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Rationale, Aims and Objectives: Health illiteracy is an important contributor to the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs); in particular in settings where health illiteracy is part of a perpetuating system of risk factors. Interventions that promote health literacy may provide an important tool in the primary and secondary prevention of NCDs. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of health literacy interventions on health literacy in the management of patients with selected NCDs living in low-to-middle income countries (LMIC)., Methods: Seven electronic databases were searched (October 29, 2020) for RCTs aimed at improving health literacy in adults with NCDs in LMICs. Eligible NCDs included those pertaining to cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic respiratory disease (CRD) or Diabetes. Studies were included that explicitly focussed on improving health literacy, and reported comprehensive measures of health literacy, or components thereof (ie, knowledge, attitude or behaviour). Random-effect meta-analyses were conducted for continuous outcome measures (Hedges-g)., Results: The completed search yielded 2573 unique results of which 53 unique studies met the inclusion criteria. Studies included patients with cancer (n = 1, 2%), CRD (n = 8, 15%), CVD (n = 11, 21%) or Diabetes (n = 33, 62%). A significant (P < .01) summary effect was found for disease knowledge (SES = 1.27 [n = 23, 95%CI = 1.05-1.49]), attitude (SES = 1.17 [n = 20, 95%CI = 0.88-1.47]), and behaviour (SES = 1.20 [n = 31, 95%CI = 0.94-1.46])., Conclusions: These results support the conclusion that there is compelling evidence, in particular, for patients with Diabetes, that health-literacy interventions are effective in promoting disease knowledge, attitude and behaviour across four chronic conditions that drive the burden of NCDs., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Aim: A concise teacher-led program for mental health literacy (MHL), suitable for schools with tight schedules was developed, and its effects were examined in pre-teens., Methods: Participants comprised 662 grade 5 to 6 students from nine Japanese elementary schools. The program consisted of a 45-minute session, delivered by school teachers using a 10-minute animated film. Program focuses included: mental health problems are common, can be associated with lifestyle and that seeking help from reliable adults is a key to finding solutions. Participants filled out self-report questionnaires before, immediately after and 3 months post-intervention. Changes in MHL were analyzed using multilevel models., Results: Knowledge about mental health/illnesses, recognition of mental health state and intention to help peers/seek help when suffering from mental health problems, were significantly improved immediately and 3 months post-intervention., Conclusions: Concise teacher-led programs administered in schools can have positive and lasting effects on MHL in pre-teens., (© 2018 John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

Background: Health-related knowledge and behaviours developed during childhood are increasingly being recognized as foundational, deeply rooted and resistant to change as children mature into adulthood. The aim of this study was to engage stakeholders in prioritizing key concepts that children need to understand when assessing claims about treatment effects., Methods: A list of 30 concepts developed prior was categorized into six groups considered important for children to understand in order to assess claims about the effects of "treatments" (any type of healthcare intervention). A teachers' network was established comprising of primary school teachers, who attended a three-day meeting where the concepts were presented, discussed and prioritized using a pre-set criteria thus: (i) relevance of concepts for children, (ii) ease of comprehension of concepts for children, (iii) potential for developing resources to teach the children and (iv) whether the resources once developed would have an impact on children's ability to assess claims. Using a modified Delphi technique, participants ranked each group of concepts using the four criteria on a Likert scale of one to six (1 = lowest, 6 = highest). The rankings were analysed using STATA statistical software., Results: Twenty-two of the 24 participants reported having understood the concepts well; with self-assessments of their own understanding above 75 on a scale of (1 to 100). All six groups of concepts were considered relevant., Conclusion: It is important to teach children how to assess claims about benefits and harms of treatments. Resources will be developed to teach children these concepts., (© 2015 Chinese Cochrane Center, West China Hospital of Sichuan University and Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)

The aim of this pilot study was to assess adult patients' ability to read and understand two communication tools at the University of California, Los Angeles, School of Dentistry: the dental school clinic website and a patient education brochure pertaining to sedation in children that was written by dental school personnel. A convenience sample of 100 adults seeking treatment at the school's general dental clinic during 2012-13 completed a health literacy screening instrument. They were then asked to read clinic educational and informational materials and complete a survey. Analyses were conducted to determine the association between the subjects' oral health literacy and sociodemographics and their ability to locate and interpret information in written oral health information materials. SMOG and Flesch-Kincade formulas were used to assess the readability level of the electronic and written communication tools. The results demonstrated an association between these adults' oral health literacy and their dental knowledge and ability to navigate health information website resources and understand health education materials. Health literacy was not associated with age or gender, but was associated with education and race/ethnicity. The SMOG Readability Index determined that the website and the sedation form were written at a ninth grade reading level. These results suggest that dental schools and other health care organizations should incorporate a health-literate approach for their digital and written materials to enhance patients' ability to navigate and understand health information, regardless of their health literacy.

Background: Kidney Research UK, have been working since 2001 to raise health awareness, fund and oversee research into kidney related issues disproportionately affecting the BAME communities in the UK. Almost 10 years ago, the charity initiated its Peer Educator model which uses the natural skills of lay people and patients to raise awareness in these communities., Aims: This article will describe the work of the Charity in relation to patient and public engagement, describing the Peer Educator model and providing examples of how it has been used. It will then focus on the deployment and impact of Peer Educators in an end of life project that the charity was involved in., Materials & Methods: Peer Educators (PEs) are ordinary people from the targeted community. In the case of our health improvement work, this has largely been the BAME communities. These people do not need any prior knowledge, training or experience in the subject matter. However, they do need to have a desire to give something back to their community in terms of health messages and also be passionate about the subject matter. They tend to have a natural empathy with the target groups in terms of culture, religion and language., Results: The Peer Educator model, is it has been found, to be a flexible and highly adaptable approach to addressing health issues in the BAME communities. It has been utilised by the charity to address everything from early disease detection, prevention, management, organ donation awareness, right through to end of life issues. The model has been well evaluated in the area of organ donation whereby its effectiveness has been proven. Moreover, there have been several notable outcomes from the end of life work including training and deployment of 10 Peer Educators who reached over 2,700 people from diverse South Asian communities, providing important information on who does what, when, and how to access it--in a culturally competent manner., Discussion & Conclusion: Kidney Research UK's Peer Educator initiative has been well established as an effective and flexible way to raise awareness and reach out to BAME patients and the communities at risk. The model has been deployed across the kidney disease spectrum including from early detection to diabetes management, right through to addressing organ donation and end of life issues., (© 2014 European Dialysis and Transplant Nurses Association/European Renal Care Association.)

Aim: Conduct a systematic review for the effectiveness of school mental health literacy programs to enhance knowledge, reduce stigmatizing attitudes and improve help-seeking behaviours among youth (12-25 years of age)., Methods: Reviewers independently searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, ERIC, grey literature and reference lists of included studies. They reached a consensus on the included studies, and rated the risk of bias of each study. Studies that reported three outcomes: knowledge acquisition, stigmatizing attitudes and help-seeking behaviours; and were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), cluster RCTs, quasi-experimental studies, and controlled-before-and-after studies, were eligible., Results: This review resulted in 27 articles including 5 RCTs, 13 quasi-experimental studies, and 9 controlled-before-and-after studies. Whereas most included studies claimed school-based mental health literacy programs improve knowledge, attitudes and help-seeking behaviour, 17 studies met criteria for high risk of bias, 10 studies for moderate risk of bias, and no studies for low risk of bias. Common limitations included the lack of randomization, control for confounding factors, validated measures and report on attrition in most studies. The overall quality of the evidence for knowledge and help-seeking behaviour outcomes was very low, and low for the attitude outcome., Conclusions: Research into school-based mental health literacy is still in its infancy and there is insufficient evidence to claim for positive impact of school mental health literacy programs on knowledge improvement, attitudinal change or help-seeking behaviour. Future research should focus on methods to appropriately determine the evidence of effectiveness on school-based mental health literacy programs, considering the values of both RCTs and other research designs in this approach. Educators should consider the strengths and weaknesses of current mental health literacy programs to inform decisions regarding possible implementation., (© 2013 Wiley Publishing Asia Pty Ltd.)

