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In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Public Health and Health Services | Health Promotion | Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology | Health Promotion | Public Policy | Marketing | Preventive Medicine | Advertising And Public Relations | Decision Making
Nutrition | Behaviour and Health | Marketing | Preventive Medicine | Behaviour and health |
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
DOI: 10.1093/AJCN/NQY248
Abstract: As a public health intervention, front-of-pack labels (FoPLs) have the potential to reach large numbers of consumers and promote healthier food choices. Of the different FoPLs, those that summarize a product's overall nutritional profile tend to be most effective in guiding healthier choices. However, information is lacking as to whether FoPLs are as effective when nutrient or health claims also appear on-pack. The aim of this study was to examine how the choice of foods of varying levels of healthfulness (less healthy, moderately healthy, and healthier) is affected by the appearance of various FoPLs (Daily Intake Guide, Multiple Traffic Lights, Health Star Rating) when shown in combination with different claim conditions (no claim, nutrient claim, general-level health claim, and higher-level health claim). Adults and children (n = 2069) completed a discrete-choice experiment online. Respondents were shown 8 choice sets, each containing 4 alternatives of the same food type (cookies, cornflakes, pizza, or yogurt) of varying levels of healthfulness and were asked which product they would likely purchase (or they could select none). Respondents were randomly assigned to view 1 of the 3 FoPLs across all choice sets. Claim type and healthfulness varied within choice sets in accordance with a D-efficient design. The probability of choosing a healthy product and avoiding an unhealthy product was greatest when only an FoPL (especially the Health Star Rating) appeared on-pack. The addition of a nutrient or health claim did not affect the likelihood of picking healthier products but did increase the likelihood of selecting less healthy foods across all FoPL conditions. FoPLs are most effective in helping consumers make better food choices when nutrient and health claims are not present. Policies are required to control how nutrient and health claims are applied to less healthy foods. This trial was registered as ACTRN12617000015347 (www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Resgistration/TrialReview.aspx?id=372055&isReview=true).
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2022
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2021-055499
Abstract: To investigate reciprocal temporal relationships between tobacco consumption and psychological disorders for youth. Design: Review Five databases (PubMed, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL and PsycINFO) on 26 September 2019 and updated on 11 May 2021, indexing tobacco, mental illness and longitudinal. Study selection: Methods used consensus and multiple reviewers. Cohort studies (n=49) examining tobacco and selected psychological disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, psychosis, borderline personality disorder) among youth, and systematic reviews (n=4) of these relationships met inclusion criteria. Effect of tobacco on psychological disorders and effect of psychological disorders on tobacco. Independent extraction by the first author and checked by final author. Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools were used for all studies. Included studies had moderate-to-high appraisal scores. We synthesised findings using vote counting for effect direction and descriptive data. Fifty-three studies were included in the review. Thirteen of 15 studies showed a positive effect direction of tobacco on depression (p .001). Six of 12 studies showed a positive effect direction of depression on tobacco (p=0.016). Six of eight studies showed a positive effect direction of tobacco on anxiety (p=0.016). Eleven of 18 studies showed a positive effect direction of anxiety on tobacco (p=0.003). No effect between tobacco and bipolar, or tobacco and psychosis was found. No studies examined tobacco and borderline personality disorder. Reciprocal relationships existed between tobacco and both depression and anxiety for youth, though causality is unconfirmed. No positive effect direction was found between tobacco and psychosis, perhaps because nicotine has conflicting effects on psychosis. For other relationships examined, evidence was weak because of low number of studies. More research to inform prevention and early intervention is needed. CRD42020150457.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 26-12-2021
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.13393
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 09-05-2018
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 05-01-2018
DOI: 10.1080/17461391.2017.1418026
Abstract: The aims of this study were to determine the variability of weekly match and training loads in adolescent rugby union players across a competitive season, and to investigate the effect of match frequency on load distribution across different activities. Internal match and training load data (i.e. session-rating of perceived exertion (sRPE)) were collected daily from 20 players from a regional academy across a 14-week season. Data were analysed using a mixed-effects linear model, and variability was reported as a coefficient of variation (CV). Differences between 0-, 1-, 2-, and 3-match weeks were assessed using Cohen's d effect sizes and magnitude-based inferences. Mean weekly total match and training sRPE load was 1425 ± 545 arbitrary units (AU), with a between-player CV of 10 ± 6% and within-player CV of 37 ± 3%. Mean week-to-week change in total sRPE load was 497 ± 423 AU (35%), and 40% of weekly observations were outside the suggested acute:chronic workload ratio 'safe zone'. Total weekly sRPE loads increased substantially with match frequency (1210 ± 571, 1511 ± 489, and 1692 ± 517 AU, for 0-, 1-, and 2-match weeks, respectively), except for 3-match weeks (1520 ± 442 AU). Weekly match and training loads were highly variable for adolescent rugby players during the competitive season, and match frequency has a substantial effect on the distribution of loads. Therefore, match and training loads should be coordinated, monitored, and managed on an in idual basis to protect players from negative training consequences, and to promote long-term athlete development.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-06-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2016
DOI: 10.1111/JPC.13148
Abstract: Previous research has identified convenience, enjoyment, value for money and perceived goodness as primary dimensions of parents' attitudes to foods and beverages. The aim of the present study was to examine the factors associated with parents' scores on each of these attitudinal dimensions to identify key issues for future interventions designed to improve parents' food provision behaviours and children's diets. A s le of 1302 Australian parents of children aged 8 to 14 years completed an online survey relating to their food-related beliefs. Linear regression analyses were undertaken to examine factors associated with parents' attitudes to soft drinks and energy-dense nutrient-poor foods. Consistent factors were identified for both energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods and soft drinks, indicating that similar approaches could be adopted in interventions for both product categories. The primary factors were social norms, child pestering, television viewing and exposure to food advertising. Food advertising represents a common link between the primary factors, indicating that it constitutes a critical component of future interventions designed to modify parents' attitudes to unhealthy food products and to reduce the frequency with which these foods are consumed by children.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 18-03-2021
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12775
Abstract: Policy makers benefit from insight into consumer perceptions of potential sugary drink policy measures. Adolescents are among the highest consumers in Australia, yet their perceptions are unknown. To determine adolescents' perceptions of potential policies aimed at reducing sugary drink consumption and explore variation in perceptions. Data were collected via a nationally representative survey of Australian secondary school students (aged 12‐17) using a stratified two‐stage probability design (n = 9102). Survey questions assessed receptiveness to five policy options, sugary drink consumption, perceptions of health effects and demographics. Low proportions (13%‐29%) were somewhat/strongly against policy options, 35% to 45% were neutral, and 27% to 52% were somewhat/strongly in favour. Highest support was observed for text warning labels on sugary drinks (52%), followed by tax with investment in healthy weight programmes (43%), standalone tax (36%), restricting school sales (30%) and restricting advertising to children (27%). Sex, sugary drink consumption and perceptions were significantly associated with most assessed policy options in bivariate analyses ( P .01). Significant associations between sex and consumption with selected policy options persisted in adjusted multilevel models. Opposition towards policy options was low overall and neutrality was common. This creates opportunity for early intervention to increase public support for addressing specific health issues.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-027962
Abstract: To assess public support for 10 potential policy initiatives to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption. A 2014 historical data set, which employed a face-to-face survey in one Australian state (study 1), provided the basis for comparison with our 2017 nationally representative, cross-sectional, computer-assisted telephone interviewing population survey (study 2). Study 1: South Australians, 15+ years (n=2732) study 2: Australians, 18+ years (n=3430). Primary outcome measures: levels of support for SSB-specific policy initiatives. For the 2017 national study (study 2), demographic characteristics, body mass index, knowledge of potential harms caused by consuming SSBs and SSB consumption were included in multivariable regression analyses. In 2017, all 10 potential policy initiatives received majority support (60%–88% either ‘somewhat’ or ‘strongly’ in favour). Initiatives with educative elements or focused on children received high support ( %), with highest support observed for text warning labels on drink containers (88%) and government c aigns warning of adverse health effects (87%). Higher support was observed for SSB tax paired with using funds for obesity prevention (77%) than a stand-alone tax (60%). Support for policy initiatives was generally greater among those who believed SSB daily consumption could cause health problems in adults (4%–18% absolute difference) and/or in children (8%–26% absolute difference) and lower among SSB high consumers (7+ drinks per week 9%–29% absolute difference). State-specific data comparison indicated increased support from 2014 to 2017 for taxation (42%vs55% χ 2 =15.7, p .001) and graphic health warnings (52%vs68% χ 2 =23.4. p .001). There is strong public support for government action, particularly regulatory and educational interventions, to reduce SSB consumption, which appears to have increased since 2014. The findings suggest that framing policies as protecting children, presenting taxation of SSBs in conjunction with other obesity prevention initiatives and education focused on the harms associated with SSB consumption will increase support.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-023485
Abstract: In 2012, Australia was the first country in the world to introduce plain or standardised tobacco packaging, coupled with larger graphic health warnings. This policy was fiercely opposed by industry. Media coverage can be an influential contributor to public debate, and both public health advocates and industry sought media coverage for their positions. The aim of this study was to measure the print media coverage of Australian’s plain packaging laws, from inception to roll-out, in major Australian newspapers. This study monitored mainstream Australian print media (17 newspapers) coverage of the plain packaging policy debate and implementation, over a 7-year period from January 2008 to December 2014. Articles (n=701) were coded for article type, opinion slant and topic(s). Content analysis. Coverage of plain packaging was low during preimplementation phase (2008–2009), increasing sharply in the lead into legislative processes and diminished substantially after implementation. Articles covered policy rationale, policy progress and industry arguments. Of the news articles, 96% were neutrally framed. Of the editorials, 55% were supportive, 28% were opposing, 12% were neutral and 5% were mixed. Protracted political debate, reflected in the media, led to an implementation delay of plain packaging. While Australian media provided comprehensive coverage of industry arguments, news coverage was largely neutral, whereas editorials were mostly supportive or neutral of the policy. Countries seeking to implement plain packaging of tobacco should not be deterred by the volume of news coverage, but should actively promote the evidence for plain packaging in the media to counteract the arguments of the tobacco industry.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-2021
