Well-being Of Population Research Articles

Registered Nurse-Led Interdisciplinary Care: A Single Case Study of a Young Woman With Intellectual Disability and Chronic and Complex Health Problems.

To describe how specialised models of registered nurse-led care and support can play a vital role in the health and quality of life of someone with intellectual disability and multiple chronic and complex health problems. Single instrumental case study. Data collection occurred between March and August 2023, and included interviews with parents, historical case files, descriptions of the nurse-led model of care and a list of the daily registered nurse-led interventions. The evidence presented strongly support the positive impact a nurse-led model of care can have for persons with profound disability and complex health conditions, and their families. The improved quality of life observed in this project underscores the significant role nurses play in enhancing the well-being of this vulnerable population. Further research on a larger scale should be completed to create a robust foundation of a specialised, nurse-led model of care for individuals with profound disability and complex health conditions. There is room for funded intermediate models of care as the health system cannot be expected, and nor is it appropriate, to provide ongoing care for all people with intellectual disability. This study adhered to the COREQ guidelines for qualitative research. No patient or public contribution.

ENFORCEMENTS INFRASTRUCTURE RESILIENCE INDEX OF THE WATER AND SANITATION SECTORS TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN COASTAL CITIES

Climate change (CC) is a significant global environmental issue that poses severe consequences, particularly on agricultural productivity, lifestyle, infrastructure, and overall population well-being. These impacts are projected to vary among different countries. The primary concern of this research is that infrastructure networks, which both contribute to the causes of climate change and are essential for its resilience, would be more susceptible to its physical impacts, notably in the water and drainage sector. The research aims to develop a model for measuring the climate change resilience index for the water and drainage sector in coastal cities. Through an inductive approach to study climate change and its risks and the resilient infrastructure to climate change and its principles, then analysing structural and administrative adaptation measures, extracting structural, administrative, and emergency plans, then assessing the extent of adopting the principles of planning and confronting climate change, developing a measurement index, then applying it to New York, Melbourne, and Thessaloniki, and finally extracting the conclusions.

RETROFITTING GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE IN KUALA LUMPUR: A DOCUMENT ANALYSIS OF POLICY GAPS AND CLIMATE RESILIENCE

Urban green spaces play a critical role in enhancing environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and the well-being of urban populations. However, the fragmentation of green spaces in Kuala Lumpur presents significant challenges to sustainable urban planning and climate adaptation efforts. This study examines the policy gaps that hinder the effective integration of green infrastructure into Kuala Lumpur’s urban planning framework. A qualitative document analysis is conducted to assess national policies, planning guidelines, and international best practices related to green infrastructure and climate resilience. The findings reveal that while Malaysia’s policies accentuate the provision of green spaces, they lack comprehensive enforcement mechanisms, leading to inconsistencies in green infrastructure implementation. Key challenges include policy fragmentation, decentralised governance, inadequate financial incentives, and the absence of explicit regulatory frameworks supporting green infrastructure retrofitting. By analysing international models, such as the United Kingdom’s Green Infrastructure Standards and Singapore’s Green Plan 2030, this study identifies policy strategies that could enhance Malaysia’s urban resilience. The study concludes that a systematic retrofitting framework is required to address the existing policy gaps and ensure the strategic integration of green infrastructure into urban development. It recommends adopting international best practices, strengthening regulatory enforcement, and fostering cross-sectoral collaboration to enhance climate adaptation and ecological connectivity. These measures are essential for improving urban sustainability and mitigating the adverse effects of rapid urbanisation and climate change in Kuala Lumpur.

Navigating water crisis, cholera, and refugee context: Lessons from Nakivale refugee settlement, Isingiro District, Uganda.

Inadequate safe water supply and cholera outbreaks are significant contributors to ill health in displaced populations, exacerbating the vulnerability of refugees fleeing conflicts. In November 2021, the Nakivale Refugee Settlement faced a cholera outbreak and water scarcity, putting displaced persons at risk of ill health. This study aimed to investigate the lessons learned from this incident and identify pathways to prevent future outbreaks, ultimately safeguarding the lives and well-being of vulnerable populations. A descriptive cross-sectional study analysed epidemiological data from the Uganda Ministry of Health, investigating the cholera outbreak among refugees in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Isingiro district, from November 3rd to December 2nd, 2021. The outbreak affected 173 refugees, primarily in Nyarugugu B and C villages, with consumption of contaminated lake water identified as the likely cause. Inadequate access to clean water and sanitation facilities exacerbated the outbreak, which disproportionately affected individuals aged 10-19 years (30.1%) and females (65%). Promotion of safe water, sanitation, and oral cholera vaccination campaigns effectively controlled the outbreak. This study highlights the critical importance of providing refugees with access to safe water and sanitation infrastructure to prevent cholera outbreaks. Timely implementation of oral cholera vaccination campaigns and enhanced water management systems are crucial to preventing future outbreaks in refugee settlements.

