Prevention Initiatives Research Articles

Exploring the Influence of Masculine Norms on Suicidal Ideation and Help-Seeking Behavior.

Background: Men account for 75% of all suicide deaths in Australia. Societally dominant masculine norms have been theorized to be linked with suicidality and reduced help-seeking. However, evidence is needed to establish this relationship further. Aims: To further understand the relationships between 11 masculine norms, suicidal ideation, and mental health help-seeking behavior longitudinally in Australian males. Method: We analyzed data from a cohort of 8,214 males (aged 18-55 years), using logistic regression to examine if conformity to any of the 11 masculine norms measured by the Conformity to Masculine Norms Inventory (CMNI-22) at Wave 1 was associated with suicidal ideation and help-seeking at Wave 2. Results: Analyses revealed that being in the high conformity group for the norm of emotional control at Wave 1 was associated with higher odds of suicidal ideation longitudinally. Being in the low conformity group for the global construct of masculine norms and the specific norms of emotional control and power over women was associated with higher rates of mental health help-seeking behavior longitudinally. Limitations: The CMNI-22 scale's limited construct validity and the use of a single-item measure for suicidal ideation may have restricted the accurate capture of masculine norms and suicidal behaviors in Australian men. Conclusion: These results provide support for the contention that suicidality is a profoundly gendered phenomenon by showing an association between masculine norms and suicidal ideation in men. These norms should be a point of focus of male suicide prevention initiatives.

Combating drug abuse through pharmacist-led public health campaigns strategic initiatives for global prevention

The global drug abuse crisis continues to pose significant public health challenges, necessitating comprehensive prevention strategies. Pharmacists, as accessible and trusted healthcare professionals, are increasingly recognized for their pivotal role in drug abuse prevention. This paper explores pharmacist-led public health campaigns and interventions designed to mitigate drug abuse, particularly through education, outreach, and collaboration with other healthcare providers. It examines core components of effective campaigns, including targeting at-risk populations such as youth and high-risk communities. Additionally, the paper discusses global prevention strategies, addressing the cultural, economic, and legal barriers that pharmacists face while highlighting opportunities for their leadership in international drug prevention efforts. The conclusion emphasizes the need for policy recommendations to enhance the pharmacist’s role in drug abuse prevention, alongside future directions leveraging digital health technologies and international collaboration to achieve more effective global outcomes.

A conceptual framework for digital health marketing strategies to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities

This paper proposes a conceptual framework for integrating digital health marketing strategies with public health initiatives to enhance healthcare access and outcomes in underserved communities. The framework focuses on leveraging digital marketing tools such as social media, mobile applications, email campaigns, and search engine optimization to disseminate critical health information, promote preventive measures, and engage communities in healthier behaviors. It addresses the persistent challenges faced by underserved populations, including limited healthcare access, low health literacy, and cultural barriers, by utilizing the accessibility and broad reach of digital channels. The proposed framework incorporates three core components: (1) Health Information Dissemination, which explores the use of targeted digital campaigns to provide culturally relevant and accessible health education; (2) Community Engagement, which leverages interactive platforms such as social media and mobile apps to foster participation in preventive healthcare initiatives and healthy lifestyle practices; and (3) Behavioral Change Promotion, which emphasizes using digital tools to influence health behaviors through personalized messaging, reminders, and virtual support groups. By integrating digital marketing strategies into public health programs, the framework aims to improve healthcare outcomes by increasing awareness of preventive measures, enhancing early diagnosis, and promoting disease management. It also underscores the role of data analytics in refining outreach efforts by identifying specific health needs, tracking engagement, and measuring the effectiveness of interventions. This conceptual framework holds promise for healthcare providers, policymakers, and digital marketers seeking to enhance public health outcomes in underserved communities. It provides a structured approach to combining the strengths of digital marketing with public health goals, creating more inclusive, accessible, and effective health interventions. Future research and case studies can build on this model to refine digital health marketing strategies and assess their long-term impact on public health in underserved populations.

