Peer-to-Peer Human Milk Sharing Through Social Media Groups: The Experiences of Women Donors and Recipients in Hong Kong.

AIM: To explore the lived experience of donors and recipients involved in peer-to-peer human milk donation. DESIGN: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study. METHOD: Semi-structured interviews were conducted between November 2022 and April 2023. A total of 50 women consisting of 34 donors and 16 recipients were recruited using purposive sampling from specific social media groups in Hong Kong that focus on breast milk donation and sharing. Data were analysed based on thematic analysis. RESULTS: Five key themes were identified in this study: Motivation; Milk sharing as a social act; Not a Norm; Recommendation to formal milk banks; and Formal donation as the preferred route. CONCLUSION: The findings indicate informal milk sharing is seen as an inferior alternative to formal milk donation systems. The establishment of formal milk banks is viewed as a way to address the shortcomings of informal sharing. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION: The findings have implications for the healthcare field, particularly in improving the experiences of those involved in informal milk sharing. The insights gained from the experiences of informal milk sharers can directly inform and enhance the services provided by formal milk banks. IMPACT: Given the growing prevalence of online informal milk sharing, healthcare professionals should enhance their understanding of this practice. However, the practice has remained understudied, particularly in Asian region. This study brings together the experiences of both milk donors and recipients, providing a comprehensive view on the phenomenon. REPORTING METHOD: The Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution.

Effectiveness of layperson-based interventions in promoting exclusive breastfeeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of layperson-based interventions in sustaining exclusive breastfeeding and to identify the optimal characteristics of such layperson-led strategies for promoting exclusive breastfeeding. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using a comprehensive search in seven electronic databases from their inception to January 2024. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias using version 2 of the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool for randomized trials. RESULTS: Out of the 29,703 articles identified, 27 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. A total of 38,412 participants were included in these studies. The majority of the included studies utilized home visits as the intervention method. However, there is limited data available for other interventions, such as group discussions, phone support, short message service, and combined approaches, making it difficult to determine their effectiveness. Laypersons, with or without breastfeeding experience, were found to be effective intervention providers. DISCUSSION: Home visit interventions conducted by laypersons have proven effective in promoting exclusive breastfeeding. To maximize effectiveness, the content of home visits should be tailored based on the stages of pregnancy, and ideally, the duration of the visits should extend up to six months postpartum to sustain breastfeeding. REGISTRATION: The protocol for this review is registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42021235078). A major deviation from the protocol was the exclusion of network meta-analysis due to the small number of articles identified and the primary outcome being the exclusive breastfeeding rate.

South Asian women's views on and experiences of maternity care services in Hong Kong: A qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: Health disparities among ethnic minority and migrant women can lead to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study explores the maternity care experiences of South Asian women in Hong Kong, providing insights for woman-centred and culturally responsive care in the East Asia. OBJECTIVE: To understand South Asian women's views and experiences regarding maternity care services in Hong Kong. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with 20 English-speaking South Asian women who had used maternity care services in Hong Kong within the past 5 years. Data were analysed by thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Four themes were identified: 1) Comparing maternity care services in their home country versus Hong Kong; birth location, mode of birth and care. 2) Navigating Hong Kong maternal medical care system; including private public dual care and learning information from other South Asians. 3) The discrepancy in perception of optimum care; including a preferring for assistance with daily tasks, epidural anaesthesia, doctor-led care, and priority to infants' health. 4) The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternity care experiences, including the cancellation of translation services and limited visiting hours. DISCUSSION: South Asian appreciate Hong Kong's public maternity services due to its perceived greater cost-effectiveness. The major incongruence between expectations and services provided being women-staff communication. CONCLUSION: The quality of healthcare in Hong Kong is appreciated. Individualized care should be offered to cater to diverse needs. Improvements in staff attitude and provision of detailed information should help alleviate feelings of differential treatment.

