Prevention Programs Research Articles

Identifying Key Moments in Type 2 Diabetes Management: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of People With Type 2 Diabetes and Diabetes Health Coaches.

For people with type 2 diabetes who are overweight, weight loss increases the likelihood of achieving diabetes remission. The aim here was to draw on the experiences of people living with type 2 diabetes and coaches who deliver type 2 diabetes prevention and remission programmes. This was done to develop a service that increases the proportion of people who achieve remission by identifying an effective weight management service. A qualitative researcher and co-researcher with type 2 diabetes conducted 37 narrative interviews with adults with type 2 diabetes (October 2022-June 2023) and 16 semi-structured interviews with health coaches delivering type 2 diabetes programmes in England. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Participants were diverse in ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age, gender and years since diabetes diagnosis. Four themes were generated relating to moments in a person's diabetes care: (1) coming to terms with diagnosis, (2) lightbulb moments, (3) sustaining change as normal and (4) becoming expert/building confidence. These four themes were united under a high-level interpretivist theme: 'Same journey, different experience', capturing the mismatch between a linear rigid care pathway described by coaches and the diversity of experience of people living with type 2 diabetes. Coaches and people with type 2 diabetes are aligned on their reports of key moments in adapting to diabetes. Participants' desire for flexibility in their care contrasted with coach reports of rigid service provision. These insights may enable more people with type 2 diabetes to engage and adhere to weight management services aimed at diabetes remission.

A mixed-methods study among adolescents and teachers in Bogotá, Colombia: adapting the OurFutures Alcohol Program.

Early onset of alcohol consumption among Colombian adolescents highlights the need for effective and accessible preventive interventions. This project aimed to conduct formative work to inform the adaptation of an effective eHealth alcohol use prevention program originally developed in Australia, the OurFutures Alcohol Module, to the Bogotá context. Twenty-six adolescents and 10 teachers in Bogotá participated in the study. We used a mixed-methods approach comprising interviews, surveys and semi-structured discussions to evaluate the acceptability of OurFutures. Study materials were translated into Spanish before conducting three 1.5-hour focus groups with adolescents (aged 11-15; n = 26), and 1-hour interviews or online surveys with teachers to assess attitudes towards alcohol use and the acceptability of one lesson from the OurFutures Alcohol Module in the Bogotá context. Qualitative data were analysed thematically, and descriptive analyses of quantitative data reported percentage agreement for survey questions. Overall, 96% of students and 89% of teachers expressed strong satisfaction with the OurFutures Alcohol Module lesson. Most students (96%) liked its storyline and character portrayal, and most teachers (80%) said they would use OurFutures with their students. Participants provided feedback for improving program relatability, including adapting scenarios, character names, clothing and language to align with the Bogotá context and resonate with Colombian adolescents. This study marks the first step in informing the adaptation of the OurFutures Alcohol Module to the Bogotá context and highlights key considerations for cultural adaptations of other substance use prevention interventions. This research underscores the importance of place-based end-user involvement in co-designing adolescent prevention interventions.

Correlation between fall experience and life functions among community-dwelling older adults in Japan

PurposeThis study investigated the correlation between the risk of falls and life functions, including motor function, cognitive function, and urinary disorders, among older adults residing in small cities in the metropolitan areas of Japan and evaluated the contents of fall prevention instructions. MethodsSixty-nine older adults residing at home participated in this case-control study conducted between September and October 2019. The survey items included questions pertaining to the history of falls; grip strength; the 30-s Chair Stand Test (CS-30), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) scores; mental and cognitive functions [Test Your Memory-Japanese version test (TYM-J)]; living conditions; and urination status [Core Lower Urinary Tract Symptom Score (CLSS)]. ResultsParticipants with a history of falls had significantly lower CS-30 and FRT scores, and significantly higher TUG scores and CLSS than those with no history of falls. Grip strength bore significant correlations with the CS-30 and TUG scores. The CS-30 scores were correlated with the FRT and TUG scores. The FRT scores were correlated with the TUG and French State Activity Index (FAI) scores. The TUG scores were correlated with the TYM-J and FAI scores. The CLSS showed no significant correlations with the remaining items. The FRT scores and CLSS exerted a significant effect on the risk of experiencing falls. ConclusionBoth balancing ability and micturition status affect fall risk and should be considered in treatment strategies for urinary disorders in fall prevention programs for older adults.