SV2A PET shows hippocampal synaptic loss in cognitively unimpaired APOE ε4/ε4 homozygotes.

We investigated hippocampal synaptic density using synaptic vesicle 2A positron emission tomography (PET), and its association with amyloid beta (Aβ) and cognitive performance in healthy apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 carriers. Synaptic density was assessed in 46 individuals (APOE ε4/ε4 n=14; APOE ε3/ε4 n=16; APOE ε3/ε3 n=16) with [11C]UCB-J-PET standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs), by using the centrum semiovale as a reference region. Differences in hippocampal [11C]UCB-J SUVRs were analyzed with analysis of variance (ANOVA) and linear models. Associations among [11C]UCB-J SUVR, Aβ, hippocampal volume, and cognitive variables were analyzed with Spearman correlation. Hippocampal synaptic density was different among the APOE groups (PANOVA=0.016): APOE ε4/ε4 carriers had lower [11C]UCB-J SUVRs compared to APOE ε3/ε3 (p=0.013). Hippocampal synaptic density did not correlate with Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease (CERAD) total score (rho=-0.052, p=0.74), Alzheimer's Prevention Initiative Preclinical Cognitive Composite (APCC) score (rho=0.17, p=0.28), or [11C]PiB uptake (rho=-0.10, p=0.50). Hippocampal synaptic loss emerges early in the AD continuum and is measurable in vivo in cognitively unimpaired high-risk individuals. Synaptic density was studied in vivo in healthy older adults using [11C]UCB-J positron emission tomography. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4/ε4 carriers had lower hippocampal synaptic density compared to APOE ε3/ε3. Synaptic density was not associated with cognitive performance in this population. Hippocampal synaptic alterations occur before clinical symptoms in APOE ε4/ε4 carriers.

Leveraging openCV and image processing for crime identification through facial recognition

To maintain the safety and security of communities, law enforcement agencies provide vital functions such as crime prevention and identification. Identifying people with a criminal record efficiently and accurately is one of the biggest hurdles in this field. This study delves into a fresh strategy for taking on this problem by making use of state-of-the-art image processing methods and machine learning algorithms. The project's main goal is to identify convicted felons by utilizing OpenCV, a robust open-source computer vision toolkit, and different facial recognition algorithms. By giving them a tool that guarantees a faster reaction rate and improved accuracy in suspect identification, the system is aimed to boost the capacities of law enforcement organizations. This project is based on the tenet of criminal psychology, which states that criminals are prone to committing new crimes. The system's goal is to detect and track repeat criminals both before and after they commit crimes by making use of this information. The method works by taking pictures of people who are known to be criminals and putting them in a database. From there, they can be compared to either live video streams or static photographs taken by surveillance cameras. In order to analyze and identify facial characteristics effectively, algorithms like LBPH and the Haar cascade classifier are also used. The system's robustness and efficiency are guaranteed by integrating these approaches into the OpenCV framework. This research makes a valuable contribution to the field of crime prevention by offering law enforcement authorities a dependable and scalable alternative. This system provides a streamlined interface for storing, retrieving, and matching facial photos. It was built using Python 3.5 and uses SQLite to manage the database of offenders' details. Proactively monitoring persons with a criminal record is made easier and faster with the suggested method. Suspect identification is also made easier. This research showcases the possibility of integrating machine learning and image processing to enhance public safety and crime prevention initiatives. It is an early step towards more complete video surveillance systems.

