International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

11 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Attitudes of Community Health Nurses Towards Postnatal Home Visitation: A Study in the Ashanti Region of Ghana

by Yvonne Agyeman-Duah and Million Bimerew

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 534; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040534 - 1 Apr 2025

Viewed by 189

Abstract

Enhancing maternal and newborn care is a key priority for governments worldwide. World leaders have taken deliberate steps to improve these essential services, with an emphasis on postnatal care, including home visits for mothers and their newborns. However, in the Ashanti Region and [...] Read more.

Enhancing maternal and newborn care is a key priority for governments worldwide. World leaders have taken deliberate steps to improve these essential services, with an emphasis on postnatal care, including home visits for mothers and their newborns. However, in the Ashanti Region and across Ghana, challenges surrounding the delivery and effectiveness of postnatal home visits remain a significant concern. This study aimed to assess the attitudes of Community Health Nurses towards postnatal home visitation in selected districts of the Ashanti Region. A quantitative survey approach was used to gather data from 100 CHNs randomly selected from 10 regional districts. Structured questionnaires were used to gather quantitative data from CHNs. Findings from the study were analysed using descriptive and inferential tests. The study results indicated that most of the CHNs were young adults, 35 years of age (79%), with the majority having 3–5 years of work experience. The respondents generally demonstrated a negative attitude towards PNHV as they believed it was an extra workload, time-consuming, and unnecessary. A Pearson chi-square test indicated strong significant association between CHNs’ attitude towards the components of the attitude scale and years of experience as well as their age. In conclusion, the study revealed that even though CHNs are expected, as part of their job description, to embark on home visitation activities, most of them have a negative attitude towards this professional duty. There should be conscientious, novel ways to ignite the interest of these essential service providers to help improve infant and maternal health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

14 pages, 555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Ideal Cardiovascular Health Behaviors on Mental Health and Well-Being Among Baltic Countries Adolescents: Findings from the HBSC Study

by Rafaela C. Espírito Santo, Geiziane R. Melo, Viney P. Dubey and Cesar Agostinis-Sobrinho

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040491 - 25 Mar 2025

Viewed by 177

Abstract

This study explored the association between ideal cardiovascular health behaviors (ICHBs) and mental health and well-being in Baltic adolescents using data from the 2018 HBSC survey. ICHBs included smoking status, body mass index, physical activity, and healthy diet adherence. Mental health included low [...] Read more.

This study explored the association between ideal cardiovascular health behaviors (ICHBs) and mental health and well-being in Baltic adolescents using data from the 2018 HBSC survey. ICHBs included smoking status, body mass index, physical activity, and healthy diet adherence. Mental health included low mood, irritability, nervousness, and sleep difficulties, while well-being included life satisfaction and self-reported health. Multi-regression analyses were performed. The study included 12,934 adolescents (mean age: 13.6 ± 1.6 years). Non-smokers, non-overweight individuals, and physically active participants were more likely to report good mental health, higher life satisfaction, and better self-reported health. Adherence to a healthy diet was linked to improved self-reported health and greater life satisfaction. Compared to those with four ICHBs (reference), adolescents with only one ICHB had higher odds of feeling low (OR = 0.28, 95% CI: 0.13–0.62), irritability (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.19–0.66), nervousness (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.13–0.55), and sleep difficulties (OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.14–0.61). Adolescents with two ICHBs had higher odds of feeling low (OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.20–0.97) and nervousness (OR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.19–0.83). These findings highlight the importance of promoting multiple ideal health behaviors to improve mental health and well-being among adolescents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 978 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Limitations and Use of General Health Examination and Cancer Screening Among People with Disabilities Who Need Support from Others: Secondary Data Analysis of the 2022 Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions in Japan

by Takashi Saito, Kumiko Imahashi and Chikako Yamaki

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040484 - 24 Mar 2025

Viewed by 232

Abstract

Functional limitations that compromise preventive healthcare service utilization by people with disabilities in Japan are unelucidated. Secondary data from the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (CSLC) in 2022 on the functional limitations defined by the Washington Group Short Set may bridge the knowledge [...] Read more.

