Positive Behavior Change Research Articles

The gaps and strengths towards effective infection prevention and control on a background of knowledge attitude and perception on COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Southeastern Nigeria: a multicentre online cross-sectional survey

The advent of the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic posed a serious health burden locally and globally as it altered people’s daily activities due to restrictive preventive measures instituted by countries and health authorities to curb its spread like wildfire. The undergraduate population remains at the epicentre for the spread and curbing of COVID-19. This study assessed the knowledge, attitude, and perception of COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Southeastern Nigeria. The gaps and strengths achieved towards effective infection prevention and control in the eastern states were assessed. This was a cross-sectional online population-based survey conducted among undergraduate students attending Universities in 5 states (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo), located in Southeastern Nigeria from June 29 to July 20, 2020. A structured pre-tested questionnaire was designed for the Google survey tool (Google Forms), and the generated link was shared with students online. From a total of 1,012 respondents from Universities in Southeastern Nigeria, 560 (55%) were females and 452 (45%) were males. The overall mean age of the respondents was 21.63±0.65years. The age distribution did not vary considerably across states (t=-0.007, p=0.995>0.05). The majority (93.8%) of the respondents were Igbos, Yorubas, and Hausas accounting for 2.6% and 0.4% respectively while 3.3% did not identify their ethnic group. Christians (96.0%) were dominant compared to Islam (2.7%) while traditionalists and other non-captured worshippers accounted for 0.5% and 0.8% respectively. Most of the respondents were in second and fourth years in the university. The variation across the states is statistically significant ( =112.01, p=0.000<0.05). The respondents identified that their main source of information concerning COVID-19 was social media (26.9%). The level of knowledge was highest among people in Anambra state (78.0%); followed by those in Enugu state (74.3%), those in Abia state (72.2%), those in Imo state (70.8%), and lastly, by those in Ebonyi state (65.4%). The participants’ attitudes about COVID-19 safety practices were on average moderately positive (49.2%) with the best result in Imo state (60.5%), followed by Abia state (55.3%), Ebonyi state (52.4%), Enugu state (42.9%) and lastly Anambra state (35.1%). In summary, the respondents’ general perception of the realness, infectiveness, and source is positive (>50.0%) in all the Southeastern states. The knowledge, attitude, and perception of COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Eastern states, of Nigeria were appreciable but a lot has to be done in terms of enhanced public health education, positive behavioural changes as well as proactive preventive measures to curb the progress of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Role of NGOs in Health Capacity Building for Organizational Staff and Volunteers in Myanmar

The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in health capacity building for trained community volunteers in Myanmar, a Least Developed Country (LDC) is significantly noteworthy. The study highlights the training programs and initiatives conducted by NGOs in areas such as sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention, addressing critical needs in family planning, maternal health, GBV prevention, and the prevention of TB, HIV/AIDS, and other infectious diseases. The training programs and packages are designed to equip healthcare providers and community volunteers with fundamental skills, thereby enabling them to effectively address the health issues facing by the community especially among the vulnerable population. The study also points to the effective use of participatory learning methods by NGOs, such as interactive workshops, role-plays, case studies, and group discussions, which actively engage participants and promote an environment conducive to collective learning and knowledge sharing. Furthermore, through FGD, it was found that NGO interventions contribute to positive changes in health behaviors, such as increased awareness of preventive measures and adoption of healthier lifestyles.

Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin: Uptake and challenges in rural Coimbatore

ABSTRACT Introduction: Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH)-related infectious diseases contribute to approximately 5% of the global disease burden. Despite sanitation being a human right, 673 million people worldwide had limited access to toilets. To tackle the same, Swachh Bharat Mission-Gramin (SBM-G) was launched in 2014 to facilitate the construction of over 100 million individual household latrines (IHHLs) across India. However, literature evidence on acceptance of SBM-G in Tamil Nadu, particularly in Coimbatore, is scarce. Objectives: The primary objective was to investigate the utilisation of the SBM-G scheme and its associated factors in rural Coimbatore. Materials and Methods: In 2022, a mixed-methods study incorporating quantitative (using a purpose-designed questionnaire) and qualitative (using in-depth interviews and focus group discussions) components was conducted among 60 SBM-G beneficiaries in Kovai Medical Center and Hospital Institute of Health Sciences and Research (KMCH IHSR)’s rural field practice area. Quantitative data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) v23 and qualitative data using manual thematic content analysis. Results: Before IHHL construction, 93.7% of respondents practiced open-air defecation (OAD). The issues perceived with OAD were distance (28.8%) and privacy concerns (12.5%). After SBM-G implementation, 78.3% reported using the IHHL ‘all the time’, reflecting a substantial shift in behaviour. Most respondents received financial aid within about six months (INR 8,000), often in a single instalment. The majority had constructed their IHHLs before 2015. The expenditures incurred varied significantly, with 58.3% spending extra costs ranging between INR 10,000 and 30,000. Water supply to households significantly influenced IHHL usage. Conclusion: While rural villagers appreciate the SBM-G financial assistance for IHHLs, concerns about the inadequacy of the sanctioned amount for proper piped water supply and septic tanks persist. Nonetheless, there is a clear demonstration of positive behavioural change, marked by reduced OAD and increased IHHL usage.