Sexual harassment among higher education students: a worldwide review

Abstract Introduction Sexual harassment is an uprising problem in higher education systems worldwide with major impacts on students. The aim of this study was to describe and meta-analyze quantitative data on sexual harassment prevalence among higher education students. Methods We searched in seven databases and included studies published in English and French from 2000 until 2023 if they measured sexual harassment prevalence on students attending higher education, and they were quantitative cross-sectional studies. Prevalence estimates disaggregated by gender identity, and world region were meta-analyzed using a random-effects model and reported following PRISMA guidance. Results We identified 53 articles, from 6 different regions of the world, with highly variable sample sizes, ranging from 164 to 779,170. 45% of the samples were from the United States. 32% of studies used convenience or purposive sampling and 39% random sampling. The meta-analyzed prevalence of sexual harassment was globally 36.9% (95% CI [30.6, 43.6], 43.7% for women, 16.8% for men, 33.4% for non-binary. In additional, variations in prevalence were observed across the different world regions. In particular, the Eastern Mediterranean region presented the highest prevalence estimates for sexual harassment among women, reaching 67.5%, while the Americas region presented the highest prevalence estimates for sexual harassment among men, at 18.8%. Discussions Higher education institutions, especially in low- and middle-income countries, should commit to the conduct of surveys to monitor the prevalence of sexual harassment, and policymakers should allocate specific funds and resources to support the implementation of sexual harassment prevention and intervention initiatives in higher education, prioritizing the safety and well-being of students. Key messages • High prevalence of sexual harassment in higher education underscores urgent need for proactive measures to ensure student safety and well-being. • Policymakers should allocate specific funds and resources to support the implementation of SH prevention and intervention initiatives in higher education.

Could We Prevent Tobacco Products in Young Populations?

The well-documented detrimental effects of tobacco on children and adolescents make it imperative to prevent tobacco use in young populations, which is a critical public health objective. Youth are particularly susceptible to nicotine’s addictive properties, and they are more susceptible to developing an addiction to tobacco products if they begin using them at a young age, according to research. The reduction of tobacco use among young people can be achieved by implementing evidence-based strategies, including increasing the minimum legal age for purchasing tobacco products, increasing taxation on these products, restricting marketing aimed at youth, and facilitating comprehensive school-based prevention programs, etc. Furthermore, prevention initiatives may be further bolstered by initiatives to encourage smoke-free environments and offer access to smoking cessation resources. In order to effectively prevent tobacco use in young populations and promote healthier outcomes for future generations, it is necessary to target various levels of intervention and involve multiple sectors, including healthcare professionals, educators, policymakers, and community leaders.

Assessing the contribution of smoking to the disease burden in Belgium, 2013-2020

Abstract Tobacco use remains a challenge given its substantial role in contributing to disability and premature death globally. Understanding its impact on population health, as an attributable burden, can help monitor progress on the effectiveness of tobacco policies. In this study, we used the Comparative Risk Assessment (CRA) method to estimate the share of the disease burden due to smoking in Belgium from 2013 to 2020. Population attributable fractions (PAF) were computed for risk-outcome pairs by age, sex, and region in Belgium for 2013-2020. Exposure estimates were extracted from a time series of the Belgian Health Interview Survey. Dose-response curves or relative risk estimates were drawn from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. In Belgium, smoking-related deaths decreased from 12,851 deaths (PAF=11%) in 2013 to 9,413 deaths (PAF=7%) in 2020. Deaths among men (2013: PAF=18%, n = 9859; 2020: PAF=11%, n = 7041) were three times higher than among women (2013: PAF=5%, n = 2991; 2020: PAF=3%, n = 2341). Over time, larynx cancer (2013: PAF=72%, n = 185; 2020: PAF=63%, n = 125), trachea, bronchus, and lung cancer (2013: PAF=60%, n = 4,899; 2020: PAF=60%, n = 3,682), other pharyngeal and oropharyngeal cancers (2013: PAF=47%, n = 118; 2020: PAF=40%, n = 100), mouth cancer (2013: PAF=37%, n = 172; 2020: PAF=30%, n = 122), and aortic aneurysm (2013: PAF=40%, n = 268; 2020: PAF=33%, n = 209) emerged as the primary contributors to smoking-related deaths in Belgium. While the ranking of contributing causes stayed mostly consistent in both genders over the years, cervical cancer (2013: PAF=23%, n = 53; 2020: PAF=21%, n = 64) ranked fourth instead of mouth cancer (2013: PAF=22%, n = 28; 2020: PAF=14%, n = 15) among women. Despite decreasing trends over time, smoking remains a significant contributor to cancer deaths in Belgium, particularly among men. Results from this study can help inform the development of strategies for smoking prevention and reinforce the need for continued efforts in prevention initiatives. Key messages • Cancers are the primary cause of smoking-related deaths in Belgium, with a decline in the death toll over time. • Understanding the role of smoking on population health as an attributable burden can improve health monitoring.

