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Childbirth self-efficacy is useful measure for maternal well-being and a wide variety of improved perinatal outcomes. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aims to examine the effectiveness of antenatal education on childbirth self-efficacy level of pregnant women. The systematic searches were conducted in nine databases in July 2019. The PRISMA checklist was used. The quality of studies was evaluated by two researchers. The random-effect model was used in the present meta-analysis. The heterogeneity tests, moderator and sensitivity analyses were performed. There were eligible seven articles. Antenatal education had a large, positive effect on outcome expectancy (Effect size = 3.817, 95% CI 1.71 to 5.93, p = .000) and efficacy expectancy (Effect size = 3.520, 95% CI 1.67 to 5.37, p = .000). Substantial evidence suggested high heterogeneity. Antenatal education is effective in promoting women's belief in themselves about not only ability of coping with birth, but also desired outcome of coping behavior which is effective in achieving a positive birth experience. Health professionals should provide antenatal education to promote women's belief about their behavior during the birth process. There are need further studies by considering suggestions of the present study., Author(s): Ayse Deliktas Demirci [sup.1] , Merve Kochan [sup.1] , Kamile Kabukcuoglu [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.29906.34, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecological Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Akdeniz University, , Dumlupinar [...]

Introduction Low prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding in the Arab world is concerning and suboptimal breastfeeding is a leading child health risk factor in several Arab States. Breastfeeding education has the capacity to improve breastfeeding knowledge and practice, thus positively impacting infant and maternal health. The purpose of this review is to identify and examine the impact of breastfeeding promotion interventions across the Arab world. Method A scoping review of the literature was conducted across seventeen databases for relevant publications published through October 2021 to find studies in Arab countries, that involved breastfeeding as an intervention component. Twenty-one articles met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Results Individual and community based educational interventions offer the opportunity to positively impact the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of breastfeeding in new mothers in Arab countries. Increased breastfeeding has the potential to lead to improved neonate and maternal health. In addition to significant benefits found across individual and community-based interventions in a variety of Arab countries, there is also evidence that interventions that improve the knowledge of health care professionals and/or the practices of a health care system can contribute to subsequent increases in breastfeeding rates. Discussion Breastfeeding education is a low-cost and high-impact public health tool that can impact infant and maternal health and potentially increase breastfeeding adherence in the Arab world., Author(s): Basil H. Aboul-Enein [sup.1] [sup.2] , Elizabeth Dodge [sup.3] , Nada Benajiba [sup.4] , Ruth M. Mabry [sup.5] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.441348.e, 0000 0001 0230 4620, College of Health [...]

Overweight and obesity are global public health problems. Although overweight and obesity are high in urban areas, the prevalence of overweight and obesity is increasing steadily in rural areas. However, interventions to address overweight and obesity in rural areas are limited. This study reports on the process of developing a facilitator guide for a nutrition education program on overweight and obesity in rural Ghana. The transtheoretical model guided this study. The study was conducted in three districts in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The facilitator guide was developed according to the Food and Agriculture Organisation's (FAO) guidelines for planning community nutrition education. This study engaged nutrition and agricultural officers working in the study area and academics through an iterative process to draft, revise, and design the facilitator guide. The procedures included a desk literature review, analysis of secondary data, telephone interviews, a seminar and two workshops. The guide consists of five lessons. Lesson 1 creates an awareness of overweight and obesity by providing a definition and the Stunkard Figure Rating Scale. It also includes data on the prevalence of overweight and obesity and abdominal obesity of women in the study area. Lesson 2 discusses body image perceptions and their association with overweight and obesity. Lesson 3 highlights the economic, social and health consequences of overweight and obesity. Lesson 4 explains the four-star diet and how to achieve it. The lesson includes a description of each star of the four-star diet with local examples. Lesson 5 discusses physical activity and steps to increase physical activity. Each lesson ends with a key message. Songs were developed for Lessons 3, 4 and 5. This study describes the process of developing a facilitator guide for overweight and obesity education at the community level. The guide can be used to raise awareness of overweight and obesity and weight management. Key words: Overweight, Obesity, Transtheoretical theory, Four-star diet, Overweight intervention, Exercise, Ghana, INTRODUCTION Overweight and obesity are global public health problems [1,2,3]. In 2020, about one out of every three people was overweight [4]. Overweight and obesity are associated with increased morbidity, [...]

