Journal of Health Scope
Volume:12 Issue: 4, Nov 2023

Some countries have adopted the whole-of-government (WoG), whole-of-society (WoS) approach to face the recent global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. By applying the WoG approach, sectors beyond health have to work across boundaries to achieve an integrated government response to particular issues, such as global health emergencies. Furthermore, the WoS approach puts communities at the center of response, which is vital for effectively dealing with crises. The COVID-19 pandemic coincided with the toughest unilateral political and economic sanctions in Iran. Implementing preventive and restrictive strategies could be elusive without a tailored WoG-WoS approach. The National COVID-19 Committee (NCC) was established to foster necessary multi-sectoral collaboration to deal with the pandemic in Iran. Nonetheless, Iran faced seven waves of the COVID-19 pandemic so far, each one more devastating than the previous wave. As the NCC did not meaningfully engage with the representatives of civil society, it can be claimed that social participation in health promotion was sufficient in Iran. Applying WoG-WoS approaches could have facilitated better performance in dealing with the COVID-19 crisis; countries with better records in dealing with the recent pandemic have benefited from social mobilization and meaningful engagement with all sectors, including both state and non-state actors. We advocate the adoption of tailored initiatives to nurture such an approach in dealing with potential future crises in Iran and abroad.

 This study aims to assess public views and awareness about COVID-19 infection, severity, reinfection, vaccine acceptance, and government measures in Pakistan.

 A survey-based study was conducted between August 2021 and August 2022. The study used a self-administered questionnaire designed and distributed online using Google Forms, multiple social media platforms, and phone calls to collect data from the target population. We collected 1426 responses from male and female participants. The study was conducted in major cities throughout Pakistan, including Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad, Islamabad, Sargodha, Abbottabad, Swat, Quetta, and Mardan.

 Most respondents (76.8%) deemed COVID-19 a serious disease, while the other participants considered it either a non-severe condition or were unsure. In this survey, 78% of respondents believed in COVID-19 immunization, 14.4% were skeptical, and 7.6% did not believe in it. Most of the study population (91.1%) had been immunized against COVID-19, and 92.4% expressed a willingness to be immunized if the vaccine was readily available. However, the remainder were either unsure or refused to receive vaccinations. 19.9% of study participants were naturally infected with COVID-19, 12% were uncertain about their previous infection, and 68.1% were not infected. COVID-19 reinfection was reported by 10.2% of study participants. The second infection was deemed more severe by 15.9% of participants than the first. It was found that half of the surveyed population used natural and traditional methods to protect themselves from COVID-19 disease. Most respondents (73%) believed that the government should make vaccinations mandatory and that people should be forced to do so. During the COVID-19 outbreak, 55.4% of people were satisfied with government initiatives, while 19.4% were dissatisfied.

 The results of the present study conducted in major cities throughout Pakistan concluded that most people trusted the COVID-19 vaccine and showed high confidence and acceptance of vaccination. Additionally, most respondents were satisfied with the government's efforts to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

 The study aims to determine the age- and sex-adjusted prevalence of refractive errors and its related factors among the adult population of southeastern Iran.

 The current study included 9280 individuals aged 35 to 70 years using a multistage random sample method from October 2015 to January 2019 as a part of a Persian cohort study in Zahedan. Uncorrected and corrected vision, objective noncycloplegic, and subjective refraction were measured, with all participants undergoing ophthalmoscopy, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, fundoscopy, refraction, and retinoscopy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 statistic software and described as percentage, odds ratio, and 95% confidence interval. Comparisons between groups and relationships among risk factors and refractive errors were performed with chi-square, nominal, and multiple regression analysis.

 The prevalence of low and moderate myopia, high myopia, low and moderate hyperopia, high hyperopia, low and moderate astigmatism, and high astigmatism was 24.2 (95% CI: 22.40 - 25.90), 1.5(95% CI: 0.00 - 3.53), 16.1(95% CI: 14.20 - 17.90), 1.3(95% CI: 0.00 - 3.30), 35.6 (95% CI: 33.90 - 37.30), and 3.8 (95% CI: 1.80 - 5.70) percent, respectively. The prevalence of refractive errors significantly varied across different age groups overall and by sex (P = 0.01). The proportion of refractive errors also significantly differed by education (P = < 0.001). The prevalence of against the rule, with the rule, and oblique astigmatism was 32.8 % (95% CI: 31.10 - 34.20), 42.1% (40.50 - 43.60), and 24.9% (23.10 - 26.60), respectively. The risk of astigmatism was significantly lower in men than in women (OR = 0.75; 95 % CI: 0.60 - 0.90). Based on multiple regression, the risk of myopia (OR = 2.07; 95 % CI: 1.60 - 2.60) and hyperopia (OR = 25.38; 95 % CI: 18.70 - 34.3) was higher in the age group 65 to 75 years compared to the younger group.

