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Objective: Schools are important settings for health promotion. In schools, children and adolescents can be reached regardless of their social background, which represents a unique opportunity for promoting health. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of school leadership in initiating and sustaining health promotion; however, efforts to systematically review the influence of school leadership on school health promotion are still lacking. Hence, this paper analyses empirical studies published in scientific journals on school leadership and health promotion in schools. Design: Systematic literature review. Method: Informed by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines, a review was conducted using two main databases: Web of Science and Scopus, which retrieved 51 eligible articles. Results: The review of these articles resulted in the identification of seven main themes -- school leaders' health; attitudes, knowledge and behaviour; accountability; support from school leaders; shared leadership approaches; capacity building and parent engagement. Conclusion: This systematic literature review expands the literature by highlighting the school leadership factors that promote school health promotion in Oceania, Europe, North America, South America, Africa and Asia continents. Future systematic literature reviews could explore studies and different aspects of health promotion by teachers, especially in the Asian context.

Introduction: The increasing prevalence of overweight, defined as excessive body weight, among different population groups is one of the most serious public health problems that Poland has to face. The aim of this paper was to review the recent data regarding the nutritional status of subpopulations of children, adolescents and adults in Poland. Material and methods: The search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Sciences databases, as well as official websites of the Polish Ministry of Health, the National Institute of Public Health NIH - National Research Institute and the World Health Organization. Scientific publications in English and Polish, published between January 2020 and September 2023, were used as sources of information. Results: The prevalence of overweight among children, adolescents and adults in Poland is relatively high. However, it should be noted that most studies were observational, the methods used for data collection varied (self-reported vs. measured), and BMI was a tool to measure body weight status. The prevalence of overweight among the paediatric population varies from 11% to 45%. Among adults, the prevalence of overweight exceeds 62% for men and 43% for women. The prevalence of higher-than-normal body mass increases with age. The COVID-19 pandemic increased the risk of abnormal body weight among both paediatric and adult populations. Conclusions: Early prevention is essential in dealing with excessive body weight and the adverse health outcomes that may result therefrom. To address the weight gain problem across different populations, comprehensive and family-based obesity prevention programmes should be implemented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although leisure constraints that individuals have to cope with can negatively affect their social inclusion and satisfaction with life, little research has addressed the link between these variables. Therefore, the current paper examined the moderator role of leisure constraints on the relationship between satisfaction with life and leisure constraints among adults living in five different European countries. The respondents were 1,382 women and 877 men adults. The findings of analysis revealed that all factors used in the study accounted for 15% of the variance in satisfaction with life and social inclusion had a significant and positive impact on satisfaction with life. As a result, it can be said that leisure constraints had a moderating effect on the relationship between satisfaction with life and social inclusion. The present research study recommends that social inclusion should be encouraged through decreasing to leisure constraints to increase the life satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insufficient physical activity (PA) is one of major risk factors for serious diseases and premature mortality worldwide. Public policies to enhance PA across society are recognized as an effective tool against the problem. This paper presents the results of a comprehensive assessment of national-level PA policy approach in Poland. A standardized survey of Word Health Organization named the Health-Enhancing Physical Activity Policy Audit Tool (HEPA PAT) was used for data collection. Content analysis and strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats analysis (SWOT) were used to characterize various PA policy aspects, to appraise the current situation, and accommodate organizational and environmental factors that it is influenced by. The results show that the national PA policy approach has been constantly developing in Poland, but there is room for improvement in a number of areas. The most important weaknesses are the lack of clear leadership, no mechanisms in place to coordinate efforts undertaken at different levels, and lack of collaboration across different levels of government and across different sectors of economy. Providing an umbrella covering all PA promotion policies and activities is, therefore, a key issue to be addressed. The country should seize the opportunity coming from an increasing awareness of a healthy lifestyle among Polish society.

This paper presents the methodology and results of Poland's 2022 Report Card on physical activity (PA) of children and adolescents, as part of the Global Matrix (GM) 4.0 project. The aim of this paper is to discuss the current state of PA of children and adolescents in Poland. Grades were assigned to ten indicators of behaviors, physical fitness and sources of influence or settings, based on a synthesis of the best available data. In Poland two indicators: Overall Physical Activity (OPA) and Active Play were not assessed. Out of the other indicators, School received the highest score B+, whereas the other indicators had generally moderate to weak scores (between C+ and D). Scores for Organized Sport and Physical Activity, School and Physical Fitness indicators were improved compared with the previous GM, whereas scores for Active Transport and Government were lower. No positive changes regarding OPA or Sedentary Behaviors were observed. One of the limitations of PA promotion in Poland is that government-level PA policies are overly focused on organized PA and sport. Recommendations for improving PA monitoring in Poland, influencing PA behaviors and strengthening PA settings and sources of influence are also discussed.

