Senses and meanings of primary health care academic visions in nursing / Sentidos y significados de las visiones académicas de la atención/cuidado primaria de salud en enfermería / Sentidos e significados das visões acadêmicas da atenção básica/cuidado em enfermagem

Introduction: Primary Health Care (PHC) has acquired different meanings for different people, at specific times and places, which poses important challenges for its understanding. Objective: To analyze the meaning(s) and sense(s) of Primary/Basic Health Care in the academic views on Nursing/Health in the context of undergraduate Nursing courses offered at two public Higher Education Institutions. Materials and methods: Qualitative study with an exploratory approach. Semi-structured interviews and documentary analysis were used as data collection techniques. Results: The senses/meanings of Primary Health Care converge with the population's gateway to the health system at the first care level and with the first contact of a person with the health service. However, it is still considered as a less important service within the care network. Conclusion: Primary Health Care means a relevant possibility for Nursing/Health care through health promotion and disease prevention actions, with a commitment to respond to most of the population's health needs.

Introducción: La Atención Primaria de Salud ha adquirido diferentes significados para diversas personas, en momentos y lugares específicos, lo cual plantea importantes retos para su entendimiento. Objetivo: Analizar los significados y sentidos de la Atención Primaria de Salud desde una visión académica en Enfermería y en el contexto de cursos de pregrado en Enfermería ofrecidos en dos Instituciones Públicas de Educación Superior. Materiales y métodos: Estudio cualitativo con un enfoque exploratorio, para la recolección de datos se emplearon entrevistas semiestructuradas y análisis documental de contenidos. Resultados: Los sentidos/significados de la Atención Primaria de la Salud convergen con el ingreso de la población al sistema de salud en el primer nivel de atención y la primera experiencia de la persona con el servicio de salud. Sin embargo, dicha Atención Primaria todavía se considera un servicio de baja importancia dentro de la red asistencial. Conclusión: La Atención Primaria de Salud representa una posibilidad relevante para el cuidado de Enfermería a través de acciones de promoción de la salud y prevención de enfermedades, que debe fortalecerse para responder la mayoría de las necesidades de salud de la población.

Introdução: A Atenção Primária à Saúde tem adquirido diferentes significados para diferentes pessoas, em momentos e locais específicos, o que coloca desafios importantes para a sua compreensão. Objetivo: Analisar os sentidos e significados da Atenção Primária à Saúde na perspectiva acadêmica em Enfermagem e no contexto dos cursos de graduação em Enfermagem oferecidos em duas Instituições de Ensino Superior Públicas. Materiais e métodos: Estudo qualitativo com abordagem exploratória, utilizou-se entrevistas semiestruturadas para coleta de dados e análise de conteúdo documental. Resultados: Os sentidos/significados da Atenção Primária à Saúde convergem com a entrada da população no sistema de saúde no primeiro nível de atenção e a primeira experiência da pessoa com o serviço de saúde. Contudo, a referida Atenção Básica ainda é considerada um serviço de baixa importância dentro da rede de saúde. Conclusão: A Atenção Primária à Saúde representa uma possibilidade relevante para o cuidado de Enfermagem por meio de ações de promoção da saúde e prevenção de doenças, que devem ser fortalecidas para responder à maioria das necessidades de saúde da população.

Facilitators and barriers in interprofessional collaboration around physical activity on prescription-a focus group study in a Swedish school setting.

In Swedish school health services, local initiatives have been taken to use physical activity on prescription (PAP) to encourage physically inactive children to become more active. Previous research shows that interprofessional collaboration plays a crucial role in promoting physical activity in children, as well as in promoting health in schools. However, there is a lack of knowledge about PAP for children in the school setting, including how medical and educational staff can work together to encourage children who have been recommended PAP. Therefore, this study aims to explore the perceived facilitators and barriers concerning interprofessional collaboration regarding physical activity on prescription in the school setting, as viewed from the professionals' perspectives. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 professionals who work with the method in school settings. The data were analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. The results reveal both barriers and facilitators for interprofessional collaboration on PAP in the school setting, as perceived by professionals. Organizational and structural obstacles within school institutions hinder collaboration, while a shared commitment to PAP, characterized by consensus-building, acts as a facilitating factor. PAP for children in a school setting is still an unexplored area and further research is required.

