Journal Description
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
is a transdisciplinary, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. It covers Global Health, Healthcare Sciences, Behavioral and Mental Health, Infectious Diseases, Chronic Diseases and Disease Prevention, Exercise and Health Related Quality of Life, Environmental Health and Environmental Sciences. The International Society Doctors for the Environment (ISDE) and Italian Society of Environmental Medicine (SIMA) are affiliated with IJERPH and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC, Embase, GEOBASE, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: CiteScore - Q1 (Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 29.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about IJERPH.
- Sections: published in 7 topical sections.
Latest Articles
Paramedic Willingness to Report Violence Following the Introduction of a Novel, Point-of-Event Reporting Process in a Single Canadian Paramedic Service
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030363 (registering DOI) - 19 Mar 2024
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Violence against paramedics is increasingly recognized as an important occupational health problem, but pervasive and institutionalized underreporting hinders efforts at risk mitigation. Earlier research has shown that the organizational culture within paramedicine may contribute to underreporting, and researchers have recommended involving paramedics in
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Violence against paramedics is increasingly recognized as an important occupational health problem, but pervasive and institutionalized underreporting hinders efforts at risk mitigation. Earlier research has shown that the organizational culture within paramedicine may contribute to underreporting, and researchers have recommended involving paramedics in the development of violence prevention policies, including reporting systems. Eighteen months after the launch of a new violence reporting system in Peel Region, Ontario, Canada, we surveyed paramedics about their experiences reporting violent encounters. Our objectives were to assess their willingness to report violence and explore factors that influence their decisions to file a report. Between September and December 2022, a total of 204 (33% of eligible) paramedics chose to participate, of whom 67% (N = 137) had experienced violence since the launch of the new reporting process, with 83% (N = 114) reporting the incidents at least some of the time. After thematically analyzing free-text survey responses, we found that the participants cited the accessibility of the new reporting process and the desire to promote accountability among perpetrators while contributing to a safer workplace as motivating factors. Their decisions to file a report, however, could be influenced by the perceived ‘volitionality’ and severity of the violent encounters, particularly in the context of (un)supportive co-workers and supervisors. Ultimately, the participants’ belief that the report would lead to meaningful change within the service was a key driver of reporting behavior.
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Open AccessReview
Association between the Composition of Drinking Water and Cognitive Function in the Elderly: A Systematic Review
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Annie Wasick and Yeonsoo Kim
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030362 (registering DOI) - 19 Mar 2024
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The prevalence of dementia increases with nearly 10 million new cases each year, with Alzheimer’s disease contributing to 60–70% of cases. Environmental factors such as drinking water have been evaluated to determine if a relationship exists between trace elements in drinking water and
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The prevalence of dementia increases with nearly 10 million new cases each year, with Alzheimer’s disease contributing to 60–70% of cases. Environmental factors such as drinking water have been evaluated to determine if a relationship exists between trace elements in drinking water and the risk of developing cognitive disorders in the elderly. The purpose of the current systematic review was to evaluate an association between the composition of drinking water and cognitive function in the elderly. In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a literature search was conducted using PubMed and CINAHL databases. A total of 10 studies were included in the current systematic review. Aluminum is the most commonly evaluated trace element in studies (n = 8), followed by silica (n = 5), calcium (n = 4), and fluoride (n = 4). Aluminum exposure showed an increased risk of cognitive decline in four studies, with no association reported in the other studies. Higher silica and pH levels were shown to be protective against a decline in cognitive function. A similar protective effect of calcium was found in two studies. Future research should measure multiple trace mineral levels in all water sources to evaluate the impact on cognitive function.
