Prevalence Of Willingness Research Articles

Norm Setting in Times of Crisis: A Time-Series Analysis of the Dynamics Between Media Reporting and Perceived Norms in the Context of the COVID-19 Vaccination Roll-Out

ABSTRACT Social norms have great potential for mitigating crisis as people align their prevention behavior with the norms they perceive. However, there is insufficient knowledge of how normative perceptions are formed to exploit this potential. Drawing from agenda-setting theory, the present study examined norm-setting processes of media reporting on perceptions of vaccination norms during the COVID-19 pandemic. It combined data of a continuous content analysis of the salience and valence of the vaccination issue and a weekly repeated cross-sectional survey on perceived descriptive (i.e. perceived prevalence of willingness to get vaccinated) and injunctive vaccination norms (i.e. perceived approval of getting vaccinated) in the Swiss population, from February 2021 to February 2022. Time-series-based regression modeling did not support the hypothesized first-level norm setting—the transfer from issue salience in media to perceived descriptive norms in the population. However, we found evidence for second-level norm setting: Changes in issue valence predicted changes in perceived injunctive norms in the Swiss population. The findings provide unique insights into norm-setting processes and highlight the relevance of monitoring media reporting and public perceptions as a basis for evidence-based crisis communication.

Willingness toward voluntary counseling and testing and associated factors among tuberculosis infected patients at public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Voluntary counseling and testing for HIV has proven to be a highly effective and cost-efficient approach in many locations, yielding excellent results. It serves as a gateway to a range of HIV-related services, including the provision of antiretroviral drugs. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the willingness toward VCT and associated factors among TB infected patients at Public Hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; 2023. A facility-based cross-sectional study was undertaken at public hospitals in Addis Ababa from 1st to 30th of March 2023 with 235 participants using systematic random sampling. Trained data collectors employed a pretested data extraction tool for information gathering. Variables with p-value less than 0.05 in the multivariable logistic regression were considered statistically significant. The prevalence of willingness toward VCT among TB infected patients was (78.3, 95%CI: 72.8, 83.4). Individuals with a primary education level (AOR: 6.32; 95%CI: 1.65, 24.25), government employees (AOR: 5.85; 95%CI: 1.78, 19.22) and private employees (AOR: 3.35; 95%CI: 1.12, 10.01), good knowledge of VCT (AOR: 3.12; 95%CI: 1.36, 7.16), perceived a higher risk (AOR: 6.58; 95%CI: 2.44, 17.73) and perceived stigma (AOR: 14.95; 95%CI: 4.98, 44.91) were factors associated with willingness toward VCT. The proportion of Tuberculosis infected patients expressing willingness toward Voluntary Counseling and Testing in this study was higher than in previous studies, it falls below the UNAIDS target of 90% of people knowing their HIV status. Notably, factors such as level of education, occupation, knowledge, perceived risk, and perceived stigma emerged as independent factors significantly associated with the willingness of TB-infected patients to undergo VCT. These findings underscore the importance of considering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge levels, and psychosocial factors in designing strategies to enhance VCT acceptance among TB-infected individuals.

Willingness to join community-based health insurance and its associated factors among households in Nekemte City, Ethiopia. A community-based cross-sectional study

IntroductionEthiopia has been implementing community-based health insurance programs since 2011 to improve health care financing system. However, the prevalence of household willingness to join the community-based health insurance (CBHI) program and its associated factors are less explored in urban area. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence of willingness to join community-based health insurance program and its associated factors among households in Nekemte City, Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 422 randomly selected households in Nekemte City, Ethiopia. Bivariate and multivariable analyses were performed to see the association between the independent and outcome variables using binary logistic regression model. Association was described using an adjusted odd ratio (AOR) and a 95% confidence interval (CI). Finally, p-value < 0.05 was considered the cut-off point for declaring a significant.ResultsAmong 422 study participants, 320 (75.83%) [95% CI = 71.5-79.8%)] of the households were willing to join community-based health insurance program. The willingness to join for community-based health insurance was 3.11 times more likely among households who were in the richest quintile (AOR = 3.11; 95% CI = 1.08–8.93), 3.4 times more likely among those who were merchants (AOR = 3.40;1.33, 8.69), 2.52 times more likely among those who had history of chronic illness in the household (AOR = 2.52; 95% CI = 1.43–4.45), 4.09 times more likely among those who had the awareness about the scheme (AOR = 4.09; 95% CI = 1.97–8.47) and 3.29 times more likely among those who had the experience of borrow for medical care (AOR = 3.29; 95% CI = 1.48–7.30).ConclusionNearly three fourth of the households were willing to join community-based health insurance program, however, about one fourth of households were not willing, which is a significant public health problem. Being merchant, having awareness about the scheme, being in the richest wealth quintile, having experience of borrowing for medical care, and having history of chronic illness in the household were factors found to be significantly associated with willingness to join community based health insurance in the study area. Therefore, strengthening awareness creation at community level about the benefit package and principle of the program would increase their demand for the community-based health insurance scheme.