Reproductive Concerns Among Young Adult Women With Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: Systemic cancer treatments pose threats to fertility, leading to concerns regarding fertility and parenthood in young adult women with breast cancer (YAWBC). This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on reproductive concerns (RCs) among YAWBC and identify areas where further research in needed. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted. Nine English and Chinese databases were searched for studies from inception to June 2023. A meta-analysis was employed to pool RC levels measured using the Reproductive Concerns After Cancer scale (RCAC scale; possible total scores: 18-90). Narrative synthesis was conducted in cases where a meta-analysis could not be performed. RESULTS: Twenty-four cross-sectional studies across seven countries were included in this review. The prevalence of RCs among YAWBC ranged from 21.75% to 80%. The pooled mean total score on the overall RCAC scale was 55.84 (95% confidence interval: 53.26-58.43). "Personal health," "child's health," and "fertility potential" were the top three types of RCs among YAWBC. Sociodemographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors were found to be associated with RCs among YAWBC. Additionally, significant correlations among RCs, nonadherence to treatment, depression, and quality of life were also identified among YAWBC. CONCLUSION: RCs are a common issue among YAWBC, and age, parenthood status, fertility desire, and chemotherapy treatment are important factors associated with RCs among these women. Further research is needed to clarify RC-related factors to provide evidence aimed at tailoring interventions to mitigate RCs among YWBC.

Effectiveness of a home-based peer support programme for Chinese mothers with low breastfeeding self-efficacy to increase the exclusivity and duration of breastfeeding: study protocol of a randomised control trial.

INTRODUCTION: Breastfeeding is associated with many health benefits for both women and their newborns. Exclusive breastfeeding has been recommended for at least 6 months to optimise infant growth, development and health. In addition to standard care, community-based peer support is recommended to help mothers improve breastfeeding. A recent survey reveals that the rate of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 months post partum in Hong Kong is low, and half of all breastfeeding mothers never exclusively breastfeed. Taking into account the local practice for women to stay home during the first month post partum and social isolation during and post-COVID-19 pandemic, a home-based peer support programme with the aid of Zoom or Facetime is proposed. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a home-based breastfeeding peer support programme in improving breastfeeding practices and achieving exclusive breastfeeding rate among women with low breastfeeding self-efficacy. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The study is a two-armed randomised control trial and will include a total of 442 participants. Potential cases will be recruited and screened at four postnatal wards in Hong Kong public hospital. Eligible and consented cases will be randomly allocated into intervention or control groups at a 1:1 ratio. Control group (n=221) will receive standard care, while the intervention group (n=221) will receive home-based peer support as well as standard care. Trained peer counsellors will provide breastfeeding-related support through Zoom or Facetime at 10 days and 1 month post partum. Telephone follow-ups will be conducted at 1 month, 2 months, 3 months and 6 months post partum. Breastfeeding status, mother's breastfeeding self-efficacy and postpartum depression will be assessed and compared between the two arms. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study has been reviewed and approved by the Institutional Review Board of the University of Hong Kong and Hospital Authority Hong Kong West Cluster (UW 20-564). The findings will be updated in trial registries and disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and academic conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04621266.

Unveiling the voices: Exploring perspectives and experiences of women, donors, recipient mothers and healthcare professionals in human milk donation: A systematic review of qualitative studies.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine and synthesise the views and experiences of women, donors, recipient mothers and healthcare professionals regarding human milk donation or sharing. METHODS: The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) meta-aggregative approach to systematic reviews of qualitative studies was adopted. Six databases, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Scopus were searched. English written qualitative studies from database inception to February 2024 were included. The JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research was used to appraise the collected research evidence. RESULTS: A total of 629 papers were screened, and 41 studies were included in the review. Six key findings were synthesised. (i) Donors, recipients and their families all benefit from milk donation. (ii) Motivation to receive or donate breast milk. (iii) Awareness and participation are affected by formal vs. informal sharing, mothers' personal experiences and external factors. (iv) Concerns about disease transmission, jealousy, bonding and traits. (v) Challenges encountered by donors, recipient mothers, staff and milk banks (vi) Suggestions for promoting human milk donation. DISCUSSION: Stakeholders of human milk donation, including donors, recipient mothers, healthcare professionals, and human milk bank representatives, face various physical, mental and practical challenges. Informal sharing complements formal donations and contributes to improved breastfeeding rates. Advocacy and education efforts are still needed to increase participation and safety levels. The major limitation of the study is the inadequate search on views of immediate family members.

