Social Well-being Of Individuals Research Articles

E053 The use of online platforms in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal disease

Abstract Background/Aims Persistent pain is a common feature of rheumatic diseases, and has a significant impact on the emotional, physical and social wellbeing of individuals. Despite pharmacological treatment for inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 10-20% have features suggestive of co-existing centralised pain. These patients have worse pain, mood and sleep despite DMARD therapy. Similar to fibromyalgia (FM), non-pharmacological treatments are likely to be useful for this problem. Evidence supports cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Unfortunately, access to services is poor for many people. This has driven the development of online treatment programmes and apps. The current study explores willingness of patients with rheumatic diseases to use online platforms in this context. Methods An observational cohort study of patients with a clinical diagnosis of either RA or FM were recruited from NHS outpatient clinics. Data collection was via the online platform Redcap. Analysis compared demographic and clinical features of those with past use of online platforms or apps for health purposes using Student’s t-test and chi squared tests. A similar comparison was conducted for future use of online platforms or apps. Results Of 343 patients 177(52%) FM, 166(48%) RA), 264 (77%) were female with mean (SD) age 48 (13.6). Past use of online platforms is summarised in Table 1. Significantly more patients with FM (70%) would be willing to try an online platform in future, compared to those with RA (30%). Those with future interest are more likely to be younger (mean age 46), have lower mood (mean PHQ-9 13), worse sleep (mean ISI 14.6) and less pain (mean VAS 6.6) compared to those who would not (mean age 60, PHQ-9 12, ISI 12.6 and VAS 7.0 respectively). Conclusion Those with FM are more likely to engage with online platforms or apps for health purposes than those with RA. In this analysis, users were more likely to be younger and experience more severe anxiety and depression but further work is needed to evaluate the contributing factors which will be essential when optimising the impact of online healthcare initiatives. Disclosure A.J.W. Wall: None. E. Kelleher: None. V. Wanigasekera: None. A. Irani (nee Soni): None.

Guidance To Build Mental Well-Being: The Role Of Guidance And Counseling

Guidance and counseling plays a crucial role in helping individuals overcome various psychological and emotional problems in contemporary society. The need for these services is increasingly urgent, not only as a response to psychological crises, but also as an effort to prevent and build sustainable mental well-being. Research shows that guidance and counseling is effective in helping individuals overcome stress, anxiety, depression, as well as develop adaptive and problem-solving skills necessary in facing life's challenges. Moreover, the importance of this service lies not only in its individual dimension, but also in its contribution to overall public health. Through holistic and coordinated services, guidance and counseling can help reduce the burden of mental illness, increase productivity, and strengthen social and support networks. However, guidance and counseling practitioners are faced with new challenges and rapidly evolving opportunities, such as the application of technology in online counseling practices. In addition, social and cultural contexts play an important role in guidance and counseling practice, making the integration of cross-cultural perspectives an urgent necessity. In response to the evolving challenges and opportunities, guidance and counseling practitioners need to strengthen their competencies through continuous education, training, and professional development. New research and innovations in the fields of neuroscience, positive psychology, and technology-based therapies also have a significant impact on guidance and counseling, so practitioners must continue to adapt to the latest scientific developments. In an era where stress and life pressure are on the rise, a proactive approach in promoting mental wellbeing is becoming increasingly urgent. Therefore, guidance and counseling should not only focus on addressing problems, but also on prevention and building adaptive skills that can improve the overall quality of life. All in all, it can be concluded that guidance and counseling has a very important role in supporting the mental and social well-being of individuals as well as society at large.

Narrative review on artificially intelligent olfaction in halitosis.

