Preventive Behaviors Research Articles

The Effectiveness of Education Booklet and Game Images in Anemia Adolescent Women on Anemia Prevention Knowledge, Attitudes and Behavior

The Effectiveness of Education Booklet and Game Images in Anemia Adolescent Women on Anemia Prevention Knowledge, Attitudes and Behavior

Relationships Between Health Beliefs, Fear of COVID-19, Knowledge of HIV Transmission, And HIV Preventive Behaviors Among Young Thai Men Who Have Sex with Men During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Background: Young Thai men who have sex with men (MSM) are at high risk of HIV transmission, making effective prevention crucial. This study aimed to examine the relationships between health beliefs, fear of COVID-19, knowledge of HIV transmission, and HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: A cross-sectional online questionnaire study guided by the health belief model was conducted among young Thai MSM using snowball sampling. Data on HIV/AIDS health beliefs, knowledge of HIV prevention, fear of COVID-19, and HIV preventive behaviors were collected and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study included 134 participants (59.7% gay, 40.3% transgender). Knowledge of HIV prevention, fear of COVID-19, and HIV preventive behaviors were at a moderate level. Perceived severity of HIV/AIDS, perceived benefits of HIV prevention, self-efficacy for HIV prevention, knowledge of HIV transmission, and fear of COVID-19 were significantly related to HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM (p<.05). These five variables were predictors of HIV preventive behaviors (Adjusted R2 = 0.304, F=6.740, p<0.05). Conclusions: The findings highlight the need for intervention programs focused on improving health beliefs and promoting HIV preventive behaviors among young Thai MSM.

Designing Health Interventions to Meet the Needs and Experiences of Minoritized Adolescents: #DoubleTap4Health.

Engagement in preventive health behaviors (PHBs; i.e., healthy eating, sleep, and physical activity) during adolescence is associated with reduced risks for chronic conditions, such as diabetes, in adulthood. Although several interventions seek to improve adolescents' engagement in health promoting behaviors, racial- and income-based disparities across PHBs persist and may be even more pronounced for adolescents with multiple minoritized identities (e.g., Black adolescents in low-income communities). Therefore, targeted interventions that better meet the needs of minoritized adolescents are critical. The design of such interventions should include: (1) adolescent involvement, (2) cultural tailoring, (3) developmental theory, and (4) consideration of the social determinants of health. This article describes how these elements have been successfully incorporated into adolescent preventive health interventions and used to design #DoubleTap4Health, a community-based social media health intervention for Black adolescents from a low-income community. The results of a feasibility pilot of #DoubleTap4Health suggest that (1) attention to these elements in the intervention design process is feasible and advantageous to ensuring that the intervention components are appropriate and well received by adolescents, and (2) the intervention demonstrated promise as adolescents showed improved engagement in PHBs and media literacy skills. Lessons learned and next steps for intervention development are discussed. Including the above four elements in the design of preventive health interventions for adolescents from minoritized communities is critical to promoting health equity.

Education of the "SusCatinTing" application on changes in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of brides-to-be

The "SusCatinTing" application is a digital health intervention designed to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of brides-to-be regarding stunting prevention during the critical first 1000 days of life. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of this application in improving stunting prevention efforts among brides-to-be in Bengkulu Province, Indonesia. The application provides educational content on healthy pregnancy, maternal nutrition, and stunting prevention strategies, incorporating both text and audio explanations to ensure accessibility for illiterate and visually impaired users. A quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a single-group pretest-posttest approach involving 50 pairs of brides-to-be with internet-connected Android smartphones. Data collection was conducted through structured questionnaires administered by trained enumerators, focusing on KAP related to stunting prevention. The results indicated a significant improvement in KAP scores post-intervention (knowledge score increase: 42.59, p < 0.001). The application’s unique features, including interactive quizzes and a certification process for marriage registration at the Office of Religious Affairs, contributed to its effectiveness. The study concludes that the "SusCatinTing" application is a promising tool for enhancing health education and promoting preventive behaviors among brides-to-be. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term impact of such digital interventions on stunting rates and maternal-child health outcomes.