The COVID-19 pandemic has raised global concerns about the impact of misinformation on health behavior and outcomes. New technologies and social media have provided tools to disseminate health information on an unprecedented scale, but they can also be used to spread unfounded claims and erroneous information. Recent studies have shown how misinformation can influence preventive health behaviors and impact some groups more than others. The past several decades of experience with tobacco control provides some useful lessons in addressing misinformation. Even after the 1964 report of the Surgeon General which concluded that smoking was a cause of lung cancer, public beliefs about the harms of smoking were slow to change. For several decades, the tobacco industry actively promoted misleading claims about the science of smoking and health. Studies of tobacco prevention programs have demonstrated how attention is needed not only to the information content conveyed but also how it is communicated. The experience of tobacco control over the past several decades provides useful lessons in effective communication and combating misinformation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suicide is a significant public health concern globally, with its varying rates influenced by numerous factors, including seasonal changes. Online search behaviors, particularly searches related to suicide and mental health, have been proposed as real-time indicators of suicidal ideation in populations. In this study, a cross-sectional time series analysis was conducted, utilizing data on suicide attempts from the Polish Police Headquarters and online search behavior from Google Trends over a decade. Suicide attempt data were analyzed alongside the frequency of Google searches for suicide-related keywords derived from the Polish Corpus of Suicide Notes. A total of 66 keywords were selected for analysis to identify seasonal trends and patterns in search behavior. The study employed linear regression, Seasonal Mann-Kendall tests, and TBATS models to analyze the data. Suicide rates show seasonal patterns, peaking in warmer months. However, keyword searches did not strongly correlate with peak suicide months. This study enhances our understanding of suicide-related search trends and their potential connection to suicide rates. It suggests avenues for more effective prevention efforts and the potential for future algorithms to predict suicide rates and identify at-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although postpartum sexual problems are common, there is a poor understanding of the underlying influencing factors and the impact of the infant feeding method on the mother's sexual life. A cross-sectional control study was conducted with a group of 253 women during their postpartum period. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different infant feeding methods on female sexual life after childbirth. The study followed the STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional control analysis. The study design included a questionnaire characterizing sociodemographic, obstetric and breastfeeding variables and the PL-FSFI (Female Sexual Function Index). The authors collected the data in compliance with the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) research methodology—an interview conducted via an Internet channel. Each respondent received and completed the survey provided to them via the same online link. This study included women in the postpartum period: 170 breastfeeding women (study group) and 83 formula-feeding women (control group). There were statistically significant difference between the groups that practiced different types of breastfeeding. Out of all the PL-FSFI-assessing domains, the highest average score for the whole group correlated with satisfaction and the lowest score correlated with lubrication use. Our findings indicate that women practicing only breastfeeding are more likely to develop sexual problems. In order to maintain sexual health and promote long-term breastfeeding, extensive and professional counseling is needed for couples about postpartum sexuality and the factors that affect it, such as breastfeeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Knowledge of dietary patterns is crucial for dietary behaviours interventions. Objectives. The aim of the study was to describe the dietary patterns of children between the ages of 6-10 years from primary schools in Lesser Poland. Material and methods. The study was carried out between 2008-2012 and included 1,140 children and their parents. The questionnaire for parents included socio-economic questions about the family, parents' education and frequency of consuming selected food products by children. The Food Frequency Questionnaire covered 21 selected food groups, and fast food and snacking were also asked about. Based on anthropometric measurements, the body mass index (BMI) was calculated for each child. Factor analysis and cluster analysis were used to identify individual dietary patterns of children. Results. Three cluster groups were distinguished showing the eating patterns of the children. Children from cluster 1 (healthy) showed the most health-promoting model of nutrition. They often consumed butter, vegetable oils, groats, pasta and rice, wholemeal bread, fish and fish products, red meat, eggs, raw vegetables, cooked vegetables, pulses, unsalted nuts and yellow cheese. The cluster representing the mixed feeding model (2) least frequently consumed salty snacks. Children from cluster 3 (unhealthy) more often consumed chips, crisps and salty sticks than cluster 2 and were more often overweight and obese than children from cluster 1. The education level and average monthly income were significantly higher in the families of children from the healthy cluster compared with those from the unhealthy cluster. Conclusions. Dietary patterns in children are influenced