Public Education Strategies Research Articles

Strategi Edukasi Publik tentang Fungsi dan Layanan Ombudsman: Inovasi Edukasi dan Diseminasi untuk Masyarakat Luas

The Ombudsman plays a crucial role in overseeing the provision of public services. However, awareness and understanding of the Ombudsman’s functions and services remain low, particularly among rural communities and those with lower levels of education. This study aims to explore effective public education strategies to enhance public understanding of the Ombudsman. The research adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, supported by related literature reviews. The theory used in this study is Kotten’s strategy theory as cited in Salusu (2008). The three indicators utilized in this research are organizational strategy, resource support strategy, and program strategy. The findings indicate that while the Ombudsman’s strategies are generally good, they have not yet succeeded in reaching all segments of society. Therefore, the authors offer several recommendations, including approaches that involve local communities and the use of easily accessible media to enhance the effectiveness of education efforts. Programs such as Ombudsman ambassadors, Ombudsman representatives at the district level, and competitions or festivals focused on the functions and services of the Ombudsman are suggested as solutions to attract public attention and participation. Additionally, partnerships with schools and community organizations have shown positive impacts in broadening the reach of information. It is hoped that awareness and understanding of the Ombudsman will increase, enabling the public to be more proactive in utilising the services provided by the Ombudsman

Public complaints of water pollution: A long-term spatiotemporal analysis in Japan

Public complaints about water pollution are important indicators of public environmental risk perception and provide crucial feedback for evaluating the effectiveness of water resource management strategies. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of water pollution complaints in Japan from 1989 to 2021, utilizing integrated datasets that include river networks, water quality monitoring stations, regional industrial demographics, and socioeconomic indicators. Our findings reveal a significant decline in complaints—over 45% from the peak in 2006—following the implementation of various environmental policies aimed at reducing industrial discharge and restoring natural ecosystem function. The shift in complaint targets from industries to individuals suggests that these policies have been effective in mitigating industrial pollution, while also highlighting the need to address individual behaviors that impact water quality. Despite long-term improvement in water quality indicators such as Suspended Solids (SS) and Dissolved Oxygen (DO), no significant correlation was observed between these indicators and the temporal or spatial patterns of water pollution complaints. Instead, a strong positive correlation was observed between complaints and reported water quality incidents, reflecting heightened public sensitivity to acute pollution events. Spatial analysis further identified a significant association between complaints and the manufacturing workforce, indicating that industrial activity continues to shape public perception of water pollution risks. Our findings underscore the complex interaction between public perception, environmental policies, and industrial activities, and suggest that effective water management requires a multifaceted approach. Policymakers should continue to enforce stringent industrial regulations, while also enhancing public education and communication strategies to improve awareness of individual responsibilities in water protection. This research provides a theoretical basis for developing more responsive and effective environmental policies and public education strategies.

The impact of misinformation on social media in the context of natural disasters

Abstract Background Rapid dissemination of information during natural disasters plays a crucial role in managing public responses and ensuring safety. Social media can be a tool to disseminate lifesaving information but is also a ground for the propagation of misinformation. This study examines the impact of misinformation spread through social media in the context of natural disasters and explores related dynamics, effects, and countermeasures. Methods Cochrane and PRISMA recommendations were used for protocol development and sound reporting. Key terms related to misinformation, social media and natural disasters were used, with the search conducted in PubMed, and without time limitation for adequate capture. Only research papers in English were eligible for inclusion. Journal and article quality were considered. No restriction was imposed on country or age of target populations. Results Findings reveal significant influence of misinformation on public behaviour during disasters, often leading to panic and hindering effective disaster management. Specific characteristics of misinformation were identified, incl. its origins and spread mechanisms; proximity -both spatial and social- was found to be a critical factor in terms of spread and reach. Emerging evidence highlights the importance of trusted sources to effectively counter misinformation, yet response time remains a critical challenge. Technical detection of misinformation can help combat it but requires further enhancements for real-time application in diverse disaster scenarios. Conclusions Misinformation on social media poses complex challenges to disaster management, affecting both individual and societal resilience. Proactive communication strategies are critical, as is the development of advanced verification tools, and public education strategies to combat misinformation. Future research should focus on refining strategies to enhance disaster preparedness and response, ensuring a resilient and well-informed public.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FOREST FIRE PREVENTION ACTIVITIES