Effect of training based on Orem's self-care deficit theory on breast cancer patients' management of chemotherapy-related side effects and self-care behaviors: A randomized controlled trial

PurposeTo examine the effects of training based on Orem's self-care deficit theory on breast cancer patient's physical, social, and psychological well-being and self-care behaviors during chemotherapy. MethodsThis randomized controlled trial was based on a pretest–posttest experimental design. The study sample consisted of 62 breast cancer patients (n = 31 for each of the intervention and control groups) receiving cyclophosphamide–epirubicin or cyclophosphamide–adriamycin treatment in the medical oncology department of a university hospital in Tekirdağ, Turkey. The breast cancer patients in the intervention group received training based on Orem's self-care deficit theory regarding physical, social, and psychological well-being and self-care behaviors during chemotherapy. The researcher conducted two face-to-face follow-ups (during the second and third chemotherapy cycles, 3 weeks apart) and a posttest assessment. Pretest and posttest symptom scores and self-care survey results were compared for both groups. ResultsThe Nightingale Symptom Assessment Scale (N-SAS) first follow-up, second follow-up, and posttest scores showed that the intervention group experienced fewer negative changes in quality of life than the control group based on the physical, social, and psychological subdimension and total scale scores (p < .05). The most positive changes in the intervention group's self-care behaviors were observed for items about caring for and protecting hair, using protective gloves when doing chores, monitoring weight, and limiting social meetings when blood values were low to protect against possible infection. ConclusionTraining based on Orem's self-care deficit theory positively influenced breast cancer patients' management of chemotherapy-related side effects and self-care behaviors. Chemotherapy-related side effects should be evaluated frequently. Moreover, patients' needs should be determined, and training should be tailored to their needs.

Teaching for a sustainable future case studies from the green schools project in bulgaria

This article examines the implementation and impact of green education activities in primary schools across Bulgaria, as part of the Green Schools Project, supported by Erasmus+ Programme. Through detailed case studies, the research highlights how seven primary teachers integrated environmental education into their classrooms, fostering ecological awareness and sustainable practices among their students. The activities ranged from recycling projects and nature observation walks to role-playing games that traced the journey of food from seed to consumption. The findings demonstrate significant improvements in students' knowledge of ecological principles, increased motivation and engagement in green topics, and positive behavioral changes towards environmental stewardship. This study underscores the importance of integrating green education into the primary curriculum, providing insights and recommendations for future educational policies and practices aimed at nurturing responsible and proactive environmental citizens.

E-Boogi Media as an Effort to Increase Knowledge of Dental Health in Junior High School Students

Background: Knowledge about oral health is closely related to children's behavior and skills to maintain good oral health. Effective health education and promotion can contribute to positive behavior change in maintaining oral health. One of the information media that can be used to facilitate the delivery of information to readers is E-Boogi. E-Boogi (electronic dental booklet) is digital, more durable, more environmentally friendly, and more concise. Objective: To analyze the knowledge of dental health before and after counseling using E-Boogi media for seventh grade students at Junior High School. Method: This research uses a quasi experimental research design. The instrument used in data collection was a questionnaire. The sample obtained was 79 people with purposive sampling technique. Results: From the results of this study obtained knowledge of dental health before counseling using E-Boogi media which included the highest category with good criteria as many as 57 people (72.2%), sufficient criteria as many as 19 people (24.0%), and low categories with less criteria as many as 3 people (3.8%). While after counseling using E-Boogi media, the results obtained with the highest category with good criteria were 70 people (88.6%), sufficient criteria were 9 people (11.4%), and the lowest category did not exist. The average knowledge of dental health of seventh grade students at Junior High School increased from 81.51 to 91.01 with a good category. Conclusion: It can be concluded that there is an increase in dental health knowledge with counseling using E-Boogi media in Junior High School