HIV Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Uptake Among High-Risk Population in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Globally, 38.4 million people are affected by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) pandemic, and more than 2.5 million new HIV infections occur yearly. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been widely recognized as a potential way to prevent new infections among risk population. There is a paucity of abridged evidence on the level and barriers to PrEP service uptake in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Therefore, we conducted a systematic review to synthesize existing evidence on PrEP uptake in SSA. Relevant studies were searched from major databases (PubMed and PsychInfo) and direct Google Scholar. Data were extracted and recorded using a pilot-tested template. Methodological rigor, heterogeneity and publication bias of studies were assessed to minimize the inclusion of erroneous findings. A random effect model was used for the meta-analysis followed by narrative metasynthesis. The protocol of this systematic review has been by registered PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022308855). A total of 1830 studies were retrieved, and 30 studies met inclusion criteria of the systematic review. People who heard about PrEP ranged from 23% to 98%. The pooled prevalence of willingness to use PrEP was 64.2% (95% confidence interval: 55.5-72.0). Fear of side effect, stigma, nonreceptive attitude, cost of pills, low awareness about PrEP, perceived reason about the effectiveness of PrEP, and lack of friendly services were the common barriers to PrEP uptake in Africa. In conclusion, comprehensive knowledge and willingness to use PrEP were low in SSA. The barriers to low PrEP service uptake are avoidable through comprehensive awareness creation and availing essential services to key population in Africa. Expanding educational messages to key population using friendly approaches and more accessible platforms, engaging stakeholders, and integrating PrEP service with routine health care are important to foster HIV prevention and control in the future.

Willingness and Perception About COVID-19 Vaccine Among Rural Adults

Introduction: The most successful and cost-effective method of preventing the spread of COVID-19 infection is vaccination. But there are challenges to vaccinating the mass population in a developing country like Bangladesh. This survey aimed to assess the willingness to receive and perception of COVID-19 vaccines and the association of this willingness with the baseline characteristics and the level of perception of the respondents. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 672 rural people from six villages of Palashbari Upazilla, Gaibabdha district. A convenient sampling technique was used and data were collected by face-to-face interview. Result: Almost two third of the respondents of this study were _30 years old and the average age of respondents was 37.43±17.13 years. Majorities of the respondents were female (54.6%). About 89.1% of the respondents in this study were willing to be vaccinated and the main reason for this willingness includes respondents’ belief about the vaccine protection against COVID-19 (91.8%) reduced the fear of the respondents (60.6%), government suggestion (45.1%). The main reasons behind unwillingness included fear of side effects (71.8%), doubt about vaccine safety and efficacy (46.5%), and ignorance (59.2%). Regarding perception about the COVID-19 vaccine, more than half of the respondents (51.2%) had good perception whereas 29.8% had average perception and 19.0% of respondents had poor perception. In this study, females were significantly more willing to be vaccinated than male respondents (p=0.027). Respondents age group &lt;30 years were significantly more willing to vaccinate than that of the age group _30 years (p=0.042). Respondents not having chronic diseases group significantly more inclined to vaccinate than that having chronic diseases (p&lt;0.001). A good level of perception was more likely to have willingness than average or poor perception (p&lt;0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study reveal that despite the high prevalence of willingness to receive vaccines, still there were the challenges. Policymakers should design effective immunization policies and experts in media and communication should deliver the proper message that is understandable to everyone, especially illiterate rural people. J Rang Med Col. September 2023; Vol. 8, No. 2: 34-39

Willingness to Quit and Associated Factors Among Tobacco Users Attending Outpatient Departments of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Delhi, India.