Research on the Impact of Managers’ Safety Perception on Construction Workers’ Safety Behaviors

The construction industry is replete with significant safety risks, underscoring the necessity to comprehend the factors that shape workers’ safety behaviors for efficacious accident prevention. This study aims to investigate the impact of managers’ safety perception (MSP) on construction workers’ safety behaviors (WSBs), while also exploring the mediating roles of workers’ safety awareness (WSA) and workers’ safety competency (WSC). Utilizing a structural equation model (SEM), data were collected from 248 construction workers through a validated questionnaire. The findings indicate that MSP has a direct influence on WSBs (mean effect size = 0.065, p < 0.01) and an indirect effect on WSBs through enhanced WSA (effect size = 0.386, p < 0.01) and WSC (effect size = 0.392, p < 0.01). This research makes a contribution to the existing literature in several ways. First, it introduces a new measurement scale for MSP. Second, it highlights the direct and indirect effects on WSBs. Third, it emphasizes the importance of fostering safety awareness and competency among workers. In addition, the study offers practical implications for construction managers seeking to improve safety outcomes on-site.

Intersecting Epidemics: Examining the Impact of Internalized Homophobia and Depression Symptoms on HIV Testing ThroughaSuicide Syndemic Among Young Black Men Who Have Sex with Men.

Young Black men who have sex with men (BMSM) in the USA face disproportionate rates of HIV incidence. Mental health vulnerabilities, including depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma, further exacerbate the HIV epidemic among this population. Internalized homophobia, discrimination, and depression contribute to elevated rates of suicidal behavior among young BMSM, which in turn may influence engagement in HIV prevention behaviors, such as HIV testing. However, limited research has examined the interplay among suicidal behaviors, internalized homophobia, depression, and HIV testing among young BMSM. This study utilized syndemic theory to explore the relationships among these factors in a sample of 400 young BMSM ages 18-29. Results indicate alarming rates of suicidal behavior among young BMSM, with significant associations among internalized homophobia, depression symptoms, suicidal behavior, and HIV testing. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted mental health interventions and HIV prevention services tailored to address the unique challenges faced by young BMSM. Comprehensive, multi-level, community-centered interventions are essential to address the syndemics affecting young BMSM, promoting holistic health and well-being while improving outcomes across the HIV prevention continuum.

Innovative Approaches for Personalized Cardiovascular Prevention: the INNOPREV multicentric trial

Abstract Background Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent a major global health concern, requiring innovative primary prevention strategies. Personalized prevention, through the use of digital technologies and genetic risk scores (PRS), holds promise but requires further investigation to assess clinical efficacy. Consequently, the INNOPREV trial aims to investigate the efficacy of PRS and/or digital technologies in the uptake of CV preventive behaviors uptakes. Methods The INNOPREV trial is a multicenter randomized controlled trial conducted in Italy across three hospital centers in Rome, Catania, and Palermo. It aims to recruit 1020 participants aged 40-69 with a high 10-year CVD risk. Participants are allocated to traditional CVD risk assessment, or genetic testing, or digital interventions, or a combination of both. The study involves comprehensive CV risk assessments at baseline and follow-up visits at one, five, and twelve months. Data analysis will utilize mixed-effects models to analyze longitudinally collected data and explore potential moderators and mediators of behavior change. Results Preliminary results indicate good progress in recruitment, which currently stands at 250 participants (25% of expected). Recruited females have a mean age of 59 ± 6 years, while males have a mean age of 58 ± 6 years. Currently, PRS analyses indicate that 77% of participants have intermediate scores, and 23% have low scores. Follow-up will be essential to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed interventions. Conclusions We expect that the INNOPREV trial will provide evidence towards integration of innovative approaches based on PRS and digital devices, in the traditional preventive approaches for CVDs. Expectations are high based on the limited effectiveness of the current approaches in CV risk reduction based on lifestyle advice. Key messages • INNOPREV trial examines PRS and digital technology for CVD prevention, aiming to enhance preventive efficacy. Initial findings suggest promising potential for innovative CVD prevention strategies. • The INNOPREV trial aims to investigate the efficacy of personalized prevention strategies, including PRS and digital technologies, in improving cardiovascular preventive behaviors.