by socio-economic and parental education factors. Overweight and obese children presented unhealthy nutrition behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although biomedical research requires cooperation with a large number of donors, its success also depends on the input of healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in promoting biomedical research and influencing an individual's decision to donate one's biospecimens that are left over after a medical procedure. This work was aimed at investigating the correlation between medical and healthcare students' willingness to donate a biospecimen, the type of tissues to be donated, and the type of biomedical research to be conducted. A population survey among medical and healthcare students enrolled at the Poznan University of Medical Sciences was conducted on their attitudes toward the donation of human biological material for research purposes. A total of 1500 students responded and completed the survey. The questionnaire used multiple-choice closed-ended questions designed to explore medical and healthcare students' preferences for sharing particular types of tissues and donating to a particular type of biomedical research. It asked three questions: 1. Which type of tissue would people be willing to donate for research purposes? 2. Which organs would they be willing to donate after death? 3. What type of research would they be willing to donate to? While future healthcare professionals' beliefs regarding certain types of tissues and research can influence their willingness to donate for research purposes, many students tend to think about the body and biomedical research in terms of clusters. Consequently, their willingness to donate certain tissues for a particular type of research can affect their decision to donate other tissues. Our data suggest that cluster thinking with regard to donation can be a predictor of people's readiness to participate in the collection and management of biospecimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive meningococcal disease is a dangerous bacterial infection that often leads to death or permanent disability. Immunization is the best strategy to protect individuals against invasive infections caused by Neisseria meningitidis. The effectiveness of vaccines has been demonstrated in many countries where they have been introduced into national vaccination programs. Meningococcal vaccinations in Poland are recommended in the framework of the National Immunization Program. However, they are not reimbursed, meaning the patient or parent covers vaccination costs. In addition, insufficient public awareness of the disease course and risks associated with meningococcal infection, the need for immunization in the first year of a child's life, the number of doses administered, and the price of the vaccines are barriers to the acceptance and implementation of meningococcal immunization, especially in the youngest children. Recommendations for physicians implementing meningococcal vaccination in children and adults are the result of the work of an expert group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our everyday behaviours in life can positively and negatively impact our health, thus cumulatively shaping our lifestyles as more or less healthy. These behaviours are often determined by our knowledge, literacy, motivations and socioeconomic backgrounds. The authors aimed to assess health behaviours and explore variables that may affect persons studying to become future healthcare professionals in Poland. This study was conducted with a group of 275 undergraduate students attending the Poznan University of Medical Sciences representing six different majors of study. We used self-reported, cross-sectional survey conducted through the use of a questionnaire that consisted of one standardised scale (Juczyński's Health Behaviour Inventory) as well as a self-developed health literacy measure. The students showed average to high levels of health-promoting behaviours (mean HBI = 82.04 ± 11.26). Medium to strong associations were found between these behaviours and high scores on the health literacy scale (p = 0.001, r = 0.45 between total scores of the two scales). Dietetics students and female respondents scored significantly better on both scales, which suggests that their self-reported behaviours and health literacy were higher than those of other participants. Exhibiting health-protective behaviours and high health literacy is likely to result in the better individual health of our respondents, but, more importantly, will also influence their future professions. As members of the healthcare workforce they will be responsible for the health of the population and it is crucial for them not only to provide care, education, and guidance, but also to act as role-models for their patients and society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Social skills are a very important element in the work of a nurse. These skills support patient-centered care and improve the quality of care, and for nurses, they are a protective factor against burnout syndrome, also they improve team work. Therefore, it is so important to search for their determinants. The objective of the article was to evaluate the relation between empathy and type D personality with the level of social competences of primary healthcare nurses. Material and methods. The research was conducted among primary healthcare nurses from the Lubelskie Voivodeship, using the following tools: The Social Competences Profile (PROKOS); Type D Personality Scale (DS-14), Empathic Understanding of Other People Questionnaire (KRE) and the sociodemographic data questionnaire. Results. We analyzed the responses of 446 nurses. In the study group 65% of the nurses had an average level of social competences. The research also evaluated the level of empathy demonstrated by primary healthcare nurses. The mean score for