Tobacco use has become a modern-day epidemic which significantly impacts health, socioeconomic status, and environmental sustainability. The readiness to quit or stop using tobacco is a crucial first step in changing one's behavior. Hence, the current study sought to assess the prevalence of willingness to quit and associated factors among tobacco users. This study was conducted on 425 tobacco users selected using multi-stage random sampling from the outpatient departments (OPDs) of a tertiary care hospital in Delhi, India. A pre-designed, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to elicit information. Logistic regression was performed to assess the effect of independent factors on the willingness to quit. The mean age of the study participants was 39.37 years (S.D.=±12.99). The majority of the participants were male (400, 94.1%), and 25 (6.9%) were female. Overall, the prevalence of willingness to quit in the current study was 70% among the study participants. The results of the multivariable analysis showed that those belonging to urban areas, tobacco users with a duration of≤10 years, and those who received advice from a doctor to quit had a significantly higher willingness to quit than their counterparts. However, age, gender, marital status, education, religion, age of initiation of tobacco use, and nicotine dependence were not found to have a statistically significant relationship with the willingness to quit tobacco products. Willingness to quit was high among the study participants. The data in this study suggested that belonging to urban areas, duration of tobacco use, and doctor's advice to quit are important factors which need to be considered when framing future tobacco cessation programs.

Desires for Individual- and Interpersonal-Level Patient Portal Use for HIV Prevention Among Urban Sexual Minority Men: Cross-sectional Study.

Gay, bisexual, and other sexual minority men have expressed the acceptability of patient portals as tools for supporting HIV prevention behaviors, including facilitating disclosure of HIV and other sexually transmitted infection (STI/HIV) laboratory test results to sex partners. However, these studies, in which Black or African American sexual minority men were undersampled, failed to determine the relationship of reported history of discussing HIV results with sex partners and anticipated willingness to disclose web-based STI/HIV test results using a patient portal. Among a sample of predominantly Black sexual minority men, this study aimed to (1) determine preferences for patient portal use for HIV prevention and (2) test the associations between reported history of discussing HIV results and anticipated willingness to disclose web-based STI/HIV test results with most recent main and nonmain partners using patient portals. Data come from audio-computer self-assisted interview survey data collected during the 3-month visit of a longitudinal cohort study. Univariate analysis assessed patient portal preferences by measuring the valuation rankings of several portal features. Multiple Poisson regression models with robust error variance determined the associations between history of discussing HIV results and willingness to disclose those results using web-based portals by partner type, and to examine criterion validity of the enhancing dyadic communication (EDC) scale to anticipated willingness. Of the 245 participants, 71% (n=174) were Black and 22% (n=53) were White. Most participants indicated a willingness to share web-based STI/HIV test results with their most recent main partner. Slightly fewer, nonetheless a majority, indicated a willingness to share web-based test results with their most recent nonmain partner. All but 2 patient portal features were valued as high or moderately high priority by >80% of participants. Specifically, tools to help manage HIV (n=183, 75%) and information about pre- and postexposure prophylaxis (both 71%, n=173 and n=175, respectively) were the top-valuated features to include in patient portals for HIV prevention. Discussing HIV test results was significantly associated with increased prevalence of willingness to disclose web-based test results with main (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 1.46, 95% CI 1.21-1.75) and nonmain partners (aPR 1.54, 95% CI 1.23-1.93). Our findings indicate what features Black sexual minority men envision may be included in the patient portal's design to optimize HIV prevention, further supporting the criterion validity of the EDC scale. Efforts should be made to support Black sexual minority men's willingness to disclose STI/HIV testing history and status with partners overall as it is associated significantly with a willingness to disclose testing results digitally via patient portals. Future studies should consider discussion behaviors regarding past HIV test results with partners when tailoring interventions that leverage patient portals in disclosure events.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of caregiver acceptance of malaria vaccine for under-five children in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Malaria is the second leading cause of death in children after diarrheal disease, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) accounting for over 9 in 10 incidence and deaths. Widespread acceptance and uptake of the RTS,S vaccine, recently approved by the world health organization (WHO), is projected to significantly reduce malaria incidence and deaths. Therefore, we conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis with the aim to determine the malaria vaccine acceptance rate and the factors associated with acceptance. We searched six databases including Google Scholar, PubMed, Cochrane, African Index Medicus, The Regional Office for Africa Library, and WHO Institutional Repository for Information Sharing (IRIS) to identify studies evaluating the malaria vaccine acceptance rate. This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if they were original articles published in the English language in peer-reviewed journals and assessed the prevalence of willingness to accept a free malaria vaccine, and not qualitative. The risk of publication bias was checked using both Beggar's funnel plot and Egger's test, while the I2 statistic was used to assess the heterogeneity of the included studies. Study quality was determined using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to evaluate the pooled prevalence of malaria vaccine acceptance. The protocol for this article was registered prospectively on the International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), with ID number CRD42022334282). Our analysis included 11 studies with a total sample size of 14, 666 participants. The aggregate malaria vaccine acceptance rate was 95.3% (95% CI:93.0%-97.2%). Among the general population, the acceptance rate was 96.3% (95% CI:92.0%-99.0%) and among mothers, it was 94.4% (95% CI:90.8%-97.2%). By country, Nigeria had the highest acceptance rate (97.6%, 95% CI:96.0%-98.8%), followed by Ghana (94.6%, 95% CI:93.8%-95.3%) and Tanzania (92.5%, 95% CI:84.4%-97.8%). Sociodemographic determinants of vaccine acceptance included place of residence, tribe, age, sex, occupation, and religion. Reasons for low acceptance included safety concerns, efficacy profile, vaccine's requirement for multiple injections, and poor level of awareness. Future efforts should be focused on identifying factors that may improve the actual uptake of the RTS,S vaccine in malaria-endemic communities.