Pilot evaluation of the effectiveness of an ergonomics awareness educational programme addressed to middle-school children.

BACKGROUND: Ergonomics programmes addressed to children fit the health-promoting schools (HPS) framework. Beyond the integration of ergonomics in curricula, an important aspect is the effectiveness of the programme. This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme proposed to a sample of middle-school children (aged 10-13 years) of the metropolitan city of Cagliari. METHODS: The programme was designed along the lines of the INAIL (Italian National Institute for Insurance against Accidents at Work) scheme and proposed to 260 children. It consisted of three phases: 1) assessment of students' background with a pre-intervention questionnaire (completed by 142 students); 2) teaching of the ergonomics training modules and evaluation of the weight of a sample of 160 backpacks, and of students' perception to be able to sit by putting their feet on the ground; 3) evaluation of conceptual understanding of ergonomics concepts with a post-intervention questionnaire (completed by 107 students out of the 142 students who completed phase 1). RESULTS: There was a substantial improvement in the percentage of correct responses post-intervention, confirmed by the chi-square test, regarding concepts about ergonomics, backpack weight and handling. Most of the backpacks exceeded the maximum allowed value, and 20% of students were perceived to be unable to sit putting their feet on the ground. CONCLUSIONS: The practical application of ergonomics pedagogy proved effective in the school setting and should be integrated into school curricula. The prevention technicians can offer a holistic approach, while the teachers are essential to implement the programme on a large scale. Effectiveness evaluation is necessary to guide resource allocation and implement and sustain the HPS approach. A tailored programme has a greater chance of reaching its target audience and maximizing effectiveness.

Assessing the impact of oral health disease on quality of life in Ecuador: a mixed-methods study.

Introduction: Globally, oral health diseases surpass all other non-communicable diseases in prevalence; however, they are not well studied in underserved regions, where accessibility to dental services and oral health education is disparately worse. In Ecuador, further research is needed to understand such disparities better. We aimed to assess the effect of oral health disease on individuals' quality of life and how social disparities and cultural beliefs shape this. Methods: Individuals 18 or older receiving care at mobile or worksite clinics from May to October 2023 were included. A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews, Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL) measures, and extra-oral photographs (EOP). Results: The sample (n = 528) included mostly females (56.25%) with a mean age of 34.4 ± 9.44. Most participants (88.26%) reported brushing at least twice daily, and less than 5% reported flossing at least once per day. The median OHRQoL score was 4 (min-max), significantly higher among individuals ≥40 years old, holding high school degrees, or not brushing or flossing regularly (p < 0.05). Identified barriers to good oral health included affordability, time, and forgetfulness. Participants not receiving care with a consistent provider reported fear as an additional barrier. Participants receiving worksite dental services reported these barriers to be alleviated. Dental providers were the primary source of oral hygiene education. Most participants reported oral health concerns, most commonly pain, decay, dysphagia, and halitosis - consistent with EOP analysis. Discussion: Findings underscore a need for multi-level interventions to advance oral health equity.

Gerontology in Public Health: A Scoping Review of Current Perspectives and Interventions.

The intersection of gerontology and public health is increasingly vital due to the global aging population and its implications for health systems. This scoping review aims to map existing literature on gerontology within public health, identify current perspectives, and evaluate interventions tailored to the needs of older adults. A systematic search was performed using predefined keywords across multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science. The review included 42 studies that employed various designs, all focusing on public health interventions targeting the aging population.  Key findings indicate a pressing need to integrate gerontological principles into public health practice, recognizing the heterogeneous nature of older adults and the significance of social determinants of health. Interventions ranged from preventive health measures and chronic disease management programs to health promotion activities and caregiver support, including the application of technology to improve health outcomes. However, there was a notable lack of research on diverse populations and mental health interventions. The review also uncovered critical gaps in the literature, such as economic barriers to care access and the necessity for comprehensive policies addressing the aging population's diverse needs. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the importance of a multidimensional approach to effectively addressing older adults' health needs. While several effective interventions exist, there is an urgent need to tackle identified gaps, particularly concerning diverse populations and mental health, to enhance overall health strategies for the aging demographic.