Functional limitations that compromise preventive healthcare service utilization by people with disabilities in Japan are unelucidated. Secondary data from the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions (CSLC) in 2022 on the functional limitations defined by the Washington Group Short Set may bridge the knowledge gap, with evaluation of the generalizability of the knowledge as CSLC2022 was conducted in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. We described the number and types of functional limitations among people with disabilities who did not participate in the general health examination and cancer screenings. For the generalizability evaluation, we analyzed preventive service uptake and its relevance to disability status and compared them with compatible data from the CSLC from 2016, conducted before the pandemic. Among the eligible data, the percentage of people with disabilities among the preventive healthcare service non-participants was 2.40–3.66% (n = 129–239); one-third had two or more types of functional limitations. Functional limitations in mobility and self-care (basic activities of daily living [BADL]) are common and dominant issues. No obvious difference was observed regarding the aforementioned statistics between CSLC2022 and CSLC2016. Reasonable accommodation for people with BADL related to uni- or multifunctional limitations may contribute to increased accessibility to preventive healthcare services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 472 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Lifestyle Factors and Associations with Individual and Comorbid Cardiometabolic and Pulmonary Disease Among U.S. Adults

by Osayande Agbonlahor, Delvon T. Mattingly, Maggie K. Richardson, Joy L. Hart, Alison C. McLeish and Kandi L. Walker

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(12), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21121674 - 16 Dec 2024

Viewed by 897

Abstract

Background: Although lifestyle factors have been linked to chronic diseases among adults, their association with diagnosed individual and comorbid cardiometabolic (CMD) and pulmonary disease (PD) is not fully known. This study aimed to examine the associations between lifestyle factors and individual and comorbid [...] Read more.

Background: Although lifestyle factors have been linked to chronic diseases among adults, their association with diagnosed individual and comorbid cardiometabolic (CMD) and pulmonary disease (PD) is not fully known. This study aimed to examine the associations between lifestyle factors and individual and comorbid CMD and PD among U.S. adults. Methods: We used cross-sectional data from the 2017–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (n = 7394). Health care provider’s diagnosis of CMD and PD and lifestyle factors (i.e., past 5-day tobacco use, past 12-month alcohol use, diet, sleep troubles, and physical activity) were assessed. Adjusted odds ratios were estimated using logistic and multinomial logistic regression. Results: Trouble sleeping was associated with increased odds of CMD (OR: 2.47) and PD (OR: 2.29) individually, while physical activity was associated with lower odds (OR: 0.75, OR: 0.77). Past 5-day tobacco (OR: 2.36) and past year alcohol (OR: 1.61) use were associated with increased PD odds. Lifestyle factors were associated with increased odds of comorbid CMD and PD. Conclusions: Lifestyle factors were associated with increased odds of individual and comorbid CMD and PD among adults. CMD and PD prevention should involve promoting lifestyle modification and implementation of policies that eliminate structural barriers to healthy lifestyle adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1267 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sense of School Belonging as a Mediator of the Relationship between Witnessing Bullying and Internalizing Symptoms

by Diana M. Doumas and Aida Midgett

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(7), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21070873 - 4 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1486

Abstract

Bullying is a significant public health concern associated with mental health risks. Negative bullying outcomes extend beyond targets, with students who witness bullying reporting negative associated mental health consequences. Because bullying often occurs within the school setting, understanding the relationship between witnessing bullying [...] Read more.

Bullying is a significant public health concern associated with mental health risks. Negative bullying outcomes extend beyond targets, with students who witness bullying reporting negative associated mental health consequences. Because bullying often occurs within the school setting, understanding the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms within the school environment can help shape school-based bullying prevention. The purpose of this study was to examine sense of school belonging as a mediator of the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms. We conducted two studies with middle school students (N = 130; N = 147) in which we used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the mediational model. Results from Study 1 and Study 2 supported the mediational model, indicating that one explanation for the relationship between witnessing bullying and internalizing symptoms is that witnessing bullying negatively impacts students’ sense of school belonging, which in turn increases internalizing symptoms. Results from this study provide support for the importance of students’ perceptions of school climate in the development of internalizing symptoms related to witnessing bullying. Implications for school-based bullying prevention programs are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 869 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discrimination Experiences among Asian American and Pacific Islander Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Their Association with Mental Health Outcomes: Updated Findings from the COMPASS Study

by Marcelle M. Dougan, Marian Tzuang, Bora Nam, Oanh L. Meyer, Janice Y. Tsoh and Van M. Ta Park

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060799 - 19 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1748

Abstract

Background: Reports of escalated discrimination experiences among Asian American and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) continue. Methods: Using the original and follow-up surveys of the COVID-19 Effects on the Mental and Physical Health of AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islanders) Survey Study (COMPASS [...] Read more.