Introduction: Novel teaching curricula using simulated patients (SP) and a team-based approach are needed to teach pediatric residents how to approach behavioral health (BH) conditions in an integrated care setting. Method: This mixed-methods study evaluated a pilot curriculum on BH integration in pediatric primary care. Two 1-hour didactic sessions and 3 hours of SP encounters focused on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety, followed by facilitated debriefings that included interdisciplinary team members. Residents completed pre- and postcurriculum surveys on self-efficacy in patient assessment and management. A subset of residents participated in semistructured interviews, reviewing video recordings of their SP encounters to facilitate reflection on their learning. We conducted qualitative analysis of interview transcripts until we reached thematic saturation. Results: Residents (n = 31) reported significantly improved self-efficacy in the majority of BH skills (p [less than or equal to] .05 to p < .0001), including assessing and discussing concerns with families, using screening tools, developing management plans, prescribing medications, and performing warm handoffs with BH clinicians. In analysis of 15 interviews, four themes emerged: shared experiences, mutual engagement, contextual meaning, and behavioral change, which aligned with the components of the communities of practice framework. Sharing experiences within an integrated BH-pediatric primary care learning community enhanced activated, self-reflective learning and consequent behavioral change that contributed to identity formation. Discussion: Resident participation in the integrated BH-pediatric curriculum improved self-efficacy in patient care for anxiety and ADHD. Curricula implemented in integrated learning communities could help promote reflection and improve integrated pediatric-BH care, including warm handoffs from pediatric to BH providers. Keywords: behavioral health, integrated primary care, pediatric residents, simulated patients, warm handoff, Behavioral health (BH) conditions affect at least 20% of the pediatric population. Skillful management of complex behavioral problems requires active listening and implementing evidence-based practice that interfaces with BH professionals. [...]

As many individuals in the general population will likely interact with autistic persons in various contexts, ensuring adequate autism knowledge and awareness is important. Increased knowledge of autism has been linked to positive outcomes such as a reduction in explicit bias against autism by non-autistic adults and an increase in service quality for autistic individuals provided by indirect professionals. For this study we developed an informational video about autism and employed a randomized control trial to evaluate its effectiveness at increasing autism awareness in a general population sample. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 80) or active control group (n = 72). Results from a repeated measures analysis of variance indicated that the video intervention was effective at increasing knowledge about autism. Results from this study can be applied to future educational efforts aimed at increasing awareness about autism among the general population., Author(s): Jennifer Ha [sup.1] , Maryellen Brunson McClain [sup.1] , Benjamin Covington [sup.1] , Megan E. Golson [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.53857.3c, 0000 0001 2185 8768, Department of Psychology, Utah [...]

Sleep is a major contributor to physical and mental health, so that poor sleep causes many problems in daily life. It's proved that risky behaviors such as drug abuse are associated with sleeping problems. Therefore, we conducted this study to investigate the effect of sleep hygiene training on sleep quality and mental health in patients with substance abuse. We conducted this randomized controlled clinical trial on 74 patients and divided them into intervention and control groups (n = 37). Before and immediately after the completion of sleep hygiene training, participants completed the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale - 21 (DASS-21) mental health questionnaire. After providing the intervention, components of Sleep Disturbances (P = 0.02), Sleep Medicine use (P = 0.003), daytime dysfunction (P = 0.01), Depression and Stress (P = 0.002), and anxiety (P = 0.03) were significantly reduced compared to the control group. Therefore, sleep hygiene training could effectively improve sleep quality and reduced depression, stress, and anxiety in patients with substance abuse., Author(s): Negar Barati [sup.1] , Zahra Amini [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.411036.1, 0000 0001 1498 685X, Department of Community and Family Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, , Isfahan, Iran [...]