DOI: 10.2147/CMAR.S309551
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Abstract: To examine the barriers and facilitators among health professionals to providing referrals to Quitline for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients who smoke. A brief online survey, based on the Theoretical Domains Framework, was completed by 34 health professionals who work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Respondents who frequently made referrals had higher domain scores than less frequent referrers for 'Skills and knowledge' (M=4.44 SD=0.39 vs. M=4.09 SD=0.47, p<0.05) and 'beliefs about capabilities' (M=4.33 SD=0.44 vs. M=3.88 SD=0.42, p<0.01). Barriers to providing referrals to Quitline were lack of client access to a phone, cost of a phone call, preference for face-to-face interventions, and low client motivation to quit. Health professionals working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients should be supported to build their skills and confidence to provide referrals to Quitline and other brief cessation interventions. Building capacity for face-to-face support locally would be beneficial where phone support is not preferable. Implications for public health: Engaging with health professionals who work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to increase referrals to Quitline is strategic as it builds on their existing capacity to provide cessation support.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.EATBEH.2016.12.006
Abstract: Little is known about the complex combination of factors influencing the extent to which children request unhealthy foods from their parents. The aim of this study was to develop a comprehensive model of influencing factors to provide insight into potential methods of reducing these requests. A web panel provider was used to administer a national online survey to a s le of 1302 Australian parent-child dyads (total s le n=2604). Initial univariate analyses identified potential predictors of children's requests for and consumption of unhealthy foods. The identified variables were subsequently incorporated into a path analysis model that included both parents' and children's reports of children's requests for unhealthy foods. The resulting model accounted for a substantial 31% of the variance in parent-reported food request frequency and 27% of the variance in child-reported request frequency. The variable demonstrating the strongest direct association with both parents' and children's reports of request frequency was the frequency of children's current intake of unhealthy foods. Parents' and children's exposure to food advertising and television viewing time were also positively associated with children's unhealthy food requests. The results highlight the need to break the habitual provision of unhealthy foods to avoid a vicious cycle of requests resulting in consumption.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 20-02-2013
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2012-050740
Abstract: We sought to determine the relative frequency and nature of personal display of cigarette packs by smokers in two Australian cities where 30% front-of-pack and 90% back-of-pack health warnings have been used since 2006 and comprehensive tobacco marketing restrictions apply. An observational study counted patrons, active smokers and tobacco packs at cafés, restaurants and bars with outdoor seating. Pack orientation and use of cigarette cases were also noted. Overall, 18954 patrons, 1576 active smokers and 2153 packs were observed, meaning that one out of every 12.0 patrons was actively smoking, and one of every 8.8 patrons displayed a pack. Packs were more frequently observed in lower socio-economic neighbourhoods, reflecting the higher prevalence of smoking in those regions. Packs were displayed less often in venues where children were present, suggesting a greater tendency not to smoke around children. Most packs (81.4%) were oriented face-up, permitting prominent brand display. Only 1.5% of observed packs were cigarette cases, and 4.2% of packs were concealed by another item, such as a phone or wallet. Tobacco packs are frequently seen on table-tops in café strips, providing many opportunities for other patrons and passers-by to be incidentally exposed to cigarette brand names and imagery. Use of cigarette cases is rare, suggesting that smokers eventually habituate to pictorial warnings on branded packs and/or find repeated decanting of each newly purchased branded pack into a case to be inconvenient.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 25-02-2014
DOI: 10.1111/ADD.12466
Abstract: We tested whether prevalence of cigarette pack display and smoking at outdoor venues and pack orientation changed following the introduction of plain packaging and larger pictorial health warnings in Australia. Between October and April 2011-12 (pre-plain packaging, pre-PP) and 2012-13 (post-plain packaging, post-PP), we counted patrons, smokers and tobacco packs at cafés, restaurants and bars with outdoor seating. Pack type (fully branded, plain or unknown) and orientation were noted. Rates of pack display, smoking and pack orientation were analysed using multi-level Poisson regression. Pack display declined by 15% [adjusted incident rate ratio (IRR) = 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.79-0.91, P < 0.001], driven by a 23% decline in active smoking (IRR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.71-0.84, P < 0.001) between phases. The decline in pack display coincided with the full implementation of plain packaging from December 2012, was stronger in venues with children present and was limited to mid and high socio-economic status (SES) areas. The proportion of packs orientated face-up declined from 85.4% of fully branded packs pre-PP to 73.6% of plain packs post-PP (IRR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.79-0.95, P = 0.002). Alternatively, the proportions concealed by telephones, wallets or other items (4.4% of fully branded packs pre-PP and 9.5% of plain packs post-PP IRR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.72-3.17, P < 0.001) and in an external case (1.5-3.5% of all packs IRR = 2.79, 95% CI = 1.77-4.40, P < 0.001) increased. Low SES areas evidenced the greatest increase in pack concealment and the greatest decline in face-up pack orientation. Following Australia's 2012 policy of plain packaging and larger pictorial health warnings on cigarette and tobacco packs, smoking in outdoor areas of cafés, restaurants and bars and personal pack display (packs clearly visible on tables) declined. Further, a small proportion of smokers took steps to conceal packs that would otherwise be visible. Both are promising outcomes to minimize exposure to tobacco promotion.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 09-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2019-031421
Abstract: Some early studies indicated lower survival with longer time from diagnosis to cancer treatment, but others showed the reverse. We investigated time to treatment of colorectal cancer and associations with survival. Clinical registry data for colorectal cancer cases diagnosed in 2000–2010 at four major public hospitals in South Australia and treated by surgery (n=1675), radiotherapy (n=616) and/or systemic therapy (n=1556). A historic cohort design, with rank-order tests for ordinal clinical and sociodemographic predictors and multiple logistic regression for comparing time from diagnosis to treatment. Unadjusted Kaplan-Meier estimates and adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression were used to investigate disease-specific survival by time to treatment. Time to treatment and survival from diagnosis to death from colorectal cancer. Treatment (any type) commenced for 87% of surgical cases 60 days of diagnosis, with 80% having surgery within this period. Of those receiving radiotherapy, 59% began this treatment 60 days, and of those receiving systemic therapy, the corresponding proportion was 56%. Adjusted analyses showed treatment delay days was more likely for rectal cancers, 2006–2010 diagnoses, residents of northern than other metropolitan regions and for surgery, younger ages years and unexpectedly, those residing closer to metropolitan services. Adjusting for clinical and sociodemographic factors, and diagnostic year, better survival occurred in 2 years from diagnosis for time to treatment days. Survival in the 3–10 years postdiagnosis generally did not differ by time to treatment, except for lower survival for any treatment days for surgical cases. The lower survival 2 years from diagnosis for treatment 30 days of diagnosis is consistent with other studies attributed to preferencing more complicated cases for earlier care. Lower 3–10 years survival for surgical cases first treated days from diagnosis is consistent with previously reported U-shaped relationships.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 11-02-2009
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 30-01-2023
Abstract: Very little research has focussed on children’s school lunchboxes from both a health and environment standpoint. This scoping review explores studies that considered children’s lunchbox food consumption trends at school and the environmental impacts of lunchbox contents. We conducted a scoping review of peer-reviewed literature with a focus on lunchboxes of children in preschool or primary school settings that contained food packed from home, through the lens of food and nutrition in combination with environmental outcomes—particularly food and/or packaging waste. The review included 10 studies, with articles from Australia, USA, Spain, New Zealand and the UK. Half of them were intervention studies aiming to shift knowledge levels and attitudes of teachers, parents and children with regard to reducing packaged food choices and food waste, and improving dietary habits. Acknowledging the complexity of lunchbox packing and consumption practices, this review recommends the consideration of socio-ecological influences on children’s health and sustainability behaviour, and mobilizing their pro-environmental agency.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-09-2016
DOI: 10.1111/BJU.13622
Abstract: To compare clinical features, treatments and outcomes in men with non-metastatic prostate cancer (PCa) according to whether they were referred for symptoms or elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level. This study used data from the South Australia Prostate Cancer Clinical Outcomes Collaborative database a multi-institutional clinical registry covering both the public and private sectors. We included all non-metastatic cases from 1998 to 2013 referred for urinary rostatic symptoms or elevated PSA level. Multivariate Poisson regression was used to identify characteristics associated with symptomatic presentation and compare treatments according to reason for referral. Outcomes (i.e. overall survival, PCa-specific survival, metastasis-free survival and disease-free survival) were compared using multivariate Cox proportional hazards and competing risk regression. Our analytical cohort consisted of 4 841 men with localized PCa. Symptomatic men had lower-risk disease (incidence ratio [IR] 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.61-0.81 for high vs low risk), fewer radical prostatectomies (IR 0.64, CI: 0.56-0.75) and less radiotherapy (IR 0.86, CI: 0.77-0.96) than men presenting with elevated PSA level. All-cause mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 1.31, CI: 1.16-1.47), disease-specific mortality (HR 1.42, CI: 1.13-1.77) and risk of metastases (HR 1.36, CI: 1.13-1.64) were higher for men presenting with symptoms, after adjustment for other clinical characteristics however, risk of disease progression did not differ (HR 0.90, CI: 0.74-1.07) amongst those treated curatively. Subgroup analyses indicated poorer PCa survival for symptomatic referral among men undergoing radical prostatectomy (HR 3.4, CI: 1.3-8.8), those aged >70 years (HR 1.4, CI: 1.0-1.8), men receiving private treatment (HR 2.1, CI: 1.3-3.3), those diagnosed via biopsy (HR 1.3, CI: 1.0-1.7) and those diagnosed before 2006 (HR 1.6, CI: 1.2-2.7). Our results suggest that symptomatic presentation may be an independent negative prognostic indicator for PCa survival. More complete assessment of disease grade and extent, more definitive treatment and increased post-treatment monitoring among symptomatic cases may improve outcomes. Further research to determine any pathophysiological basis for poor outcomes in symptomatic men is warranted.