Fear in general populations: A cross-sectional study on perceived fear of common diseases, COVID-19, life events, and environmental threats in 30 countries.

Background: In this study, we assessed the general population's fears towards various diseases and events, aiming to inform public health strategies that balance health-seeking behaviours. Methods: We surveyed adults from 30 countries across all World Health Organization (WHO) regions between July 2020 and August 2021. Participants rated their fear of 11 factors on an 11-point Likert scale. We stratified the data by age and gender and examined variations across countries and regions through multidimensional preference analysis. Results: Of the 16 512 adult participants, 62.7% (n = 10 351) were women. The most feared factor was the loss of family members, reported by 4232 participants (25.9%), followed by cancer (n = 2248, 13.7%) and stroke (n = 1416, 8.7%). The highest weighted fear scores were for loss of family members (mean (x̄) = 7.46, standard deviation (SD) = 3.04), cancer (x̄ = 7.00, SD = 3.09), and stroke (x̄ = 6.61, SD = 3.24). The least feared factors included animals/insects (x̄ = 3.72, SD = 2.96), loss of a mobile phone (x̄ = 4.27, SD = 2.98), and social isolation (x̄ = 4.83, SD = 3.13). Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was the sixth most feared factor (x̄ = 6.23, SD = 2.92). Multidimensional preference analyses showed distinct fears of COVID-19 and job loss in Australia and Burundi. The other countries primarily feared loss of family members, cancer, stroke, and heart attacks; this ranking was consistent across WHO regions, economic levels, and COVID-19 severity levels. Conclusions: Fear of family loss can improve public health messaging, highlighting the need for bereavement support and the prevention of early death-causing diseases. Addressing cancer fears is crucial to encouraging the use of preventive services. Fear of non-communicable diseases remains high during health emergencies. Top fears require more resources and countries with similar concerns should collaborate internationally for effective fear management.

Building a baby-friendly community: Development, strategy, implementation and evaluation of a BFCI program.

AIM: The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of the use of baby-friendly community initiative (BFCI) model on various stakeholders in the community. DESIGN: Quasi-experimental research design. METHOD: The study was conducted in public premises and online workshops from April 2019 to September 2022. Participants were followed up for a period of 1 month, except for those employed at public premises. The program involved training based on an accredited BFCI framework to cultivate a breastfeeding-friendly attitude and knowledge. A paired sample t-test was used to examine breastfeeding attitude and knowledge scores before and after BFCI training among staff employed from public premises. An analysis of variance was conducted to examine the breastfeeding self-efficacy and attitude scores, measured repeatedly at different timepoints over 1-month timepoint (T0, T1 and T2) among pregnant and postpartum women. RESULTS: A total of 2340 perinatal women and 1339 staff from public premises were recruited. For staff, there was an increase in the mean score of breastfeeding knowledge and attitude by 5.8 and 6.1, respectively, at T1. Similarly, for perinatal women, there was an increase in the mean score of breastfeeding self-efficacy and attitude by 6.6 and 3.3, respectively, at T1. CONCLUSION: In summary, a BFCI model, with active community participation, accreditation and an award system, has been effective in promoting breastfeeding. Adapting the baby-friendly hospital initiative to local contexts and employing a social theory model can enhance breastfeeding promotion and improve infant health outcomes. Prioritizing culturally sensitive breastfeeding education is crucial for successful BFCI implementation. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE: Healthcare professionals should consider clients' culture and socio-economic backgrounds when providing breastfeeding education to maximize effectiveness. The target audience for breastfeeding education should be expanded to include various community stakeholders beyond families. IMPACT: What problem did the study address? This study addressed the problem of knowledge gaps among stakeholders in building a breastfeeding-friendly community, particularly in implementing a baby-friendly community initiative (BFCI) as part of a baby-friendly hospital initiative (BFHI). The research filled a service gap by providing effective interventions targeting community stakeholders and assessing the impact of a BFCI program on their knowledge and attitudes towards breastfeeding. What were the main findings? The findings highlighted the effectiveness of a BFCI program in enhancing breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among frontline staff and increasing breastfeeding confidence among mothers. These findings contribute to the understanding of the program's impact on different stakeholders in the community. Where and on whom will the research have an impact? It impacts on global policymakers by providing insights for developing comprehensive guidelines for future BFCI implementations. It also contributes to the creation of a more baby-friendly community, benefiting breastfeeding families and their infants by promoting and supporting breastfeeding families. REPORTING METHOD: This study has adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines using the TREND reporting guideline. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: No patient or public contribution. WHAT DOES THIS PAPER CONTRIBUTE TO THE WIDER GLOBAL CLINICAL COMMUNITY?: This study provides an overview of the establishment of a localized BFCI program. It also opens up a new direction for the community to investigate BFCI strategies for community stakeholders. It also provides evidence to support other countries in following a similar process, as each country approaches becoming breastfeeding-friendly in its own unique way. TRIAL AND PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: No protocol.