Assessing Population Well-Being in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive National Survey Using the WHO-05 Index and Self-Rated Health Metrics

Introduction: The well-being of populations is crucial for understanding nations’ public health and progress. With its ongoing transformation and development objectives, Saudi Arabia emphasizes its residents’ quality of life and well-being. Recent surveys and health indicators have underlined the nation’s focus on enhancing population well-being. Aim: This study aimed to assess the overall level of well-being of the population living in Saudi Arabia using the WHO-5 index and self-rated health (SRH) metrics. Subject and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among thirty-nine thousand five hundred and sixty-two people from the general population in Saudi Arabia, citizens and residents, including all adult age groups (>18 years) and both genders. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to the Saudi adult population using an online survey. The questionnaire includes socio-demographic characteristics, the five-item Well-Being Index (WHO-5), and the self-rated health status. Results: Based on SRH, 77.4% were considered a healthy group. Male gender participants who had a better education were more likely to report a favorable SRH. According to WHO-5, poor well-being was seen in 26% of the population, and the rest had good well-being (74%). Independent predictors for good well-being include increasing age and educational level and being unemployed. Interestingly, we found a positive significant correlation between SRH and WHO-5 scores (r = 0.371; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Poor well-being was common among the general population. Independent risk factors for poor well-being include female gender and Saudi nationality, while increasing age, male gender, and higher education were significant predictors of healthy SRH. More longitudinal studies are needed to extract more data on this nation’s growing prevalence of poor self-rated health status.

Exploring urban–rural inequities in older adults life expectancy: a case study in Zhejiang, China for health equity

This study investigates the inequities in life expectancy among individuals aged 65 and above in urban and rural areas of Zhejiang Province, China, with a primary focus on promoting health equity among the older adults population. The objective is to analyze the trends and factors contributing to the urban–rural gap in life expectancy and to propose strategies for reducing this disparity. Data from the 2010 and 2020 statistical records and census data were analyzed using cohort life tables and gray correlation analysis. Results indicate an overall increase in life expectancy among the older adults, with a more pronounced improvement in rural areas, thereby narrowing the urban–rural gap from 1.53 years in 2010 to 1 year in 2020. Income inequality emerges as the primary factor influencing life expectancy, followed by educational attainment, with variations across different age groups and gender. This underscores the importance of tailored interventions that consider the specific needs of older adults individuals in diverse geographical areas and age brackets to extend life expectancy and promote health equity. By tackling these unfair differences, health equity can be ensured and the overall well-being of the older population in both urban and rural areas can be improved.

Association between sarcopenia components and depressed mood varies by sex among community-dwelling older adults from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study

This cross-sectional study investigated the association between sarcopenia components and depressed mood in community-dwelling adults aged 70–84 years from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study. Depressed mood was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale short form. Logistic regression was used to examine sex-specific associations between sarcopenia components and depressed mood. Among 1,913 participants (mean age: 75.9 years, 49.0% women), 12.2% and 23.6% had depressed mood and sarcopenia, respectively. Sarcopenia prevalence increased among individuals with depressed mood in both sexes (men: P < 0.001; women: P = 0.016). Severe sarcopenia (men: OR, 3.620; 95% CI, 1.634−8.022; women OR, 3.332; 95% CI, 1.689−6.574) and concurrent low muscle strength and physical performance (men: OR, 3.660; 95% CI, 1.541−8.691; women: OR, 2.333; 95% CI, 1.294−4.206) correlated with depressed mood across sexes. The co-occurrence of low muscle mass and muscle strength (OR, 2.451; 95% CI, 1.007−5.964) was associated with depressed mood in men, whereas low physical performance (OR, 2.007; 95% CI, 1.275−3.160) and the coexistence of low muscle mass and physical performance (OR, 1.804; 95% CI, 1.003–3.248) correlated with depressed mood in women. Sarcopenia and depressed mood were significantly associated among older adults, underscoring the need to account for sex-specific differences in sarcopenia components when evaluating mental health outcomes to tailor interventions targeting sarcopenia and improve the mental well-being of aging populations.