Migration Intent of Health Care Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Kosovo.

The migration of healthcare workers from developing countries to more economically developed countries is a long-standing and ongoing trend. Loss of qualified staff due to migration can negatively impact healthcare systems. Understanding factors that drive migration is essential to identifying and managing health system needs. Our study explored factors related to the migration intent of healthcare staff in Kosovo, particularly after the COVID-19 pandemic. We carried out a cross-sectional survey of healthcare workers from public and private institutions. The survey analysed the prevalence of willingness to migrate and whether willingness was affected by the pandemic, and calculated crude and adjusted odds ratios for variables which may influence migration willingness. 14.43% of healthcare workers reported aspiration to migrate, and 23.68% reported an increased chance of migrating after the pandemic. Dissatisfaction with wages and working conditions, higher education and private sector engagement were associated with increased odds of migration willingness. After the pandemic, factors related to interpersonal relationships and state response gave lower odds of migration intent. These findings point to potential factors associated with the migration of healthcare workers, which can help policymakers address gaps in national health system strategy.

Factors associated with willingness to receive a novel community care service for older people in Foshan, China: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundIn China, the majority of community care for older people is planned and offered in a few large cities. The provision of community care to the rural population is a new concept. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of willingness to receive a novel community care service that incorporates community rehabilitation among older people, and identify the possible factors influencing utilization willingness in Foshan, China.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted involving 413 older people in Lishui county, China from January to March 2021. Trained staff interviewed older people using structured questionnaires. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine factors that were significantly associated with the willingness to receive this novel community care.ResultsThe prevalence of willingness to receive community care for older people was 61.9% (n = 245) in Foshan, China. Older people who were living alone or living with spouses were about two times significantly more likely to receive community care compared to those living with children/others (OR = 2.19, 95%CI:2.44 ~ 3.19, OR = 2.015, 95%CI: 1.39 ~ 2.23, respectively). Older people who lived closer to the community care center were about two times significantly more likely to receive community care compared to those who lived far away (OR = 2.10, 95%CI: 1.61 ~ 2.41). Older people with activity of daily living disability were about three times significantly more likely to receive community care compared to those without a disability (OR = 3.13, 95%CI: 2.38 ~ 3.29).ConclusionsA majority of rural older people were willing to receive this novel community care service that includes community rehabilitation. The findings suggest the need for policies and programs to not only improve the provision of this novel community care service but also promote its uptake among older people in the study setting.