Factors associated with actinic keratoses in people with albinism in the Albivoire program

Abstract Background People with albinism (PWA) face health inequalities partly due to barriers in accessing health care, consequently delaying the diagnosis of skin precancerous and cancerous lesions. Actinic keratoses (AK), are common precancerous lesions, indicating a high risk of skin cancer. Given the scarcity of research on skin cancer prevention among PWA in Africa, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with AK in PWA followed in the Albivoire program. Methods This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted within the ongoing Albivoire program in Ivory Cost. Initiated in Ivory Coast in 2021, Albivoire is the largest comprehensive preventive and care initiative with and for PWA, offering medical consultation campaigns in dermatology, ophthalmology, and psychology. Dermatological records of consenting patients were analyzed. The prevalence (95%CI) of AK was estimated, and the associated factors assessed using logistic model. Results To date, a total of 1978 PWA received care across four regions (Abidjan, Bouaké, Korhogo and Man). Available data from 475 PWA were analyzed, among whom 247 (52%) were women. The median age was 14 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 7-25). Of these, 181 individuals (38.1%, 95% CI [33.7 - 42.6]) presented with actinic keratoses (AK). The median age of PWA with AK was 22 years (vs 11 years for without AK (p < 0.001). Among PWA with AK, 87.8% were daily exposed to sun (vs 12.2% for those exposed occasionally, p = 0.026). In the multivariate analysis, factors significantly associated with AK included age 22 years or older (vs age < 22 years, aOR=4.83, p < 0.001), the presence of ephelides (vs absence; aOR=2.08, p = 0.003) and presence of xerosis (vs absence aOR=4.88, p < 0.001). Conclusions This study highlights the high prevalence of AK in PWA in Ivory Cost, and identifies specific modifiable associated factors which should be targeted in global health strategies to prevent skin cancer among this vulnerable population. Key messages • Prevalence of skin precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses) in people with albinism in Ivory Cost is high (38%) and associated with modifiable risk factors. • Tailored public health interventions needed to prevent skin cancers in vulnerable populations, targeting lesions like xerosis, ephelides, and actinic keratoses through skin protection.

Emergency consultations to pediatric dermatology at a large children’s hospital in Saudi Arabia

Dermatology is commonly considered a non-urgent and outpatient-centered specialty. Limited studies have evaluated skin diseases presenting to the pediatric emergency department. This study aims to characterize the most common pediatric dermatological conditions prompting an emergency department visit between August 2018 and August 2023 in a large children’s hospital in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A total of 183 patients were included. The majority of patients were 2 years old and younger [87 (47.5%)]. Gender was almost equally distributed, with 51.4% of the population being females. Infectious and inflammatory disorders were the most commonly encountered conditions, accounting for 35.5% and 33.9%, respectively. The top three diagnoses were atopic dermatitis (12.02%), impetigo (6.56%), and infantile hemangioma (6.01%). Understanding the variety of skin disorders presented to pediatric emergency departments can positively enhance patient care in dermatology clinics and promote preventative public health initiatives, thus minimizing emergency department visits.