Background: Reports of escalated discrimination experiences among Asian American and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders (AANHPI) continue. Methods: Using the original and follow-up surveys of the COVID-19 Effects on the Mental and Physical Health of AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islanders) Survey Study (COMPASS I and COMPASS II) (n = 3177), we examined changes over approximately a 1-year period in discrimination experiences attributable to being AAPI and factors associated with worse mental health outcomes. Results: Experiences of discrimination remained high in COMPASS II with 60.6% (of participants (compared to 60.2% among the same people in COMPASS I) reporting one or more discrimination experiences, and 28.6% reporting worse mental health outcomes. Experiences of discrimination were associated with modest but significant increase in the odds of worse mental health: adjusted OR 1.02 (95% CI 1.01–1.04). Being younger, being of Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander or Hmong descent (relative to Asian Indian), and having spent 50% or less of their lifetime in the US (vs. US born), were significantly associated with worse mental health. Conclusions: The fall-out from the pandemic continues to adversely impact AANHPI communities. These findings may help influence policy initiatives to mitigate its effects and support interventions designed to improve mental health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 692 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mitigating Identity-Related Anxiety through Humor and Immersive Storytelling with 360-Degree Video in Virtual Reality: A Study on Microaggressions’ Mental Health Effects

by Changmin Yan, Alan Eno and Adam Wagler

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 713; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060713 - 31 May 2024

Viewed by 1730

Abstract

Background: Microaggressions are subtle slights that can cause significant psychological distress among marginalized groups. Few studies have explored interventions that might mitigate these effects. Objective: This study aimed to investigate if and how humor-infused immersive storytelling via virtual reality (VR) could [...] Read more.

Background: Microaggressions are subtle slights that can cause significant psychological distress among marginalized groups. Few studies have explored interventions that might mitigate these effects. Objective: This study aimed to investigate if and how humor-infused immersive storytelling via virtual reality (VR) could reduce identity-related psychological distress caused by microaggressions. Methods: Using a community-based participatory research approach, we developed a 7-min 360-degree VR film depicting scenarios of microaggressions across various identities. Forty-six college students participated in a controlled study where they were exposed to this immersive VR experience. We measured identity-related psychological anxiety, character identification, perceived humor, and perceived psychological presence. Results: The findings demonstrated a significant anxiety reduction following the VR intervention, supporting the efficacy of humor-infused storytelling in alleviating the impact of microaggressions. Character identification significantly predicted anxiety reduction, while perceived humor and psychological presence did not directly influence anxiety reduction but indirectly contributed through enhanced character identification. Conclusions: Humor-infused immersive storytelling, facilitated by VR, effectively reduces identity-related psychological distress primarily through character identification. The structural equation modeling results emphasize the importance of integrating humor and psychological presence to enhance character connection, advocating for a balanced approach that combines traditional narrative elements with technological innovations in health interventions aimed at combating the adverse psychological effects of microaggressions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 616 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Office Design’s Impact on Psychosocial Work Environment and Emotional Health

by Christina Bodin Danielsson and Töres Theorell

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(4), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21040438 - 3 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3346

Abstract

This study explores the association between office design and (a) the psychosocial work environment and (b) the emotional health among 4352 employees in seven different office designs. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed with adjustments for age and educational level for men [...] Read more.

This study explores the association between office design and (a) the psychosocial work environment and (b) the emotional health among 4352 employees in seven different office designs. A multivariate linear regression analysis was performed with adjustments for age and educational level for men and women separately. Results show that psychosocial factors and emotional exhaustion differ between both office designs and between genders, with best outcomes in cell offices, except for psychological demands that are rated the most favourable in shared-room offices. Cell offices and small open-plan offices show a strong beneficial association with emotional exhaustion in women. Among men, hot-desking is most problematic regarding psychosocial work environment and emotional exhaustion. Women rate the psychosocial environment low in combi-office and report emotional exhaustion in small open offices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Children and Adolescents with Early Treated Phenylketonuria: Cognitive Development and Fluctuations of Blood Phenylalanine Levels

by Reinhold Feldmann, Ulrike Och, Lisa Sophie Beckmann, Josef Weglage and Frank Rutsch

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(4), 431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21040431 - 2 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1958

Abstract

Background: We assessed the relationship between the cognitive development of children and adolescents with phenylketonuria (PKU) and fluctuations in peripheral phenylalanine (Phe) levels. Methods: We examined the neurocognitive performance of 33 children and adolescents with early treated PKU, of whom 18 were treated [...] Read more.