Influence Of Social Media On Gen-Z's Dermatological Practices: A Review

Introduction: Social media has become an important part of Generation Z (Gen-Z) lifestyle, serving as a platform for communication with peers, sharing content, and exploring various topics, including skincare and dermatological information. As the association between social media usage and skincare among Gen-Z garners increasing attention, this review seeks to examine studies investigating social media’s role in influencing Gen Z's dermatological behaviors, attitudes, and perceptions. Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in major databases to identify relevant studies published between 2014 and 2024. Keywords used include "social media" (including specific platforms), "Gen-Z," "skin care," “adolescent,” and "dermatology," as well as other related terms. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria to 73 studies, a total of 21 studies were included in this review. Results: Findings indicate that social media use can influence Gen-Z skincare practices, including the use of skincare products and desire for cosmetic procedures. Additionally, social media can impact self-esteem and body image, leading to unhealthy skincare practices. Conversely, social media can be a source of accessible information about skincare and positive behavior change. Social media is also effective in reducing stigmatization of dermatoses, fostering interpersonal connections among patients with dermatological conditions, and recruiting participants for research studies. However, social media often underrepresents adverse effects and preventive measures. Conclusion: Overall, this review highlights the need for greater awareness and education about the potential impacts of social media on Gen-Z skincare practices. Dermatologists can provide guidance and support to adolescents and young adults navigating social media to promote healthy skincare practices.

Abstract B043: Improving quality of life for Hispanic breast cancer survivors: A culturally tailored education intervention

Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of the Breast Cancer Education Intervention (BCEI) program in increasing knowledge and awareness of survivorship topics among survivor advocates and survivors, and to assess the impact of survivorship care plans on quality of life. Breast cancer survivorship care is crucial for improving the quality of life among survivors. Hispanic/Latino women face greater challenges and disparities in accessing survivorship care due to cultural, socioeconomic, and systemic barriers. The BCEI program, adapted from the National Cancer Institute’s model, aims to address these disparities through culturally tailored survivorship education and support. Methods: The BCEI program was piloted with a group of 8 Hispanic/Latino breast cancer survivors, in collaboration with Cancer Support Community Arizona (CSCAZ). This six-month program, created and delivered in Spanish, consisted of bi- monthly in-person sessions and phone check-ins. The educational sessions featured topics such as emotional and physical changes, lifestyle behaviors, nutrition, exercise, and psychological distress along with the introduction of a personalized survivorship care plan. These sessions provided a sense of community and emotional support with essential knowledge and understanding of the cancer journey, addressing gaps caused by language barriers in clinical settings, and the lack of Spanish language support groups. Survivor advocates underwent specialized training to effectively support the survivor participants. Data for the BCEI program was collected through pre and post survey evaluations, participant check-ins, and qualitative feedback. Survivors were paired with bilingual Patient Navigators, who connected them to resources in the community. Results: Preliminary results show a significant improvement in survivors’ knowledge and satisfaction with survivorship care. Participants demonstrated an increased awareness of the importance of survivorship care plans and showed positive changes in lifestyle behaviors. The results highlighted the program’s cultural tailoring and sense of community as key success factors. Conclusion: The Breast Cancer Education Intervention program demonstrates potential in addressing health disparities in breast cancer survivorship among Hispanic/Latino women. Building on this success, we are expanding the BCEI program to include a second iteration focused on Black and African American breast cancer survivors, who also face similar challenges and disparities. The program will be implemented in collaboration with the Coalition of Blacks Against Breast Cancer (CBBC). Citation Format: Idali Cuellar, Farhia M. Omar. Improving quality of life for Hispanic breast cancer survivors: A culturally tailored education intervention [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B043.

The more the better? Synergies of prosocial interventions and effects on behavioural spillovers

Incentivising prosocial and pro-environmental behaviours is a sensitive endeavour. While behavioural change is urgently needed to mitigate the consequences of climate change, monetary interventions often have negative side effects. Such interventions are prone to motivation crowding, which can impede lasting positive behavioural change and stimulate negative temporal spillovers to other prosocial behaviours. In this study, we investigate whether implementing monetary interventions as part of policy mixes can mitigate these negative side effects. In an online experiment involving 3782 participants, we test whether the use of nudges that make personal and social norms salient can counteract the motivation-crowding effect and explore the effects of such policy mixes on temporal spillovers. We find that policy mixes of norm-based nudges and monetary incentives are more effective at stimulating engagement in targeted prosocial behaviour than no intervention when controlling for sample characteristics. Analysing the temporal spillover effects of these interventions reveals that policy mixes can alleviate the tendency of monetary incentives to negatively affect subsequent prosocial behaviour. This indicates that norm-based nudges are suitable complements to monetary interventions, facilitating long-lasting positive effects.