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Open AccessArticle
Trends and Patterns in Electronic Health Record Research (1991–2022): A Bibliometric Analysis of Australian Literature
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Hongmei Xie, Andreas Cebulla, Peivand Bastani and Madhan Balasubramanian
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030361 (registering DOI) - 19 Mar 2024
Abstract
Electronic Heath Records (EHRs) play vital roles in facilitating streamlined service provision and governance across the Australian health system. Given the recent challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, an ageing population, health workforce silos, and growing inefficiencies in traditional systems, a detailed historical
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Electronic Heath Records (EHRs) play vital roles in facilitating streamlined service provision and governance across the Australian health system. Given the recent challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, an ageing population, health workforce silos, and growing inefficiencies in traditional systems, a detailed historical analysis of the use of EHR research in Australia is necessary. The aim of this study is to examine the trends and patterns in EHR research in Australia over the past three decades by employing bibliometric methods. A total of 951 articles published in 443 sources were included in the bibliometric analysis. The annual growth rate of EHR research in Australia was about 17.1%. Since 2022, the main trending topics in EHR research were COVID-19, opioid usage, and natural language processing. A thematic analysis indicated aged care, clinical decision support systems, cardiovascular disease, drug allergy, and adverse drug reaction as the “hot” themes in EHR research in Australia. This study reveals a significant uptrend in EHR research in Australia, highlighting the evolving intellectual and collaborative landscape of this interdisciplinary field. The data also provide guidance for policymakers and funding institutions in terms of the most significant contributions and key fields of research while also holding public interest.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The State of the Art of Health Data Science: Precision Medicine, Predictive Models and Clinical Decision Support Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
Coaching Home Care Clients to Prepare Their Homes for Safe Care Visits: A Mixed-Methods Study to Evaluate a Nurse-Led Educational Intervention Process
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Pia K. Markkanen, Rebecca J. Gore, Susan R. Sama, John E. Lindberg, Catherine J. Galligan and Margaret M. Quinn
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030360 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Assuring home care (HC) workers’ safety is challenging because the work environment is a private home. This paper presents the process evaluation for a proof-of-concept safety intervention study to assess whether nurse-led safety coaching, using motivational interviewing and a safety handbook, could enable
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Assuring home care (HC) workers’ safety is challenging because the work environment is a private home. This paper presents the process evaluation for a proof-of-concept safety intervention study to assess whether nurse-led safety coaching, using motivational interviewing and a safety handbook, could enable HC clients to improve safety in their homes. The process evaluation objectives were to (i) document the intervention’s implementation progress and (ii) assess the intervention’s dose delivery, dose reception, and fidelity. Five agencies employing liaisons (n = 5) and nurse managers (NMs, n = 8) implemented this study’s intervention and control arms. NMs assigned to the intervention arm (n = 6) coached 34 clients. Process evaluation metrics were assessed with mixed-methods data from (i) surveys completed by NMs during the intervention, (ii) postintervention audio-recorded and transcribed interviews (n = 6) with NMs and liaisons, and (iii) study progress tracking tools. The delivered dose efficiency was 85%, measured by the distribution of safety handbook copies to clients. About 94% of clients (n = 32) were considered “engaged” or “maybe engaged” during the safety coaching. Most coached clients (n = 30) were reachable for follow-up by NMs to assess intervention progress. Despite challenges, the intervention was implemented with good fidelity. Safety coaching can be applied in many HC contexts in larger populations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nursing Care: Nurses’ Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors)
Open AccessArticle
Assessing the Quality and Coverage of Maternal Postnatal Care in Bangladesh: A Comparative Analysis of Quality Postnatal Care among Home and Facility Births
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Sabrina Sharmin Priyanka, Dibbya Pravas Dasgupta, Abu Yousuf Md Abdullah, Nazia Binte Ali, Hafeza Khatun and Sk Masum Billah
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030359 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in reducing maternal mortality, yet postpartum deaths remain a significant issue. Emphasis on quality postnatal care (qPNC) is crucial, as increased coverage alone has not sufficiently reduced maternal morbidity and mortality. Methods: This study included data
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Background: Bangladesh has achieved remarkable progress in reducing maternal mortality, yet postpartum deaths remain a significant issue. Emphasis on quality postnatal care (qPNC) is crucial, as increased coverage alone has not sufficiently reduced maternal morbidity and mortality. Methods: This study included data from the Bangladesh Maternal Mortality Survey of 32,106 mothers who delivered within three years prior to the survey. Descriptive statistics were used to report coverage and components of postnatal care stratified by covariates. Log-linear regression models were used to assess the determinants of quality postnatal care among facility and home births. Results: From 2010 to 2016, postnatal care coverage within 48 h of delivery by a qualified provider rose from 23% to 47%. Of the births, 94% were facility births that received timely PNC, contrasted with only 6% for home births. Despite the increased coverage, quality of care remained as low as 1% for home births and 13% for facility births. Key factors affecting qPNC utilization included socio-demographic factors, pregnancy complications, type of birth attendant, delivery method, and financial readiness. Conclusion: Importantly, deliveries assisted by skilled birth attendants correlated with higher quality postnatal care. This study reveals a significant gap between the coverage and quality of postnatal care in rural Bangladesh, especially for home births. It underscores the need for targeted interventions to enhance qPNC.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Addressing Maternal Morbidity and Mortality: Innovations in Antenatal and Postnatal Care)