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 08-2011
DOI: 10.1016/J.AUSMJ.2011.05.004
Abstract: In 2006 Australia introduced graphic health warnings (GHW) on cigarette packets, depicting a range of tobacco-related pathology. This intervention, controlling the appearance of a consumer product, was designed to raise consumers’ awareness of the harms of tobacco use, motivate quitting, and discourage uptake of smoking. This study applies the reasoned action approach to assess the relevance of GHW-related beliefs and attitudes to smokers’ behavioural intentions and smoking behaviour. A s le of 587 smokers was recruited through a random representative population survey in 2005, prior to the introduction of new warnings. A subset of 158 was followed up a year later. The results show that GHW-related beliefs and attitudes were predictive of intention to quit smoking. Intentions to quit were, in turn, predictive of quitting behaviour as measured in the follow up stage. New GHW warnings, smokers are presumed to have been exposed to, were also associated with changes in beliefs over time.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-08-2018
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 17-09-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12092841
Abstract: The need to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption is widely accepted, but whether artificially sweetened beverages (ASBs) are a recommended alternative is a growing policy issue because of emerging evidence of potential health effects associated with excess consumption. This study aimed to establish the extent of the Australian population’s knowledge of the risks associated with consuming SSBs (e.g., soda) and ASBs (e.g., diet soda), which is essential for identifying which facets of knowledge to target with public health interventions. A national computer-assisted telephone survey of 3430 Australian adults was conducted in 2017. The survey included a range of measures to test associations between SSB and ASB knowledge and beliefs, demographic characteristics, and soda and diet soda consumption. Participants had an overall awareness that there were health risks associated with SSB and ASB consumption, but they lacked more detailed knowledge of health effects and nutritional composition of these drinks. These knowledge gaps are concerning given that SSBs and ASBs are consumed in large quantities in Australia. Public health interventions targeting consumers’ limited knowledge and perceptions of health risks associated with excess sugar, calorie intake and artificial sweeteners are essential in reducing the health burden of obesity.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2020
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2020-037069
Abstract: Using linked cancer registry and administrative data to monitor, tumour, node and metastases (TNM) stage and survival from female breast cancer in Australia. Analysis of 2000–2014 diagnoses with linked population-based data to investigate: (1) sociodemographic predictors of advanced stage (stages III and IV), using unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression and (2) sociodemographic factors and stage as predictors of breast cancer survival using competing risk regression. Population-based registry cohort. 14 759 South Australian women diagnosed in 2000–2014. Stage and survival. At diagnosis, 46% of women were classified as stage I, 39% as stage II, 12% as stage III and 4% as stage IV. After adjusting for sociodemographic factors, advanced stage was more common: (1) for ages years and although not statistically significant, for ages 80+ years and (2) in women from socioeconomically disadvantaged areas. Compared with 2000–2004 diagnoses, stage and sociodemographic adjusted risks (sub-HRs (SHRs)) of breast cancer death were lower in 2005–2009 (SHR 0.75, 95% CI 0.67 to 0.83) and 2010–2015 (SHR 0.57, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.67). Compared with stage I, the SHR was 3.87 (95% CI 3.32 to 4.53) for stage II, 10.87 (95% CI 9.22 to 12.81) for stage III, and 41.97 (95% CI 34.78 to 50.65) for stage IV. Women aged 70+ years at diagnosis and those living in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas were at elevated risk of breast cancer death, independent of stage and sociodemographic factors. Stage varied by age, diagnostic period and socioeconomic status, and was a stronger predictor of survival than other statistically significant sociodemographic predictors. Achieving earlier diagnosis outside the original BreastScreen target of 50–69 years (as applying ) and in residents of socioeconomically disadvantaged areas likely would increase cancer survival at a population level.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2006
DOI: 10.1111/J.1467-842X.2006.TB00843.X
Abstract: To measure the reported impact of phased-in smoke-free bar laws on bar patronage and smoking behaviour, particularly among young adults. Cross-sectional survey of a representative s le of 2,004 South Australian adults, conducted four months into Phase I of the new laws. A comparable survey was conducted in 2003. Awareness of and support for the smoke-free laws were high. Phase I of the new laws did not reduce patronage. Young adults (18-24 years) reported higher patronage of bars and greater impact of the new laws on patronage, current smoking and future likelihood of quitting. Smoke-free laws are an effective public health measure to protect against second-hand smoke. Evidence is now emerging that they may also reduce smoking among young people, as bars are social settings with potential to alter social norms about smoking and promote reduced consumption and quitting.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-10-2022
DOI: 10.3390/NU14194173
Abstract: Front-of-pack (FoP) warning labels are a viable policy option with the potential to inform consumer choice and assist in reducing sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption as part of a multi-faceted approach. This study explored parents’ perceptions and understanding of a range of SSB warning labels. Focus groups (n = 12) with 82 parents of school-aged children were conducted, stratified according to education level, sex and location. Health effects, exercise equivalents, sugar content (teaspoons in text and pictograms, “high in”) and energy content labels were shown. Through thematic analysis we identified three themes. Theme 1 related to perceptions of effectiveness of labels, underpinned by four subthemes: perceptions of labels as credible, informative and useful, personally relevant and having the potential to change be haviour. Theme 2 related to participants finding opportunities for self-exemption (e.g., physically active) and message rejection (e.g., misinterpretation). Theme 3 encompassed the potential negative consequences of some labels (e.g., body image concerns). The text teaspoons label was perceived most favourably across all themes, with minimal negative issues raised. These results provide in-depth insight into potential responses to labelling as a policy intervention, providing important guidance for the development of labels to ensure optimal message content and framing for future testing and subsequent implementation.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
Abstract: We explored how sugar-sweetened beverages are marketed to Australian young people through sugar-sweetened beverage brand Facebook pages. We undertook a content analysis of Facebook posts made by six of the most popular sugar-sweetened beverage Facebook pages in Australia. Data were collected for a six-month period and were quantitatively analysed for descriptive data and explicit marketing techniques and then thematically analysed for implicit marketing messages. There were almost 1.9 million engagements across the six pages over the six-month period. Most posts (70%) included one or more calls to action through which followers were encouraged to do something. Content by sports and energy drink brands were heavily dominated by 'sporting prowess' and 'masculinity' themes while content by Coca-Cola shared the message of 'having fun with friends' and 'happiness'. All pages used outdoor setting scenes. Sugar-sweetened beverage brands use Facebook to align their marketing with the socio-cultural values and practices likely to be regarded as important by young people. Implications for public health: Our findings provide challenges and opportunities for those in public health advocacy and policy to consider for future obesity-reduction strategies.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2017
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 08-07-2020
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.13281
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 07-11-2020
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2016.11.034
Abstract: There is strong interest in front-of-pack labels (FoPLs) as a potential mechanism for improving diets, and therefore health, at the population level. The present study examined Australian consumers' preferences for different types and attributes of FoPLs to provide additional insights into optimal methods of presenting nutrition information on the front of food packets. Much research to date has focused on two main types of FoPLs - those expressing daily intake values for specific nutrients and those utilising 'traffic light' colour coding. This study extends this work by: (i) including the new Health Star Rating system recently introduced in Australia and New Zealand (ii) allowing a large s le of consumers to self-nominate the evaluation criteria they consider to be most important in choosing between FoPLs (iii) overs ling consumers of lower socioeconomic status and (iv) including children, who consume and purchase food in their own right and also influence their parents' food purchase decisions. A cross-sectional online survey of 2058 Australian consumers (1558 adults and 500 children) assessed preferences between a daily intake FoPL, a traffic light FoPL, and the Health Star Rating FoPL. Across the whole s le and among all respondent subgroups (males vs females adults vs children lower socioeconomic status vs medium-high socioeconomic status normal weight vs overweight/obese), the Health Star Rating was the most preferred FoPL (44%) and the daily intake guide was the least preferred (20%). The reasons most commonly provided by respondents to explain their preference related to ease of use, interpretive content, and salience. The findings suggest that a simple to use, interpretive, star-based food label represents a population-based nutrition promotion strategy that is considered helpful by a broad range of consumers.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-08-2014
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 12-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12875-019-1066-9