Background Health education via DVD/video has been demonstrated as a novel method to encourage a positive change and improvement in patients' health behaviors. A community health project was implemented in Cao Bang, a mountainous area of Vietnam, for health workers to use tablets, portable projectors, and television to disseminate health education messages via designed video clips. Method and Objectives A qualitative study using semi-structured individual and group interviews was conducted with 25 health workers in Trung Khanh district to explore their experience of using video in providing health education. Results The video was confirmed to be an accessible, interactive, and flexible tool supporting health education activities in this mountainous area. However, some health workers in the mountainous area struggled due to a lack of technological skills and responsibility for their work. Conclusions for Practice More training on using technology for health professionals and incorporating video-based health education activities into labor contract-based responsibilities can alleviate present obstacles., Author(s): Thi Thanh Huong Nguyen [sup.1] , Phuong Anh Hoang [sup.1] [sup.2] , Thi Thuy Hao Mai [sup.3] , Thi Hoa Huyen Nguyen [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.507915.f, 0000 0004 [...]

Introduction Short message service (SMS), or text-based, health interventions offer a promising opportunity to deliver health education and have been shown to improve diet and exercise. However, few are theory-based or target low-income parents. This pilot study, informed by the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), primarily sought to determine if health education delivered via SMS was feasible and acceptable to low-income parents of young children. Methods Using a one-group, pre- to post-test study design to assess a 12-week SMS-based health education program, parents enrolled in a health-related program at an early childhood development center for low-income families were sent three text messages per week that corresponded to a weekly diet or physical activity-related theme. Surveys assessed pre-post changes in TPB constructs and collected program feedback. Results Among the 119 eligible parents invited to participate, 109 were sent all text messages for the duration of the study. Participants were mostly Black (98.9%), 25-39 years old (83.9%), female (93.8%), and in single-parent households (63.8%). More than half (n = 59) completed the pre-survey, answered a bi-directional program text, or completed the post-survey. Twelve participants completed both the pre- and post-survey and at least one bi-directional text. Post-survey results revealed that most participants liked the program design and enjoyed their experience with the program. Conclusions SMS-based interventions can simplify delivery of health information to low-income parents of young children. Although engagement was low, retention was high, and feedback was largely positive., Author(s): Melissa Goldin Evans [sup.1] , Julia Fleckman [sup.1] , Tylar T. Williams [sup.1] [sup.2] , Stephanie M. Tokarz [sup.1] , Katherine P. Theall [sup.1] Author Affiliations: (1) grid.265219.b, 0000 [...]

: Objective: A high prevalence of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) among Aboriginal children in northern Australia is coupled with low understanding among families. This has negative impacts on children's health, limits opportunities for prevention and suggests that better health communication is needed. Methods: During an RHD echocardiography screening project, Aboriginal teachers in a remote community school created lessons to teach children about RHD in their home languages, drawing on principles of community‐led development. Access to community‐level RHD data, previously unknown to teachers and families, was a catalyst for this innovative work. Careful, iterative discussions among speakers of four Aboriginal languages ensured a culturally coherent narrative and accompanying teaching resources. Results: The evaluation demonstrated the importance of collective work, local Indigenous Knowledge and metaphors. As a result of the lessons, some children showed new responses and attitudes to skin infections and their RHD treatment. Language teachers used natural social networks to disseminate new information. A community interagency collaboration working to prevent RHD commenced. Conclusions and implications for public health: Action to address high rates of RHD must include effective health communication strategies that value Indigenous Knowledge, language and culture, collaborative leadership and respect for Indigenous data sovereignty., Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) is prevalent among young people in many sites of social disadvantage globally, with one location being Aboriginal towns and communities in northern Australia. RHD is a [...]