The Nexus between Environmental Factors and Behaviour Change in the Upper East Region of Ghana: The Mediating Role of Marketing Strategies

This study aimed to explore the mediating role of marketing strategies in the relationship between environmental factors and behavior change in healthcare utilisation. A cross-sectional survey design was conducted using a random sampling technique to select 474 healthcare workers from six Health Directorates across Municipalities and Districts in the Upper East Region of Ghana. The target population from which the sample size was determined was 1980. The theories that guided this study were the Health Belief Model and the Theory of Planned Planned Behaviour. A structured questionnaire was designed using a five-point Likert scale and administered to the respondents. The data was collected over three months from February to April. A Structural Equation Model (SEM) with AMOS was employed to analyse the data. Findings revealed that marketing strategies mediate the relationship between environmental factors and behaviour change. The predicted hypotheses were found to be positive and significant. The study highlights the importance of marketing strategies in disseminating health-related information, which influences positive behaviour change toward healthcare utilisation. The study found that marketing strategies play a crucial role in disseminating health information and promoting behaviour change. The mediating role of marketing strategies in the relationship between environmental factors and behaviour change was established. All hypotheses were confirmed, demonstrating the key role of marketing strategies in improving health outcomes through behaviour modification. It is recommended that healthcare facility managers consider incorporating marketing strategies into their strategic plans to optimise outcomes.

SP3.7 - Patient experiences of using wearable health monitors during cancer treatment: A qualitative study

Abstract Introduction Wearable health monitors (WHM) are being used in healthcare with increasing popularity, and offer a minimally invasive, ambulatory method of 24-hour monitoring. The aim of this study explores the patient experience of using WHMs during cancer treatment, including barriers and enablers of WHM use. Methods A phenomenological qualitative approach was used with single semi-structured interviews conducted in the form of focus groups with individuals enrolled in the EMBRaCE-GM study where WHMs are worn in the perioperative period of at least 6 months during treatment of either colorectal cancer, lung cancer, leukaemia/lymphoma or head &amp; neck cancer. Results We identified 3 major themes of perceived patient benefit, treatment partnerships between patients and healthcare professions and barriers to the adoption. WHMs promoted positive behaviour change, prioritisation of own health and represented a form of “digital advocacy”. Potential barriers were aesthetic, experiential and technological. WHM introduction was time-sensitive, with patients finding their use acceptable at differing stages in their cancer pathway. Patients desired reciprocal interaction with WHMs and were less concerned with data accuracy. Discussion Our study identifies factors influencing a patient’s decision to use WHMs and their importance as a patient-centric interactive component of management. Novel findings include the optimal time to start wearing WHMs and that validity of measurements appears less of a concern for patients (in contrast to clinicians) who use wearable data and trends with their own experiences as part of a sense making exercise. Future work should focus on balancing patient and clinician expectations to provide guidance on the feasibility of WHM use in routine clinical practice.

Training Program of Communication Skills of Endocrinologists in the Treatment of Osteoporosis in Age-Related Patients

The study examines how the developed training program improves the communication skills of endocrinologists in the treatment of osteoporosis in age-related patients, which improves the quality of communication between the doctor and the patient, helping to overcome ambivalence to positive changes in behavior and better adhere to a prevention or treatment plan.

Examining Perceptions and Attitudes of Prison Visitation on Behavior Change and Recidivism in Nairobi County, Kenya

