Effectiveness of a Health Belief Model-Based Education Program on Self-Efficacy and Preparedness for Infectious Disasters in Rural Populations.

BACKGROUND: Health education programs can enhance self-efficacy and disaster preparedness. However, research incorporating the Health Belief Model (HBM) in education for infectious disasters is lacking. AIMS: Examine the effectiveness of an HBM-based education program on self-reported self-efficacy and self-reported preparedness for infectious disasters in rural populations. METHODS: In total, 109 eligible participants were allocated to two groups: participants who received HBM-based education (n = 55) or regular education (n = 54), presented at in-person meetings, with individual follow-up conducted on WhatsApp. Self-reported self-efficacy and preparedness for infectious disasters in both groups were measured at 4 and 8 weeks. FINDINGS: Participants showed a significant interaction between groups and in time to increase in self-reported self-efficacy and self-reported preparedness to deal with infectious disasters. After 4 and 8 weeks, the groups had statistically significant differences (p≤.001) in all outcome measures. CONCLUSION: HBM-based education was associated with increased self-reported self-efficacy and self-reported infectious disaster preparedness among the rural population. Follow-up by nurses is essential to implementing continuing health belief education programs to enhance rural populations' self-efficacy and infectious disaster preparedness.

Regular Gymnastics for Three Weeks Lowers Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels in Older Women.

Background: The goal of this study is to see how elderly gymnastics affect blood pressure, plasma glucose levels, and total cholesterol levels in women over the age of 65. Objective: The purpose of this study is to look into the effects of gymnastics on changes in blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and total cholesterol levels in the elderly.. Methods: Thirty-four female elderly women were divided into two groups: those who received gymnastics and those who did not. For three weeks, regular gymnastics exercises were performed on a weekly basis. Blood pressure, plasma glucose levels, and total cholesterol levels were measured using standard techniques and methods. Results: When compared to controls, regular gymnastics exercise can significantly lower blood pressure (p < 0.05). This decrease is also observed in total cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Elderly gymnastics was found to lower blood pressure and total cholesterol levels in the elderly. As a result, elderly gymnastics could be a viable option for preventing cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.