the level of empathy was M=64.63 points (SD=10.16). When it comes to 39% of the researched group of nurses (n=172), they demonstrated type D personality. The correlation analysis proved that the level of empathy among primary healthcare nurses significantly (p<0.001) supported their social competences. Furthermore the negative affectivity and social inhibition correlated significantly negatively (p<0.001) with social skills of nurses. Conclusions. Our research enabled us to discover the relations between empathy and type D personality with the level of social competences of primary healthcare nurses. Research further indicated insufficient level of social skills of nurses and the need to investigate factors, which could support their shaping. Further, in-depth research is required in this field, including quantitative analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Based on available literature and the practices of primary care physicians, it has been observed that young adults have increasing levels of stress and mental health disorders, which worsens their quality of life. Medical students are a special group due to their stressful studies. Objectives. An assessment of the well-being of students at selected medical universities in Poland. Determining the role of a family physician in this respect. Increasing awareness of mental health among both students as well as family physicians. Material and methods. Students of medical faculties (medicine, nursing, pharmacy, emergency medicine) at selected universities in Poland. Form of the survey – an anonymous online questionnaire. The data collected was statistically analysed using STATISTICA v. 13 (StatSoft Inc, USA). Results. 20% of the respondents described their mental condition as good. Anxiety disorders were reported by 52%, sleep disorders by 75%, eating disorders by 46%, and 15% of the participants have been diagnosed with depression. 86% of the students consumed alcohol, and 73% did not use medical help. Conclusions. Students at selected Polish medical universities report high levels of stress. Many of them have developed anxiety disorders, sleep disorders and depression during the course of their studies. Measures should be taken to raise awareness of the prevalence of mental disorders among students by both students and family physicians. Family physicians should pay particular attention to the mental health of medical students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: menopause is associated with numerous somatic dysfunctions, an increased risk of chronic diseases, and complications in the mental and social components of health that lower the quality of life (QoL). Obesity and related comorbidities affect over 60% of postmenopausal women in Poland. A significant role for systematic physical activity (PA) in the prevention of dysfunctions and chronic diseases, including obesity and mental disorders, has been observed previously. A low level of PA is observed across the Polish population, especially in postmenopausal women. Aim of the study: to examine QoL in postmenopausal women participating in a community health promotion program as it relates to obesity and levels of PA. Material and methods: The study sample consisted of 76 postmenopausal women (aged 65.75±5.14 years) participating in the Active Wrocław 55+ program. Before starting the program, anthropometric measurements were taken, and QoL and PA were assessed using the 36-Item Short form health Survey (SF-36) and the International physical Activity questionnaire-Short form (IPAQ-SF), respectively. Results: most women had a PA level above 600 met-min/week (78.95%), and were overweight or obese (86.84%). A waist circumference over 80 cm, indicating an increased risk for metabolic syndrome, was observed in 85.89% of the participants. BMI and waist circumference negatively correlated with the level of PA (p=0.001 and p=0.017, respectively). women exhibiting low levels of PA and higher BMIs showed a significantly lower QoL compared to those with higher PA and lower BMIs, particularly with regard to the physical domains of QoL. Conclusions: Obesity and a low level of PA are associated with a significant decline in the health-related QoL (especially in the PF and PCS domains) of postmenopausal women an urban setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of leisure time is essential for the psychosocial functioning of individuals and their health. The work-life balance (W-LB) is a particularly important aspect. In 2018, a study was carried out on the population of adult inhabitants of Wroclaw (Poland) (N=898). The survey method was used, based on a dedicated, structured and highly standardised interview questionnaire as the research tool. The study was based on a quota sample. Research objectives: to identify the amount of leisure time and changes in the amount of leisure time in comparison with the period five years ago and their socio-demographic determinants. A total of 49% of the respondents had less than 20 hours of leisure time per week while 51% had less leisure time than five years earlier. The amount of leisure time and changes in that amount occurring in recent years depended on the respondents' occupational activity, age and income. What drew particular attention were leisure time deficits among: adults throughout the whole cycle of their occupational activity and among respondents with a lower economic status and those with a higher level of education. The results have an applicative value and will be used to develop a programme to promote the idea of W-LB among Wroclaw inhabitants. The effectiveness of the intervention depends on whether or not the following systemic solutions are adopted: 1) support for working people throughout the whole cycle of their professional activity, especially for those aged 35–54; 2) counteracting social and health-based inequalities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]