Abstract: Little is known about whether a more comprehensive health assessment, performed by a general practitioner (GP) during a clinical encounter, could influence patients’ lifestyle. We aimed to investigate whether health assessments, performed by GPs, are more important than the presence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or cardiometabolic risk factors (obesity, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia) for engagement in lifestyle change. Cross-sectional, population-based survey conducted in South Australia (September–December 2017) using face-to-face interviews and self-reported data of 2977 in iduals aged 15+ years. The main outcome was engagement in four lifestyle changes: 1) increasing fruit/vegetable intake, 2) increasing physical activity level, 3) reducing alcohol consumption, and 4) attempts to stop smoking. Health assessments performed by a GP in the last 12 months included clinical/laboratory investigations (weight/waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid levels) and questions about lifestyle/wellbeing (current diet, physical activity, smoking status, alcohol intake, mental health, sleeping problems). Results were restricted to in iduals aged 35+ years because of the low prevalence of CVD or their risk factors among younger participants. Logistic regression was used in all associations, adjusted for sociodemographic, lifestyle, mental health, and clinical variables. Of the 2384 investigated adults (mean age 57.3 ± 13.9 years 51.9% females), 10.2% had CVD and 49.1% at least one cardiometabolic risk factor. Clinical/laboratory assessments performed by the GP were 2–3 times more frequent than assessments of lifestyle, mental health status, or sleeping problems, especially among those with CVD. In iduals with CVD or a cardiometabolic risk factor were no more likely to be increasing their fruit/vegetable consumption (33.6%), physical activity level (40.9%), reducing alcohol consumption (31.1%), or trying to quit smoking (34.0%) than ‘healthy’ participants. However, lifestyle changes were between 30 and 100% more likely when GPs performed three or more health assessments (either clinical/laboratory or questions about lifestyle/wellbeing) than when in iduals did not visit the GP or when GPs performed no any assessment during these clinical encounters ( p 0.05 in all cases). More frequent and comprehensive CVD-related assessments by GPs were more important in promoting a healthier lifestyle than the presence of CVD or cardiometabolic risk factors by themselves.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 10-02-2017
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-10-2008
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2011
DOI: 10.3109/00048674.2010.536904
Abstract: Objective: To examine smoking prevalence and smoking behaviour among South Australians with a mental illness and compare findings to those with no mental illness. Method: Data were collected in three cross-sectional representative population surveys of South Australians aged ≥15 years from 2005 to 2007. Merged data yielded a total s le size of 8417. The main outcome measures were: smoking prevalence, measures of tobacco dependence, awareness of the health effects of active and passive smoking, smoke-free homes and cars, awareness of health warnings, and use of cessation aids by two measures of mental illness status. Results: Overall 26.4% of the population with a general mental illness and 51.2% of the population with a severe mental illness smoked, compared to 18.7% of the population without a mental illness. People with a mental illness, particularly severe mental illness displayed higher measures of tobacco dependence. Smokers with a severe mental illness were less likely to have smoke-free homes (OR = 0.29, 95%CI 0.16-0.55). Television was an effective medium to present the health effects of smoking to all groups. Those with a general mental illness were more likely than those with no mental illness to have asked a general practitioner for advice to help them quit in the past year (OR = 2.02, 95%CI 1.07-3.84). Conclusions: Whilst smokers with a mental illness are more dependent on their smoking they are interested in quitting. There are a number of mainstream tobacco control strategies that could be further utilized (e.g. mass media and health professional referrals to the Quitline) to increase cessation among this disadvantaged group.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-2013
DOI: 10.1071/HE12926
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 10-10-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980018002392
Abstract: To examine the ways in which sugar-containing beverages are being portrayed as ‘better-for-you’ (BFY) via features on product labels. Cross-sectional audit of beverage labels. Adelaide, Australia. Data on beverage labels were collected from seventeen grocery stores during September to November 2016. The content of 945 sugar-containing beverages labels were analysed for explicit and implicit features positioning them as healthy or BFY. The mean sugar content of beverages was high at 8·3 g/100 ml and most sugar-containing beverages (87·7 %) displayed features that position them as BFY. This was most commonly achieved by indicating the beverages are natural (76·8 %), or contain reduced or natural energy/sugar content (48·4 %), or through suggesting that they contribute to meeting bodily needs for nutrition (28·9 %) or health (15·1 %). Features positioning beverages as BFY were more common among certain categories of beverages, namely coconut waters, iced teas, sports drinks and juices. A large proportion of sugar-containing beverages use features on labels that position them as healthy or BFY despite containing high amounts of sugar.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2017
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 21-01-2021
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980021000239
Abstract: There are numerous health effects associated with excess sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption. Interventions aimed at reducing population-level consumption require understanding of the relevant barriers and facilitators. This study aimed to identify the variables with the strongest relationship with intentions to reduce SSB consumption from a suite of variables derived from the literature. Random-digit dialling of landline and mobile phones was used to survey adults using computer-assisted telephone interviews. The outcome variable was ‘likelihood of reducing SSB consumption in next 6 months’, and the predictor variables were demographics, SSB attitudes and behaviour, health risk perceptions and social/environmental exposure. Australia. A subs le of 1630 regular SSB consumers from a nationally representative s le of 3430 Australian adults (38 % female, 51 % aged 18–45 years, 56 % overweight or obese). Respondents indicated that they were ‘not at all’ (30·1 %), ‘somewhat’ (43·9 %) and ‘very likely’ (25·3 %) to reduce SSB consumption. Multivariate nominal logistic regressions showed that perceiving future health to be ‘very much’ at risk was the strongest predictor of intention to reduce SSB consumption (OR = 8·1, 95 % CI 1·8, 37·0, P 0·01). Other significant predictors ( P 0·01) included self-perceptions about too much consumption, habitual consumption, difficulty reducing consumption and likelihood of benefitting from reduced consumption. Health risk perceptions had the strongest relationship with intentions to reduce consumption. Age and consumption perceptions were also predictors in the multivariate models, whereas social/environmental exposure variables were not. Interventions may seek to incorporate strategies to denormalise consumption practices and increase knowledge about perceived susceptibility to health risks.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-024036
Abstract: To explore the added value of hospital-registry data on invasive epithelial ovarian, tubal and peritoneal cancers. Historic cohort analyses. Unadjusted and adjusted regression. Major South Australian hospitals. 1596 women (1984–2015 diagnoses). 5-Year and 10-year survival was 48% and 41%, respectively, equivalent to relative survival for Australia and the USA. After adjusting for age, clinical and geographic factors, risk of ovarian cancer death was 25% lower in 2010–2015 than 1984–1989. Women generally had surgical treatment (87%) in their first round of care. This was more common for younger patients (adjusted OR (95% CIs) 0.17 (0.04 to 0.65) for 80+ vs years) and earlier International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics stages (adjusted OR 0.48 (0.13 to 1.78) for stage IIIB/C and 0.13 (0.04 to 0.45) for stage IV vs stage IA). Most (74%) had systemic therapy, which was more common for advanced stages (adjusted ORs .0 for stages III and IV vs stage IA). Few (9%) had radiotherapy. Women generally had systemic therapy (74%), without difference by service accessibility and socioeconomic disadvantage, suggesting equity. However, surgery was less common for residents of the most compared with least remote areas (adjusted OR 0.49 (0.24 to 0.99)) and more common prior to adjustment in the highest versus lowest socioeconomic category (unadjusted OR 1.55 (1.01 to 2.39)), but this elevation did not apply after adjustment (adjusted OR 0.19 (0.63 to 2.25)), with the difference largely explained by stage. Hospital-registry data add value for assessing local service delivery. Equivalent survival to Australia-wide and USA survival, and temporal gains after adjusting for stage and other patient characteristics are reassuring. Survival gains may reflect therapeutic benefits of more extensive surgery and improved chemotherapy regimens.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.HEALTHPOL.2017.06.003
Abstract: Few jurisdictions have implemented and evaluated a complete smoking ban across all health sites in their jurisdiction, with no designated smoking areas. This article examines staff and patient perceptions and experiences of a mandated smoke-free policy implemented across all government health facilities in South Australia, including mental health sites. An online survey of health staff was conducted prior to policy implementation (n=3098), 3 months post-implementation (n=2673) and 15 months post-implementation (n=2890). Consumer experiences of the policy were assessed via a telephone survey (n=1722 smokers n=254). Staff support for the policy was high across all time points. Two thirds of staff reported having witnessed some policy non-compliance, and self-reported exposure to second-hand smoke was comparable pre-implementation to 15 months post-implementation. Under the policy, 56.3% of smoking patients abstained completely whilst hospitalised and 37.6% cut down the amount that they smoked. Furthermore, 34.7% reported having been offered cessation support during hospitalisation. Whilst the smoke-free policy was viewed positively and had benefits for staff and patients, reports of witnessing some non-compliance were prevalent. While the extent of non-compliance is not known, and the measure used was sensitive, complementary strategies may be needed to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke, particularly at entrances. Health-care staff should be further encouraged to offer support to nicotine-dependent patients to foster compliance and promote abstinence during hospitalisation.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-02-2017
DOI: 10.1111/JPHD.12200
Abstract: To explore whether having less than 21 teeth is associated with poorer general health in a representative population s le of South Australians. Data were from a cross-sectional state-based survey, conducted from September to December 2013. Complete data were available for 2,908 participants (58 percent response rate). General health-related quality of life (HrQOL), as measured by the EuroQol instrument (EQ-5D-5L), was the main outcome measure. Total disutility scores were calculated, with the five in idual EQ-5D dimensions then dichotomized into "no problems" and "at least one problem." The main explanatory variable was self-reported missing teeth, as assessed by having <21 teeth versus 21+ teeth in a questionnaire. Overall, disutility was low (0.09) (ranges from 0 to 1, with high scores indicating poorer general health). In multivariable analysis, total disutility was positively associated with older age, lower annual household income, lower levels of physical activity, being a current tobacco smoker, receiving mental health treatment and <21 teeth. When in idual dimensions were considered, missing teeth remained significantly associated with mobility problems (PR 1.26, 95 percent CI 1.06, 1.50) and pain/discomfort (PR 1.16, 95 percent CI 1.06, 1.27). Missing teeth was associated with poor general health status as measured by EQ-5D-5L disutility. The relationship was especially evident with respect to mobility and pain/discomfort. The findings emphasize the importance of oral health as predictors of general health.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-09-2022
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.655