Mental health literacy is the knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders that aid their recognition, management, or prevention and is considered to be an important determinant of help-seeking. This has relevance in suicide prevention, as depression, the clinical condition most frequently associated with suicidality, has been the target of community and professional education programs designed to enhance mental health literacy. In this study, whether such programs have influenced help-seeking attitudes and behavior in those who are depressed and suicidal was considered. The results indicate that despite intensive community education programs over the last two decades, there has been little change in those who are depressed and suicidal in terms of their attitudes toward treatment seeking and, more importantly, their treatment-seeking behavior. These results draw into question the value of current community education programs for those most vulnerable to suicidal behavior., (© 2012 The American Association of Suicidology.)

Health literacy (HL) is an essential health determinant that could encourage the adoption of individual and community protective behaviours that contribute to public health. This study aims to analyse the associations between HL and medication HL (MHL) in 4015 adolescents from the Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children (HBSC/WHO). Data were collected from the HBSC/WHO questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multinomial logistic regression were performed. 62.4% of participants have a moderate level of HL and 29.1% have a high level of HL. The youngest boys, and those who have a low level of MHL in the different dimensions presented (expiration date, recycling, side effects, illegal sale and safety), have a low level of HL. The oldest girls have a moderate level of HL. Also, girls with a high level of MHL, reported a high level of HL. MHL, namely, the expiration date, recycling, side effects and safety dimensions in adolescents is significantly related to and positively associated with HL. The results will enable us to highlight to family professionals and public policies the importance of HL and MHL promotion in adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Infographics facilitate rapid information dissemination with enriched eye‐catching content on social media, but it is unclear what factors affect the adoption of information presented in this way. Objectives: We tested whether the Information Acceptance Model applies to infographics on healthy lifestyle and fitness topics. Methods: Two hundred and four university students were invited to participate in an online survey on their acceptance after reading some healthy lifestyle and fitness topics infographics shared on social media. The data collected were analysed using Partial Least Square path modelling. Results: The results confirmed information usefulness as a predictor of information adoption; attitude towards information and information adoption were the predictors of behavioural intention. Information credibility and attitude towards information, but not information quality and needs, were significantly related to information usefulness. Social media usage and education level were factors affecting infographics impressions. Discussion: Results support most hypotheses. It confirms information usefulness as a predictor of infographics adoption. Attitudes towards information and information adoption are predictors of behavioural intentions of following healthy lifestyle and fitness suggestions through social media infographics. Conclusion: Social media facilitates interpersonal communication, information exchange and knowledge sharing, and infographics may draw people into healthy lifestyle and fitness information items relevant to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Undergraduate majors in education, specifically in school health education (HE), have declined considerably in the United States. Reductions in state and federal funding for K‐12 public education and increased demands on educators to prioritize standardized academic outcomes versus focusing on the whole child encompass many factors leading to fewer qualified teachers and reduced quality of HE delivery within schools. METHODS: A content analysis of over 300 HE teacher preparation programs throughout the United States was conducted from 2019 to 2020 to assess available and required curriculum for pre‐service HE teachers. Seven curriculum areas were reviewed: nutrition, physical activity (PA) and physical education (PE), HE, chronic disease management (CDM), social emotional learning and mental health (SEL/MH), drug abuse and tobacco prevention (DA/TP), and a methods course in teaching HE. RESULTS: Findings indicated program type influenced course offerings, with stand‐alone HE and joint HE/PE programs providing the most comprehensive curriculum. Most programs required courses in general HE, PA and PE, and nutrition. Programs were deficient in offering courses in CDM, DA/TP, and SEL/MH. CONCLUSION: This article contains recommendations to improve the quality of HE delivery in public schools, for example by ensuring that school health educators are trained in providing skills‐based HE to youth, which can assist in addressing child and youth health outcomes (eg, CDM, mental health) for the nation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bowel cancer screening using faecal immunochemical testing is provided in the United Kingdom with the aim of reducing mortality from colorectal cancer. However, there are low participant rates among ethnic minorities across the United Kingdom. Faith‐placed interventions have the potential to improve screening rates among such populations, but studies examining their effectiveness are scarce. Methods: We delivered a presentation on bowel cancer screening to 204 Muslims in seven mosques in East London (intervention group). All participants completed a questionnaire regarding attitudes, perceptions and knowledge of bowel cancer screening before and after the presentation. Concurrently, we administered the questionnaire to 72 subjects attending a mosque that did not receive the presentation (comparison group). Results: The intervention group showed a greater willingness to do the test (90% vs. 67%, p < 0.001) and to recommend it to others (96% vs. 74%, p < 0.001), ability to complete the test by themselves (94% vs. 56%, p < 0.001) and confidence in noticing symptoms (78% vs. 32%, p < 0.001) after the presentation compared to before. There was a significant difference between the intervention group post‐presentation and the comparison group on intention to do the test (90% vs. 79%, p = 0.02), recommending it to others (96% vs. 83%, p < 0.001), and confidence in their ability to complete the test by themselves (94% vs. 63%, p < 0.001). Conclusion: A culture‐sensitive, faith‐placed health education intervention delivered in mosques can substantially improve knowledge of bowel cancer screening and increase the intention to participate in the screening programme. Patient or Public Contribution: The intervention presentation was developed using insights from four public involvement sessions with four to six members representative of the East London Muslim community. The sessions sought attendees' thoughts on appropriate ways to approach the intervention design for their community and asked for their views on the acceptability, appropriateness of messaging, format/design and likely impact of the presentation. Their views were then utilised to improve the presentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pedagogical approaches that support young people's well‐being and maximize their potential are among the Journal of School Health research priorities. A unique form of observational learning called biblioguidance could be a pedagogical approach. Methods: We, a team of researchers and teachers, implemented biblioguidance book clubs with 10th‐grade health education students. While the initial focus was health literacy skills, we also aimed to generate psychosocial benefits. Those benefits are the focus of the current descriptive phenomenological research. A final book club reflection captured the benefits students received and documented their transformation. We randomly selected 42 reflections from the sample pool (n = 168) and coded them via descriptive document analysis. Results: The results indicate that the book clubs provided psychosocial benefits. Students identified with the stories and characters, gained insight into others' perspectives, lived experiences, and "ways of the world," and were, in many ways, transformed. Some students even experienced catharsis, citing hope, validation, and feeling less alone. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity: Biblioguidance book clubs could offer an innovative pedagogical approach to advance students' psychosocial well‐being and engage them as active participants in their own learning and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: As summarized in this article, the widespread implementation of modern school health education (SHE) could become one of the most effective means available to improve the well‐being of people in the United States and in other nations. However, the development and evolution of SHE largely remains unorganized, underdeveloped, and neglected by health and education agencies, policymakers, and the public. METHODS: Essential to the development of any scientific discipline, scientists today use the word ontology to refer to efforts to organize knowledge in particular domains. A useful working definition of a scientific ontology is an explicit, formal specification of a shared conceptualization—a systematic set of shared terms and an explication of their interrelationships. Nine interdependent questions are outlined to help guide the development of an initial, broad, and actionable scientific ontology for SHE. RESULTS: Whether and how we respond to these questions arguably will determine the future of SHE research, policy, practice, and equity in the United States. CONCLUSIONS: An initial ontology might help conceptualize, inform, and facilitate more systematic and strategic local, state, national, and international deliberations and actions to improve SHE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Transgender and gender diverse youth experience multiple disproportionate adverse sexual health outcomes. Sexual health education teaches knowledge, attitudes, and skills for promoting sexual health, including reducing risk for sexually transmitted infection, HIV acquisition, and unintended pregnancy. Provision of sexual health education may be protective, but