ORCID Profile
0000-0003-1665-7966
Current Organisations
La Trobe University
,
Austin Health
,
Deakin University
,
Federation University Australia
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Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 08-01-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYT.2020.603875
Abstract: Background: COVID-19 prevention and mitigation efforts were abrupt and challenging for most countries with the protracted lockdown straining socioeconomic activities. Marginalized groups and in iduals are particularly vulnerable to adverse effects of the pandemic such as human rights abuses and violations which can lead to psychological distress. In this review, we focus on mental distress and disturbances that have emanated due to human rights restrictions and violations amidst the pandemic. We underscore how mental health is both directly impacted by the force of pandemic and by prevention and mitigation structures put in place to combat the disease. Methods: We conducted a review of relevant studies examining human rights violations in COVID-19 response, with a focus on vulnerable populations, and its association with mental health and psychological well-being. We searched PubMed and Embase databases for studies between December 2019 to July 2020. Three reviewers evaluated the eligibility criteria and extracted data. Results: Twenty-four studies were included in the systematic inquiry reporting on distress due to human rights violations. Unanimously, the studies found vulnerable populations to be at a high risk for mental distress. Limited mobility rights disproportionately harmed psychiatric patients, low-income in iduals, and minorities who were at higher risk for self-harm and worsening mental health. Healthcare workers suffered negative mental health consequences due to stigma and lack of personal protective equipment and stigma. Other vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and refugees also experienced negative consequences. Conclusions: This review emphasizes the need to uphold human rights and address long term mental health needs of populations that have suffered disproportionately during the pandemic. Countries can embed a proactive psychosocial response to medical management as well as in existing prevention strategies. International human rights guidelines are useful in this direction but an emphasis should be placed on strengthening rights informed psychosocial response with specific strategies to enhance mental health in the long-term. We underscore that various fundamental human rights are interdependent and therefore undermining one leads to a poor impact on the others. We strongly recommend global efforts toward focusing both on minimizing fatalities, protecting human rights, and promoting long term mental well-being.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-02-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJ.L94
Abstract: To use the estimates from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2016 to describe patterns of suicide mortality globally, regionally, and for 195 countries and territories by age, sex, and Socio-demographic index, and to describe temporal trends between 1990 and 2016. Systematic analysis. Crude and age standardised rates from suicide mortality and years of life lost were compared across regions and countries, and by age, sex, and Socio-demographic index (a composite measure of fertility, income, and education). The total number of deaths from suicide increased by 6.7% (95% uncertainty interval 0.4% to 15.6%) globally over the 27 year study period to 817 000 (762 000 to 884 000) deaths in 2016. However, the age standardised mortality rate for suicide decreased by 32.7% (27.2% to 36.6%) worldwide between 1990 and 2016, similar to the decline in the global age standardised mortality rate of 30.6%. Suicide was the leading cause of age standardised years of life lost in the Global Burden of Disease region of high income Asia Pacific and was among the top 10 leading causes in eastern Europe, central Europe, western Europe, central Asia, Australasia, southern Latin America, and high income North America. Rates for men were higher than for women across regions, countries, and age groups, except for the 15 to 19 age group. There was variation in the female to male ratio, with higher ratios at lower levels of Socio-demographic index. Women experienced greater decreases in mortality rates (49.0%, 95% uncertainty interval 42.6% to 54.6%) than men (23.8%, 15.6% to 32.7%). Age standardised mortality rates for suicide have greatly reduced since 1990, but suicide remains an important contributor to mortality worldwide. Suicide mortality was variable across locations, between sexes, and between age groups. Suicide prevention strategies can be targeted towards vulnerable populations if they are informed by variations in mortality rates.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 25-04-2022
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYT.2022.860683
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed enormous psychological discomfort and fear across the globe, including Germany. To assess the levels of COVID-19 associated psychological distress and fear amongst Southern German population, and to identify their coping strategies. A cross-sectional survey using an online questionnaire was conducted in healthcare and community settings in the region of Ulm, Southern Germany. Assessment inventories were the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS), and the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), which were valid and reliable tools. A total of 474 In iduals participated in the study. The mean age was 33.6 years, and 327 (69%) were females. Most participants ( n = 381, 80.4%) had high levels of psychological distress, whereas only 5.1% had high levels of fear, and two-thirds of participants showed higher levels of coping. Moderate to very high levels of psychological distress were associated with being female, living alone, distress due to employment changes, experiencing financial impact, having multiple co-morbidities, being a smoker, increased alcohol use over the previous 6 months, contact with COVID-19 cases and healthcare providers for COVID-19-related stress. In iduals who were ≥60 years, lived with non-family members, had co-morbidities and visited a healthcare provider had higher levels of fear. Higher levels of education and income showed better coping amongst participants. Psychological distress was very high during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany and associated with low levels of coping. This study identified vulnerable groups of people, who should be given priorities for addressing their health and wellbeing in future crisis periods.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2017
Publisher: AMPCo
Date: 11-2017
DOI: 10.5694/MJA17.00780
Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1071/AH13064
Abstract: Objectives To describe the burden of bone and joint problems (BJP) in a defined regional population, and to identify characteristics and service-usage patterns. Methods In 2010, a health census of adults aged ≥15 years was conducted in Port Lincoln, South Australia. A follow-up computer-assisted telephone interview provided more specific information about those with BJP. Results Overall, 3350 people (42%) reported current BJP. General practitioners (GP) were the most commonly used provider (85%). People with BJP were also 85% more likely to visit chiropractors, twice as likely to visit physiotherapists and 34% more likely to visit Accident and Emergency or GP out of hours (compared with the rest of the population). Among the phenotypes, those with BJP with co-morbidities were more likely to visit GP, had a significantly higher mean pain score and higher levels of depression or anxiety compared with those with BJP only. Those with BJP only were more likely to visit physiotherapists. Conclusions GP were significant providers for those with co-morbidities, the group who also reported higher levels of pain and mental distress. GP have a central role in effectively managing this phenotype within the BJP population including linking allied health professionals with general practice to manage BJP more efficiently. What is known about the topic? As a highly prevalent group of conditions that are likely to impact on health-related quality of life and are a common cause of severe long-term disability, musculoskeletal conditions place a significant burden on in iduals and the health system. However, far less is known about access and usage of musculoskeletal-related health services and programs in Australia. What does this paper add? As a result of analysing the characteristics of the overall BJP population, as well as phenotypes within it, a greater understanding of patterns of health service interactions, care pathways and opportunities for targeted improvements in delivery of care may be identified. The results emphasise that participants with BJP utilised the services of a narrow range of providers, which may have workforce implications for these sectors. The funding models for physiotherapists and chiropractors in Australia involve a mix of private and fees for service, which limits access to those who have private health insurance or can pay directly for these services. What are the implications for practitioners? These analyses indicate the importance of linking allied health professionals with general practice to manage BJP more efficiently. Alternative and appropriate care pathways need to be more strongly developed and identified for effective management of these conditions rather than relying on a traditional range of practitioners. Alternatively, greater ease of access to allied health practitioners may enable more effective treatment and improved quality of life for those with BJP. There is an urgent need to develop an effective population-based model of integrated care for BJP within regional Australia.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 30-03-2015
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.1071/AH13211
Abstract: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) contributes to the disparity in life expectancy between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. Improving hospital care for Aboriginal patients has been identified as a means of addressing this disparity. This project developed and implemented a working together model of care, comprising an Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer and a specialist cardiac nurse, providing care coordination specifically directed at improving attendance at cardiac rehabilitation services for Aboriginal Australians in a large metropolitan hospital in Melbourne. A quality improvement framework using a retrospective case notes audit evaluated Aboriginal patients’ admissions to hospital and identified low attendance rates at cardiac rehabilitation services. A working together model of care coordination by an Aboriginal Hospital Liaison Officer and a specialist cardiac nurse was implemented to improve cardiac rehabilitation attendance in Aboriginal patients admitted with ACS to the cardiac wards of the hospital. A retrospective medical records audit showed that there were 68 Aboriginal patients admitted to the cardiac wards with ACS from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2011. A referral to cardiac rehabilitation was recorded for 42% of these. During the implementation of the model of care, 13 of 15 patients (86%) received a referral to cardiac rehabilitation and eight of the 13 (62%) attended. Implementation of the working together model demonstrated improved referral to and attendance at cardiac rehabilitation services, thereby, has potential to prevent complications and mortality. What is known about the topic? Aboriginal Australians experience disparities in access to recommended care for acute coronary syndrome. This may contribute to the life expectancy gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians. What does this paper add? This paper describes a model of care involving an Aboriginal Hospital Liaisons Officer and a specialist cardiac nurse working together to improve hospital care and attendance at cardiac rehabilitation services for Aboriginal Australians with acute coronary syndrome. What are the implications for practitioners? The working together model of care could be implemented across mainstream health services where Aboriginal people attend for specialist care.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-042860
Abstract: Smokeless tobacco (ST) was consumed by 356 million people globally in 2017. Recent evidence shows that ST consumption is responsible for an estimated 652 494 all-cause deaths across the globe annually. The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) was negotiated in 2003 and ratified in 2005 to implement effective tobacco control measures. While the policy measures enacted through various tobacco control laws have been effective in reducing the incidence and prevalence of smoking, the impact of ST-related policies (within WHO FCTC and beyond) on ST use is under-researched and not collated. A systematic review will be conducted to collate all available ST-related policies implemented across various countries and assess their impact on ST use. The following databases will be searched: Medline, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus, EconLit, ISI Web of Science, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), African Index Medicus, LILACS, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Index Medicus for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Index Medicus for South-East Asia Region, Western Pacific Region Index Medicus and WHO Library Database, as well as Google search engine and country-specific government websites. All ST-related policy documents (FCTC and non-FCTC) will be included. Results will be limited to literature published since 2005 in English and regional languages (Bengali, Hindi and Urdu). Two reviewers will independently employ two-stage screening to determine inclusion. The Effective Public Health Practice Project’s ‘Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies’ will be used to record ratings of quality and risk of bias among studies selected for inclusion. Data will be extracted using a standardised form. Meta-analysis and narrative synthesis will be used. Permission for ethics exemption of the review was obtained from the Centre for Chronic Disease Control’s Institutional Ethics Committee, India (CCDC_IEC_06_2020 dated 16 April 2020). The results will be disseminated through publications in a peer-reviewed journal and will be presented in national and international conferences. CRD42020191946.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 2017
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-03-2020
Abstract: Rural Australians experience a range of health inequities—including higher rates of suicide—when compared to the general population. This retrospective cohort study compares demographic characteristics and suicide death circumstances of farming- and non-farming-related suicides in rural Victoria with the aim of: (a) exploring the contributing factors to farming-related suicide in Australia’s largest agricultural producing state and (b) examining whether farming-related suicides differ from suicide in rural communities. Farming-related suicide deaths were more likely to: (a) be employed at the time of death (52.6% vs. 37.7%, OR = 1.84, 95% CIs 1.28–2.64) and, (b) have died through use of a firearm (30.1% vs. 8.7%, OR = 4.51, 95% CIs 2.97–6.92). However, farming-related suicides were less likely to (a) have a diagnosed mental illness (36.1% vs. 46.1%, OR=0.66, 95% CIs 0.46–0.96) and, (b) have received mental health support more than six weeks prior to death (39.8% vs. 50.0%, OR = 0.66, 95% CIs 0.46–0.95). A range of suicide prevention strategies need adopting across all segments of the rural population irrespective of farming status. However, data from farming-related suicides highlight the need for targeted firearm-related suicide prevention measures and appropriate, tailored and accessible support services to support health, well-being and safety for members of farming communities.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.PUHE.2008.05.015
Abstract: To determine the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) associated with various types of tobacco consumption among young patients aged 20-49 years attending a tertiary care cardiac hospital in Bangladesh. Case-control study. The study was undertaken at the National Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases (NICVD), Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study population comprised 69 cases with CHD and 138 controls without CHD from the emergency department of NICVD. Quantitative interviews were performed. Most of the cases (79.7%) were either current or past consumers of some form of tobacco, compared with less than half of the controls (46.4%). The increased risk of CHD was approximately four fold in ever smokers [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 4.0, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.7-9.5] and cases who had ever used smokeless tobacco (adjusted OR 4.0, 95% CI 2.0-8.1). Smokeless tobacco consumption was strongly associated with CHD after adjustment for smoking and other confounders. This study found evidence for an association between various types of tobacco consumption and CHD, particularly for bidi smoking and different types of smokeless tobacco consumption. Policies should be made and implemented to combat bidi smoking and smokeless tobacco consumption, as well as cigarette smoking.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-05-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12889-020-08920-1
Abstract: Assessing public opinion towards tobacco policies is important, particularly when determining the possible direction of future public health policies. The aim of this study was to describe the implementation of tobacco retailer licensing systems by state and territory governments in Australia, and to use the National Drug Strategy Household Survey (NDSHS) to assess levels of public support for a retailer licensing system in each jurisdiction over time and by a range of socio-demographic and behavioural attributes. National and state/territory estimates of public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system were derived as proportions using NDSHS data from 2004 to 2016. The effect of one’s jurisdiction of residence on the likelihood of supporting such an initiative in 2016 was assessed using logistic regression while controlling for various socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics. Public support for a tobacco retailer licensing system ranged from a high of 67.2% (95% CI 66.5–67.9%) nationally in 2007 and declined to 59.5% (95% CI 58.9–60.2%) in 2016. In 2016, support was greatest amongst those from Tasmania, those aged 50 years and older, females, those from the least disadvantaged areas, those living in major cities, never-smokers and never-drinkers. After adjusting for the socio-demographic and behavioural attributes of respondents, those from Queensland were significantly less likely to support a licensing system (adjusted OR = 0.85, 95% CI 0.77–0.94) compared to those from other jurisdictions, while those from Tasmania were significantly more likely to support a licensing system compared to those from other jurisdictions (adjusted OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.09–1.52). A clear majority of the public support a tobacco retailer licensing system, regardless of whether or not such a system is already in place in their jurisdiction of residence. Tobacco control initiatives other than a retailer licensing system may explain some of the residual variations in support observed between jurisdictions.