Abstract: Consumption of energy drinks is a public health concern, particularly in adolescents and young adults. This study explored energy drink consumers' reactions to an energy drink‐specific warning label (risk of cardiac effects) and a more general sugary drink warning label (risk of obesity). An online experimental study randomly allocated Australian energy drink consumers aged 18‐39 years (N = 435) to view one of two label conditions (cardiac effects or obesity). Participants were assessed on: intention to reduce energy drink consumption, perceived health threat, perceived label effectiveness and policy support for energy drink warning labels. Mean intentions to reduce consumption scores were similar across the two label conditions ( M obesity = 2.5, M cardiac = 2.6) overall and were higher for the cardiac label (compared to obesity label) for some subgroups: females ( M obesity = 2.3, M cardiac = 2.8 p = .037), older (25‐39 years M obesity = 2.4, M cardiac = 2.8 p = .016) and higher education level ( M obesity = 1.9, M cardiac = 2.7 p = .004). While perceived health threat measures were higher for obesity than cardiac effects, perceived label effectiveness measures of ‘believable’ and ‘relevant to me’ were higher for the cardiac label than the obesity label (believable: 71.0% vs 56.1% relevant: 42.5% vs 29.4%). Participants who viewed the cardiac label were more likely to support policy than those shown the obesity label ( OR = 1.6, 95%CI [1.1, 2.3], p = .02). Health effect warnings labels were perceived by energy drink consumers to be impactful and are supported. Labels with energy drink‐specific health effects may offer additional benefit. Policy makers can feel confident that warning labels on energy drinks will confer public health benefit.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 05-09-2011
DOI: 10.1093/HER/CYR065
Abstract: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians (Indigenous Australians) have more than twice the smoking prevalence of non-Indigenous Australians. Anti-smoking c aigns have demonstrated success in the general population but little is known about their impact among Indigenous people. A total of 143 Indigenous and a comparison group of 156 non-Indigenous smokers from South Australia were shown 10 anti-smoking advertisements representing a range of advertisements typically aired in Australia. Participants rated advertisements on a five-point Likert scale assessing factors including message acceptance and personalized effectiveness. On average, Indigenous people rated the mainstream advertisements higher than non-Indigenous people and were more likely to report that they provided new information. Advertisements with strong graphic imagery depicting the health effects of smoking were rated highest by Indigenous smokers. Advertisements featuring real people describing the serious health consequences of smoking received mixed responses. Those featuring an ill person were rated higher by Indigenous people than those featuring the family of the person affected by a smoking-related disease. With limited Indigenous-specific messages available and given the finite resources of most public health c aigns, exposure to mainstream strong graphic and emotive first-person narratives about the health effects of smoking are likely to be highly motivating for Indigenous smokers.
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 21-11-2018
DOI: 10.1080/10640266.2017.1383788
Abstract: Mental health treatment status and antidepressant use were investigated among men and women with an eating disorder (ED) who were interviewed in a general population survey of 3005 adults (aged ≥15 years). Compared to women, men with an ED were significantly less likely to receive treatment for a mental health problem or to be currently using an antidepressant. On multivariate analyses, female gender, lower mental health-related quality of life, and lower weight/shape overvaluation were significant predictors of receiving treatment and antidepressant use. Treatment was less likely in men and in people with higher ED cognitions.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 22-11-2018
DOI: 10.1111/DAR.12875
Abstract: Parental role modelling of alcohol use is known to influence alcohol consumption in adolescence and in later life. This study aimed to assess relationships between parental status, child age and alcohol consumption, which have not been well documented. Data were sourced from the 2013 Australian National Drug Strategy Household Survey. Analyses were conducted for 25-55 year olds (n = 11 591) by parental status, gender and age of youngest child in the household, controlling for socio-demographic factors. Parents were less likely than non-parents to exceed the alcohol guideline for increased lifetime risk (18.2% vs. 24.2%) and short-term risk: at least weekly (14.2% vs. 21.2%) and at least monthly (27.5% vs. 35.9%). Fathers were just as likely to exceed the guidelines for lifetime risk as other men, but those with children aged 0-2, were less likely to exceed the guideline for short-term risk. Women were least likely to exceed the guideline for lifetime risk if they had children aged 0-2, 6-11 or 15 years and over, or the guideline for short-term risk, if they had children aged 0-2, or 15 years and over in the household. Parents were more likely to report drinking in the home. Parents were less likely to exceed alcohol guidelines than non-parents, especially mothers whose youngest child was an infant or in high school or older. Consistent with population rates in men, fathers were more likely to exceed alcohol guidelines than mothers, and this excess consumption warrants public health attention.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 29-05-2019
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.257
Abstract: Sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) are the leading source of free sugars in Australian children's and adults' diets. This study explores drivers of consumption among parents and young adults to inform interventions. Eight focus groups (n = 59) stratified by gender, age/life stage and SES were analysed thematically. Daily SSB consumption was normalised. Participants drank SSBs to avoid perceived energy/sugar deficits, to treat themselves and as a function of familial influence. Frequent consumption was considered acceptable if "in moderation" and/or "balanced" with exercise/diet however, there was a large disconnect between this language of moderation and actual consumption practices. Participants acknowledged that social norms had changed over time. There was little evidence of accurate knowledge of sugar content for any beverage type. Participants relied heavily on packaging and labelling, much of which conveyed a health halo effect. While participants could list health effects of excess consumption, they were considered long-term or of low personal relevance. Awareness of health recommendations was low. Consumers' adoption and use of concepts such as "treat," "moderation" and "balance" reflect both food and beverage industry marketing and public health messaging. However, the disconnect between this language and knowledge and consumption practices is problematic. SO WHAT?: SSB consumption is very high with serious implications for health. Curbing consumption among young adults and parents has potential to change the health trajectories for current and future generations. There is a clear need to increase health literacy around SSB consumption. Simple consumption guidelines, clearer sugar content labelling and health warnings offer potential.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-08-2019
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-01-2021
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.453
Abstract: The LiveLighter ® healthy weight and lifestyle social marketing c aign, developed in Western Australia, employs graphic advertising to communicate negative health effects of overweight and motivate behaviour change. This study extends prior evidence of the effectiveness of the LiveLighter ® c aign by evaluating its implementation in a new jurisdiction. A controlled cohort design was employed in intervention (Vic) and comparison states (SA), with and without c aign exposure. Population surveys conducted at baseline (BL) (n = 1000 each state), had 75% retention at follow‐up (FU) (Vic: n = 715 SA: n = 787). Total c aign awareness was moderate (61.5%). Exposed respondents indicated the c aign was “believable” (91.0%), made a strong argument for reducing weight (87.3%), made them “stop and think” (70.1%), motivated action to reach/stay a healthy weight (59.1%) and was “relevant” (55.6%). The proportion of respondents indicating “toxic fat build up” was a health consequence of overweight increased significantly from BL to FU in Vic and to a lesser extent in SA (Vic:55.7% vs 75.9% SA:58.1% vs 62.6%, interaction P .001). The proportion indicating cancer is a health consequence of overweight increased significantly from BL to FU in Vic, but not in SA (Vic:77.1% vs 83.4% SA:77.8% vs 78.1%, interaction P .05). This study extends the evidence base for the LiveLighter ® c aign. Sustained c aign activity with clear behavioural recommendations is required to translate improved knowledge into behaviour change. Evidence‐based mass media c aigns can positively impact health behaviours to address the unsustainable increasing burdens of unhealthy weight, dietary risk and inadequate physical activity. A National Obesity C aign is needed and LiveLighter ® is a ready‐made, relevant Australian resource.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 18-07-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980018001702
Abstract: By clearly conveying the healthiness of a food, front-of-pack (FOP) labels have the potential to influence the portion size considered appropriate for consumption. The present study examined the how the Daily Intake Guide (DIG), Multiple Traffic Lights (MTL) and Health Star Rating (HSR) FOP labels affect judgements of appropriate portion sizes of unhealthy foods compared with when no FOP label is present. Respondents viewed mock packages of unhealthy variations of pizzas, cookies, yoghurts and cornflakes featuring the DIG, MTL, HSR or no FOP label, and indicated the portion size they believed should be eaten of each food on a single occasion. The survey was completed on the respondent’s personal computer. A total of 1505 Australian adults provided 4166 ratings across 192 mock packages relating to four product categories: pizza, yoghurt, cornflakes and cookies. Compared with no FOP label, the HSR resulted in a small but significant reduction in the portion size selected as appropriate for consumption of pizzas and cornflakes ( P ·05). The MTL resulted in smaller portions of cornflakes being selected compared with no FOP label ( P ·05). Respondents perceived smaller portion sizes as appropriate for some, but not all, of the foods tested when FOP labels with more interpretative formats (HSR, MTL) appeared on-pack compared with no FOP label. No effect was found for the less interpretive FOP label (the DIG). Interpretive FOP labels may have the potential to influence portion size judgements, albeit at modest levels.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 21-03-2017
Abstract: The presence of health claims on food packaging can positively bias consumers' evaluations of foods. This review examined whether cognitive biases endure when other sources of nutrition information [the nutrition facts panel (NFP) and front-of-pack labels] appear on-pack with health claims. The following databases were searched: Web of Science, Ovid, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ProQuest, and Wiley Online Library. The search terms ("health claim*" OR "nutri* claim") AND ("food label*" OR "front of pack") were used to identify studies. Twenty-four studies that examined health claims and front-of-pack labels or the NFP were included. The NFP can reduce bias, but only if consumers view it and interpret it correctly, which often does not occur. Front-of-pack labels show greater promise in reducing bias created by health claims. These findings are relevant to policymakers who are considering the effectiveness of mandating an NFP and/or a front-of-pack label alongside health claims.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 08-10-2017