research remains scarce. Methods: We conducted a multi‐stage thematic analysis of 33 in‐depth interviews among transgender and gender diverse youth (ages 15–24) living in the southeastern United States on their sexual health education experiences. Results: Our study participants described school‐based sexual health education as unhelpful due to a lack of relevant information, inadequately prepared teachers, and a perceived negative tone toward sexuality. They reported relying on online sources of sexual health information, finding relevant content and community despite some limitations. Participants desired content and pedagogy that expands beyond binary and white‐centric presentations of sexuality and gender and sought resources that provide relevant, accurate, and judgment‐free information while holding positive framing around sexuality and gender. Conclusion: There is much work needed to improve the breadth, quality, and relevance of school‐based sexual health education. Sexual health education can improve by strengthening critical media literacy skills of youth; raising staff cultural competency on gender, race, and sexual identity through training and supports; using culturally relevant and inclusive curricula; and partnering with community‐based organizations. Transgender and gender diverse youth would benefit from sexual health education from multiple sources which is queer‐friendly, affirms their existence, and provides information on gender, race, and sexuality in positive and expansive ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper explores the legislative and operational commonalities and differences in Medical Products of Human Origin (MPHO) programs, including blood, hematopoietic cells, tissues and reproductive cells and human milk banking. The analysis includes ethical principles in donation and utilization, policies and legislation, public awareness and education, registries, guidelines in donor selection, safety and quality assurance, operational models and funding, infrastructure and human resources and biovigilance and evaluation of outcomes. Unlike other MPHO, the need for donor human milk (DHM) may be greatly reduced, that is, by ensuring optimal support for maternal lactation and breastfeeding. This should not be lost in the drive for wider and improved service provision. Nevertheless, increased overall demand for DHM is expected as a result of forthcoming international recommendations and also its increased use as the first‐choice supplement to a mother's own milk both within and beyond preterm, low‐birthweight and sick infant populations. Insight into current human milk banking highlights differences and gaps in practices that can benefit from further exploration and harmonization. Strong similarities with the ethical and operational principles underpinning donation and processing of the diverse MPHO suggest that legislating human milk banks within similar MPHO frameworks may bring additional safety and facilitate improved product quality. Moreover, that MPHO‐inspired models operating within attainable regulatory requirements may contribute to sustainable human milk banking activity and growth. Key messages: The strong similarities with the ethical, quality and safety expectations underpinning the donation and processing of the diverse Medical Products of Human Origin (MPHO) can be harnessed to provide additional safety levels and improved donor human milk (DHM) quality.MPHO‐inspired models operating within attainable regulatory requirements may contribute to sustainable human milk banking activity and growth.The need for DHM may be greatly reduced through optimal support for maternal lactation and breastfeedingCurrent global milk banking practices can benefit from expanded and harmonized, international guidance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities through consultation has been a key feature of policy implementation throughout the Australian Government's "Closing the Gap" (CTG) strategy. However, consultation often reinforces power imbalances between government and local community and can undervalue or marginalise Indigenous knowledge and leadership. Occupational therapy has a short history of examining colonial power structures within the profession, but there has been limited progress to decolonise consultation and practice. Methods: Drawing on decolonising research methodology and positioned at the interface of knowledge, comparative case studies were used to understand policy implementation in two regions. In Shepparton, Victoria, CTG policy was implemented predominately through an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, and in Southern Adelaide, South Australia, CTG policy was implemented through mainstream state government and non‐government providers in the absence of a local Aboriginal‐controlled organisation. Findings were examined critically to identify implications for occupational therapy. Results: Our case studies showed that policy stakeholders perceived consultation to be tokenistic and partnerships were viewed differently by Aboriginal and non‐Indigenous participants. Participants identified the need to move beyond a rhetoric of "working with" Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, to promote Aboriginal leadership and really listen to community so that policy can respond to local need. The findings of this research show that Aboriginal‐controlled services are best positioned to conduct and respond to community consultation. Conclusion: A decolonising approach to consultation would shift the status quo in policy implementation in ways that realign power away from colonial structures towards collaboration with Indigenous leadership and the promotion of Aboriginal‐controlled services. There are lessons for occupational therapy from this research on policy implementation on authentic, decolonised consultation as a key feature of policy implementation. Shifting power imbalances through prioritising Indigenous leadership and honouring what is shared can drive change in CTG policy implementation processes and outcomes. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are often asked to give advice or share ideas on how health and education services are provided to community. We asked people in Southern Adelaide what this was like when the Closing the Gap strategy was first introduced in the region. People explained that Aboriginal leaders were not really listened to, and even when there are meant to be partnerships, it often does not work out as planned. There are lessons we can take from this for occupational therapy so that we stop making the same mistakes over and over. Health and education services need to really listen and respond appropriately, so that services are safer for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities. Aboriginal leadership must be valued and respected if we are to close the gaps in health and education. This is important for the future of occupational therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of the football‐based health education program "11 for Health" on health knowledge and well‐being in the setting of a 10‐week residential stay in a Danish charity home for socially vulnerable children. Six hundred and fourteen children participated in the study, of which 305 took part in the standard program plus "11 for Health" (SG+: 12.4 ± 1.4 (mean ± SD) years) and 309 took part in the standard program (SG: 12.4 ± 1.6 years). We used a crossover design over two full years. The study examined changes in health knowledge and well‐being through questionnaires. Overall health knowledge increased more in SG+ than SG over 10 weeks (6.6 vs. 3.4%, p < 0.05). The overall well‐being scores were markedly improved (p < 0.05) by 4.54 ± 7.17 AU in SG+ and 4.51 ± 7.16 AU in SG, with no between‐group differences. Specific improvements (p < 0.05) were seen in all well‐being subcategories, raising the well‐being scores to the national average. In conclusion, a 10‐week stay at a Danish charity home, the Christmas Seal Home, markedly affected health knowledge and well‐being of socially vulnerable children. When the football‐based health education program—11 for Health—was added, there were additional positive effects on health knowledge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The transition from hospital to home can be challenging for parents of prematurely born infants. The aim of this ethnographic study was to describe a multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conference for families with premature infants transitioning from a neonatal intensive care unit to municipal healthcare services. Design and Methods: An ethnographically/anthropologically inspired qualitative design was adopted. We conducted four participant observations of multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences and 12 semistructured interviews with four neonatologists, four nurses, and four health visitors who had attended one of the conferences. Salient themes were generated by two‐part analysis consisting of a thematic analysis followed by Turner's ritual analysis. Results: This study illustrated how multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences improved the quality of care for premature infants and their families in their transition process which was perceived as complex. These conferences contributed to promoting a sense of coherence and continuity of care. The healthcare professionals experienced that this event may be characterized as a ritual, which created structures that promoted cross‐sectoral cooperation and communication while increasing interdisciplinary knowledge sharing. Thus, the conferences triggered a sense that the participants were building bridges to unite healthcare sectors, ensuring a holistic and coordinated approach to meet the unique needs of the infants and their families. Implications for Practice: This study presented a unique holistic and family‐centered approach to constructing multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences that seemed to underpin the quality of interdisciplinary and health‐related knowledge sharing and establish a crucial starting point for early interventions, preventive measures, and health‐promoting efforts. Hopefully, our findings will encourage others to rethink the discharge conference as a transitional ritual that may potentially bridge the gap between healthcare sectors. Specifically, our findings contribute to the mounting body of knowledge of family‐centered care by showing how healthcare professionals may—in a meaningful and tangible manner—operate, develop, and implement this somewhat elusive theoretical foundation in their clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Awareness