Blood Pressure Control Among Diabetic Patients in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: The control of blood pressure (BP) is a challenge in diabetic patients and is associated with adverse outcomes of diabetes. In this systematic review and metaanalysis, we investigated the BP control rate among hypertensive diabetic patients in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) countries. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases up to January 2023 for observational studies on BP control among hypertensive diabetic patients in all EMR countries. We included studies reporting the proportion of hypertensive, type 2 diabetic patients with controlled BP, defined as systolic/diastolic BP < 140/90 or <130/80 mmHg. Study quality was assessed using modified STROBE guidelines, and a random- effect meta-analysis was conducted to pool prevalence data and calculate overall rates. Subgroup analysis was performed by gender, study design, country, and BP control cut-offs (140/90 and 130/80). RESULTS: Among the 1949 retrieved studies, 20 studies assessing 27956 individuals were included. The proportion of BP control regardless of cut-off points was 36.8% (95% CI=29.1%- 45.3%) for both genders combined, with a breakdown of 53.2% (95% CI=36.1%-69.6%) for women and 43.5% (95% CI=20.0%-70.3%) for men, respectively. Based on cut-offs of 130/80 and 140/90 mmHg as the target, BP control was estimated by 38.2% (95%CI 24.5, 54.1) and 36.5% (95%CI 27.1, 47.0), respectively. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate that BP control targets are not successfully achieved in hypertensive diabetic patients in the Eastern Mediterranean region. It is recommended to place greater emphasis on the quality of hypertension care in the management of type 2 diabetes.

Estratégias de educação alimentar e nutricional em um grupo intergeracional: um relato de experiência / Food and nutrition education strategies in an intergenerational group: an experience report / Estrategias de educación alimentaria y nutricional en un grupo intergeneracional: un reporte de experiencia

O Brasil vive uma transição demográfica que favorece o aparecimento e desenvolvimento de doenças crônicas não transmissíveis (DCNT). Em um cenário em que as DCNT estão entre as principais causas de mortes, reforçar a importância de uma alimentação saudável é imprescindível, e medidas preventivas tomam lugar de destaque. Pensando nisso, foram realizadas 11 intervenções de educação alimentar e nutricional em um grupo de atividade física intergeracional, com o objetivo de promover autonomia alimentar. O estudo contou com 25 participantes, na faixa etária de 37 a 83 anos, sendo a maior incidência de 61 a 69 anos (n=12) e predominância de pessoas do gênero feminino (92%). Os parâmetros para avaliar o grupo foram os feedbacks das(os) participantes e o grau de adesão, no qual houve aumento significativo ao longo do período interventivo. Destaca-se a importância de ampliar a abordagem dos hábitos alimentares saudáveis em diversos ambientes, sendo os grupos de atividades físicas um campo fértil, que requer a adaptação da linguagem e formato das atividades, considerando o nível de escolaridade das(os) participantes. Assim, a educação alimentar e nutricional pode ser usada como ferramenta efetiva para a promoção da saúde, a prevenção e o tratamento de DCNT.

Brazil is undergoing a demographic transition that favors the onset and development of chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In a scenario where NCDs feature among the main causes of death, reinforcing the importance of healthy eating is essential and preventive measures should take place. Consequently, eleven Food and Nutritional Education interventions were conducted with an intergenerational physical activity group to promote food autonomy. A total of 25 individuals aged 37 to 83 years participated in the study, with the highest prevalence of 61 to 69 years (n=12) and women (92%). Evaluation parameters were participant feedback and the degree of adherence, which increased significantly over the interventional period. Results highlight the importance of broadening the approach to healthy eating habits in various environments, with physical activity groups being a fertile setting which requires adapting language and the format of activities according to participants' schooling level. Nutritional Food Education can be used as an effective tool for health promotion, prevention and treatment of NCDs.

Brasil vive una transición demográfica que favorece la aparición y desarrollo de enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles (ECNT). En un escenario en que entre las principales causas de muerte están las ECNT, se hace imprescindible reforzar la importancia de una alimentación saludable; para ello se destacan las medidas preventivas. Así, se realizaron 11 intervenciones de educación alimentaria y nutricional en un grupo de actividad física intergeneracional, con el objetivo de promover la autonomía alimentaria. Este estudio contó con una muestra de 25 participantes, en la franja etaria de 37 a 83 años, siendo la mayor prevalencia de los de entre 61 y 69 años (n=12), y predominancia de personas del género femenino (92%). Los parámetros que evalúan al grupo fueron las respuestas de las(los) participantes y el grado de adhesión, en el cual hubo un aumento significativo a lo largo de la intervención. Se destaca la importancia de ampliar el foco en los hábitos alimentarios saludables en diversos ambientes, y los grupos de actividades físicas son un campo fértil que requiere la adaptación del lenguaje y el formato de las actividades, considerando el nivel de escolaridad de las(los) participantes. Así, la educación alimentaria nutricional puede ser utilizada como herramienta efectiva para la promoción de la salud, la prevención y el tratamiento de las ECNT.

