ORCID Profile
0000-0001-5284-3550
Current Organisations
University of Newcastle Australia
,
Southern Cross University
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Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 16-04-2009
Publisher: Frontiers Media SA
Date: 22-05-2017
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-08-2023
DOI: 10.1007/S10826-023-02651-8
Abstract: The Healthy Dads, Healthy Kids (HDHK) program was designed to help fathers with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m 2 to lose weight and positively influence physical activity and dietary behaviors of their children. There is a need to better understand the broader impact of father-focused, healthy lifestyle programs from the perspectives of other family members. This qualitative study explored the impact of a HDHK by gathering insights from the family unit (fathers, mothers artners and children). Fathers and children who participated in the HDHK dissemination trial from the Maitland local government area (New South Wales, Australia) ( n = 33) and all mothers artners of participating HDHK were invited to take part in this qualitative study. Eleven focus groups were undertaken with 25 fathers (41.9 ± 6.3 years, 32.4 ± 5.1 kg/m 2 ), 15 mothers artners’ (38.1 ± 6.6 years), and 41 children (51% male, 8.2 ± 2.1 years). Audio recordings were transcribed and analyzed by an independent researcher using a standard general inductive approach to qualitative analysis with thematic analysis applied. Three key themes emerged, demonstrating several personal and family program impacts. These included a positive impact on: (i) the father-child relationship, (ii) new family habits (e.g., lifestyle changes within the family unit) and (iii) fathers’ involvement and parenting practices (e.g., increase in fathers’ household responsibilities). Improving the knowledge and skills of fathers and children through evidence-based strategies may be a useful approach to strengthen their relationship, enhance parenting strategies, and optimize health behaviors. Notably, findings showed the changes made by the fathers and children positively impacted the wider family unit.
Publisher: Modestum Publishing Ltd
Date: 03-04-2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 10-03-2018
Abstract: Adolescent boys living in disadvantaged communities are considered a vulnerable group at risk for developing obesity and associated health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension and type-2 diabetes. While short-term health promotion programmes often produce effective results during the implementation of the intervention, according to self-determination theory (SDT), changes in autonomous motivation are required if programmes are to have sustained effects on health behaviours. This article describes the ATLAS (Active Teen Leaders Avoiding Screen-time) programme, based on SDT, which was developed to engage adolescent boys from low socio-economic backgrounds in physical activity, reduce their consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and limit recreational screen-time. The article reports a post-hoc analysis of the perceptions and experiences of a representative group of ATLAS participants to investigate whether the boys’ general impressions of the programme reflected the need-supportive teaching strategies on which the programme was based. The results of this analysis suggested that students’ comments about increased feelings of autonomy, competence and relatedness were often linked to corresponding need-supportive teacher behaviours. The findings suggest that embedding health promotion programmes in a need-supportive context can help to foster the motivation and self-regulation that is required to maintain newly adopted healthier behaviours.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.JAAD.2013.11.009
Abstract: Cutaneous basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) have poorer outcomes if treated when large. We sought to estimate the growth rate of BCCs and SCCs and examine the relationship of personal, pathway, and cancer factors with cancer size (diameter). We surveyed patients, pathology, and treatment for invasive BCCs and SCCs in 1 Australian region in 2000 through 2001. BCC size increased with increasing time since first noticed. Relative to mean size at 0 to 2 months, the mean size ratio was 1.10 at 2 to 8 months and increased steadily to 1.81 at 5 to 10 years (P < .001). Few BCCs were untreated beyond 10 years. There was no consistent evidence that SCC size increased with increasing time. Larger BCCs were independently associated with older age, male sex, no skin checks by a physician, aggressive tumor type, ulceration and lesion-associated scar tissue, and larger SCCs with male sex, skin checks by a physician every 1 to 3 months, and location on limbs. Patient recall of dates and lack of thickness for SCCs are limitations. Earlier diagnosis of BCCs, perhaps through skin checks by a physician, may reduce their size and improve outcome. SCC size did not evidently increase with time.