Background: We assessed the relationship between the cognitive development of children and adolescents with phenylketonuria (PKU) and fluctuations in peripheral phenylalanine (Phe) levels. Methods: We examined the neurocognitive performance of 33 children and adolescents with early treated PKU, of whom 18 were treated with sapropterin dihydrochloride, and 15 were on a classic diet. For 26 weeks, patients were assessed weekly for their blood phenylalanine (Phe) levels. Phe levels were analyzed for fluctuations indicated by the individual standard deviation. Fluctuations were compared to the standard deviation of 26 Phe level measurements before the study interval. We also assessed the concurrent IQ of the patients. This was repeated at one-, two-, and seven-year intervals. Results: Full-scale IQ in patients treated with a classic diet did not change within the follow-up. In patients treated with Sapropterin dihydrochloride, however, there was a considerable gain in full-scale IQ. This was particularly true if blood Phe fluctuations increased in patients of this treatment group. Conclusions: Sapropterin dihydrochloride enhances Phe tolerance in patients with PKU. Increasing blood Phe fluctuations following enhanced Phe tolerance may indicate that the treatment not only allows patients to relax their Phe-restricted diet but also may support cognitive development in patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

16 pages, 292 KiB

Open AccessReview

Contributions of Health Psychology to Climate Change: A Review

by Elisa Kern de Castro and Marta Reis

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(4), 634; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22040634 - 17 Apr 2025

Viewed by 307

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to human health, necessitating interdisciplinary approaches to mitigate its effects. Health psychology, with its focus on behavior change and well-being, is uniquely positioned to contribute to climate action. This review examines how health psychology can address climate-related [...] Read more.

Climate change poses a significant threat to human health, necessitating interdisciplinary approaches to mitigate its effects. Health psychology, with its focus on behavior change and well-being, is uniquely positioned to contribute to climate action. This review examines how health psychology can address climate-related challenges, emphasizing psychological responses to environmental stressors, behavior modification strategies, and public health interventions. The findings indicate that climate change functions as a psychological stressor, contributing to anxiety, depression, and eco-distress. Additionally, behavioral science insights are underutilized in climate governance, despite their potential to drive sustainable actions. Health psychology can enhance climate adaptation by promoting pro-environmental behaviors, fostering resilience, and integrating psychological well-being into policy frameworks. However, barriers such as limited interdisciplinary collaboration and insufficient emphasis on systemic change hinder progress. To maximize impact, health psychologists must engage in climate governance, advocate for policy integration, and address both individual and collective behavior change. Future research should explore the intersection of mental health, climate resilience, and behavior adaptation to develop comprehensive strategies for tackling climate change. This review underscores the urgent need for health psychology to play a more active role in shaping climate policy and fostering sustainable, health-promoting behaviors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

15 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessReview

Exploring Financial Challenges and University Support Systems for Student Financial Well-Being: A Scoping Review

by Joanna Russell, Kylie Austin, Karen E. Charlton, Ezinne O. Igwe, Katherine Kent, Kelly Lambert, Gabrielle O’Flynn, Yasmine Probst, Karen Walton and Anne T. McMahon

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(3), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22030356 - 27 Feb 2025

Viewed by 3963

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Financial stress among university students has been widely documented, impacting academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. This scoping review explores and synthesizes the existing evidence on the extent and impact of financial challenges experienced by university students in Australia and New [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Financial stress among university students has been widely documented, impacting academic performance, mental health, and overall well-being. This scoping review explores and synthesizes the existing evidence on the extent and impact of financial challenges experienced by university students in Australia and New Zealand and examines approaches implemented by universities in these countries to address these challenges. Methods: The Arksey and O’Malley framework was utilized for comprehensiveness, structure, and reproducibility. Four scientific databases (Scopus, ProQuest, Web of Science, and Informit) were searched until 30 June 2024, and 3542 articles were identified. Following extensive screening, 19 studies were included. The studies were summarized using a narrative synthesis approach. Results: This review suggests that financial stress continues to be experienced by Australian/New Zealand university students. Some studies indicate that over half (8–68%) of students face significant financial issues and 96% of students report high emotional stress. Some groups are more vulnerable than others. Notably, students from low socio-economic status (SES) backgrounds and international students have increased vulnerability due to factors such as inadequate financial support and limited access to job opportunities and support services. Support services available for students included emergency grants, food pantries (including international students), and community gardens but with limited impact in addressing underlying financial hardships. Conclusion: This review highlights the persistent financial challenges faced by vulnerable university students in Australia and New Zealand. It calls for comprehensive strategies to enhance support services and address structural issues in government and institutional policies. Addressing these needs will enable improved student academic success and mental and physical well-being in these vulnerable groups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2712 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improving Child and Adolescent Mental Health: A Bibliometric Analysis of Related Intervention Studies

by Gaoran Chen, Wenqi Chen, Shaojie Qi and Daniel T. L. Shek

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(12), 1576; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21121576 - 27 Nov 2024

Viewed by 1852

Abstract

In response to the increase in adolescent mental health problems, related intervention research has flourished. This study examined 2258 mental health intervention studies captured by the Web of Science, focusing on their distribution, interdisciplinary collaboration, and emerging trends, using bibliometric analysis. Our findings [...] Read more.