Socio-Healthcare for Older People in the Mediterranean Basin: An Integrative Review and Quality Appraisal.

The aging Mediterranean Basin population presents complex challenges for healthcare systems, which require innovative care approaches. The study aimed to critically assess 19 socio-healthcare practices in the Mediterranean Basin that target the elderly population by analyzing their theoretical foundations, integration of care services, ethical considerations, gender-specific approaches, and use of technology. An integrative literature review was conducted using a structured methodology. Diverse sources across multiple languages were searched, with the inclusion criteria focusing on the alignment of socio-healthcare practices with the components of the nursing metaparadigm, the incorporation of transversal values, and relevance to the elderly population. The socio-healthcare practices exhibited common themes, such as person-centered care, interdisciplinary collaboration, and incorporation of technology for coordinated care delivery. Ethical principles of autonomy, dignity, and respect were central, with some socio-healthcare practices addressing gender-specific care needs. Evidence-based findings emphasized holistic care, integration, ethics, and innovation in elderly socio-healthcare. New eldercare frameworks should integrate these aspects, which offer a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex needs of elderly patients. Managers should design systems prioritizing patient well-being, whereas policymakers should develop equitable and high-quality care policies that collectively improve the well-being of the elderly population in the Mediterranean Basin.

Evolution of Spanish population well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the COSMO-Spain study

Evolution of Spanish population well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the COSMO-Spain study

The Nonlinearity Between The Economic Growth, International Economy And Income Inequality Using Method Of Moments Quantile Regression

The relationship between inequality, economic growth, and the international economy is one of the most studied topics and is seen as a major problem to be solved. What is new is that researchers and policymakers have shifted their attention to divisible inequality at levels of its value. In this context, our article contributes to examining the link between inequality and economic growth by taking into account the international economic relations of three panels of countries grouped according to their income levels during the period 1990–2020. The study used a method of moments quantile regression to examine these variables at different levels of inequality. The estimates yielded the following findings: There were that disparities between various quantiles in each of the three panels' countries (HIC, MIC, and LIC) were influenced differently by the international economy, economic growth, and financial development. In order to solve inequality based on financial development, economic growth, or/and international economic variables, policymakers can benefit greatly from our findings, which have a number of implications. Therefore, it is crucial from an economic policy perspective because they offer empirical support for the distributional effects of FDI: Governments can use foreign direct investment (FDI) to improve population wellbeing and reduce inequality.

Subjective Assessment of Sleep Quality, Prevalence and Determinants of Sleep Disorders among Students in Health Science in Burkina Faso, Sub-Saharan Africa

Background: Sleep is crucial for both mental and physical well-being of the general population. Various factors can influence sleep quality and induce sleep disorders in students, a population that is insufficiently studied in the context of Burkina Faso. Objective: To assess sleep quality and determine the prevalence and factors associated with sleep disorders among students at the “Institut Supérieur des Sciences de la Santé” (INSSA) in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso.Method: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study among INSSA students during from 11th April to 30th July 2023. Self-completed questionnaires based on the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), the sleep diary and the Epworth sleepiness scale were used.Results: A total of 406 students with a mean age of 21.9±1.7 years and a sex ratio of 1.05 were included. Sleep quality was poor (PSQI score &gt;5) in 79.80% of the students, 50.49% had sleep disorders: insomnia (35.96%), daytime sleepiness (17.98%), obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndromes (5.42%). The main determinants of these sleep disorders were age&lt;22 years, female gender, BMI&gt;25 kg/m2, telephone and reading at bedtime, coffee, tea, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and nocturnal disturbance (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The prevalence of poor quality sleep and sleep disorders is high among health sciences students, with many factors associated with sleep disorders.

Esports as Senior Citizen Welfare: Current Trends and Roles

OBJECTIVES This study aims to explore how Esports can serve as a form of welfare for the senior generation, focusing on its impact on their cultural, recreational, and health-related well-being.METHODS A review of literature and case studies on Esports participation among senior citizens was conducted. Domestic and international examples were analyzed to identify potential benefits and challenges.RESULTS Findings indicate that Esports can enhance social participation, cognitive engagement, and recreational satisfaction for seniors. The generational familiarity with digital technology supports the integration of Esports into senior welfare programs.CONCLUSIONS Esports has the potential to become a valuable tool for improving the cultural and recreational welfare of the senior population. As seniors increasingly embrace digital lifestyles, Esports initiatives tailored to their needs could contribute to their overall well-being.