This study addresses the importance of forest fire prevention and combat activities, emphasizing environmental education as a tool for preventing forest fires in Canaã dos Carajás. The social relevance of the topic is highlighted by the significant impact of forest fires on the environment, economy, and public health, especially in the context of the Amazon Rainforest, which is essential for global climate regulation. The research is descriptive and combines data collection methods, including document analysis and semi-structured interviews. The document analysis involves reviewing reports, public policies, scientific articles, and educational materials, while the interviews are conducted with a representative sample of residents, educators, local authorities, and civil defense professionals. The general objective of the study is to analyze the effectiveness of environmental education activities in preventing forest fires. The specific objectives include analyzing residents’ perceptions of the importance of prevention, the influence of public policies, and proposing improvements in environmental education strategies. The research identified the urgent need for effective conservation policies, given the importance of the Amazon Rainforest in climate regulation. In Canaã dos Carajás, rapid urbanization driven by mining and a lack of resources and infrastructure are critical challenges for forest fire prevention. The interdisciplinary approach, using qualitative and quantitative techniques, allowed for a detailed analysis of the challenges faced and best practices. Location maps and satellite images were used to analyze the distribution of fire outbreaks. The results underline the importance of an integrated approach to fire prevention, highlighting the effectiveness of public policies and the need for ongoing training. This study provides valuable contributions to the formulation of public policies and educational strategies, promoting environmental education and active community involvement as key elements for effective forest fire prevention.

The Ingestion Question: Public Knowledge of Safe Food Introduction in Children.

National guidelines advise delaying initiation of solid foods until after 4-6 months of age and avoiding "high-risk" foods under the age of 4 years. However, foreign body aspiration of food remains a common preventable pediatric emergency. Our primary aim was to investigate public knowledge regarding the safe age of introduction of different foods to children and determine if demographic factors affect this knowledge. An online survey was designed following a literature review and consultation with an expert panel. This was distributed via social media platforms. A review of our institutional data of bronchoscopy/foreign body retrievals was performed to identify trends. There were 1000 survey responses: 79.4% of respondents cared for children and 21.5% were medical professionals; 37.7% of respondents (n = 385) would offer high-risk foods to children <2 years of age and 56.9% (n = 582) to children <3 years. At our institution nuts (65.7%) were the most common food-related foreign body retrieved from a total of 265 over 21 years. Notably, 80% of respondents (n = 800) would offer whole nuts to children <4 years. Respondents with medical training were more likely to hold off on introducing nuts to children until a later age. Although the public has an overall appreciation of food safety, a significant proportion would feel comfortable offering high-risk foods to children under 2 and 3 years. There is a poor understanding of the danger of nuts and the appropriate age of introduction. Further research into effective public education strategies on safe food introduction in children are warranted. V Laryngoscope, 2024.

Promoting equity and social justice: analysing the global impact of educational laws on sex education in Spain and the United Kingdom

PurposeGovernment’s role and sex education are vital in promoting inclusivity and sexual health. To understand the impact that the legislation has had on sex education, it is necessary to evaluate it at the different training levels.Design/methodology/approachThe method used is a critical review aimed at comparing educational and state legislation and its impact on Sex Education in Spain and the United Kingdom.FindingsIn most countries the compulsory contents in the curriculum are oriented to sexually transmitted infections and contraception. Nonetheless, this approach is deemed inadequate and restrictive, failing to cope with the challenges posed by globalization, including the increased spread of sexual infection. Legislative constraints hinder the comprehensive implementation of public health education strategies and social justice concerning sexuality.Research limitations/implicationsScope may miss legislative nuances and regional differences.Practical implicationsFindings emphasize comprehensive sex education to tackle modern challenges and to urge policy makers to incorporate these insights.Social implicationsEnhanced sex education laws foster health equity that will contribute to reducing violence and improving positive attitudes and behaviours.Originality/valueInsufficient analysis exists on the effects of ministry measures in sex education, connecting health, well-being and sustainability. This underscores the urgency of researching the legislative, educational and societal consequences, enabling interventions to address negative sexual attitudes and behaviours, including gender violence, biases against sexual diversity, emotional challenges, sexual freedom and health problems, based on respect for Human Sexual Rights.