Halitosis, commonly known as oral malodor, is a multifactorial health concern that significantly impacts the psychological and social well-being of individuals. It is the third most frequent reason for individuals to seek dental treatment, after dental caries and periodontal diseases. For an in-depth exploration of the topic of halitosis, an extensive literature review was conducted. The review focused on articles published in peer-reviewed journals and only those written in the English language were considered. The search for relevant literature began by employing subject headings such as 'halitosis, oral malodor, volatile sulfur compounds, artificial intelligence, and olfaction' in databases such as PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Additionally, a thorough hand search of references was conducted to ensure the comprehensiveness of the review. After amalgamating the search outcomes, a comprehensive analysis revealed the existence of precisely 134 full-text articles that bore relevance to the study. Abstracts and editorial letters were excluded from this study, and almost 50% of the full-text articles were deemed immaterial to dental practice. Out of the remaining articles, precisely 54 full-text articles were employed in this review. As primary healthcare providers, dentists are responsible for diagnosing and treating oral issues that may contribute to the development of halitosis. To effectively manage this condition, dentists must educate their patients about the underlying causes of halitosis, as well as proper oral hygiene practices such as tongue cleaning, flossing, and selecting appropriate mouthwash and toothpaste. This narrative review summarises all possible AI olfaction in halitosis.

VISION LOSS AND PSYCHOSOCIAL FUNCTIONING: WHAT’S THE CONNECTION?

Abstract This study assessed the associations between vision impairment (VI) and psychological and social function in older adults. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of the National Health and Aging Trends Study, a nationally representative sample of Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 years and older. VI was measured using categorical and continuous scales. Depression and anxiety symptoms were assessed via the Patient Health Questionnaire for Depression and Anxiety (PHQ-4) questionnaire. Social isolation and severe social isolation were defined based on responses to questions on living arrangement, frequency of communication with others, and participation in activities. Results showed that depressive symptoms, social isolation, and severe social isolation were more prevalent in adults with any objective VI measure compared to those without impairment. In adjusted models, objective vision measures were not associated with higher odds of depression or anxiety symptoms, though both outcomes were strongly associated with self-reported VI (OR: 1.82 [95% CI: 1.27 – 2.60], OR: 1.81 [95% CI: 1.30 – 2.53], respectively). In contrast, worse distance and near acuity (per 0.1 logMAR), and worse contrast sensitivity (per 0.1 logCS units) were associated with higher risk of being severely socially isolated (RRR: 3.79 [95% CI: 1.13 – 12.78], 3.26 [95% CI: 1.16 - 9.17], 2.82 [95% CI: 1.11 – 7.18], respectively), however, no associations were found with self-reported VI. This study demonstrates that worse vision is associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and social isolation among older US adults. Approaches are needed to enhance the psychological and social well-being of individuals with VI.

LAND OF FIRE, HEARTS OF ICE: PSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF THE INVOLUNTARY CHILDLESSNESS IN AZERBAIJAN

Involuntary childlessness is a common and distressing problem affecting millions of couples worldwide. This phenomenon can have a profound impact on the psychological, emotional, and social well-being of individuals and couples, leading to feelings of grief, shame, and social isolation. This study aims to examine the psychological factors related to involuntary childlessness in Azerbaijan specifically. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Proquest, Cochrane Library, Cumulative Index to Nursing, and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) and Scopus were used as well as hand searching. Grey literature was searched using Google and Google Scholar, and the snowballing method was used to identify additional sources. The findings underscore the importance of integrating psychological care into fertility treatment programs and training medical professionals to provide holistic care to patients undergoing fertility treatment. To address the psychological impact of infertility, it is recommended that medical education, psychological services, and medical-psychological examination and treatment procedures be implemented at a national level. Further research should also be conducted to determine the effectiveness of psychotherapy for infertility-related issues, and appropriate psychosocial rehabilitation plans should be developed and implemented based on the results.<p> </p><p><strong> Article visualizations:</strong></p><p><img src="/-counters-/soc/0011/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /></p>

Mass drug administration in neglected tropical diseases: beyond elimination

Mass drug administration in neglected tropical diseases: beyond elimination

Undergoing radical treatment for prostate cancer and its impact on wellbeing: A qualitative study exploring men's experiences.