Predictors of infectious disease-related behaviors among adolescents in Armenia

Abstract Background We explored the behaviors related to infectious diseases (ID) and its predictors among 15-17 years old adolescents in Armenia. Methods We surveyed adolescents from public and private high schools in Yerevan and one province in 2023. The instrument explored ID-related behaviors, health literacy (HL), interest in health, and socio-demographics. ID-related behaviors were measured with five Yes/No questions about sharing a toothbrush, covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing, and washing hands with soap and water - before eating, after using the bathroom, and when coming home. HL was assessed with ten questions on a scale from ‘Strongly disagree’ to ‘Strongly agree’. Summative scores were calculated for ID-related behaviors and HL. Multivariable regression analysis explored factors associated with ID-related behaviors. Results Overall, 366 students completed the survey, most of them being females (64.4%). The majority were interested in health issues (80.7%). Almost all respondents reported not sharing a toothbrush with other persons (97.9%) and usually covering their mouth when coughing or sneezing in public places (94.1%). Somewhat lower percentages reported washing hands with soap and water before eating (82.0%), after using the bathroom (89.2%), and when coming home (86.6%). The mean behavior score was 4.52 out of 5 (SD = 0.92) and the percent score was 90.4%. The average HL score was 17.41 out of 30 (SD = 4.47). In the regression analysis, being female vs. male, being interested in health vs. not, studying in private vs. public schools, and having higher HL were independent significant predictors for higher score of ID-related behaviors. Conclusions Armenian adolescents reported high levels of compliance with ID-related behaviors. Improving health literacy and fostering interest in health can help further enhance the performance of preventive behaviors. Interventions targeting public schools and male adolescents are particularly pertinent. Key messages • Being female, studying in private schools, having higher interest in health issues, and better health literacy independently positively influence infectious disease-related behaviors. • Promoting health literacy and fostering interest in health in high schools have the potential to further enhance infectious disease prevention behaviors among adolescents.

EHealth Communication Intervention to Promote Human Papillomavirus Vaccination Among Middle-School Girls: Development and Usability Study.

As the age of initiating sexual intercourse has gradually decreased among South Korean adolescents, earlier vaccination of adolescents for human papillomavirus (HPV) is necessary before their exposure to HPV. Health communication includes "cues to action" that lead to preventive health behaviors, and recently, social networking services, which operate with fewer time and space constraints, have been used in various studies as a form of eHealth communication. This study aims to investigate the feasibility and usability of an eHealth communication intervention for HPV vaccination in middle-school girls aimed at the girls and their mothers. The eHealth communication intervention for HPV vaccination was developed using a 6-step intervention mapping process: needs assessments, setting program outcomes, selection of a theory-based method and practical strategies, development of the intervention, implementation plan, and testing the validity of the intervention. A review of 10 studies identified effective health communication messages, delivery methods, and theories for HPV vaccination among adolescents. Barriers including low knowledge, perceived threat, and the inconvenience of taking 2 doses of the vaccine were identified through focus groups, suggesting a need for youth-friendly and easy-to-understand information for adolescents delivered via mobile phones. The expected outcomes and the performance objectives are specifically tailored to reflect the vaccination intention. Behavior change techniques were applied using trusted sources and a health belief model. Health messages delivered through a KakaoTalk chatbot improved awareness and self-efficacy. Quality control was ensured with the use of a log system. The experts' chatbot usability average score was 80.13 (SD 8.15) and the average score of girls was 84.06 (SD 7.61). Future studies need to verify the effectiveness of health communication strategies in promoting HPV vaccination and the effectiveness of scientific intervention using a chatbot as a delivery method for the intervention.