The operationalization of a multifaceted, multijurisdictional, multiagency and multidisciplinary capability for unidentified and missing persons investigations in Australia

ABSTRACT In 2020, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) established the National DNA Program for Unidentified and Missing Persons (Program) in a dedicated effort to identify up to 750 unidentified human remains (UHR), scientifically link them to long-term missing persons (LTMP) and provide answers to their families. This Australian-first initiative has implemented a multifaceted, multijurisdictional, multiagency and multidisciplinary approach for forensic human identification. To date, it has provided police, forensic and coronial agencies with an accessible suite of advanced forensic capabilities to expertly examine, or re-examine, 96 UHR and recover useable post-mortem information. Additionally, the Program’s multimedia family engagement and public education strategy has assisted to collect vital ante-mortem information to aid the identification process. The application of new forensic techniques and improved use of databases has enabled the Program to triage UHR of coronial significance, inform the management of other (e.g. ancestral, anatomical or animal) remains and link 18 UHR to 16 LTMP so far. The national coordination and centralization of Program capabilities, expertise and resources, and the forging of collaborative stakeholder partnerships, has proven to be the most effective and efficient way to generate investigative leads, identify UHR, locate LTMP and resolve decades-old cases in Australia.

Understanding Vaccine Hesitancy Dynamics: Insights from Northern Mindanao, Philippines

Background &amp; Aim: Amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, vaccine hesitancy persists, especially within specific demographics. This study delved into vaccine hesitancy among Northern Mindanao, Philippines, residents aged 20 to 64, aiming to understand factors shaping vaccination decisions. Employing the Health Belief Model, the research sought to dispel misconceptions and bolster vaccine uptake through evidence-based public health education and improved communication strategies. By examining socio-demographic variables like age, gender, education, religion, and vaccination status, the study informed targeted interventions for enhancing vaccine acceptance and bolstering community health outcomes. Methods: This study employed a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design and analyzed vaccine hesitancy factors among Northern Mindanao, Philippines residents aged 20 to 64. Stratified sampling ensured representative inclusion across age groups, with a sample size of 372 respondents. Statistical analyses, including F-tests and ANOVA, assessed hesitancy differences, while stringent adherence to data privacy regulations safeguarded participant confidentiality. Results: Among respondents, those aged 51 to 69 exhibited the highest vaccine hesitancy levels, particularly regarding uncertainty and knowledge about COVID-19 vaccines. However, no significant relationship was found between hesitancy levels and age or gender. Conversely, significant disparities in hesitancy were observed concerning educational attainment, religion, and vaccination status. Conclusion: While age, gender, education, and religion are associated with varying levels of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, none singularly determine hesitancy. Enhanced education and knowledge about vaccines correlate with decreased hesitancy, emphasizing the necessity of targeted education initiatives. However, significant hesitancy disparities based on vaccination status underscore the ongoing challenge of addressing hesitancy despite reassurances about vaccine safety. Recommendation: Implementing tailored educational programs that address specific concerns related to demographic factors is recommended as a crucial strategy for reducing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy

Evaluation of the population-level impacts of the LiveLighter® obesity prevention campaign from 2012 to 2019 based on serial cross-sectional surveys