Quality of life in prostate cancer survivorship is becoming increasingly important, with mental and social wellbeing recognised as key components. However, limited global evaluation of psychosocial challenges experienced after treatment exists. Therefore, we aimed to explore the lived experiences of men who underwent radical treatment, and its psychosocial impact. This qualitative study was conducted using 19 men who had undergone radical treatment (prostatectomy or radiotherapy) for their cancer. Semi-structured interviews were conducted exploring lived experiences of men after treatment. A Structured thematic analysis of collected data was undertaken, with an inductive co-construction of themes through the lens of the biopsychosocial model. Themes generated were considered within a psychological, social, and physical wellbeing framework. An initial knowledge gap meant mental wellbeing was strongly impacted initially leading to a 'Diagnostic Blow and the Search for Clarity'. Doubt over individuals' future resulted in 'An Uncertain Future' in many men. Once treatment was completed a 'Reflective journey' began, with men considering their outcomes and decisions made. Social wellbeing was also impacted with many identifying the 'Emotional Repercussions' on their relationships and the impact their diagnosis had on their partner and family. Many subsequently sought to increase their support through 'The Social Network and Advocacy', while physical changes led to an increased need for 'Social Planning'. Finally, physical wellbeing was highlighted by a continual acknowledgement of the 'Natural process of ageing' leading to a reluctancy to seek help, whilst simultaneously attempting to improve existing health via 'The Health Kick'. Radical treatments have a considerable impact on mental and social wellbeing of individuals. Anxiety after diagnosis and significant uncertainty over individual futures exist, with physical complications of treatment leading to social repercussions. Future research should aim to identify forms of support to improve quality of life of these men.

S01-3 Determining the social and economic value of football in England

BackgroundIn 2015 the Department of Culture, Media and Sport in England set out its new guidelines to redefine what success in sport means. This new focus on the social impact of sport including physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, individual development and social and community development, meant that any funding decisions will be made based on the outcomes that the sporting body can deliver. The Football Association have therefore begun a detailed assessment of the social and economic value of football in England.MethodsUsing national participation surveys of approximately 9000 individuals aged 16-75, we calculated the association between regular football participation and several health and social outcomes. This was combined with a review of published studies through to December 2019 examining the relationship between football, physical activity and disease risk outcomes across the life-course. This evidence base was then modelled with the estimated national football participation rate and the latest figures on national disease prevalence across 10 different diseases, to quantify the true value of football to society.ResultsPreliminary results have shown that football participation contributes to more than £10 billion to society each year across England. Team sport participants also reported significantly higher levels of happiness, confidence and trust compared to individuals who played no sport, or just individual sport. This impact also varies depending on the demographic groups including women, children and low-socioeconomic groups.ConclusionsThis analysis shows the large contribution of grassroots football to the nation's economy and to health and social wellbeing of individuals and communities. Moreover, it has proven the unique benefits of team sport participation and shown to policymakers which type of sports and activities contribute the most value to society.

The co-production of a workplace health promotion program: expected benefits, contested boundaries

Workplace health promotion (WHP) are often depicted as an opportunity for pursuing a better and broader well-being condition under the assumption that working environments affect the physical, mental, and social well-being of individuals who spend large proportion of waking hours at work. While most empirical studies provided medical evidence to the effectiveness of WHP programs, scholars question the instrumental purposes of these programs founded on the belief that “healthy workers are better workers”. Little is known, for instance, about the design of WHP programs and their acceptance by workers. Our study addresses this gap, analyzing the co-production of a WHP program in an Italian research institute promoted by the healthcare authority, the local government and the national center for prevention and security in the workplaces. To this aim, we adopt the notion of boundary object investigate how different stakeholders reclaim to take part and being involved in this process, re-shaping their goals and their boundaries and why a WHP program or parts of it may be rejected or re-negotiated by its recipients. Our analysis reveals how each stakeholder contributes to re-shape the WHP program which emerges as the modular product of the composition of each matter of concern. Most notably, the strong rooting in a clinical perspective and the original focus on only workers at risk is gradually flanked by initiatives to involve all employees. Moreover, workers draw a line as for the legitimacy of employers’ intervention in the personal sphere of health promotion, embracing interventions addressing diet and physical activity while rejecting measures targeting smoking and alcohol consumption.