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 03-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-11-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HSR2.141
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 24-08-2020
DOI: 10.1136/INJURYPREV-2019-043531
Abstract: While there is a long history of measuring death and disability from injuries, modern research methods must account for the wide spectrum of disability that can occur in an injury, and must provide estimates with sufficient demographic, geographical and temporal detail to be useful for policy makers. The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 study used methods to provide highly detailed estimates of global injury burden that meet these criteria. In this study, we report and discuss the methods used in GBD 2017 for injury morbidity and mortality burden estimation. In summary, these methods included estimating cause-specific mortality for every cause of injury, and then estimating incidence for every cause of injury. Non-fatal disability for each cause is then calculated based on the probabilities of suffering from different types of bodily injury experienced. GBD 2017 produced morbidity and mortality estimates for 38 causes of injury. Estimates were produced in terms of incidence, prevalence, years lived with disability, cause-specific mortality, years of life lost and disability-adjusted life-years for a 28-year period for 22 age groups, 195 countries and both sexes. GBD 2017 demonstrated a complex and sophisticated series of analytical steps using the largest known database of morbidity and mortality data on injuries. GBD 2017 results should be used to help inform injury prevention policy making and resource allocation. We also identify important avenues for improving injury burden estimation in the future.
Publisher: Academic Journals
Date: 21-12-2011
DOI: 10.5897/JPHE11.175
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-2021
DOI: 10.1038/S41591-021-01498-0
Abstract: Anemia is a globally widespread condition in women and is associated with reduced economic productivity and increased mortality worldwide. Here we map annual 2000–2018 geospatial estimates of anemia prevalence in women of reproductive age (15–49 years) across 82 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), stratify anemia by severity and aggregate results to policy-relevant administrative and national levels. Additionally, we provide subnational disparity analyses to provide a comprehensive overview of anemia prevalence inequalities within these countries and predict progress toward the World Health Organization’s Global Nutrition Target (WHO GNT) to reduce anemia by half by 2030. Our results demonstrate widespread moderate improvements in overall anemia prevalence but identify only three LMICs with a high probability of achieving the WHO GNT by 2030 at a national scale, and no LMIC is expected to achieve the target in all their subnational administrative units. Our maps show where large within-country disparities occur, as well as areas likely to fall short of the WHO GNT, offering precision public health tools so that adequate resource allocation and subsequent interventions can be targeted to the most vulnerable populations.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 24-04-2020
DOI: 10.1136/INJURYPREV-2019-043494
Abstract: Past research in population health trends has shown that injuries form a substantial burden of population health loss. Regular updates to injury burden assessments are critical. We report Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 Study estimates on morbidity and mortality for all injuries. We reviewed results for injuries from the GBD 2017 study. GBD 2017 measured injury-specific mortality and years of life lost (YLLs) using the Cause of Death Ensemble model. To measure non-fatal injuries, GBD 2017 modelled injury-specific incidence and converted this to prevalence and years lived with disability (YLDs). YLLs and YLDs were summed to calculate disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). In 1990, there were 4 260 493 (4 085 700 to 4 396 138) injury deaths, which increased to 4 484 722 (4 332 010 to 4 585 554) deaths in 2017, while age-standardised mortality decreased from 1079 (1073 to 1086) to 738 (730 to 745) per 100 000. In 1990, there were 354 064 302 (95% uncertainty interval: 338 174 876 to 371 610 802) new cases of injury globally, which increased to 520 710 288 (493 430 247 to 547 988 635) new cases in 2017. During this time, age-standardised incidence decreased non-significantly from 6824 (6534 to 7147) to 6763 (6412 to 7118) per 100 000. Between 1990 and 2017, age-standardised DALYs decreased from 4947 (4655 to 5233) per 100 000 to 3267 (3058 to 3505). Injuries are an important cause of health loss globally, though mortality has declined between 1990 and 2017. Future research in injury burden should focus on prevention in high-burden populations, improving data collection and ensuring access to medical care.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-07-2017
Abstract: Depression is common among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and has a major impact on their quality of life, morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to map the 12-month psychosocial outcomes of patients with CHD who were screened positive for depression in an acute cardiac ward. A prospective cohort study was conducted of the psychosocial trajectory (depression, anxiety, wellbeing, social support, mental health service access) of 212 patients with CHD who were screened for depression after being admitted to acute cardiac wards of a major metropolitan hospital. Outcomes were assessed before hospital discharge and at one, three, six and 12 months post-discharge. Linear mixed models identified that those patients screened at 'moderate to high' risk of depression at baseline had higher levels of depression ( F(1,173)=53.93, p<0.0001) and anxiety ( F(1,180)=67.01, p<0.001), and lower levels of wellbeing ( F(1,186)=42.47, p<0.001) and social support ( F(1,177)=25.40, p<0.0001), compared to those at 'no to low' risk of depression. Levels of depression and wellbeing remained fairly constant over the 12-month trajectory. Surgical and medical treatment groups were of similar psychological composition over the 12-month period. These findings attest to the effectiveness and predictive validity of a simple nurse-administered screening tool designed to identify depression in hospital patients with CHD and also indicate that a screening and referral tool alone is not sufficient to achieve optimal disease management. A collaborative care model involving family members and integrated pathways to primary care is recommended.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-09-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0257304
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has enormously affected the psychological well-being, social and working life of millions of people across the world. This study aimed to investigate the psychological distress, fear and coping strategies as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors among Malaysian residents. Participants were invited to an online cross-sectional survey from Aug-Sep 2020. The study assessed psychological distress using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, level of fear using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and coping strategies using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to adjust for potential confounders. The mean age (±SD) of the participants (N = 720) was 31.7 (±11.5) years, and most of them were females (67.1%). Half of the participants had an income source, while 216 (30%) identified themselves as frontline health or essential service workers. People whose financial situation was impacted due to COVID-19 (AOR 2.16, 95% CIs 1.54–3.03), people who drank alcohol in the last four weeks (3.43, 1.45–8.10), people who were a patient (2.02, 1.39–2.93), and had higher levels of fear of COVID-19 (2.55, 1.70–3.80) were more likely to have higher levels of psychological distress. Participants who self-isolated due to exposure to COVID-19 (3.12, 1.04–9.32) and who had moderate to very high levels of psychological distress (2.56, 1.71–3.83) had higher levels of fear. Participants who provided care to a family member atient with a suspected case of COVID-19 were more likely to be moderately to highly resilient compared to those who did not. Vulnerable groups of in iduals such as patients and those impacted financially during COVID-19 should be supported for their mental wellbeing. Behavioural interventions should be targeted to reduce the impact of alcohol drinking during such crisis period.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-04-2018
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 10-09-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0257301
Abstract: Timeliness in seeking care is critical for lung cancer patients’ survival and better prognosis. The care seeking trajectory of patients with lung cancer in Bangladesh has not been explored, despite the differences in health systems and structures compared to high income countries. This study investigated the symptoms triggering healthcare seeking, preferred healthcare providers (including informal healthcare providers such as pharmacy retailers, village doctors, and “traditional healers”), and the duration of intervals in the lung cancer care pathway of patients in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional study was conducted in three tertiary care hospitals in Bangladesh among diagnosed lung cancer patients through face-to-face interview and medical record review. Time intervals from onset of symptom and care seeking events were calculated and compared between those who sought initial care from different providers using Wilcoxon rank sum tests. Among 418 study participants, the majority (90%) of whom were males, with a mean age of 57 ±9.86 years, cough and chest pain were the most common (23%) combination of symptoms triggering healthcare seeking. About two-thirds of the total respondents (60%) went to informal healthcare providers as their first point of contact. Living in rural areas, lower levels of education and lower income were associated with seeking care from such providers. The median duration between onset of symptom to confirmation of diagnosis was 121 days, between confirmation of diagnosis and initiation of treatment was 22 days, and between onset of symptom and initiation of treatment was 151 days. Pre-diagnosis durations were longer for those who had sought initial care from an informal provider ( p .05). Time to first contact with a health provider was shorter in this study compared to other developed and developing countries but utilizing informal healthcare providers caused delays in diagnosis and initiation of treatment. Encouraging people to seek care from a formal healthcare provider may reduce the overall duration of the care seeking pathway.
Publisher: La Trobe
Date: 2021
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2011
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-11-2018
Abstract: For patients who smoke, electronic cigarettes may offer a pathway to achieve tobacco abstinence and reduce the risk of postoperative complications. Clinicians have a pivotal role in supporting smoking cessation by patients with lung cancer and coronary artery disease throughout the perioperative period of cardiothoracic surgery. However, the views of Australian cardiothoracic clinicians on electronic cigarettes and smoking cessation are unknown. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 52 cardiothoracic surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses and physiotherapists in six hospitals in Sydney and thematically analysed. Clinicians’ knowledge about electronic cigarettes and the regulatory environment surrounding them was limited. Clinicians believed that: electronic cigarettes, though unlikely to be safe, were safer than tobacco cigarettes electronic cigarettes may have a harm reduction role in public health and electronic cigarettes were a potential smoking cessation tool for the extraordinary circumstances of surgery. The professional role of a clinician and their views about electronic cigarettes as a perioperative smoking cessation aid had an influence on future clinician-patient interactions. Electronic cigarette use is increasing in Australia and clinicians are likely to receive more frequent questions about electronic cigarettes as a cessation aid. Stronger guidance for clinicians is needed on the topic of electronic cigarettes and cardiothoracic surgery.
