (β 0.07 [95% CI: 0.05, 0.10]) and less healthcare discrimination (β -0.03 [95% CI: -0.06, -0.01]) (Table, NC is reference). GIC surveyed < 1 year after their diagnosis scored higher on social support than those surveyed > 1 year (β 0.13 [95% CI: 0.05, 0.21]). For PH, GIC were 15% more likely to report better mental health and 33% more likely to report better quality of life (QOL). Those diagnosed < 1 year before their survey had no difference in perceived physical and general health compared to NC, although their QOL (OR 1.3 [95% CI: 1.2-1.4]) and mental health (OR 1.1[95% CI: 1.0-1.2]) were similar to those surveyed > 1 year after the diagnosis. Chemotherapy-treated GIC patients reported better PH in all four domains than those not treated with chemotherapy, including QOL (OR 1.3, [95% CI: 1.2-1.5]) and mental health (OR 1.2, [95% CI: 1.1-1.4]). Conclusions: Findings of this survey study reveal that a GI cancer diagnosis has a favorable impact on SDOH and PH - GIC feel more supported, less discriminated, and perceive better health compared to NC, and time of cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy impact outcomes. A concerted societal effort is required to improve health related social conditions for individuals with and without cancer. Impact of cancer status on perceived health and social determinants of health. Social Determinants of Health* Beta (95% CI) P Value Social Support 0.074 (0.04, 0.10) < 0.001 Neighborhood Positive 0.074 (0.05, 0.10) < 0.001 Healthcare Discrimination -0.034 (-0.06, -0.01) < 0.001 UCLA Loneliness -0.013 (-0.03, 0.01) 0.196 Perceived Health Domain* Odds Ratio (95% CI) P Value Quality of Life 1.32 (1.27, 1.38) < 0.001 Physical Health 1.27 (1.21, 1.32) < 0.001 Mental Health 1.15 (1.10, 1.20) < 0.001 General Health 1.26 (1.21, 1.32) < 0.001 *Comparison is gastrointestinal cancer vs. non-cancer, with non-cancer as the reference group.

Migrant Farmworkers' Acceptability of Health Services in Spain: Barriers and Facilitators Identified by Professionals.

Seasonal migrant farmworkers (SMF) make up a significant part of Spain's agricultural labour force. Due to precarious labour conditions, housing insecurity and factors related to migration, SMF are at risk of specific health issues and occupational accidents. In addition, migrants in Spain face barriers when accessing healthcare services. This study explores factors that influence the acceptability of healthcare services among SMF in Spain from the point of view of professionals working with this population. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among 92 professionals working with SMF in four regions of Spain, including NGO workers, healthcare workers, employees of worker unions, public social services and governmental institutions. A thematic content analysis was performed using Atlas.ti. Professionals identified several barriers and facilitators that influence the acceptability of healthcare services among SMF. The main identified barriers were language, different perceptions of health and healthcare between SMF and Spanish professionals, a limited understanding of the Spanish healthcare system, and precarious working and living conditions. The main identified facilitators were professionals taking time to explain healthcare procedures and rights to SMF and support and information from friends, family and other community members. To overcome barriers, the use of translational services and cultural mediators should be increased. In addition, educational interventions are needed for migrants to better understand the Spanish healthcare system and for healthcare workers to provide culturally appropriate care to migrant patients. Finally, it needs to be considered that inequalities in health and healthcare between SMF and the Spanish native-born population reach beyond healthcare institutions. They are rooted in structural factors, which include their living and working conditions, social exclusion, and discrimination. As this study, which is part of a bigger project, aimed to focus on healthcare access mainly from the healthcare system perspective, patients and service users were not involved in this part. Another sub-study within the project will focus on the experience of SMF. Caregivers were included as study participants and despite not having been directly included in the study design, the open-ended questions used in this study allowed them to bring up the topics they considered important in the context of this study.

"Anybody who can clarify or humanize the experience would be such a help": An interpretive description of perceptions of genomic health and nursing care in individuals with cancer predisposition syndromes.