Perception of Substance Use among In-School Adolescents and Key Informants in Gombe State, Nigeria

Background: Substance use has gradually become a global problem resulting in negative effect on the physical, mental and social wellbeing of individuals. This study aimed to determine the perception of adolescents and key informants on substance and illicit drug use in order to control this menace.Methods: A cross-sectional study design employing qualitative method of data collection. Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted. All data generated were collated and analysed using content analysis. Results: The key informants reported that peer influence, male sex and having broken homes were factors that were responsible for substance use. Adolescents also reported that easy access to these substances, the zeal to perform better in school, ability to have more fruitful relationships and ability to confront their parents were some of the reasons they engaged in substance use. Conclusion: This study has therefore implied that adolescents in school have easy access to and engage in substances despite being aware of the complications as it is mostly done to address their social needs.Recommendation: It is therefore recommended that periodic mental health screening should be conducted for adolescents with the support of their parents and guardians in line with school health services in order to identify and manage those with mental problems that could predispose them to use of substances.

Interventions Targeting the Wellbeing of Migrant Youths: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Migration can affect the physical, mental, emotional, and social wellbeing of individuals and families. This study provides an overview of interventions aimed at improving the wellbeing of young migrants. It identifies knowledge gaps and provides direction for future research. The review process comprises a systematic search of six academic databases, and websites for relevant peer-reviewed and gray literature on the topic. A total of 2,911 records were identified, of which 28 studies met our eligibility criteria for inclusion. Thematic analysis comprised of the description of study characteristics and outcome themes. EPHPP and CASP tools were utilized to assess the methodological quality of studies. The review findings indicate a number of approaches with varying effectivity, however, arts, music, and sports programs showed good results for youth across all migrant groups. Our findings call for further and more high-quality evaluation research, with longitudinal designs that ideally include stakeholder collaboration.

Impacts of COVID-19 pandemic on urban park visitation: a global analysis

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in over 33 million confirmed cases and over 1 million deaths globally, as of 1 October 2020. During the lockdown and restrictions placed on public activities and gatherings, green spaces have become one of the only sources of resilience amidst the coronavirus pandemic, in part because of their positive effects on psychological, physical and social cohesion and spiritual wellness. This study analyzes the impacts of COVID-19 and government response policies to the pandemic on park visitation at global, regional and national levels and assesses the importance of parks during this global pandemic. The data we collected primarily from Google’s Community Mobility Reports and the Oxford Coronavirus Government Response Tracker. The results for most countries included in the analysis show that park visitation has increased since February 16th, 2020 compared to visitor numbers prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrictions on social gathering, movement, and the closure of workplace and indoor recreational places, are correlated with more visits to parks. Stay-at-home restrictions and government stringency index are negatively associated with park visits at a global scale. Demand from residents for parks and outdoor green spaces has increased since the outbreak began, and highlights the important role and benefits provided by parks, especially urban and community parks, under the COVID-19 pandemic. We provide recommendations for park managers and other decision-makers in terms of park management and planning during health crises, as well as for park design and development. In particular, parks could be utilized during pandemics to increase the physical and mental health and social well-being of individuals.