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 12-09-2012
Abstract: Altered stem cell homeostasis is linked to organismal aging. However, the mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. Here we report novel alterations in hair follicle stem cells during skin aging, including increased numbers, decreased function, and an inability to tolerate stress. Performing high-throughput RNA sequencing on aging stem cells, cytokine arrays, and functional assays, we identify an age-associated imbalance in epidermal Jak–Stat signaling that inhibits stem cell function. Collectively, this study reveals a role for the aging epidermis in the disruption of cytokine and stem cell homeostasis, suggesting that stem cell decline during aging may be part of broader tumor-suppressive mechanisms.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2022
DOI: 10.2147/JMDH.S357867
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 03-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-02-2021
DOI: 10.1111/INM.12845
Publisher: BMJ Publishing Group Ltd
Date: 04-2018
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-2014
DOI: 10.2147/IJGM.S60932
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 17-08-2015
DOI: 10.1002/CCD.26117
Abstract: To determine the impact of gender and comorbidity on use of coronary interventions in patients diagnosed with high-risk non-ST-segment acute coronary syndrome (NSTEACS). Guidelines recommend the use of coronary angiography for all patients diagnosed with NSTEACS with high-risk features, except in the presence of severe comorbidities. However, little is understood about the relationship between gender, comorbidity, and the use of coronary interventions. Retrospective analyses of the Victorian Admitted Episodes Data Set (VAED) including all patients diagnosed with NSTEACS with high-risk features on their first admission for ACS between June 2007 and July 2009. Hierarchical logistic regression models and correspondence analyses were used to understand the relationship between gender, comorbidities, and the use of coronary interventions. Out of 16,771 NSTEACS patients with high-risk features, 6,338 (38%) were female. Females were older than males (aged ≥75: 62% vs 39%, p < 0.001) and more likely to have multiple comorbidities (≥2: 66% vs 59%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for potential confounders, females were more likely to receive no coronary intervention than males with a similar number of comorbid conditions (no comorbidities: OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.28-2.05 1 comorbidity: OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.44-1.93 2 comorbidities: OR 1.93, 95% CI 1.66-2.23 ≥3 comorbidities: OR 1.42, 95% CI 1.27-1.60). Lower rates of coronary intervention in females persisted after adjusting for number of comorbidities which suggests that gender may bias decisions regarding referral for coronary intervention in high-risk NSTEACS independent of other factors.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 12-02-2021
Abstract: The present study explored the changes in tobacco use patterns during the COVID-19 pandemic and their correlates among older adults in Bangladesh. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 1032 older adults aged ≥60 years in Bangladesh through telephone interviews in October 2020. Participants’ characteristics and COVID-19-related information were gathered using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Participants were asked if they noted any change in their tobacco use patterns (smoking or smokeless tobacco) during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic (6 months prior to the survey). Nearly half of the participants (45.6%) were current tobacco users, of whom 15.9% reported increased tobacco use during the COVID-19 pandemic and all others had no change in their tobacco use patterns. Tobacco use was significantly increased among the participants from rural areas, who had reduced communications during COVID-19 compared to pre-pandemic (OR = 2.76, 95%CI:1.51–5.03). Participants who were aged ≥70 years (OR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.14–0.77), widowed (OR = 0.36, 95% CI: 0.13–1.00), had pre-existing, non-communicable, and/or chronic conditions (OR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.25–0.78), and felt themselves at the highest risk of COVID-19 (OR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.15–0.62), had significantly lower odds of increased tobacco use. Policy makers and practitioners need to focus on strengthening awareness and raising initiatives to avoid tobacco use during such a crisis period.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2018
Publisher: Rural and Remote Health
Date: 06-01-2020
DOI: 10.22605/RRH4508
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 2022
DOI: 10.1017/GMH.2022.35
Abstract: Healthcare workers (HCWs) have been impacted psychologically due to their professional responsibilities over the prolonged era of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The study aimed to identify the predictors of psychological distress, fear, and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic among HCWs. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among self-identified HCWs across 14 countries (12 from Asia and two from Africa). The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale, the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and the Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess the psychological distress, fear, and coping of HCWs, respectively. A total of 2447 HCWs participated 36% were doctors, and 42% were nurses, with a mean age of 36 (±12) years, and 70% were females. Moderate to very-high psychological distress was prevalent in 67% of the HCWs the lowest rate was reported in the United Arab Emirates (1%) and the highest in Indonesia (16%). The prevalence of high levels of fear was 20% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (9%) and the highest in Egypt (32%). The prevalence of medium-to-high resilient coping was 63% the lowest rate was reported in Libya (28%) and the highest in Syria (76%). COVID-19 has augmented the psychological distress among HCWs. Factors identified in this study should be considered in managing the wellbeing of HCWs, who had been serving as the frontline drivers in managing the crisis successfully across all participating countries. Furthermore, interventions to address their psychological distress should be considered.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-2020
DOI: 10.1093/EURPUB/CKAA165.1361
Abstract: Smoking cessation is the best option a health professional can offer to the patients for averting the preventable causes of mortality and morbidity. To determine smoking behavior, preferred cessation methods, and attitudes towards smoking cessation amongst health professionals. The cross-sectional study, conducted in six countries, included doctors and nurses working at different hospital settings. Participants responded anonymously to an online questionnaire. Among 1109 participants, 36% were from Saudi Arabia, 14% from Nepal, 14% from Indonesia, 12% from Australia, 12% from Jordan, and 12% from Pakistan. Mean age was 33 years, 61% were females and 58% were nurses. One in eight (12%) was daily smoker. Among current smokers, 42% smoked 2-9 cigarettes/day, and 26% had their first cigarette within 5-30 minutes after waking up. Half of the smokers perceived it as 'very important' to quit smoking, 30% had tried to quit in the last six months, and 31% preferred to have a group quit program with the same health professionals. Only 17% had formal training on smoking cessation, but 57% were interested to receive one. Half of the participants said they (53%) 'always' asked patients if they smoked, but 89% said they advised to quit, 76% said they assessed intention to quit, 28% said they assisted by providing materials on cessation, and 33% said they arranged follow up for cessation. Compared to current smokers, never smokers were more likely to 'always' ask patients if they smoked (78% vs. 22%, p = 0.044, ORs 1.39, 95%CIs 1.01-1.91), assist smokers by setting quit dates (74% vs. 26%, p = 0.039, ORs 1.54, 95%CIs 1.03-2.29), arrange follow up (77% vs. 23%, p = 0.044, ORs 1.40, 95%CIs 1.01-1.94). Health professionals reported moderately good behavior around advice to smokers, but it is much worse among current smokers. Health professionals who smoke should be both encouraged to quit and to better support their patients to do so. Smoking cessation support for patients was not good among health professionals, who were smokers. Health professionals need to quit smoking in order to provide better cessation support for patients.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-056895
Abstract: Early diagnosis and reducing the time taken to achieve each step of lung cancer care is essential. This scoping review aimed to examine time points and intervals used to measure timeliness and to critically assess how they are defined by existing studies of the care seeking pathway for lung cancer. This scoping review was guided by the methodological framework for scoping reviews by Arksey and O’Malley. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO electronic databases were searched for articles published between 1999 and 2019. After duplicate removal, all publications went through title and abstract screening followed by full text review and inclusion of articles in the review against the selection criteria. A narrative synthesis describes the time points, intervals and measurement guidelines used by the included articles. A total of 2113 articles were identified from the initial search. Finally, 68 articles were included for data charting process. Eight time points and 14 intervals were identified as the most common events researched by the articles. Eighteen different lung cancer care guidelines were used to benchmark intervals in the included articles all were developed in Western countries. The British Thoracic Society guideline was the most frequently used guideline (20%). Western guidelines were used by the studies in Asian countries despite differences in the health system structure. This review identified substantial variations in definitions of some of the intervals used to describe timeliness of care for lung cancer. The differences in healthcare delivery systems of Asian and Western countries, and between high-income countries and low-income-middle-income countries may suggest different sets of time points and intervals need to be developed.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 31-05-2015
Abstract: Despite scientific evidence about the harmful effects of smokeless tobacco (SLT), it is widely used in Bangladesh. This study explored perceptions about health effects of SLT use. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 1812 nonsmoking adults. About 40% of the participants were current SLT users or had used SLT in the past. Family members’ influence was the main factor for initiation. The participants believed that people continued using SLT because of addiction (52%) and as a part of their lifestyle (23%). The majority of participants (77%) did not mention any benefit, but SLT users considered it to be a remedy for toothache ( P .05). Almost all participants mentioned that SLT was harmful and causes heart disease, cancer, and tuberculosis. Doctors’ advice was the common motivating factor to quit. Health promotion interventions should highlight the adverse effects of SLT use, which outweigh the perceived benefits, and should consider addressing the role of family in SLT initiation and use.
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 03-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-06-2016
DOI: 10.1038/JHH.2015.65
Abstract: Hypertension is mainly asymptomatic and remains undiagnosed until the disease progresses. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for hypertension in rural Bangladesh. Using a population-based cluster random s ling strategy, 3096 adults aged ⩾30 years were recruited from a rural district in Bangladesh. Data collected included two blood pressure (BP) measurements, fasting blood glucose, socio-demographic and anthropometric measurements. Hypertension was defined as systolic BP (SBP) ⩾140 mm Hg or diastolic BP (DBP) ⩾90 mm Hg or self-reported diagnosed hypertension. Logistic regression techniques were used for data analyses. The crude prevalence of hypertension was 40% (95% confidence interval (CI) 38-42%) of which 82% were previously undiagnosed. People from lower socio-economic status (SES) had a significantly higher percentage of undiagnosed hypertension compared with people with higher SES (P<0.001). There was no significant gender difference in severity of hypertension. Males with higher education level compared with no education had a higher prevalence of hypertension (odds ratio 2.34, 95% CI 1.49-3.69). Older age and waist circumference in both genders, and diabetes, lack of physical activity in females were found to be associated with higher prevalence of hypertension. Our research suggests the prevalence of undiagnosed hypertension was higher in the rural area in Bangladesh than that reported from the rural area in neighbouring India and China. Lower SES was associated with a higher risk of undiagnosed hypertension. Public health programs at the grass-roots level must emphasise the provision of primary care and preventive services in managing this non-communicable disease.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 27-01-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYT.2021.602614
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs) particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). This scoping review provides a summary of current evidence on the mental health consequences of COVID on HCWs. Methods: A scoping review was conducted searching PubMed and Embase for articles relevant to mental health conditions among HCWs during COVID-19. Relevant articles were screened and extracted to summarize key outcomes and findings. Results: A total of fifty-one studies were included in this review. Depressive symptoms, anxiety symptoms, psychological trauma, insomnia and sleep quality, workplace burnout and fatigue, and distress were the main outcomes reviewed. Most studies found a high number of symptoms endorsed for depression, anxiety, and other conditions. We found differences in symptoms by sex, age, and HCW role, with female, younger-aged, frontline workers, and non-physician workers being affected more than other subgroups. Conclusion: This review highlights the existing burden of mental health conditions reported by HCWs during COVID-19. It also demonstrates emerging disparities among affected HCW subgroups. This scoping review emphasizes the importance of generating high quality evidence and developing informed interventions for HCW mental health with a focus on LMICs.
Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Date: 08-2011
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 05-10-2015
DOI: 10.1093/NTR/NTV222
Abstract: Persistent smoking in patients diagnosed with coronary heart disease (CHD) has a significant effect on morbidity and mortality. Although there has been considerable debate around gender differences in smoking cessation, conclusive evidence on how gender impacts rates of smoking cessation and/or relapse following CHD diagnosis is lacking. Our aim was to test the hypothesis that female smokers with CHD were more likely to persist in smoking or relapse post-diagnosis or hospitalization than male smokers. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies published in the last 10 years. Meta-analyses were conducted using a random effects model. Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The aggregated s le size was 36 591, 20 617 (56%) were smokers of which 2564 (12%) were female. Meta-analyses of eight studies where smoking prevalence could be measured, showed that females were less likely to be smokers at baseline than males (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.13 to 0.70). Overall, one in two (47%) smokers persisted in smoking/relapsed following a diagnosis or hospitalization for CHD but there was no gender difference in the rate of persistent smoking/relapse (OR = 1.07, 95% CI = 0.95 to 1.21). Female smokers with CHD were relatively uncommon in the included study populations. However, the rate of persistent smoking/relapse was high in both female and male smokers following a diagnosis or hospitalization for CHD. Therefore similar, sustained smoking cessation efforts are warranted for both genders. There was no gender difference for persistent smoking/relapse following a diagnosis or hospitalization for CHD, but the rate was high in both female and male smokers. Therefore, similar, sustained smoking cessation efforts are warranted for both genders.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1111/JONM.13882
Abstract: This review aims to identify the factors influencing the transition and retention of mental health nurses during the initial years of practice, recognize gaps in the literature and propose evidence-based strategies. Mental health is a challenging specialty recruitment, transition and retention of mental health nurses are known issues of concern. The present study undertakes a scoping review to identify factors influencing the transition and retention of mental health nurses during the initial years of practice and the gaps in that research domain. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases. To gain an understanding of the topic of interest, the review of the literature extended from 2000 to 2022. Existing evidence focuses on specific perspectives of transition. There is limited literature on factors influencing transition and retention among mental health nurses. Findings suggested that personal and professional factors could influence the transition and retention of mental health nurses during the initial years of practice. The main themes identified were personal attributes and professional factors with a number of subthemes. The scoping review identified only a few studies, which showed personal and professional factors related to the transition and retention of mental health nurses at the early stages of their career. Potential benefits of effective transition and support with the understanding of factors influencing transition and retention of early career mental health nurses will enhance staff morale, sustainability of the workforce and better patient outcomes. Additionally, a few recommendations for nurse managers and leaders to improve transitional experiences and retention of early career nurses are highlighted.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 12-2019
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: Editorial CSIC
Date: 24-05-2021
Abstract: En la vega de Antequera (Málaga), en la provincia Baetica, se concentran algunos testimonios documentales que datan de los años de gobierno de Adriano, que se conservan todavía hoy, y que demuestran una intensa actividad de la administración romana, al mismo tiempo que la fidelidad de las ciudades de la comarca hacia la figura imperial. Estos testimonios corresponden a dos momentos diferentes en el período adrianeo, que son al mismo tiempo las fechas de mayor intensidad en la relación entre el Príncipe, su administración y los habitantes de las comunidades de la zona. Estos dos momentos son los años en torno a 122 d. C. y una década más tarde, hacia el año 132 d. C.