COVID-19 vaccines and patients with multiple sclerosis: willingness, unwillingness and hesitancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to determine the pooled prevalence of vaccination willingness, unwillingness, and hesitancy among patients with multiple sclerosis.MethodsDatabases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were searched. by two expert researchers, as well as references in the included studies, which were published before October 2021.ResultsThree hundred eighty articles were found in four data bases. One hundred eighty-two studies remained following deleting duplicates. Finally, ten studies remained for the meta-analysis. Totally, 5983 patients with MS were assessed. The pooled prevalence of willingness to vaccination among patients with MS was 76% (95% CI: 67–85%) (I2 = 98.4%, p < 0.001). Unwillingness pooled prevalence to vaccination among patients with MS was 2% (95% CI: 2–3%) (I2 = 97.9%, p < 0.001). Hesitancy pooled prevalence to vaccination among patients with MS was 0% (I2 = 98%, p < 0.001).ConclusionAccording to the findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis, more than two-thirds of patients with MS were willing to obtain COVID-19 vaccines.

Postpartum women\u2019s views on human milk banking in a city in Southeast China: a cross-sectional survey

BackgroundDonor human milk is the best alternative for preterm infants when their mother’s own milk is insufficient or unavailable. The development of human milk banks in China started late, and in most of these banks, the amount of donor human milk is insufficient for clinical demand. Moreover, many mothers are reluctant to use donor human milk due to safety concerns. It is important to understand the potential supply and demand of donor human milk before establishing a new human milk bank. This study aimed to understand women’s acceptance of human milk banking in Wenzhou, southeastern China.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted in three community health centers in Wenzhou, southeast China, in December 2020. Data were collected from 305 postpartum women selected through convenience sampling. Sociodemographic, perinatal and breastfeeding characteristics, awareness and knowledge of human milk banking and willingness to donate human milk, and to accept donor human milk were assessed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to explore independent predictors of willingness to donate human milk and to accept donor human milk.ResultsOnly 17% (52/305) of our participants had heard of human milk banking prior to this survey. The prevalence of willingness to donate human milk and use donor human milk in our study was 73.4% (224/305) and 44.6% (136/305), respectively. Employment (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.17, 4.50) and human milk banking knowledge (AOR 1.23; 95% CI 1.12, 1.35) were independent predictors of willingness to donate human milk. Monthly household income in the previous year (AOR 2.18; 95% CI 1.17, 4.06), awareness of human milk banking (AOR 2.41; 95% CI 1.24, 4.67) and knowledge of human milk banking (AOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.11, 1.35) were significantly associated with willingness to accept donor human milk.ConclusionsIn our study, awareness of human milk banks among women in the first year postpartum was low. More mothers were willing to donate human milk than to use donor human milk to feed their children. In our study, knowledge of human milk banking was a predictor of both willingness to donate human milk and willingness to use donor human milk. Programs with detailed information on human milk banking are needed to help mothers improve their knowledge and increase acceptance of human milk banking.

Willingness to pay for community-based health insurance and associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

In Ethiopia, there is low enrollment and a wide discrepancy in willingness to pay for community-based health insurance schemes, and there is a lack of nationally representative data on willingness to pay for community-based health insurance. Thus, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of willingness to pay for community-based health insurance and associated factors in Ethiopia. This was developed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Databases such as PubMed/Medline, CINAHL, African Journals Online, and Google Scholar searches were performed to retrieve available published and unpublished studies from December 15 to May 17, 2022. Two independent reviewers screened the retrieved articles. Critical quality appraisal was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument. To investigate the sources of heterogeneity, subgroup analysis and meta-regression were performed based on region, study setting (rural/urban), and sample size. RevMan software and STATA 14 software were used for the statistical analysis. A random-effect model was used to estimate the effect size at a 95% confidence interval. A total of 190 studies were retrieved, and six studies were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of willingness to pay for community-based health insurance was 78 (95% confidence interval: 74, 81). A subgroup analysis by region indicated the lowest proportion of willingness to pay community-based health insurance in the Oromia region, 76% (95% confidence interval: 68, 84), and the highest in the Amhara region, 79% (95% confidence interval: 77, 81). Nearly three in four households were willing to pay for community-based health insurance in Ethiopia. Thus, awareness of willingness to pay community-based health insurance is mandatory to improve the implementation of community-based health insurance.