Prevalence and pattern of risky sexual behavior among undergraduates in Benin City, Nigeria

Abstract Background Risky Sexual Behaviours (RSB) describe sexual activities that increase the probability of experiencing negative consequences in the physical, psychological and social wellbeing of individuals. Research has documented an association between risky sexual behaviour and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence and pattern of RSB among undergraduates in Benin City, Nigeria. Methods A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among undergraduate students in Benin City, Nigeria. The University of Benin is one of Nigeria's first generation federal universities with about 75,000 students. A minimum sample size of 689 was calculated using the appropriate formulae for a descriptive study. Respondents were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using a pre-tested structured self-administered questionnaire adapted from the illustrative questionnaire for interviews-surveys with young people. Data analysis was carried out using IBM SPSS version 22.0 software. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results A total of 690 undergraduates with a mean age (SD) of 20.42 ± 2.7 years and a male: female ratio of 1:1.3 participated in this study. Two hundred and eight respondents (30.1%) were sexually active. Of these, 47 (24.0%) respondents admitted to have multiple sexual partners, 36 (23.5%) cross-generational sex, 29 (14.8%) troilism, 29 (14.8%) transactional sex, 22 (11.2%) homosexualism, and non-vaginal sex, 22 (11.2%). Overall, 196 (38.5%) of the respondents engaged in RSBs. Age group (p < 0.001), sex (p < 0.001), and residing off-campus (p = 0.047) were significantly associated with RSBs. Conclusions RSB in the studied population was high and having multiple sexual partners was the most reported type of RSB. Health interventions targeted at this age group are important for current and future sexual health. Key messages The prevalence of risky sexual behaviour is high among young persons. Health interventions targeted at this age group are important for current and future sexual health of young persons.

Effectiveness of permanent supportive housing and income assistance interventions for homeless individuals in high-income countries: a systematic review

Permanent supportive housing and income assistance are valuable interventions for homeless individuals. Homelessness can reduce physical and social wellbeing, presenting public health risks for infectious diseases, disability, and death. We did a systematic review, meta-analysis, and narrative synthesis to investigate the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of permanent supportive housing and income interventions on the health and social wellbeing of individuals who are homeless in high-income countries. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Epistemonikos, NIHR-HTA, NHS EED, DARE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from database inception to Feb 10, 2020, for studies on permanent supportive housing and income interventions for homeless populations. We included only randomised controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and cost-effectiveness studies from high-income countries that reported at least one outcome of interest (housing stability, mental health, quality of life, substance use, hospital admission, earned income, or employment). We screened studies using a standardised data collection form and pooled data from published studies. We synthesised results using random effects meta-analysis and narrative synthesis. We assessed certainty of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach. Our search identified 15 908 citations, of which 72 articles were included for analysis (15 studies on permanent supportive housing across 41 publications, ten studies on income interventions across 15 publications, and 21 publications on cost or cost-effectiveness). Permanent supportive housing interventions increased long-term (6 year) housing stability for participants with moderate support needs (one study; rate ratio [RR] 1·13 [95% CI 1·01-1·26]) and high support needs (RR 1·42 [1·19-1·69]) when compared with usual care. Permanent supportive housing had no measurable effect on the severity of psychiatric symptoms (ten studies), substance use (nine studies), income (two studies), or employment outcomes (one study) when compared with usual social services. Income interventions, particularly housing subsidies with case management, showed long-term improvements in the number of days stably housed (one study; mean difference at 3 years between intervention and usual services 8·58 days; p<0·004), whereas the effects on mental health and employment outcomes were unclear. Permanent supportive housing and income assistance interventions were effective in reducing homelessness and achieving housing stability. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of housing and income interventions on physical and mental health, substance use, and quality-of-life outcomes. Inner City Health Associates.