Contribuições dos grupos operativos da atenção básica a partir da visão dos usuários / Aportes de los grupos operativos de atención primaria desde la visión de los usuarios / Contributions of primary care operating groups from user perception

Os grupos em saúde nascem para fomentar práticas coletivas de saúde, tendo se expandido para a atenção básica, encontrando ressonância na promoção da saúde e da qualidade de vida. Baseados nas teorias de Pichon-Rivière e de Yalom e Leszcz, esses grupos são capazes de contribuir para mudanças significativas na qualidade de vida de seus usuários participantes. Este artigo tem como objetivo analisar as contribuições dos grupos operativos da atenção primária à saúde a partir da visão de seus usuários e compreender a operacionalização desses grupos. Trata-se de pesquisa descritiva e analítica de caráter qualitativo, realizada em quatro grupos operativos em saúde da atenção básica de um município do Rio Grande do Norte, no interior do semiárido nordeste brasileiro. Os dados foram coletados por questionário socioeconômico e grupos focais entre março e agosto de 2023, sendo utilizada estatística descritiva para os questionários e análise temática de conteúdo para os grupos focais. Os questionários revelaram um predomínio de participantes do sexo feminino, com faixa etária acima dos 60 anos e situação socioeconômica de baixa renda. A análise de conteúdo demonstrou a efetividade dos grupos em produzir vetores grupais e fatores terapêuticos, além de seu potencial, como campo para a educação popular em saúde, em fomentar as redes sociais, o apoio, o acolhimento e o bem-estar biopsicossocial. Os grupos em saúde são estratégias eficazes na promoção da saúde e na qualidade de vida. Entretanto, ressalta-se a necessidade de pesquisas que avaliem a eficácia global dos grupos nos processos de morbimortalidade.

Health care groups were created to promote collective health practices and were expanded into Primary Care, helping to promote health and quality of life. Based on the theories of Pichon-Rivière and Yalom and Lezscz, these groups can contribute to significant changes in the quality of life of their participating users. Thus, this article analyzes the contributions of Primary Health Care operating groups from users' perspective and understands their operationalization. A descriptive analytical qualitative research was conducted with four health operating groups in Primary Care from a municipality in Rio Grande do Norte, in the semi-arid northeastern Brazil. Data were collected by means of a socioeconomic questionnaire and focus groups between March and August 2023, and investigated using descriptive statistics (questionnaires) and thematic content analysis (focus groups). The questionnaires revealed a predominance of female participants over 60 years old and with low-income socioeconomic status. Content analysis showed the groups' effectiveness in producing group vectors and therapeutic factors, as well as their potential as a field for popular health education in fostering social networks, support, user embracement, and biopsychosocial well-being. Health groups are effective strategies for promoting health and quality of life, future research should evaluate their global effectiveness in morbidity and mortality.

Los grupos de salud se crearon para promover prácticas de salud colectiva y se expandieron a la atención primaria, repercutiendo en la promoción de la salud y la calidad de vida. Basados en las teorías de Pichon-Rivière y Yalom y Lezscz, los grupos son capaces de contribuir a cambios significativos en la calidad de vida de sus usuarios participantes. Este artículo tuvo por objetivo analizar las contribuciones de los grupos operativos de atención primaria de la salud desde la perspectiva de sus usuarios, así como comprender la operacionalización de estos grupos. Se trata de una investigación cualitativa, descriptiva y analítica, realizada en cuatro grupos operativos de salud en atención primaria de un municipio de Rio Grande do Norte (Brasil), en el interior de la región semiárida del Nordeste de Brasil. Los datos se recogieron de un cuestionario socioeconómico y de grupos focales en el período entre marzo y agosto de 2023, utilizando estadística descriptiva para los cuestionarios y análisis de contenido temático para los grupos focales. Los cuestionarios revelaron un predominio de los participantes del sexo femenino, mayores de 60 años y con nivel socioeconómico de bajos ingresos. El análisis de contenido demostró la eficacia de los grupos en la producción de vectores grupales y factores terapéuticos, además de su potencial como campo de educación popular en salud para fomentar redes sociales, apoyo, acogida y bienestar biopsicosocial. Los grupos de salud son estrategias efectivas para promover la salud y la calidad de vida. Sin embargo, se destaca la necesidad de investigaciones que evalúen la efectividad global de los grupos en los procesos de morbimortalidad.