True and false positive HIV point of care test results in a prospective multinational study of at-risk African women: implications for large-scale repeat HIV testing in HIV prevention programs.

Accurate HIV point of care testing is the cornerstone of prevention and treatment efforts globally, though false (both negative and positive) results are expected to occur. We assessed the spectrum of true and false positive HIV results in a large prospective study of HIV incidence in African women using three contraceptive methods tested longitudinally in Eswatini, Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia. HIV serologic testing was conducted quarterly using two parallel rapid HIV tests. When one or both tests were positive, additional confirmatory testing was conducted, including HIV enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). 7730 women contributed 48,234 visits: true positive results occurred at 412 visits (0.9%) and false positives at 96 visits (0.2%). Of 412 women with HIV seroconversion, 10 had discordant (i.e., one negative and one positive) rapid tests and 13 had undetectable HIV RNA levels. Of 62 women with false positive rapid HIV results, most had discordant rapid testing but six (9.7%) had dually-positive rapid results and four (6.5%) had false positive or indeterminate EIA results. The positive predictive value of dual positive rapid results was 98.3%. Although the majority of rapid test results were accurate, false positive results were expected and occurred in this population of initially HIV seronegative individuals tested repeatedly and prospectively. When HIV infection occurred, not all cases had textbook laboratory results. Our findings highlight the importance of confirmatory testing, particularly for individuals undergoing repeat testing and in settings where the point prevalence is expected to be low.

Developing a data-driven predictive model for substance abuse prevention among youth using behavioral analytics

Substance abuse among youth presents a critical public health challenge, necessitating innovative approaches for early intervention and prevention. This study proposes the development of a data-driven predictive model that leverages behavioral analytics to identify youth at risk of substance abuse. The model utilizes data from multiple sources, including social media activity, school performance records, and mental health screenings, to analyze behavioral patterns that may indicate a predisposition toward substance misuse. The core methodology integrates machine learning algorithms to process and analyze large datasets, uncovering correlations between specific behaviors and the likelihood of substance abuse. Predictive features such as changes in social engagement, academic performance fluctuations, and indicators of emotional distress are identified and incorporated into the model to enhance its accuracy. By applying supervised learning techniques, the model is trained to recognize patterns in historical data, allowing it to make predictions about future substance use risks. Furthermore, the model's design emphasizes real-time monitoring and adaptability, enabling health professionals and educators to receive timely alerts and intervene early when behavioral warning signs are detected. The application of behavioral analytics in this context offers a more proactive, personalized approach to prevention, targeting at-risk individuals before they develop harmful substance use habits. In addition to its predictive capabilities, the model also provides actionable insights into effective intervention strategies. By identifying the most influential behavioral factors, it informs tailored prevention programs that address specific risk behaviors among youth. These findings can support policymakers and healthcare providers in developing data-driven, evidence-based prevention initiatives that better allocate resources to high-risk populations.