Extended Paid Maternity Leave Associated With Improved Maternal Mental Health In Hong Kong.

In July 2020, Hong Kong extended statutory paid maternity leave from ten weeks to fourteen weeks to align with International Labour Organization standards. We used the policy enactment as an observational natural experiment to assess the mental health implications of this policy change on probable postnatal depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scores of 10 or higher) and postpartum emotional well-being. Using an opportunistic observational study design, we recruited 1,414 survey respondents with births before (August 1-December 10, 2020) and after (December 11, 2020-July 18, 2022) policy implementation. Participants had a mean age of thirty-two, were majority primiparous, and were mostly working in skilled occupations. Our results show that the policy was associated with a 22 percent decrease in mothers experiencing postnatal depressive symptoms and a 33 percent decrease in postpartum emotional well-being interference. Even this modest change in policy, an additional four weeks of paid leave, was associated with significant mental health benefits. Policy makers should consider extending paid maternity leave to international norms to improve mental health among working mothers and to support workforce retention.

Prevalence and Factors Associated With Willingness to Sustain Pandemic-Induced Digital Work in the General Population and Moderating Effects of Screen Hours: Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND: The pandemic has accelerated digital work transformation, yet little is known about individuals' willingness to sustain such digital modes and its associated factors. A better understanding of this willingness and its drivers is crucial for guiding the development of future digital work infrastructure, training programs, and strategies to monitor and prevent related health issues. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to quantify the general population's willingness to sustain pandemic-induced digital work, identify its associated factors, and examine how screen time moderates these relationships. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting Hong Kong residents aged ≥18 years who have increased engagement in digital work since the pandemic. Data were collected through self-reported, web-based surveys. Descriptive statistics determined prevalence rates, while structured multiphase logistic regression identified associated factors and explored the moderating effects of screen hour levels. RESULTS: This unfunded study enrolled 1014 participants from May 2 to June 24, 2022, and completed data analysis within 3 months after data collection. A total of 391 (38.6%; 95% CI 35.6%-41.6%) participants expressed willingness to sustain digital work. Positive factors associated with this willingness included being an employee (odds ratio [OR] 3.12, 95% CI 1.59-6.45; P=.001), being health professionals (OR 3.32, 95% CI 1.49-7.82; P=.004), longer screen hours (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.15; P=.002), and higher depression levels (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.01-1.44; P=.04). Conversely, negatively associated factors included older age (OR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81-0.94; P=.001), extroversion (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.51-0.86; P=.002), higher eHealth literacy (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.98; P<.001), perceived greater susceptibility to COVID-19 (OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.74-0.96; P=.009), residence in a high-severity COVID-19 community (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.63-0.84; P<.001), having infected individuals in the immediate social circle (OR 0.64, 95% CI 0.46-0.88; P=.006), higher BMI (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90-0.99; P=.02), feelings of being out of control (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93-0.98; P=.002), and higher fear of COVID-19 (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.98; P=.001). In addition, a moderating effect of screen hour level (high: >8 h/d; low: ≤8 h/d) influenced the association among 10 factors related to willingness to sustain pandemic-induced digital work, including age, education level, household size, needs for regular medical care, BMI, frequency of both vigorous and moderate physical activities, perceived COVID-19 severity, immediate social circle COVID-19 presence, and fear of COVID-19 (all P values for interaction <.05). CONCLUSIONS: The substantial willingness of the general population to sustain digital work after the pandemic highlights the need for robust telework infrastructure, thorough monitoring of adverse health outcomes, and the potential to expand telehealth services among this group. The identification of factors influencing this willingness and the moderating role of screen hours inform the development of personalized strategies to enhance digital work acceptance where needed.