Publisher: Elsevier
Date: 2015
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-07-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41591-020-0972-7
Abstract: An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Publisher: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
Date: 20-06-2006
DOI: 10.1200/JCO.2006.24.18_SUPPL.15070
Abstract: 15070 Background: Docetaxel is an active agent in the treatment of recurrent advanced ovarian cancer. We conducted a multi-center phase II study to evaluate the response rate, toxicity and survival of docetaxel-cisplatin regimen as first-line treatment of advanced ovarian cancer in Bangladeshi population. Methods: Forty chemotherapy-naïve patients of advanced epithelial ovarian cancer were recruited between October 1999 to March 2002. Eligibility criteria included stage Ic-IV patients, age 18–75 years, an ECOG performance status of 0–3 with adequate hepatic, renal and bone marrow function. Docetaxel 60 mg/m 2 as 1 hour IV infusion and cisplatin 75 mg/m 2 were given on day 1 every 3 weeks for a maximum of 6 cycles (average 5 cycles). Tumor responses and toxicities were evaluated by relevant investigations and survival was documented. Results: A total of 40 patients were enrolled. Median age was 44 years (age range 18–75 years). All the patients were evaluable for response. Overall response was observed in 32 patients (80%) with complete response rate 38% (12 patients), partial response rate 62% (20 patients). Stable disease was seen in 5 patients (12.5%) and progressive disease was in 3 patients (7.5%).Two years survival was documented in 62% patients. Toxicities were limited with grade 3 neutropenia in 10 patients (25%) and some non-hematological toxicities (including nausea, vomiting and fluid retention) in twenty-six patients (65%). No severe febrile neutropenia and no events of death were observed. Conclusions: The combination of docetaxel and cisplatin appears to be effective with manageable toxicities in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer in Bangladeshi population. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2020
DOI: 10.1111/IMJ.14378
Abstract: Optimal management of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reduces patient morbidity and healthcare system burden. COPD guidelines, including the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) and the COPD-X Plan, provide evidence-based recommendations, but adherence in hospital practice is variable. To examine current practice in management of COPD exacerbations at an Australian teaching hospital and to compare with COPD-X Plan recommendations. Data were collected retrospectively from electronic medical records for admissions occurring during 1 May to 31 August 2016, and compared with recommendations from the COPD-X Plan. A total of 134 patients (n = 68 females) was admitted for a COPD exacerbation during the study period. Mean age was 75.4 ± 10.2 years and 33.6% were current smokers. Airflow obstruction on spirometry was confirmed in 67.2% (mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s was 53 ± 22% predicted (1.2 ± 0.5 L)). Excellent adherence to the COPD-X Plan was demonstrated in the ordering of chest radiographs (97%) and electrocardiograms (94%). Supplemental oxygen was appropriately provided to all patients with oxygen saturation of <88%. All patients with confirmed hypercapnic respiratory failure were managed with non-invasive ventilation. Corticosteroids and bronchodilators were prescribed for the majority of patients. Areas of suboptimal practice included inadequate usage of arterial blood gases, excess supplemental oxygen in the absence of hypoxaemia, over-prescription of intravenous antimicrobials, low referral rates to pulmonary rehabilitation and insufficient smoking cessation counselling. Level of adherence to guideline recommendations in the management of COPD exacerbations is inadequate and further strategies are required to elevate standards of practice.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJON.2018.06.001
Abstract: Human resilience refers to the processes of positive adaptation and development in the context of perceived significant threats to an in idual's life or function. This paper analyses the psychometric properties and performance of the English version 14-item Resilience Scale (RS) in an Australian outpatient s le of men (n = 209) with advanced prostate cancer receiving androgen deprivation therapy. A cross-sectional design was used to collect data from a purposive s le of men. The instrument's psychometric properties were rated against established criteria for reliability (internal consistency), construct validity (instrument dimensionality) and variability (floor and ceiling effect). Exploratory and confirmatory factor-analyses were performed. The English version 14-item RS demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's alpha = 0.91). A greater than 15% ceiling effect suggested limited data variability. Confirmatory factor analysis showed that items in the instrument measured primarily as a single factor with a good model of fit (RMSEA = 0.059 TLI = 0. 950, CFI = 0.962). The English version 14-item RS had satisfactory psychometric properties to capture the concept of resilience in an Australian outpatient s le of men with advanced prostate cancer, with some questions regarding detection of variability for ceiling effect. Further psychometric evaluation of the instrument in other adult clinical settings is recommended.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 03-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-04-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S13643-021-01655-Z
Abstract: Self-efficacy is developed through a person’s interaction with his/her physical and social environment. Self-efficacy in caring is an essential attribute of care workers to develop a positive attitude towards their clients, improve work performance, and enhance job satisfaction. Care workers’ self-efficacy may vary according to the context in which the care is being provided. Aged care is a multidimensional and challenging setting, and characteristics of aged care services are different from those of acute care services. The objective of this review is to give an overview of the self-efficacy of residential aged care workers in caring for older people and factors influencing their self-efficacy. The protocol for this review is based on the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer’s Manual for Scoping Review. A systematic search of the literature on electronic databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine, SCOPUS, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global will be carried out using predefined search terms to identify relevant studies. This review will include studies that examined the self-efficacy of direct care workers in caring for older people living in residential aged care facilities. All primary studies irrespective of the study design will be included. Studies conducted to develop measures or studies with informal care workers or students as study participants will not be considered. Two reviewers will independently conduct title and abstract screening, full-text screening, and data charting. A third reviewer will resolve discrepancies, while the final decision for conflicting studies will be made by consensus within the review team. Descriptive statistics will be utilized to analyze the quantitative findings, and the result will be presented in narrative form accompanied by tables and charts. Content analysis will be carried to analyze the qualitative findings and will be presented in narrative form supported by illustrative quotations. This study will be an important source of knowledge to policymakers and aged care providers to understand the self-efficacy of aged care workers to support and enhance their self-efficacy and thereby improve their caring behaviors towards their clients. Joanna Briggs Institute Systematic Review Register with the title “A scoping review of factors influencing caring efficacy of direct care workers providing care to older people”.
Publisher: Massachusetts Medical Society
Date: 20-12-2018
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-12-2022
DOI: 10.1111/JRH.12638
Abstract: Research examining psychological well‐being associated with COVID‐19 in rural/regional Australia is limited. This study aimed to assess the extent of psychological distress, fear of COVID‐19, and coping strategies among the attendees in COVID‐19 screening clinics at 2 rural Victorian settings. A cross‐sectional study was conducted during July 2020 to February 2021 inclusive. Participants were invited to fill in an online questionnaire. Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K‐10), Fear of COVID‐19 Scale, and Brief Resilient Coping Scale were used to assess psychological distress, fear of COVID‐19, and coping, respectively. Among 702 total participants, 69% were females and mean age (±SD) was 49 (±15.8) years. One in 5 participants (156, 22%) experienced high to very high psychological distress, 1 in 10 (72, 10%) experienced high fear, and more than half (397, 57%) had medium to high resilient coping. Participants with mental health issues had higher distress (AOR 10.4, 95% CI: 6.25‐17.2) and fear (2.56, 1.41‐4.66). Higher distress was also associated with having comorbidities, increased smoking (5.71, 1.04‐31.4), and alcohol drinking (2.03, 1.21‐3.40). Higher fear was associated with negative financial impact, drinking alcohol (2.15, 1.06‐4.37), and increased alcohol drinking. Medium to high resilient coping was associated with being ≥60 years old (1.84, 1.04‐3.24) and completing Bachelor and above levels of education. People who had pre‐existing mental health issues, comorbidities, smoked, and consumed alcohol were identified as high‐risk groups for poorer psychological well‐being in rural/regional Victoria. Specific interventions to support the mental well‐being of these vulnerable populations, along with engaging health care providers, should be considered.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 05-08-2021
Abstract: We examined the intention and predictors of accepting the COVID-19 vaccine in Saudi Arabia. We conducted a nation-wide, cross-sectional online survey between February and March 2021. A total of 1387 people (≥18 years) participated. Only 27.3% adults had a definite and 30.2% had a probable vaccination intent 26.8% and 15.6% had a probable and definite negative vaccination intent. Older people (≥50 years) (p 0.01), healthcare workers rofessionals (p 0.001), and those who received flu vaccine (p 0.001) were more likely to have a positive intent. People from Riyadh were less likely to receive the vaccine (p 0.05). Among the health belief model constructs, perceived susceptibility to and severity of COVID-19 (p 0.001), and perceived benefit of the vaccine (p 0.001) were positively associated with vaccination intent, whereas perceived barriers had a negative association (p 0.001). In iduals were more likely to receive the vaccine after obtaining complete information (p 0.001) and when the vaccine uptake would be more common amongst the public (p 0.001).
Publisher: E.U. European Publishing
Date: 12-11-2018
DOI: 10.18332/TID/98957
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2022
Publisher: E.U. European Publishing
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.18332/TID/83852
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 21-09-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-57952/V2
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the personal, professional and social life of Australians with some people more impacted than others. Objectives: This study aimed to identify factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents in Australia, including patients, frontline health and other essential service workers, and community members during June 2020. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) level of fear was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the extent of psychological distress, level of fear and coping strategies while adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Among 587 participants, the majority (391, 73.2%) were 30-59 years old and female (363, 61.8%). More than half (349, 59.5%) were born outside Australia and two-third (418, 71.5%) completed at least a Bachelor’s degree. The majority (401, 71.5%) had a source of income, 243 (42.3%) self-identified as a frontline worker, and 335 (58.9%) reported financial impact due to COVID-19. Comorbidities such as pre-existing mental health conditions (AOR 3.13, 95% CIs 1.12-8.75), increased smoking (8.66, 1.08-69.1) and alcohol drinking (2.39, 1.05-5.47) over the last four weeks, high levels of fear (2.93, 1.83-4.67) and being female (1.74, 1.15-2.65) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress. Perceived distress due to change of employment status (4.14, 1.39-12.4), alcohol drinking (3.64, 1.54-8.58), providing care to known or suspected cases (3.64, 1.54-8.58), being female (1.56, 1.00-2.45), being 30-59 years old (2.29, 1.21-4.35) and having medium to high levels of psychological distress (2.90, 1.82-5.62) were associated with a higher level of fear while healthcare service use in the last four weeks was associated with medium to high resilience. Conclusions: This study identified in iduals who were at higher risk of distress and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic specifically in the State of Victoria, Australia. Specific interventions to support the mental wellbeing of these in iduals should be considered in addition to the existing resources within primary healthcare settings.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 13-08-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-57952/V1
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the personal, professional and social life of Australians with some people more impacted than others. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. Methods: This cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents in Australia, including patients, frontline health and other essential service workers, and community members during Jun-2020. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), level of fear was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the extent of psychological distress, level of fear and coping strategies while adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Among 587 participants, the majority (391, 73.2%) were 30-59 years old and female (363, 61.8%). More than half (349, 59.5%) were born outside Australia and two-third (418, 71.5%) completed at least a Bachelor’s degree. The majority (401, 71.5%) had a source of income, 243 (42.3%) self-identified as a frontline worker, and 335 (58.9%) reported financial impact due to COVID-19. Comorbidities such as pre-existing mental health conditions (AOR 3.13, 95% CIs 1.12-8.75), increased smoking (8.66, 1.08-69.1) and alcohol drinking (2.39, 1.05-5.47) over the last four weeks, high levels of fear (2.93, 1.83-4.67) and being female (1.74, 1.15-2.65) were associated with a higher levels of psychological distress. Perceived distress due to change of employment status (4.14, 1.39-12.4), alcohol drinking (3.64, 1.54-8.58), providing care to known or suspected cases (3.64, 1.54-8.58), being female (1.56, 1.00-2.45), being 30-59 years old (2.29, 1.21-4.35) and having medium to high levels of psychological distress (2.90, 1.82-5.62) were associated with a higher level of fear while healthcare service use in the last four weeks was associated with medium to high resilience. Conclusions: This study identified in iduals who were at higher risk of distress and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Australia. Specific interventions to support the mental wellbeing of these in iduals should be considered in addition to the existing resources within primary healthcare settings.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2015
Publisher: E.U. European Publishing
Date: 2014
Publisher: Science Alert
Date: 15-06-2012
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-03-2023
Abstract: To characterise paediatric poisoning presentations to EDs and determine if the advent of the COVID‐19 pandemic was associated with increased intentional paediatric poisoning presentations. We performed a retrospective analysis of paediatric poisoning presentations to three EDs (two regional and one metropolitan). Simple and multiple logistic regression analysis were performed to determine the association between COVID‐19 and intentional poisoning events. In addition, we calculated the frequency with which patients reported various psychosocial risk factors as being an implicating factor in engaging in an intentional poisoning event. A total of 860 poisoning events met inclusion criteria during the study period (January 2018–October 2021), with 501 being intentional, and 359 unintentional. There was an increased proportion of intentional poisoning presentations during the COVID‐19 pandemic (261 intentional and 218 unintentional in the pre‐COVID‐19 period vs 241 intentional and 140 unintentional during the COVID‐19 period). In addition, we found a statistically significant association between intentional poisoning presentations and an initial COVID‐19 lockdown (adjusted odds ratio 26.32, P 0.05). ‘The COVID‐19 lockdown’ or ‘COVID‐19’ was reported to be implicating factor for psychological stress in patients who presented with intentional poisonings during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Intentional paediatric poisoning presentations increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic in our study population. These results may support an emerging body of evidence that the psychological strain of COVID‐19 disproportionately impacts adolescent females.