Open AccessArticle
Surveillance of Infections and Antibiotic Use in 21 Nursing Home Wards during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Systematic Assessment
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Ida Hellum Sandbekken, Åsmund Hermansen, Ellen Karine Grov, Inger Utne and Borghild Løyland
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030358 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Residents in nursing homes are fragile and at high risk of serious illness or death from healthcare-associated infections. The COVID-19 pandemic posed a significant risk of suffering and mortality for residents of nursing homes. Surveillance of infections is essential for infection prevention and
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Residents in nursing homes are fragile and at high risk of serious illness or death from healthcare-associated infections. The COVID-19 pandemic posed a significant risk of suffering and mortality for residents of nursing homes. Surveillance of infections is essential for infection prevention and is missing in many countries. The aim of this study is to explore infection rates and antibiotic use in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data collection was conducted from February to September 2021. Each week, healthcare workers at 21 nursing home wards answered a questionnaire on infections, antibiotic use, deaths, and hospital admissions related to infections. A total of 495 infections were reported, and 97.6% were treated with antibiotics. The total infection rate was 5.37 per 1000 bed days, and there were reported 53 hospital admissions and 11 deaths related to or caused by infections. The infection rate and high use of antibiotics found in this study indicated that it is difficult to treat infections in residents in nursing homes and make it difficult to achieve the global goal of reducing infections and antibiotic resistance rates. This emphasizes the need for stricter infection control programs to reduce antibiotic use and patient suffering.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Assessment for COVID-19)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
What Are the Experiences of Mental Health Practitioners Involved in a Coroner’s Inquest and Other Inquiry Processes after an Unexpected Death of a Patient? A Systematic Review and Thematic Synthesis of the Literature
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Millie Tamworth, Sahra Tekin, Jo Billings and Helen Killaspy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030357 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Grief after suicide or patient-perpetrated homicide can be complex for those involved in the patient’s care. Mental health practitioners with patients who die unexpectedly may be called to assist in the formal investigation processes that follow. The aim of this study was to
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Grief after suicide or patient-perpetrated homicide can be complex for those involved in the patient’s care. Mental health practitioners with patients who die unexpectedly may be called to assist in the formal investigation processes that follow. The aim of this study was to examine the experience of mental health practitioners called to attend a coroner’s inquest or other forms of formal inquiry. A protocol for a systematic review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023400310). A thematic synthesis of existing literature was conducted. We identified six articles for inclusion and constructed three themes from our analysis: Blame and enduring hostility, In the dark, and Limited learning. We found mental health practitioners may construct narratives of self-blame. These can be reinforced by the investigatory processes that follow. Feedback from inquiries is often delivered haphazardly and may not reflect the realities of clinical work. The support given to assist practitioners through inquiry processes varied—both in amount and how helpful it was. The research conducted on this topic is limited. More qualitative research should be conducted to understand the factors that make this experience more or less difficult as well as well as what support is needed for whom.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Psychiatry and Mental Health)
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Prevalence and Correlates of Food and/or Housing Instability among Men and Women Post-9/11 US Veterans
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Yasmin S. Cypel, Shira Maguen, Paul A. Bernhard, William J. Culpepper and Aaron I. Schneiderman
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030356 - 18 Mar 2024
Abstract
Food and/or housing instability (FHI) has been minimally examined in post-9/11 US veterans. A randomly selected nationally representative sample of men and women veterans (n = 38,633) from the post-9/11 US veteran population were mailed invitation letters to complete a survey on health
