Public health challenges最新文献

{"title":"Lived Experiences of Deathcare Workers in Managing Infectious Dead Bodies.","authors":"Nkosi Nkosi Botha, Cynthia Esinam Segbedzi, Victor Kwasi Dumahasi, Ruby Victoria Kodom, Mary Aku Ogum, Samuel Maneen, Ivy Selorm Tsedze, Lucy Adjanor Akoto, Edward Wilson Ansah","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70205","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1002/puh2.70205","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Deathcare workers in resource-limited countries are chronically exposed to infectious diseases, mainly due to a lack of effective safety controls, inadequate resources, poor training and laxity on the part of industry managers. However, there is limited evidence from these countries, and very little is known about how deathcare workers manage infectious dead bodies. The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of deathcare workers involved in the management of infectious dead bodies in Ghana.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Using purposive sampling, data were collected from 32 deathcare workers using 11-item semi-structured in-person interview guide. An observation checklist was also used to gather additional data on on-site safety practices. Thematic analysis was conducted using the realistic phenomenological approach.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>We found that there were no clearly defined safety control systems (engineering, administrative and personal protective equipment supply and use) in place to protect workers against infectious diseases. For example, there were no separate storage facilities for infectious dead bodies. The workers were also exposed to various types of psychosocial hazards, such as heavy workload and dirty and disorganised work environments, which could affect their self-esteem, life satisfaction and coping skills. Additionally, these workers reported feeling humiliated, receiving poor remuneration and lacking opportunity for career progression.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>The deathcare workers in Ghana were not adequately prepared to handle infectious dead bodies, which put them at risk for infection and increased the psychosocial hazards at work. These workers may resort to unhealthy coping strategies, which require urgent attention. Future research should use qualitative approaches to investigate the working relationships between deathcare workers and their managers.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"5 1","pages":"e70205"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-02-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12947765/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147328372","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Rotating Shift Work and Burnout Among Nurses in Hebron Hospitals, West Bank, Palestine: A Cross-Sectional Study.","authors":"Yousef Jaradat, Mohammed Qtait, Nesreen Alqaissi, Dana Abo Omer, Asal Atawneh, Areen Abu Sharkh, Mohammed Baradia, Hamza A Drabee","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70172","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70172","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study examines the relationship between rotating shift work and burnout among nurses in Hebron hospitals within the context of Palestine's unique political and social conditions. A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January to March 2025 among registered nurses using a structured questionnaire that captured socio-demographic and workplace characteristics. Burnout was assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI). The findings revealed that nurses working rotating shifts reported significantly higher levels of burnout, with female nurses experiencing greater emotional exhaustion and reduced personal accomplishment (PA). Unmarried nurses and those without children demonstrated elevated depersonalization (DP), low PA, and overall burnout. The highest burnout levels were observed at Hebron Alia Governmental Hospital. Additionally, nurses with less than 7 years of experience exhibited significantly higher DP and lower PA. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions, including optimizing staffing, providing mental health support, and fostering a supportive work environment. Given the cross-sectional nature and reliance on self-reported data, the findings should be interpreted with caution. Further research is recommended to explore the long-term effects of shift work on patient care quality.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70172"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-26","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12742017/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145851338","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Charters in Patient-Engaged Research: A Scoping Review of Current Evidence.","authors":"Jenny Martínez, Catherine Verrier Piersol, Richard W Hass, Felicia Chew, Amy Cunningham, Sharon Larson","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70179","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70179","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aims: </strong>Research study charters facilitate shared governance and power sharing with research partners when developed collaboratively and early on in a study. Study charters are negotiated and developed on a study-by-study basis, offering insight into study-specific dynamics between research partners and investigators, as well as the factors that each identify as important for their collaboration. This review aimed to map and synthesize existing evidence on the development, structure, and implementation of research study charters used in patient-engaged research.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>We searched peer-reviewed literature published worldwide in English between January 2019 and January 2025.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Our final sample consisted of 17 citations, including 5 journal articles and 12 charters available on Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute's (PCORI's) Engagement Tool and Resource Repository. Research study charters varied in their development, structure, and content.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>We identified research study charters that varied in quality, detail, and methods. Valid, systematic, and inclusive study charters that are developed with research partners and reflect a diversity of perspectives can improve governance and engagement in research partnerships. Their adoption may enhance the quality and inclusivity of patient-centered research and represent an important area for future investigation.