Effects of microbiome-based interventions on neurodegenerative diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are characterized by neuronal damage and progressive loss of neuron function. Microbiome-based interventions, such as dietary interventions, biotics, and fecal microbiome transplant, have been proposed as a novel approach to managing symptoms and modulating disease progression. Emerging clinical trials have investigated the efficacy of interventions modulating the GM in alleviating or reversing disease progression, yet no comprehensive synthesis have been done. A systematic review of the literature was therefore conducted to investigate the efficacy of microbiome-modulating methods. The search yielded 4051 articles, with 15 clinical trials included. The overall risk of bias was moderate in most studies. Most microbiome-modulating interventions changed the GM composition. Despite inconsistent changes in GM composition, the meta-analysis showed that microbiome-modulating interventions improved disease burden (SMD, - 0.57; 95% CI - 0.93 to - 0.21; I2 = 42%; P = 0.002) with a qualitative trend of improvement in constipation. However, current studies have high methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes, requiring more well-designed and controlled studies to elucidate the complex linkage between microbiome, microbiome-modulating interventions, and NDDs.

Key lifestyles and health outcomes across 16 prevalent chronic diseases: A network analysis of an international observational study.

Background: Central and bridge nodes can drive significant overall improvements within their respective networks. We aimed to identify them in 16 prevalent chronic diseases during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to guide effective intervention strategies and appropriate resource allocation for most significant holistic lifestyle and health improvements. Methods: We surveyed 16 512 adults from July 2020 to August 2021 in 30 territories. Participants self-reported their medical histories and the perceived impact of COVID-19 on 18 lifestyle factors and 13 health outcomes. For each disease subgroup, we generated lifestyle, health outcome, and bridge networks. Variables with the highest centrality indices in each were identified central or bridge. We validated these networks using nonparametric and case-dropping subset bootstrapping and confirmed central and bridge variables' significantly higher indices through a centrality difference test. Findings: Among the 48 networks, 44 were validated (all correlation-stability coefficients >0.25). Six central lifestyle factors were identified: less consumption of snacks (for the chronic disease: anxiety), less sugary drinks (cancer, gastric ulcer, hypertension, insomnia, and pre-diabetes), less smoking tobacco (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), frequency of exercise (depression and fatty liver disease), duration of exercise (irritable bowel syndrome), and overall amount of exercise (autoimmune disease, diabetes, eczema, heart attack, and high cholesterol). Two central health outcomes emerged: less emotional distress (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, eczema, fatty liver disease, gastric ulcer, heart attack, high cholesterol, hypertension, insomnia, and pre-diabetes) and quality of life (anxiety, autoimmune disease, cancer, depression, diabetes, and irritable bowel syndrome). Four bridge lifestyles were identified: consumption of fruits and vegetables (diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, and insomnia), less duration of sitting (eczema, fatty liver disease, and heart attack), frequency of exercise (autoimmune disease, depression, and heart attack), and overall amount of exercise (anxiety, gastric ulcer, and insomnia). The centrality difference test showed the central and bridge variables had significantly higher centrality indices than others in their networks (P < 0.05). Conclusion: To effectively manage chronic diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic, enhanced interventions and optimised resource allocation toward central lifestyle factors, health outcomes, and bridge lifestyles are paramount. The key variables shared across chronic diseases emphasise the importance of coordinated intervention strategies.