DOI: 10.1111/JEP.12819
Abstract: Clinical registry data from major South Australian public hospitals were used to investigate trends in invasive breast‐cancer treatment and survival by age. Disease‐specific survival was calculated for the 1980 to 2013 diagnostic period using Kaplan‐Meier product‐limit estimates, with a censoring of live cases on December 31, 2014. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to examine differences in survival by age and tumour characteristic. First‐round treatments following diagnosis were analysed, using multiple logistic regression to adjust for confounding. Five‐year survival increased from 75% in the 1980s to 87% in 2000 to 2013, consistent with national trends, and with increases occurring irrespective of age. There was an increased use of breast conserving surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone treatments. Five‐year survival was lower for women aged 80+ years, increasing from 65% in the 1980s to 74% in 2000 to 2013. Lower survival in these older women persisted after adjusting for TNM stage, other clinical variables, and diagnostic year, without evidence of a reduced disparity over time. Older women were less likely to have surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy throughout 1980 to 2013. By comparison, their use of hormone therapy was elevated. The adjusted relative odds of mastectomy (as opposed to breast conserving surgery) were lower for the 80+ year age range. Breast‐cancer survival increases applied to all ages, including 80+ years, but poorer outcomes persisted in this older group and the gap did not reduce. A key question is whether the best trade‐off now exists between optimally therapeutic cancer treatment and accommodations for frailty and co‐morbidity in the aged, or whether opportunities exist for better trade‐offs and better survival. Local registry data are important for describing local service activity and outcomes by age for local service providers, health administrations and consumer groups monitoring disparities and indicating effects of local initiatives.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 05-10-2012
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-01-2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 31-10-2018
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2011.12.014
Abstract: The ability of food advertising to trigger food consumption and influence social norms relating to food consumption has resulted in increasing attention being given to the prevalence and nature of food advertising. The present study investigated the use of negative themes in food advertisements aired on Australian television to determine the prevalence of depictions of violence/aggression, mocking, nagging, boredom, loneliness, food craving, mood enhancement, and the emotional use of food across 61 days of programming time. The results suggest that advertisers are using negative themes to capture attention and invoke an emotional response in the target audience. Sixteen percent (14,611) of the 93,284 food advertisements contained negative themes, with mood enhancement and food craving being the most commonly depicted negative themes. Advertisements with negative themes were more likely to be for non-core foods and to be aired during children's popular viewing times than at other times. The potential for negative themes in food advertising to promote unhealthy food consumption behaviors among children is likely to be of concern to policy makers. Building on this exploratory study, further research is needed to investigate how nutrition-related decision making is affected by exposure to food advertisements employing negative emotional themes.
Publisher: Hindawi Limited
Date: 07-11-2018
DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12790
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to provide in-depth insight into men's experiences of prostate cancer, specifically: perceived stigma and self-blame, social isolation, unmet need and help-seeking. A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 20 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, and thematic analysis was undertaken. Some participants perceived a stigma associated with prostate cancer and cancer in general, which sometimes acted as a barrier to disclosure. Self-blame and internalisation of cause was not a prominent issue. Participants' descriptions of emotional distress, social isolation and anxiety demonstrated the impact of prostate cancer. Social isolation was most commonly reported as a physical consequence of treatment and/or side effects. Participants felt both support and ongoing care were limited at post-treatment. Most did not seek or receive help for emotional or psychosocial problems from a formal source due to anticipated awkwardness, autonomous coping, not burdening others, unwanted sympathy and retaining privacy. Prostate cancer can cause considerable emotional and social burden for some men, and many are unlikely to seek or receive help. Men, and their support networks, require active encouragement throughout diagnosis, treatment and follow-up to overcome barriers and access additional support, particularly for sexual, emotional and psychosocial issues.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 29-09-2021
DOI: 10.1007/S11136-020-02651-X
Abstract: Collecting patient-reported outcomes is important in informing the well-being of women with breast cancer. Consumer perceptions are important for successful implementation of monitoring systems, but are rarely formally assessed. We compared reactions to two different surveys (assessing psychosocial outcomes and/or Health-related Quality of Life (HrQoL) outcomes) among Australian women with breast cancer. Women (18 + years) within 5 years diagnosis of breast cancer were randomly allocated to complete one of two online surveys: (i) minimum HrQoL measures or (ii) minimum HrQoL measures plus psychosocial outcomes (body image, depression, anxiety stress, fear of cancer recurrence, decisional difficulties and unmet need). Participants completed questions regarding their perceptions of the survey, including qualitative feedback. Data were available for 171 participants (n Assessment of HrQoL and psychosocial outcomes was well received by consumers. Results alleviate concern regarding possible patient burden imposed by longer more in-depth surveys. The importance placed on assessment brevity should not outweigh the need to assess outcomes that consumers consider important.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 02-2019
DOI: 10.1136/BMJOPEN-2018-023630
Abstract: Sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) consumption in Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is reported to be disproportionally high compared with the general Australian population. This review aimed to scope the literature documenting SSB consumption and interventions to reduce SSB consumption among Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Findings will inform strategies to address SSB consumption in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. PubMed, SCOPUS, CINAHL, Informit, Joanna Briggs Institute EBP, Mura databases and grey literature were searched for articles published between January 1980 and June 2018. Studies were included if providing data specific to an Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander population’s SSB consumption or an intervention that focused on reducing SSB consumption in this population. Systematic scoping review. 59 articles were included (1846 screened). While reported SSB consumption was high, there were age-related and community-related differences observed in some studies. Most studies were conducted in remote or rural settings. Implementation of nutrition interventions that included an SSB component has built progressively in remote communities since the 1980s with a growing focus on community-driven, culturally sensitive approaches. More recent studies have focused exclusively on SSB consumption. Key SSB-related intervention elements included incentivising healthier options reducing availability of less-healthy options nutrition education multifaceted or policy implementation (store nutrition or government policy). There was a relatively large number of studies reporting data on SSB consumption and/or sales, predominantly from remote and rural settings. During analysis it was subjectively clear that the more impactful studies were those which were community driven or involved extensive community consultation and collaboration. Extracting additional SSB-specific consumption data from an existing nationally representative survey of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people could provide detailed information for demographic subgroups and benchmarks for future interventions. It is recommended that a consistent, culturally appropriate, set of consumption measures be developed.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.APPET.2015.04.080
Abstract: Among other focus areas, interventions designed to improve children's diets need to address key factors contributing to children's consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages. The present study employed structural equation modelling to investigate the relationship between a broad range of predictor variables and the frequency with which Australian children consume soft drinks. In total, 1302 parents of children aged 8 to 14 years responded to an online survey about their children's food consumption behaviours. Soft drink consumption frequency was primarily influenced by parents' attitudes to soft drinks, children's pestering behaviours, and perceived social norms relating to children's consumption of these products. Importantly, pestering and social norms had significant direct effects on consumption frequency in addition to indirect effects via their impact on parents' attitudes to soft drink.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-09-2016
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 09-07-2009
Abstract: In the year 2006, Australia introduced graphic cigarette packet warnings. Previous warnings were text only. New warnings include one of 14 pictures, many depicting tobacco-related pathology. This study monitored the roll-out of the health policy initiative using multiple methodologies. Print media coverage of new pack warnings was observed over 3 years. Story content was coded as positive (supportive of pack warnings), neutral or negative. An observational study of small random s le of metropolitan stores (n = 16) over 7 months measured the pace of the roll-out in shops. Once new packs were readily available in stores, smokers (n = 152) were intercepted in city streets and asked about their reactions. Of the 67 media stories, 85% were positive or neutral about the new warnings and 15% were negative. Supportive content presented health benefits. Unsupportive content presented industry arguments. After the legislative change, it took 2 months before any new packs appeared in stores. After 6 months, the majority carried them. Newest images had highest recall among smokers. About 60% said new warnings detracted from the look of their brand. About 51% felt the increased risk of dying from smoking-related illness. About 38% felt motivated to quit. Plans by government to introduce graphic warnings were delayed up to 2 years, apparently by heavy industry lobbying. Actual widespread appearance in shops occurred several months after the implementation date. While media coverage of the new warnings reported the industry arguments against them, the balance of coverage was overwhelmingly positive. Smokers' initial reactions were in line with tobacco control objectives.