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70179"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-22","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12721919/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145822317","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Family Planning Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Male and Female Garment Factory Workers in Alexandria, Egypt.","authors":"Noha El Khorazaty, Nahla Abdel-Tawab","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70174","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70174","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Most evidence on factory workers' family planning (FP) needs has primarily focused on female workers. This study examines knowledge, attitudes, and practices of male and female garment factory workers in Alexandria, Egypt, and identifies factors associated with the use of modern contraception among these two groups. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with married male and female workers (406 and 393, respectively) in 14 factories whose owners agreed to participate in the study, whereas the sample of workers was composed of those whose supervisors approved of their participation in the interview. Bivariate analysis was used to measure differences in FP knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. Factors associated with workers' (or their spouse's) use of modern contraceptives were uncovered through separate logistic regression models. Although female workers could list more modern contraceptives than their male counterparts, female workers expressed more concerns and misconceptions about FP. The reported use of modern contraceptives was higher among male workers (or their spouses) than female workers. Factors predictive of modern contraceptive use among men were the number of children, the respondent's age, more positive attitudes, and knowledge of more FP methods, whereas among women, the only significant factor was having more children. The study highlights the need for gender-responsive interventions to address the distinctive FP needs of male and female factory workers, on-site provision of FP information and services in factory settings, and broader interventions to address inequitable gender norms.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70174"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12712540/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145806705","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A Qualitative Exploration of the Lived Experience of Menopause Among Black Women in the United Kingdom.","authors":"Rachael A Charles, Tongai F Chichaya","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70168","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70168","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Introduction: </strong>Despite increased research on menopause in the United Kingdom, there is a scarcity of research published on the experiences of Black women going through menopause. Studies suggest that culture, race and ethnicity influence how menopause is experienced. Evidence shows that Black women face racial health inequalities in the United Kingdom. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the menopause experiences of Black women in the United Kingdom.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>The interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) study design was used to explore Black women's lived experience of menopause in the United Kingdom. Purposive sampling was then used to select the five participants who were included in this study. In-depth interviews were used for data collection and IPA was used for data analysis.</p><p><strong>Findings: </strong>Three main themes emerged from the study following data analysis. The themes are unprepared, coming to terms, and acceptance and cultural shift. The findings show that participants had less knowledge about menopause before they started experiencing the symptoms. Strategies used to cope with menopause include humour, dietary and lifestyle changes. A cultural shift towards viewing menopause as a transformative phase at mid-life which should not to be stigmatised as a taboo subject was identified.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Menopause is a challenging experience for Black women in the United Kingdom in many ways. These preliminary findings suggest the potential value of tailored approaches to symptom management.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70168"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12707175/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145776503","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of Knowledge and Attitudes of Undergraduate Students on Trichomoniasis in Ghana.","authors":"Christopher Yaw Dumevi, Ezekiel Kofi Vicar, Lorie Christla Quansah, Rhoda Oklu, Smith Joshua, Joyce Junior Asiamah, James-Paul Kretchy, George Boateng Kyei, Patience B Tetteh-Quarcoo, Nicholas T K D Dayie, Irene Ayi, Patrick F Ayeh-Kumi","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70170","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70170","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Trichomoniasis is a non-viral neglected sexually transmitted disease of public health importance. Undergraduate students, often experiencing newfound freedom from family oversight, may engage in risky sexual behaviors, predisposing them to trichomoniasis and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards trichomoniasis and associated factors among the Central University students in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An institutional cross-sectional study was conducted between March and July 2024, involving 387 undergraduate students from Central University who were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured researcher-led interview with respondents in the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery, Pharmacy, and Medical Sciences. The study used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression (STATA MP Version 16) to identify factors linked to trichomoniasis, calculating odds ratios (95% confidence intervals [CI]) to measure associations. Multivariable analysis considered variables with a <i>p</i> value <0.05 to be statistically significant factors associated with knowledge and attitudes regarding <i>Trichomonas vaginalis</i> infection.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The study included 387 participants (81.40% female, 18.60% male; mean age 20). About 171 (44.19%), 150 (38.76%), and 66 (17.05%) were pharmacy, nursing, and physician assistantship studies students, respectively. Significant associations with <i>T. vaginalis</i> infection were observed for gender (<i>p</i> = 0.0169), age (<i>p</i> < 0.0001), attitude (<i>p</i> < 0.0001), and knowledge (68.0% good knowledge; 82.89% good attitude). Females exhibited twice the likelihood of higher knowledge (aOR = 2.022, 95%CI = 1.128-2.912, <i>p</i> = 0.012) compared to males.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The study revealed a good level of knowledge, positive attitudes, and effective preventive practices regarding trichomoniasis among the students. Gender, age, program of study, knowledge, and attitudes were significantly associated with self-reported risk behaviors. The study recommends targeted reproductive health education, particularly on trichomoniasis and STIs, to enhance safer sexual behaviors among tertiary students.