Dimensional structure of the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire and Association with adverse childhood experiences in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator

Illness perceptions (IP), as measured by the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ), and adverse childhood experiences (ACE) have been shown to affect the physical and psychological well-being in different patient populations. However, little is known about IP and ACE in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD). Our objectives were to investigate the dimensional structure and to evaluate correlates of the BIPQ in ICD patients. 423 patients with an ICD were prospectively recruited. We conducted a principal component analysis to determine the dimensional structure of the BIPQ. Associations between ACE, other sociodemographic and clinical variables, and IP were analysed using a multivariable linear regression. We identified a two-factor structure (I = Consequences, II = Control) of the BIPQ. Among others, a higher number of ICD shocks in the past (0.21, 95% CI = 0.01–0.41, p = 0.036), low physical activity (-2.16, 95% CI = -4.37 to -0.37, p = 0.045), more frequent ACE (0.56, 95% CI = 0.08–1.22, p = 0.030), ICD shock-related concerns (0.75, 95% CI 0.62–0.89, p < 0.001), and primary ICD indication (-2.29, 95% CI -4.47 to -0.11, p = 0.039) were significantly associated with more threatening IP. The identification of those variables might lead to more precise interventions targeting maladaptive IP in this vulnerable patient population.

Social activities and different intensities of physical activity among older adults in China: a population-based cohort study

IntroductionPopulation aging is an inevitable consequence of demographic transition and an important issue for human society in the 21st century. Physical activity is widely recognized as a critical factor for improving health, yet the specific impact of different intensities of physical activity on the health of older adults remains underexplored.MethodsThis study addresses this gap by analyzing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS), a nationally representative survey of a cohort of Chinese people (aged ≥45 years) from 150 counties or districts and 450 villages or urban communities across 28 provinces, who were selected by use of multistage stratified probability-proportionate-to-size sampling. The study employed a regression model aiming to analyse the effect of different intensities of physical activity on the health level of the elder adults.ResultsThe results demonstrate that physical activity at all intensity levels—high, moderate, and low—significantly improves the health of older adults, with correlation coefficients of −0.245 (p &amp;lt; 0.01), −0.080 (p &amp;lt; 0.05), and −0.077 (p &amp;lt; 0.10), respectively. Among these, high-intensity physical activity is the most effective in enhancing health outcomes. The result further identifies social activities as a mediating factor in this relationship. Moreover, high-intensity exercise proves to be more beneficial for older adults residing in rural areas compared to their urban counterparts.DiscussionThis study demonstrates that engagement in physical activity at all intensity levels—high, moderate, and low—substantially enhances the health of older adults, with high-intensity physical activity demonstrating the most significant impact on health outcomes. Furthermore, the research identifies social activities as a mediating factor in this relationship, highlighting the importance of social engagement in conjunction with physical activity. This suggests that interventions promoting both physical activity and social interaction can be particularly effective in improving the health and wellbeing of the ageing population.

Mental Health Disparities by Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity in the All of Us Research Program.