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Food and/or housing instability (FHI) has been minimally examined in post-9/11 US veterans. A randomly selected nationally representative sample of men and women veterans (n = 38,633) from the post-9/11 US veteran population were mailed invitation letters to complete a survey on health and well-being. Principal component analysis and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify FHI’s key constructs and correlates for 15,166 men and women respondents (9524 men, 5642 women). One-third of veterans reported FHI; it was significantly more likely among women than men (crude odds ratio = 1.31, 95% CI:1.21–1.41) and most prevalent post-service (64.2%). “Mental Health/Stress/Trauma”, “Physical Health”, and “Substance Use” were FHI’s major constructs. In both sexes, significant adjusted associations (p < 0.01) were found between FHI and homelessness, depression, adverse childhood experiences, low social support, being enlisted, being non-deployed, living with seriously ill/disabled person(s), and living in dangerous neighborhoods. In men only, posttraumatic stress disorder (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.37, 95% CI:1.14–1.64), cholesterol level (elevated versus normal, AOR = 0.79, 95% CI:0.67–0.92), hypertension (AOR = 1.25, 95% CI:1.07–1.47), and illegal/street drug use (AOR = 1.28, 95% CI:1.10–1.49) were significant (p < 0.01). In women only, morbid obesity (AOR = 1.90, 95%CI:1.05–3.42) and diabetes (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI:1.06–2.20) were significant (p < 0.05). Interventions are needed that jointly target adverse food and housing, especially for post-9/11 veteran women and enlisted personnel.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Classical and Modern Prejudice toward Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities: The Role of Experienced Contact, Beliefs in a Just World and Social Dominance Orientation
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Rocco Servidio, Ivan Giuseppe Cammarata, Costanza Scaffidi Abbate and Stefano Boca
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030355 - 16 Mar 2024
Abstract
This study investigates the impact of experienced contact on prejudiced attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs), examining beliefs in a just world (BJW) and social dominance orientation (SDO) as potential serial mediators. Data were collected from 224 university students (M = 23.02,
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This study investigates the impact of experienced contact on prejudiced attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disabilities (IDs), examining beliefs in a just world (BJW) and social dominance orientation (SDO) as potential serial mediators. Data were collected from 224 university students (M = 23.02, SD = 2.48). Path analysis modelling assessed the structural relationships between the study variables. The findings revealed that experienced contact was negatively and significantly associated with BJW and SDO. Additionally, BJW and SDO fully mediated the relationship between experienced contact and overt prejudice. These findings underscore the influence of individual differences on attitudes towards individuals with ID, establishing a crucial foundation for future research and the development of interventions aimed at reducing prejudice and discrimination.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Diversity, Identity, and Inclusion in Education, Health, and Work: Ensuring No One Is Left Behind)
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Open AccessArticle
Prevalence and Diagnosis of PCOS Using Electronic Health Records: A Scoping Review and a Database Analysis
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William Atiomo, Mohamed Nor Haq Rizwan, Muhammad Hamza Bajwa, Hussain Juzer Furniturewala, Komal Sundeep Hazari, Deemah Harab, Widad Abdelkareem, Sumayya Inuwa, Amar Hassan Khamis, Muna Tahlak and Fadi G. Mirza
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030354 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, endometrial cancer, infertility, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Accurately identifying predictors of these health risks is crucial.
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, endometrial cancer, infertility, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. Accurately identifying predictors of these health risks is crucial. Electronic health records (EHRs) offer an affordable approach, however, the validity and reliability of EHRs for PCOS diagnosis are unclear. A scoping review of the literature on the prevalence and reliability of the diagnosis of PCOS using EHRs was performed. An analysis of the feasibility of obtaining diagnostic variables from a PCOS patient database was also carried out. Eight studies met the criteria. The prevalence of PCOS ranged from 0.27% to 5.8%. Reliability varied, with one study reporting a sensitivity of 50% and a specificity of 29%. Another study found a 74.4% agreement between international classification of disease (ICD) codes and clinical criteria. The database analysis found only 13.7%, 8%, and 7.5% of women had all the necessary variables for an objective diagnosis of PCOS using the Rotterdam, National Institutes of Health (NIH), and Androgen Excess and PCOS Society (AEPCOS) criteria, respectively. Using EHRs results in an underestimation of PCOS prevalence compared to other diagnostic criteria, and many women identified may not meet the complete diagnostic criteria. These findings have implications for future research studies on PCOS prevalence and related health risks.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Second Edition: Obstetrics and Gynecology in Public Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Community Health Workers in Relation to Environmental Health Hazards in the Nelson Mandela Bay
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David G. Morton and Mpinane F. Senekane
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030353 - 15 Mar 2024
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Background: Community health workers (CHWs) cover extensive areas observing the environmental conditions in which community members live. However, current CHW training modules do not have modules focusing specifically on environmental health. CHWs appear to lack knowledge of environmental health hazards, and little is