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70170"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12707298/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145776466","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Afghanistan's Silent Epidemic: The Overuse of Antibiotics Is Fueling a Public Health Crisis.","authors":"Mohammad Masudi, Ali Rahimi, Nasar Ahmad Shayan","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70178","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70178","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70178"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12696389/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145758588","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Strengthening Critical Health Infrastructure-One Road to Climate Resilience.","authors":"Ana Raquel Nunes","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70177","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70177","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Objectives: </strong>This short communication examines structural and systemic vulnerabilities in healthcare infrastructure in the context of climate-related hazards and considers strategies for strengthening health infrastructure resilience, contributing to the long-term sustainability of public health systems.</p><p><strong>Study design: </strong>A descriptive analytical approach.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Insights are drawn from (1) literature on climate resilience in healthcare infrastructure and (2) international frameworks addressing climate change adaptation in health systems until February 2025.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Healthcare infrastructure is increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, energy disruptions and cascading failures. Current infrastructure planning is often fragmented and reactive, prioritises short-term concerns, lacking alignment with long-term resilience goals. Areas that can support resilience include climate-adaptive healthcare designs, sustainable energy integration, cross-sectoral collaborations and enhanced policy frameworks. Several actions that can contribute to strengthening resilience, including potential strategies for implementation, are outlined. Coordinated efforts across health, urban planning and environmental sectors will be essential.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>As climate-related hazards intensify, strengthening healthcare system resilience will require proactive planning, integrated policies and sustainable infrastructure investments. Without further action, the capacity of healthcare facilities to provide essential services during disasters could be significantly compromised.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70177"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-12-11","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12698939/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145758595","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Exploring Gaps in Maternal WASH Practices: A Cross-Sectional KAP Study in Rural Coastal Bangladesh.","authors":"Prantu Sen, Mohammad Asadul Habib, Tanjina Rahman, Akibul Islam Chowdhury, Kazi Muhammad Rezaul Karim","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70171","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70171","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Aims: </strong>This study explored the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) related to water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) and food safety among mothers in Noakhali, a coastal district of Bangladesh.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A cross-sectional study involving 325 mothers was conducted in the Noakhali district of Bangladesh using purposive sampling. A standard pretested questionnaire was used to assess KAPs regarding WASH practices.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Research findings indicated that although most participants had optimal knowledge, only a smaller percentage displayed positive attitudes and proper hygiene practices. Mothers with higher education and better economic standing were significantly more likely to exhibit favorable WASH behaviors, underscoring the critical role of education and economic empowerment. Importantly, mothers with good knowledge were nearly 10 times (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 9.621, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 4.23-21.88) more likely to practice safe hygiene, revealing the transformative potential of informed communities.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>This study calls for culturally appropriate, community-driven interventions that honor the strength and resilience of rural Bangladeshi women. Promoting education, improving infrastructure, and expanding awareness through schools, media, and grassroots initiatives can pave the way for healthier, more dignified lives. Empowering mothers with knowledge and tools such as educational resources, training programs, and healthcare services is not only a public health necessity but also an investment in the future of rural Bangladesh.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70171"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12664651/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145649753","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Efficacy of Local Oxygen Therapy Combined With Human Albumin for Stage 2 Pressure Ulcers: A Case Report.","authors":"Fengrong Tang","doi":"10.1002/puh2.70173","DOIUrl":"10.1002/puh2.70173","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This study summarizes the nursing management of a patient with cerebral infarction and sacrococcygeal Stage 2 pressure ulcer, focusing on the effectiveness of local oxygen therapy combined with human albumin. Patients are evaluated for the risk of pressure ulcers and nutritional deficiencies upon admission. We applied topical oxygen therapy combined with human albumin for dressing changes, during which the healing of pressure ulcers is assessed promptly. The pressure ulcer completely healed within 1 week, The new method of pressure ulcer care, which combines local oxygen therapy with human blood albumin, has been shown to shorten wound healing time, enhance nursing effectiveness, and provide a more efficient and feasible nursing technology for the clinical promotion of pressure ulcer management.</p>","PeriodicalId":74613,"journal":{"name":"Public health challenges","volume":"4 4","pages":"e70173"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC12659247/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145650380","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}