Willingness to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine and Its Determinant Factors Among Lactating Mothers in Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BackgroundThe World Health Organization, the United States Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, the Food and Drugs Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control recommend COVID-19 vaccination to lactating mothers without discontinuity of breastfeeding. Despite this recommendation, willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine and its determinant factors among lactating mothers were not studied in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed to assess willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine and its determinant factors among lactating mothers in Ethiopia.MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study design was employed in southern Ethiopia from February 1 up to March 15, 2021. Multistage sampling technique was used to select study participants. Structured and face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were clean, coded, and entered into Epi-Data version 4.2.0 and exported to SPSS version 23 software package for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable analysis were used to identify associated factors. Adjusted odds ratio along with 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association.ResultsThe prevalence of willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccination was found to be 61% (95% CI; 56.9–65.1%). Urban residence [AOR=2.5, (95% CI; 1.62–3.91)], having secondary and above maternal educational status [AOR=2.8, (95% CI; 1.51–4.21)] mothers who had got immunization counselling [AOR=3.4, (95% CI; 1.95–5.91)], good knowledge about vaccine [AOR=2.6, (95% CI; 1.84–3.47)], and good adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures [AOR=3.2, (95% CI; 1.91–5.63)] were determinant factors of willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine.ConclusionUrban residence, secondary and above maternal education status, immunization counselling, good knowledge about the vaccine, and good adherence to COVID-19 mitigation measures were determinant factors of willingness to receive COVID-19 vaccine. Therefore, health professionals should counsel about the merits of COVID-19 vaccination, and enhance maternal awareness about the vaccine is recommended.

Community risk perception and health-seeking behavior in the era of COVID-19 among adult residents of Harari regional state, eastern Ethiopia.

Background:COVID-19 brought significant challenges to public health. It changed the view of global health and safety, trust in the healthcare system, and clients’ willingness to seek healthcare. To contain the course of the COVID-19 pandemic and its detrimental effects, understanding peoples’ health behavior, especially healthcare-seeking, and determining the community risk perception is very important. Thus, this study aimed to determine the health-seeking behavior, community’s risk perception to COVID-19 pandemics, and factors influencing the community risk perception in Harari regional state, Ethiopia.Methods:Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 5 to 30 February 2021. A total of 1320 adult (>18 years) participants were selected using systematic random sampling. The data were collected using an online kobo collect toolbox and analyzed using descriptive statistical tests. Chi-square test and multiple binary logistic regression were applied to examine the difference between variables. A p-value < 0.05 was considered to be of statistical significance.Results:The study included 1296 respondents >18 years old. The overall prevalence of willingness to seek healthcare in the study area was 35.6% (95% CI: 33%–38.3.0%). The mean cumulative score of risk perception was 30.5 (SD ± 7.25) with the minimum and maximum score of 13 and 63, respectively. A total of 656 (50.6%) of the participants had low-risk perceptions concerning COVID-19. The study found a statistically significant association between risk perception and sociodemographic characteristics (age, educational status, and income), and knowledge of the respondents.Conclusion:The overall prevalence of willingness to seek healthcare was 35.6%. Healthcare intervention aimed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic should consider the factors associated with the study area. Similarly, the study found a low-risk perception among the community that needs critical action to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and to protect the community as a whole. Thus, it is necessary to improve community risk perception through health education.