Publisher: E.U. European Publishing
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.18332/TID/83853
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-11-2021
Abstract: This study explored the perceived change in tobacco use during the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated factors among older adults residing in Rohingya refugee c s, also referred to as Forcibly Displaced Myanmar Nationals in Bangladesh. The study followed a cross-sectional design and was conducted in October 2020 among 416 older adults aged 60 years and above. A purposive s ling technique was applied to identify eligible participants, and face-to-face interviews were conducted using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire to collect the data. Participants were asked if they noted any change in their tobacco use patterns (smoking or smokeless tobacco) during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to pre-pandemic. Binary logistic regression models determined the factors associated with the perceived change in tobacco use. More than one in five participants (22.4%) were current tobacco users, of whom 40.8% reported a perceived increase in tobacco use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjusted analysis revealed that participants who were concerned about COVID-19 had significantly (p 0.05) lower odds of perceived increase in tobacco use (aOR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.06–0.73), while older adults who were overwhelmed by COVID-19 (aOR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.06–1.18) and communicated less frequently with others during the pandemic than before (aOR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.03–1.20) had marginally significantly (p 0.1) lower odds of perceived increase in tobacco use during this pandemic. Relevant stakeholders, policymakers, and practitioners need to focus on strengthening awareness-raising initiatives as part of an emergency preparedness plan to control tobacco use during such a crisis period.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-01-2021
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-01-2020
DOI: 10.1136/INJURYPREV-2019-043296
Abstract: The epidemiological transition of non-communicable diseases replacing infectious diseases as the main contributors to disease burden has been well documented in global health literature. Less focus, however, has been given to the relationship between sociodemographic changes and injury. The aim of this study was to examine the association between disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) from injury for 195 countries and territories at different levels along the development spectrum between 1990 and 2017 based on the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2017 estimates. Injury mortality was estimated using the GBD mortality database, corrections for garbage coding and CODEm—the cause of death ensemble modelling tool. Morbidity estimation was based on surveys and inpatient and outpatient data sets for 30 cause-of-injury with 47 nature-of-injury categories each. The Socio-demographic Index (SDI) is a composite indicator that includes lagged income per capita, average educational attainment over age 15 years and total fertility rate. For many causes of injury, age-standardised DALY rates declined with increasing SDI, although road injury, interpersonal violence and self-harm did not follow this pattern. Particularly for self-harm opposing patterns were observed in regions with similar SDI levels. For road injuries, this effect was less pronounced. The overall global pattern is that of declining injury burden with increasing SDI. However, not all injuries follow this pattern, which suggests multiple underlying mechanisms influencing injury DALYs. There is a need for a detailed understanding of these patterns to help to inform national and global efforts to address injury-related health outcomes across the development spectrum.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.AUCC.2016.03.005
Abstract: Literature suggests an ongoing gender disparity in the use of coronary angiography and subsequent interventions among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The study aimed to examine gender differences in the use of coronary interventions amongst patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) admitted to a major metropolitan hospital in Melbourne during the period 2009-2012. We undertook a retrospective analysis of a hospital database of 2096 ACS patients. ACS included unstable angina (UA), ST-segment-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI (NSTEMI). The mean age of the patients was 64.3 years and 624 (30%) were women. Half of them were diagnosed as NSTEMI, 23% as STEMI and 25% as UA. Compared to men, women were older at admission, less likely to be diagnosed with STEMI and less likely to smoke. No gender difference was observed for severe co-morbidities or use of coronary angiography. Women diagnosed with STEMI were 39% less likely to receive an angioplasty stent (adjusted odds ratio 0.61, 95% confidence intervals 0.39-0.96) and 66% less likely to receive grafts (adjusted OR 0.34, 95% CIs 0.13-0.93). Women diagnosed with NSTEMI were 44% less likely to receive grafts (adjusted OR 0.56, 95% CIs 0.37-0.83). Younger women aged 35-49 years were less likely to receive an angioplasty stent, and older women >50 years were less likely to receive grafts. Adherence to guideline based treatment will help to ensure knowledge translation from guideline to practice. Further research investigating symptom presentation, use of non-invasive tests and medical management of ACS by gender may further explain gender difference for coronary interventions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-01-2012
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1071/AH15175
Abstract: Objectives The aim of the present study was to explore Aboriginal patients’ lived experiences of cardiac care at a major metropolitan hospital in Melbourne. Methods The study was a qualitative study involving in-depth interviews with a purposive s le of 10 Aboriginal patients who had been treated in the cardiology unit at the study hospital during 2012–13. A phenomenological approach was used to analyse the data. Results Eight themes emerged from the data, each concerning various aspects of participants’ experiences: ‘dislike of hospitals’, ‘system failures’, ‘engagement with hospital staff’, ‘experiences of racism’, ‘health literacy and information needs’, ‘self-identifying as Aboriginal’, ‘family involvement in care’ and ‘going home and difficulties adapting’. Most participants had positive experiences of the cardiac care, but hospitalisation was often challenging because of a sense of dislocation and disorientation. The stress of hospitalisation was greatly mediated by positive engagements with staff, but at times exacerbated by system failures or negative experiences. Conclusion Cardiac crises are stressful and hospital stays were particularly disorienting for Aboriginal people dislocated from their home land and community. What is known about the topic? Aboriginal people have higher mortality rates due to cardiovascular diseases compared with other Australians. Along with different factors contributing to the life expectancy gap, Aboriginal people also face significant barriers in the use of the healthcare system. What does this paper add? Aboriginal patients’ lived experience of cardiac care at a major metropolitan hospital in Melbourne is explored in this paper. Different issues were revealed during their interaction with the hospital staff and the hospital system in conjunction with their cultural aspect of patient care. What are the implications for practitioners? Positive interactions with staff, ongoing support from family and community, culturally appropriate cardiac rehabilitation programs can improve the cardiac care experiences of Aboriginal patients.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-11-2015
DOI: 10.1080/10376178.2016.1157029
Abstract: To assess a dialysis nurse practitioner (NP) model of care by examining satisfaction, quality of life (QOL) and clinical outcomes of haemodialysis patients and explore experiences of dialysis nurses. Mixed methods. Database analyses of dialysis indices amongst a s le (n = 45) of haemodialysis patients a survey (n = 27) examining patient experience, satisfaction and QOL and in-depth interviews with a s le (n = 10) of nurses. Nurses commended the NP role, with five themes emerging: "managing and co-ordinating", "streamlining and alleviating", "developing capability", "supporting innovation and quality" and "connecting rurally". Patients' average age was 66 years and 71% were male. Patients' satisfaction with the care they received was rated 3.5/4 or higher across seven parameters and the average QOL score was 7.9/10. The NP model of care is effective in enhancing patient care within a collaborative framework. The challenge is to sustain, and enhance the model, through mentorship programs for potential candidates.
Publisher: American Physiological Society
Date: 10-2019
DOI: 10.1152/AJPCELL.00516.2018
Abstract: G protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) is an important protein involved in β-adrenergic receptor desensitization. In addition, studies have shown GRK2 can modulate different metabolic processes in the cell. For instance, GRK2 has been recently shown to promote mitochondrial biogenesis and increase ATP production. However, the role of GRK2 in skeletal muscle and the signaling mechanisms that regulate GRK2 remain poorly understood. Myostatin is a well-known myokine that has been shown to impair mitochondria function. Here, we have assessed the role of myostatin in regulating GRK2 and the subsequent downstream effect of myostatin regulation of GRK2 on mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle. Myostatin treatment promoted the loss of GRK2 protein in myoblasts and myotubes in a time- and dose-dependent manner, which we suggest was through enhanced ubiquitin-mediated protein loss, as treatment with proteasome inhibitors partially rescued myostatin-mediated loss of GRK2 protein. To evaluate the effects of GRK2 on mitochondrial respiration, we generated stable myoblast lines that overexpress GRK2. Stable overexpression of GRK2 resulted in increased mitochondrial content and enhanced mitochondrial/oxidative respiration. Interestingly, although overexpression of GRK2 was unable to prevent myostatin-mediated impairment of mitochondrial respiratory function, elevated levels of GRK2 blocked the increased autophagic flux observed following treatment with myostatin. Overall, our data suggest a novel role for GRK2 in regulating mitochondria mass and mitochondrial respiration in skeletal muscle.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-01-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0245335
Abstract: Anaemia is a significant public health problem in most South-Asian countries, causing increased maternal and child mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of and factors associated with anaemia in women of reproductive age in Bangladesh, Mal es, and Nepal. We used the nationally-representative Demographic and Health Surveys Program data collected from women of reproductive age (15–49 years) in 2011 in Bangladesh (n = 5678), 2016 in Mal es (n = 6837), and 2016 in Nepal (n = 6419). Anaemia was categorized as mild (haemoglobin [Hb] of 10.0–10.9 g/dL for pregnant women and 11.0–11.9 g/dL for non-pregnant women), moderate (Hb of 7.0–9.9 g/dL for pregnant women and 8.0–10.9 g/dL for non-pregnant women), and severe (Hb .0 g/dL for pregnant women and 8.0 g/dL for non-pregnant women). Multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with anaemia. The prevalence of anaemia was 41.8% in Bangladesh, 58.5% in Mal es, and 40.6% in Nepal. In Bangladesh, postpartum amenorrhoeic, non-educated, and pregnant women were more likely to have moderate/severe anaemia compared to women who were menopausal, had secondary education, and were not pregnant, respectively. In Mal es, residence in urban areas, underweight, having undergone female sterilization, current pregnancy, and menstruation in the last six weeks were associated with increased odds of moderate/severe anaemia. In Nepal, factors associated with increased odds of moderate/severe anaemia were having undergone female sterilization and current pregnancy. Anaemia remains a significant public health issue among 15-49-year-old women in Bangladesh, Mal es, and Nepal, which requires urgent attention. Effective policies and programmes for the control and prevention of anaemia should take into account the unique factors associated with anaemia identified in each country. In all three countries, strategies for the prevention and control of anaemia should particularly focus on women who are pregnant, underweight, or have undergone sterilization.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2020
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2020-055977
Abstract: To estimate the proportion of retailers that sell tobacco in the absence of appropriate local government oversight, and to describe the characteristics by which they differ from those that can expect to receive such oversight. A database of listed tobacco retailers was obtained from a regional Victorian local government. Potential unlisted tobacco retailers were added using online searches, and attempts to visit all retailers were undertaken. GPS coordinates and sales type information of retailers that sold tobacco were recorded and attached to neighbourhood-level data on socioeconomic disadvantage and smoking prevalence using ArcMap. Logistic regression analyses, χ 2 tests and t-tests were undertaken to explore differences in numbers of listed and unlisted retailers by business and neighbourhood-level characteristics. Of 125 confirmed tobacco retailers, 43.2% were trading potentially without government oversight. Significant differences were found between listed and unlisted retailers by primary business type (p .001), and sales type (p .001) but not by the other characteristics. The database of tobacco retailers was inaccurate in two ways: (1) a number of listed retailers no longer operated or sold tobacco, and (2) 43.2% of businesses confirmed as selling tobacco were missing. As no form of licensing system exists in Victoria, it is difficult to identify the number of retailers operating, or to determine how many receive formal regulatory oversight. A positive licensing system is recommended to regulate the sale of tobacco and to generate a comprehensive database of retailers, similar to that which exists for food registration, gaming and liquor-licensed premises.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2019-036468
Abstract: South Asia is home to more than 300 million smokeless tobacco (ST) users. Bangladesh, India and Pakistan as signatories to the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (FCTC) have developed policies aimed at curbing the use of tobacco. The objective of this study is to assess the compliance of ST point-of-sale (POS) vendors and the supply chain with the articles of the FCTC and specifically with national tobacco control laws. We also aim to assess disparities in compliance with tobacco control laws between ST and smoked tobacco products. The study will be carried out at two sites each in Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. We will conduct a sequential mixed-methods study with five components: (1) mapping of ST POS, (2) analyses of ST s les packaging, (3) observation, (4) survey interviews of POS and (5) in-depth interviews with wholesale dealers/suppliers/manufacturers of ST. We aim to conduct at least 300 POS survey interviews and observations, and 6–10 in-depth interviews in each of the three countries. Data collection will be done by trained data collectors. The main statistical analysis will report the frequencies and proportions of shops that comply with the FCTC and local tobacco control policies, and provide a 95% CI of these estimates. The qualitative in-depth interview data will be analysed using the framework approach. The findings will be connected, each component informing the focus and/or design of the next component. Ethical approvals for the study have been received from the Health Sciences Research Governance Committee at the University of York, UK. In-country approvals were taken from the National Bioethics Committee in Pakistan, the Bangladesh Medical Research Council and the Indian Medical Research Council. Our results will be disseminated via scientific conferences, peer-reviewed research publications and press releases.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 29-03-2022
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0266052
Abstract: Smoking and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are associated with an increased risk of post-operative pulmonary complications (PPCs) following lung cancer resection. It remains unclear whether smoking cessation reduces this risk. Retrospective review of a large, prospectively collected database of over 1000 consecutive resections for lung cancer in a quaternary lung cancer centre over a 23-year period. One thousand and thirteen patients underwent curative-intent lobectomy or pneumonectomy between 1995 and 2018. Three hundred and sixty-two patients (36%) were ex-smokers, 314 (31%) were current smokers and 111 (11%) were never smokers. A pre-operative diagnosis of COPD was present in 57% of current smokers, 57% of ex-smokers and 20% of never smokers. Just over 25% of patients experienced a PPC. PPCs were more frequent in current smokers compared to never smokers (27% vs 17%, p = 0.036), however, no difference was seen between current and ex-smokers (p = 0.412) or between never and ex-smokers (p = 0.113). Those with a diagnosis of COPD, independent of smoking status, had a higher frequency of both PPCs (65% vs 35%, p .01) and overall complications (60% vs 40%, p .01) as well as a longer length of hospital stay (10 vs 9 days, p .01). Smoking and COPD are both associated with a higher rate of PPCs post lung cancer resection. COPD, independent of smoking status, is also associated with an increased overall post-operative complication rate and length of hospital stay. An emphasis on COPD treatment optimisation, rather than smoking cessation in isolation, may help improve post-operative outcomes.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2022
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-10-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S40359-020-00477-3
Abstract: This study explored the psychometric properties and dimensionality of the Stress of Conscience Questionnaire (SCQ) in a s le of health professionals from a tertiary-level Australian hospital. The SCQ, a measure of stress of conscience, is a recently developed nine-item instrument for assessing frequently encountered stressful situations in health care, and the degree to which they trouble the conscience of health professionals. This is relevant because stress of conscience has been associated with negative experiences such as job strain and/or burnout. The validity of SCQ has not been explored beyond Scandinavian contexts. A cross-sectional study of 253 health professionals was undertaken in 2015. The analysis involved estimates of reliability, variability and dimensionality. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to explore dimensionality and theoretical model fit respectively. Cronbach’s alpha of 0.84 showed internal consistency reliability. All in idual items of the SCQ (N = 9) met the cut-off criteria for item-total correlations ( 0.3) indicating acceptable homogeneity. Adequate variability was confirmed for most of the items, with some items indicating floor or ceiling effects. EFA retained a single latent factor with adequate factor loadings for a unidimensional structure. When the two‐factor model was compared to the one‐factor model, the latter achieved better goodness of fit supporting a one-factor model for the SCQ. The SCQ, as a unidimensional measure of stress of conscience, achieved adequate reliability and variability in this study. Due to unidimensionality of the tool, summation of a total score can be a meaningful way forward to summarise and communicate results from future studies, enabling international comparisons. However, further exploration of the questionnaire in other cultures and clinical settings is recommended to explore the stability of the latent one-factor structure.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 28-09-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 08-10-2020
DOI: 10.1186/S12992-020-00624-W
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the personal, professional and social life of Australians with some people more impacted than others. This study aimed to identify factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents in Australia, including patients, frontline health and other essential service workers, and community members during June 2020. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10) level of fear was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the extent of psychological distress, level of fear and coping strategies while adjusting for potential confounders. Among 587 participants, the majority (391, 73.2%) were 30–59 years old and female (363, 61.8%). More than half (349, 59.5%) were born outside Australia and two-third (418, 71.5%) completed at least a Bachelor’s degree. The majority (401, 71.5%) had a source of income, 243 (42.3%) self-identified as a frontline worker, and 335 (58.9%) reported financial impact due to COVID-19. Comorbidities such as pre-existing mental health conditions (AOR 3.13, 95% CIs 1.12–8.75), increased smoking (8.66, 1.08–69.1) and alcohol drinking (2.39, 1.05–5.47) over the last four weeks, high levels of fear (2.93, 1.83–4.67) and being female (1.74, 1.15–2.65) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress. Perceived distress due to change of employment status (4.14, 1.39–12.4), alcohol drinking (3.64, 1.54–8.58), providing care to known or suspected cases (3.64, 1.54–8.58), being female (1.56, 1.00–2.45), being 30–59 years old (2.29, 1.21–4.35) and having medium to high levels of psychological distress (2.90, 1.82–5.62) were associated with a higher level of fear while healthcare service use in the last four weeks was associated with medium to high resilience. This study identified in iduals who were at higher risk of distress and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic specifically in the State of Victoria, Australia. Specific interventions to support the mental wellbeing of these in iduals should be considered in addition to the existing resources within primary healthcare settings.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2021
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-057896
Abstract: This study assessed the changes in prevalence and associated factors of tobacco smoking among Bangladeshi adults over time. Nationally representative cross-sectional surveys. Two most recent Global Adults Tobacco Survey (GATS) data from Bangladesh, carried out in 2009 and 2017. Adult population aged 15 and above (n=9629 in 2009 n=12 783 in 2017). Current use of tobacco smoke, including cigarettes, bidi, hukkah, cigars or pipes, which was dichotomised (‘yes’/‘no’). We analysed data from two recent rounds of GATS (2009 and 2017). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used. The overall prevalence of tobacco smoking among Bangladeshi adults was noted (23.00%, 95% CI 22.98 to 23.00 in 2009 16.44%, 95% CI 16.43 to 16.45 in 2017). Being male (adjusted OR (AOR)=59.72, CI 40.56 to 87.93 for 2009 AOR=71.17, CI 41.08 to 123.32 for 2017), age between 25 and 64 years (all AORs and p .05), smoking permissible at home (AOR=7.08, CI 5.88 to 8.52 for 2009 AOR=5.90, CI 5.34 to 6.95 for 2017), and watching tobacco smoking product use in movie/drama scenes (AOR=1.26, CI 1.11 to 1.44 for 2009 AOR=1.34, CI 1.17 to 1.54 for 2017) were found to be significantly associated with increased tobacco smoking among adults both in 2009 and in 2017. However, being offered free tobacco s le products (AOR=0.66, CI 0.57 to 0.77 for 2009 AOR=0.87, CI 0.76 to 0.99 for 2017) and having primary, secondary or higher education (all AORs and p .05) as well as being a student (AOR=0.16, CI 0.09 to 0.29 for 2009 AOR=0.32, CI 0.19 to 0.53) were associated with lower odds of tobacco smoking in both surveys. Although the prevalence of tobacco smoking has declined over the period, it is still high among those who were relatively older, men, less educated and exposed to a movie/drama where tobacco smoking is promoted. Therefore, appropriate interventions are required to stop tobacco smoking among the Bangladeshi population.