Context: Teaching kitchens are emerging innovative and engaging models for creating lifestyle behavior change. They are increasingly being utilized in workplace settings. Objective: The Emory Healthy Kitchen Collaborative (EHKC) year-long worksite wellness teaching kitchen program sought to improve self-reported health behaviors, including food choices, cooking skills, and mindful eating habits. Study Design and Analysis: This 12-month program included a 10-week didactic and experiential curriculum followed by continued support and access to health coaching. Participant t-tests were used to compare results at different time points. Setting: Emory worksite wellness program Population Studied: Forty benefits-eligible Emory employees aged 18-65, were recruited to participate in the EHKC. Preference was given to employees with elevated body mass index, co-morbid conditions, and high lifestyle change motivation levels. Intervention/Instrument and Outcome Measures: Self-assessment instruments were obtained at baseline, 3-months, 6-months and 12-months. This included the 8-item Starting the Conversation (STC) food frequency instrument, eight questions from a 17-item cooking frequency and confidence questionnaire, and a 28-item mindful eating questionnaire. Results: Between May 30-June 30, 2019, 40 benefits-eligible Emory employees were enrolled in the EHKC. Dietary eating patterns improved significantly throughout the duration of the program year, as measured by the STC. The largest improvement in STC occurred from baseline to three months (mean: 2.18, standard deviation: 2.35, p-value: p=0.002). Although cooking frequency and confidence trended towards improvement, there were no significant changes. The mindfulness eating questionnaire improved significantly at 3-months (0.27, 0.32, p Conclusion: The EHKC worksite wellness program provided valuable knowledge and insight into the use of a teaching kitchen as a unique health care delivery model. The program significantly improved participant dietary patterns and mindful eating habits; though did not significantly improve cooking confidence or frequency. Further research is needed to understand long term health consequences and disease risk reduction of the EHKC program., Presenters Miranda Moore, PhD, Danyang Wang, Sharon Bergquist, Jonathan Bonnet, Krystyna Rastorguieva, [...]

Editor's Note: In an effort to promote the growth of the environmental health profession and the academic programs that fuel that growth, the National Environmental Health Association has teamed up [...]

Objectives Nutrition during pregnancy is related with many maternal and child outcomes. To investigate the consumption of ultra-processed foods is one of the newest methods to evaluate food consumption, but these studies in pregnant women are rare. Methods We conducted a non-randomized controlled educational intervention on healthy eating and physical activity during pregnancy in primary health care units of Botucatu, São Paulo, Brazil. The sample comprised two groups of pregnant women with low obstetric risk, an intervention group (n = 181) and a control group (n = 172). The health professionals that assisted the pregnant women from the intervention group were trained to promote five healthy food practices during the prenatal care appointments: consumption of three fruits; two portions of vegetables; two portions of beans, at least 5 days per week; and restriction of soft drinks and industrially processed cookies. All pregnant women answered two 24-h dietary recalls per trimester, one face-to-face, another by telephone. The foods consumed by pregnant women were classified according Nova. The impact of the intervention on the ultra-processed food consumption was evaluated by multilevel linear regression analysis. Results A quarter of the energy consumed by the pregnant women provided from ultra-processed foods. The intervention reduced these percentage of energy between the first and second trimester of pregnancy by 4.6 points (p = 0.015). This effect was not observed in the third trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions for Practice Training health care professionals to promote healthy food practices is a viable and sustainable alternative to reduce ultra-processed foods during pregnancy., Author(s): Caroline de Barros Gomes [sup.1] , Maíra Barreto Malta [sup.2] , Maria Laura da Costa Louzada [sup.3] , Maria Helena D'Aquino Benício [sup.2] , Aluísio J. D. Barros [sup.4] [...]