 The present study provided valuable information on the prevalence of refractive errors in the adult population in south-eastern Iran. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive eye care services, particularly for older individuals and those with lower education levels. Further prospective research is warranted to explore the factors contributing to refractive errors and to develop effective strategies for its prevention and management.

 Good health is a pivotal aspect of daily life that contributes to social development. Physical activity is a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. Health promotion enables individuals to increase their control and improve their health, and health programs promote physical activity to improve health.

 This study aims to introduce the Japanese health education guidelines according to the requirements of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001-certified health education system in the Cebu region of the Philippines and aims to improve the health of the participants.

 A 12-month health program was implemented in Cebu City, and 43 participants were recruited, aged 35.0 ± 9.9 years (mean ± SD), including 22 men aged 35.6 ± 7.9 years and 21 women aged 34.3 ± 7.9 years. The effects of the health program and physical activity were assessed using brain function tests and blood chemistry profiles before and after the program.

 The average number of total daily steps taken by the 43 participants was 6,052. The weight and eyes-open single-leg stance for balance significantly improved. However, no significant differences were observed in the other physical fitness parameters, blood pressure, and brain function values.

 This health education is characterized by a mechanism that enables the setting of the next goal based on these evaluations and how to improve health. The participants have to be motivated to aim for a 7,000 daily step goal. Therefore, the participants and the staff involved in health education should build a relationship of trust and a deep bond, and the exercise continuation rate may increase, leading to a higher quality of life.

Context: 

Defined by several physiological and anatomical contributors, posture is essentially an accurate indicator of health status that is most frequently highlighted by affecting the configuration and operations of internal systems and organs. Quantifying body position has always been highlighted in clinical, academic, and industrial contexts, and various posture analysis approaches have been developed throughout the years.

This study aims to establish the reliability and validity of several novel observational approaches to postural load assessment and provide an overall view of related trends.

This review was designed and conducted following (PRISMA) guidelines and five databases were surveyed, namely PubMed, Science Direct, CINAHL, Ergonomic Abstracts, and EMBASE, utilizing both generic and specific search terms modified for each database. Articles introducing a novel approach to observational postural load analysis and concepts of reliability and validity of the introduced method were included. Cross-sectional, case-control, experimental, and controlled trial designs were considered. Studies were excluded if they were exclusively based on subjective approaches. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the MacDermid checklist. Similarly, reliability, measurement error, content validity, and criterion validity were assessed using COSMIN (Consensus-based Standards for selecting health Measurement Instruments) boxes B, C, D, and H, respectively.

Twenty-five articles were selected for the final review. The studies mainly reported ICC for reliability and r and r2 for validity. The results on the MacDermid quality evaluation tool varied from 38 to 80%, with a mean of 61.60 ± 11.54%. Regarding the COSMIN checklists, the scores were 61.40 ± 10.39%, 59.16 ± 11.35%, 64 ± 16.07%, and 57.12 ± 15.19% for boxes B, C, D, and H, respectively. Some studies did not obtain high scores for specified inclusion and exclusion criteria and appropriate sample size, leading to a moderate quality rating in checklists.

Drawing comprehensive conclusions by directly comparing and contrasting observational techniques can be challenging due to their unique strengths, limitations, and inconsistencies. Such variations may arise from the methods’ characteristics, such as the fields, settings, populations, and the evaluated risk factors.

Context: 

In recent decades, the tobacco epidemic has spread worldwide. The impact of tobacco control policies has been different among countries. This paper aims to explain how two countries, the United Kingdom (UK) and India, with different political, social, and cultural contexts, implemented theWorld Health Organization (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Evidence Acquisition: 

A comparative study was done for tobacco control in UK and India in 2022. A review of literature in five databases, observational data and legal documents on tobacco use were undertaken. To identify and explain the factors that pose challenges to the implementation of tobacco control policies, country reports and health policy monitoring and research databases (in total, 27 papers and 16 reports) were reviewed.

Having different economic, social, and cultural backgrounds, a similar pathway to control the tobacco industry can be seen in UK and India. The factors that can explain the similar outcomes in two countries are the global pressure of WHO, increased awareness of people and policymakers, and a sense of urgency about the tobacco problem in both societies.

At different stages of tobacco control in both countries, various interest groups with different routes of political influence used veto opportunities to overturn political decisions in the policy process. Continuous analysis of interest groups and their status quo is necessary to restrict the tobacco industry in favor of public health. Governments should carefully recognize the stakeholders and stake challengers in the policy domain and balance their interests.

Context: 

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are pollutants that are among the most important risk factors for cancer, especially in individuals with underlying diseases. On the other hand, various types of cancers in the vital organs of the body, including the liver, lung, and bladder, and diseases related to the nervous system can be attributed to exposure to this polluting agent. Bladder cancer depends on numerous factors, such as inherited genetic predisposition and external exposure. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are by-products arising from the incomplete combustion of organic matter. They are found in all environments, such as hospitals, industries, and homes.