Text messaging interventions for breastfeeding outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Given the health benefits of breastfeeding for infants and mothers, breastfeeding has become a significant public health issue. The global growth of mobile phone usage has created new options for breastfeeding promotion, including text messaging. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of text messaging interventions on breastfeeding outcomes and to identify the efficacy moderators of such interventions. METHODS: Ten electronic databases were searched from the inception of the databases to 5 July 2023. Studies were included if they used randomized controlled trials or quasi-experimental designs to evaluate the effect of text messaging interventions on breastfeeding outcomes. Two reviewers screened the included studies, assessed the risk of bias, and extracted the data. Pooled results were obtained by the random-effects model, and subgroup analyses were conducted on intervention characteristics to identify potential moderators. The protocol of this study was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022371311). RESULTS: Sixteen studies were included. Text messaging interventions could improve the exclusive breastfeeding rate (at <3 months: OR = 2.04; 95 % CI: 1.60-2.60, P < 0.001; at 3-6 months: OR = 1.66; 95 % CI: 1.18-2.33, P = 0.004; at ≥6 months: OR = 2.13; 95 % CI: 1.47-3.08, P < 0.001), and the breastfeeding self-efficacy (SMD = 0.30, 95 % CI: 0.14-0.45, P < 0.001). Text messaging interventions that covered antenatal and postnatal periods, delivered weekly were most effective in improving the exclusive breastfeeding rate. CONCLUSIONS: Text messaging interventions may improve breastfeeding practice compared with no or general health information. We suggest text messaging conducted from the pre- to postnatal periods in a weekly manner can effectively increase exclusive breastfeeding rates and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Further studies should investigate the relation between new theories (such as the health action process approach and the theory of message-framing) and efficacy of breastfeeding interventions, using text components.

Exploring South Asian women's perspectives and experiences of maternity care services: A qualitative evidence synthesis.

BACKGROUND: The United Nations Women and other sources have highlighted the poor maternal and neonatal care experienced by South Asian women, emphasizing the need to understand the cultural factors and specific experiences that influence their health-seeking behavior. This understanding is crucial for achieving health equity and improving health outcomes for women and infants. OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine and synthesize qualitative evidence on the perspectives and experiences of South Asian women regarding maternity care services in destination countries. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute's approach. Eight databases were searched for studies capturing the qualitative views and experiences of South Asian women - Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, Global Health, Scopus, PsycInfo, British Nursing Index and the Applied Social Science Index and Abstracts. Qualitative and mixed method studies written in English are included. The methodological quality of the included studies was assessed using the JBI's QARI checklist for qualitative studies and the MMAT checklist for mixed-methods studies. RESULTS: Fourteen studies, including twelve qualitative and two mixed-methods studies, were identified and found to be of high methodological quality. The overarching theme that emerged was "navigating cross-cultural maternity care experiences." This theme encapsulates the challenges and complexities faced by South Asian women in destination countries, including ethnocultural and religious differences, communication and language barriers, understanding different medical systems, and the impact of migration on their maternity care experiences. CONCLUSIONS: South Asian migrant women often have expectations that differ from the services provided in destination countries, leading to challenges in their social relationships. Communication and language barriers pose additional obstacles that can be addressed through strategies promoting better communication and culturally sensitive care. To enhance the utilization of maternity healthcare services, it is important to address these factors and provide personalized, culturally sensitive care for South Asian migrant women.

Key lifestyles and interim health outcomes for effective interventions in general populations: A network analysis of a large international observational study.

Background: The interconnected nature of lifestyles and interim health outcomes implies the presence of the central lifestyle, central interim health outcome and bridge lifestyle, which are yet to be determined. Modifying these factors holds immense potential for substantial positive changes across all aspects of health and lifestyles. We aimed to identify these factors from a pool of 18 lifestyle factors and 13 interim health outcomes while investigating potential gender and occupation differences. Methods: An international cross-sectional study was conducted in 30 countries across six World Health Organization regions from July 2020 to August 2021, with 16 512 adults self-reporting changes in 18 lifestyle factors and 13 interim health outcomes since the pandemic. Results: Three networks were computed and tested. The central variables decided by the expected influence centrality were consumption of fruits and vegetables (centrality = 0.98) jointly with less sugary drinks (centrality = 0.93) in the lifestyles network; and quality of life (centrality = 1.00) co-dominant (centrality = 1.00) with less emotional distress in the interim health outcomes network. The overall amount of exercise had the highest bridge expected influence centrality in the bridge network (centrality = 0.51). No significant differences were found in the network global strength or the centrality of the aforementioned key variables within each network between males and females or health workers and non-health workers (all P-values >0.05 after Holm-Bonferroni correction). Conclusions: Consumption of fruits and vegetables, sugary drinks, quality of life, emotional distress, and the overall amount of exercise are key intervention components for improving overall lifestyle, overall health and overall health via lifestyle in the general population, respectively. Although modifications are needed for all aspects of lifestyle and interim health outcomes, a larger allocation of resources and more intensive interventions were recommended for these key variables to produce the most cost-effective improvements in lifestyles and health, regardless of gender or occupation.

Experiences of expressed human milk feeding: A qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to understand and describe the breastfeeding experiences of Chinese women with a high proportion of expressed human milk feeding. METHODS: A qualitative descriptive design was used to describe the usual practices of expressed human milk feeding among breastfeeding women. We conducted semi-structured, in-depth, one-to-one interviews with participants (N = 25) who had a high proportion of expressed human milk feeding. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS: We identified three main themes: a sense of control, a sense of security, and milk expression challenges. Participants described that expressed human milk feeding provided a greater sense of control over their time and provided more freedom as they were no longer restricted by their infant's feeding schedule. Furthermore, knowing the amount of milk and having a stored milk supply provided a sense of security. However, providing expressed human milk can be time-consuming and has a lower intimacy level when compared with direct breastfeeding. CONCLUSION: Expressed human milk feeding can provide a greater sense of control and was used as an immediate solution to direct breastfeeding problems. However, some participants experienced challenges in expressed human milk feeding, and some preferred breastfeed directly. Therefore, it is crucial to strengthen the breastfeeding support provided in the early postpartum period to ensure that all breastfeeding persons can breastfeed directly.

Effects of Different Exercises on Physical Function, Dialysis Adequacy, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clinical guidelines recommend exercise training for patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). However, the effectiveness of different types of exercise remains uncertain. OBJECTIVES: The aims of the study were to compare and rank the effect of different types of exercise on walking capacity, cardiorespiratory fitness, dialysis adequacy, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in patients undergoing MHD. METHODS: Eight databases (four English and four Chinese) were searched from inception to January 1, 2022. Randomized controlled trials evaluating the efficacy of different exercises for patients undergoing MHD were included. Two independent reviewers screened the literature, extracted data, assessed the risk of bias, and evaluated the certainty of evidence. A frequentist random-effect network meta-analysis was conducted. RESULTS: Ninety trials with 4,084 participants comparing 15 types of exercise were included, reporting on the six-minute walking test (45 trials), peak oxygen uptake (22 trials), dialysis adequacy (30 trials), and HRQOL (23 trials). Network meta-analysis showed that the most effective intervention for walking capacity was intradialytic aerobic exercise combined with blood flow restriction with a mean difference and 95% confidence interval of 97.35 (11.89-182.81), for peak oxygen uptake it was non-intradialytic combined aerobic and resistance exercise with a value of 4.35 (2.25-6.44), for dialysis adequacy it was intradialytic combined aerobic and resistance exercise with a value of 0.17 (0.06-0.28), for the physical component summary of HRQOL it was intradialytic aerobic exercise with a value of 4.93 (2.31-7.54), and for the mental component summary of HRQOL it was non-intradialytic combined aerobic and resistance exercise with a value of 6.36 (0.45-12.27). Ultimately, intradialytic combined aerobic and resistance exercise could improve all the above outcomes compared to usual care. CONCLUSIONS: This study concluded that intradialytic combined aerobic and resistance exercise is optimal for MHD patients due to its significant positive effects on multiple outcomes. Walking capacity can be further enhanced by combining blood flow restriction with exercise. For improving dialysis adequacy, intradialytic exercise proves to be more effective than non-intradialytic exercise. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to investigate the effects of exercise with varying durations, intensities, and frequencies.

Global impacts of COVID-19 on lifestyles and health and preparation preferences: An international survey of 30 countries.