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Background: Community health workers (CHWs) cover extensive areas observing the environmental conditions in which community members live. However, current CHW training modules do not have modules focusing specifically on environmental health. CHWs appear to lack knowledge of environmental health hazards, and little is known of their attitudes and practices regarding environmental health hazards. The purpose of this study was to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of CHWs in relation to environmental health hazards in the Nelson Mandela Bay (NMB). Methods: This study used a quantitative, cross-sectional research design. A sample of 110 respondents completed the questionnaire. The questionnaire was based on the literature, consisting of 36 items in four sections. Data analysis consisted of descriptive and inferential statistics. Reliability and validity were enhanced by utilizing a pre-test study. Results: There were significant differences in attitudes (t = −2.308, df = 91.107, p = 0.023) and practices (t = −2.936, df = 62.491, p = 0.005). Those trained in environmental health had a significantly lower mean attitudes score (m = 3.2365, sd = 1.113) compared to those not trained in environmental health (m = 3.694, sd = 0.894). In addition, those trained in environmental health had a significantly lower mean practice score (practiced more frequently) (m = 1.231, sd = 0.327) compared to those not trained in environmental health (m = 1.4605, sd = 0.4162). Regarding training, 62% (n = 67) of CHWs felt they needed additional training in environmental health. Conclusion: Most of the CHWs had a moderate knowledge of environmental health hazards. Furthermore, most of the CHWs had a very positive or positive attitude towards environmental health hazards. However, there is a need for CHWs to receive very specific training in environmental health. In addition, the scope of work of CHWs, as well as their role in relation to environmental health, needs to be further explored.
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Open AccessEssay
The Commercial Determinants of Violence: Identifying Opportunities for Violence Prevention through a Public Health-Based Framework Analysis
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Mark A. Bellis, Sally McManus, Karen Hughes, Olumide Adisa and Kat Ford
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030352 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Violence has immediate and long-term repercussions for the health of individuals and communities. Recent increases in the understanding of public health approaches to violence prevention have focused on the policies and practices of government, health, and other public sector agencies. However, the roles
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Violence has immediate and long-term repercussions for the health of individuals and communities. Recent increases in the understanding of public health approaches to violence prevention have focused on the policies and practices of government, health, and other public sector agencies. However, the roles of commercial bodies in fostering and preventing violence remain largely unaddressed. The wealth and influence of some companies now exceeds that of many countries. Consequently, it is timely to explore the roles of commercial processes in violence. Using a conceptual framework for the commercial determinants of health, we examine seven practices: political; scientific; marketing; supply chain and waste; labor and employment; financial; and reputational management. We include areas directly linked with violence (e.g., firearms) and those that indirectly impact violence through the following: design and promotion of products; employment practices; and impacts on environment, poverty, and local resources. A range of avoidable commercial behaviors are found to increase levels of violence including the following: lobbying practices; distortion of scientific processes; polluting manufacture and supply lines; poor employee protections; financial investment in organizations and regimes associated with violence; and misleading communications and marketing. We conclude commercial actors can take action to ensure their workers, clients, suppliers, and distributors help prevent, not promote, violence. New technologies such as artificial intelligence are transforming corporate processes and products and offer opportunities to implement violence prevention through commercial developments (e.g., monitoring online content). International regulation of commercial behaviors is needed to prevent interpersonal and interstate conflict and harms to health and trade.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)
Open AccessArticle
Content Analysis of Official Public Health Communications in Ontario, Canada during the COVID-19 Pandemic
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Maya Fields and Kelsey L. Spence
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030351 - 15 Mar 2024
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Effective communication by governmental organizations is essential to keep the public informed during a public health emergency. Examining the content of these communications can provide insight into their alignment with best practices for risk communication. We used content analysis to determine whether news
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Effective communication by governmental organizations is essential to keep the public informed during a public health emergency. Examining the content of these communications can provide insight into their alignment with best practices for risk communication. We used content analysis to determine whether news releases by the Ontario government contained key elements of effective risk communication, as outlined by the Health Canada and Public Health Agency of Canada Strategic Risk Communication Framework. News releases between 25 January 2020 and 31 December 2022 were coded following the five elements of the framework: situational transparency, stakeholder-centered content; evidence-based rationales for decisions; continuous improvements in updating information; and descriptions of risk management. All 322 news releases contained at least one element of the framework, and all five elements were identified at least once across the dataset. Risk management, transparency, and stakeholder-centered content were the most frequently identified elements. News releases near the beginning of the pandemic contained most elements of the framework; however, over time, there was an increase in the use of vague language and lack of evidence-based rationales. Increasing transparency regarding evidence-based decisions, as well as changes in decisions, is recommended to improve risk communication and increase compliance with public health measures.