Public-Private Partnerships: A model for injury prevention and safety promotion – Benefitting communities and NGOs

Abstract Injuries are a leading cause of death up to 45years, and 12% of all hospital beds in Norway are dedicated to accident-related treatments. Addressing injuries poses a significant public health challenge, and preventing accidents is crucial for saving money and resources. The Norwegian Act of Public Health mandates that municipalities promote the population’s health and well-being, contribute to favourable environmental conditions, and prevent mental and somatic illnesses and injuries. This is echoed in various laws and regulations, providing a supportive framework for injury prevention and safety promotion. However, translating these laws and regulations into effective policies and preventive activities necessitates collaboration across sectors and levels. To meet these demands, a public-private partnership for safety has been established through five-year cooperation agreements between the Ministry of Health, Finance Norway (Association for financial and insurance industry in Norway), and the Norwegian Safety Forum (NSF). As a non-profit organization, NSF is a national advocate for safety, specializing in home and leisure injury prevention, road safety and Safe Community initiatives in Norway. Program Description The collaboration aims to reduce accidents and injuries. The agreement secures basic financing for NSF and serves as a platform for knowledge sharing and competence building across sectors. It facilitates seminars and meetings to promote learning among different professions, benefiting municipalities and the public. The collaboration leverages the Ministry’s resources, insurance companies’ data and knowledge, and NSF’s expertise to develop injury prevention programs through dialogue with communities and organizations. This model brings together private-public and NGO perspectives. It also provides enhanced possibilities for coordination on both national and community level, enhancing data and knowledge availability and strengthening capacity for safety promotion.

Twenty-year trends in excess costs of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Several major risk factors for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), such as population aging, smoking rates, and air pollution levels are rapidly changing, causing inevitable changes in the population burden of COPD. We determined the excess direct costs of COPD and their trend from 2001 to 2020. Using administrative health data from British Columbia, Canada, we created a retrospective matched cohort of physician-diagnosed COPD patients and non-COPD individuals. Excess direct medical costs (2020 $CAD) were estimated by analysing hospital records, outpatient services, medications, and community-care services. Comorbidity classes were assessed using the International Classification of Diseases codes. Excess COPD costs were estimated as the adjusted difference in direct medical costs between COPD and non-COPD cohorts. There were 208 554 and 404 703 individuals in the COPD and non-COPD cohorts, respectively (47.8% female; mean baseline age 69.1 and 68.2 years, respectively). Direct medical costs for COPD were $9224 per patient-year (/PY), compared to $3396/PY for non-COPD, giving rise to excess costs of $5828/PY (95% confidence interval [CI] 5759-5897). Excess costs increased by 48% over the study period. Excess costs due to comorbidities were $3588/PY (95% CI 3554-3622), with cardiovascular-related conditions alone exceeding the costs attributed to COPD ($1375/PY versus $904/PY). Despite multifaceted prevention and management initiatives, COPD-related economic burden is increasing, with the majority of costs due to comorbid conditions. Rising per-patient costs, combined with the flat or increasing prevalence of COPD in many jurisdictions, indicates a significant increase in COPD burden.

Active aging, autonomy, and mental health among older adults with chronic illness - focus on optimism

Abstract Background In the active aging framework, the focus has shifted to the quality of life of the elderly, where autonomy plays an important role. Chronic illnesses often lead to autonomy limitations, impacting activities of daily living (ADL) and increasing the risk of depression. Fostering an optimistic outlook can mitigate depression’s severity and promote healthy aging. Methods The data is from a cross-sectional survey in Hungary (n = 832). 60,1% of the sample had at least one chronic illness. Measurements included the EQ-5D-5L, Mental Health Continuum-SF, Life Orientation Test, and the Geriatric Depression Scale. Results We found worse mental health (p = 0,024), lower levels of optimistic outlook (p = 0,002), and higher levels of depression (p < 0,001) among those who reported ADL limitations. ADL limitations (ß = -0,27, p < 0,001) showed the strongest association with perceived health status, followed by mobility (ß = -0,22, p <; 0,001) and self-care (ß =-0,14, p < 0,001). Considering mental health, only ADL limitations (ß = -0,15, p < 0,001) were a significant predictor from the above-mentioned dimensions. Additional analysis showed that depression affected mental health both directly (effect = -1,90, p < 0,001) and indirectly, mediated by an optimistic outlook (effect = -0,88). Conclusions 1. Limitations in autonomy were negatively linked to perceived health status and mental health. 2. The optimistic orientation toward life can mediate the association between depression and mental health among the elderly with chronic conditions. 3. The Implications of the results could enlighten the necessity of preventive initiatives on autonomy preservation and enhance an optimistic outlook to maintain healthy aging and a favorable quality of life. Key messages • Preventive interventions focusing on health-preserving behaviors could be designed for specific groups with a higher risk of ADL limitations in the future. • Optimism could mediate depression’s impact on the mental health of the elderly with chronic illnesses, suggesting that interventions should target enhancing optimism for improving active aging.