In response to the increase in adolescent mental health problems, related intervention research has flourished. This study examined 2258 mental health intervention studies captured by the Web of Science, focusing on their distribution, interdisciplinary collaboration, and emerging trends, using bibliometric analysis. Our findings revealed a rise in studies and enhanced collaboration across disciplines, with studies from the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom showing high academic output, intellectual impact, and strong scientific partnerships. However, there is a noticeable Western-centrism in the research. Identifying current trends and key areas of focus offers valuable insights for future practices in child and adolescent mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessReview

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) and Early Childhood Intervention: Intentional Integration

by Neal M. Horen, Julia Sayles, Kelli McDermott, Kirsten Sippel-Klug, Jennifer Drake-Croft and Toby Long

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(7), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21070870 - 3 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3490

Abstract

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) is a multidisciplinary field of inquiry, practice, and policy concerned with enhancing the social-emotional competence of infants and young children. Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a system of services that supports infants and toddlers with disabilities [...] Read more.

Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) is a multidisciplinary field of inquiry, practice, and policy concerned with enhancing the social-emotional competence of infants and young children. Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) is a system of services that supports infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. ECI providers promote a child’s development in all domains, including social-emotional. The purpose of this paper is to describe how two systems, Early Childhood Intervention and Infant Early Childhood Mental Health, collaborate when serving children who have developmental delays or disabilities and their families and other caregivers. We will discuss two models used to promote social-emotional development, the Pyramid Model and IECMH Consultation, and provide three examples that demonstrate how ECI and IECMH intersect at both the family, classroom, and system levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

10 pages, 642 KiB

Open AccessCommentary

COVID-19 Policy Response Analysis: A Canadian Perspective

by Andrew Klein and Mehmet A. Begen

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(6), 787; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060787 - 17 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1568

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges that go into effective policymaking. Facing a public health crisis of epic proportion, government bodies across the world sought to manage the spread of infectious disease and healthcare-system overwhelm in the face of historic economic instability and [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the challenges that go into effective policymaking. Facing a public health crisis of epic proportion, government bodies across the world sought to manage the spread of infectious disease and healthcare-system overwhelm in the face of historic economic instability and social unrest. Recognizing that COVID-19 debates and research are still actively ongoing, this paper aims to objectively compare COVID-19 responses from countries across the world that exhibit similar economic and political models to Canada, identify notable failures, successes, and key takeaways to inform future-state pandemic preparedness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 3340 KiB

Open AccessProtocol

Protocol for Evaluating Remote Patient Blood Pressure Monitoring Adapted to Black Women and Birthing Persons

by Loral Patchen, Asli McCullers, Serenity G. Budd, H. Joseph Blumenthal and W. Douglas Evans

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2024, 21(5), 603; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21050603 - 8 May 2024

Viewed by 1892

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of maternal death among Black women in the United States. A large, urban hospital adopted remote patient blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) to increase blood pressure monitoring and improve the management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) by [...] Read more.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of maternal death among Black women in the United States. A large, urban hospital adopted remote patient blood pressure monitoring (RBPM) to increase blood pressure monitoring and improve the management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) by reducing the time to diagnosis of HDP. The digital platform integrates with the electronic health record (EHR), automatically inputting RBPM readings to the patients’ chart; communicating elevated blood pressure values to the healthcare team; and offers a partial offset of the cost through insurance plans. It also allows for customization of the blood pressure values that prompt follow-up to the patient’s risk category. This paper describes a protocol for evaluating its impact. Objective 1 is to measure the effect of the digitally supported RBPM on the time to diagnosis of HDP. Objective 2 is to test the effect of cultural tailoring to Black participants. The ability to tailor digital content provides the opportunity to test the added value of promoting social identification with the intervention, which may help achieve equity in severe maternal morbidity events related to HDP. Evaluation of this intervention will contribute to the growing literature on digital health interventions to improve maternity care in the United States. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

The 20th Anniversary of IJERPH

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (15 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI