COVID-19 vaccine mistrust, health literacy, conspiracy theories, and racial discrimination among a representative ethnically diverse sample in Canada: The vulnerability of Arab, Asian, Black, and Indigenous peoples.

Despite increased risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections and higher rates of COVID-19-related complications, racialized and Indigenous communities in Canada have lower immunization uptake compared to White individuals. However, there is woeful lack of data on predictors of COVID-19 vaccine mistrust (VM) that accounts for diverse social and cultural contexts within specific racialized and Indigenous communities. Therefore, we sought to characterize COVID-19 VM among Arab, Asian, Black, and Indigenous communities in Canada. An online survey was administered to a nationally representative, ethnically diverse panel of participants in October 2023. Arabic, Asian, Indigenous, and Black respondents were enriched in the sampling panel. Data were collected on demographics, COVID-19 VM, experience of racial discrimination, health literacy, and conspiracy beliefs. We used descriptive and regression analyses to determine the extent and predictors of COVID-19 VM among racialized and Indigenous individuals. All racialized respondents had higher VM score compared to White participants. Among 4220 respondents, we observed highest VM among Black individuals (12.18; ±4.24), followed by Arabic (12.12; ±4.60), Indigenous (11.84; ±5.18), Asian (10.61; ±4.28), and White (9.58; ±5.00) participants. In the hierarchical linear regression analyses, Black participants, women, everyday racial discrimination, and major experience of discrimination were positively associated with COVID-19 VM. Effects of racial discrimination were mediated by addition of conspiracy beliefs to the model. Racialized and Indigenous communities experience varying levels of COVID-19 VM and carry specific predictors and mediators to development of VM. This underscores the intricate interaction between race, gender, discrimination, and VM that need to be considered in future vaccination campaigns.

Sexual Victimization and Sexually Transmitted Infections Among a Nationally Representative Sample of Adolescents and Young Adults in Haiti.

Sexual assault victims are at major risk of being infected by sexually transmitted infections (STI). This article aims to examine and compare the prevalence of eight STIs (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, HIV/AIDS, human papillomavirus) among victims and non-victims of sexual abuse. A national cross-sectional study was conducted in Haiti, using a multistage sampling frame, stratified by geographical department, urban or rural setting, gender, and age groups (15-19 and 20-24 years). The final sample included 3586 household participants (47.6% female). A weighted sample of 3945 individuals was obtained and used in the following analyses. Overall, 21.75% (95% CI 19.91-23.59) of participants reported having been diagnosed with at least one STI in their lifetime, with a higher prevalence among men (25.70%; 95% CI 22.89-28.52), compared to women (18.11%; 95% CI 15.73-20.49), χ2 = 16.43; p < 0.001). Sexual abuse victims were more likely to report STIs (31.27%; 95% CI 29.21-33.34), compared to non-victims (18.40%; 95% CI 16.68-20.13), χ2 = 27.89; p < .001. Sexual abuse was associated to an increased risk of contracting at least one STI (OR = 1.74; 95% CI 1.35, 2.24). The results demonstrate that sexual abuse is associated with a general increase of reporting STIs. They indicate the need for national sexual abuse prevention programs at early ages. These programs should be implemented in schools and churches, focusing on the role of families in sexuality education. Finally, programs must be developed to eradicate community violence-especially in the cities-as increased political and social violence has always been associated with increased sexual abuse in Haiti.

COVID-19 vaccine uptake, conspiracy theories, and health literacy among Black individuals in Canada: Racial discrimination, confidence in health, and COVID-19 stress as mediators.

Factors influencing vaccine uptake in Black individuals remain insufficiently documented. Understanding the role of COVID-19 related stress, conspiracy theories, health literacy, racial discrimination experiences, and confidence in health authorities can inform programs to increase vaccination coverage. We sought to analyze these factors and vaccine uptake among Black individuals in Canada. A representative sample of 2002 Black individuals from Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, British Columbia, and Manitoba, aged 14 years or older completed questionnaires assessing vaccine uptake, health literacy, conspiracy theories, racial discrimination experiences, COVID-19-related stress, and confidence in health authorities. Mediation analyses were conducted to assess (1) the effect of health literacy on COVID-19 vaccination uptake through confidence and need, COVID-19 related traumatic stress, and racial discrimination, and (2) the effect of conspiracy beliefs on COVID-19 vaccination uptake through the same factors. Overall, 69.57% (95% confidence interval, 67.55%-71.59%) of the participants were vaccinated and 83.48% of them received two or more doses. Those aged 55 years and older were less likely to be vaccinated, as well as those residing in British Columbia and Manitoba. Mediation models showed that the association between health literacy and COVID-19 vaccine uptake was mediated by confidence in health authorities (B = 0.02, p < 0.001), COVID-19-related stress (B = -0.02, p < 0.001), and racial discrimination (B = -0.01, p = 0.032), but both direct and total effects were nonsignificant. Lastly, conspiracy beliefs were found to have a partial mediation effect through the same mediators (B = 0.02, p < 0.001, B = -0.02, p < 0.001, B = -0.01, p = 0.011, respectively). These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address vaccine hesitancy and inform approaches to improve access to vaccinations among Black communities.

The state of COVID-19 vaccine confidence and need in Black individuals in Canada: Understanding the role of sociodemographic factors, health literacy, conspiracy theories, traumatic stressors and racial discrimination.

BACKGROUND: Black communities in Canada have been among the most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, in terms of number of infections and deaths. They are also among those most hesitant about vaccination against COVID-19. However, while a few studies have documented the factors associated with COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, those related to vaccine confidence remain unknown. To respond to this gap, this study aims to investigate factors associated to vaccine confidence in Black individuals in Canada. METHODS: A total of 2002 participants (1034 women) aged 14 to 89 years old (Mean age = 29.34, SD = 10.13) completed questionnaires assessing sociodemographic information, COVID-19 vaccine confidence and need, health literacy, conspiracy beliefs, major racial discrimination, and traumatic stressors related to COVID-19. RESULTS: Results showed an average score of COVID-19 vaccine confidence and need of 33.27 (SD = 7.24), with no significant difference between men (33.48; SD = 7.24) and women (33.08; SD = 7.91), t (1999) = 1.19, p = 0.234. However, there were significant differences according to employment status, migration status, age, inhabited province, spoken language, education, marital status, religion, and income. The linear regression model explained 25.8 % of the variance and showed that health literacy (B = 0.12, p < 0.001) and traumatic stressors related to COVID-19 (B = 0.21, p < .001) predicted COVID-19 vaccine confidence and need positively, while conspiracy beliefs (B = -1.14, p < 0.001) and major racial discrimination (B = -0.20, p = 0.044) predicted it negatively. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that building the confidence of Black communities in vaccines requires health education, elimination of racial discrimination in the Canadian society and a focus on certain groups (e.g., young people, those living in Quebec and Ontario). The results also argue in favor of involving community leaders and organizations in the development and implementation of vaccination-related tools, strategies and programs by city, provincial and federal public health agencies.

Prevalence and determinants of anxiety, depression and comorbid anxiety-depression symptoms among adolescents in Ebola-affected zones.

BACKGROUND: Ebola virus disease (EVD) has been shown to be associated with poor mental health in affected zones. However, no study has yet explored its impact on adolescents' mental health. AIMS: This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with depression and anxiety symptoms among adolescents in EVD-affected areas in the Equateur Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHOD: A provincial sample of adolescents aged 12-17 years (M = 14.84, s.d. = 1.49) living in the 18 urban and rural areas affected by the 2018 EVD outbreak completed a two-wave longitudinal survey. Surveys assessed symptoms of depression and anxiety, exposure to Ebola, social support and sociodemographic information. RESULTS: A total of 490 participants completed the baseline and follow-up surveys, 50% of whom were female. Elevated and worsened depressive symptoms were observed among participants from the baseline (56.94%) to the follow-up (91.43%; z = -11.37, P < 0.001), whereas anxiety symptoms decreased from the baseline (36.33%) to follow-up (24.90%; z = 4.06, P < 0.001). The final generalised estimating equation model showed that anxiety symptoms decreased over time (B = -3.92, P < 0.001), while depression symptoms increased (B = 4.79, P < 0.001). Stigmatisation related to Ebola positively predicted anxiety (B = 5.41, P < 0.001) and depression symptoms (B = 0.4452, P = 0.009). Social support negatively predicted anxiety (B = -1.13, P = 0.004) and depression (B = -0.98, P < 0.001) symptoms but only moderated the association between stigmatisation and depression symptoms (B = -0.67, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Most adolescents living in EVD-affected areas experience mental health issues. Stigmatisation related to EVD and living in urban areas are the most consistent predictors of mental health problems. Nevertheless, social support remains a protective factor for depression and anxiety symptoms and a necessary resource for building resilience.