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 03-2014
Publisher: Universitas Airlangga
Date: 30-01-2022
DOI: 10.20473/JBE.V10I12022.21-29
Abstract: Background: Stroke is a disease condition caused by the sudden stopping of the blood supply to the brain, either because of a blockage or ruptured blood vessels. The prevalence of stroke in Indonesia based on Basic health research in 2013 was 7‰ and increased in 2018 to 10.9‰. Purpose: This research aims to determine the effect of smoking behaviour on the prevalence of stroke in Surabaya, Indonesia. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. The study population included all visitors to nerve poly at Haji Hospital Surabaya. Data were collected from respondents through interviews and patient medical record data from August to September 2019. Univariate and bivariate analyses were done to identify the association between smoking and stroke incidence. Results: A total of 187 people participated in the study. The majority of them were aged ≥ 55 years (78.16%), with 55.17% being male. There is 32.18% active smoker and 28.74% passive smoker for stroke patients. There is an association of the type of non-filter cigarettes with the prevalence of stroke p = 0.01, PR = 4.02 95% Cl = 1.38-11.67), and duration of exposure ≥30 years (p = 0.01, PR = 7.84 95% Cl = 2.75-22.32) Conclusion: there is an influence of types of non-filter cigarettes and exposure time ≥ 30 years with the incidence of stroke in the city of Surabaya.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-04-2020
DOI: 10.1038/S41591-020-0807-6
Abstract: A double burden of malnutrition occurs when in iduals, household members or communities experience both undernutrition and overweight. Here, we show geospatial estimates of overweight and wasting prevalence among children under 5 years of age in 105 low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) from 2000 to 2017 and aggregate these to policy-relevant administrative units. Wasting decreased overall across LMICs between 2000 and 2017, from 8.4% (62.3 (55.1–70.8) million) to 6.4% (58.3 (47.6–70.7) million), but is predicted to remain above the World Health Organization’s Global Nutrition Target of % in over half of LMICs by 2025. Prevalence of overweight increased from 5.2% (30 (22.8–38.5) million) in 2000 to 6.0% (55.5 (44.8–67.9) million) children aged under 5 years in 2017. Areas most affected by double burden of malnutrition were located in Indonesia, Thailand, southeastern China, Botswana, Cameroon and central Nigeria. Our estimates provide a new perspective to researchers, policy makers and public health agencies in their efforts to address this global childhood syndemic.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12992-021-00768-3
Abstract: The current pandemic of COVID-19 impacted the psychological wellbeing of populations globally. We aimed to examine the extent and identify factors associated with psychological distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping. We conducted a cross-sectional study across 17 countries during Jun-2020 to Jan-2021. Levels of psychological distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale), fear of COVID-19 (Fear of COVID-19 Scale), and coping (Brief Resilient Coping Scale) were assessed. A total of 8,559 people participated mean age (±SD) was 33(±13) years, 64% were females and 40% self-identified as frontline workers. More than two-thirds (69%) experienced moderate-to-very high levels of psychological distress, which was 46% in Thailand and 91% in Egypt. A quarter (24%) had high levels of fear of COVID-19, which was as low as 9% in Libya and as high as 38% in Bangladesh. More than half (57%) exhibited medium to high resilient coping the lowest prevalence (3%) was reported in Australia and the highest (72%) in Syria. Being female (AOR 1.31 [95% CIs 1.09-1.57]), perceived distress due to change of employment status (1.56 [1.29-1.90]), comorbidity with mental health conditions (3.02 [1.20-7.60]) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress and fear. Doctors had higher psychological distress (1.43 [1.04-1.97]), but low levels of fear of COVID-19 (0.55 [0.41-0.76]) nurses had medium to high resilient coping (1.30 [1.03-1.65]). The extent of psychological distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping varied by country however, we identified few higher risk groups who were more vulnerable than others. There is an urgent need to prioritise health and well-being of those people through well-designed intervention that may need to be tailored to meet country specific requirements.
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 25-06-2020
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-37013/V1
Abstract: Background: Self-efficacy is developed through a person’s interaction with his/her physical and social environment. Self-efficacy in caring is an essential attribute of care workers to develop a positive attitude towards their clients, improve work performance, and enhance job satisfaction. Care workers’ self-efficacy may vary according to the context in which the care is being provided. Aged care is a multidimensional and challenging setting, and characteristics of aged care services are different from those of acute care services. The objective of this review is to give an overview of the self-efficacy of residential aged care workers in caring for older people and factors influencing their self-efficacy. Methods: The protocol for this review is based on the Joanna Briggs Institute Reviewer's Manual for Scoping Review. A systematic search of the literature on electronic databases MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, AgeLine, SCOPUS, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global will be carried out using predefined search terms to identify relevant studies. This review will include studies that examined the self-efficacy of direct care workers in caring for older people living in residential aged care facilities. All primary studies irrespective of the study design will be included. Studies conducted to develop measures or studies with informal care workers or students as study participants will not be considered. Two reviewers will independently conduct title and abstract screening, full-text screening, and data charting. A third reviewer will resolve discrepancies, while the final decision for conflicting studies will be made by consensus within the review team. Descriptive statistics will be utilised to analyse the quantitative findings and the result will be presented in narrative form accompanied by tables and charts. Content analysis will be carried to analyse the qualitative findings and will be presented in narrative form supported by illustrative quotations. Discussion: This study will be an important source of knowledge to policymakers and aged care providers to understand the self-efficacy of aged care workers to support and enhance their self-efficacy and thereby improve their caring behaviours towards their clients. Scoping review registration: Joanna Briggs Institute Systematic Review Register with the title ‘A scoping review of factors influencing caring efficacy of direct care workers providing care to older people’
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 02-2022
Abstract: The use of electronic cigarettes or vaping is currently increasing in popularity globally. Debate continues regarding their potential role for smoking cessation. We aimed to compare the profiles, use and perceptions of using e-cigarettes amongst online forum users in a developed and a developing country. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among members of different popular online forums in Australia and Bangladesh who were current or ex-users of e-cigarettes. There were 422 study participants, 261 (62%) from Australia and 161 (38%) from Bangladesh. The mean age was 36.3 (±12) years and 83% were men. Australians were more likely to be exclusive users of e-cigarettes (70% vs. 30%, AOR 3.05 [95% CI 1.63–5.71]), but less likely to be dual users of smoking and e-cigarettes (43% vs. 57%, 0.36 [0.19–0.69]) they were also more likely to mention that the perceived reasons for using were their low cost, good taste/flavour, safety and assistance in reducing or quitting smoking (66% vs. 34%, 5.10 [2.04–12.8]), but less likely to mention a social/cool image as a reason for use (23% vs. 77%, 0.11 [0.01–0.87]) compared with Bangladeshi participants. About two-thirds of the participants in both countries perceived the use of e-cigarettes as less addictive than cigarettes and more than three-quarters perceived them as less harmful. E-cigarette users in Australia were more likely to use them to reduce or quit cigarettes compared with those in Bangladesh, and dual use was common in Bangladesh. These findings warrant the consideration of precautions for promoting e-cigarettes as a harm reduction strategy for smoking cessation in developing countries, such as Bangladesh.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 24-12-2021
Abstract: Background: Psychological sufferings are observed among dental students during their academic years, which had been intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives: This study assessed the levels and identified factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping experienced by dental undergraduate students in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross sectional online survey was conducted during October-November, 2021. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) were used in order to assess psychological distress, fear and coping strategies, respectively. Results: A total of 327 students participated the majority (72%) were 19–23 years old and females (75%). One in five participants were infected with COVID-19 and 15% reported contact with COVID-19 cases. Negative financial impact (AOR 3.72, 95% CIs 1.28–10.8), recent or past COVID-19 infection, and contact with COVID-19 cases were associated with higher levels of psychological distress but being a third year student (0.14, 0.04–0.55) and being satisfied about current social life (0.11, 0.03–0.33) were associated with lower levels of psychological distress. Being a third year (0.17, 0.08–0.39) and a fourth year student (0.29, 0.12–0.71) were associated with lower levels of fear. Health care service use and feeling positive about life were associated with medium to high resilience coping. Conclusions: This study identified dental students in Bangladesh who were at higher risk of psychological distress, fear and coping during the ongoing pandemic. Development of a mental health support system within dental institutions should be considered in addition to the academic and clinical teaching.
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 03-2014
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-10-2022
DOI: 10.1111/HEX.13634
Abstract: Low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) have a disproportionately high burden of chronic diseases, with inequalities in health care access and quality services. This study aimed to assess patients' preferences for healthcare services for chronic disease management among adult patients in Bangladesh. The present analysis was conducted among 10,385 patients suffering from chronic diseases, drawn from the latest Household Income and Expenditure Survey 2016–2017. We used the multinomial logistic regression to investigate the association of chronic comorbid conditions and healthcare service‐related factors with patients' preferences for healthcare services. The top four dimensions of patient preference for healthcare services in order of magnitude were quality of treatment (30.3%), short distance to health facility (27.6%), affordability of health care (21.7%) and availability of doctors (11.0%). Patients with heart disease had a 29% significantly lower preference for healthcare affordability than the quality of healthcare services (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 0.71 0.56–0.90). Patients who received healthcare services from pharmacies or dispensaries were more likely to prefer a short distance to a health facility (RRR = 6.99 4.80–9.86) or affordability of healthcare services (RRR = 3.13 2.25–4.36). Patients with comorbid conditions were more likely to prefer healthcare affordability (RRR = 1.39 1.15–1.68). In addition, patients who received health care from a public facility had 2.93 times higher preference for the availability of medical doctors (RRR = 2.93 1.70–5.04) than the quality of treatment in the health facility, when compared with private service providers. Patient preferences for healthcare services in chronic disease management were significantly associated with the type of disease and its magnitude and characteristics of healthcare providers. Therefore, to enhance service provision and equitable distribution and uptake of health services, policymakers and public health practitioners should consider patient preferences in designing national strategic frameworks for chronic disease management. Our research team includes four researchers (co‐authors) with chronic diseases who have experience of living or working with people suffering from chronic conditions or diseases.