There is increased use of genomic testing in oncology care. Yet, individuals with hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS) experience challenges when navigating the lifelong CPS healthcare considerations. The purpose of this study is to describe the healthcare experiences of individuals living with CPS and their perceptions of genomic-informed nursing care. Interpretive description (ID) was the qualitative approach used in this patient-oriented research study, conducted in partnership with two individuals with lived experience of CPS. Participants were recruited to participate in an interview using a variety of public and provider/patient network sampling sources. Inductive data analysis was guided by general steps for ID analysis as described by Sally Thorne. Thirty-seven individuals who self-reported a CPS participated in interviews between April and August 2023. Two primary themes were identified: 1), When genomic knowledge is power, and 2), Perceived acceptability of nursing roles in CPS care. Participants described genomic knowledge as a form of personal and family empowerment, but many reported that CPS-related knowledge is inaccessible in the healthcare system. This often resulted in healthcare experiences that were insufficient and fragmented. Although participants reported minimal nursing involvement in their CPS care, there was a consensus that enhanced nursing contributions could be beneficial. They particularly endorsed the potential value of a dedicated oncology genomic nursing role. Findings highlight patient-endorsed opportunities for nurses at the generalized and specialized levels to contribute to improved cancer genomic care. Findings can be used to inform novel models of clinical care for individuals with CPS.

Exploring brain health awareness and dementia risk in young adults: A focus group study.

The topic of brain health across the life-course is currently receiving exponential attention. Alongside this, exposure to lifestyle-related risk factors for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias accumulates across the life-course. This study aimed to explore young adults' (18-39 years) perceptions and understanding of brain health and dementia risk. This study employed a phenomenological descriptive qualitative methodology to examine the lived experiences and perceptions of participants. Focus groups were conducted with 39 young adults (18 female, 2 non-binary) from North America (n=20) and Europe (n=19), conducted via video conference. Participants' awareness and understanding of brain health and dementia risk factors varied, influenced by factors such as general health, family history of dementia, and personal experiences with brain health issues (e.g., traumatic brain injury). The data revealed rich insights into how participants connected (or did not connect) lifestyle factors to brain health and dementia risk. This study is among the first to explore young adults' perceptions of brain health across diverse populations. While participants demonstrated moderate awareness of factors affecting brain health, they often struggled to link these factors directly to dementia risk or protective measures.

Physical Health Views Among Individuals Experiencing Mental Illness: A Mixed-Methods Study of Self-Reported Health and Contributing Factors.

Severe mental illness is linked to poor physical health and shorter life expectancy, yet research on how individuals experiencing mental illness view and on improve their physical health is limited. This study investigates the perceptions of individuals experiencing mental illness regarding their physical health, utilising a mixed-methods approach. Phase I involved quantitative and qualitative data from an online Qualtrics survey, which included the 12-item Short Form (SF-12) survey to measure participants' quality of life and assess self-reported physical and mental health. Key findings from Phase I revealed significant relationships between lower Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores and factors such as the frequency of GP visits. Additionally, exercise preferences were found to significantly impact Mental Component Summary (MCS) scores, with individuals who preferred a mix of exercise settings reporting higher MCS scores compared to those who exercised alone or with a training partner. Phase II explored these findings further through semi-structured interviews, where participants discussed themes including physical health perceptions, the role of medication and the importance of the general practitioner relationship. Thematic analysis revealed five main barriers to improving physical health: accessibility and availability of services, motivation, staff attitudes, medication side effects and the experience of diagnostic overshadowing. Participants reported viewing physical and mental health as interconnected and expressed a desire for more collaborative care. The results suggest that strengthening the relationship with GPs and increasing awareness of medication side effects may improve physical health outcomes for individuals experiencing mental illness. Mental health nurses can play a pivotal role in enhancing physical health outcomes by monitoring, supporting health-improving strategies and facilitating access to primary care services.

The effects of socio-economic and environmental factors on Korean suicidal ideation: A Bayesian multilevel analysis.

This study investigated how socio-economic and environmental factors contribute to suicidal ideation in South Korea. This was a cross-sectional study. Using a Bayesian multilevel analysis, the study highlights the impact of housing insecurity, financial burden, and subjective health perceptions on mental health. Data from the 2018 Korea Health Panel and regional statistics were used to analyze variables at the individual, household, and regional levels. The results suggest that poor subjective health perception, depression, and a precarious financial situation increase suicidal ideation. Regions with high housing vacancies exhibit lower suicide ideation rates, implying that reduced housing competition may alleviate mental stress. Targeted mental health interventions and improved housing policies are required to help vulnerable populations.