BackgroundHalting and reversing the upward trend in obesity requires sustained implementation of comprehensive, evidence-based strategies at the population-level. The LiveLighter® program targets adults using a range of public education strategies, including mass media campaigns, to support healthy lifestyle changes to attain or maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic disease. LiveLighter® has been implemented in Western Australia (WA) since 2012 and, to our knowledge, includes the longest running adult-targeted mass media campaign for healthy weight and lifestyle promotion and education globally. This evaluation assessed the impact of LiveLighter® on WA adults’ knowledge, intentions and behaviours as they relate to healthy eating and body weight from 2012 to 2019.MethodsLiveLighter® mass media campaigns, which are TV-led and aired statewide, depict genuine, graphic imagery of visceral fat around internal organs to raise awareness about the link between excess body weight and chronic diseases; demonstrate how unhealthy food and drink consumption can contribute to unhealthy weight gain; and recommend healthy alternatives. Cross-sectional telephone surveys were conducted at baseline and following each campaign phase with an independent, randomly selected sample of WA adults aged 25 to 49 years (n = 501 to n = 1504 per survey) to assess their knowledge of the link between excess body weight and chronic diseases, and their intentions and behaviours related to healthy eating and weight. Multivariable logistic regression models were undertaken to assess differences in responses between baseline and each post-campaign survey.ResultsCompared to baseline, there were significant increases in the proportion of respondents reporting knowledge of excess body weight as a risk factor for certain cancers and type 2 diabetes, intentions to eat more fruit and vegetables and drink less sugar sweetened beverages (SSBs) in the next seven days, and the proportion of respondents who reported meeting guidelines for daily vegetable intake. Reported consumption of SSBs significantly decreased.ConclusionsLiveLighter® is associated with improvements in knowledge of the health risks associated with excess body mass, increased vegetable intake and reduced SSB consumption in WA adults. These findings support the use of sustained, well-designed healthy lifestyle promotion and education programs as part of a comprehensive obesity prevention strategy.

Mengamati Perilaku Merokok pada Masyarakat Batang Kilat, Kelurahan Sei Mati, Medan Labuhan Tahun 2023

This research aims to determine the percentage of the population that actively smokes and to demonstrate the behavior of coastal communities in the Sei Mati Medan Labuhan Village related to health. To achieve this goal, the researcher used a quantitative descriptive method by administering questionnaires to informants or the public to calculate, present, and percentage the number of people regarding smoking behavior. The analysis technique was conducted through interviews with questions that had been prepared in the questionnaire. The research results indicate that out of 30 samples taken from coastal communities, 60% of the respondents are active smokers, with the majority being 20 years old. The supporting factor for public health education strategies in the Sei Mati Medan Labuhan Village is the high number of active smokers in the coastal area and its connection to driving behavior in the community itself.

Ocean Literacy Strategies Using Flag Animal as Environmental Awareness Model

In recent decades, anthropogenic pressures associated with the unsustainable use of resources have threatened the health of the oceans and the dynamics of life. Considering the importance of marine resources for the economy and maintaining the diversity of life on earth, effective and immediate measures are necessary to raise society's awareness of changes and the adoption of sustainable lifestyle habits. To this end, the United Nations (UN) created the decade of the oceans, 2020-2030, compiling a series of actions worldwide that can minimize impacts on marine ecosystems. One of the ways to reach and raise awareness in society is the use of animated flags, which are charismatic and, therefore, attract attention and make it possible to disseminate environmental education. Therefore, in this experience report, we describe the use of sea turtles as a flag animal for environmental awareness and the different strategies that were adopted to reach target audiences. Ocean education is considered one of the main mechanisms that can, in the medium and long term, establish a new dynamic in the use and relationship between men and marine ecosystems. By expanding joint actions between society and public authorities, effective and long-term ocean education strategies can be established, with the formation of citizens with environmental awareness and criticism.

Tendência temporal e perfil epidemiológico dos acidentes causados por animais peçonhentos no Estado do Pará, 2018-2022

Abstract Accidents involving venomous animals are a significant public health issue in Brazil, with about 140,000 cases reported annually. Pará, with its vast forests and biodiversity, experiences high incidences exacerbated by human-environment interactions. This study analyzes the temporal trend and epidemiological profile of such accidents in Pará from 2018 to 2022. A cross-sectional study using SINAN data, employing Prais-Winsten linear regression to evaluate temporal trends. Incidences were stratified by sex, age group, and accident location (rural, agricultural, work, residential, leisure). From 2018 to 2022, accidents in rural areas, particularly agricultural, increased notably, with a 40% rise overall. Males aged 20-39 years were most affected. March consistently recorded the highest cases, indicating a seasonal peak. Accidents involving venomous animals in Pará are increasing, particularly in areas of agricultural expansion. This trend highlights the need for intensified prevention efforts, public education, and effective treatment strategies, integrating public health measures and environmental management.