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 23-05-2019
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980019001228
Abstract: To establish high intake of free sugars and its related disease burden as a significant public health challenge in Australia. We discuss five key actions to reduce intake of free sugars tailored to the Australian context. These strategies are informed by reviewing the global scientific evidence on the effectiveness of a range of policy responses to reduce intake of free sugars at the population level. Australia. Australian population. The five key actions to reduce population levels for intake of free sugars tailored to the Australian context include prioritising health in trade agreements and policy introducing a fiscal policy supporting health and promoting food reformulation regulating advertising and improving labelling strengthening the current dietary guidelines and encouraging healthy choices. The adoption and implementation of the strategies discussed in the current commentary would aid in tackling the rising health burden from the intake of free sugars in Australia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 14-10-2015
DOI: 10.1111/IJPO.12069
Abstract: Child obesity interventions need to be based on a sound understanding of the factors that influence children's diets. To investigate the relationship between a range of predictor variables and the frequency with which Australian children consume energy-dense, nutrient-poor (EDNP) foods. A web panel provider was used to access 1302 parents of Australian children aged 8-14 years who responded to an online survey about their children's diets. Structural equation modelling was conducted to test a model of the factors contributing to the frequency of children's unhealthy food consumption. Of the tested variables, consumption of EDNP foods was primarily influenced by parents' attitudes to these foods, children's pestering behaviours and perceived social norms relating to children's consumption of these products. Both pestering and social norms had significant direct effects on consumption frequency as well as indirect effects via their impact on parents' attitudes to EDNP foods. Environmental factors that contribute to both pestering and social norms are likely to be critical considerations in the development of child obesity interventions.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 19-06-2013
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2012-050615
Abstract: To measure the impact of a 15-fold licence fee increase on tobacco retailer licence renewals. The regulatory change increasing tobacco licence fees (from $A12.90 to $A200 per annum) took effect on 1 January 2007. Government Tobacco Licence records (n=7093) were audited for 1 year prior to, and 2 years after the change. An interrupted time series analysis using ARIMA modelling was conducted to examine the impact of fee increases on the number of active licences. The total number of tobacco licences decreased by 23.7% from December 2007 to December 2009. The increased tobacco licence fee implemented on 1 January 2007, was associated with a significant reduction in the number of tobacco licences purchased or renewed in subsequent years. Of the 1144 entertainment licensees holding valid licences in December 2007, 30.9% no longer held a licence by December 2009, and 19.9% had reduced the number of points of sale within the same venue. Licensing of tobacco retailers has received little attention in tobacco control in Australia and internationally. Our data add to the growing body of evidence supporting further regulation of retail sale of tobacco. The results demonstrate that a tobacco licence price increase off a low base is a potentially effective method of reducing tobacco points of sale when consumer demand for cigarette products is low. However, further research is needed to identify additional measures that may be necessary to reduce the availability of tobacco products in areas where consumer demand for cigarettes is high.
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 17-04-2011
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 25-02-2015
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2015
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 31-10-2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2011
Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Date: 11-08-2020
DOI: 10.1101/2020.08.11.20172478
Abstract: An accurate measure of the impact of COVID-19 is the infection fatality ratio, or the proportion of deaths among those infected, which does not depend on variable testing rates between nations. The risk of mortality from COVID-19 depends strongly on age and current estimates of the infection fatality ratio do not account for differences in national age profiles. Comparisons of cumulative death trajectories allow the effect and timing of public health interventions to be assessed. Our purpose is to (1) determine whether countries are clustered according to infection fatality ratios and (2) compare interventions to slow the spread of the disease by clustering death trajectories. National age standardised infection fatality ratios were derived from age stratified estimates from China and population estimates from the World Health Organisation. The IFRs were clustered into groups using Gaussian mixture models. Trajectory analysis clustered cumulative death rates in two time windows, 50 and 100 days after the first reported death. Infection fatality ratios from 201 nations were clustered into three groups: young, medium and older, with corresponding means (SD) of 0.20% (0.03%), 0.38% (0.11%) and 0.93% (0.21%). At 50 and 100 days after the first reported death, there were two clusters of cumulative death trajectories from 113 nations with at least 25 deaths reported at 100 days. The first group had slowly increasing or stable cumulative death rates, while the second group had accelerating rates at the end of the time window. Fifty-two nations changed group membership between the time windows. A cluster of younger nations have a lower estimated infection fatality ratio than older nations. The effect and timing of public health interventions in preventing the spread of the disease can be tracked by clustering death rate trajectories into stable or accelerating and comparing changes over time.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-03-2012
DOI: 10.1111/J.1465-3362.2012.00439.X
Abstract: Current alcohol guidelines in Australia recommend minimising alcohol consumption, especially among minors. This study investigated (i) the extent to which children and the general population are exposed to television advertisements that endorse alcohol consumption and (ii) the themes used in these advertisements. A content analysis was conducted on alcohol advertisements aired over two months in major Australian cities. The advertisements were coded according to the products that were promoted, the themes that were employed, and the time of exposure. Advertising placement expenditure was also captured. In total, 2810 alcohol advertisements were aired, representing one in 10 beverage advertisements. Advertisement placement expenditure for alcohol products in the five cities over the two months was $15.8 million. Around half of all alcohol advertisements appeared during children's popular viewing times. The most common themes used were humour, friendship/mateship and value for money. Children and adults are regularly exposed to advertisements that depict alcohol consumption as fun, social and inexpensive. Such messages may reinforce existing alcohol-related cultural norms that prevent many Australians from meeting current intake guidelines.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 23-05-2019
DOI: 10.3390/NU11051158
Abstract: Nutrition labelling can influence consumers’ assessments of food healthiness and their food choices. However, there is a lack of consensus about the optimal type and amount of nutrition information to provide on food packages. This study analysed consumers’ preferences for front-of-pack information relating to energy and various nutrients (sugar, saturated fat, sodium, fibre, carbohydrate, and protein). The aim was to identify discrete preference segments within the Australian market where the current Health Star Rating front-of-pack labelling system can be displayed with different levels of nutrition information. Adults (n = 1558) completed a survey assessing socio-demographics, self-reported nutrition knowledge, diet healthiness, special dietary requirements, and perceived importance of the provision of energy and nutrient information on the front of food packs. Latent profile analysis identified five consumer segments within the s le that ranged from groups exhibiting high levels of interest in various forms of nutrition information to one with very low interest and one with ergent scores according to whether nutrients were perceived as positive or negative for health. The results indicate that different forms of front-of-pack labelling featuring varying degrees of information about energy and specific nutrients are likely to be of interest and use to different market segments.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 19-09-2018
DOI: 10.1002/HPJA.197
Abstract: The Health Star Rating (HSR) System provides a useful tool to communicate health and nutrition messages to consumers. Given the large contribution from sugar-containing beverages to sugar intake in the Australian diet and the adverse health outcomes associated with frequent consumption, it is important to investigate how the HSR System is displayed on beverages. Our research measured and compared the presence of the HSR System on the labels of sugar-containing and sugar-free beverages in Australia. We conducted a survey of the labels on 762 ready-to-drink (≤600 mL) nondairy/nonalcoholic beverages, s led from 17 South Australian supermarkets in late 2016. We measured the presence of a star rating icon or an energy-only icon (which is an option of the HSR System for beverages). The HSR System was observed on 35.3% of beverages, with only 6.8% displaying a star rating icon and 28.5% displaying an energy-only icon. When present (n = 52), star rating icons were almost universally 5 stars (94.2%), and of these, they were predominantly displayed on 100% juices (85.7%). Almost all beverages with a star rating contained high amounts of sugar only three sugar-free beverages displayed a star rating. We found that there are low uptake and limited use of the HSR System on beverages. SO WHAT?: The HSR System on beverages could better achieve its objectives if the energy-only icon were removed from the graphic options, the algorithm were adjusted so that 100% juices cannot display a 5-star rating, and the System were made mandatory.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2010
DOI: 10.3109/00016341003713869