Publisher: Briefland
Date: 03-01-2016
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 02-10-2020
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 10-11-2022
DOI: 10.1080/19338244.2020.1841722
Abstract: This study explores patients' experiences of how antidepressant medication transition events (ceasing, changing or reducing) affect employment and workplace functioning. An anonymous online survey was conducted with adults who had experienced antidepressant medication transition events (AMTEs). Data were analyzed using a hybrid inductive and deductive thematic analysis approach. While a majority of participants perceived many positive impacts of antidepressant medication on their workplace functioning, considerable negative effects during AMTEs were reported. Participants provided practical solutions to assist employers, policy and clinicians. Significant and detrimental impact of antidepressant medication changes occurred in the workplace. There is an urgent need to raise awareness of the vulnerability of people during AMTEs and to develop educational and supportive resources to assist clinicians and practitioners to support people during this vulnerable time.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 09-2008
Abstract: Objective The aim of the current study was to examine the perceptions of classroom teachers regarding the benefits and outcomes of their PE programs. Design Cross-sectional. Setting Thirty eight randomly selected primary schools in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Method A mixed-mode methodology was utilized, incorporating semi-structured interviews of 31 classroom teachers and questionnaire responses of 189 teachers from 38 randomly selected schools in NSW. Results Results indicated teachers believed PE: (1) provides children with opportunities to improve fitness and be active to counter societal trends towards obesity and increased sedentary behaviours (2) impacts positively on learning and behaviour in the classroom (3) helps children to improve social skills and allows some children an opportunity to experience success in a unique learning environment. The teachers in the current study believed their programmes were only somewhat successful in achieving outcomes relating to physical activity, self-esteem, motor skills and fitness. Conclusion Teachers believed PE was beneficial as a vehicle for physical activity and positively impacted on learning and behaviour in the classroom. However, the reasons provided for including PE in their daily programmes were reflected in the delivery of programmes of little educational value.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-12-2021
Abstract: Despite increasing rates of co-morbid depression and obesity, few interventions target both conditions simultaneously, particularly in men. The SHED-IT: Recharge trial, conducted in 125 men with depressive symptoms and overweight or obesity, tested the efficacy of a gender-tailored eHealth program with integrated mental health support. The aims of this study were to examine the perceptions of men who received the SHED-IT: Recharge intervention in relation to recruitment, satisfaction with the program, and suggestions to improve the program. In idual semi-structured interviews were conducted in a random sub-s le, stratified by baseline depression and weight status (n = 19, mean (SD) age 49.6 years (11.6), PHQ−9 score 9.0 (3.7), BMI 32.5 kg/m2 (4.6)). Transcripts were analyzed using an inductive process by an independent qualitative researcher. Four themes emerged, namely, (i) specific circumstances determined men’s motivation to enroll, (ii) unique opportunity to implement sustained physical and mental health changes compared to previous experiences, (iii) salience of the program elements, and (iv) further opportunities that build accountability could help maintain focus. Gender-tailored, self-directed lifestyle interventions incorporating mental health support are acceptable and satisfying for men experiencing depressive symptoms. These findings provide important insights for future self-guided lifestyle interventions for men with poor physical and mental health.