Assessment of willingness to Tele-monitoring interventions in patients with type 2 diabetes and/or hypertension in the public primary healthcare setting

BackgroundTele-monitoring (TM) is remote monitoring of individuals via info-communication technology, enabling them and their relatives or care-providers to recognize their health status conveniently. TM will be successful only if the individuals, often patients with medical conditions, are willing to accept and adopt it in their daily lives. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of willingness of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and/or hypertension towards the use of TM, and the factors influencing their uptake.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted at two public primary care clinics (polyclinics) in north-eastern Singapore, where TM had not been implemented. After the patients with T2DM and/or hypertension consented after fulfilling the eligibility criteria, they were first introduced to the concept of TM using pictogram and explanation by the investigators. Data on their demography, clinical parameters, technological literacy and acceptance of TM based on the Health Information Technology Acceptance Model (HITAM) were subsequently collected, computed, analyzed, followed by regression analyses to identify the factors associated with their willingness to use TM.ResultsAmong 1125 eligible multi-ethnic Asian patients approached, 899 of them completed the assisted questionnaire survey, yielding a response rate of 79.9%. Their mean age was 58 ± 8 years, females 51.3% and Chinese 69.3%. Overall, 53.0% of the patients were willing to use TM. Personal beliefs on technology (OR = 3.54, 95%CI = 2.50–4.50, p < 0.001), prior technology utility (OR = 3.18, 95%CI = 1.57–6.42, p = 0.001), Patient’s requirements to be accompanied (OR = 1.48, 95% CI = 1.054–2.082, P = 0.03) Cost considerations (OR = 2.96, 95% CI = 2.257–3.388, P < 0.01) and technological literacy (OR = 2.77, 95%CI = 2.05–3.38, p < 0.001) were associated with willingness to use TM.ConclusionSlightly over half of the patients were willing to use TM. Factors such as age, ethnicity, technological literacy, beliefs and previous utility of technology of the patients have to be addressed before implementing TM in primary care.

Willingness to quit alcohol use and its associated factors among male outpatients attending urban primary health centers in Delhi.

CONTEXT:Harmful use of alcohol has led to 1.7 million deaths from noncommunicable diseases and 1 million injury deaths including road traffic accidents, self-harm, and interpersonal violence. The opportunistic screening can be used to screen for substance abuse in outpatient department (OPD) attendees of primary health-care (PHC) settings in India.AIMS:This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of willingness to quit alcohol use among alcohol users and factors associated with it.SUBJECTS AND METHODS:A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in urban PHCs and willingness to quit alcohol was assessed among the alcohol users. Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) scale was used to assess the alcohol use disorder score. Data were entered using Epidata version 3.1 and analyzed using STATA version 14.RESULTS:It is found that two-third of the male OPD patients are using alcohol and 59% of the alcohol users were willing to quit alcohol. Education (adjusted prevalence rate ratio [aPR] = 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.2–2.9), occupation (aPR = 1.4; 95% CI: 1.1–1.8), higher AUDIT scores (aPR = 2.7; 95% CI: 2.2–3.5), frequency of alcohol use (aPR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.0), and positive family history of alcohol-related illness times (aPR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.3–2.0) were significantly associated with willingness to quit alcohol.CONCLUSION:Two-third of the male OPD patients are using alcohol and 59% of the alcohol users were willing to quit alcohol. Education, occupation, higher AUDIT scores, frequency of alcohol use, and positive family history of alcohol-related illness were significantly associated with willingness to quit alcohol.

The prevalence of and factors associated with willingness to utilize HTC service among college students in China