Intimate partner violence: impact of a faith-based biopsychosocio-spiritual approach to intervention

ABSTRACT The dominant prevention programs for intimate partner violence are based on Duluth-type models, which attribute patriarchy as the root cause of abusive behavior. The gender paradigm has dominated criminal justice policy and the development of interventions for over four decades. The current study presents a novel theoretical framework grounded in the I-cubed metatheory, as well as evaluates the impact of a faith-based Relationship Violence Intervention Program. The research approach was mixed methods. The aim of the study was twofold. Firstly, to describe and explore factors that may influence partner abuse. Secondly, to evaluate an intervention that falls within the ambit of a biopsychosocio-spiritual approach. The short version of the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scales was administered pre-posttest to assess the effect of the intervention. The sample consisted of a cohort of 35 respondents who were court-referred for assaulting their partners. The qualitative strand of the research revealed that a myriad of factors may contribute to intimate partner violence. The quantitative strand reflected an average reduction in the scores for depression, anxiety and stress, where the scores for depression and stress proved to be statistically significant pre-posttest. The findings suggest that a faith-based intervention has the potential to deter partner abuse.

Factors influencing intentional self-harm in Chungcheongbuk Province relative to the Seoul region in the Republic of Korea: a retrospective study.

This study investigated factors influencing intentional self-harm in Chungcheongbuk Province (hereinafter, Chungbuk) compared to Seoul in the Republic of Korea. Raw data from the Discharge In-depth Injury Survey conducted by the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency were utilized. From 2,329,149 cases recorded over 9 years (2013-2021), 911 were identified as intentional self-harm cases (248 from Chungbuk and 633 from Seoul). We analyzed the differences in and influencing factors of intentional self-harm in Chungbuk relative to Seoul using the independent sample t-test, chi-square test, and binomial logistic regression analysis. Intentional self-harm was found to be 1.232 times more prevalent among females than males (p<0.05); 2.327 times more prevalent among middle-aged and older adults, ages 50 to 64, compared to those under 50 years old (p<0.01); 8.603 times more prevalent among those using hospitals with fewer than 500 beds compared to those with 500 beds or more (p<0.001); 2.412 times more prevalent among individuals using hospitals in different regions compared to those within the same region (p<0.01); 2.217 times more prevalent among those attempting intentional self-harm during daily activities compared to other specified activities (p<0.01); and 6.987 times more prevalent among those using pesticides or herbicides compared to other poisons (p<0.001) in Chungbuk relative to Seoul. In the Chungbuk region, intentional self-harm prevention programs should be implemented, specifically targeting women, particularly those aged 50 to 64. Additionally, due to the high incidence of intentional self-harm involving pesticides or herbicides in Chungbuk, these substances should be stringently monitored to restrict access.

Modelled Public Health Impact of Introducing Adjuvanted Recombinant Zoster Vaccine into the UK National Immunisation Programme.

In 2023, recombinant zoster vaccine (RZV) replaced zoster vaccine live (ZVL) vaccine in the UK National Immunisation Programme (NIP) for prevention of herpes zoster (HZ). The vaccination age was reduced from 70 to 65 years, with a subsequent planned reduction to 60 years. This modelling study aimed to evaluate the public health impact (PHI) of RZV vaccination in the 70 years of age (YOA) population and in younger individuals 65 and 60 YOA. PHI was evaluated from a National Health Service perspective, as cases of HZ, post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN), non-PHN complications and deaths, hospitalisations, and general practitioner (GP) visits avoided using a multicohort Markov model. Three scenarios (RZV vs. no vaccination, ZVL vs. no vaccination, and RZV vs. ZVL) were explored for each age group using population estimates from the UK Office for National Statistics, i.e. 70 YOA (n=649,822), 65 YOA (n=760,578) and 60 YOA (n=849,501). Modelled outcomes in 70 YOA individuals estimated that RZV vaccination would avoid 32,894 cases of HZ and 5915 cases of PHN compared with no vaccination and 26,954 HZ and 3218 PHN cases compared with ZVL. Compared with no vaccination, 2264 fewer hospitalisations and 158,549 fewer GP visits were predicted with RZV vaccination. Hospitalisations were predicted to be reduced by 1996 and GP visits by 130,821 for RZV versus ZVL vaccination. In individuals 65 YOA, it was estimated that RZV vaccination would avoid 50,128 HZ cases, 8623 PHN cases, 222,646 GP visits, and 2671 hospitalisations versus no vaccination. In the 60 YOA group, RZV vaccination was predicted to avoid 57,182 HZ cases, 9327 PHN cases, 234,330 GP visits, and 2547 hospitalisations versus no vaccination. The recent introduction of RZV into the NIP could substantially reduce HZ disease burden and healthcare resource use in the UK.A graphical abstract is available with this article.