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Open AccessArticle
The Inverse Association between the Frequency of Forest Walking (Shinrin-yoku) and the Prevalence of Insomnia Symptoms in the General Japanese Population: A Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort Daiko Study
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Emi Morita, Hiroshi Kadotani, Naoto Yamada, Tae Sasakabe, Sayo Kawai, Mariko Naito, Takashi Tamura and Kenji Wakai
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030350 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
Since a single forest walk (Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing) session is reported to improve sleep temporarily, occasional forest walks may have a positive effect on daily sleep. Therefore, this study aimed to examine whether more frequent forest walking is associated with better daily
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Since a single forest walk (Shinrin-yoku or forest bathing) session is reported to improve sleep temporarily, occasional forest walks may have a positive effect on daily sleep. Therefore, this study aimed to examine whether more frequent forest walking is associated with better daily sleep conditions. Data from the second survey of the Japan Multi-Institutional Collaborative Cohort (J-MICC) Daiko Study conducted among residents of Nagoya City, Japan, were used. The study design was a cross-sectional study. In total, 2044 participants (529 men and 1515 women; age, mean ± standard deviation: 58.8 ± 9.9 years) were included in the analysis. Frequent forest walks were associated with a low percentage of insomnia symptoms (Insomnia Severity Index ≥10) in women, but not in men. The adjusted odds ratio for the group that rarely took forest walks with reference to the group that engaged in the activity once a month or more often was 2.04 (95% confidence interval: 1.29–3.23) in women. Forest walk frequency was not significantly associated with sleep duration or sleep efficiency as measured by actigraphy in either men or women. In conclusion, the results suggested that increasing the frequency of forest walks or Shinrin-yoku may be effective in preventing insomnia in women.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Nature Therapy: The Physiological Effects of Nature on Humans)
Open AccessArticle
The Work Ability Index (WAI) in the Healthcare Sector: A Cross-Sectional/Retrospective Assessment of the Questionnaire
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Nicola Magnavita, Igor Meraglia, Giacomo Viti and Lorenzo Borghese
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030349 - 15 Mar 2024
Abstract
The Work Ability Index (WAI) is the most widely used questionnaire for the self-assessment of working ability. Because of its different applications, shorter versions, and widespread use in healthcare activities, assessing its characteristics is worthwhile. The WAI was distributed online among the employees
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The Work Ability Index (WAI) is the most widely used questionnaire for the self-assessment of working ability. Because of its different applications, shorter versions, and widespread use in healthcare activities, assessing its characteristics is worthwhile. The WAI was distributed online among the employees of a healthcare company; the results were compared with data contained in the employees’ personal health records and with absence registers. A total of 340 out of 575 workers (59.1%) participated; 6.5% of them reported poor work ability. Exploratory factor analysis indicated that the one-factor version best described the characteristics of the WAI. The scores of the complete WAI, the shorter form without the list of diseases, and the minimal one-item version (WAS) had equal distribution and were significantly correlated. The WAI score was inversely related to age and significantly lower in women than in men, but it was higher in night workers than in their day shift counterparts due to the probable effect of selective factors. The WAI score was also correlated with absenteeism, but no differences were found between males and females in the average number of absences, suggesting that cultural or emotional factors influence the self-rating of the WAI. Workers tended to over-report illnesses in the online survey compared to data collected during occupational health checks. Musculoskeletal disorders were the most frequently reported illnesses (53%). Psychiatric illnesses affected 21% of workers and had the greatest impact on work ability. Multilevel ergonomic and human factor intervention seems to be needed to recover the working capacity of healthcare workers.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Contemporary and Emerging Issues of Occupational Safety and Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Implementing Aging in Place in Hong Kong: Meeting the Needs and Aspirations of Older Adults and Their Caregivers Living in Private Housing
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Jean Woo, Keilee Mok, Wui-Ling Chu, Regina Lo and Rina Ko
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030348 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
A policy of aging in place should be accompanied by physical and social environments that support healthy aging. This article describes how a property development company in Hong Kong sought to elicit the views of older people and their caregivers towards elderly services
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A policy of aging in place should be accompanied by physical and social environments that support healthy aging. This article describes how a property development company in Hong Kong sought to elicit the views of older people and their caregivers towards elderly services through a market research company, using questionnaire surveys followed by focus groups. Over 80% of all participants rated healthy dietary habits and exercise, maintaining mental and spiritual health, and maintaining a generally healthy lifestyle as important. Current health concerns include long waiting times for care at public hospitals, lack of carer should dependency occur, and lack of information about what services are available in the community. Interests in services in their neighbourhood include medical care (82%), healthy lifestyle activities (66%), and home care support (55%). There was considerable interest in the provision of services that improve brain and physical function, as well as general health checks. Carers were willing to pay more for services compared with older adults themselves. The findings inform the development of pilot models of aging in place as a sustainable financial model.