and understanding of dementia remain limited in ethnically diverse populations in multicultural societies due to culturally inappropriate and inaccessible information. Objective: To establish the impact, helpers and hinderers of an online multilingual dementia awareness initiative co‐created with and for English, Arabic and Vietnamese speaking people. Design: A case study using mixed methods to assess the impact and implementation of an information session on dementia knowledge. Setting and Participants: The study was conducted with English, Arabic and Vietnamese speaking individuals in Canterbury‐Bankstown, Australia. Intervention Studied: A dementia alliance co‐created an online multilingual dementia information session, which was delivered synchronously in English, Arabic and Vietnamese by trained facilitators. Main Outcome Measures: In‐session group discussions, quizzes and a postsession survey assessed the impact on dementia knowledge. A postimplementation focus group explored the factors that helped and hindered the initiative. Results: The online dementia information session successfully supported participants understanding of dementia causes, impacts and care strategies. The initiative was hindered by competing priorities and limited accessibility to target audiences, while it was helped by the support of an established organisation and feedback mechanisms. Discussion: Ongoing dementia education and awareness‐raising campaigns that are culturally sensitive are needed in communities to promote dementia literacy and help‐seeking. Conclusions: An online multilingual dementia information session can be an effective way to improve dementia literacy and advocate for change in multicultural communities. Patient or Public Contribution: English, Arabic and Vietnamese speaking members of the Canterbury Bankstown Dementia Alliance participated in the co‐creation and evaluation of this initiative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses the significant impact that socioeconomic factors had on child health during the 20th century. It highlights the work of Cicely Delphine Williams, a Jamaican-born English pediatrician, who used local public health resources to improve maternal and child health in developing countries. Williams championed an integrated approach to child health, with a focus on promoting breastfeeding as the best infant feeding option. She also conducted research on kwashiorkor, a severe form of childhood malnutrition. Williams worked with limited resources and made healthcare accessible to poor people, saving countless lives and inspiring healthcare professionals worldwide. [Extracted from the article]

People with endocrine disorders are at an increased risk of osteoporosis, yet their knowledge of osteoporosis prevention is rarely studied. This study aimed to assess the knowledge related to osteoporosis prevention and its associated factors among people with endocrine disorders in China. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a Chinese hospital's Department of Metabolism and Endocrinology. A total of 562 people with endocrine disorders completed the Chinese version of the Osteoporosis Prevention and Awareness Tool to assess their knowledge of osteoporosis prevention. Results showed that participants had a mean knowledge of 59.36 ± 23.90 out of 100, with only 52.1% scoring above 60 points. Being female, having higher education, with comorbidities, with a recent osteoporosis diagnosis, and having received health education related to osteoporosis prevention were associated with higher knowledge of osteoporosis prevention. Our study indicates that more efforts are needed to improve the knowledge related to osteoporosis prevention among people with endocrine disorders. This may be realized by strengthening and expanding diverse education, focusing on males and those with lower education and without comorbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in men aged 15–44 years in many countries. Most men with testicular cancer present with a lump. Testicular symptoms are more likely to occur secondary to benign diseases like epididymo‐orchitis, a common sexually transmitted infection. Gender and sexual minorities are at an increased risk of testicular diseases and health disparities. The aim of this study was to co‐design an inclusive community‐based campaign to promote testicular awareness. Methods: This study uses the World Café methodology. Participation was sought from Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer+ friendly organisations, testicular cancer survivors, health policy makers, media and marketing experts and graphic designers. Participants engaged in three rounds of conversations to co‐design the campaign. Data were collected using drawing sheets, artefact cards, sticky notes, coloured markers and a voice recorder. Deductive thematic analysis was conducted. Results: Seventeen individuals participated in the study. Six themes emerged from the analysis as follows: (i) online communication; (ii) offline communication; (iii) behavioural targeting and education; (iv) campaign frequency and reach; (v) demographic segmentation; and (vi) campaign identity. The use of social media for campaign delivery featured strongly in all conversations. Participants also recommended offline communication using posters and radio/television advertisements to scale up the campaign and achieve wider reach. Advertisements to overcome embarrassment surrounding testicular health were particularly recommended. Participants emphasised that campaign delivery must be dynamic whilst ensuring that the health‐promoting messages are not diluted or lost. They stressed the importance of being inclusive and tailoring the campaign to different age groups, gender identities and sexual orientations. Conclusions: Study recommendations will be used to design and deliver the campaign. Future research will be needed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, cost and effect of the campaign on promoting testicular awareness and early detection of testicular diseases. Patient or Public Contribution: A participatory research approach was used to co‐design the campaign with members of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer+ (LGBTQ+) friendly organisations, LGBTQ+ student bodies, LGBTQ+ staff networks, LGBTQ+ sports clubs, men's health organisations, testicular cancer survivors, health policy makers, media and marketing experts and graphic designers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the risk factors connected with diabetic foot care and investigate the impact of health education on promoting proper diabetic foot care practices. An explanatory and mixed‐method study was performed. We administered a structured pretest questionnaire to patients diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes who frequented our health examination center and community health clinics. The survey encompassed patient demographics, basic knowledge concerning diabetic foot care, and self‐care practices pertaining to diabetic foot care. Concurrent assessments and scoring were carried out. Following the survey, patients underwent health education sessions focusing on foot self‐care behaviours. Their progress was reevaluated after 2 weeks to gauge its effectiveness. We identified educational attainment, diabetes duration, regular follow‐up, and blood sugar control as critical factors influencing knowledge about foot care and self‐care practices related to it. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated a positive relationship between scores for diabetic foot care knowledge and scores for self‐care behaviours (r = 0.32, p < 0.001). Health education led to a significant improvement in the self‐care behaviours of diabetic patients. A variety of factors affect the occurrence of diabetic foot complications and the self‐care behaviours associated with diabetic foot care. Health education proves to be an effective means of enhancing diabetic foot care behaviours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Black cis‐gender women are disparately affected by HIV and require prioritization in prevention efforts, including pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Preparing trusted community leaders such as salon stylists as health‐based opinion leaders may be promising to increasing awareness, knowledge, and uptake of PrEP among Black women. We sought to develop training and better understand stylists who may participate in a salon‐based PrEP intervention for Black women. Methods: A community‐research partnership designed a stylist training workshop for stylists with a majority Black women clientele. A two‐session workshop focused on HIV knowledge, HIV prevention including PrEP, and the role of an opinion leader to influence community social and health norms. An exploratory research design and analysis was conducted to examine stylists and provide training feedback. Conclusions: Stylists showed a high level of knowledge and willingness to serve as an opinion leader in their salons and with their communities. Stylists also verified medical mistrust in the healthcare system that makes community‐based interventions attractive. This article discusses how the training was piloted and accepted by stylists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential life skills related to food and meals have a potential triple dividend for children and adolescents, that is, short-term, medium-term and possible generational effects with regard to public health, sustainability and well-being of future citizens in local communities. While parents and childhood environments are a basis for learning about food and meals, systematic food education in the setting of primary and lower secondary schools may have a significant role that should be utilized more strongly, reaching and benefitting all pupils from a life course perspective. Through this article, we explore the current state of the art of the mandatory school subject Food and Health (FH) from the Nordic perspective. Our leading questions are: (1) What potential is currently utilized and which future potential does FH education have in primary and secondary schools in terms of food education for essential life skills and competencies, and (2) How can this untapped potential be better harnessed with a goal of facilitating better learning in FH? Drawing on data from Norway as a case study, supported by Swedish and Finnish data, we discuss the status, challenges and potential reformation of food education, focusing on FH. This includes perspectives on the prioritization of the FH subject and the organization of more systematic food education in schools, which might improve FH's status and significance. Combining