Factors influencing protective gear use in crisis-affected Afghanistan during COVID-19

Abstract Background Afghanistan has faced considerable challenges in healthcare delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges were compounded by limited health literacy, shortages of skilled health workers, and fragile health infrastructure, which increased the country’s double burden of disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the use of masks as part of a comprehensive strategy to mitigate the spread of SARS-CoV-2. Nevertheless, research on mask-wearing practices in Afghanistan is limited. This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the wearing of protective gear, including masks, during the COVID-19 pandemic in Afghanistan. Methods This study analyzed 16,058 households from the 2020 Afghanistan Multi-Sector Needs Assessment (MSNA) survey data. This survey was conducted between August and September 2020 by the Racial and Ethnic Approaches to Community Health (REACH) Initiative. Sampling weighted multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was performed. Results Recent internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees in Afghanistan were more likely to wear protective gear to prevent COVID-19 compared to non-recent IDPs. Factors such as household sizes, household income, knowledge of humanitarian support, and the distance to healthcare facilities were significantly associated with the likelihood of wearing protective gear. Conclusions The study suggests that certain factors place crisis-affected populations in Afghanistan at high risk in COVID-19 preventive behaviors, especially in wearing protective gear. The findings in this study indicate that public health interventions should focus on improving healthcare accessibility and enhancing information dissemination while considering socioeconomic factors. Additionally, this study highlights the need for access to personal protective gear during outbreaks of infectious disease, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Key messages • Socioeconomic factors and accessibility on health services and information can affect COVID-19 preventive behaviors in crisis-affected populations. • This study can inform public health professionals to develop adequate interventions during infectious disease outbreaks.

Adult Individuals Applicable to the Family Health Center Knowledge and Awareness About Osteoporosis

Abstract Background The aim of this study is to determine the knowledge and awareness of adult individuals applying to the Family Health Center (FHC) about osteoporosis. Methods A descriptive design study was conducted at a FHC in Turkey/Istanbul between January and May 2022. The sample of the research consisted of 320 adults selected by purposeful sampling method. Ethical approval and necessary permissions were obtained from the the conduct of the study. Data were collected through a socio-demographic characteristics form, a 20-item single-subscale Osteoporosis Knowledge Assessment Questionnaire (OKAQ), and a 27-item Osteoporosis Awareness Scale (OAS). Descriptive statistics, normality tests, analysis of variance, Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, t-test, and Mann-Whitney U test were used for data analysis. Statistical significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Results T The average age of adults is 60.47±13.17 and 55.9% are female and 44.1% are male. 34.7% had completed middle school. Participants’ highest correct response rate in the osteoporosis knowledge assessment questionnaire was for the item ‘Osteoporosis increases the risk of bone fracture’ (81.6%), while the lowest correct response rate was for the item ‘Osteoporosis generally causes symptoms (such as pain) before fractures occur’ (26.3%). According to the Osteoporosis Awareness Scale, adults’ awareness levels were above average. They scored the highest in the preventive behaviors subscale and the lowest in the risk factors subscale. Adults with university-level education scored significantly higher in all subscales of the OAS compared to other education levels (p < 0.05). Individuals with knowledge about osteoporosis and those who consumed milk regularly scored significantly higher in all subscales of the OAS (p < 0.05). Conclusions Although adults’ awareness of osteoporosis is above average, their correct knowledge about osteoporosis is inadequate. Key messages • An individual’s education level affects osteoporosis knowledge and awareness. • It is recommended to plan educational initiatives to increase osteoporosis knowledge and awareness.