Public Policies on Obesity: A Literature Review of Global Challenges and Response Strategies.

As a complex and multifactorial health problem, obesity results from the interaction of genetic, environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors. Globally, the increase in obesity and related chronic diseases has been associated with global trade liberalization, rapid urbanization, and economic growth. This article is a narrative literature review on the global obesity problem and explores the global challenges of obesity and strategies to address them. The research methodology included a retrieval of peer-reviewed articles, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Specific search terms like "obesity", "policy", "nutrition", and "global", outline the impact of obesity on global health and social systems, as well as policy effectiveness and gaps that exist. The outcome reveals regional differences in obesity rates and provides an analysis of the policies that countries have implemented to address obesity and their effectiveness, in particular concerning improving the quality of diets and limiting the intake of added sugars. Despite some policies proving effective, the challenge of obesity is far from being fully addressed, necessitating robust international efforts and strategies.

A health promotion model-based intervention to enhance treatment adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes.

BACKGROUND: The present study aimed to determine the effect of an intervention based on Pender's health promotion model (HPM) on treatment adherence in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). METHODS: The present quasi-experimental study with a 3-month follow-up was conducted in Bandar Abbas, a city in the south of Iran in 2023. The intervention group (IG) with a total number of 95 T2D patients was selected from Hormuz diabetes clinic and the control group (CG) with 95 T2D patients was selected from comprehensive health centers through a clustering sampling method. The educational intervention was implemented in 10 sessions to improve patients' treatment adherence. The teaching methods in training sessions were lectures, joint discussions, Q&A, role-play and peer training. The participants were evaluated using a researcher-made questionnaire including the constructs of Pender's HPM about T2D treatment adherence, hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), and BMI. Independent-samples t-test, paired-samples t-test, covariance analysis and stepwise regression analysis were used. Data analysis was done in SPSS 26. FINDINGS: Three months after the intervention, in comparison to the CG, the mean and standard deviation of treatment adherence benefits (p = 0.002), treatment adherence self-efficacy (p = 0.010), treatment adherence related affect (p = 0.001), interpersonal influences (p = 0.012), commitment to plan of action (p < 0.001), treatment adherence behavior (p = 0.022), treatment adherence experiences (p = 0.001) was higher in the IG. The mean and standard deviation of situational influences (p < 0.001), immediate competing demands and preferences (p = 0.018) were lower than the CG. The results obtained from the analysis of covariance proved the effectiveness of the intervention in the constructs of Pender's HPM and HbA1C in participants of the IG (p < 0.001). The regression analysis showed, after the intervention, for every 1 unit of change in commitment to behavior planning, action related affect and perceived self-efficacy, compared to before the intervention, there were 0.22 units, 0.16 units and 0.26 units of change in the behavior score in the IG. CONCLUSION: The findings proved the effectiveness of the educational intervention in improving the constructs in Pender's HPM and the blood sugar level of T2D patients. As the results of the educational intervention showed, the use of a suitable educational approach as well as the development of appropriate educational content for the target population can significantly improve the treatment adherence behavior. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This study is registered on the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20211228053558N1: https://www.irct.ir/trial/61741 ) and first release date of 17th March 2022.

A collective agenda: A qualitative study on Exercise is Medicine® On Campus gold-level institutions.