Clinical outcomes of a real-world prospective study using Dexcom ONE continuous glucose monitoring in people with diabetes treated with two or more insulin injections per day.

This study assessed real-world glycaemic outcomes associated with the use of Dexcom ONE in adults with suboptimally controlled diabetes. In this single-site prospective study, adults with type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) taking two or more insulin injections per day initiated Dexcom ONE CGM use and attended follow-up data collection visits after 3 and 6 months. During the study, participants received usual diabetes care. Primary outcome was a change in HbA1c at 6 months. Additional outcomes included change in participant-reported outcomes and CGM-derived time in glucose range 3.9-10 mmol/L (TIR), time above range >10 mmol/L (TAR), and time below range <3.9 mmol/L (TBR). There were 110 adults enrolled [T1D (n = 34): mean age 36.6 years, 55.9% female; T2D (n = 76): mean age 54.9 years, 38.2% female]. Mean HbA1c significantly decreased from 90 mmol/mol (10.3%) to 79 mmol/mol (9.4%) at 6 months (∆-12 mmol/mol, p < 0.001) in T1D users and from 86 mmol/mol (10.1%) to 67 mmol/mol (8.3%) in T2D users (∆-18 mmol/mol, p < 0.001). Perception of health and diabetes distress improved at 6 months for both groups. T1D users had modest improvement in TBR. T2D users exhibited a clinically meaningful increase in TIR (∆ + 9.0%). Real-world Dexcom ONE use was associated with clinically significant reductions in mean HbA1c after 6 months, along with meaningful improvements in participant-reported outcomes. CGM-derived outcomes also improved, with the possibility of there being greater improvement than could be captured in this study. These findings support expanding access to this real-time CGM system.

Investigation of the effect of internet addiction on cyberchondria

ABSTRACT This research was conducted to examine the effect of internet addiction on cyberchondria. The research is important to understand how today’s digital technologies contribute to health-related concerns and affect individuals’ perceptions of health. Quantitative research design was used in this research conducted in Konya, a metropolitan city in Turkey. The study was conducted using the convenience sampling method on 403 participants. In the research, ‘Personal Information Form’, ‘Internet Addiction Scale’ and ‘Cyberchondria Scale’ were used. The data were analyzed with the SPSS program. As an analysis method, upon determining that the data were normally distributed, t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation and simple linear regression analyzes were applied in independent groups. The majority of participants (69%) were female, 52.9% were between the ages of 18–27 and 53.8% were married. In terms of education level, 44.9% had a bachelor’s degree or higher, and 59.6% earned minimum wage or less. Among the occupational groups, the largest proportion was students (31.5%), and their daily internet use was mostly 2–3 hours (44.4%). Internet is most frequently used for social media (47.4%) and news/agenda follow-up (25.1%). Within the scope of the research, internet addiction varies significantly according to the participants’ age groups, education levels, professions, average daily internet usage time, and internet usage purposes; it was found that the cyberchondria levels of the participants showed significant differences according to the variables of income level, profession, daily internet usage time and internet use purpose. The research revealed a positive and significant relationship between the level of internet addiction and the level of cyberchondria. It has also been observed that internet addiction has a positive and significant effect on cyberchondria. These results show that cyberchondria tendencies become stronger with the increase in internet use among individuals.

Psychometric properties of an instrument measuring monkeypox knowledge, perception, and beliefs of health threat in health science students in a middle-income country

Objective This study aimed to establish the factor structure and reliability of the evaluation instrument measuring monkeypox (Mpox) knowledge, perception and beliefs of health threat in students of the health area in two universities of Peru during 2022. Methods The methodology used was psychometric in nature. The study variable on knowledge of Mpox was based on the instrument made by Ricco et al., carried out with health professionals, adjusted to Peru and administered to 416 students. Results The results showed adequate goodness-of-fit indicators with RMSEA and SRMR coefficients lower than 0.08 and a TLI lower than 0.90 and adequate reliability values for knowledge of Mpox (KR20=0.70 and α=0.73), with the perception of health threats being the one with the highest reliability (α=0.88 and Ω=0.89). Conclusions Having instruments that accurately reflect the knowledge, perception and beliefs of health students will make it possible to contribute significantly to the prevention, control and management of this disease and, at the same time, be prepared to address other challenges of public health in the future.