Abstract: Objective. Evaluate the impact of an integrated brief intervention to assist antenatal staff in addressing smoking with pregnant women. Design. Three studies were conducted: (a) antenatal staff surveys pre‐ and post‐training to deliver the brief intervention (b) retrospective audit of pregnancy records (c) post‐intervention follow‐up interviews with a cohort of pregnant women who smoked at baseline. Setting. South Australia. S le. (a) Antenatal health professionals at two major birthing hospitals ( n = 117 pre‐survey and n = 62 post‐survey) (b) 1,024 pregnancy records (c) follow‐up interviews with women at one month ( n = 58), 6 months ( n = 40) and 12 months ( n = 31) post‐intervention. Methods. (a) Staff surveys about current practice prior to training (via written questionnaire) and 12 months post‐training (by telephone) (b) pregnancy record audit for presence and use of the Smoke‐Free Assessment & Intervention Form (SFA& IF) conducted at 12 months (c) telephone surveys assessing smoking behavior. Main Outcome Measures. Staff practice change and compliance with the intervention. Cessation rates among pregnant women. Results. At 12 months, 89% of staff reported that the intervention integrated well into their work The SFA& IF was physically present in 80% of pregnancy records and 89% had been completed. Over 65% of current smokers were offered advice about the benefits of quitting quit rates were highest at 6 months (18, 13% conservative estimate), but women tended to relapse after the birth of their baby. Conclusions. The intervention was well‐received and staff compliance was high. Quit rates exceeded spontaneous quit rates in the community. This project has been expanded nationally.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-03-2020
DOI: 10.3390/NU12030817
Abstract: Reducing consumption of free sugars, such as those found in high concentrations in manufactured products such as sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and 100% fruit juices, is a global public health priority. This study aimed to measure prevalence of widely available pre-packaged non-alcoholic water-based beverages (carbonated sodas, sports drinks, energy drinks, artificially-sweetened sodas, fruit juices (any type), and bottled water) and to comprehensively examine behavioral, environmental, current health, and demographic correlates of consumption. A cross-sectional, nationally-representative population survey of 3430 Australian adults (18+ years) was conducted using computer-assisted telephone (mobile and landline) interviewing. Past week prevalence of pre-packaged drinks containing free sugar was 47.3% daily prevalence was 13.6%. Of all the pre-packaged drinks assessed, consumption of fruit juices (any type) was the most prevalent (38.8%), followed by bottled water (37.4%), soda (28.9%), artificially-sweetened soda (18.1%), sports drinks (8.1%), and energy drinks (4.2%). Higher soda consumption was associated with males, younger age, socio-economic disadvantage, frequent takeaway food consumption, availability of soda in the home, obesity, and a diagnosis of heart disease or depression. A diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes was associated with increased likelihood of consuming artificially-sweetened sodas and decreased likelihood of consuming sugar-sweetened soda. SSB consumption is prevalent in Australia, especially among young adults and males, foreshadowing continued population weight gain and high burdens of chronic disease. To reduce consumption, Australia must take a comprehensive approach, incorporating policy reform, effective community education, and active promotion of water.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-06-2013
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 05-2013
DOI: 10.1017/S1368980013001067
Abstract: The current study examined the impact of television and Internet food advertising on Australian parents and children. Parents and their children aged 8 to 14 years were exposed to a television advertisement, an Internet advertisement or a control picture for four commonly advertised energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods. Online web panel survey, Australia. Parents ( n 1302) and their children aged 8 to 14 years ( n 1302). After a single exposure to each advertisement, parent respondents in the two exposure conditions evaluated the products more favourably, had a greater desire to consume the products and thought the product could be consumed more frequently than those in the control condition. Similar trends were observed among children, although the differences were statistically significant only for the frequency of food consumption in the Internet advertisement condition and the evaluation of one product. The results have implications for assumptions of adults’ immunity to advertising. This is of particular importance in efforts to address child obesity and the reliance on parents to mediate the effects of food advertising.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2014
Abstract: To examine self-reported alcohol consumption and relationships between consumption, awareness of the 2009 NHMRC guidelines of no more than two standard drinks per day, drinking in excess of the guideline threshold and perceptions of alcohol as a risk factor for cancer. Questions were included in annual, cross-sectional surveys of approximately 2,700 South Australians aged 18 years and over from 2004 to 2012. Consumption data for 2011 and 2012 were merged for the majority of analyses. In 2011 and 2012, 21.6% of adults drank in excess of the guideline threshold (33.0% males 10.7% females). While 53.5% correctly identified the NHMRC consumption threshold for women, only 20.3% did so for men (39.0% nominated a higher amount). A large minority said they did not know the consumption threshold for women (39.2%) or men (40.4%). In 2012, only 36.6% saw alcohol as an important risk factor for cancer. Important predictors of excess consumption for men were: higher household income and not perceiving alcohol as an important risk factor for cancer. Predictors for women were similar but the role of household income was even more prominent. Men were nearly three times as likely to drink in excess of the guidelines as women. The majority of the population did not see an important link between alcohol and cancer. Awareness of the latest NHMRC guidelines consumption threshold is still low, particularly for men. A strategy to raise awareness of the NHMRC guidelines and the link between alcohol and cancer is warranted.
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-04-2018
DOI: 10.1136/TOBACCOCONTROL-2017-054194
Abstract: Smoking rates have been compared with a spring, requiring continuous downward pressure against protobacco forces, rather than a screw, which once driven down stays down. Quality antitobacco mass media c aigns put downward pressure on smoking rates. The suspension of a major Australian state c aign provided a natural experiment to assess effects on smoking. Furthermore, we document the positive influence of robust monitoring and mature advocacy on the political decision to reinstate funding. We also document the misuse by industry of South Australian smoking data from the period between Australia’s implementation and subsequent evaluation of plain packaging. A time series analysis was used to examine monthly smoking prevalence trends at each of four intervention points: (A) commencement of high-intensity mass media c aign (August 2010) (B) introduction of plain packaging (December 2012), (C) defunding of c aign (July 2013) and (D) reinstatement of moderate-intensity c aign (July 2014). The suspension of the antitobacco c aign was disruptive to achieving smoking prevalence targets. There was an absence of a downward monthly smoking prevalence trajectory during the non-c aign period. Moreover, there was a significant decline in smoking prevalence during the period of high-intensity advertising, which continued after the introduction of plain packaging laws, and at the recommencement of c aign activity. While the observed declines in smoking prevalence are likely due to a combination of interventions and cannot be attributed exclusively to antitobacco advertising, the results reinforce the political decision to reinstate the c aign and demonstrate the need for maintained investment to keep downward pressure on smoking rates.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2019
Abstract: To investigate the effectiveness and cultural relevance of Quitskills training tailored for health professionals working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who smoke. A retrospective analysis was conducted with data collected from 860 participants (54% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants) in tailored Quitskills training from 2012 to 2016. Course participants took part in a survey at pre-training, post-training and four-six weeks post-training to assess confidence in skills to address tobacco, and perceptions of the strengths, areas for improvement and cultural relevance of the training. Confidence in skills and knowledge to address tobacco increased significantly from pre- to post-training (all indicators of confidence in skills increased p<0.001) and remained high at follow-up. Tailored Quitskills training was perceived as being culturally relevant by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants, and the training facilitators were the most commonly cited strength of the training. Quitskills is an appropriate course for increasing skills and confidence among health professionals working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who smoke. Implications for public health: Training courses that are tailored for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can build the capacity of the health workforce in a culturally relevant manner.
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 11-07-2020
Abstract: To quantify the depictions of alcohol in the popular Australian reality TV show—Bachelor in Paradise (season 1: 2018). All 16 episodes were coded in 1-min intervals for the presence of alcoholic beverage related content and non-alcoholic beverage content, and the categories of actual use, implied use and other references. Alcohol was highly prevalent in all episodes. Alcohol content occurred frequently, with 70.7% of intervals having any alcohol content. Actual alcohol use occurred in 31.9% of 1-min intervals, implied alcohol use occurred in 63.4% of intervals and other alcohol references occurred in 14.0% of intervals. Alcohol content was present in the first or second 1-min interval of all 16 episodes. Alcohol content was more than twice as prevalent as non-alcoholic content (34.0%). The high volume of alcohol content depicted in the show is of concern, due to the important influence it may have on the audience. Vulnerable viewers, especially minors and young adults, are being exposed to ubiquitous alcohol references. This may influence their perceptions of normal alcohol use, their attitudes toward alcohol and their own consumption of alcohol. A stronger regulatory regime is required in Australia to protect young people more effectively from depictions in television programs.
No related organisations have been discovered for Caroline Miller.
Start Date: 10-2009
End Date: 10-2011
Amount: $105,746.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 07-2010
End Date: 06-2015
Amount: $213,769.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded ActivityStart Date: 12-2014
End Date: 12-2016
Amount: $203,513.00
Funder: Australian Research Council
View Funded Activity