Publisher: Human Kinetics
Date: 03-2022
Abstract: Background: The COVID-19 global pandemic greatly impacted lifestyles and physical activity routines. This study explored how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted participant experience and motivation in ecofit , a large, community-based, multicomponent intervention that supports aerobic and resistance-based physical activity using publicly available, outdoor exercise facilities and smartphone technology. Methods: Fifteen participants from the intervention arm of the study were interviewed. Audiotaped telephone interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed by a researcher uninvolved in the intervention. Through an inductive thematic approach, data were coded and organized into themes. The quantitative measure of participant smartphone application engagement was used as a classification during analysis. Results: Several themes representing participants’ experience of the COVID-19 pandemic in their engagement with ecofit , overall physical activity levels, motivation to exercise, and perception and usage of outdoor gym facilities were identified. Conclusion: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on clinical trials is beginning to emerge. Although the present study showed a mixed impact of the pandemic on participation in the ecofit program, the overall implications for the intervention are yet to be determined. Interestingly, although a large review found a negative impact of COVID-19 on physical activity, this s le reported an overall increase.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2021
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-2001
Publisher: Rural and Remote Health
Date: 20-06-2013
DOI: 10.22605/RRH2369
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 10-2021
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-11-2017
Abstract: To explore young people’s perceptions of pedometers and investigate behaviours exhibited while being monitored. Qualitative design using six focus groups with participants (mean age 14.7 years). Study participants ( n = 24) were randomly selected from a previous study of 123 young people aged 14–15 years from three secondary schools in New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Participants wore pedometers (Yamax CW700) and accelerometers (ActiGraph GT3X+) simultaneously for 7 days. Accelerometer output was used to categorise participants into one of six focus groups (three boys groups and three girls groups): (1) low active ( minutes moderate to vigorous physical activity [MVPA]/day), (2) medium active (30–60 minutes MVPA/day), and (3) high active (≥60 minutes MVPA/day). Participants were questioned on their perceptions of the monitoring process and the behaviours that they exhibited while wearing pedometers. A hybrid approach to data analysis identified key concepts, which were thematically analysed. The two main themes identified were (1) participants’ perceptions of the monitoring process and (2) behaviour exhibited while being monitored. Overall, participants’ attitudes towards objective monitoring were positive. A large proportion reported changing their levels of physical activity during the monitoring process, and 87.5% of focus group participants reported shaking their pedometers to increase their step counts. The medium and high active groups reported changing their activity patterns more than the low active groups. Our findings are consistent with previous quantitative studies that suggest reactivity and t ering are commonplace among young people. Pedometers may have more utility as an intervention strategy for increasing activity rather than as a method for assessing habitual activity levels.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-03-2018
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2010
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2008
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.EJCA.2008.09.029
Abstract: To determine the prevalence and predictors of burnout and psychiatric morbidity in the Australian oncology workforce. A cross-sectional nationwide survey was conducted with 740 (56%) members of the Clinical Oncological Society of Australia. High levels of [emotional] exhaustion were present in 32.8% of participants with direct patient contact (DPC), and 26.7% of those with no direct patient contact (NDPC). The main predictors of burnout were dissatisfaction with leave arrangements for the purpose of preventing or recovering from burnout, increased hours of patient contact, and perceived need for communication skill training. Australian cancer care workers experience considerable occupational distress whilst possessing high levels of personal accomplishment. Regular screening for burnout is recommended with particular focus on those at-risk staff who have a substantial amount of patient contact, neglect to take adequate leave, or who have not attended communication skills training.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 04-04-2023
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 11-2007
Publisher: AMPCo
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.5694/J.1326-5377.2008.TB02211.X
Abstract: To determine what aspects of communicating and consulting with cancer patients are viewed as difficult and stressful by cancer specialists in Australia. Anonymous, cross-sectional, Internet-based survey completed by 134 cancer specialists between June and August 2007. Participants, who were all members of the Clinical Oncological Society of Australia, included oncologists and palliative care specialists. Degree of difficulty perceived for various consultation tasks level of stress reported during various practice-related situations. Doctors had the most difficulty discussing high-cost drugs with patients they knew could not afford them, followed by topics relating to treatment failure. They had the least difficulty telling patients they had cancer or being honest about prognosis. The most stressful practice situations included having incomplete patient information to conduct the consultation and having a long line of patients waiting for a consultation. At least 62% of respondents reported experiencing some degree of stress in all the practice situations presented. There were differences in difficulty and stress experienced as a function of the doctor's sex, age and clinical experience. Targeted, evidence-based guidelines and communication courses are required to better equip cancer specialists for providing non-directive advice about unsubsidised high-cost drugs and for offering different forms of hope in the context of treatment failure. Implementing small organisational changes - such as reducing interruptions during consultations and informing patients of the duration of their allocated consultation - may also help reduce stressful practice situations.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-2007