Crime and Safety Concerns to Safe and Vibrant Parks and Open

This paper delves into the crucial relationship between safety, public parks, and crime prevention, exploring the various factors that contribute to a safe and vibrant park environment. It examines the impact of urban and built environments, crime statistics, safety audits, design, conditions, and other elements on overall park safety, with a focus on Koramangala's social morphology. The paper emphasizes the significance of safety in public parks, highlights the purpose and importance of safety audits, discusses the intricate connection between crime and safety, and underscores the role of user perceptions in shaping park safety. Additionally, it explores how park redesign can enhance safety, the reliability of crime statistics, the value of user experiences, strategies for public education, and the importance of maintenance in ensuring the safety and vibrancy of public parks. Key Words: crime, park, safety, green, public, socialize, neighbourhood

The contribution of the SafeWAVE EU project to the future development of ocean energy

The European Atlantic Ocean offers a high potential for marine renewable energy (MRE), which is targeted to be at least 32% of the EU’s gross final consumption by 2030. The European Commission is supporting the development of the ocean energy sector through an array of activities and policies: the Green Deal, the Energy Union, the Strategic Energy Technology Plan (SET-Plan) and the Sustainable Blue Economy Strategy. The nascent status of the MRE sector and Wave Energy (WE) in particular, yields many unknowns about its potential environmental pressures and impacts. Wave Energy Converters’ (WECs) operation in the marine environment is still perceived by regulators and stakeholders as a risky activity. The complexity of MRE licensing processes is also indicated as one of the main barriers to the development of the sector. The lack of clarity of procedures, the varied number of authorities to be consulted and the early stage of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) implementation are examples of the issues identified that may delay the permitting of the projects. Finally, there is also a need to provide more information on the sector to the general public. Only with an informed society would be possible to carry out fruitful public debates on MRE implementation at the local level. These non-technological barriers that could hinder the future development of WE in EU were addressed by the WESE project funded by EMFF in 2018. The present project builds on the results of the WESE project and aims to move forward through the following specific objectives:&#x0D; &#x0D; Development of an Environmental Research Demonstration Strategy based on the collection, processing, modelling, analysis and sharing of environmental data collected in WE sites from different European countries where WECs are currently operating (Mutriku power plant and BIMEP in Spain, Aguçadoura in Portugal and SEMREV in France).&#x0D; Development of a Consenting and Planning Strategy through providing guidance to ocean energy developers and to public authorities tasked with consenting and licensing of WE projects in France and Ireland; this strategy will build on country-specific licensing guidance and on the application of the MSP decision support tools (i.e. WEC-ERA[1] and VAPEM[2] tools) developed for Spain and Portugal in the framework of the WESE project; the results will complete guidance to ocean energy developers and public authorities for most of the EU countries in the Atlantic Arch.&#x0D; Development of a Public Education and Engagement Strategy to work collaboratively with coastal communities in France, Ireland, Portugal and Spain, to co-develop and demonstrate a framework for education and public engagement (EPE) of MRE enhancing ocean literacy and improving the quality of public debates.&#x0D; &#x0D; The project will finish in September 2023. In this contribution we present the main outcomes, results and lessons learnt during the project.&#x0D; [1] https://aztidata.es/wec-era/;&#x0D; [2] https://aztidata.es/vapem/

Public Effort and Participation in the Enforcement of Corruption Eradication in Indonesia

Corruption remains a pressing issue with far-reaching adverse effects on numerous aspects of human existence globally. Combating corruption is a crucial priority in Indonesia that requires concerted efforts. This study employs a normative legal research methodology to construct and conceptualize laws based on applicable doctrines and legal concepts. In addition, it employs a case study approach to investigate specific instances of corruption in depth. This study aims to provide an overview of the regulations regarding the eradication of corruption and to demonstrate how community involvement can contribute to enforcing anti-corruption measures. The results show that Law Number 1 of 2023 concerning the Criminal Code in the article concerning corruption, the penalties set for corruptors are very far from what they are entitled to receive. In relation to reports of corruption cases, this study suggests that a public education strategy aiming at educating the general public directly or via social media must be conducted. This strategy intends to increase public awareness and encourage membership in the IFC (Indonesia is Free of Corruption) organization, which provides legal protection against alleged corruption offenders. In addition, regarding the punishment for corruptors, DPR RI (House of Representatives) are suggested to revise the current law that perpetrators of corruption who have amassed more than Rp 100,000,000 will face court-determined punishments, such as the return of illicit gains or the maximum penalty of the death penalty.

Preparing Public Health Responses to Mass Shooting Incidents

The Pulse| June 2023 Preparing Public Health Responses to Mass Shooting Incidents Amy Gallagher Amy Gallagher Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar ASA Monitor June 2023, Vol. 87, 27–28. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000938840.62254.8a Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Peer Review Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Cite Icon Cite Get Permissions Search Site Citation Amy Gallagher; Preparing Public Health Responses to Mass Shooting Incidents. ASA Monitor 2023; 87:27–28 doi: https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000938840.62254.8a Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentAll PublicationsASA Monitor Search Advanced Search Topics: mass shooting, public health medicine, triage, patient tracking Editor's Note: Gun violence, including mass shootings, is increasingly being referred to as a public health crisis. From 2015 onward, the number of mass shooting events and people injured in these events has increased annually, with a peak of 686 incidents in 2021 (asamonitor.pub/41qQhpE). At the time of publication, there have been almost 200 mass shootings so far in 2023 (asamonitor.pub/3UGMBxG). Behind the scenes of mass shooting incidents (MSIs) in the United States stand many dedicated frontline trauma surgeons, anesthesiologists, emergency medicine physicians, nursing teams, and other health care professionals who are advocating for a public health education strategy to reduce firearm-related violence. Brenda Gentz, MD, Chair of the Department of Anesthesiology at Valleywise Health/District Medical Group in Phoenix, and Stephanie Davidson, DO, FASA, of Sunrise Hospital/Sunrise Children's Hospital/U.S. Anesthesia Partners (USAP) in Las Vegas, recently participated in a first-of-its-kind collaboration on mass shooting incidents... You do not currently have access to this content.

Adapting preparedness outreach to a virtual world

Over the last two years, agencies have experimented with new systems and tactics to reach as many people as possible with critical preparedness information. This paper describes how COVID-19 forced FEMA Region 10 to adapt its public education and outreach strategy to a fully online space in order to keep the public informed about potential disasters. The paper discusses how the Individual and Community Preparedness team at FEMA Region 10 reaches thousands of people around the world by hosting regular webinars, live events, workshops and training sessions, and publishing a monthly newsletter. The paper also argues that if preparedness and response organisations are to evolve their outreach strategies and messaging plans and extend the reach of their messages, they must continue to adapt and to meet their target audience where they are.

Predictors of changing patterns of adherence to containment measures during the early stage of COVID-19 pandemic: an international longitudinal study