The education and training provided by the Council of Academic Public Health Institutions of Australasia (CAPHIA) member institutions has underpinned the Australasian response to COVID‐19. To advance public health safety [...]

Kwashiorkor and Marasmus, which are forms of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) are common malnutrition syndromes in the developing world. In the Republic of South Sudan effort has been placed on increasing local nutrition knowledge, through training, improving hygiene practices and access to safe water. These efforts aimed at mitigation of acute malnutrition in communities. The present study assessed the level of nutrition education and training interventions for breastfeeding mothers to address malnutrition among children. As well, it aimed at identification of areas for improvement in the training. The study used qualitative approaches that included focus group discussions, key informant interviews and observation. The findings showed that the training programs were well received by the mothers. The programs raised awareness and interest of the mothers in their children's wellbeing and need to take their children to health care centers immediately they notice sickness in their children. Specific nutrition aspects in the programs included; exclusive breast feeding immediately after giving birth until six months and preparation of special foods for the children. Pedagogical aspects addressed included appropriate methods and proper use of teaching aids. An integrated approach in training is recommended to avoid separation of related objectives and ensure integration of functional outcomes. Training activities at health centers used face to face contact with the mothers, but the messages were a one way communication without the mothers' perspectives, which affected interaction and feedback from the mothers. The training interventions at health centers lacked active community participation and gender balance. Future training programs should address the socio-cultural practices that accelerate malnutrition and those that mitigate malnutrition. Keywords: malnutrition, training, kwashiorkor, wasting, interventions, Introduction Kwashiorkor and Marasmus, which are forms of protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and wasting, are common malnutrition syndromes rampant in the developing world. The syndromes occur as a result of inadequate [...]

Editor' S Note: NEHA strives to provide up-to-date and relevant information on environmental health and to build partnerships in the profession. In pursuit of these goals, we feature this column [...]

Bed bugs continue to affect society and place a burden on public health systems. Experiences of the Let's Beat the Bug! campaign are presented to help information networks prepare personnel to effectively address questions about this pest. Following recommendations from the Minnesota state bed bug working group, an information line was established and the Web site (www.bedbugs.umn.edu) was revised. Data from both services were analyzed by geographic region and type of information requested. InformationLine primarily assisted people who had issues dealing with failed treatments and landlord reluctance to take effective measures against this pest. Web site visits indicated a preference for learning do-it-yourself control methods. There were commonalities in the information sought from both services. People were often looking for reassurance, in addition to information about basic prevention and control of bed bugs. We present here priority topics that public health personnel should be prepared to answer if they receive inquiries about bed bugs., Introduction Public education has been emphasized as the primary mechanism for reducing the spread of bed bugs (Rossi & Jennings, 2010). The rapid spread of bed bugs, an antiquated knowledge [...]

There are two things we know for sure about autism: These children learn differently, and their parents are desperately looking for help. And one thing that is becoming increasingly clear is that exercise can help a lot of kids, maybe even most. With all the dedicated and tireless research efforts that prove exercise can make a positive impact on autism, it is a surprise that exercise is still not more accepted by both parents and schools. To get the parents, teachers, administrators and therapists on board, we have to adapt to their needs. Raising more awareness is not the answer. That approach begs more questions. We need to educate, teach them simple exercises, and share the success stories of what exercise can do. The results speak for themselves, and they speak in a loud, clear voice. Exercise makes things better. Keywords: autism, exercise, In physical education classes across America, children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) are often left wandering and wondering. The unsensory-friendly environment, variety of learning styles, and lack of visual supports [...]

Abstract Over three decades since its discovery, HTV/AIDS remains a critical public health challenge. An estimated 1.41 million AIDS cases, and approximately 659,000 AIDS-related deaths, were reported to the Centers [...]

Dear Editor: Hepatitis C (HCV) is the most common blood-borne virus in the United States (US), infecting an estimated 1.6% of the US population, corresponding to 4.1 million people (Armstrong [...]