Background: The health area being greatest impacted by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and residents' perspective to better prepare for future pandemic remain unknown. We aimed to assess and make cross-country and cross-region comparisons of the global impacts of COVID-19 and preparation preferences of pandemic. Methods: We recruited adults in 30 countries covering all World Health Organization (WHO) regions from July 2020 to August 2021. 5 Likert-point scales were used to measure their perceived change in 32 aspects due to COVID-19 (-2 = substantially reduced to 2 = substantially increased) and perceived importance of 13 preparations (1 = not important to 5 = extremely important). Samples were stratified by age and gender in the corresponding countries. Multidimensional preference analysis displays disparities between 30 countries, WHO regions, economic development levels, and COVID-19 severity levels. Results: 16 512 adults participated, with 10 351 females. Among 32 aspects of impact, the most affected were having a meal at home (mean (m) = 0.84, standard error (SE) = 0.01), cooking at home (m = 0.78, SE = 0.01), social activities (m = -0.68, SE = 0.01), duration of screen time (m = 0.67, SE = 0.01), and duration of sitting (m = 0.59, SE = 0.01). Alcohol (m = -0.36, SE = 0.01) and tobacco (m = -0.38, SE = 0.01) consumption declined moderately. Among 13 preparations, respondents rated medicine delivery (m = 3.50, SE = 0.01), getting prescribed medicine in a hospital visit / follow-up in a community pharmacy (m = 3.37, SE = 0.01), and online shopping (m = 3.33, SE = 0.02) as the most important. The multidimensional preference analysis showed the European Region, Region of the Americas, Western Pacific Region and countries with a high-income level or medium to high COVID-19 severity were more adversely impacted on sitting and screen time duration and social activities, whereas other regions and countries experienced more cooking and eating at home. Countries with a high-income level or medium to high COVID-19 severity reported higher perceived mental burden and emotional distress. Except for low- and lower-middle-income countries, medicine delivery was always prioritised. Conclusions: Global increasing sitting and screen time and limiting social activities deserve as much attention as mental health. Besides, the pandemic has ushered in a notable enhancement in lifestyle of home cooking and eating, while simultaneously reducing the consumption of tobacco and alcohol. A health care system and technological infrastructure that facilitate medicine delivery, medicine prescription, and online shopping are priorities for coping with future pandemics.

eHealth literacy was associated with anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria: a cross-sectional study.

Background: Electronic health (eHealth) literacy may play an important role in individuals' engagement with online mental health-related information. Aim: To examine associations between eHealth literacy and psychological outcomes among Nigerians during the Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study among Nigerians conducted using the 'COVID-19's impAct on feaR and hEalth (CARE) questionnaire. The exposure: eHealth literacy, was assessed using the eHealth literacy scale, and psychological outcomes were assessed using the PHQ-4 scale, which measured anxiety and depression; and the fear scale to measure fear of COVID-19. We fitted logistic regression models to assess the association of eHealth literacy with anxiety, depression, and fear, adjusting for covariates. We included interaction terms to assess for age, gender, and regional differences. We also assessed participants' endorsement of strategies for future pandemic preparedness. Results: This study involved 590 participants, of which 56% were female, and 38% were 30 years or older. About 83% reported high eHealth literacy, and 55% reported anxiety or depression. High eHealth literacy was associated with a 66% lower likelihood of anxiety (adjusted odds ratio aOR, 0·34; 95% confidence interval, 0·20-0·54) and depression (aOR: 0·34; 95% CI, 0·21-0·56). There were age, gender, and regional differences in the associations between eHealth literacy and psychological outcomes. eHealth-related strategies such as medicine delivery, receiving health information through text messaging, and online courses were highlighted as important for future pandemic preparedness. Conclusion: Considering that mental health and psychological care services are severely lacking in Nigeria, digital health information sources present an opportunity to improve access and delivery of mental health services. The different associations of e-health literacy with psychological well-being between age, gender, and geographic region highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions for vulnerable populations. Policymakers must prioritize digitally backed interventions, such as medicine delivery and health information dissemination through text messaging, to address these disparities and promote equitable mental well-being.