Experimental Test of Perceptions of Psychedelics by Therapeutic and Recreational Use

ABSTRACT Recent research on the potential therapeutic value of psychedelic substances has led to changes in media representation and drug policy in some U.S. states. Yet, little is known about lay perceptions of these substances. The current study aimed to describe health perceptions of psychedelic substances, test differences in perceptions of therapeutic vs. recreational use of psychedelic substances, and determine if such perceptions vary by use experience. Participants (N = 309) completed an online within-subjects experiment in which they responded to measures of positive and negative perceptions of therapeutic and recreational use of psychedelics. Endorsement of positive and negative health perceptions of psychedelics was moderate to strong. Recreational use was perceived as having more negative health consequences, while therapeutic use was perceived as having more positive health consequences. Participants who reported lifetime psychedelic use (40.7%) perceived both recreational and therapeutic uses as having more positive health consequences, and this pattern was consistent across most perception domains. The outcomes suggest that public perceptions of use may change based on reason for use. This information may aid in filling current gaps in knowledge and identifying potential targets for public health communications, and such approaches may benefit from considering prior use experience.

Psychological Factors Associated with Fear of Falling and Fear of Falling Avoidance Behavior in Older Adults: Results from a National Sample

ABSTRACT Objectives This study aimed to identify psychological factors and characteristics associated with fear of falling (FOF) and fear of falling avoidance behavior (FFAB) among older adults. Methods This cross-sectional study used data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study (Wave 9, n = 4,977). Results We found that increased fall history, more frequent depression and anxiety, and poorer perceived overall health were significantly higher among older adults with FFAB compared to FOF (ps < .001). Perceived overall health, depression, and anxiety explained a significant amount of variance in FOF and FFAB. Lastly, demographic characteristics differ between older adults reporting no FOF/FFAB, FOF, and FFAB. Conclusions FOF and FFAB are prevalent among older adults. Older adults experiencing FFAB had poorer health perceptions, more falls, and more frequent depression and anxiety than those experiencing FOF. The association of psychological factors and demographic characteristics with FOF and FFAB may indicate potential treatment targets. Clinical Implications: Addressing psychological variables, such as health perception, anxiety, and depression among older adults, may mitigate the impact of FOF and the development of FFAB; however, further research is needed.

Caregivers’ Experience of Supporting Deaf Adults with Mental Health Disorders in Ghana

Background: Caregivers play a crucial role in the support and management of individuals experiencing mental health disorders; however, there is a paucity of research concerning the experiences of caregivers of deaf persons diagnosed with any form of mental disorder in Ghana. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of these caregivers, with a particular focus on their perceptions of mental health, available support systems, challenges encountered, and the consequent impact on familial relationships while supporting this underserved population. Method: This qualitative study engaged eleven family caregivers of deaf adults diagnosed with a mental health disorders made up of ten females and one male aged 45–68 years, recruited across four of the sixteen administrative regions in Ghana. Utilizing a semi-structured interview guide, face-to-face interviews were conducted to gather in-depth narratives from the participants. Results: Thematic analysis of the data revealed several key themes, including the awareness and understanding of mental health disorders, availability and accessibility of mental health support services and training, dynamics of psychosocial and familial relationships, and the multifaceted challenges faced in caregiving for individuals with mental health disorders. Conclusion: The findings underscored an urgent need for the development of a specialized caregiving manual tailored for caregivers of deaf individuals experiencing mental health disorders. This study advocates for policymakers to prioritize the creation of such resources to enhance care delivery and improve overall mental health outcomes for this vulnerable population.