Prevalence and Factors Related to Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Depression Symptoms Among Children and Adolescents Survivors and Orphans of Ebola Virus Disease in Democratic Republic of the Congo Eastern Regions During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

PURPOSE: Although previous studies have shown a high prevalence of mental health problems among adult Ebola virus disease survivors, no studies have yet been conducted on mental health problems among children and adolescents in affected regions. Consequently, the current study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among children and adolescent survivors and orphans by utilizing a cross-sectional survey following the 2018-2020 epidemic in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. METHODS: A total of 146 survivors (mean age = 13.62, standard deviation [SD] = 2.50, 49.32% female), 233 orphans (mean age = 13.18, SD = 2.96, 53.32% female), and 34 orphan-survivor participants (mean age = 13.39, SD = 2.87, 44.12% female) were recruited. Participants completed measures assessing depression and PTSD symptoms, traumatic experiences, and stigma related to Ebola and COVID-19. RESULTS: The prevalence of depression and PTSD symptoms was 87.32% and 44.42%, respectively. Results showed significant differences in depression and PTSD symptoms between orphan-survivors (100% and 97.06%), survivors (90.21% and 75.86%), and orphans (83.48% and 16.52%; χ2(2) = 9.02; p = .011 and χ2(2) = 168.85; p < .001). Experience of traumatic events, Ebola stigmatization, and COVID-19 stigmatization positively predicted depression and PTSD symptoms. The regression models explained 61%-72% of the variance of depression and PTSD. DISCUSSION: The results reveal that the Ebola virus disease and its associated grief severely jeopardize the mental health of children and adolescents in affected regions. Despite the relative paucity of resources, intervention programs may be helpful to minimize associated stigma and promote psychological support.

Prevalence and determinants of depression, anxiety, and stress symptoms among Black individuals in Canada in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has disproportionately affected Black communities in Canada in terms of infection, hospitalizations, and mortality rates. It exacerbated social, economic, and health disparities that can impact their mental health. We investigated the prevalence and predictors of symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress in Black individuals in Canada. A community-representative weighted sample of 2002 Black individuals (51.66% women) aged 14 to 94 years old (Mean age 29.34; SD = 10.13). Overall, 40.94%, 44.50%, and 31.36% of participants were classified as having clinically meaningful anxiety, depression, and stress levels, respectively, based on DASS scores. Men (45.92%) reported a higher prevalence of anxiety than women (36.27%), χ2 (1) = 19.24, p<.001, but similar symptoms of depression and stress. The progression of the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms were consistent with the progression of the prevalence of everyday racial discrimination. After controlling for socio-demographic variables, regression models showed that everyday discrimination (B = 0.14, p=.001, B = 0.14, p= .006, B = 0.18, p< .001), major experiences of racial discrimination (B = 0.30, p=.046, B = 0.34, p= .033, B = 0.35, p=.024), and COVID-19 traumatic stressors (B = 0.43, p<.001, B = 0.43, p< .001, B = 0.44, p< .001) were positively associated with anxiety, while community resilience (B= -0.02, p= .039, B= -0.04, p= .001, B= -0.03, p= .014) was negatively associated with anxiety, depression, and stress, respectively. This study demonstrates the need to address racial discrimination in implementing prevention and intervention programs among Black individuals and to consider intersectional factors related to age, birthplace, language spoken, and province of residence.

Incidence, Racial Disparities and Factors Related to Psychosis among Black Individuals in Canada: A Scoping Review.