Individual, Host-Vector Interactions, and Environmental Risk Factors for Plasmodium knowlesi Malaria Among At-Risk Communities in Peninsular Malaysia: A Case-Control Study.

Background: Highlighting the individual, host-vector interactions, and environmental risk factors for knowlesi malaria were consequential toward more focused and effective prevention and control strategies. This study aims to identify the individual, host-vector interactions, and environmental risk factors for Plasmodium knowlesi malaria among at-risk communities in Peninsular Malaysia. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted involving laboratory-confirmed cases of P. knowlesi malaria, while a locality-matched individual with no history of fever and tested negative for malaria was taken as control. Univariate and multiple logistic regression were applied to evaluate the potential risk factors among respondents using IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0. Results: Results showed higher cases among males as compared to females (76.1% vs. 23.9%). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed being male is 3.51 higher risk (p < 0.001) to become a case. Respondents whose place of work or study is near the forest edge have 44.0% lower risk (p = 0.030), while those living in the Orang Asli village were 56.0% lower risk as compared to the organized village to become a case (p = 0.035). Conclusion: These findings demonstrated that gender emerges as an independent individual risk factor while residing near a forest edge, in an Orang Asli village, or occupying workers' longhouses situated in hilly areas lowered the environmental risk among respondents. These findings attested that alternative directions must be considered in addressing the known risk factors associated with this type of malaria and the design of prevention and control programs should be tailored to the unique characteristics of each population.

Validation of the Sense of Community Coherence Scale for German and Turkish cultures.

Sense of community coherence refers to how much a person perceives their communal life as comprehensible, manageable and meaningful. The study's purpose was to validate the Sense of Community Coherence Scale using two distinct groups of university students from Germany and Turkey. The scale was adapted to German and Turkish using the translation-back translation method and examined in terms of several indicators of reliability and validity, including cross-cultural measurement invariance with the data collected from 489 individuals from Germany and 533 individuals from Turkey. The findings exhibited satisfactory psychometric properties; specifically, high reliability, good construct and criterion validity, and partial measurement invariance across cultures were observed. As a result, Sense of Community Coherence Scale was concluded to be reliable and partially valid in the samples of Turkish and German university students. Validation of the German and Turkish forms of the scale is expected to contribute to mental health research and practice for allowing the measurement of how individuals feel about their community in the context of manageability, meaningfulness and comprehensibility. This study can help researchers and practitioners design enhancement, prevention and intervention programmes aiming to increase the community sense of coherence.

Tier 1.5 as a Strategy for Trauma Support in Schools

ABSTRACT Background Delivering school mental health services within a multi-tiered system of supports (MTSS) offers a framework for addressing student mental health needs. Limited research has examined school mental health provider and teacher preferences for delivering mental health promotion and prevention classroom programming. Purpose We present mental health clinician and teacher feedback regarding their preferred role in facilitating a classroom-based trauma-focused prevention program for elementary school students and define Tier 1.5 within MTSS. Methods Clinicians (N = 9) facilitated Bounce Back for Classrooms lessons with teacher support in 16 classrooms across two school years from 2022 to 2024 in an urban, Mid-Atlantic school district. Surveys assessing feasibility, acceptability, and preference for lesson delivery were completed. Results Findings indicate that although teachers and clinicians both believe teachers can effectively implement lessons independently, teachers would prefer clinician co-implementation. Discussion A co-implementation model with clinicians and teachers co-leading lessons, with increasing facilitation roles for teachers as they become more comfortable with content, is recommended. Translation to Health Education Practice Health Educators, in alignment with Areas III and V of national competencies, are well-positioned to engage in advocacy while co-facilitating curricula at the Tier 1.5 level of MTSS to support high numbers of students exposed to trauma. A AJHE Self-Study quiz is online for this article via the SHAPE America Online Institute (SAOI) http://portal.shapeamerica.org/trn-Webinars.