This study investigates the impact of prison visitation on perceptions, attitudes, behavior change, and recidivism rates among incarcerated individuals. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data was gathered through surveys, interviews, and official records from a sample of incarcerated individuals and their visitors. The analysis focused on understanding the role of visitation in shaping attitudes towards rehabilitation and family support and its influence on post-release behavior. Findings reveal a significant correlation between the frequency and quality of visitation and positive behavioral changes among inmates. Inmates who received regular visits reported higher levels of motivation for rehabilitation, improved mental health, and increased feelings of connection with their families and communities. Moreover, visitation played a pivotal role in strengthening family bonds and social support networks, which are crucial factors in successful reintegration post-release. Furthermore, the study explored the perceptions and experiences of both inmates and visitors regarding the visitation process, including logistical challenges, emotional dynamics, and barriers to maintaining contact. Understanding these perspectives is essential for enhancing visitation programs and addressing systemic issues that hinder family engagement in the correctional system. The study also examined recidivism rates among participants and found a notable decrease among those who received frequent and meaningful visitation compared to those who did not. These findings underscore the significance of visitation programs in reducing recidivism and promoting successful reentry into society. In conclusion, this research highlights the importance of fostering supportive relationships through visitation programs to facilitate positive behavior change and reduce recidivism rates among incarcerated individuals. Implementing policies that prioritize and improve access to visitation can contribute to more effective rehabilitation efforts and ultimately lead to safer communities.

The Effectiveness of Social Media Advertising for Businesses

Public announcements, focus groups, and online resources are only the tip of the iceberg whenit comes to social marketing. The goal is to encourage people to make positive behavioral changes thatwill improve their health and well-being. Making the world a better place to live through effectingconstructive social change, For over 25 years, researchers have employed social marketing to tackle awide range of global societal concerns, such as population control, environmental protection, healtheducation, smoking cessation, and civic engagement. Young people are the driving force behind socialchange, and social media is playing a crucial part in getting the word out about social marketing

Exploring the Role of Sunnah Fasting in Shaping Muslim Behaviour and Spirituality: Perceptions, Beliefs and Social Dynamics

This research aims to understand Muslims' perceptions and beliefs regarding sunnah fasting, with the research problem focusing on how sunnah fasts, such as the fasts of Arafat and Ashura, are understood and practised by Muslims to expiate minor sins and improve their spiritual quality. The research method used is a desk-top research, in which the researchers’ collected and analysed relevant data, including the Qur'an, hadith, tafsir, scholarly articles, and other literature on sunnah fasting in Islam. The results showed that sunnah fasting has a vital role in the spiritual life of Muslims, with many benefits, including positive behavioural changes, improved discipline, and increased faith and piety. Sunnah fasting is believed to erase minor sins, thus encouraging Muslims to be more diligent in practising it. Social and environmental dynamics, such as family support, community, and lectures at mosques, play an essential role in influencing Muslims' perceptions and participation in sunnah fasting. Although there are differing interpretations among scholars regarding the ability of sunnah fasting to erase major sins, consensus suggests that sunnah fasting provides many spiritual and moral benefits. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of sunnah fasting and its role in shaping Muslim behaviour and spirituality.

A study on awareness of household waste management in a rural area of northern Kerala

Background: Proper waste management is a major concern of public health. It is necessary to create positive behavioural changes towards waste management among public in order to control diseases. Objective was to assess the awareness of waste management among the households of Cheruthazham Panchayat in northern Kerala. Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted in Cheruthazham Panchayat, under Kalliasseri block, located in Kannur district of Kerala state from June 2017 to July 2018. A total of 400 households were studied. Multistage sampling was done. Data was collected by direct interview using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS software. Results: The participants responsible for the waste management in household were women. Out of the 400 participants, 83%, 11% and 6% were Hindus, Muslims and Christians respectively. Majority of them (82%) had an educational qualification of high school and above. Most of them (82.5%) were housewives. About 47% of the study population belongs to upper middle class. Their major sources of information about solid waste management were Kudumbasree class, gramasabha meetings and media. In the study, 19.2% had good knowledge, 79.2% had average knowledge and 1.5% had poor knowledge on waste management. Conclusions: Majority of the participants had above average attitude towards household waste management. Continuous awareness programmes have to be conducted on safe waste disposal and efforts should be made to sustain the supervision of household waste management.

Examining The Dual Impact of Comprehensive Psychological Intervention and Ideological and Political Education on College Students' Health Behaviour