Objective: The Exercise is Medicine® On Campus (EIM-OC) international campaign leverages university resources (e.g., health centers, recreation, and kinesiology departments) to encourage students, faculty, and staff to integrate physical activity into campus culture. This involves evaluating student physical activity levels during health visits and establishing referral systems for exercise prescriptions. EIM-OC allows universities to earn tiered recognition (Gold, Silver, or Bronze) based on their on-campus physical activity promotion and integration. For Gold recognition, schools must incorporate routine physical activity assessments into their health system, ultimately connecting healthcare providers with health/fitness professionals (HFPs, e.g., campus recreation professionals, kinesiology professors). This research worked to uncover pivotal factors driving EIM-OC on-campus collaborations through HFPs' perspectives. Methods: HFPs (n = 11) working full-time at a Gold-level institution (n = 10 in United States) participated. Semi-structured, Zoom-recorded interviews with a generic qualitative research design were completed between June and September 2022. Results: Major thematic findings included the importance of tangible support (e.g., personnel), encounters with both trust and tension cross-campus, positive student development opportunities, and variations in outcome reporting and program evaluation. Faculty and staff emphasized the need for methods to obtain and sustain program funding. Participants also expressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to increase the collective impact of EIM-OC on student health and overall collegiate success. Conclusion: HFPs expanded on their EIM-OC experiences and program sustainment or growth requirements. With increased interdisciplinary collaboration, rigor in outcome reporting, and tangible resources, the collective impact of EIM-OC on student health outcomes and overall collegiate success could be greatly perpetuated.

Enhancing Citizen Health Literacy Through Digital Technology.

Contemporary society faces significant public health challenges with prevalent unhealthy behaviors and environmental risks leading non-communicable diseases. This study assesses health awareness campaigns'to effectiveness in a specific Taiwanese municipality, focusing on the impact of a health care management system. Objectives include enhancing public health literacy and evaluating community health promotion. The proposed system includes a personalized assistant app, personnel education, and events covering topics like hypertension, diabetes, diet, exercise, and chronic disease prevention. In summary, the research advocates for effective public health interventions, integrating digital technologies, personalized health management, and community engagement to promote health literacy and healthier lifestyles.

Moderate cryptoxanthin intake correlates with maintenance of a proper PINT index in a general Japanese population.

INTRODUCTION: Small fibre neuropathy (SFN) is an early manifestation of diabetic polyneuropathy. Although oxidative stress, inflammation and change of intestinal bacterial population are assumed to be their pathogenesis, the effects of dietary nutrition have not been evaluated. The relationship between dietary nutrition intake and pain sensation was evaluated in the Japanese population. METHODS: We conducted the Iwaki project, a population-based study recruiting 1,028 individuals, in 2018. The relationships between the pain threshold from intraepidermal electrical stimulation (PINT) and the amount of dietary nutrition evaluated by a brief-type self-administered diet history questionnaire were examined. The odds ratio was further explored after categorizing subjects based on low (< 63.7 µg/day), intermediate (63.7-159.2 µg/day), and high cryptoxanthin levels (> 159.2 µg/day). RESULTS: Univariate linear regression analyses showed significant correlations between PINT and cryptoxanthin intake even after adjustments for other nutritional intakes (ß = 0.107, p < 0.01). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed low and high cryptoxanthin intake as significant risk factors for abnormal PINT (≥ 0.20 mA). Multivariate linear regression analyses showed significant correlations between PINT and cryptoxanthin intake levels after adjustment for other clinically PINT-related factors (ß = 0.09, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Adequate intake of cryptoxanthin is recommended to maintain the pain threshold in the Japanese population.

Digital screens in community pharmacy for public health messaging; a mixed-methods study.

OBJECTIVES: An independent evaluation was undertaken to investigate the perceived impact of installing digital screens in a group of community pharmacies as an approach to provide public health messaging. METHODS: Community pharmacy staff were interviewed prior to screen installation to investigate experience and perceptions of conventional public health campaigns using written materials. Staff were interviewed after the digital screen installation to investigate their opinions of the installation and its impact on public health delivery in the pharmacy. Patients and public representatives were recruited to visit the pharmacies and asked to complete a survey about what they observed and thought about the public health messaging. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed. Surveys consisted of open, closed, and rating questions. The results of which were descriptively analysed. KEY FINDINGS: Community pharmacy staff found paper-based campaigns work-intensive and created paper wastage. The digital screen installation was received positively by pharmacy staff and patient, and public representatives found them eye-catching and engaging. Staff were unable to report any conversations with members of the public triggered by the screens, but the patient and public volunteers were able to recall some of the health messages. CONCLUSIONS: Digital messaging is common practice and digital screens are already in use in areas where patients and the public have conventionally been in attendance, e.g. GP surgeries. Digital screens in community pharmacy for public health messaging could be considered an inevitable progression for public health messaging given concerns about wastage and up-to-date information. The impact, however, on triggering healthier choices and lifestyles requires further investigation.