Jaw exercise in head and neck cancer patients for prevention of temporomandibular disorders: a randomized controlled trial.

To prospectively evaluate the effect of a preventive jaw-training intervention program on the development of temporomandibular disorders (TMD) in patients treated for head and neck cancer (HNC). We randomized 58 consecutive patients with squamous cell carcinoma in the head and neck area into two groups before initiation of a curatively intended oncologic treatment: training with a jaw mobilizer once a day or a control group without active exercise. A comprehensive examination according to diagnostic criteria for temporomandibular disorders (DC/TMD) was conducted at baseline (before oncologic treatment) 6 and 12months after completed radiation therapy (RT). The patients recorded training frequency in a diary. There were significant differences in the changes of maximal incisal opening (MIO) between the intervention and control groups at 6 and 12months compared to baseline (p = 0.010 and p = 0.012, respectively) with more deterioration in the control group. The control group had a higher prevalence of TMD diagnosis at the 6-month follow-up (p = 0.010) and a close to significant level at the 12-month follow-up (p = 0.055). This unique study, which evaluates the effect of a preventive jaw-training program for prevention of TMD in patients with HNC undergoing high dose RT, found that the preventive jaw-training program could prevent the deterioration of MIO and development of TMD. This preventive exercise program could prevent the deterioration in MIO and the development of TMD in HNC patients, leading to less pain and better jaw function.

Assessment of Infection Prevention and Control Program in Misurata Medical Center Using the WHO Infection Prevention and Control Assessment Framework (IPCAF), 2023.

Globally, about 5–15% of patients admitted to hospitals get HAIs and the primary cause for this is poor infection prevention and control (IPC) practices in the hospitals. HAIs continue to be one of the most common adverse events in health care, Despite the developments in infection control measures, HAIs play crucial role in occurrence of antimicrobial resistance. This study aims to evaluate the IPC compliance at Misurata Medical Center (MMC), using the WHO IPCAF tool. A hospital based cross sectional study conducted in The Central Misurata Center in August 2023, data was collected using IPCAF tool form WHO by interviewing the IPC specialist in the center. Responses were scored and interpreted according to WHO guidelines. The total score was calculated to be 607.5 which according to the IPCAF Scoring and Interpretation is an advanced level (601-800), meaning full implementation of the IPC core components according to the WHO recommendations and appropriate to the facility`s needs. Structures and processes of Infection prevention and control (IPC) are in general well established in Misurata Central center. Regular assessment of IPC activities is needed and better action plans to improve the IPC activities in the MMC should be adopted.

The role of obesity in increasing the risk of hypertension in the elderly

Introduction: Obesity has been identified as one of the main risk factors contributing to the increase in hypertension cases, particularly among the elderly. This study aims to analyze the role of obesity in increasing the risk of hypertension in the elderly by examining the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure. Methods: This research uses a cross-sectional design, an analytical study that studies the causes of incidents or incidents. Data collection uses a questionnaire. The sample in this study was 64 elderly hypertensive patients in the working data analysis using the chi-square test. Results: This study's results indicate a relationship between obesity (p=0.000) and the incidence of hypertension in the elderly working. The results showed that the elderly with obese status had a significantly higher risk of hypertension compared to the elderly with average weight. Conclusions: These findings underscore the importance of preventing and treating obesity in the elderly to reduce the risk of hypertension and other health complications. This research is expected to contribute to formulating health policies and hypertension prevention programs among the elderly through a practical weight management approach

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of muscle fatigue on the biomechanics of joint range of motion (ROM) in badminton