5.Y.2. Alcohol intoxication among adolescents in Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands

Abstract Excessive drinking behavior poses a significant risk to the health of adolescents and contributes to high social and health costs. It is also well-documented that engaging in risky drinking behavior at a young age increases the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorders and other mental health disorders later in life. Therefore, the timely development of adequate interventions to prevent and reduce such behavior is an important public health task. The initial step here is to gather comprehensive data on the phenomenon. Studying alcohol intoxication data among adolescents is an important source in this context. In the Netherlands, data on alcohol intoxication in adolescents have been routinely collected for several years, leading to a successful transmural framework aimed at supporting these young individuals and their parents. As countries are at varying stages in addressing this issue, the objective of this workshop is to facilitate mutual learning about effective prevention initiatives targeting problematic alcohol use in young people. The workshop will feature presentations from four studies representing three countries: Italy, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Allegra Ferrari from Italy will discuss alcohol-related emergencies among adolescents admitted to an emergency department in Genoa, emphasizing the importance of urgent interventions to mitigate adolescent alcohol use. Hanna van Roozendaal from Belgium will present data from both retrospective and prospective studies on adolescents with acute alcohol intoxication in Antwerp hospitals, exploring the feasibility of follow-up interventions. Louise Pigeaud from the Netherlands will share data from a cohort of individuals under 18 years presented with acute alcohol intoxication symptoms at an emergency department between 2015-2023 to monitor trends in admission characteristics. Finally, Guido van Hal will focus more in depth on the differences and similarities in adolescents accessing emergency care for acute alcohol intoxication in Italy, Belgium and The Netherlands. The workshop will conclude with an open discussion on topics such as the necessary data to be registered for minors with acute alcohol intoxication, the most effective methods for preventing/reducing alcohol intoxication in these age groups, and the potential transferability of the successful Dutch transmural framework to other countries. Key messages • Acute alcohol intoxication and problematic alcohol use in minors can lead to significant alcohol-related issues in adulthood. • Collecting and analyzing high-quality data can facilitate the development of interventions aimed at reducing and preventing alcohol-related issues in adolescents.

Characteristics of adolescents with acute alcohol intoxication accessing emergency care in The Netherlands

Abstract Background Prevent alcohol consumption amongst minors is a major concern for national governments. Collecting comprehensive data on adolescent drinking patterns is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. Therefore, the aim of this study is to give an overview of demographic and clinical characteristics of adolescents with an acute alcohol intoxication in the Netherlands. Methods This study was conducted using a cohort of adolescents aged 14-17 years presenting with acute alcohol intoxication symptoms at the emergency department from 2015-2023. Data were collected at the Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis in Delft in order to monitor trends in admissions for acute alcohol intoxication. Data on patients age, blood alcohol concentration, sex, combined drug use and reason of admission were collected. Results A total of 505 patients who presented themselves with symptoms of acute alcohol intoxication at the Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis were included. The mean age of patients was 15.7 years old. The mean blood alcohol concentration was 2.0‰. During the COVID-lockdown period there were statistically significant less admissions with alcohol intoxication. The distribution of sex was nearly equal with 50.3% females and 49.7% males. Combined drug use was present in 13.4% of all cases, with cannabis as the most frequent type of drugs found. The most common known reason for admission was ‘reduced consciousness’ (35.9%). Conclusions These findings are relevant for both the central government’s ongoing prevention initiatives and treatment strategies within hospitals. In the future, more countries should evaluate data on adolescent drinking patterns.