A RELAÇÃO DA QUALIDADE DE VIDA ENTRE RESPIRADORES BUCAIS, ORONASAIS E NASAIS

The present study aimed to verify the relationship between quality of life and respiratory its influence on the physical, emotional and social well-being of individuals who present oral, oronasal and nasal breathing. 30 participants, of both sexes, were investigated: 15 oral and oronasal breathers, 15 nasal breathers, between 13 and 60 years old. A valid quality of life protocol - the World Health Organization quality Life - WHOQOL-BREF (WHOQ) Portuguese version was used. the existence of association between the groups studied in social and physical domains, with values (p &lt;0.05) arbitrated, where mean of oral or nasal breath scores, was nasal respirator has better quality of life between domains. The study revealed that oral and oronasal breathers have worse quality of life than nasal breathers in physical and social aspects.

The Contractual Liability of Deputy (Contract) in Electronic Contracts

The Therapeutic Role of Forgiveness in Restorative Justice Obinna Paschal Ezeihuoma Abstract The criminal justice system does not currently emphasize the role of forgiveness in the application of justice. Criminal justice procedures and practices have been dominated by the punitive preference of the state, whose interest is traditionally hinged on deterrence, incapacitation, and retributive justice The purpose of this research is to draw upon contemporary empirical data and restorative practices dialogues within criminal justice procedures and other process-based forgiveness interventions models to examine how forgiveness espouse therapeutic outcomes. Current study used content cum secondary analyses and qualitative method to explore the linkages between the idea of restorative justice dialogue and other existing scholarships in other fields of endeavor. The result shows that forgiveness plays a therapeutic role in the emotional and social well-being of individuals and communities that are victimized by crime. By incorporating restorative justice processes in the criminal justice system, a psychotherapeutic pathway is created at the individual level which makes restorative justice a viable alternative to other procedures and practices. Full Text: PDF DOI: 10.15640/jlcj.v6n1a4

Health-Related Quality of Life Measurement

Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) assesses the impact of illnesses on the physical, mental and social well-being of individuals and its importance is increasingly recognized [1]. Some instruments are intended for general use, irrespective of illness and the condition of the patient. The generic instruments may often be applicable to healthy people too.

Money and Finance: Ethical Considerations

Financial institutions and markets occupy a key place in the economic and social well-being of individuals, companies and societies but, if they are not managed adequately, this can have important consequences, also in ethical terms. This work is a simple and brief explanation of the ethical problems posed by institutions, markets and financial products.

Welfare aziendale e salute organizzativa: quale benessere e per chi?

The study addresses the topic of organizational health, by focusing on the role of corporate welfare. The economic and social changes and the new risks deriving from public welfare and from the increase of stress and insecurity conditions, both at European and national level, makes the corporate welfare a relevant challenge for the social wellbeing. In details, it can improve the psychophysical and social well-being of individuals and working communities as well as of the territories where firms operate. Corporate welfare can be considered as an emerging strategy where gender represents a crucial analytic category for reinterpreting the topic of occupational health and safety.

Psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics among sudanese high school students.

Objective: Dental aesthetics essential part of facial attractiveness, plays a vital role in the social as well as the psychological well being of individuals. This study aimed to assess the level of dental aesthetics by the self-rated Aesthetic Component (AC) of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) and the psychosocial impact of dental aesthetics using the ‘Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire’ (PIDAQ). Material Methods: A total of 192 high school students (13-16 years old), genders equally participated in the study and completed a modified version of the ‘Psychosocial Impact of Dental Aesthetics Questionnaire’ (PIDAQ). Dental aesthetics were assessed by the IOTN Aesthetic Component (self-rated IOTN-AC). The data was processed and analyzed using computer software program “SPSS” (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 17. T-test has been used, P-value of less than 0.05 was considered as significance. Results: All the variables of the PIDAQ showed a significant difference with the groups of the IOTN-AC (P-value &lt; 0.05). Inter-gender significant difference was found among the students. Conclusion: Self-perceived dental aesthetics has a strong influence on the psychological as well as the social wellbeing of individuals. Therefore self-perception of dental aesthetics maybe an important key in deciding the orthodontic treatment need.Keywords: Dental aesthetics; Psychosocial impact; Malocclusion; IOTN; Students.