This study aims to evaluate the impact of muscle fatigue on the biomechanics of joint range of motion (ROM) in badminton athletes through a systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Muscle fatigue can affect athletic performance, particularly in dynamic movements such as lunges and smashes. Using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method and PRISMA, this study identified and analyzed 9 scientific articles from the Scopus and WoS databases published between 2019 and 2024. Meta-analysis was conducted by calculating the Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) and the 95% confidence interval (95% CI). The results showed that ROM in the hip joint significantly decreased after fatigue, with an SMD of -0.56 (95% CI: -0.76 to -0.36), which increases the risk of adductor and abductor injuries. On the other hand, ankle ROM showed no significant changes between pre-fatigue and post-fatigue conditions (SMD = 0.06, 95% CI: -0.13 to 0.25). For the knee joint, significant heterogeneity was found among studies with an I² value of 52% and an overall SMD of -0.01 (95% CI: -0.28 to 0.26), indicating that the effect of fatigue on knee ROM was inconsistent. This study concludes that muscle fatigue plays a crucial role in biomechanical changes that may increase the risk of injury in badminton athletes. Coaches are advised to implement interventions such as dynamic stretching and foam rolling to reduce muscle stiffness and maintain optimal ROM during matches. This study provides a critical scientific basis for developing evidence-based injury prevention programs.

Promoting Antiviral Access and Adherence in the Expansion of Hepatitis B Prevention Programs: Insights From the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) antiviral administration and adherence are essential to reach the World Health Organization's 2030 hepatitis elimination goals. As HBV treatment guidelines are now simplified and expanded, adherence to treatment will be critical, but challenges to adherence are poorly studied. After introducing tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) monotherapy to expectant mothers with high-risk HBV in Kinshasa, DRC, we conducted semi-structured interviews to understand medication adherence behaviors, to complement pill counts and measurement of TDF metabolite levels. Key facilitators of adherence identified included trust in healthcare workers, a better understanding of HBV, and family support. Identified barriers included fear of stigma and low health literacy. Knowledge about HBV disease remains low, underscoring the importance of ongoing education of clinic staff and patients alike.

Sexual Double Standards and Violence in Intimate Partner Relationships: The Role of Empathy in the Consumption of Online Sexual Content.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fit of an explanatory theoretical model of the relationship between sexual double standards (SDS) and violence in intimate partner relationships when empathy and online access to sexual material are taken into account. Cluster sampling was used to select 490 university students for participation in the study. The mean age of the participants was 21.89 years (SD = 3.52) and 70% were female. A battery of questionnaires was administered comprising the SDS scale, the sexuality on the internet and social networks questionnaire (CSRI-1), interpersonal reactivity index, and the intimate partner violence (IPV) questionnaire. The questionnaires were administered in a group-classroom setting. The results show that empathy acts as a protective and mediating variable because it reduces the impact of online sexual material on violent behavior. In addition, it was seen that the consumption of online sexual material has a direct impact on IPV and SDS. These findings point to the importance of taking empathy and the consumption of online sexual material into account in the development of prevention and intervention programs for tackling violence in young couples.

Current evidence on gender-related risk factors for type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes and prediabetes: a reappraisal of the Italian study group on gender difference in endocrine diseases.

Diabetes is a chronic disease with a significant socio-economic burden. Recognizing its risk factors and gender differences within its physio-pathological mechanisms may allow early diagnosis. This review aims to summarize the current evidence on gender differences in terms of prevalence, risk factors and pathogenesis for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) and prediabetes. A comprehensive search of English-language articles was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library until July 2024. We selected all studies that assessed gender differences on risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes. T1D is an autoimmune disease, with a multifactorial pathogenesis. Contrary to most autoimmune diseases, it has a male gender bias, with a male predominance incidence after puberty, for which the involvement of hormones has been hypothesized in addition to genetic predisposition. In T2D, the accumulation of visceral adipose tissue is recognized as the main predisposing factor for insulin resistance and consequent β-cells loss and dysfunction. Sex hormones influence fat disposition resulting in different body composition between males and females and different metabolic impact. Gender differences in dietary patterns and socio-cultural determinants also influence the risk of T2D. Also, a gender-related risk factor has been detected in prediabetes; indeed, females are at greater risk of impaired glucose tolerance than males. Evidence shows the existence of gender differences in risk factors for T1D, T2D and prediabetes. This suggests that gender should be considered in prevention and screening programs, with the goal of reducing incidence or making an early diagnosis.