Sodium and potassium intake in adults: the Italian Health Examination Survey 2023 – CUORE Project

Abstract Background The WHO recommends a 30% relative reduction in mean population intake of salt/sodium within 2025 (baseline 2010) and an adequate potassium intake. To these ends, the Italian Ministry of Health (MoH) has strengthened prevention/health promotion. To update the assessment of the habitual salt and potassium intake in the Italian general adult population, national health examination surveys (HESs), funded by the MoH-CCM, are conducted within the CUORE Project. Methods In 2023 a new HES started including salt and potassium intake assessment by the use of 24h urine collection. Up to now, data from random samples of residents in 7 Regions (of 20 regions) distributed in North, Centre and South of Italy and aged 35-74 years are available (686 men, 702 women). Urinary excretion is assayed by a central lab. Persons with urinary volume < 500 ml and/or a urinary creatinine content referred to body weight outside the range of population mean ± 2 standard deviations are excluded. Results Out of 657 men and 671 women, mean level of salt per day was 9,2 g (95% CI: 9,0-9.5 g) and 7,1 g (6,9-7,3 g) respectively, and mean level of potassium per day was 2,9 g (2,8-3,0 g) and 2,4 g (2,3-2,5 g) respectively. A salt intake level lower than the WHO recommended target of 5g/day was detected in 9,5 % (5,2 -13,9 %) of men and 23,7 % (17,5 -29,9 %) of women and a potassium intake level higher than the WHO recommended target of 3510 mg/day was detected in 22,4 % (16,3 -28,6 %) of men and 9,7 % (5,4 -14,0 %) of women. Conclusions These preliminary data showed that in Italian adults the average salt intake is still higher and the average potassium intake is still lower than recommended. Compared to 2008, the habitual salt intake decreased of about 12% in 2018 and remained stable in 2023; the habitual potassium intake remained stable in 2008, 2018 and 2023.These results justify and encourage the ongoing preventive initiatives of MoH, facilitating the meeting of WHO targets. Key messages • In Italian adults the average salt intake is still higher than recommended and the habitual salt intake decreased compared to 15 years ago. • In Italian adults the average potassium intake is still lower than recommended and remained stable compared to 15 years ago.

Work context and drinking behavior in the French public service: a qualitative study

IntroductionAlcohol use disorders (AUD) are a major public health problem. Among the working population, alcohol is the most frequently used psychoactive substance, as well as the most inappropriately used. Alcohol consumption reduces the worker’s psychophysical integrity, leads to an increase in inappropriate behavior, accidents and injuries, and affects the safety and health of other workers. Thus, the workplace must play an essential role in prevention. Particularly in France, in the civil service, a specific professional sector made up of many professionals exposed to stress, the prevention of AUD must play an essential role. The objective of this study was to describe the framework of alcohol consumption in the French public service in order to understand the sources of alcohol consumption behaviors and to identify the prevention measures to be implemented, in order to reduce the risk of transition to an alcohol use disorder.MethodsThis descriptive qualitative study was based on focus groups. Sampling was purposive and data saturation was verified. Coding was “in vivo,” descriptive and pattern-oriented. Analysis was inductive thematic, and the COREQ guidelines were followed.ResultsFirstly, the presence of alcohol in the workplace has been characterized by a before-and-after a prohibition law, and by the revelation of mechanisms for avoiding the ban. Then, the three main determinants for alcohol use disorders were: society, work and personal factors. Lastly, the prevention initiatives identified must be based on both collective and individual approaches. They must be encouraged by the hierarchy, include screening, accompaniment to care, and take into account both work in the workplace and work at home. The fight against work-related alcohol use disorders must be part of the corporate culture.DiscussionPreventing alcohol-related disorders among civil servants will help fight the burden of non-communicable diseases.