Limited research explores mental health disparities between individuals in sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations and cisgender heterosexual (non-SGM) populations using national-level data. To explore mental health disparities between SGM and non-SGM populations across sexual orientation, sex assigned at birth, and gender identity within the All of Us Research Program. This cross-sectional study used survey data and linked electronic health records of eligible All of Us Research Program participants from May 31, 2017, to June 30, 2022. Self-identified SGM status. Prevalence of common mental health conditions identified from linked electronic health records. Logistic regression adjusted for age, race and ethnicity, educational level, income, employment status, and geographic region was used to assess the association between SGM status and mental health conditions. Among 413 457 participants, 269 947 (65.3%) were included in the analysis (median age, 59 [IQR, 43-70] years), with 22 189 (8.2%) self-identified as SGM. Men with cisgender sexual minority identity had higher odds of bipolar disorder (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.87; 95% CI, 1.70-2.56) compared with cisgender heterosexual men. Women with cisgender sexual minority identity had higher odds of bipolar disorder (AOR, 2.09; 95% CI, 1.95-2.25) compared with cisgender heterosexual women. Gender diverse people assigned female sex at birth had higher odds of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) compared with both cisgender heterosexual men (AOR, 3.67; 95% CI, 2.99-4.50) and cisgender heterosexual women (AOR, 2.77; 95% CI, 2.26-3.40). Gender diverse individuals assigned male sex at birth had higher odds of bipolar disorder (AOR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.66-3.33) compared with cisgender heterosexual men and higher odds of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AOR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.48-3.23) compared with cisgender heterosexual women. Transgender men had higher odds of depression (AOR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.80-2.49) compared with cisgender heterosexual men, while transgender women had higher odds of any personality disorder (AOR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.84-3.99) compared with cisgender heterosexual women. In this cross-sectional study of participants in the All of Us Research Program, there were significant mental health disparities between participants in SGM and non-SGM groups. These findings underscore the need for tailored mental health interventions to improve the well-being of SGM populations, while noting that the associations do not imply causality but reflect the stigma and minority stress experienced by these individuals.

Cardiovascular Disease in the Post-COVID-19 Era: A Narrative Review on the Impact of Lifestyle Behaviors

Abstract Responsible for ~18 million global deaths annually, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a prominent cause of morbidity and mortality that negatively affects population health and well-being. Despite increased knowledge and advancements in medicine, technology, and an array of global initiatives to slow the prevalence of CVD across the world in recent decades, future projections for prevalence and the wider societal and economic impacts are alarming. It is outlined in this review that little progress is being made against a series of landmark initiatives and that, in a postpandemic world, we might need to consider innovative approaches to tackle the unprecedented growth and projections in CVD prevalence. To address the sustained reductions in positive health behaviors which is coupled with an established rise in cardiovascular risk factors and events following infections with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, there is an urgent public health challenge that lies ahead. Accordingly, we must establish bespoke systems that can recognize and address the complexity and interactive and interdisciplinary nature of chronic diseases. Future approaches must heed learning from the many previous unsuccessful approaches that have not been appropriately monitored or evaluated. Establishing or aligning international and collaborative approaches that have a clear mandate to oversee the development and implementation of analysis of global surveillance and interventions is needed to address the spiraling growth in CVD prevalence, healthcare costs, morbidity, and mortality.

Work Related Health Problems and Healthcare Seeking Among Tea Garden Worker

Background: Tea, derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, is a globally consumed beverage with a rich history. Despite its widespread production, smaller gardens produce unique teas highly valued by enthusiasts. The tea industry in Bangladesh, particularly in Sylhet, plays a pivotal role in the economy but is plagued by challenges such as work-related health issues among its predominantly marginalized and tribal labor force. This study aimed to explore the health and lifestyle challenges faced by tea workers in Sylhet. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in three tea gardens in Sylhet, focusing on socio-demographic characteristics, work-related health problems, and healthcare-seeking behaviors. Data were collected from 255 participants using a semi-structured questionnaire, and statistical analyses, including Chi-Square test, were performed using SPSS version 26. Results: The socio-economic profile revealed a predominantly female, Hindu, and illiterate workforce with low income. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) were prevalent, affecting 77.6% of participants, with lower back pain being the most common. Common diseases, injuries, and respiratory issues were reported. Allopathic treatment was preferred by 78% of respondents. Significant associations were found between MSDs and age, education, smoking, and drug use. Job-related factors like nature of work and weekly working hours also showed significant associations (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights the multifaceted challenges faced by tea garden workers, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions considering socio-demographic and occupational factors. Insights from this research can inform policies and healthcare strategies to improve the well-being of this vulnerable population. Further research and collaborative efforts are warranted to address the complexities of the tea industry and promote the health and rights of its workforce. JOPSOM 2023; 42(2): 36-42

Demographic and Experiential Characteristics of Asexual Individuals and Associations with Well-Being.

