Sex Differences In Knowledge Research Articles

Multiple recommended health behaviors among medical students in Western Canada: a descriptive study of self-reported knowledge, adherence, barriers, and time use

BackgroundGeneral medical practitioners are responsible for promoting and prescribing lifestyle modification and serve as role models for healthy behaviors. We aimed to assess self-reported knowledge, adherence, barriers and time spent on all recommended health behaviors among medical students.MethodsA cross-sectional online survey of eight behavioral domains among undergraduate medical students in The University of British Columbia, Canada, was analysed using descriptive statistics and visual display.ResultsBetween March and April 2023, 137 medical students participated in the survey (74% female). Over 80% had knowledge of five health behavior recommendations, but lacked knowledge of specific dietary recommendations in particular. Over 60% reported meeting guideline-recommended levels for tobacco, weekly alcohol, daily alcohol (females only), and physical activity (males only). Large gaps existed between knowledge and adherence for physical activity, sleep, sedentariness, screen time, and dietary recommendations. Sex differences in knowledge and adherence to recommended health behaviors were identified. Time spent on wellness focused on sleep (47–49 h/week), diet (9.6 h/week), exercise (5.8 h/week), and hobbies (6.1 h/week). Forgetting recommendations (69% of females, 71% of males), and lack of time (72% of females, 52% of males) were principal barriers to knowledge and adherence.ConclusionMost medical students in Western Canada reported not meeting multiple recommended health behaviors. Time was the largest barrier to adherence and free time was spent on sleep. Medical education may require protected time and dedicated content for health behaviors to ensure future physicians can be role models of health promotion for patients.

Sex differences in knowledge and practices regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance in the Puerto Rican population

Background: Antibiotic resistance is one of the biggest threats to global health, and by 2050 it is expected to cause 10 million deaths per year globally. Sex differences depend on context and sociodemographic factors; therefore, studies addressing sex differences have been inconclusive. Furthermore, to our knowledge, sex differences in the Puerto Rican population have not been analyzed. We sought to understand whether knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance in the Puerto Rican population differ by sex. Methods: A convenience sampling was performed at outpatient clinics across Puerto Rico. Those who agreed to participate completed a self-report questionnaire aimed to address demographics, antibiotic knowledge, and experiences. Bivariate analyses were performed using Stata version 17.0 software. Results: In total, 252 participants received the questionnaire, and 250 completed it. Most of the participants were female (71.2%), aged >56 years (40.0%), and had a high school diploma (40.4%). Women had 2.71 (95% CI, 1.1–6.8, P). Conclusions: Women perceived themselves to be more knowledgeable regarding antibiotic use and resistance than men. However, no difference in actual knowledge could be identified. Similarly, antibiotic-related practices did not differ by sex except for using previously saved antibiotic treatment, and men had higher odds of conducting this practice. Further studies should be conducted to understand the factors that influence these behavioral practices, and educational interventions should focus on addressing misconceptions regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance.Disclosures: None

Sex differences in family planning knowledge, attitudes, and use in Uganda

BackgroundLiterature is satiated with studies focusing on knowledge, attitude, and practices of family planning (FP) among the female population, conversely, the gaps in sex-disaggregated data on FP continue to exist. This study sought to report sex differences existing in FP knowledge, attitude, and use in Uganda.MethodsThis study uses data from a household survey that covered 16 districts in Uganda. Multi-stage cluster randomized sampling was employed for participant selection. Bivariate analysis for categorical data was conducted. Multilevel logistic regression model was applied to model the effects of socio-demographic characteristics on the use of modern FP methods.ResultsData from 4,352 respondents in the ratios of 70 % females and 30 % of males were analyzed. The mean age was 28.7 SD (8.5) and was not significantly different between males and females. More male respondents had secondary or higher level of education (44 %) than females (36 %). Knowledge of at least one modern FP method was high, but small significant differences were revealed between males (96 %) and females (98 %). Significant knowledge differences were seen in specific FP methods. A higher proportion of females (71 %) than males (67 %) perceived modern FP methods as always available in the community whereas more males (40 %) believed that modern FP methods can result in infertility than females (35 %). There was high self-efficacy about family planning methods use in both males and females. The proportion of married females that reported using or their partner using a modern FP method was 39 % compared to 45 % reported by the married males. Approx. 53 % of the males compared to 37 % of the females that reported condom use also cited STI/HIV prevention as the main reason for condom use suggesting dual protection as a driver for use. Males, young adults, the more educated, and those in marriage or active relationships were more likely to use modern FP methods.ConclusionsOur study found significant sex differences in knowledge, attitudes, and use of FP methods. The young adults and more educated respondents were more likely to use FP methods. The high self-efficacy observed for both males and females is a signal that both sexes can use FP methods. Project strategies and implementation should take into consideration the existing differences by sex and devise sex-tailored approaches to improve FP knowledge, attitudes, and use in this population. There was increased reporting of condom use as an FP and STI/HIV prevention method, follow-up studies aiming at succinctly measuring dual protection, and its drivers for both sex should be done.

Prevalence and Sex-Specific Distribution of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in University Students in an Urban-Rural Environment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

A recent qualitative study on health promotion in non-communicable diseases in Sub-Saharan University students suggested sex differences in knowledge and beliefs concerning a healthy lifestyle. However, the extent to which this is reflected in sex-specific distribution of cardiovascular risk factors among Sub-Saharan African students have not been fully evaluated. The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and the sex-specific distribution of some modifiable cardiovascular risk factors among students at University of Kikwit in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This cross-sectional descriptive study included 780 students (62.2% men) at the University of Kikwit between January and March of 2016. Data on physical measurements, lifestyle factors, and medical history were collected. The median age (interquartile range) of the students was 23years (21-25years). The modifiable cardiovascular risk factors identified were: alcohol consumption (53.1%), overweight (16.4%), general obesity (1.9%), abdominal obesity (10.4%), tobacco consumption (8.1%), hypertension (7.6%) and high pulse pressure (6.4%). Compared to women, men had a higher prevalence of hypertension (9.9 vs. 3.7%; p = 0.002), tobacco consumption (10.7 vs. 3.7%; p = 0.001), and alcohol consumption (58.4 vs. 44.4%; p < 0.001). In contrast, abdominal obesity was more predominant in women than in men (23.1 vs. 2.7%; p < 0.001). This study suggests a sex-specific distribution of several modifiable cardiovascular risk factors in students at the University of Kikwit. Design of sex-specific, student-targeted health promotion programs may be warranted to reduce the prevalence of risk factors and the subsequent burden of cardiovascular diseases.

Sex Differences in High School Athletes' Knowledge of Sport-Related Concussion Symptoms and Reporting Behaviors.

Recent researchers have reported that athletes' knowledge of sport-related concussion (SRC) has increased but that athletes still lack knowledge of all the signs and symptoms of SRC. Understanding the signs and symptoms of SRC and the dangers of playing while symptomatic are critical to reporting behaviors in high school athletes. To examine sex differences in knowledge of SRC symptoms and reasons for not reporting a suspected SRC to an authoritative figure in high school athletes. Cross-sectional study. Survey. A total of 288 athletes across 7 sports (198 males [68.8%] and 90 females [31.2%]). A validated knowledge-of-SRC survey consisted of demographic questions, a list of 21 signs and symptoms of SRC, and reasons why athletes would not report their SRC. The independent variable was sex. Athlete knowledge of SRC symptoms was assessed by having participants identify the signs and symptoms of SRC from a list of 21 symptoms. Knowledge scores were calculated by summing the number of correct answers; scores ranged from 0 to 21, with a score closer to 21 representing greater knowledge. Reporting-behavior questions asked athletes to choose reasons why they decided not to report any possible SRC signs and symptoms to an authoritative figure. A sex difference in total SRC symptom knowledge was found (F286 = 4.97, P = .03, d = 0.26). Female high school athletes had more total SRC symptom knowledge (mean ± standard deviation = 15.06 ± 2.63; 95% confidence interval = 14.54, 15.57) than males (14.36 ± 2.76; 95% confidence interval = 13.97, 14.74). Chi-square tests identified significant relationships between sex and 8 different reasons for not reporting an SRC. High school males and females had similar SRC symptom knowledge; however, female athletes were more likely to report their concussive symptoms to an authoritative figure.

What do general practitioners know about ADHD? Attitudes and knowledge among first-contact gatekeepers: systematic narrative review.

BackgroundAttention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood disorder with international prevalence estimates of 5 % in childhood, yet significant evidence exists that far fewer children receive ADHD services. In many countries, ADHD is assessed and diagnosed in specialist mental health or neuro-developmental paediatric clinics, to which referral by General (Family) Practitioners (GPs) is required. In such ‘gatekeeper’ settings, where GPs act as a filter to diagnosis and treatment, GPs may either not recognise potential ADHD cases, or may be reluctant to refer. This study systematically reviews the literature regarding GPs’ views of ADHD in such settings.MethodsA search of nine major databases was conducted, with wide search parameters; 3776 records were initially retrieved. Studies were included if they were from settings where GPs are typically gatekeepers to ADHD services; if they addressed GPs’ ADHD attitudes and knowledge; if methods were clearly described; and if results for GPs were reported separately from those of other health professionals.ResultsFew studies specifically addressed GP attitudes to ADHD. Only 11 papers (10 studies), spanning 2000–2010, met inclusion criteria, predominantly from the UK, Europe and Australia. As studies varied methodologically, findings are reported as a thematic narrative, under the following themes: Recognition rate; ADHD controversy (medicalisation, stigma, labelling); Causes of ADHD; GPs and ADHD diagnosis; GPs and ADHD treatment; GP ADHD training and sources of information; and Age, sex differences in knowledge and attitudes.ConclusionsAcross times and settings, GPs practising in first-contact gatekeeper settings had mixed and often unhelpful attitudes regarding the validity of ADHD as a construct, the role of medication and how parenting contributed to presentation. A paucity of training was identified, alongside a reluctance of GPs to become involved in shared care practice. If access to services is to be improved for possible ADHD cases, there needs to be a focused and collaborative approach to training.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12875-016-0516-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The influence of item sampling on sex differences in knowledge tests

Few topics in psychology have generated as much controversy as sex differences in intelligence. For fluid intelligence, researchers emphasize the high overlap between the ability distributions of males and females, whereas research on sex differences in declarative knowledge often uncovers a male advantage. However, on the level of knowledge domains, a more nuanced picture emerged: while females perform better in health-related topics (e.g., aging, medicine), males outperform females in domains of natural sciences (e.g., engineering, physics). In this paper we show that sex differences vary substantially depending on item sampling. Analyses were based on a sample of n=3306 German high-school students (Grades 9 and 10) who worked on the 64 declarative knowledge items of the Berlin Test of Fluid and Crystallized Intelligence (BEFKI) assessing knowledge within three broad content domains (science, humanities, social studies). Using two strategies of item sampling—stepwise confirmatory factor analysis and ant colony optimization algorithm—we deliberately manipulate sex differences in multi-group structural equation models. Results show that sex differences considerably vary depending on the indicators drawn from the item pool. Furthermore, ant colony optimization outperforms the simple stepwise selection strategy since it can optimize several criteria simultaneously (model fit, reliability, and preset sex differences). Taken together, studies reporting sex differences in declarative knowledge fail to acknowledge item sampling issues. On a more general stance, handling item sampling hinges on profound considerations of the content of measures.

Lack of Sex Differences in Knowledge of, Attitudes About, and Behaviors Related to Substance Use in Adolescents in a Sample of High School Students in the Northeastern USA

As part of an ongoing investigation, data were collected on behaviors and attitudes about substance abuse and general knowledge about substances for high school students (N = 1,103) during the 2002-2003 and 2003-2004 academic years. In preliminary analyses no meaningful sex differences were found for type or frequency of use, attitudes about substance use, or knowledge about substances. Lack of meaningful sex differences were evident even when comparisons by sex group were made within this ethnic minority population as well as within school Grades 10, 11, and 12. It is suggested that being a boy or a girl may have little to do with the American middle-class adolescents' choice to use substances. Findings should be understood to suggest possible cohort effects.

Experiences of Longing in Norwegian and Swedish 4- and 5-Year-Old Children

Longing can be defined as a blend of the primary emotions of happiness and sadness. These primary emotions are experienced very early by children, and the meanings of the words happiness and sadness are also known by children early in their verbal development. To find out at what age children are able to understand and use the more developed concept of longing, the authors interviewed 74 preschoolers (4- and 5-year-olds) in Norway and Sweden about their experiences of longing. Chi-square analyses showed age and sex differences in knowledge of the concept, and some differences between categories of longing were also significant. Results showed that young children's ability to understand and use the concept of longing appears to be limited and that girls seem to mature earlier in this respect than boys do.

Sex differences in cobalamin (vitamin B 12 ) opinions of Swedish physicians

The aim of the study was to elucidate possible sex differences in knowledge, competence and attitudes behind decision-making on cobalamin-associated problems (vitamin B 12 ). The study was conducted by postal questionnaires to Swedish physicians in 1996-98. The participants were recruited by random sampling of general practitioners (1996, 1998), and a total sampling of geriatricians (1998). The overall response rate was 71%. The study group comprised 480 female physicians and 526 male physicians. The responses to 24 statements in the questionnaire were measured by means of visual analogue scales. Group differences were evaluated by medians and shapes of distributions. The female doctors appeared to value patient-related symptoms and signs more than male doctors. Conversely, male doctors relied on laboratory tests more than female doctors. As reflected by questionnaire answers, female doctors appeared to be more informed than male doctors on cobalamin-associated clinical problems. Group differences between the sexes were marginal from a numerical point of view. It is suggested that the statistical differences observed should be regarded as negligible until confirmed by further studies.

Trends in heterosexual tertiary students' knowledge of HIV and intentions to avoid people who might have HIV.

This study investigated trends in HIV knowledge and endorsement of social avoidance of people who might be infected with HIV. The respondents (n = 7387) were self-identified heterosexual students. Most of them (n = 6500) were first-year behavioural or biological sciences students from annual surveys (1988-1995) at Macquarie University. The others (n = 887) were from four biennial (1987-1993) random samples of all students below 30 years of age at the University of Sydney. Students at both campuses completed self-administered questionnaires. Nine items were used to compute Partner Distinction Scale scores which indicated whether students had accurate knowledge that HIV may be transmitted through specific sexual practices with either casual or regular partners. Eleven items contributed to a Social Avoidance Scale. At Macquarie, male students had more accurate knowledge than female students, [F(1, 6024) = 9.20, p < 0.003], but at Sydney there were no significant sex differences in knowledge. Male students endorsed greater social avoidance at both Macquarie, [F(1, 6421) = 195.57, p < 0.00005], and Sydney, [F(1, 881) = 32.41, p < 0.00005]. Multiple linear regression on social avoidance revealed a significant reduction in social avoidance over time, with more rapid decrease among male students. Whereas less social avoidance was partly attributable to better knowledge over time, it is concluded that the improved social climate towards those most affected by HIV is mainly due to a shift in cultural norms.

Sex differences in communication and the construction of HIV/AIDS

Abstract This paper reports analyses of sex differences in knowledge, attitudes, and behavior related to HIV/AIDS and communication about HIV I'AIDS in the heterosexual college population. Men and women differed in their assessments of risk to HIV infection for various behaviors; in each case women perceived greater risk. Women were more favorable than men regarding talking about AIDS and attitudes about condom use. Men reported a greater number of sexual partners for the previous five years than did women. Men, more often than women, appear to have changed their behavior in a direction of greater risk. Only two sex differences were found for prevention‐related behaviors. First, men more often reported having purchased a condom. However, no sex differences were found for actual condom use. Second, as reported in previous studies, women were more likely to engage in AIDS‐related talk with a sexual partner. Because of their many differences, men and women need to be targeted as separate audiences for HIV/AI...

Sex differences in route-learning

Past literature on map-learning tasks has generally inferred that males tend to use a geometric strategy, and females tend to use a landmark strategy to learn a map. However, none of the studies have controlled for possible effects of extra-map superior visual memory in females on their memory for landmarks, and few have probed the actual relation between accuracy of performance and geometric or landmark knowledge. This study investigated sex differences in strategies for route-learning, controlling for visual-item memory. All subjects (48 female, 49 male) were required to learn a route to criterion through a novel map. As expected, males made fewer errors and took fewer trials to reach criterion. Females remembered more landmarks both on and off the route than males, and superior memory for landmarks was not accounted for by a superior visual-item memory. Males outperformed females in knowledge of the Euclidean properties of the map. However, despite the pronounced sex differences in knowledge retained from the maps, both males' and females' performance was related to spatial ability rather than to landmark recall.

What Irish schoolchildren know about AIDS

AIDS in the Republic of Ireland has so far mainly been associated with intravenous drug use. However, because of growing public pressure to mount an AIDS campaign aimed at potentially vulnerable sub-groups, we conducted a survey of knowledge and attitudes related to AIDS among 891 Irish schoolchildren in the senior years of secondary school. Although virtually none of the children had received any classroom education on AIDS and no national education programme had been undertaken at the time of the survey, levels of knowledge were high among the pupils studied, and compared favourably with levels found using the same questionnaire among San Franciscan pupils. Higher levels of knowledge were found among urban pupils and, although some sex differences in knowledge emerged, there was no consistent pattern in these. No school surveyed showed sufficient misinformation to warrant a systematic education programme.

Sex differences in knowledge of occupational dimensions across four age levels

The purpose of the present study was to better understand the development of children's occupational knowledge, as assessed by their ability to give ratings to jobs along various dimensions that were similar to ratings given by adults, and to investigate differences in boys' and girls' ratings. Overall, younger students gave higher ratings to the jobs pictured than did older students. Also, females gave higher ratings to three of the four dimensions investigated. Girls rated traditionally female jobs higher on respect and service, while boys rated traditionally male jobs higher on respect and service. Both males and females agreed that more education would be required for the female jobs pictured, but that males would be paid more money for the male jobs pictured.

Sex Differences in Knowledge of Letter and Number Names in Kindergarten

A study of the learning of letter and number names prior to the onset of formal instruction in kindergarten indicated that there are sex differences not only in the rate of learning but in the components of learning. There is a tendency, reported earlier by Gates (1939), for all children to either know the names of most letters and numbers or know only a few. Further, boys had learned their number names at least as well as girls while girls knew significantly more letter names than did boys. These findings exemplify the importance of developmental factors in learning to read which should be taken into account in the teaching of beginning reading.

Sex differences in knowledge of psychology before and after the first course.

Sex differences in knowledge of psychology before and after the first course.