Determinants of health prevention behaviors in Portugal

Abstract Background One of the main causes of death in developed societies are chronic non-communicable diseases, often originated by risky behaviors as tobacco consumption, poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and lack of physical activity. Changing lifestyles can thus lead to a reduction in chronic diseases and in their economic costs. The objective of this study is to understand what the main factors associated with health behaviors are. Methods We used the data collected through the Portuguese National Health Surveys from 2014 and 2019. The sample analyzed was composed of individuals aged 15 or more years old living in the national territory at the time the surveys were conducted. Data on demographics, socio-economic variables and health related variables was used. A maximum likelihood estimation was performed using a multivariate probit model, by using health behaviors (weekly exercise, healthy diet, non-smoking, and prudent alcohol consumption) as the outcomes of the analysis. Results The results point to a strong association between social class and health behaviors, particularly between higher income and healthy diet. It is important to highlight that having an appointment with a General Practitioner is positively associated with all healthy behaviors. For all behaviors but healthy diet, the coefficients are statistically significant at a 5% significance level and non-smoking displays the highest one (0.135). Conclusions This study presents the first step to understand the determinants of health prevention behaviors, which is important to design policies targeting lifestyles. One of its main conclusions indicates that social class (income and education) and GP appointments are associated with health behaviors. Further research would be needed to study the underlying mechanisms through which some of these factors impact behaviors. This presentation was supported by National Funds through FCT, I.P., within CINTESIS, R&D Unit (reference UIDB/4255/2020). Key messages • This study is an important step in the formulation of policies targeting lifestyles since it allows us to understand which factors are associated with health behaviors. • From this study one can conclude that social class characteristics, particularly income, and access to GP appointments are associated positively with health behaviors.

O ENGAJAMENTO DOS ESTUDANTES DE MEDICINA COM AS PRÁTICAS PROFILÁTICAS DO HIV

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) remains one of the main global public health challenges, with approximately 1.5 million new infections in 2021, despite the therapeutic advances that have transformed the prognosis of AIDS. In Brazil, HIV has an incidence rate of 17.69 cases per 100,000 inhabitants in 2020, with a significant increase among young people aged 13 to 29, especially in the North and Northeast regions. This cross-sectional study analyzed 50 medical students from a university in Brazil, investigating the association between age group and safe sex practices, such as the use of condoms, as well as the perception of vulnerability to HIV. The results indicate that 61.2% of the students used condoms during sexual relations in the last 12 months, with no significant correlation with age group (p=0.507). However, 50% of the students justified not using condoms because they trusted their partner, and 82% believed that they would be unlikely to be infected with HIV because of their social environment. Statistical analysis also showed that the perception of invulnerability to HIV does not vary significantly with age group (p=0.350). This study investigated risk perception and condom use among medical students, concluding that there is no significant correlation between age group and safe practices. Trust in the partner was a relevant factor in the non-use of condoms, highlighting the need for educational campaigns to promote preventive behaviors and awareness among future health professionals.

Analyzing early childhood allergy prevention motivation of mothers of infants and its predictors using latent class analysis and structural equation modelling

BackgroundAllergic diseases are among the most common chronic diseases in childhood. Early childhood allergy prevention (ECAP) behaviors of those caring for the infant during pregnancy and the first months of life may influence the risk of allergy development over the life course. Motivation and intention to use appropriate primary ECAP measures are thus of critical importance.AimsTo characterize parental ECAP motivation, (a) valid indicators will be developed and (b) typical parental characteristics will be identified. (c) According to socio-cognitive models, the predictive value of parental risk perception, control belief and self-efficacy for parental ECAP motivation shall be determined.MethodA sample of N = 343 (expectant) mothers of infants completed a questionnaire on self-reported ECAP motivation, risk perception, control belief, and self-efficacy. The cross-sectional data were analyzed using latent class analysis and structural equation modelling including nominal regression models.ResultsFour typical maternal response profiles (motivated to a customary degree, 70%; motivated to use primary preventive measures, 17.8%; reluctant towards new prevention measures, 6.4%; highly motivated to apply preventive measures in case of an existing allergy, 5.8%) could be identified for the items on ECAP motivation. After splitting the model variables “risk perception” (allergy vs. allergy-associated general health problems) and “self-efficacy” (trust vs. insecurity) a satisfactory model-fit was achieved (CFI = .939; RMSEA = .064). Particularly, increased “risk perception-allergy” (OR = 1.655) and “self-efficacy-insecurity” (OR = 2.013) as well as lower “risk perception-general health” (OR = 0.555) and “control belief” (OR = 0.217), respectively, are associated with higher ECAP motivation.ConclusionThe use of ECAP-measures by parents to protect their newborns from allergies is important, but there are deficiencies in their implementation. Based on a social cognitive model approach, predictive characteristics could be identified, which are associated with increased motivation to implement ECAP-measures. For public health our findings provide a promising basis for conception of behavioral and environmental ECAP prevention measures and their motivated implementation by parents.