Co-Creating a Synchronous Tele-Education Program With Community-Dwelling Older Adults Using a Participatory Approach: A Mixed-Methods Study.

There is a pressing need to include older individuals in health education and uncover their specific needs. Leveraging the advantages of digitized health education, this study employed a participatory approach to engage community-dwelling older adults in co-creating a synchronous tele-education program, with dementia as the focus due to its rising prevalence and associated stigma in Singapore. Our findings demonstrate the preliminary effectiveness and feasibility of tele-education. Participants' feedback and recommendations provided valuable insights and could guide the future development of a comprehensive tele-education program. Participants' satisfaction with the co-design workshops also indicates the potential of involving older generations in the design process of user-centered digital health interventions in online environments. Moving forward, the study advocates collaboration among health institutes, government and social agencies, and community organizations, alongside systematic evaluation of the long-term impacts of tele-education, with the aim of improving health outcomes and reducing health inequalities among the older population.

Physical activity moderates the association between school start time and sleep duration in a cross-sectional national sample of adolescents.

Background: Adolescent insufficient sleep is an endemic issue that may result in compromised functioning throughout the course of the day and is associated with increased risk for a variety of adverse outcomes. Early school start time (SST) has been consistently found to be detrimental to adolescents' sleep achievement on school nights. However, there are logistical barriers to changing SST. Evidence supports daily engagement in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) to enhance adolescents' nightly sleep achievement. However, the role of MVPA in the association between SST and sleep duration is unknown. This study examines the potential moderating effect of MVPA in the association between SST and sleep duration on a typical school day among adolescents. Methods: This study examined data (collected in April and October 2014) from a national sample of 1132 adolescents (m age = 14.5 years) living in the United States from the Family Life, Activity, Sun, Health, and Eating study, a cross-sectional, internet-based survey. First, three linear regressions were computed to examine bivariate associations between SST, MVPA, and sleep duration while controlling for participant sex, race and ethnicity, household income, school level, and the presence of a TV in the bedroom. Next, a three-step multiple regression was computed with sleep duration as the dependent variable, and the final step included an interaction term between SST and MVPA. Results: Later SST (b 1 = 0.41, p < 0.001) and increased MVPA (b 1 = 0.39, p < 0.001) were both associated with increased sleep duration, while SST and MVPA were not significantly associated. In the final multiple regression model, which included the interaction term, school day MVPA moderated the positive association between SST and school night sleep duration (b 1 = - 3.7, p < 0.05), such that the greater the MVPA on a typical school day, the weaker the positive association between early SST and sleep duration. In post-hoc analysis, the interaction effect was only significant for females and not males. Conclusions: The significant buffering effect of MVPA on the association between SST and sleep duration suggests that in the absence of SST changes, promoting MVPA among adolescents may be a promising strategy to mitigate insufficient sleep among US adolescents.

Improving patient-centered mental health promotion in primary care in vulnerable communities through mindfulness training in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Introduction: Brazilian Primary Health Care (PHC) is responsible for all-sanitary actions for a community-based population, including health promotion and mental health care. Mindfulness Based Health Promotion (MBHP) is an intervention that can promote self-care and psychosocial support in PHC. Objective: To discuss the effects of mindfulness based psychosocial group interventions for health promotion in primary care units in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Methods: The intervention was based on the MBHP model adapted for SUS. Nine groups were held in Rio de Janeiro. A quali-quanti research was held with two parts: (a) quantitative study, pre and after the 8 weeks intervention, evaluating the effect on mindfulness and self-compassion and their association with levels of anxiety, depression, and quality of life. (b) Qualitative research using Focus Groups with the participants to investigate their experience at the end of the mindfulness groups. Results and discussion: Sixty-two participants finished the 9 groups where 86% were women, mostly between 30 and 59 years of age and low income, and around 80% under regular medical care in PHC in SUS. In the studied sample 80% had at least one chronic health condition under treatment, including 42% with anxiety and 35% with depression. The effects included significant improvement in Anxiety and Depression and in Quality of Life, mainly in the psychological but also in the physical and interrelation domains. The qualitative study showed that most patients joined the group on the recommendation of health professionals for managing physical and mental health symptoms. Patients reported being able to use the practices taught in the sessions to manage symptoms such as insomnia and emotionally distressing situations in their daily lives. Including family members in mindfulness practices was a strategy to negotiate not only a space at home to meditate, but also to obtain a different approach to health problems. Participants pointed to mindfulness as a complementary therapeutic option to medication and psychotherapy. Conclusion: Mindfulness-Based Intervention have shown to be a feasible, well-accepted and efficacious method of offering psychosocial support and promoting well-being for low-income patients in primary care in LAMIC.