Background: College students face unique challenges including lifestyle transitions and increased academic demands, highlighting the need for interventions that address both behavioral and psychological health. Recent insights into ideological education and mental health suggest they significantly influence students' health-related choices. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an Integrated Physical Education (IPE) curriculum coupled with a psychosocial intervention on the health-related behaviors of college students. Methods: We employed a pre-test/post-test design to assess changes in self-reported health behaviors, physical activity levels, stress management, and sleep quality following the intervention. Results: The intervention led to noticeable improvements across several areas. Participants experienced reduced stress levels and enhanced sleep quality, attributed to the intervention's focus on relaxation techniques, potentially improving overall energy levels. Additionally, there was a positive shift in physical activity patterns, with an increase in moderate-intensity exercises and a decrease in lower-intensity activities. However, the study also identified barriers to sustaining these healthy behaviors, such as time constraints and elevated stress during examinations, which hindered consistent participation in fitness regimes and healthy eating. Lack of social support also emerged as a challenge in maintaining these lifestyle changes. Conclusions: The findings suggest that integrating comprehensive psychological therapies with political and ideological education can effectively promote positive changes in health-related behaviors among college students. The study recommends incorporating practical advice on integrating healthy routines into daily schedules to address time management challenges, thereby enhancing the sustainability of health-promoting behaviors. Recommendations: Future interventions should focus on strategies for overcoming time barriers and enhancing social support to facilitate long-term adherence to healthy behaviors among college students.

Interwoven Lives: The Impact of Social Support and Behavioral Changes on Health Behaviors among the Chinese Residents

Objectives: It is found that there is a growing level of mortality among people with diabetic diseases. However, factors like social support and positive behavior change tend to play a substantial role in dealing with such mental worries. Methods: Based upon the given thoughts, this research examines the impact of social support and behavioral changes on health behavior in the form of diabetic health worries. For this purpose, the study will collect the sample using the survey questionnaire technique. A sample of 357 respondents has empirically been analyzed by applying advanced statistical techniques, such as testing for the reliability and validity of the latent constructs and relative items, discriminant validity, and structural equation modeling techniques. Results: The study findings confirm that the latent constructs are significantly represented by the latent items of social support, behavioral changes, and health behaviors, respectively. Moreover, the findings through structural equation modeling reveal a significant and productive impact of social support and behavioral changes in improving the health behaviors like low mental worries of and diabetes. Conclusion: The study provides some meaningful policy implications in determining how the role of social support and behavioral changes would be reflected in the form of low diabetic health worries. Besides, a few limitations have also been expressed.

Multilevel Interventions Targeting Obesity: State of the Science and Future Directions.

A seminal report, released in 2001 by the Institute of Medicine, spurred research on the design, implementation, and evaluation of multilevel interventions targeting obesity and related behaviors. By addressing social and environmental factors that support positive health behavior change, interventions that include multiple levels of influence (e.g., individual, social, structural) aim to bolster effectiveness and, ultimately, public health impact. With more than 20 years of multilevel obesity intervention research to draw from, this review was informed by published reviews (n = 51) and identified intervention trials (n = 103), inclusive of all ages and countries, to elucidate key learnings about the state of the science. This review provides a critical appraisal of the scientific literature related to multilevel obesity interventions and includes a description of their effectiveness on adiposity outcomes and prominent characteristics (e.g., population, setting, levels). Key objectives for future research are recommended to advance innovations to improve population health and reduce obesity.

Important aspects of experiences from patients and parents related to medications in Child and Adolescents Mental Health Services (CAMHS) - a qualitative study

PurposePatient-reported experiences are a key source of information on quality in mental health care. Most patient experience surveys are limited to assessments from adults, including those conducted by parents or proxies on behalf of others. The aim of this study was to produce findings to inform development of modules on patient and parent experiences with medication in outpatient CAMHS in Norway, for use in previously validated instruments applied in national surveys.Patients and methodsWe developed survey questions based on a systematic literature review, expert-group consultations, interviews with adolescents and parents, and pretesting of the modules in a pilot study. This study included adolescents aged 12–17 years and parents with experiences from outpatient CAMHS and we present findings from semi-structured interviews.ResultsAdolescents with ADHD emphasized the following aspects as important concerning medication use in CAMHS: positive effects of medication like better function and concentration in school and change of behaviour. They also stressed the importance of side effects such as eating problems, nausea, loss of appetite, insomnia, and changes in thoughts and feelings. In addition, adolescents highlighted the significance of aspects as support in daily routines for taking medications, while parents highlighted needs for a professional follow-up care. Parents emphasized aspects regarding their children’s medication included both positive effects and change in behaviour, as well as their identification of negative side effects.ConclusionOur findings from semi-structured interviews identified important aspects reported by both patients and parents on functions, side effects and follow-up care related to medication. The results indicated that both groups emphasized corresponding aspects of what was important regarding medication. However, when it came to follow-up care, the two groups highlighted distinct aspects, indicating differing priorities or concerns in this area.