BackgroundCollege students in China are emerging as one of the most vulnerable groups to contract HIV, because they are in a sexually active age group and also because of their open attitude toward sex and high risk sexual behaviors. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of willingness among college students to utilize HIV testing and counseling (HTC) service and the factors that may affect willingness, including predisposing, enabling and need factors, based on the Andersen’s behavioral model.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted from October 6, 2016 to December 31, 2016 in Hubei University of Science and Technology in China. After signing informed consent, college students completed a self-designed online questionnaire distributed via https://www.wjx.cn/ voluntarily, anonymously and confidentially. Pearson’s chi-square test and Logistic regression models were chosen to analyze the factors associated with willingness to utilize HTC service.ResultsOut of 3314 college students in the sample, 2583 (77.9%) expressed their willingness to utilize HTC service. After adjustment, those with low levels of discrimination towards people living with HIV (PLHIV) (OR = 1.41, 95%CI:1.17–1.68), being more knowledgeable about free HTC service centers (OR = 1.44, 95%CI:1.17–1.77), having recognized the necessity to provide HTC service in the local university (OR = 2.20, 95%CI:1.73–2.80), and having a higher HIV risk perception (OR = 1.64, 95%CI:1.37–1.95) were more willing to utilize HTC service, compared with their respective counterparts.ConclusionsIn order to improve their willingness to utilize HTC service and finally to achieve the goal of zero-AIDS, a comprehensive intervention measure should be taken to publicize HTC service, eliminate stigma and discrimination against PLHIV, recruit and train peer volunteers to serve in the local university, and increase self-perceived risk of HIV infection.

Prevalence of actual uptake and willingness to use pre-exposure prophylaxis to prevent HIV acquisition among men who have sex with men in Hong Kong, China.

ObjectivesThis study was to investigate the prevalence of actual uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), willingness to use daily oral PrEP under two cost scenarios, and potential issues related to PrEP use among men who have sex with men (MSM) with HIV negative/unknown sero-status in Hong Kong, China. Factors associated with the two measures of willingness were also investigated.Methods403 eligible MSM completed the anonymous venue-based face-to-face interview/telephone interview.ResultsOnly 1% had ever used PrEP. After being briefed about some facts of PrEP, the prevalence of willingness to use daily oral PrEP was 7.7% if they could purchase PrEP at private hospitals/clinics at HK$8,000 (US$1,032)/month (market rate) and 45.2% if free PrEP was provided by public hospitals/clinics in Hong Kong (free PrEP). After adjusted for significant background variables, significant factors of these two measures of willingness included: (1) number of correct responses to knowledge on PrEP, (2) perceived risk of HIV infection in the next six months, and (3) constructs of the Theory of Planned Behavior: positive and negative attitudes toward PrEP, perceived their significant others would support them take PrEP (perceived subjective norm), perceived number of local MSM who were willing to take PrEP (perceived descriptive norm), and confidence in using PrEP under the two scenarios (perceived behavioral control). Among all participants, 9.7% and 25.1% would start and discontinue using PrEP without consulting doctors; 26.0% would not take PrEP daily if it was provided for free, and 42.4% would not take up HIV testing every 3 months after using PrEP.ConclusionDifferent strategies should be considered for promoting PrEP at market rate and if free PrEP is made available. Future promotion should increase their knowledge about PrEP, modify their perceptions related to HIV and PrEP, and address some potential issues related to PrEP use.

High prevalence of willingness to use direct-acting antiviral-based regimens for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among HIV/HCV coinfected people who use drugs.

Despite the high burden of hepatitis C virus (HCV)-related morbidity and mortality among HIV-positive people who use illicit drugs (PWUD), uptake of interferon-based treatments for HCV infection has been negligible among this group. Direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapies offer an opportunity to expand treatment access among this population. The aim of this study was to explore willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD in Vancouver, Canada. Data were drawn from the AIDS Care Cohort to evaluate Exposure to Survival Services (ACCESS), a prospective cohort of HIV-positive PWUD. Using logistic regression analyses, we investigated factors associated with willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected participants. Of 418 HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD surveyed between June 2014 and May 2015, 295 (71%) were willing to use DAA-based regimens. In multivariable analysis, participants enrolled in methadone maintenance therapy [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 1.61; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04-2.51], those with a recent assessment by an HCV specialist (AOR 2.02; 95% CI 1.28-3.19) and those who perceived that HCV infection was affecting their health (AOR 2.49; 95% CI 1.41-4.37) were more likely to be willing to use DAA-based regimens. Overall, this study found a high prevalence of willingness to use DAA-based regimens among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD in Vancouver. Importantly, enrolment in methadone maintenance therapy was positively associated with willingness, suggesting that integrated models of HIV, HCV and addiction care should be explored as a way to address HCV-related morbidity and mortality among HIV/HCV-coinfected PWUD.