theory-practice, creating room for discussion and focusing less on cooking-related activities may better facilitate learning in FH. Without proper FH, food education might be nonsystematic, thereby generating unequal outcomes for children and adolescents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Health professions education (HPE) must keep pace with rapid shifts in learning and societal contexts, control of resources, knowledge and environmental concerns. Sustainability is increasingly seen as complex, balancing the three pillars of economy, society and the environment and addressing the current generation's needs without compromising future generations' needs. We aim to orient three‐pillar sustainability in (HPE) from a decolonial global perspective. Conferences as truth‐regimes: Future‐proofing imperatives compel HPE to respond to sustainability calls in contexts of globalisation and internationalisation. International conferences are sites of power in knowledge production and dissemination because themes and invited speakers determine who experts in the field are and what knowledge is important. Scholarly communities, dominating the discourse, determine the nature of reality or 'truth' (ontology), theoretical foundations of that reality and approaches to knowing (epistemology). Using one international conference as a case study, we found few scholarly presentations on sustainability, especially economic disparities. Discourse in HPE is still dominated by Global North 'experts'. Implications: Conferences are important discursive spaces for knowledge production and exchange. Increasing attention to social justice and planetary health must include a global perspective on three‐pillar sustainability. Historical and contemporary perspectives about disparities on health should exceed Eurocentric epistemologies alone. These are areas ripe for innovative research in HPE. Promisingly, there is increasing attention to curricula around health equity, disparities and clinical rotations in rural and underserved communities among educational institutions around the world. Conclusions: Future‐proofing HPE requires addressing three sustainability pillars simultaneously. Conferences as influential knowledge production spaces are mostly characterised by Global North to South flow of knowledge. Global North‐dominated discourse fails to reflect on the impact of historical disparities including colonialism that thwart equivalence. Transforming HPE can occur through a sustainability perspective that advances three‐pillar global approaches for inclusive global legitimacy in HPE narratives and standards. As health professions education graples with sustainability challenges, Naidu and Ramani advocate for a decolonial global perspective that emphasizes social, environmental, and economic pillars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to (1) characterize healthcare professionals' (HCPs') experiences related to the prevention and management of pressure injuries (PIs) and (2) explore the educational needs of individuals with a past or current history of PIs and their caregivers from the perspective of HCPs. This is a qualitative descriptive study. HCPs (n = 18) were interviewed using a semi‐structured interview guide. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded using NVivo. Three overarching themes encompassing various dimensions were identified: (1) Facilitators related to PI prevention and management, (2) Challenges related to PI prevention and management and (3) Recommendations for improving patient and caregiver PI education. HCPs identified a greater number of challenges than facilitators related to PI care. This study emphasizes the importance of a patient‐centred and interprofessional approach to patient education for PI prevention and management. Meaningful interventions focused on the patient may improve health literacy and empower patients and caregivers in PI care. Investing in preventive measures and raising awareness are crucial to reducing PI incidence. The findings have implications for HCPs and researchers seeking to enhance patient care and promote effective PI prevention strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a global policy statement from the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) on caries management pathways for children. The core concepts and values of child-focused care pathways for caries management include knowing a child/caregiver, shared decision-making, child-focused care, evidence-based care, prognosis, preventive management, noninvasive caries management, microinvasive interventions, minimally invasive interventions and restorative management.

BACKGROUND: Schools are important arenas for the promotion of critical health literacy (CHL) among adolescents. Key domains of CHL are information appraisal, understanding social determinants of health, and abilities to act on determinants of health. In this paper, we examine the psychometric properties of the Critical Health Literacy for Adolescents Questionnaire (CHLA‐Q). METHODS: A cross‐sectional survey study was performed at 5 schools in Norway. Respondents included 522 pupils aged 13‐15 years old. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted to examine the structural validity. Internal reliability was assessed using ordinal Cronbach's alpha. RESULTS: The estimated model had acceptable closeness of fit. Five of 6 scales displayed adequate internal reliability. CONCLUSION: The results indicate acceptable fit of the CHLA‐Q framework and that 5 of the 6 scales are applicable to inform future research and interventions. More research is needed on measurement of the second domain of CHL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Health literacy (HL) about healthy cognitive aging is essential in preventing cognitive decline and promoting cognitive well‐being. It is important that one such HL module should be scientifically designed, delivered in a technically sound manner to the audience, and specific to the context. The present study thus aimed at developing and validating educational multimedia about cognitive health. Methods: The study followed a methodological framework and was carried out across three phases, that is, identification of themes, development and validation of educational script and design, and validation of educational multimedia. The module was scripted based on the Integrated HL framework and the recommendations made during the modified nominal group technique among the research team. Seven speech‐language pathologists (SLPs), with expertise in the field of cognitive sciences, and 15 representatives of the general public validated the module using the Educational Content Validation Instrument in Health and the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Audiovisual Materials questionnaire. Results: The scientific content of the educational script received satisfactory agreements among the experts (content validity index [CVI]: 0.93) and representatives of the general public (CVI: 0.86). The technical aspects of the educational multimedia were rated to have high understandability (experts: 92.8%; representatives of general public: 98.8%) and actionability (experts and representatives of general public 100%). Conclusion: Overall, the developed educational multimedia scored optimally with respect to the objective, structure, relevance of the content, actionability and understandability of the multimedia. The developed module holds the potential to be used at community and national level health educational programs or awareness campaigns to enhance public knowledge and beliefs pertaining to cognitive health. Patient or Public Contribution: SLPs with expertise in the field of cognitive science and representatives from the general public were included to validate and obtain feedback on the developed educational multimedia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Epilepsy surgery is an effective albeit underused treatment for refractory epilepsy, and online materials are vital to patient understanding of the complex process. Our goal is to analyze the readability and content inclusion of online patient health education materials designed for epilepsy surgery. Methods: A private browser setting was used on Google and Bing to identify the top 100 search results for the terms "epilepsy+surgery". Scientific papers, insurance pages, pay‐wall access sites, and non‐text content were excluded. The website text was reformatted to exclude graphics, contact information, links, and headers. Readability metrics were calculated using an online tool. Text content was analyzed for inclusion of important concepts (pre‐surgical evaluation, complications, risks of continued seizures, types of surgery, complimentary diagrams/audiovisual material). Comparison of readability and content inclusion was performed as a function of organization types (epilepsy center, community health organization, pediatric‐specific) and location (region, country). Results: Browser search yielded 82 distinct websites with information regarding epilepsy surgery, with 98.7% of websites exceeding the recommended 6th‐grade reading level for health information. Epilepsy centers had significantly worse readability (Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) P < 0.01 and Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) P < 0.05). Content analysis showed that only 37% of websites discuss surgical side effects and only 23% mention the risks of continued seizures. Epilepsy centers were less likely to report information on surgical side effects (P < 0.001). UK‐based websites had better readability (FKGL P < 0.01 and FRE P < 0.01) and were more likely to discuss side effects (P = 0.01) compared to US‐based websites. Significance: The majority of online health content is overly complex and relatively incomplete in multiple key areas important to health literacy and understanding of surgical candidacy. Our findings suggest academic organizations, including level 4 epilepsy centers, need to simplify and broaden online education resources. More comprehensive, publicly accessible, and readable information may lead to better‐shared decision‐making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis are frequently burdened with psychological problems besides disease treatment and adherence. Currently, there is a shortage of appropriate and effective educational materials to facilitate physical and psychological recovery. Objectives: To examine a picture book for the effectiveness of disease‐related knowledge, coping strategies, resilience, quality of life and depressive symptoms in children with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis in China. Design: A quasi‐experimental design with repeated measures was adopted. The control group received standard care. The intervention group received the standard care plus a free picture book. This disease‐specific picture book narrated the story of two rabbits diagnosed with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis who underwent a series of examinations, faced difficulties taking medication, and eventually recovered. Participants: The study recruited 60 children diagnosed with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis. Measurements: Disease‐related knowledge, resilience, coping strategies, depression and paediatric quality of life were measured at baseline, the third day, the first month and the third month after recruitment. The acceptability of the picture book was evaluated at the last data‐collection point. Results: The data showed that children in the intervention group demonstrated higher levels of knowledge (p < 0.001), less usage of emotional coping strategies (p = 0.003), reduced depressive symptoms (p = 0.003), improved psychological resilience (p < 0.001), and better quality of life (p < 0.046) than those in the control group in the third month. Most children (83.3%) in the intervention group were satisfied with the picture book. Conclusions: The targeted picture book is an effective educational tool for improving clinical outcomes and was highly accepted by children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The lack of academic agreement in the practical or clinical use of declarative knowledge can generate unnecessary confusion and miscommunication. The concept Centric Occlusion (CO) is part of the body of declarative knowledge in dentistry, but its definition remains unclear. Objective: To ascertain the CO concept in articles published in dental journals as a study case for the dentistry "corpus" of declarative knowledge. Methodology: The alternative definitions of CO used by the GPT (Glossary of Prosthodontic Terms) from 1956–1977, 'CO as a synonym for maximum intercuspal contact (MIC)', or by the GPT from 1987–2017, 'CO may or may not coincide with MIC', were searched in the articles. The association between the CO definition used and variables such as article aims, journal scope and authors specialty was assessed. Results: Eight hundred and twelve articles were analysed. The widespread use of CO as synonym of MIC was the main finding and was significantly associated to the Orthodontics field. The CO definition according to the GPT 1987–2017 was less frequently observed but appeared in all dentistry fields, showing a significant association with the Oral Rehabilitation field. The difficulty of incorporating the current definition of CO (by GPT) into the main clinical discussions was evidenced all the long of the review process. Conclusion: The lack of consensus in the concept use was confirmed by the present study case, showing the influence of specific fields in Oral Health declarative knowledge. This methodology can provide a tool to the academy to assess controversial terms or concepts in Oral Health education, thus facilitating the critical and reflexive learning by students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Adolescents are considered to be vulnerable to particulate matter (PM). This study aims to develop and verify the effectiveness of the "school‐based education program for coping with particulate matter (SEPC_PM)." This program was designed by employing the health belief model. METHODS: High school students between the ages of 15 and 18 in South Korea participated in the program. This study employed a nonequivalent control group pretest‐posttest design. A total of 113 students participated in the study; of these, 56 students participated in the intervention group, and 57 in the control group. The intervention group received 8 intervention sessions the SEPC_PM over the course of 4 weeks. RESULTS: After the completion of the program, the intervention group's knowledge about PM showed a statistically significant increase (t = 4.79, p <.001). The practice of engaging in health‐managing behaviors to protect against PM also showed statistically significant improvement in the intervention group, with the greatest progress in practicing precaution when outdoors (t = 2.22, p =.029). No statistically significant changes were observed regarding other dependent variables. However, a subdomain of the variable of perceived self‐efficacy for engaging in health‐managing behaviors to protect against PM (degree of body cleansing after returning home) demonstrated a statistically significant increase in the intervention group (t = 1.99, p =.049). CONCLUSIONS: The SEPC_PM may be proposed for incorporation into regular high school curricula to improve students' health by encouraging them to take necessary actions against PM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aims to evaluate the effect of group‐oriented peer education given to university students with testicular cancer on health beliefs and self‐examination. Is there a statistical difference in the average of health belief points of university students before education compared to after education? Testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in young men aged 0–34 years, and is the third most common cancer in men worldwide. It ranks first among the most common types of cancer in men of the same age in Turkey. This research is a semi‐experimental quantitative study with a single group pre‐test and post‐test design. The students of the health care services and therapy rehabilitation department of a Turkish state university participated in the study. The number of students to be included in the study was determined as n = 78 when the calculation was made according to the sample selection formula for the group whose universe was known. Data were obtained from the personal information form, the testicular cancer and testicular self‐examination‐related health beliefs scale, and the self‐examination form. This study followed the ethical directions of the Helsinki Declaration. Ethics committee approval and institutional permission were obtained before the study was conducted. The students were informed about the purpose of the research, and their consent was obtained to participate in the research. Mann–Whitney U, Wilcoxon, and chi‐square analyses were performed for data analysis. A significant difference was found between pre‐test and post‐test scores of severity and care, benefit and health motivation, barriers, and self‐efficacy (p < 0.05). In the study, it was determined that group‐oriented peer education was effective in promoting testicular self‐examination. Experimental studies with larger study groups are recommended to increase testicular self‐examination. Practice educational initiatives should be planned to encourage nurses to perform testicular self‐exam in the best environment and education model where they can reach men in the risk group between the ages of 15–25 organization of planned trainings for men. This study is the small sample size. A larger and more representative sample of students from the social and health departments of different faculties would have provided more reliable results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed Methods Results Conclusions So What? Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women experience considerable disparities in gynaecological cancer outcomes. Accessible and culturally appropriate health promotion resources about gynaecological cancers may support health literacy in this area. This study aimed to determine the understandability, actionability, readability, and cultural relevance of gynaecological cancer health literacy resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers, families, and caregivers.We conducted a general Google search and targeted searches of Australian gynaecological cancer organisation websites in January and February 2022. Resources were assessed for understandability, actionability and cultural relevance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander audiences.We found 16 resources. The resources were generally understandable, actionable, readable, and culturally relevant, however, most resources were focused on cervical cancer prevention through vaccination and screening. Few resources focused other gynaecological cancer types or aspects of the cancer care continuum. While many resources contained elements that made them culturally relevant, areas for improvement were identified. These included: greater transparency relating to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander leadership, governance, and involvement in the development of the resources as well as availability of different resource formats with an emphasis on visual aids.This study highlighted a need for the development of resources relating to a wider range of gynaecological cancer types and different stages of the cancer care continuum for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women.The development of a broader range of culturally appropriate gynaecological cancer health literacy resources, ideally developed through co‐design with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, may contribute to addressing the disparities in gynaecological cancer outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A community that is trained to respond to life‐threatening bleeding can reduce the risk of death from trauma and violence. Stop The Bleed is a nationally recognized, free, 1‐hour bleeding control training designed for laypersons. Implementing a campuswide Stop the Bleed initiative can be daunting, yet vital to creating a safe, prepared campus. Guidance is offered by faculty, staff, and students from a Stop the Bleed initiative at a public university in the southern United States. This guide provides real‐life examples and recommendations based on experience. Utilization of population health nursing students is a fundamental component of success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This research study aims to identify the fundamental components of community adaptation for a culturally tailored care partner activation program for Filipino American family caregivers of patients with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementia (ADRD). Design: The study utilized focus group interviews with community nurse leaders, stakeholders, and family caregivers of patients with ADRD. Results: The research revealed that education and knowledge about the disease, community‐based services and facilities, support groups and resources, spiritual and cultural values, and access to transportation are all critical components for community adaptation. Conclusion: The findings suggest that a