DOI: 10.5694/J.1326-5377.2007.TB01110.X
Abstract: To investigate the effectiveness of an educational Quality Use of Medicines program, delivered at the level of general practice, on medicines use, falls and quality of life in people aged > or = 65 years. Cluster randomised controlled trial conducted in 2002. General practices in the Hunter Region, New South Wales, Australia. Twenty general practitioners recruited 849 patients to participate in the study. Education (academic detailing, provision of prescribing information and feedback) medication risk assessment facilitation of medication review financial incentives. a composite score reflecting use of benzodiazepines, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and thiazide diuretics secondary measures: use of medication reviews, occurrence of falls, quality of life (as assessed by SF-12 and EQ-5D survey scores. Compared with the control group, participants in the intervention group had increased odds of having an improved medication use composite score (odds ratio [OR], 1.86 95% CI, 1.21-2.85) at 4-month follow-up but not at 12 months. At 4-month follow-up, the intervention group had reduced odds of using NSAIDs (OR, 0.62 95% CI, 0.39-0.99) and showed a non-significant reduction in use of benzodiazepines (OR, 0.51 95% CI, 0.20-1.30) and thiazide diuretics (OR, 0.70 95% CI, 0.48-1.01). Changes in drug use were not significant at 12-month follow-up. At 12 months, intervention-group participants had lower adjusted ORs (AORs) for having a fall (AOR, 0.61 95% CI, 0.41-0.91), injury (AOR, 0.56 95% CI, 0.32-0.96), and injury requiring medical attention (AOR, 0.46 95% CI, 0.30-0.70). Quality-of-life scores were unaffected by the intervention. Education and systems for medication review conducted by GPs can be used to improve use of medicines. These interventions are associated with a reduction in falls among older people, without adverse effects on quality of life.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-2008
DOI: 10.1080/02701367.2008.10599517
Abstract: A major aim of the current study was to determine what classroom teachers perceived to be the greatest barriers affecting their capacity to deliver successful physical education (PE) programs. An additional aim was to examine the impact of these barriers on the type and quality of PE programs delivered. This study applied a mixed-mode design involving data source triangulation using semistructured interviews with classroom teachers (n = 31) and teacher-completed questionnaires (n = 189) from a random s le of 38 schools. Results identified the key factors inhibiting PE teachers, which were categorized as teacher-related or institutional. Interestingly, the five greatest barriers were defined as institutional or out of the teacher's control. The major adverse effects of these barriers were evident in reduced time spent teaching PE and delivering PE lessons of questionable quality.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 21-10-2021
DOI: 10.1186/S12913-021-07126-4
Abstract: People with a mental health condition experience a greater prevalence of chronic disease and reduced life expectancy compared to the general population. Modifiable health risk behaviours, such as physical inactivity and poor nutrition are major contributing factors. Population-level health coaching delivering behavioural change support via telephone for healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management is an opportunity utilised by this group to support improvement in healthy lifestyle behaviours. Health coaches offer a valuable perspective into the provision of services to this high-risk group. This study aims to qualitatively explore coaches’ experiences in providing support to these participants, consider factors which may contribute to engagement and outcomes and potentially inform future service improvement. A qualitative study design was employed involving semi-structured telephone interviews with six coaches employed in a telephone-based behaviour change support service in New South Wales, Australia, between April and July 2019. Interview data was analysed using an inductive thematic analysis. Coaches believed that the service was of benefit to people with a mental health condition, however making changes to health risk behaviours was potentially more difficult for this group of service users. Coaches indicated that in supporting this group there was a greater focus on building confidence and readiness to change. They noted that improvement in mental health as a result of physical health changes was an additional ‘measure of success’ of particular relevance. Coaches expressed a desire to receive more mental health training to better deliver coaching to participants with a mental health condition. Program variables such as limited call length were posed as possible barriers to care. Further training and additional support for coaches, in additon to considering variations to aspects of service delivery may assist in improving engagement and outcomes for participants with mental health conditions. Examining mental health consumers’ experiences when engaging with telephone coaching services would be an important area to address in further research.
No related grants have been discovered for Vibeke Hansen.