BackgroundIdentifying common factors that affect public adherence to COVID-19 containment measures can directly inform the development of official public health communication strategies. The present international longitudinal study aimed to examine whether prosociality, together with other theoretically derived motivating factors (self-efficacy, perceived susceptibility and severity of COVID-19, perceived social support) predict the change in adherence to COVID-19 containment strategies.MethodIn wave 1 of data collection, adults from eight geographical regions completed online surveys beginning in April 2020, and wave 2 began in June and ended in September 2020. Hypothesized predictors included prosociality, self-efficacy in following COVID-19 containment measures, perceived susceptibility to COVID-19, perceived severity of COVID-19 and perceived social support. Baseline covariates included age, sex, history of COVID-19 infection and geographical regions. Participants who reported adhering to specific containment measures, including physical distancing, avoidance of non-essential travel and hand hygiene, were classified as adherence. The dependent variable was the category of adherence, which was constructed based on changes in adherence across the survey period and included four categories: non-adherence, less adherence, greater adherence and sustained adherence (which was designated as the reference category).ResultsIn total, 2189 adult participants (82% female, 57.2% aged 31–59 years) from East Asia (217 [9.7%]), West Asia (246 [11.2%]), North and South America (131 [6.0%]), Northern Europe (600 [27.4%]), Western Europe (322 [14.7%]), Southern Europe (433 [19.8%]), Eastern Europe (148 [6.8%]) and other regions (96 [4.4%]) were analyzed. Adjusted multinomial logistic regression analyses showed that prosociality, self-efficacy, perceived susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 were significant factors affecting adherence. Participants with greater self-efficacy at wave 1 were less likely to become non-adherence at wave 2 by 26% (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.71 to 0.77; P < .001), while those with greater prosociality at wave 1 were less likely to become less adherence at wave 2 by 23% (aOR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.75 to 0.79; P = .04).ConclusionsThis study provides evidence that in addition to emphasizing the potential severity of COVID-19 and the potential susceptibility to contact with the virus, fostering self-efficacy in following containment strategies and prosociality appears to be a viable public health education or communication strategy to combat COVID-19.

How Tired is Too Tired to Drive? A Systematic Review Assessing the Use of Prior Sleep Duration to Detect Driving Impairment.

Driver fatigue is a contributory factor in approximately 20% of vehicle crashes. While other causal factors (eg, drink-driving) have decreased in recent decades due to increased public education strategies and punitive measures, similar decreases have not been seen in fatigue-related crashes. Fatigued driving could be managed in a similar way to drink-driving, with an established point (ie, amount of prior sleep) after which drivers are "deemed impaired". This systematic review aimed to provide an evidence-base for the concept of deemed impairment and to identify how much prior sleep may be required to drive safely. Four online databases were searched (PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase). Eligibility requirements included a) measurement of prior sleep duration and b) driving performance indicators (eg, lane deviation) and/or outcomes (eg, crash likelihood). After screening 1940 unique records, a total of 61 studies were included. Included studies were categorised as having experimental/quasi-experimental (n = 21), naturalistic (n = 3), longitudinal (n = 1), case-control (n = 11), or cross-sectional (n = 25) designs. Findings suggest that after either 6 or 7 hours of prior sleep, a modest level of impairment is generally seen compared with after ≥ 8 hours of prior sleep (ie, well rested), depending on the test used. Crash likelihood appears to be ~30% greater after 6 or 7 hours of prior sleep, as compared to individuals who are well rested. After one night of either 4 or 5 hours of sleep, there are large decrements to driving performance and approximately double the likelihood of a crash when compared with well-rested individuals. When considering the scientific evidence, it appears that there is a notable decrease in driving performance (and associated increase in crash likelihood) when less than 5h prior sleep is obtained. This is a critical first step in establishing community standards regarding the amount of sleep required to drive safely.

Learning from the Past to Improve the Future—Vaccine Hesitancy Determinants in the Italian Population: A Systematic Review

WHO identifies vaccine hesitancy (VH) as one of the ten threats to global health. The authors bring to the international scientific community an Italian episode that offers the opportunity to renew the discussion on the extent of the VH matter. The purpose of this systematic review is to analyze the factors determining vaccine hesitancy in the Italian population, to understand its roots, and suggest potential strategies to mitigate it. A systematic review of the literature according to the PRISMA guidelines was carried out using the SCOPUS and Medline (via PubMed) databases, using the following strategy: (COVID-19 vaccines) AND (vaccination hesitancy) AND (Italy). After the selection process, 36 articles were included in this systematic review. The most frequently detected factors associated with VH in the Italian population can be grouped as vaccine-related factors, socio-cultural factors, and demographic factors. Currently, we are facing a gap between the population and science, governments, and institutions. To heal this breach, it is necessary to strengthen the trust of the population through the implementation of health communication and public education strategies, while scientific literacy must continue to support families and individuals in discerning evidence from opinions to recognize the real risks and balance them with the benefits.