A Conceptual Primer on the Potential of Adaptive Policies to Reduce Physical Inactivity.

BACKGROUND: Despite the existence of physical activity policies across many countries, insufficient physical activity remains a major global public health problem. Physical inactivity is an emergent feature of complex systems; it results from a wide range of factors at multiple levels that interact to influence behavior. Traditional approaches to public policy often fail within complex systems, largely due to unpredictability in how the system will respond. Adaptive policies, which are designed to allow for uncertainty about future system behavior and to change over time, may offer a promising solution. In this paper, we introduce the concept of adaptive policies and illustrate how this innovative approach to policy making may be beneficial for reducing physical inactivity. DESIGN: Drawing on existing literature and guiding principles for policy making, we provide 3 examples to illustrate how the concept of adaptive policies can be applied to address physical inactivity. DISCUSSION: The examples illustrate how changes to the way policies and interventions are developed, implemented, and evaluated could help to overcome some of the limitations in existing practices. A key challenge will be engaging policymakers to take a broader perspective of the physical activity system, develop policies that are designed to be adaptable across a range of different future scenarios, and embrace uncertainty and long-term adaptability. CONCLUSION: Adaptive policies may support decision makers globally to achieve the widespread and sustained changes necessary to increase population levels of physical activity.

Evaluating campaign concepts aimed at replacing sugar-sweetened beverages with water.

ISSUE ADDRESSED: The study addresses the global health concern of sugar overconsumption, particularly focusing on the prevalence of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among young people. METHODS: The study tested three different health promotion campaign concepts, designed to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage intake and promote water consumption as a healthier alternative. A total of 402 young adults (18-29) were recruited from a university campus and an online panel. Participants were randomly assigned to view one of three campaign images: one advocating for substituting sugar-sweetened beverages with water, and two exclusively promoting water consumption. These images were assessed through an online survey, which included questions on emotional response, salience, attitudes and intentions towards various beverages. RESULTS: Participants exposed to the campaign emphasising the benefits of water showed a greater intention to increase water consumption and reduce both sugar- and non-sugar-sweetened beverages compared with the other groups. There were no significant differences observed for the beverage choice task across the campaigns. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that messaging focusing on the benefits of water holds promise in encouraging healthier beverage consumption intentions among young adults. The lack of significant differences in the beverage choice task across the campaigns indicates a need for further research to explore long-term behaviour change effects. SO WHAT?: By highlighting the benefits of water consumption, campaigns may have the potential to positively influence beverage choices and promote healthier habits. Continued research in this area can provide valuable insights for developing more impactful interventions aimed at reducing sugar-sweetened beverage consumption.

Improving cervical screening rates among sexual minorities: Insights from Aotearoa New Zealand.

ISSUE ADDRESSED: Sexual minority women (SMW) experience inequities in health outcomes. The extant literature consistently suggests that SMW are much less likely than their heterosexual peers to engage in cervical screening. Using participant's voices, the focus of this study was to explore the ways in which cervical screening rates for SMW might be improved. METHODS: An online survey was completed by SMW (N = 177) aged 25-69 based in Aotearoa New Zealand and representing a range of sexual identities, ethnicities, and geographical regions. The analysis presented here was derived from open-ended qualitative responses to a single survey item: What do you think could be done to encourage more SMW (lesbians, wahine takatapui, bisexual women, etc.) to engage in smear testing? RESULTS: Analysis of the data generated three main themes around how public health services could encourage more SMW to engage in cervical screening: Inclusive health services, clarity of information, and targeted health promotion. CONCLUSION: The analysis showed that the inherent heteronormativity among health care professionals and the lack of clear and consistent information specific to SMW may be key factors contributing to lower rates of engagement in screening. SO WHAT?: Given that not engaging in screening is the main risk factor for cervical cancer, it is imperative that active consideration is given to these issues with a view to increasing participation rates among SMW.