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(This article belongs to the Section Health Care Sciences)
Open AccessArticle
Flourishing or Frightening? Feelings about Natural and Built Green Spaces in Singapore
by
Denise Dillon, Sean T. H. Lee and Eunice W. L. Tai
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030347 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
The current study’s aim was to better understand people’s feelings towards different types of natural and built green space environments in the highly urbanized “garden city” of Singapore. We examined which types of green spaces elicited positive (eudemonic) or negative (apprehensive) affective responses.
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The current study’s aim was to better understand people’s feelings towards different types of natural and built green space environments in the highly urbanized “garden city” of Singapore. We examined which types of green spaces elicited positive (eudemonic) or negative (apprehensive) affective responses. A total of 288 adult residents of Singapore completed a survey that asked them to report their affective states in response to images of 10 locally different environment types and to complete measures of childhood location, frequency of visiting natural/built environments, nature connectedness, and dispositional anxiety, as well as demographic items on age and gender. The 10 green space environment types were mapped onto an experiential state space representing feelings of apprehension and eudemonia in response to specific types of urban green spaces. In terms of a biophilic response, feelings of eudemonia were no different in natural green spaces compared to built green spaces. A higher frequency of experience in specific environments is associated with enhanced feelings of eudemonia in these environments. The findings indicate that people in Singapore can be apprehensive as much in natural green spaces as in built green spaces, and they can also find eudemonic experiences in built green spaces such as roof-top gardens or town parks.
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(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Health)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
A Systematic Review on Intervention Treatment in Pathological Gambling
by
Diana Moreira, Paulo Dias, Andreia Azeredo, Anabela Rodrigues and Ângela Leite
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030346 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Over the last century, there has been a growing interest in researching pathological gambling, particularly in industrialized nations. Historically, gambling was widely perceived as morally questionable, condemned by religious groups. However, contemporary concerns have shifted towards the health repercussions of gambling disorders and
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Over the last century, there has been a growing interest in researching pathological gambling, particularly in industrialized nations. Historically, gambling was widely perceived as morally questionable, condemned by religious groups. However, contemporary concerns have shifted towards the health repercussions of gambling disorders and broader societal impacts like increased crime and money laundering. Governments, aiming to mitigate social harm, often regulate or directly oversee gambling activities. The global surge in legal gambling has resulted in a substantial rise in its prevalence, popularity, and accessibility in the last two decades. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of global research on interventions for pathological gambling. Through a systematic search on platforms such as EBSCO, PubMed, and Web of Science, 13 relevant records were identified. The revised findings indicate a heightened occurrence of behavioral addictions, linking them to the early onset of gambling issues and their severe consequences. The research emphasizes the active role that clients play in the process of self-directed change and therapy. Therapists recognizing clients as both catalysts for change and potential obstacles can enhance their in this institution we have to write in Portuguese sorryeffectiveness. A common source of resistance arises when clients and therapists are in different stages of the change process, underlining the importance of therapists aligning with clients’ readiness for change. Recognizing the urgent need for a better understanding of this problem in adolescents, this study emphasizes the necessity to tailor prevention and treatment plans based on gender and age-specific requirements.