Knee injuries in football – types, circumstances, impact and prevention

ABSTRACT Football is a globally popular sport with millions of participants, including professional and amateur players, who face a high risk of injuries, particularly to the knee joint. This study explores the impact of football on knee injuries, detailing knee anatomy, common injuries, their circumstances, treatment methods, and preventive measures. Key findings reveal that knee injuries are prevalent in football, with a significant portion being severe, leading to substantial downtime for players. Effective prevention strategies, such as pre-season preparations and injury prevention programs like FIFA 11+, are critical in reducing injury rates and ensuring players' long-term performance and career longevity. AIM OF THE STUDY: The aim of the study is to summarize the available knowledge on the most common knee injuries in soccer and highlight their circumstances, impact on the health and careers of soccer players, and injury prevention options. SUMMARY: Football's global appeal sees over 270 million participants, with a significant number engaged at professional levels, heightening their risk of injuries due to the sport's physically demanding nature. The knee joint, a modified hinge joint comprising bones, ligaments, menisci, and other structures, plays a crucial role in football-related movements, making it susceptible to injuries.Data from various studies highlight the prevalence and severity of knee injuries in football. UEFA reports knee injuries accounting for 12-17% of all injuries, with severe cases leading to over four weeks of absence. The injury rate is notably higher during matches than training, emphasizing the need for robust preventive measures. KEYWORDS: Knee injury, Football, Prevention, Treatment, Knee joint, Injury

Self-screening practice of breast cancer and associated factors among female students in Ethiopian universities using the theory of planned behavior: a cross sectional study

BackgroundBreast cancer is the most common cancer among females. Assessing self-screening practices for breast cancer patients is vital for developing targeted interventions. The current study aimed to assess self-screening practices for breast cancer and associated factors via the theory of planned behavior constructs among female students in Ethiopian universities.MethodsA cross-sectional study design was conducted using the theory of planned behavior constructs. The data were collected from January 30, 2022, to February 30, 2022, in Ethiopia. A structured, self-administered questionnaire was used. The validity and reliability tests were checked to use the questionnaire in the main study through a pilot test. The data were collected through online Google Forms by distributing them to university students via Telegram groups, Imo, emails, and Facebook. The collected data were exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Bivariate analysis was used to identify the candidate variables for multiple logistic regression (P value < 0.02). Those variables with a P value less than 0.05 were considered significant predictors of breast cancer screening practices.ResultsA total of 418 female students participated in the study. The respondents were aged between 18 and 37 years. In the current study, 318 (76.1%; 95% CI: 72.0, 80.4) university students had good screening practices for breast cancer. Nonhealth-related departments (AOR = 1.95; 95% CI: 1.11, 3.44), having training in breast cancer self-examination (AOR = 1.87; 95% CI: 1.04, 3.35), having a good attitude (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.11, 3.47), having good behavioral control (AOR = 4.1; 95% CI: 2.18, 7.71), and having good behavioral intentions (AOR = 1.88; 95% CI: 1.09, 3.24) were associated with self-screening practices for breast cancer patients.ConclusionDesigning a theory of planned behavior-based educational interventions improve self-screening practices for breast cancer among university female students. These insights could guide the development of future breast cancer awareness and prevention programs in university settings, with the goal of increasing early detection rates and lowering the risk of breast cancer. The study also serves as foundational information for designing future research using more advanced study design methods.