Publisher: American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)
Date: 20-06-2006
DOI: 10.1200/JCO.2006.24.18_SUPPL.10792
Abstract: 10792 Background: Metastatic breast cancer is heterogeneous and treatment decisions are influenced by multiple factors. Docetaxel remains as the standard chemotherapy agent in the management of metastatic breast cancer. We conducted a phase II study to examine the efficacy and tolerability of docetaxel with carboplatin in the treatment of visceral metastatic breast cancer patients. Methods: From July 2000 to December 2004, 32 patients with histologically/cytologically proven, bidimensionally measurable visceral (pulmonary & hepatic) metastatic breast cancer, age 18–75 years with ECOG performance status 0–3, no prior chemotherapy, life expectancy 3 months, adequate bone marrow, renal, hepatic and hematological values were enrolled. It was an open-labeled, non-randomized, single-centered and prospective study. The patients received docetaxel (75 mg/m 2 ) and carboplatin AUC 5 on day 1 at an interval of 3 weeks. Outcome measures were response rates and tolerability was measured by adverse events and laboratory blood values. Results: This study consisted of 30 female and only 2 male patients. Median age was 55 years. 18 patients (56.25%) were presented with pulmonary metastases, where as there were 12 patients (66.67%) with single lung and the remaining 6 patients (33.34%) with bilateral lung metastases.14 patients (43.75%) had hepatic metastases. In total, 168 cycles chemotherapy were administered with a median of 5.25 cycles per patient, and 29/32 patients were evaluable for responses. The overall response was 62.07% with 8 complete responses and 10 partial responses. 6 patients (20.69%) had stable disease and only 5 patients (17.24%) had progressive disease. Grade 3 hematological toxicities were observed as follows: neutropenia (24%) and anemia (15.6%). Some non-hematological toxicities (including nausea, vomiting, fluid retention and peripheral neuropathy) in 15 patients (51.72%) were observed. No severe febrile neutropenia and no fatal events were observed. Conclusions: This phase II study supports the use of docetaxel-carboplatin combination in chemo naïve visceral metastatic breast cancer patients due to its very promising effects with well tolerated toxicities in Bangladeshi population. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-04-2016
DOI: 10.1002/9781118663219.WBEGSS672
Abstract: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of deaths among both sexes and is a major health problem for women. There are a number of key issues: a general lack of awareness in women, as well as poor symptom recognition which is often because of atypical symptom presentation. In addition, the difference in symptoms is not only within the general community, but also not recognized by healthcare providers and this poor recognition means that critical treatment can often be delayed. This gender disparity in diagnosis and management comes with a poorer prognosis, as there is greater likelihood of disability and higher rates of illness and deaths than in men. Furthermore, the social impact of women with CHD is often ignored and to date women have been largely under‐represented in research. Finally, it is argued that knowledge translation from guideline to clinical practice is necessary to ensure equity for cardiac disease management among women.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.DIABRES.2022.109210
Abstract: Psychological concerns relating to "diabetes distress" (DD) and depressive symptoms (DS) in in iduals with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may negatively impact adherence to medical treatments and overall mental health. Thus, this study was undertaken to investigate DS and DD in relation to fasting during the month of Ramadan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 735 patients with T2DM in 2021. DD and DS were measured by the Problem Areas in Diabetes scale and Patient Health Questionnaire-9, respectively. Logistic regression and correlation analyses were executed. More than one-third of the participants (41.2%) had DD and DS (36.9%). DS was significantly higher in participants who did not fast (p = 0.027). Participants who had higher dietary ersity were less likely to have DD (p = 0.004) and DS (p = 0.001). Females (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.25-2.85) and those who lived alone (AOR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.25-2.85) were more likely to have DS. Participants with diabetes-related complications were more likely to experience DS (AOR = 2.17 95% CI: 1.5-3.13) and DD (AOR = 3.46 95% CI: 2.42-4.95). DD was also associated with being younger (p = 0.003), having hypertension (p = 0.030), having heart disease (p = 0.012), and taking insulin (p = 0.010). In iduals with T2DM who were not fasting experienced more mental health concerns. Psychosocial support and other interventions from health professionals should be examined and empirical interventions should be implemented to promote the mental health and well-being of in iduals with T2DM.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 22-12-2022
Abstract: E-cigarette use is increasing globally. Recent evidence suggests that e-cigarettes contain harmful substances that could cause adverse health outcomes. This study investigated the prevalence and associated factors of e-cigarette use among male current smokers in Saudi Arabia. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of adult male current smokers in the Al-Ahsa province of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire. We performed logistic regression analyses to investigate the factors associated with e-cigarette use among adult male current smokers. 325 current smokers participated in the study. A third of them (33.5%) were e-cigarette users. Almost all the study participants (97.0%) had heard about e-cigarettes. Participants who were occasional smokers (Odds Ratio (OR): 2.28 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 1.17–4.41) and had good knowledge perception of e-cigarettes (OR 3.49 95% CI: 2.07–5.90) had higher odds of using e-cigarettes when compared to regular smokers of conventional cigarettes and current smokers with poor knowledge perception of e-cigarettes, respectively. In contrast, private employees (OR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.07–0.85), and business owners (OR: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01–0.63) had lower odds of using e-cigarettes compared to unemployed in iduals. Compared with non-e-cigarette users, the rate of conventional cigarette smoking per day was significantly lower among e-cigarette users. Use of e-cigarette (OR: 3.57, 95% CI: 2.14–5.98), believing that e-cigarette quitting is hard (OR: 2.02, 95% CI: 1.17–3.49) and trying to quit e-cigarettes (OR: 2.17, 95% CI: 1.1–4.25) were found to be significant predictors of good knowledge perception of e-cigarettes among the current smokers. The use and knowledge perception of e-cigarettes were higher among occasional conventional male cigarette smokers than regular male smokers in Al-Ahsa province. The use of e-cigarettes as smoking cessation aids should be examined further in the Saudi Arabian setting.
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 29-03-2023
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0282479
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic impacted the psychosocial well-being of the United Arab Emirates [UAE] population like other communities internationally. We aimed to identify the factors associated with psychological distress, fear, and coping amongst community members across the UAE. We conducted a cross-sectional online survey across the UAE during November 2020. Adults aged ≥18 years, living in the UAE who were able to respond to an online questionnaire in English or Arabic were considered eligible to participate in the study. We used standard validated tools to measure psychological distress, fear and coping. Kessler Psychological Distress Scale [K10] was used to assess psychological distress, Fear of COVID-19 Scale [FCV-19S] was used to assess the level of fear, and Brief Resilient Coping Scale [BRCS] was used to assess the coping strategies. A total of 417 in iduals participated in this study with a mean age of 29 [± 10.7] years. More than half of the participants experienced high to very high levels of psychological distress [55%] and a quarter experienced high levels of fear of COVID-19 [23.3%] with almost a third of them [36.2%] having low resilient coping. About 37.4% of the participants had work-related mental health impacts and 32.4% were perceived to have moderate to a great deal of distress due to a change of employment status during the pandemic. One in ten participants [9.4%] reported increased smoking. Increased smoking [AOR 8.66, 95% CIs 1.08–69.1,], increased alcohol drinking [AOR 2.39, 95% CIs 1.05–5.47] and higher levels of fear of COVID-19 [AOR 2.93, 95% CIs 1.83–4.67] were associated with moderate to very high levels of psychological distress. Being female [AOR 1.82, p = 0.030], having a pre-existing mental health condition [AOR 9.88, 95% p = 0.027], engaging in high-risk behaviors such as increased smoking [AOR 21.14, p = 0.003], increased alcohol drinking [AOR 1.48, p = 0.359] in the previous four weeks, and higher levels of fear of COVID-19 [AOR 4.18, p .001] were associated with moderate to very high levels of psychological distress. Also, being a smoker [AOR, 0.840, p = 0.011], and having a high level of fear [AOR 0.372, p = 0.001] were found to be associated with low resilient coping. Community members in the UAE are at a higher risk of psychosocial distress and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, healthcare providers and policymakers would need to be more alert to provide specific mental health support strategies for their wellbeing.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2021
Publisher: Ubiquity Press, Ltd.
Date: 03-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.WHI.2015.09.002
Abstract: Differences in demographics, presenting characteristics, and treatment of heart disease in women may contribute to adverse outcomes. The purpose of this paper was to describe gender differences in the epidemiology, treatment, and outcomes of all admissions for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in Victoria that occurred between June 2007 and July 2009. We undertook a retrospective cohort study of all patients admitted to Victorian hospitals with a first time diagnosis of ACS. Use of angiograms, percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), and adverse outcomes (death and/or unplanned readmission) were compared by gender and hierarchical logistic regression models were used to account for confounding variables. Of a total of 28,985 ACS patients, 10,455 (36%) were women. Compared with men, women were older (aged ≥75 years: 54% vs 31% p 1 comorbidity: 53% vs 46% p < .001), and more likely to be diagnosed with non-ST-segment elevation ACS (86% vs 80% p < .001). Women were less likely to receive coronary interventions (angiogram: adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.71 95% CI, 0.66-0.75 PCI: aOR, 0.73 95% CI, 0.66-0.80 CABG: aOR, 0.58 95% CI, 0.53-0.64). Adverse outcomes were similar in women and men after accounting for confounding variables. Our results show that women in Victoria were less likely to receive coronary interventions after an admission for ACS. Clinicians should be wary of inherent gender bias in decisions to refer patients for angiography.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 31-01-2023
Abstract: The present study describes the experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients and the factors that shaped their experiences of ED visits in regional settings. This is a qualitative descriptive study. We conducted semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients who used the ED services at three hospitals in New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia. We coded the collected data and analysed them using a thematic analysis technique. A total of 33 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients participated. Analyses of their experiences revealed four themes, which included: (i) patients' waiting times in ED (ii) cultural determinants of health (iii) treatment services and (iv) safety, security and privacy. A holistic approach and a robust hospital commitment to address cultural needs while considering overall health, social and emotional wellbeing, will enhance Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients' satisfaction for ED visits.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-039660
Abstract: Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, and lung cancer is the single leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide. Early diagnosis of lung cancer is the key to better prognosis and longer survival. While there are substantial literature reporting delays in cancer diagnosis, there is a lack of consensus in the definitions and terms used to describe ‘delay’ in the treatment pathway. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and critically synthesise the operational definitions and terminologies used to describe the timely initiation of care and consequent treatments over the care pathway for patients with lung cancer. This scoping review will also compare how timeliness was operationalised in Western and Asian countries. The scoping review will use the methodology described by Arksey and O’Malley and endorsed by the Joanna Briggs Institute. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO electronic databases will be searched. Grey literature sources and the reference lists of key studies will be used to identify additional relevant studies. The scoping review will include all studies, irrespective of study methodology and quality. Two reviewers will independently screen all titles and abstracts to identify eligible studies for inclusion. The full texts of identified studies will be further examined and charted using a data extraction form. A narrative synthesis will be performed to assess and categorise available definitions of timeliness. Ethical approval is not needed as this scoping review will be reviewing already published articles. The results produced from this review will be submitted to a scientific peer-reviewed journal for publication and will be presented at scientific meetings.
Publisher: SERDI
Date: 2019
Abstract: In 358 participants of the Tasmanian Healthy Brain Project, we quantified the cognitive consequences of engaging in varying loads of university-level education in later life, and investigated whether or not BDNF Val66Met affected outcomes. Assessment of neuropsychological, health, and psychosocial function was undertaken at baseline, 12-month, and 24-month follow-up. Education load was positively associated with change in language processing performance, but this effect did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.064). The BDNF Val66Met polymorphism significantly moderated the extent to which education load was associated with improved language processing (P = 0.026), with education load having a significant positive relationship with cognitive change in BDNF Met carriers but not in BDNF Val homozygotes. In older adults who carry BDNF Met, engaging in university-level education improves language processing performance in a load-dependent manner.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2013
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2011
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2019
DOI: 10.33151/AJP.16.586
Abstract: Paramedics routinely perform multiple time-sensitive decisions in dynamic environments, often with limited information and equipment. Paramount to patient safety, how paramedics make judgements and decisions within their uncertain environment is important. The primary aim of this review was to identify, examine and synthesise the published literature on how paramedics working in the out-of-hospital environment use judgement and make decisions. Databases Medline, PubMed, CINAHL, Embase were searched and common themes pertaining to paramedic decision-making were identified. Full text original research articles that focussed on how paramedics perform decision-making in the out-of-hospital environment were included. Papers excluded were non-English those examining emergency medical technicians, nurse- or physician-led ambulances paramedics operating in hospital or clinic-based environment and studies of purely paramedic student populations. Data were managed using the ‘preview, question, read, summarise’ approach. A total of 362 abstracts and titles were reviewed six were found to address the research aim. Of those six, four were qualitative in approach, one quantitative and one was mixed-methods. Overall, paramedics displayed the application of subconscious (intuitive) and conscious (analytical) thought processes – consistent with dual-process theory – with experience and formal education influencing factors. Paramedics gathered cues, problem solved, critically analysed, reasoned and displayed aptitude at rapid clinical impressions in critically ill patients with minimal information. Expert paramedics collected, processed and utilised information differently to novices portraying an interconnectedness of conscious and sub-conscious processing. Paramedic judgement and decision-making is complex and multifaceted with multiple layers of knowledge interwoven. Implications for practice include better cognitive performance educational course structure guidance encouraging implementation of routine reflection and feedback, thus promoting continued improvement and better patient outcomes. Despite its importance, research was lacking.
Publisher: Universitas Airlangga
Date: 30-05-2023
DOI: 10.20473/JBE.V11I22023.101-109
Abstract: Background: Depression differs from common mood swings and short-lived emotions. It has been extensively reported that cognitive impairment is associated with depression. Depression affects all aspects of life and interferes with productivity. Purpose: This study examined the association between cognitive function and depression in an Indonesian working age group. Methods: We used data from longitudinal socioeconomic and health surveys based on the fifth wave of the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) from October 2014 to April 2015. Household members aged 15-64 were included in the analysis. Depression was assessed using the Short Center for Epidemiological Research Depression Scale (CESD). Cognitive function was measured using the Cognitive Status Telephone Interview (TICS). Simple linear regression analysis was performed to examine the association between cognitive function and depression. Results: A total of 10,628 households were included. Most respondents had good cognitive function (61.84%) and no depression (82.19%). A simple linear regression analysis showed that household members with good cognitive functioning had a significantly lower risk of developing depression compared to household members with cognitive decline, he was significantly 1.28 lower. Conclusion: This study found a significant association between cognitive function and depression in the productive-age group. Further research exploring variables related to depression other than cognitive function is recommended. Health care providers should provide education, counselling, and training sessions related to healthy lifestyles and positive mindsets to prevent depression.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2022
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2021
DOI: 10.1016/J.GERINURSE.2021.09.014
Abstract: The caring self-efficacy of direct care workers in residential aged care has been explored in the literature mostly as a predictor rather than the focus of interest. This scoping review aimed to provide an overview of the existing literature on aged care workers' caring self-efficacy and factors that influence it. A systematic search was performed in six electronic databases. All primary studies were included. A total of 41 studies met the inclusion criteria. Caring self-efficacy was most often described by aged care workers as their capacity to deal with difficult situations. The self-efficacy scores of direct care workers were high across studies. Self-efficacy was positively influenced by access to resources, relationships with residents and their families, the support of supervisors and co-workers, job satisfaction, and training opportunities, and negatively affected by work pressure and burnout. Findings indicate possible avenues for intervention to improve direct care workers' self-efficacy in aged care.
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 13-08-2021
DOI: 10.3389/FPSYT.2021.718654
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has imposed psychological distress and fear across the globe however, factors associated with those issues or the ways people cope may vary by country or context. This study aimed to investigate the factors associated with psychological distress, fear, and coping strategies for people living in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted in August-September 2020 using online platforms in Bangladesh. People residing in Bangladesh, aged ≥18 years, who were proficient in English and able to respond to online questionnaire. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale was used to assess the psychological stress. Level of fear was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale, and strategies to cope were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale. Results: Of the 962 participants, half of them were aged between 30 and 59 years. Being born in Bangladesh, having graduate education, perceived distress due to employment change, effect of COVID-19 on financial situation, having multiple comorbidities, and visiting a healthcare provider in the last 4 weeks were associated with higher levels of both psychological distress and fear of COVID-19. Furthermore, higher psychological distress was associated with being a female (AOR 1.81, 95% CI 1.33–2.47, p & 0.001), being a frontline worker (AOR 1.50, 95% CI 1.04–2.15, p & 0.05), having pre-existing psychiatric problems (AOR 4.03, 95% CI 1.19–13.7, p & 0.05), being a smoker (AOR 2.02, 95% CI 1.32–3.09, p & 0.01), providing care to a known/suspected COVID-19 patient (AOR 1.96, 95% CI 1.40–2.72, p & 0.001), having a recent overseas travel history and being in self-quarantine (AOR 4.59, 95% CI 1.23–17.2, p & 0.05), self-isolation without COVID-19 (AOR 2.63, 95% CI 1.68–4.13, p & 0.001) or being COVID-19 positive (AOR 2.53, 95% CI 1.19–5.34, p & 0.05), and having high levels of fear of COVID-19 (AOR 3.27, 95% CI 2.29–4.66, p & 0.001). A higher level of fear was associated with moderate to high levels of psychological distress (AOR 3.29, 95% CI 2.31–4.69, p & 0.001). People with pre-existing mental health problems were less likely to be resilient (AOR 0.25, 95% CI 0.11–0.54, p & 0.01), whereas those with having an income were more likely to be resilient (AOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.02–2.11, p & 0.05). Conclusion: Effective interventions to support the vulnerable groups including improved access to mental health services are of utmost importance during the pandemic.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-04-2023
DOI: 10.3390/HEALTHCARE11081184
Abstract: (1) Background: COVID-19 caused the worst international public health crisis, accompanied by major global economic downturns and mass-scale job losses, which impacted the psychosocial wellbeing of the worldwide population, including Saudi Arabia. Evidence of the high-risk groups impacted by the pandemic has been non-existent in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study examined factors associated with psychosocial distress, fear of COVID-19 and coping strategies among the general population in Saudi Arabia. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in healthcare and community settings in the Saudi Arabia using an anonymous online questionnaire. The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K-10), Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S) and Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS) were used to assess psychological distress, fear and coping strategies, respectively. Multivariate logistic regressions were used, and an Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) with 95% Confidence Intervals (CIs) was reported. (3) Results: Among 803 participants, 70% (n = 556) were females, and the median age was 27 years 35% (n = 278) were frontline or essential service workers and 24% (n = 195) reported comorbid conditions including mental health illness. Of the respondents, 175 (21.8%) and 207 (25.8%) reported high and very high psychological distress, respectively. Factors associated with moderate to high levels of psychological distress were: youth, females, non-Saudi nationals, those experiencing a change in employment or a negative financial impact, having comorbidities, and current smoking. A high level of fear was reported by 89 participants (11.1%), and this was associated with being ex-smokers (3.72, 1.14–12.14, 0.029) and changes in employment (3.42, 1.91–6.11, 0.000). A high resilience was reported by 115 participants (14.3%), and 333 participants (41.5%) had medium resilience. Financial impact and contact with known/suspected cases (1.63, 1.12–2.38, 0.011) were associated with low, medium, to high resilient coping. (4) Conclusions: People in Saudi Arabia were at a higher risk of psychosocial distress along with medium-high resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, warranting urgent attention from healthcare providers and policymakers to provide specific mental health support strategies for their current wellbeing and to avoid a post-pandemic mental health crisis.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2014
DOI: 10.2147/IJGM.S54230
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 08-04-2021
DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0250012
Abstract: High maternal mortality is still a significant public health challenge in many countries of the South-Asian region. The majority of maternal deaths occur due to pregnancy and delivery-related complications, which can mostly be prevented by safe facility delivery. Due to the paucity of existing evidence, our study aimed to examine the factors associated with place of delivery, including women’s preferences for such in three selected South-Asian countries. We extracted data from the most recent demographic and health surveys (DHS) conducted in Bangladesh (2014), Nepal (2016), and Pakistan (2017–18) and analyzed to identify the association between the outcome variable and socio-demographic characteristics. A total of 16,429 women from Bangladesh (4278 mean age 24.57 years), Nepal (3962 mean age 26.35 years), and Pakistan (8189 mean age 29.57 years) were included in this study. Following descriptive analyses, bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were conducted. Overall, the prevalence of facility-based delivery was 40%, 62%, and 69% in Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan, respectively. Inequity in utilizing facility-based delivery was observed for women in the highest wealth quintile. Participants from Urban areas, educated, middle and upper household economic status, and with high antenatal care (ANC) visits were significantly associated with facility-based delivery in all three countries. Interestingly, watching TV was also found as a strong determinant for facility-based delivery in Bangladesh (aOR = 1.31, 95% CI:1.09–1.56, P = 0.003), Nepal (aOR = 1.42, 95% CI:1.20–1.67, P .001) and Pakistan (aOR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.03–1.32, P = 0.013). Higher education of husband was a significant predictor for facility delivery in Bangladesh (aOR = 1.73, 95% CI:1.27–2.35, P = 0.001) and Pakistan (aOR = 1.19, 95% CI: 0.99–1.43, P = 0.065) husband’s occupation was also a significant factor in Bangladesh (aOR = 1.30, 95% CI:1.04–1.61, P = 0.020) and Nepal (aOR = 1.26, 95% CI:1.01–1.58, P = 0.041). Our findings suggest that the educational status of both women and their husbands, household economic situation, and the number of ANC visits influenced the place of delivery. There is an urgent need to promote facility delivery by building more birthing facilities, training and deployment of skilled birth attendants in rural and hard-to-reach areas, ensuring compulsory female education for all women, encouraging more ANC visits, and providing financial incentives for facility deliveries. There is a need to promote facility delivery by encouraging health facility visits through utilizing social networks and continuing mass media c aigns. Ensuring adequate Government funding for free maternal and newborn health care and local community involvement is crucial for reducing maternal and neonatal mortality and achieving sustainable development goals in this region.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-10-2021
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.AUEC.2018.10.004
Abstract: The level of workplace violence in emergency departments worldwide has reached an alarming level. Substance abuse is thought to play a major part in the escalation of aggressive and violent behaviour and is suspected to be responsible for the majority of violent escalations in the emergency department. The aim of this scoping review was (1) to investigate the incidence of workplace violence in the emergency department, their association to substance abuse and (2) to identify factors associated with workplace violence such as perpetrator characteristics and environmental factors. Scoping review. Literature search was conducted using electronic databases. The review of the literature extended from 1997 to 2018 to provide an understanding of the topic of interest. The search initially revealed 1901 articles. After comprehensive examination of the abstracts and removal of duplicates this was reduced to 14. Incidence of workplace violence accounted for 5.5 per 1000 or less of emergency department presentations. Substance abuse was closely related to workplace violence in the extracted literature. Several themes were identified in the context of substance abuse and workplace violence in the emergency department, including perpetrator characteristics, physical and psychosocial factors. Substance abuse was found to be a primary factor linked to workplace violence in the emergency departments. Interventional studies are warranted, focusing on prevention of workplace violence and management of abuse and intoxicated patients in the emergency department.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.AUEC.2019.01.006
Abstract: Emergency Departments (ED) have been identified as high-risk areas for patient related violence (PRV). The aim of the present study was to analyse recorded events of violence in a regional Victorian hospital ED, and examine the association these events had with substance abuse. A retrospective cohort study was undertaken to establish the incidence of PRV. Data were obtained from the hospital's incident management system, RiskMan, over a five and a half year period for all violent events categorised as Code Grey (CG) and Code Black (CB). The Haddon Matrix attached to the in idual incident record was also reviewed. A total of 548 violent events were analysed. The incident rate was 3.4 per 1000 ED presentations. Intoxication was the primary reason for violent escalations. There was no association between the frequency of CG events and the day of the week, month of admission, or shift of the day. Intoxicated men (110, 64.3%) were more likely to be the instigator of a violent event compared with intoxicated females (61, 35.7%) (OR 1.5, 95% CI: 1.19-2.02, p<0.001). A form of restraint, chemical, physical or both, was used in the majority of violent events (376, 68.6%). This study demonstrated an increasing frequency of violent events in the regional ED. Rates of PRV were comparable to those reported in metropolitan hospitals. Intoxication was the most frequently observed underlying factor for PRV. Regional hospitals are in need of additional resources to instigate policies and procedures that will maximise patient and staff safety.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.AUCC.2015.01.004
Abstract: Death from acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is avoidable with early reperfusion therapy, however, evidence suggests inequity in women's ACS treatment within a number of international healthcare systems, when compared to men's. Research indicates mortality rates are higher in some age groups of women when compared to men for the sub-group of ACS known as ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). To determine whether patient sex was associated with patterns of reperfusion treatment variation or increased inhospital mortality in patients with STEMI. We undertook retrospective analyses on a government database for patients admitted to Victorian public hospitals with STEMI. Patients were categorised into two age groups: 18-64 and 65-84 years (inclusive), to determine whether patient sex and these age groups influenced treatment from 2005 to 2008 and mortality from 2005 to 2010. Both younger and older women received less frequent angioplasty with stent and more often received no reperfusion treatment than men in corresponding younger and older age groups (p=0.006 and p<0.001, respectively). Overall, women in both age groups were more likely to die inhospital than men from equivalent age groups with STEMI (p<0.001, both groups). Proportionately, both younger and older women received less interventional reperfusion therapy for STEMI than their male cohorts, and died more often during admission than men. Further research needs to be undertaken to verify the findings and causes, and guide future research to ensure application of evidence to treatment in patients with STEMI.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 2012
Abstract: We investigated a cluster of patients with encephalitis in the Manikgonj and Rajbari Districts of Bangladesh in February 2008 to determine the etiology and risk factors for disease. We classified persons as confirmed Nipah cases by the presence of immunoglobulin M antibodies against Nipah virus (NiV), or by the presence of NiV RNA or by isolation of NiV from cerebrospinal fluid or throat swabs who had onset of symptoms between February 6 and March 10, 2008. We classified persons as probable cases if they reported fever with convulsions or altered mental status, who resided in the outbreak areas during that period, and who died before serum s les were collected. For the case-control study, we compared both confirmed and probable Nipah case-patients to controls, who were free from illness during the reference period. We used motion-sensor-infrared cameras to observe bat's contact of date palm sap. We identified four confirmed and six probable case-patients, nine (90%) of whom died. The median age of the cases was 10 years eight were males. The outbreak occurred simultaneously in two communities that were 44 km apart and separated by a river. Drinking raw date palm sap 2-12 days before illness onset was the only risk factor most strongly associated with the illness (adjusted odds ratio 25, 95% confidence intervals 3.3-∞, p<0.001). Case-patients reported no history of physical contact with bats, though community members often reported seeing bats. Infrared camera photographs showed that Pteropus bats frequently visited date palm trees in those communities where sap was collected for human consumption. This is the second Nipah outbreak in Bangladesh where date palm sap has been implicated as the vehicle of transmission. Fresh date palm sap should not be drunk, unless effective steps have been taken to prevent bat access to the sap during collection.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2021
Location: Bangladesh
Location: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
No related grants have been discovered for Muhammad Aziz Rahman.