Factors associated with dental care utilization among Iranian adult populations based on Anderson model

BackgroundThe utilization of dental care is affected by different factors. Despite the importance of dental care, there are significant disparities in its utilization among various population groups. The aim of this study was to identify the main factors of dental care utilization and the influences of the Health Transformation Plan (HTP) in Iran based on the Anderson model.Methods and materialsThis cross-sectional house-by-house study was conducted during Aug-Nov 2022 among 704 adult people in two cities under the coverage of the HTP and two cities out-side the plan using a multi-stage sampling method. Dental visit in the last year was considered as the utilization of the dental services. Independent Factors included the contextual, individual enabling, individual predisposing and individual need factors based on the Andersen model. Personal health behaviors were also assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests, simple and multivariable logistic regression models (α < 0.05).ResultsThe 63.1% of the participants covered by the HTP and 57.7% of the population outside the plan sought dental care in the past year. In the final model individuals in the 35–44 age group (OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 1.02–2.2), males (OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.2–2.5), single individuals (OR = 1.4, 95% CI = 1.01-2) and those with the perception of need for dental treatment (OR = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.3–3.4) had higher chance of dental visit. Better perceived oral health status was associated with lower chance of visiting the dentist (OR = 0.9, 95% CI = 0.8–0.9). Being covered by the HTP was not significantly in association with the chance of dental visit in the last year (p value = 0.19, OR = 0.78, 95%CI = 0.55–1.12).ConclusionThe predisposing factors including age, gender, marital status, and perceived oral health status and perceptions of dental need were the main factors in association with the dental utilization behavior among adults and the coverage by the HTP did not have significant effect on it.

Perception of Quality of Life by Primary Caregivers of Children with Congenital Zika Syndrome: a Cross-Sectional Study.

The study aimed to evaluate the quality of life (QoL) of caregivers of children diagnosed with CZS and to assess the association of findings with socioeconomicand CZS-associated variables. This was a cross-sectional, quantitative study, carried out over three days of multidisciplinary care for patients with CZS. Sixty-four participants underwent a quality of life assessment using the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) in Portuguese. Both groups of caregivers attributed regular scores for Global QoL, and all WHOQOL-BREF domains. Among caregivers of children with CZS, QoL correlated with three of the four WHOQOL-BREF domains (psychological health: rho = 0.49, p < 0.001; social relationships: rho = 0.28, p < 0.023; and environment: rho = 0.11, p < 0.006), while general health perception correlated with three other domains (physical health: rho = 0.49, p < 0.001; psychological health: rho = 0.31, p < 0.012; and social relationships: rho = 0.30, p < 0.016). The environment domain was associated with the level of education in this population (p < 0.001). Macular scarring and focal pigmentary retinal mottling were significantly associated with the physical environment (p = 0.039), negative feelings (p = 0.035), support and social aid (p = 0.020). The present study demonstrates that the WHOQOL-BREF is an effective method to evaluate the general perception of QoL among caregivers of children with CZS. Our results also suggest that caregivers of children with CZS do not experience a reduced quality of life compared to caregivers of typically developing children.

Associations between Food Insecurity and Perceived Overall Health, Stress, and Counseling Utilization among a Representative Sample of the Active-Duty U.S. Military, 2020.

In 2020, approximately 10% of U.S. civilian households were food insecure compared to over 25% of households with active-duty U.S. military service members. Given the increased risk for food insecurity in the military, it's vital to investigate both the precursors and consequences of food insecurity in military populations. To determine associations between food insecurity and perceived overall health, stress, and psychological counseling utilization in U.S. military service members. Using weighted logistic regressions, we conducted secondary analyses of the 2020 Status of Forces Survey-Active Duty (unweighted n = 12,324), a nationally representative cross-sectional, probability-based survey of U.S. military service members. Approximately 25% of respondents were food insecure. Respondents with low (AOR: 1.34; 95% CI: 1.11-1.60) and very low food security (AOR: 1.66; 95% CI: 1.30-2.12) had significantly greater odds of current work-related stress compared to food secure respondents. Respondents with low (AOR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.17-1.87) and very low food security (AOR: 1.86; 95% CI: 1.41-2.45) had lower self-perceived overall health when compared to food secure respondents. There was no association between food insecurity and psychological counseling utilization. Although food insecure respondents had higher odds of stress and poorer perceptions of overall health, they had similar odds of utilizing counseling support, suggesting potential opportunities for specialized engagement. A broader approach is needed to encourage military leadership engagement with service members for counseling support and supplemental nutrition assistance resources.