The purpose of this review study was to investigate the epidemiological literature on the side effects of PAHs on bladder cancer and the risk factors related to cancer.

A total of 80 articles according to different databases, namely PubMed, Web of Science, Springer, Cochrane, and ScienceDirect, were retrieved. Then, 38 full-text articles were entered into the analysis process. Finally, 12 articles were selected for this study.

The literature review showed that PAH exposure occurs in daily life through exposure to tobacco smoke, consumption of charcoal-smoked meats, and inhalation of air pollutants. The concentration of PAHs is related to the risk of developing bladder cancer during the lifetime of PAHs. Bladder tumors are directly related to exposure to carcinogens. While the exposure to risk factors increases, the risk of developing cancer increases. Risk factors affecting bladder cancer include smoking and occupational and dietary factors.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are by-products of incomplete combustion of organic matter. They are found in all environments, such as hospitals, industries, and homes, and they can affect the urinary system, cause dysfunction, and eventually cause bladder cancer.

The scientific name of rice is Oryza sativa. It is one of the important staple human foods. There are more than 110,000 cultivated varieties of rice, most widely known and grown. Nutrient concentration may vary depending on production, environment, pre- and post-harvesting treatment, and processing. Cooked rice with high amylose content effectively controls metabolic disorders, serum blood glucose levels, and lipid profile and is also effective in weight loss.

This study aimed to determine the comparative effect of amylose concentration in brown and white rice on hepatocellular insufficiency in healthy rat models.

We divided 25 rats into 5 groups (G0, G1, G2, G3, and G4). There were 5 rats in each group. Group 0 was the control group on a normal diet. Group 1 was fed white rice flour, G2 was fed cooked white rice, G3 was fed brown rice flour, and G4 was fed cooked brown rice. Free access to food and water was secured. Weight changes, blood glucose, and lipid profiles were analyzed pre and post-treatment.

Rats on white rice feed showed weight gain, increased blood glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low HDL levels. However, rats on brown rice feed showed less weight gain (P < 0.05), a lower increase in blood glucose (P < 0.05), high HDL, lower LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. The pancreas and liver histopathology showed no major changes due to the short trial duration.

Rats fed white rice showed ineffective results disturbing biological parameters as compared to those rats which were fed brown rice. Due to low amylose content and the presence of antioxidants, flavonoids, and high fiber content, brown rice shows beneficial effects in controlling and maintaining relevant biological parameters.

Some adverse pregnancy outcomes are rooted in the gestation period and can influence the mother, newborn, or both. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of pregnancy complications and their relationship with neonatal complications in mothers referring to the healthcare centers in Zahedan, Iran.

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 630 women referring to the health care centers in Zahedan selected using systematic random sampling. Demographic information and anthropometric indices were collected and recorded in gestational and neonatal care forms. The data were analyzed in SPSS v. 22 using the chi-square test.

The results revealed that 18.9% of the mothers had anemia, 12.7% gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), 5.1% thyroid disorders, 4% hypertension, and 2.1% preeclampsia. Moreover, 14.1%, 41.1%, and 22.7% of the mothers were underweight, overweight, and obese, respectively. A significant relationship existed between the infant’s birth weight and the mother’s body mass index, hypertension, GDM, and maternal iron deficiency anemia (P < 0.05). Infant jaundice was also significantly related to GDM and preeclampsia (P < 0.05).

Identifying problems threatening the health of mothers and newborns and paying more attention to nutritional health care during pregnancy are efficient strategies for preventing and controlling pregnancy-related neonatal complications and the health of mothers and newborns. Specific attention to prevention programs, strengthening health care policies during pregnancy, and promoting prenatal care and self-care are major health priorities.

Understanding the value and willingness to pay (WTP) for services is crucial for decision- making.

This study aimed to measure the level and factors affecting households’ WTP for dental services using the doublebounded dichotomous choice approach.

This cross- sectional study collected data through a questionnaire- based interview with 300 households in the city of Tabriz, Iran, in 2019. The double- bounded dichotomous choice approach was used to estimate WTP, and factors related to WTP were calculated using an internal regression model, and data were analyzed using Stata 14.

The households’ mean WTP for fissure sealant, fluoride therapy, scaling, and removable orthodontics were $8.96, $4.36, $16.00, and$47.38, respectively. Household income, education level, age, regular dental visits, andhaving elderly people in the family were found to be factors affecting WTP for dental services.

The study found that household income was a significant factor affecting WTP for dental services. Not using dental services is often due to low household income and high service prices. Therefore, policymakers should consider setting dental service prices based on income levels to ensure access to services for all income groups.