Exploring the effects of mental health on bonding and caregiving among pregnant and postpartum persons with likely depression and/or PTSD in South Africa: A qualitative analysis.

Perinatal mental health disorders place a particularly high public health burden on South Africa (SA) via negative health outcomes for the birthing parent and adverse health outcomes for infants (e.g., low birth weight, preterm deliveries, malnourishment) as well as emotional and behavioral problems in children. Depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health disorders may also compromise engagement in HIV prevention behaviors during the perinatal period, when HIV acquisition risk increases. This is particularly important in SA, where almost a quarter of women between ages 15 to 49 have HIV. There is little research exploring the anticipated impacts mental health symptoms have on one's ability to emotionally connect or caregive after delivery; this critical information will enable providers to support women and their mental health during the transition from pregnancy to postpartum. HIV-negative pregnant persons were recruited from an antenatal clinic in Cape Town as a part of a larger study investigating mental health barriers to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake during pregnancy. Participants qualified for an in-depth interview based on elevated symptoms of depression and/or PTSD. The interviews explored the likely impact of their mental health symptoms on their baby's wellbeing, their ability to bond with their baby, and their ability to meet their baby's needs. Following the principles of thematic analysis, we identified three main themes that described these relationships: (1) a strong perceived connection between maternal mental health and baby's wellbeing; (2) perceived strains on bonding with the baby; and (3) negative impact of mental health on likelihood of completing parenting tasks. This study will inform future mental health programming to prepare pregnant persons with mental health symptoms for a successful postpartum period with respect to bonding and caring for their infant.

Urinary tract infection among pregnant Jordanian women: role of hygiene and sexual practices

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to examine the association between hygiene and sexual practices and the incidence of urinary tract infection (UTI) among Jordanian pregnant women.MethodsThe cross-sectional data were collected using self- administered survey from October 2018 to January 2019 in central Jordan. A total of 200 pregnant women completed the survey. All of them were married and aged between 18 and 45 years (M = 27.45; SD = 6.06). The measures used were demographics, social, hygiene and sexual practices.ResultsA significant association was found between the incidence of UTI and the educational level of husbands (p = 0.05), history of UTI in previous pregnancies (p = 0.02) and being in the second trimester of pregnancy (p = 0.02). Their sexual and hygiene practices also were significantly associated with the incidence of UTI.ConclusionHistory of UTI in previous pregnancies, hygiene and sexual practices are associated with increased incidence of UTI among Jordanian pregnant women. Appropriate strategies and techniques to promote health and preventive behaviors for pregnant women with UTI should be provided to improve the quality of life among pregnant women and reduces economic burdens on health care system.