Quality of life, pain, depression, fatigue and sleep in patients with remission or mild fibromyalgia: a comparison with remission or low disease activity rheumatoid arthritis and healthy controls

BackgroundFibromyalgia is a chronic condition marked by widespread pain and various accompanying symptoms. Compared to healthy individuals and other rheumatic disease patients, it leads to more severe symptoms and a lower quality of life. Whether fibromyalgia patients in a mild activity or remission stage still experience core symptoms remains unclear.ObjectiveTo compare the severity of clinical symptoms and quality of life (QOL) in patients with remission or mild fibromyalgia (RFM) and remission or low disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RRA) patients and healthy controls (HCs) to investigate whether fibromyalgia in a stable stage can be disease-free.MethodsThis cross-sectional study evaluated a total of 266 RFM and 252 RRA patients and 50 HCs using Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR), Widespread Pain Index (WPI), Pain Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Numerical Rating Scale, Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36).ResultsThe FIQR total score and pain VAS, MFI, and PSQI scores were higher in RFM and RRA patients compared to HCs (P < 0.001). RFM patients had higher BDI and WPI scores than RRA patients (P < 0.001). The majority of RFM patients (97.4%) had more than two pain sites, with moderate-to-severe pain (78.2%), sleep disorders (85.0%), and depression (53.4%), all of which were significantly higher than those in RRA patients (P < 0.001). RFM patients also had lower scores in SF-36 physical and mental component summaries and subscores for role physical, pain index, general health perception, vitality, and mental health index, but a higher social functioning score than RRA patients (P < 0.001).ConclusionDespite being in a mild activity or remission stage, RFM patients experience more severe symptoms and poorer QOL than RRA patients. Therefore, individualized evaluation and intensive management are required.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02449395, registered on May 20, 2015.

Research on biomechanics-informed rural planning strategies for enhancing biodiversity and health

Rapid urbanization has resulted in decreased biodiversity, adversely impacting ecosystem functions and human health, especially in rural regions. Biomechanics-informed rural planning integrates principles of biological mechanics with biodiversity enhancement and public health objectives to establish sustainable communities. Purpose: This study aims to foster resilient ecosystems and healthier rural populations by introducing biomechanics-informed approaches to rural planning that synergize biodiversity enhancement with health promotion. Methods: This study bridges the knowledge gap by examining the relationship among biomechanically efficient behaviors, personal health, and ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction (EDRR) through the lens of the Health Belief Model (HBM). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to investigate the correlations between the study's key variables. The research focused on a rural community impacted by disaster to test the hypotheses, exploring biomechanics-informed rural planning strategies that facilitate sustainable development and biodiversity enhancement. Results: The findings indicate that health perceptions and EDRR attributes indirectly influence biomechanically efficient behaviors. Specifically, participation in activities that support biodiversity is positively associated with perceptions of social integration benefits, EDRR awareness, and health promotion. Conclusion: This study underscores the potential to integrate biomechanics into Emergency Disaster Risk Reduction (EDRR) initiatives and community planning to encourage healthy lifestyles and enhance the environmental sustainability of resilient communities.

The Effects of the Mamanet Cachibol League Intervention Program on Perceived Health Status, Mental Health, and Healthy Lifestyle Among Arab Women.

Background: The Israeli Mamanet Cachibol League (MCL) is a community-oriented athletic program serving mothers through non-competitive recreational sports participation. This study aimed to assess the effects of the MCL on perceived health status, mental health (happiness, depression, social capital), and healthy lifestyle behaviors (physical activity and nutrition). Methods: This is an experimental study with a sample of 231 women (174 in the experimental group and 57 in the control). Participants completed questionnaires in November 2023 (T1) and then in August 2024 (T2). The questionnaire included questions on sociodemographic characteristics, perceived health status, mental health (happiness, depression, social capital), and healthy lifestyle behaviors (physical activity and nutrition). Results: At T1, the MCL participants reported better mental health (higher subjective happiness and social capital and lower depressive symptoms) than the control group. Over time, participation in the MCL led to significant improvements in mental health (reductions in depression and increases in subjective happiness and social capital). The participants showed substantial improvements in healthy lifestyle behaviors, with moderate effect sizes (effects size > 0.5) observed across these areas. Sociodemographic factors influenced the outcomes, with variations in health perception and physical activity linked to marital status and education level. Conclusions: Participation in the MCL program was associated with better mental health at baseline and significantly improved over time compared to the control group. The MCL participants also showed gains in healthy lifestyle behaviors, highlighting the importance of tailored interventions.