The visibility and number of people identifying as asexual-those with little to no sexual attraction-have been increasing in recent years. In the current study, we examined variation in experiential and developmental milestones and psychosocial functioning in 1,726 individuals on the asexual spectrum (61.2% women, 15.0% non-binary, 14.2% men, 9.0% other gender). A lack of sexual attraction was a lifelong orientation-most (i.e., often half to two-thirds) asexual individuals reported never experiencing sexual attraction or acting on it. Identity formation processes and romantic feelings tended to be most salient in adolescence. People are identifying as asexual more recently, such that 18-22-year-olds did so recently in adolescence (ages 13-17), 23-29 year-olds did so recently in young adulthood (ages 18-24), and 30 + year-olds did so recently in adulthood (ages 25-34). This may be consistent with the visibility of asexuality increasing in recent years, providing a useful label for people. Asexual people were more out to other members of the LGBTQIA+ community but less to family, coworkers, and the heterosexual community. Being out and lower levels of internalized acephobia were associated with higher life satisfaction. We discuss these findings in the context of identity development and the mechanisms linking individual and relational characteristics to well-being in asexual populations.

Abuse and its associated factors among elderly population of Kamalamai Municipality of Sindhuli District, Nepal.

The global rise in the elderly population brings attention to the pressing issue of elder abuse, categorized into physical, psychological, neglect, financial and sexual abuse. According to the World Health Organization (2022), one in six individuals aged 60 and older has experienced some form of abuse in community setting necessitating increase in awareness and support for older people. This study aimed to assess abuse and its associated factors among elderly population of Kamalamai Municipality of Sindhuli District, Nepal. We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. We collected data from June 15 to September 15, 2023. The study involved 398 elderly participants (≥60 years). Stratified sampling techniques was used to select participants. For the qualitative study we utilized purposive sampling technique which included two key informant interviews, one in-depth interview and two focus group discussions. We analyzed quantitative data using IBM SPSS version 20 applying bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis at a 95% confidence interval. For qualitative data, thematic analysis was done. The mean ± SD age of the elderly participants was (70.8± 8.08) years. Among the total of 398 study participants, (64.1%) participants reported experiencing different forms of abuse. The study found that neglect (46.0%), psychological abuse (42.5%), and financial abuse (24.4%) were the most common while physical abuse (4.8%) and sexual abuse (2.8%) were less common. Living in a nuclear family (AOR: 2.74, 95% CI: 1.67-4.51) and lower socio-economic status (AOR: 5.42, 95% CI: 2.28-12.92) were significantly associated with increase risk of elder abuse. Qualitative findings revealed mistreatment, vulnerability, negligence, economic factors, family dynamics, loneliness, financial exploitation, food withholding, physical abuse, and emotional attachment as key aspects of elder abuse. This study highlights neglect and psychological abuse were the most common forms of elder abuse. These findings emphasize the urgency of implementing programs at the municipal level such as financial support system for elderly individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds and education programs for both elderly individuals and their families and caregivers. These initiatives aim to control and reduce the incidence of elder abuse and ensure comprehensive well-being of elderly population.

Socioeconomic inequalities in health behaviors in children and adolescents: evidence from an Australian cohort

BackgroundUnderstanding the association between socioeconomic inequalities and health behaviors is imperative for elucidating and effectively addressing health inequities among children and adolescents. Despite the wealth of literature on social gradients in health behaviors, longitudinal analyses of socioeconomic inequalities in the health behaviors of children and adolescents are relatively limited, particularly in the Australian literature. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the association between socioeconomic inequalities and health behaviors among Australian children and adolescents.MethodsThis study utilized the secondary data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children (Waves 2–8), which included participants aged 2 to 15 years. Relative index inequality (RII) methods were used to investigate the associations between socioeconomic inequalities and the health behaviors of children and adolescents.ResultsCompared with their counterparts, children and adolescents with high socioeconomic status (SES) are 84% more likely to consume fruits and vegetables (RII = 1.84, 95% CI = 1.63–2.09) and 19% less likely to consume sugary beverages (RII = 0.81, 95% CI = 0.77–0.86), but more likely to consume sweet and savory foods (RII = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01–1.19). Children and adolescents with high SES were less likely to spend their free time on screens (RII = 0.86, 95% CI = 0.81–0.91) and more inclined toward outdoor activities (RII = 1.75, 95% CI = 1.53–1.98).ConclusionThis study provides useful insight into socioeconomic inequalities and health behavior outcomes in children and adolescents. These findings stress the need for tailored interventions designed to improve the health behaviors of families from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Additionally, addressing unhealthy dietary behaviors, such as the higher consumption of sweet and savory foods among children from higher SES backgrounds, is equally critical. Such comprehensive interventions have the potential to reduce socioeconomic disparities in health behaviors and improve the well-being of the broader population.