OBJECTIVE: Black communities are increasingly concerned about psychosis, a worry echoed by provincial health-care systems across Canada. Responding to the lack of evidence on psychosis in Black communities, this scoping review examined the incidence and prevalence of psychosis, access to care (pathways to care, coercive referrals, interventions, etc.), treatments received, and stigma faced by individuals with psychosis. METHOD: To identify studies, a comprehensive search strategy was developed and executed in December 2021 across 10 databases, including APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, MEDLINE and Web of Science. Subject headings and keywords relating to Black communities, psychosis, health inequalities, Canada and its provinces and territories were used and combined. The scoping review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses for Scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) reporting standard. RESULTS: A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria, all of them conducted in Ontario and Quebec. Results highlight different disparities in psychosis among Black communities. Compared to other Canadian ethnic groups, Black individuals are more likely to be diagnosed with psychosis. Black individuals with psychosis are more likely to have their first contact with health-care settings through emergency departments, to be referred by police and ambulance services, and to experience coercive referrals and interventions, and involuntary admission. Black individuals experience a lower quality of care and are the ethnic group most likely to disengage from treatment. CONCLUSION: This scoping review reveals many gaps in research, prevention, promotion and intervention on psychosis in Black individuals in Canada. Future studies should explore factors related to age, gender, social and economic factors, interpersonal, institutional and systemic racism, and psychosis-related stigma. Efforts should be directed toward developing trainings for health-care professionals and promotion and prevention programs within Black communities. Culturally adapted interventions, racially disaggregated data, and increased research funding are needed.

Vaccine mistrust among Black individuals in Canada: The major role of health literacy, conspiracy theories, and racial discrimination in the healthcare system.

The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected Black communities in Canada in terms of infection and mortality rates compared to the general population. Despite these facts, Black communities are among those with the highest level of COVID-19 vaccine mistrust (COVID-19 VM). We collected novel data to analyze the sociodemographic characteristics and factors associated with COVID-19 VM among Black communities in Canada. A survey was conducted among a representative sample of 2002 Black individuals (51.66% women) aged 14-94 years (M = 29.34; SD = 10.13) across Canada. Vaccine mistrust was assessed as the dependent variable and conspiracy theories, health literacy, major racial discrimination in healthcare settings, and sociodemographic characteristics of participants were assessed as independent variables. Those with a history of COVID-19 infection had higher COVID-19 VM score (M = 11.92, SD = 3.88) compared to those with no history of infection (M = 11.25, SD = 3.83), t (1999) = -3.85, p < 0.001. Participants who reported having experienced major racial discrimination in healthcare settings were more likely to report COVID-19 VM (M = 11.92, SD = 4.03) than those who were not (M = 11.36, SD = 3.77), t (1999) = -3.05, p = 0.002. Results also showed significant differences for age, education level, income, marital status, provinces, language, employment status, and religion. The final hierarchical linear regression showed that conspiracy beliefs (B = 0.69, p < 0.001) were positively associated with COVID-19 VM, while health literacy (B = -0.05, p = 0.002) was negatively associated with it. The mediated moderation model showed that conspiracy theories completely mediated the association between racial discrimination and vaccine mistrust (B = 1.71, p < 0.001). This association was also completely moderated by the interaction between racial discrimination and health literacy (B = 0.42, p = 0.008), indicating that despite having a high level of health literacy, those who experienced major racial discrimination in health services developed vaccine mistrust. This first study on COVID-19 VM exclusively among Black individuals in Canada provides data that can significantly impact the development of tools, trainings, strategies, and programs to make the health systems free of racism and increase their confidence in vaccination for COVID-19 and other infectious diseases.

Frequency and factors related to substance use among Black individuals aged 15-40 years old in Canada: The role of everyday racial discrimination.

OBJECTIVE: Despite evidence that Black individuals are confronted with various types of racial discrimination that put them at risk for alcohol and substance use disorders, no study in Canada has assessed the frequency and factors related to substance use in Black communities. This study thus aims to examine the frequency and factors related to substance use in Black communities in Canada. METHOD: A total of 845 Black individuals in Canada (76.6% female) completed questionnaires assessing substance use (i.e., alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs), everyday racial discrimination, resilience, religious involvement, and sociodemographic information. Multivariable regression analyses were used to determine factors related to substance use among Black individuals. RESULTS: The findings showed that 14.8% (95% CI [8.60, 20.94]) of participants reported using any substance (i.e., alcohol, cannabis, and other drugs) in the past 12 months. Men reported a significantly higher frequency of substance use than women (25.7% vs. 11.1%; x² = 27.67, p < .001). Everyday racial discrimination (ß = .27, p < .001) and place of birth (born in Canada, ß = .14, p < .001) were positively associated with substance use, whereas it was negatively associated with religiosity, resilience, and gender (being a female; ß = -.08, p < .05; ß = -.21, p < .001; ß = -.12, p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Racial discrimination is associated with substance use among Black individuals in Canada. The study findings inform potential prevention and intervention strategies by examining protective factors related to substance use (e.g., religiosity, resilience, gender) among Black individuals. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

Lifetime and Child Sexual Violence, Risk Factors and Mental Health Correlates Among a Nationally Representative Sample of Adolescents and Young Adults in Haiti: A Public Health Emergency.

Very little is known in Haiti and the Caribbean regarding child and lifetime sexual victimization. Using a nationally representative sample of adolescents and young adults aged 15-24, this study aimed to document the prevalence, risk factors and mental health correlates of lifetime and child sexual violence in Haiti. A national cross-sectional surrvey was conducted in Haiti, using a multistage sampling frame, stratified by geographical department, urban or rural setting, gender, and age groups (15-19 and 20-24 years). The final sample included 3586 household participants (47.6% female). A weighted sample of 3945 individuals was obtained and used in the following analyses. Overall rate of lifetime and child sexual violence was, respectively, 27.44% (95% CI 25.94-28.94) and 11.27% (95% CI 10.18-12.35). Lifetime sexual violence rate was significantly higher among female participants (29.02%; 95% CI 27.5-30.55) compared to male (25.73%, 95% CI 24.26-27.2), χ2 = 4.63, p < .05, but there was no significant gender difference for child sexual victimization. Experiences of family physical violence, emotional abuse by mother and father, divorce of parents, and other physical violence were strongly associated with higher odds of sexual victimization. Participants who reported having experienced sexual violence are more at risk to meet criteria of PTSD (OR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.66-2.32; p < .0001), depression (OR = 1.73, 95% CI 1.47-2.02; p < .0001), psychological distress (OR =1.72, 95% CI 1.47-2.02; p < .0001), and substance abuse (OR = 1.33, 95% CI 1.13-1.57; p < .0001). Findings demonstrate that sexual violence is a public health emergency in Haiti. They provide evidence for the development of prevention and intervention programs.

Prevalence of Current PTSD Symptoms Among a Sample of Black Individuals Aged 15 to 40 in Canada: The Major Role of Everyday Racial Discrimination, Racial Microaggresions, and Internalized Racism.

OBJECTIVE: Most Black individuals in Canada report having experienced racial discrimination. Although previous studies have shown that there is a strong relationship between racial discrimination and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), no studies in Canada have documented this association among Black individuals. The present study documents (1) the prevalence of PTSD among Black individuals using data from the Black Communities Mental Health project and (2) risk factors associated with PTSD, including racial microaggressions, everyday racial discrimination, and internalized racism. METHOD: A total of 860 participants (75.6% of women) aged 15 to 40 years old (M = 24.96, SD = 6.29) completed questionnaires assessing PTSD, experience of traumatic events, racial microaggressions, everyday racial discrimination, and internalized racism. RESULTS: Findings showed that 95.1% of participants reported exposure to at least one traumatic event during their lifetime. In total, 67.11% of participants reported probable PTSD with no significant difference between men and women (68.2% and 67.8%, χ2 = 0.132, p = 0.72). Participants born in Canada were more likely to experience significant PTSD symptoms, compared to those born abroad (70.92% and 53.14%, χ2 = 19.69, p < 0.001). A multivariable linear regression model of PTSD symptoms was computed using sociodemographic variables and exposure to traumatic events as independent variables, which explained 25.9% of the variance. In addition to these variables, a second model included racial microaggressions, everyday racial microaggressions, and internalized racism, which explained 51.8% of the variance. The model showed that traumatic events (b = 0.6; p = 0.02), racial microaggressions (b = 0.5; p < 0.001), everyday discrimination (b = 0.2; p = 0.03) and internalized racism (b = 0.5; p < 0.001) were positively associated with PTSD symptoms. CONCLUSIONS: This article highlights the detrimental consequences of racial discrimination against Black people in Canada. Prevention and mental health programs aimed at mitigating its consequences on the lives of Black people and other racialized populations must be implemented.

Social mobilization, education, and prevention of the Ebola virus disease: A scoping review.

The Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) remains a global public health concern with multiple outbreaks over the last five years. This scoping review aimed to synthesize the current state of knowledge on awareness, education, and community mobilization programs on EVD prevention. A comprehensive search strategy was executed in October 2021 across eight databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, Global Health, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science). According to the PRISMA flow diagram, out of the 4815 studies generated by the search, 33 were retained for extraction and were included in this scoping review. Findings revealed that cultural practices that increased the risk of Ebola transmission remain very prevalent, even educational and awareness campaigns. Levels of Ebola-related knowledge by community members varied widely. A large proportion of the Ebola-affected populations were not aware of modes of transmission and half were unaware of signs and symptoms. Interventions with deep community mobilization, collaboration and engagement were effective in changing cultural practices, and reducing rates of infection. Interventions in the health sector helped increase willingness to practice preventive methods and the maintenance of social distancing and patient handwashing. A majority of the population members received their information about EVD from the community and mass media (in most instances, through broadcasting stations). Community interventions with a collaborative approach are effective to prevent EVD. It is needed to build trust between communities and health care, but also to use local resources and cultural factors combined with the use of technologies of information to prevent EVD.

Prevalence and risk factors associated with psychostimulant use among Black individuals: A meta-analysis and systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Psychostimulants (e.g., cocaine, amphetamine) are among the most widely used drugs globally with detrimental short and long-term physical, psychological and social consequences. There is limited data on psychostimulant use for various racial and ethnic groups, including Black people, and the challenges they face living as minorities overcoming historical challenges including increased incarceration associated with drug possession. METHODS: Peer-reviewed articles were identified in five databases (APA PsycInfo, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, MEDLINE). Eligible studies were published in French or English, provided empiral data on psychostimulant use in Black individuals living in a minority context. The PRISMA guideline was used for structuring the review. Random-effects meta-analyses were generated to estimate the pooled prevalence of lifetime and periodic psychostimulant use among Black individuals using STATA 16. RESULTS: Sixty-three studies published from 1991 to 2022 with a sample size of 139,683 Black individuals were included in the current meta-analysis. Results indicate a pooled prevalence estimate of 11.4% for any form of psychostimulant use among Black individuals. The pooled prevalence estimates were 12.4% (95% CI, 8.4% - 16.4%) for cocaine, 8.3% (95% CI, 0% - 19.1%) for amphetamines, and 11.4% (95% CI, 4.6% - 18.1%) for other stimulants. Prediction intervals for all psychostimulant types were highly heterogenous ranging from 0% to as high as 51.2% for amphetamine suggesting prevalence of use in some studies of Black people could be found to be as low as zero. Subgroup analyses were conducted to examine differences between age groups, gender, reference period, and type of assessment. CONCLUSIONS: High prevalence rates of psychostimulant use among Black people argues for greater access to evidence-based treatments. However, current psychosocial interventions are suboptimal, warranting further study. Consideration needs to be given to the challenges of the large range of prediction intervals, living in urban areas, racial discrimination experiences, race-based stress, and sociodemographic characteristics, including poverty, education level, age, gender.

Incidence, factors, and disparities related to cancer among Black individuals in Canada: A scoping review.

BACKGROUND: In Canada, two of five individuals will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime and one in four will die from this disease. Given the disparities observed in health research among Black individuals, we conducted a scoping review to analyze the state of cancer research in Canadian Black communities regarding prevalence, incidence, screening, mortality, and related factors to observe advances and identify gaps and disparities. METHODS: A comprehensive search strategy was developed and executed in December 2021 across 10 databases (e.g., Embase). Of 3451 studies generated by the search, 19 were retained for extraction and included in this study. RESULTS: Studies were focused on a variety of cancer types among Black individuals including anal, breast, cervical, colorectal, gastric, lung, and prostate cancers. They included data on incidence, stage of cancer at diagnosis, type of care received, diagnostic interval length, and screening. A few studies also demonstrated racial disparities among Black individuals. This research reveals disparities in screening, incidence, and quality of care among Black individuals in Canada. CONCLUSIONS: Given the gaps observed in cancer studies among Black individuals, federal and provincial governments and universities should consider creating special funds to generate research on this important health issue. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Important gaps were observed on research on cancer among Black communities in Canada. Studies included in the scoping review highlights disparities in screening, incidence, and quality of care among Black individuals in Canada.

A Systematic Review on Vaccine Hesitancy in Black Communities in Canada: Critical Issues and Research Failures.

Black communities have been disproportionately impacted by Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Canada, in terms of both number of infections and mortality rates. Yet, according to early studies, vaccine hesitancy appears to be higher in Black communities. The purpose of this systematic review is to examine the prevalence and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy in Black communities in Canada. Peer-reviewed studies published from 11 March 2020 to 26 July 2022, were searched through eleven databases: APA PsycInfo (Ovid), Cairn.info, Canadian Business & Current Affairs (ProQuest), CPI.Q (Gale OneFile), Cochrane CENTRAL (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), Érudit, Global Health (EBSCOhost), MEDLINE (Ovid), and Web of Science (Clarivate). Eligible studies were published in French or English and had empirical data on the prevalence or factors associated with vaccine hesitancy in samples or subsamples of Black people. Only five studies contained empirical data on vaccine hesitancy in Black individuals and were eligible for inclusion in this systematic review. Black individuals represented 1.18% (n = 247) of all included study samples (n = 20,919). Two of the five studies found that Black individuals were more hesitant to be vaccinated against COVID-19 compared to White individuals, whereas the other three found no significant differences. The studies failed to provide any evidence of factors associated with vaccine hesitancy in Black communities. Despite national concerns about vaccine hesitancy in Black communities, a color-blind approach is still predominant in Canadian health research. Of about 40 studies containing empirical data on vaccine hesitancy in Canada, only five contained data on Black communities. None analyzed factors associated with vaccine hesitancy in Black communities. Policies and strategies to strengthen health research in Black communities and eliminate the color-blind approach are discussed.

Perceived racial discrimination, psychosomatic symptoms, and resilience among Black individuals in Canada: A moderated mediation model.

OBJECTIVE: Although no study has explored psychosomatic symptoms in Black communities in Canada, several studies in the United States showed that psychological distress is often express as physical pain among African Americans. Using a cross-sectional design, the present study documents the frequency of psychosomatic symptoms and its association to racial discrimination, and resilience among Black individuals aged 15 to 40 in Canada. METHOD: A total of 860 participants (Mage = 25.0 years, SD = 6.3), predominantly born in Canada (79.1%) and women (75.6%), completed the Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (somatization subscale), the Everyday Discrimination Scale, and the Resilience Scale-14. RESULTS: Findings revealed that 81.7% of participants experienced psychosomatic symptoms, with higher prevalence among women (84.2%) compared to men (70.7%;), ꭓ2 = 21.5, p < .001; participants aged 25 to 40 years old (93.7%) compared to those aged 15-24 years old (75.2%) (ꭓ2 = 45.0, p < .001). Participants reporting greater racial discrimination had more psychosomatic symptoms (89.4%) compared to others (72.9%), ꭓ2 = 39.2, p < .001). A moderated mediation model showed that everyday racial discrimination was positively associated with psychosomatic symptoms (B = 0.1, SE = 0.01, p < .001). The model showed that the association between racial discrimination and psychosomatic symptoms was partially mediated by resilience (B = -0.01, SE = 0.0, p < .01), and negatively moderated by gender (B = -0.04, SE = 0.01, p < .01). In other words, being a woman is associated with higher levels of psychosomatic symptoms among those who have experienced racial discrimination. CONCLUSION: By highlighting the association between racial discrimination and psychosomatic symptoms and the role of resilience and gender in this relation, this article reveals important factors to integrate to improve healthcare services, prevention, and interventions among Black individuals with psychosomatic symptoms.

The global evolution of mental health problems during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted mental health, but the global evolution of mental health problems during the pandemic is unknown. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal studies to evaluate the global evolution of mental health problems during the pandemic. METHODS: To conduct this systematic review, we searched for published articles from APA PsycInfo (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase (Ovid), MEDLINE (Ovid), and Web of Science. Longitudinal (at least 2 waves during the COVID-19 pandemic) and peer-reviewed articles on mental health problems conducted as from 2020 and after were included in the current study. Of 394 eligible full texts, 64 articles were included in the analysis. We computed random effects, standardized mean differences, and log odds ratio (LOR) with 95 % CIs. The meta-analysis protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021273624). RESULTS: Results showed that anxiety (LOR = -0.33; 95 % CI, -0.54, -0.12) and depression symptoms (LOR = -0.12; 95 % CI, -0.21, -0.04) decreased from baseline to follow up. However, other mental health problems showed no change. Higher prevalence rates (40.9 %; 95 % CI, 16.1 %-65.8 %) of psychological distress were found in months after July 2020, respectively, while there were no significant month differences for the prevalence of other mental health problems. Higher means of anxiety (d = 3.63, 95 % CI, 1.66, 5.61), depression (d = 3.93; 95 % CI, 1.68, 6.17), and loneliness (d = 5.96; 95 % CI, 3.22, 8.70) were observed in May 2020. Higher prevalence of anxiety, depression, and PTSD and higher means of anxiety, depression and loneliness were observed in North America. The prevalence of psychological distress and insomnia was higher in Latin America and Europe, respectively. LIMITATIONS: There is a lack of longitudinal studies in some parts of the world, such as Africa, the Caribbean, India, the Middle East, in Latin America, and Asia. CONCLUSIONS: Results indicated that anxiety and depression symptoms decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic while other mental health problems showed no statistical change. The findings reveal that mental health problems peaked in April and May 2020. Prevalence of mental health problems remains high during the pandemic and mental health prevention, promotion and intervention programs should be implemented to mitigate the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the global population.