Effect of individual health perception, health consultation, and other risk factors on undiagnosed hypertension in South Africa

BackgroundSimilar to other nations, hypertension control is a challenge for public health in South Africa. To control hypertension, the condition must be screened and diagnosed in the public health system. This study examines how the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension is influenced by various risk factors including demographic, socioeconomic, environmental, and behavioural factors, with primary focus on self-perceived health well-being and time since the last healthcare consultation.MethodsThe study utilized data from the National Income Dynamics Study (NiDS), a panel survey conducted approximately every two years between 2008 and 2017. Participants aged 15 years and older with at least two blood pressure measurements were included. The sample included 15,712 unique individuals (60.0% women) and 31,340 observations from the five survey waves (5,357 in 2008; 5,206 in 2010/11; 6,385 in 2012; 7,060 in 2014/15; and 7,332 in 2017). Both descriptive and analytical methods were used to study undiagnosed hypertension. Multilevel logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between undiagnosed hypertension with various risk factors including perceived health well-being and time since last health consultation.ResultsThe study showed that in 2008 (wave 1) and in 2017 (wave 5), approximately 53.5% and 42.6% respectively, of individuals aged 15 and above were unaware they could be hypertensive. Those who perceived their health as very good or excellent were respectively 2.15, 95% CI [1.89–2.44] and 3.29, 95% CI [2.85–3.80] times more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension, compared to those who perceived their health as fair or poor. Additionally, the risk of having undiagnosed hypertension increased gradually with time since last consultation on one’s health. Those whose last consultation was more than two years ago were 12.10, 95% CI [10.50–13.90] times more likely to have undiagnosed hypertension compared to those who had consulted within the last 30 days.ConclusionGiven that hypertension is often asymptomatic, self-perceived health can be misleading. This underscores the need for health programs to emphasize the importance of regular blood pressure checkups. Regular consultations with healthcare providers are crucial for early detection and management of hypertension.

Responsiveness and clinical utility of PROMIS instruments in pediatric Crohn's disease: insights from a longitudinal study

BackgroundInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) may adversely affect physical, psychological, and social well-being. Integrating patient-reported outcomes (PROs) into clinical practice is crucial for comprehensive disease management.ObjectiveTo evaluate the responsiveness and clinical utility of Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) instruments, compared with standard clinical assessment tools in pediatric CD patients.MethodsA longitudinal, prospective study with 31 pediatric Crohn's disease (CD) patients aged 8–17 years recruited from a Pediatric Gastroenterology Unit. Data were collected at baseline and every 6 months over 18 months. PROMIS pediatric measures assessed PROs. Disease activity was evaluated using the pediatric Crohn's disease activity index (PCDAI) and clinical markers. IMPACT-III was also applied. Linear mixed-effects models (LMMs) and bivariate analyses were used to assess changes over time.ResultsPROMIS Global Health scores showed significant improvement over time, indicating enhanced overall health perceptions among patients. Notable reductions were observed in PROMIS Pain Interference and Fatigue scores, indicating better physical health. PROMIS depression scores generally decreased, suggesting improved mental health. PCDAI scores, hemoglobin, and platelet count significantly changed and correlated with PROMIS measures. Globally, the study demonstrated significant and clinically relevant changes in multiple PROMIS measures, confirming their responsiveness to changes in disease activity.ConclusionPROMIS instruments are clinically useful in managing pediatric CD, providing valuable insights into global health and quality of life. Integrating PROMIS measures into routine clinical practice may enhance disease management and treatment strategies for pediatric IBD patients.