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Open AccessReview
Preconception Health of Indigenous Peoples in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United States: A Scoping Review
by
Clara Walker, Tahmina Begum, Jacqueline A Boyle, James Ward and Federica Barzi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030345 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
Background: There is increasing recognition of the importance of the preconception period for addressing reproductive and intergenerational health inequities and supporting improved maternal and child health outcomes. This study aimed to understand the extent and type of evidence that exists in relation to
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Background: There is increasing recognition of the importance of the preconception period for addressing reproductive and intergenerational health inequities and supporting improved maternal and child health outcomes. This study aimed to understand the extent and type of evidence that exists in relation to preconception health for Indigenous peoples living in high-income countries with similar experiences of colonisation, namely, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the United States. Methods: This review was conducted as per the JBI methodology and PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. A comprehensive search of PubMed, CINAHL [EBSCO], Ovid Embase, Scopus, and the Wiley Cochrane Library was conducted using keywords and index terms. We included research in English published between January 2010 and June 2023 on quantitative and qualitative primary studies. Data were extracted using a standardised tool, and the analysis included quantitative descriptions and qualitative content analysis. Results: We identified 360 potential studies and included 57 articles in the review. Most studies were from the United States (n = 36, 63.2%) and Australia (n = 13, 22.8%), and they commonly reported associations between preconception health risk factors and maternal or child health outcomes (n = 27, 48.2%) or described the development, implementation, or evaluation of preconception health interventions (n = 26, 46.4%). Common preconception health areas were pre-pregnancy body mass index or weight (n = 34), alcohol (n = 16), diet (n = 14), physical activity (n = 12), and diabetes (n = 11). Most studies focused exclusively on women (n = 46, 80.7%), and very few included men (n = 3, 5.3%). The study populations were mostly urban and rural (n = 25, 43.9%) or rural only (n = 14, 24.6%); however, the geographical remoteness was often unclear (n = 14, 24.6%). Conclusions: While there was some research relating to the preconception health of Indigenous peoples, this review identified considerable research gaps. There is a need for dedicated research into preconception health risk factors and reproductive health outcomes, attitudes and awareness of preconception health, and preconception health interventions for Indigenous peoples.
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(This article belongs to the Section Global Health)
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Open AccessArticle
Food Security and Diet Quality Improvements among At-Risk, Low-Income, Older Adults following a Free Meal Pilot Program
by
Makenzie Barr-Porter, Kendra OoNorasak, Tammy Stephenson, Ryan Goodson, Sofia Bonilla and Abraham Alhamdani
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(3), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21030344 - 14 Mar 2024
Abstract
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Older adults are at a greater risk for food insecurity compared to the general population. This study aimed to describe changes in diet quality and food insecurity following a free meal program at low-income, older adult housing complexes. Study participants were recruited from
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Older adults are at a greater risk for food insecurity compared to the general population. This study aimed to describe changes in diet quality and food insecurity following a free meal program at low-income, older adult housing complexes. Study participants were recruited from two low-income older adult public housing complexes in Kentucky. Fifty participants were enrolled and received 1–4 free weekly meals across 3 months as part of the Meals on Wings pilot program. Surveys and a 24 h dietary recall were completed at baseline and 3 months. Participants were predominately female, 69 years of age, and Black or African American race. Food security status (FSS) and dietary quality through the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) were assessed as primary measures. Participants were placed in “at-risk” categories of the (1a) lower quartile of the HEI and (1b) lower than 51% HEI, or (2) “low” or “very low” food security status based on the USDA Household Food Security Screener (FSS). Multiple linear regression (MLR) models were conducted for HEI and FSS scores to include time, group, time*group interaction, and control of meal utilization percentage (i.e., dose). The MLR for the HEI quartile had a significant time by quartile interaction that was present for an increase in the HEI in Q1 (n = 12; 32.42 ± 5.95% to n = 6; 46.10 ± 10.62%; p < 0.0001) and a decrease in the HEI for Q4 (n = 12; 70.68 ± 7.13% to n = 9; 52.36 ± 11.57%; p < 0.0001). For those low food security participants (n = 24; 48.0%), the average food insecurity score from the 6-item USDA screener improved from 4.09 ± 1.62 at baseline to 2.63 ± 2.41 at 3 months (p = 0.0064). The MLR for the FSS had a significant group*time interaction (p = 0.0071). In our population, particularly those vulnerable with lowest dietary quality and food insecurity status, we did see improvements across the free meal pilot program. However, a small sample, limited generalizability, and limited data collection measures urge caution when using these results to extrapolate for the general population. However, the current results are promising and should encourage further investigation of the effects of meal assistance programs on the health and well-being of older adults.
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