Global warming induced spread of the highest human fascioliasis hyperendemic area

BackgroundClimate change is driving the occurrence of several infectious diseases. Within a One Health action to complement the ongoing preventive chemotherapy initiative against human fascioliasis in the Northern Bolivian Altiplano hyperendemic area, field surveys showed a geographical expansion of its lymnaeid snail vector. To assess whether climate change underlies this spread of the infection risk area, an in-depth analysis of the long-term evolution of climatic factors relevant for Fasciola hepatica development was imperative.MethodsWe used monthly climatic data covering at least a 30-year period and applied two climatic risk indices, the water-budget-based system and the wet–day index, both of verified usefulness for forecasting fascioliasis transmission in this endemic area. To reveal the long-term trends of the climatic factors and forecast indices, we applied procedures of seasonal-trend decomposition based on locally weighed regression and trend analysis on the basis of linear models. To further demonstrate the changes detected, we depicted selected variables in the form of anomalies.ResultsThis study revealed a notorious climatic change affecting most of the hyperendemic area, with a strong impact on crucial aspects of the fascioliasis transmission. Trends in maximum and mean temperatures show significant increases throughout the endemic area, while trends in minimum temperatures are more variable. Precipitation annual trends are negative in most of the localities. Trends in climatic risk indices show negative trends at lower altitudes or when farther from the eastern Andean chain. However, monthly and yearly values of climatic risk indices indicate a permanent transmission feasibility in almost every location.ConclusionsWarmer temperatures have enabled lymnaeids to colonize formerly unsuitable higher altitudes, outside the endemicity area verified in the 1990s. Further, drier conditions might lead to an overexploitation of permanent water collections where lymnaeids inhabit, favoring fascioliasis transmission. Therefore, the present preventive chemotherapy by annual mass treatments is in need to widen the area of implementation. This study emphasizes the convenience for continuous monitoring of nearby zones for quick reaction and appropriate action modification.Graphical

Policy Decision-Making for Population Decline Using AI to Estimate Population Density From Well-Being Indicators

This paper examines whether a model that infers habitable area population density from regional well-being indicators can serve as a guide for policy decision-making to address population decline. The study uses 51 subjective evaluation items from the regional well-being indicators and habitable area population density calculated from e-stat, a Japanese government database. The inference model was created through ensemble learning, generating six weak learners and combining them with a meta-model to form the final model. Using data from Shimonoseki City in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, we varied the value of a single subjective evaluation item to observe changes in the inferred population density. The results showed that subjective evaluations related to public transportation, crime prevention, dining options, and local government initiatives significantly impact habitable area population density. Prioritizing these factors could enhance resident satisfaction and potentially mitigate the issue of population decline.

Sharing the motherload: A review and development of the CO-Parent conceptual model for early childhood obesity prevention.

Fathers remain under-represented in early childhood obesity prevention research and interventions, despite growing evidence that paternal biopsychosocial factors and behaviors from pre- and post-conception can influence lifelong offspring health. Informed by a literature review of high-quality evidence, "CO-Parent" (childhood obesity-Parent) is a new conceptual model underpinned by couple interdependence theory and a socioecological framework. Literature was searched for the concepts parental AND weight-related behaviors AND child weight or weight-related behaviors, in databases including MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Global Health, Scopus, and SocINDEX. Prior evidence syntheses were prioritized as source data to inform model development. "CO-Parent" illustrates the interdependent and independent effects of maternal and paternal weight, weight-related behaviors, and well-being, across preconception, pregnancy, postpartum, and the early years on child weight-related behaviors and weight up to age five. The influences of public policy, social, environmental, economic, community, and other complex modifiable mediating factors are included in the model. The "CO-Parent" conceptual model paves the way for a paradigm shift by recognizing fathers as key figures in early childhood obesity prevention initiatives, encouraging them to "share the motherload." It highlights both the independent and interdependent roles fathers play in the epidemiology of obesity starting from preconception. CO-Parent also provides the foundations necessary to guide future theory and research to be more inclusive of fathers to further understanding of the independent and interdependent influences of parents in early childhood obesity prevention.