Health Behavioural Status of Gender Differences in Older People

Aging is a universal phenomenon with no single definition, varying across cultures, time, and space. The health and well-being of older adults are significantly influenced by their behaviors, which often vary by gender. These differences can impact physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life. This study explores the health behavioral status of older adults, focusing on gender differences and how these disparities affect their health indicators. Such changes impact the health status of older people, making it harder for them to manage daily tasks and access healthcare. Conducted in Dhangadhi Sub-Metropolitan City, Kailali District, Nepal, this study aims to understand the socio-economic and health status of older people. Objectives include examining gender differences in health behavior among the elderly in this region. Gender differences in health behaviors among older adults significantly impact their health. Women engage more in preventive behaviors and seek healthcare services, while men engage in riskier behaviors and underutilize services. Understanding these differences is crucial for developing effective, gender-specific interventions to improve older adults' health and well-being. Gender differences were significant, with males showing a higher percentage of better health compared to females, and females showing slightly higher rates of bad health compared to males. Vision problems were prevalent, with a majority reporting no issues, some reporting minor problems, and a smaller portion having normal vision. Significant vision problems were reported by a notable fraction of respondents. Respiratory diseases were more prevalent among males than females, indicating a significant gender association. Gout or knee pain was more common in females than males, also showing a significant gender difference. Diabetes affected a larger portion of males compared to females, indicating a significant gender association. Blood pressure issues were slightly more prevalent in males compared to females, showing a significant gender association. Emotional health conditions such as grief, depression, and sadness showed significant gender differences, with females more likely to experience these issues.

Vaccine Hesitancy and COVID-19 Risk Behaviors Associated with Social Media Use in Japan

ABSTRACT We examined the associations between the use of different types of media and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, as well as risk behaviors of COVID-19 infection, in Japan in late 2021. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted using rapid online surveys of residents in Iwate Prefecture from February 5 to 7, 2021, and from October 1 to 3, 2021. Each individual’s risk of acquiring SARS-CoV-2 infection was calculated using a quantitative assessment tool (the microCOVID). Intention to get vaccinated for COVID-19 was assessed by self-report. Usage of five types of media for obtaining COVID-related information was assessed: (1) newspapers, (2) television or radio, (3) internet or news apps, (4) social network services (SNS) (excluding LINE, a popular messaging app), and (5) other. Reliance on SNS did not show significant associations with either intention to get vaccinated or engaging in risky behavior for acquiring COVID-19. Although users of the internet or news apps were marginally significantly less likely to engage in high-risk behavior, significant associations between vaccine hesitancy and the usage of the internet or news apps were found in the middle age and elderly groups (OR [95% confidence interval (CI)] in middle age: 1.55 [1.07–2.23]; in elderly; 9.24 [3.28–26.02]). The differential associations between different types of media use and COVID-19 prevention behaviors may assist in preparing for future pandemic outbreaks. One implication for public health risk communication is audience segmentation, such as emphasizing vaccine safety and effectiveness for older audiences.

A Novel Data Analytics Methodology for Discovering Behavioral Risk Profiles: The Case of Diners During a Pandemic

Understanding tourist profiles and behaviors during health pandemics is key to better preparedness for unforeseen future outbreaks, particularly for tourism and hospitality businesses. This study develops and applies a novel data analytics methodology to gain insights into the health risk reduction behavior of restaurant diners/patrons during their dining out experiences in a pandemic. The methodology builds on data relating to four constructs (question categories) and measurements (questions and attributes), with the constructs being worry, health risk prevention behavior, health risk reduction behavior, and demographic characteristics. As a unique contribution, the methodology generates a behavioral typology by identifying risk profiles, which are expressed as one- and two-level decision rules. For example, the results highlighted the significance of restaurants’ adherence to cautionary measures and diners’ perception of seclusion. These and other factors enable a multifaceted analysis, typology, and understanding of diners’ risk profiles, offering valuable guidance for developing managerial strategies and skill development programs to promote safer dining experiences during pandemics. Besides yielding novel types of insights through rules, another practical contribution of the research is the development of a public web-based analytics dashboard for interactive insight discovery and decision support.

The Effect of Educational Media Website and Surveillance on Risk Behavior for Prevention of Premarital Sex and Sexual Violence in Adolescents in Gorontalo Regency High School

The Effect of Educational Media Website and Surveillance on Risk Behavior for Prevention of Premarital Sex and Sexual Violence in Adolescents in Gorontalo Regency High School