culturally tailored care partner activation program that incorporates these components can enhance the quality of life for Filipino American caregivers and their loved ones with ADRD. The nursing implications of the study underscore the importance of nurses being culturally competent and sensitive to the unique challenges faced by Filipino American caregivers. Nurses can provide valuable support to caregivers by educating them, connecting them with community resources, and advocating for culturally responsive care practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Health literacy is a critical component of public health nursing, particularly in rural areas where access to health services is severely limited. As it relates to quality of care, cost of care, safety of care, and appropriate decision‐making in general public health, health literacy can also be seen as an important public policy issue. Several challenges that can be found in rural communities in terms of access to health literacy, such as limited access to healthcare services, limited resources, low literacy rate, cultural and language barriers, financial constraints, and digital divide. Based on these challenges, several innovations can be pursued such as community‐based health education, health literacy training among healthcare professionals, digital health technology, partnerships with community‐based organizations, health literacy radio programs, and community health ambassadors. This reflection highlights the challenges and innovations that nurses can do to overcome the problem of low‐health literacy in rural communities. In the future, the development of community empowerment and technology will be needed to refine the progress made so that a gradual increase in health literacy in rural communities can be seen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The clinical and economic burden of hypertension is high and continues to increase globally. Uncontrolled hypertension has severe but avoidable long‐term consequences, including cardiovascular diseases, which are among the most burdensome and most preventable conditions in Europe. Yet, despite clear guidelines on screening, diagnosis and management of hypertension, a large proportion of patients remain undiagnosed or undertreated. Low adherence and persistence are common, exacerbating the issue of poor blood pressure (BP) control. Although current guidelines provide clear direction, implementation is hampered by barriers at the patient‐, physician‐ and healthcare system levels. Underestimation of the impact of uncontrolled hypertension and limited health literacy lead to low adherence and persistence among patients, treatment inertia among physicians and a lack of decisive healthcare system action. Many options to improve BP control are available or under investigation. Patients would benefit from targeted health education, improved BP measurement, individualized treatment or simplified treatment regimens through single‐pill combinations. For physicians, increasing awareness of the burden of hypertension, as well as offering training on monitoring and optimal management and provision of the necessary time to collaboratively engage with patients would be useful. Healthcare systems should establish nationwide strategies for hypertension screening and management. Furthermore, there is an unmet need to implement more comprehensive BP measurements to optimize management. In conclusion, an integrative, patient‐focused, multimodal multidisciplinary approach to the management of hypertension by clinicians, payers and policymakers, involving patients, is required to achieve long‐term improvements in population health and cost‐efficiency for healthcare systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: School‐based mental health literacy interventions aim to prevent mental disorders and promote mental wellbeing through improving the knowledge and understanding of mental health, mental disorders, and reducing stigma. Evidence suggests that good mental health literacy helps young people recognise mental health difficulties in themselves and in others, and seek help for mental health problems. Improved help‐seeking can allow for early intervention, which prevents the progression of mental disorders and ultimately reduces the burden of mental disorders. The aim of this review is to identify and synthesise evidence on the effectiveness of school‐based mental health literacy interventions in improving help‐seeking outcomes. Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, ERIC, Child Development and Adolescent Studies, British Education Index and ASSIA (June 2020). Additional searches were conducted a year later to identify any new publications (June 2021). We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effectiveness or cost‐effectiveness of school‐based interventions to improve help‐seeking outcomes for children and young people aged 4–18 years. Included studies were critically appraised. Results: We identified 11 studies investigating help‐seeking outcomes of school‐based mental health literacy interventions including a total of 7066 participants from 66 secondary schools. Overall, there is no strong evidence for the effectiveness of school‐based mental health literacy interventions in improving help‐seeking outcomes, including general attitudes towards help‐seeking, personal intentions to seek help, knowledge of when and how to seek help for mental disorders, confidence to seek help, and actual help‐seeking behaviours. None of the studies investigated the cost‐effectiveness of the interventions. Conclusion: The lack of standardised measures with established reliability and validity for help‐seeking outcomes, and the incomprehensive consideration of the multi‐faceted concepts of MH literacy and MH stigma have contributed to the scarcity of evidence for the effectiveness. Future research should focus on developing standardised measurement tools and including economic evaluations to understand pragmatic and financial aspects of school‐based mental health literacy interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: This paper aims to systematically review the current evidence surrounding the influence of parental knowledge and attitudes on the oral and dental health status of autistic children. Methods and Results: Data were sourced from EBSCOhost, ProQuest One Academic, Ovid MEDLINE, and Scopus. Additional records were manually identified through other sources. Literature search identified 610 relevant articles for screening, of which nine were ultimately selected for inclusion following full‐text review. A custom data collection sheet was constructed by the authors to extract data based on selected parameters addressing the focused research question. Extracted data were combined in an evidence table based on the collection sheet parameters. Study characteristics and findings were then descriptively summarized and compared. Due to heterogenicity, meta‐analysis was not viable. While all included cross‐sectional studies have predominantly shown no statistically significant association between parental knowledge and oral health, three experimental studies have conversely reported significant oral health improvements following educational interventions; suggesting a strong correlation. Conclusion: Autistic children are susceptible to oral diseases, necessitating parental attention. Current evidence regarding this topic is limited and conflicting. The present systematic review faces limitations: included studies were few and predominantly cross‐sectional. Moreover, study samples were small, predominantly male, conveniently recruited, and geographically limited. This paper serves as a foundation to guide future research and inspire oral health education and wellness promotion programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: This article introduces the concept, food allergy literacy (FAL), which encompasses the knowledge, behaviors, and skills needed to manage a food allergy and is thus critical to child safety. Yet, there is limited clarity on how to promote FAL in children. METHODS: Twelve academic databases were systematically searched to identify publications on interventions to promote FAL in children. Five publications met the inclusion criteria, which involved children (3 to 12 years), their parents, or educators and tested the efficacy of an intervention. FINDINGS: Four interventions were for parents and educators, while 1 intervention was for parents with their children. The interventions were educational and focused on promoting participant knowledge and skills of food allergy, and/or psychosocial in nature, promoting coping, confidence, and self‐efficacy in managing children's allergies. All interventions were deemed effective. Only 1 study used a control group, and none assessed the long‐term benefits of the interventions. IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY: The results can enable health service providers and educators to design evidence‐based interventions to promote FAL. This might involve designing, implementing, and evaluating curricula and play‐based activities, therein, that award greater attention to food allergy—its consequences, risks, skills to prevent risk, and managing food allergy in educational settings. CONCLUSIONS: There is limited evidence on child‐focused interventions that promote FAL. There is, therefore, considerable opportunity to co‐design and test interventions with children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate hand hygiene knowledge and demonstrated technique before and after implementation of the hand hygiene programme and its sustainability among Malawian kindergarten students. Design: Quasi‐experimental design, utilizing a repeated measure at three points, namely, before intervention (T0), soon after intervention (T1) and follow‐up (T2). Methods: The hand hygiene programme consisted of integrating hand hygiene protocol into the school health curriculum, setting up proper handwashing facilities, training school teachers, health talks and developing reminders on hand hygiene. Fifty‐three kindergarten children aged 3–6 years were enrolled in the programme. Data were collected at 3 months' intervals (T0, T1, and T2). Parents, teachers, school authorities and children were involved in the implementation and evaluation of the intervention, utilizing a multilevel approach. Results: There was a significant difference in knowledge scores across three time points (T0, T1 and T2), Chi‐Square (2, n = 53) = 79.02, p < 0.005 and handwashing technique across the three time points, Chi‐Square (2, n = 53) = 88.04, p < 0.005. There was a large effect size of 0.62 on the effect of handwashing technique scores from T0 to T1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persons who are incarcerated (PWAI) suffer from a disproportionately higher number of physical and mental health conditions. While most jails and prisons provide onsite healthcare, community correctional centers often do not and accessing community healthcare is challenging due to insurance issues, inadequate health literacy, mistrust, and long waits for appointments. A registered nurse‐led wellness clinic provides a viable solution to addressing the healthcare needs of PWAI in a community correctional setting. Through a community‐academic partnership between a college of nursing and two community correctional transitional centers for men, a registered nurse (RN) faculty member and nursing students provide onsite healthcare. Services include, but are not limited to, acute and chronic disease management, case management, healthcare navigation, and health education. In the first 2 years of operation, there have been 587 new resident health assessments, 882 RN visits, and 152 group education sessions. RN visits have been primarily for: connection to resources (42.6%), medication management (15.6%), and acute conditions (12%). A RN‐led wellness clinic is an innovative way to address health needs for PWAI. While this model of care focuses on an academic RN faculty practice at community correctional centers it could be replicated across community settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to investigate the popularity of the "11 for Health program for Europe" for 10–12‐year‐old Faroese children and the effects on well‐being and health knowledge. Methods: We applied a cluster‐randomized controlled trial, including a total of 19 school clusters, randomized into intervention schools (IG, n = 12) and control schools (CG, n = 7). A total of 261 children (137 boys and 124 girls) participated. IG completed the 11‐week program, consisting of 2 × 45 min weekly sessions with football drills, small‐sided games, and health education. CG continued their regular education. Pre‐ and post‐intervention, the participants completed a shortened version of the multidimensional well‐being questionnaire KIDSCREEN‐27 and a 34‐item multiple‐choice health knowledge questionnaire. Results: Between‐group differences (p < 0.05) were observed in change scores for physical well‐being and overall peers and social support in favor of IG compared with CG, as well as for physical well‐being in IG girls compared with CG girls. Between‐group differences in change score for overall health knowledge (11.8%, p < 0.001, ES: 0.82) were observed in favor of IG, as well as for playing football (8.9%, p = 0.039, ES: 0.24), be active (8.1%, p = 0.017, ES: 0.32), control your weight (18.5%, p < 0.001, ES: 0.52), wash your hands (19.5%, p < 0.001, ES: 0.59), eat a balanced diet (19.3%, p < 0.001, ES: 0.64), get fit (12.1%, p = 0.007, ES: 0.34), and think positive (5.5%, p = 0.039, ES: 0.22). The program was reported as enjoyable with equal moderate‐to‐high scores for girls (3.68 ± 1.23; ±SD) and boys (3.84 ± 1.17) on a 1–5 Likert Scale. Conclusion: The "11 for Health program for Europe" improved physical well‐being, peers, and social support and broad‐spectrum health knowledge in 10–12‐year‐old Faroese schoolchildren and was rated popular. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Studies of dementia knowledge (including dementia risk reduction) in health‐care trainees highlight varying levels of understanding across countries and disciplines. This draws attention to the need for a well‐trained health workforce with the knowledge to champion and implement such strategies. This study (a) assessed dementia knowledge and health literacy among a sample of Australian health‐care students, (b) identified modality preferences of digital health interventions addressing dementia prevention and (c) examined potential relationships among health literacy, dementia knowledge, dementia prevention knowledge and a student's preferences for different digital health modalities. Methods: A cross‐sectional survey assessed dementia knowledge and health literacy in 727 health students across 16 Australian universities representing both metropolitan and regional cohorts. The All Aspects of Health Literacy Scale and the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale were administered. Questions about the perceived effectiveness of strategies and preferred digital health modalities for dementia prevention/risk reduction were asked. Results: The students had relatively high health literacy scores. However, dementia knowledge and evidence‐based dementia prevention knowledge were average. Only 7% claimed knowledge of available dementia‐related digital health interventions. Associations among health literacy, dementia knowledge and dementia prevention, with recommendations for different digital modalities, are presented. Conclusions: Health‐related degrees need to increase dementia knowledge, health literacy and knowledge of effective dementia‐related digital health interventions. It is imperative to equip the future health workforce amid an ageing population with increased dementia rates and where evidence‐based digital health interventions will increasingly be a source of support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The increasing number of people who use drugs (PWUDs) can be attributed to the rising online sales of drugs and other related substances. Information on drugs and drug markets has also become easily accessible in web‐search engines and social media. Aside from providing direct care, nurses have essential roles in preventing substance use disorder. These roles include health education, liaison, and researcher. Thus, nurses must examine and utilize the Internet, where information and transactions related to these substances are increasing. Design/Methods: This study utilized an infodemiological design in exploring the worldwide information utilization for substance use disorder. Data were gathered from Google Trends and Wikimedia Pageview. The data included relative search volumes (RSV), top and rising related queries and topics, and Wikipedia page views between 2004 and 2022. After describing the data, autoregressive integrated mean averaging (ARIMA) models were used to predict future utilization of online information from Google and Wikipedia. Results: Google trends ranked 37 countries based on the search volumes for substance use disorder. Ethiopia, Finland, the United States, Kenya, and Canada have the highest RSVs, while the lowest‐ranked country is Turkey, followed by Mexico, Spain, Japan, and Indonesia. Google searches for substance use disorder‐related information increased by more than 900% between 2004 and 2022. In addition, Wikipedia page views for substance use disorder‐related information increased by almost 200% between 2015 and 2022. Based on the ARIMA models, RSVs and page views are predicted to increase by about 150% and 120% by December 2025. Top and rising search‐related topics and queries revealed that the public increasingly utilized online information to understand specific substances and the possible mental health comorbidities related to substance use disorders. Their recent concerns revolved around diagnostics, specific substances, and specific disorders. Conclusion: The Internet can be of paradoxical use in substance use disorder. It has been previously reported to be increasingly used in drug trades, contributing to the increasing prevalence of substance use disorder. Likewise, the present study's findings revealed that it is increasingly utilized for substance use disorder‐related information. Thus, nurses and other healthcare professionals should ensure that online information regarding substance use disorders is accurate and up‐to‐date. Clinical Relevance: Nurse informaticists can form and lead Internet‐ and social‐media‐based health teams that perform national infodemiological investigations to assess online information. In doing so, they can inform, expand, and contextualize ehealth substance use education and strengthen the accessibility and delivery of substance use healthcare. In addition, public health nurses can collaborate to engage patients and communities in identifying harmful substance use disorder information online and creating culturally‐appropriate messages that will correct misinformation and improve ehealth literacy, specifically in substance use disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The steadily increasing prevalence of mental disorders in children and adolescents presents itself as a public health challenge, especially given the health, social and economic burden of mental disorders. School‐based interventions aimed at improving mental health literacy and reducing mental health stigma have the potential to prevent mental disorders and promote mental well‐being, thus reducing the burden of mental disorders. This review identified and synthesised evidence on the effectiveness of school‐based interventions designed to improve mental health literacy and reduce mental health stigma. Methods: Electronic bibliographic databases including MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), Child Development and Adolescent Studies, British Education Index and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA) were searched. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were included if they assessed the effectiveness or cost‐effectiveness of school‐based intervention aimed at improving mental health literacy and reducing mental health stigma for children and young people aged 4–18 years. Quality of studies was appraised using the EPHPP tool. A numerical summary and a narrative description of the findings in relation to the research questions were synthesised. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020191265). Results: We identified 21 studies describing 20 unique school‐based mental health interventions. Overall, there is moderate evidence suggesting that school‐based mental health interventions can be effective in improving mental health literacy and reducing mental health stigma defined as attitudes and beliefs regarding mental disorders. However, there is less evidence for their long‐term effectiveness, as most studies did not include follow‐ups. Conclusions: Despite exclusively including studies with randomised designs, intervention and methodological heterogeneity poses uncertainties to any conclusions made. Future research should focus on resolving methodological issues concerning how outcomes are assessed and include process evaluations to better inform the design of an intervention in term of its delivery and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]