Mental distress before and during the COVID-19 pandemic: A longitudinal study among communities affected by Ebola virus disease in the DR Congo.

BACKGROUND: Associated with high mortality rate, fear, and anxiety, Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) is a significant risk factor for mental distress. This longitudinal study aims to investigate the prevalence and predictors associated with mental distress among populations affected by EVD outbreaks in the Province of Equateur in DR Congo. METHODS: Surveys were administered in zones affected by the 2018 EVD outbreak in Equateur Province with a 16-month interval. Measures assessed sociodemographic characteristics, mental distress (GHQ-12), COVID-19 and EVD exposure and related stigmatization, and Resilience. Models of logistic regression and path analysis were used to estimate factors related to mental distress outcomes. RESULTS: Prevalence of mental distress decreased from Wave 1 to Wave 2 (Mental distressT1= 57.04%, Mental distressT2= 40.29%, x2= 23.981, p<.001). Clinical mental distress score at follow-up was predicted by greater levels of exposure to Ebola at baseline (B= .412, p<.001) and at Wave 2 (B= .453, p<.001) as well as Ebola stigmatization at baseline (B= .752, p<.001), and Protestant religion (B= .474, p=.038). Clinical mental distress score at follow-up was significantly associated with higher levels of exposure to COVID-19 (B= .389, p=.002) and COVID-19 related stigmatization (B= .480, p<.001). COVID-19 related stigmatization partially mediated the association between exposure to EVD (Time 1) and mental distress (B= .409, p<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Although a decrease in mental distress symptoms was observed, its prevalence remains high. The results show that mental health programs need to develop better health and education communication strategies to reduce stigmatization.

Severe Anxiety and PTSD Symptoms Among Ebola Virus Disease Survivors and Healthcare Workers in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic in Eastern DR Congo.

Ebola virus disease (EVD) survivors and healthcare workers (HCWs) face stress, fear, and stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic that can induce severe symptoms of anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We examined the prevalence and factors related to severe PTSD and anxiety symptoms, using a representative sample of survivors of the 2018-2020 EVD epidemic in DR Congo in comparison HCWs. Five hundred sixty-three participants (55.25% women, 309 survivors, 202 HCWs, and 52 HCWs and survivors) completed questionnaires assessing anxiety, PTSD, exposure to EVD and COVID-19, stigmatization related to EVD and COVID-19, interpersonal traumas, social support. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 45.6 and 75.0% of survivors and HCWs reported severe symptoms of PTSD and anxiety. Significant difference was observed among the three groups for both PTSD (53.7% survivors, 37.1% HCWs, and 30.8% HCWs-survivors, χ2= 18.67, p < 0.0001) and anxiety (88.3% survivors, 56.9% HCWs, and 65.4% HCWs- survivors, χ2= 67.03, p < 0.0001). Comorbidity of severe PTSD and anxiety symptoms was 42.3% between the three groups. Results revealed that exposure to EVD (b = 0.53; p = 0.001; b = 0.12; p = 0.042), EVD-related stigmatization (b = 0.14; p = 0.018; b = 0.07; p = 0.006), COVID-19-related stigmatization (b = 0.22; p < 0.0001; b = 0.08; p = 0.0001) and social support (b = -0.30; p < 0.0001; b = -0.14; p < 0.0001) predicted severe PTSD and anxiety symptoms. The last models explained 63.8 and 56.4% of the variance of PTSD and anxiety. Symptoms of PTSD and anxiety are common among EVD survivors and HCWs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Culturally-sensitive programs that address stigma are necessary to mitigate the cumulative effects of EVD and the COVID-19 pandemic on EVD survivors and HCWs.