Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)
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The effect of COVID-19 lockdown on air pollution matter in Iranian cities, especially Tehran: A systematic review.
No full textBackground: Major cities in Iran have experienced significant air pollution problems. Air pollution in Iran is a complex issue with various contributing factors, including industrial activities, vehicular emissions, power plants, and dust storms. The Iranian government has recognized the severity of the air pollution problem and taken measures to address it. Traffic control plans and raising citizen awareness are among these measures. However, despite these efforts, challenges remain in combating air pollution. The COVID-19 pandemic had already caused significant impacts on air pollution levels around the world. These lockdowns reduced industrial, transportation, and human activities. It was an excellent opportunity to determine whether it could be effective to reduce air pollution or not.
Methods: To investigate the effectiveness of COVID-19 Lockdown on air pollution in Iran, a systematic review was conducted in January 2023. Inclusion criteria consisted of quantitative studies, from 2020, which assessed air pollution in different cities in Iran during COVID-19 Lockdown.
Results: Thirteen studies were finalized for analysis, with seven common outcome measures (AQI, NO2, CO, O3, SO2, PM 2.5, PM 10). NO2 and CO decreased in all studies as a direct result of vehicle transport, while AQI showed minimal differences. O3 and PM 2.5 levels increased in most conditions due to their formation processes. It was found that PM 10 decreased in most circumstances, but in varying degrees.
Conclusion: The COVID-19 Lockdown had positive effects on air pollution in most cities of Iran, but the effects were not as significant as expected due to partially applied Lockdown and to other sources of air pollution in Iran. However, the results suggest that an appropriate traffic control plan as a similar effect of COVID-19 Lockdown can help control traffic in large cities in Iran, especially in Tehran megacity, along with other factors including improving public transport, reducing fossil fuel usage, and using electrical vehicles
Attitudes of pharmacy students about vaping as a smoking-cessation tool: A quantitative study.
No full textBackground: Vaping serves as a smoking cessation tool by providing individuals with an alternative method to satisfy their nicotine cravings without the harmful effects of traditional cigarette smoking. This study aims to explore the viewpoints of pharmacy students who are currently enrolled at Liverpool John Moores University regarding the effectiveness of vaping as a method for smoking cessation.
Methods: An exploratory quantitative study was conducted using an online questionnaire sent to the students studying on the Pharmacy Programme in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences.
Results: A total of 55 participants completed an online survey, yielding several key findings. In terms of students\u27 attitudes towards vaping as a helpful smoking cessation tool, 12.7% strongly agreed and 49.1% agreed that they could be helpful. Regarding the effectiveness of e-cigarettes compared to Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT), 9.1% strongly agreed and 18.2% agreed that e-cigarettes are more effective as a smoking cessation tool than NRT. 18.2% of students strongly agreed and 43.6% agreed that combining e-cigarettes with cessation services such as behavioural support would be more effective than using e-cigarettes alone. In terms of student’ knowledge about vaping, 60.0% did not know that e-cigarettes users can report side effects via the Yellow Scheme Card if suspecting a side effect from using e-cigarettes. 58.2% of students did not know that medically licensed e-cigarettes are not currently available in the UK. When asking whether e-cigarettes are strictly regulated for safety and quality in the UK, 49.1% of students replied that they are not strictly regulated, and 29.1% did not know the answer. When it came to providing advice to patients, 9.1% strongly agreed and 25.5% agreed to recommend e-cigarettes to quit smoking.7.3% of students strongly agreed and 43.6% agreed to recommend e-cigarettes to smokers who failed to quit smoking using traditional methods. 43.6% strongly agreed and 23.6% agreed that there is a lack of high-quality evidence on the effectiveness of e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation tool.
Conclusion: The study provided an overview of pharmacy students ‘attitudes on vaping as a smoking cessation aid. The study also identified some implications that should be considered for future research including the need to enhance pharmacy students\u27 knowledge on vaping as a smoking cessation aid, integrating evidence-based content into the curriculum, organising workshops, learning sessions, and providing mandatory training in retail pharmacy settings can be effective
A systematic review of the factors influencing employee motivation among healthcare workers in Sub-Saharan Africa.
No full textBackground: Over time, the pressing concern of subpar health service delivery has escalated in developing nations, particularly within the Sub-Saharan region of Africa (SSA). The efficacy of delivering quality healthcare services hinges significantly upon the presence and competence of healthcare workers (HCWs). Moreover, the degree of employee motivation among HCWs in this region is posited to correlate with healthcare quality. Conversely, the demotivation of healthcare workers is purported to exert adverse effects on motivational outcomes, encompassing diminished performance and productivity, compromised healthcare delivery quality, and HCW migration. Thus, in response to the imperative of addressing the scarcity of highly motivated healthcare staff, a methodical literature review was undertaken to systematically investigate the factors influencing employee motivation within the healthcare workforce of SSA regions.
Methods: To undertake this study, a systematic review methodology was employed, and three reputable databases were searched, guided by the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Through this process, a total of 7 articles meeting the specified criteria were identified, appraised, and subsequently organized thematically.
Results: The findings derived from the comprehensive review underscored a troubling lack of equity and transparency within the health sector of SSA, specifically concerning crucial aspects like salary schemes, promotions influenced by managerial preferences, and recommendations for in-service training. This pervasive issue of inequity was identified through a meticulous analysis of seven prominent themes, including financial remuneration, career development, access to further educational opportunities, managerial practices, recognition, availability of resources, and infrastructural facilities. Although financial remuneration emerged as a prevalent factor affecting employee motivation, it was evident that other dimensions such as managerial practices, recognition, and the provision of resources also wielded significant influence over the motivation of healthcare.
Conclusion: It is therefore deduced that several factors influence employee motivation thus it is imperative for pertinent stakeholders to integrate a balanced approach that encompasses both financial and non-financial incentives. This strategy holds the potential to foster a substantial enhancement in employee motivation among healthcare workers (HCWs) in the SSA region
A quantitative study of the knowledge, attitudes, and effects of vaping among male and female students at Liverpool John Moores University
No full textBackground: The topic that is going to be discussed in this research paper is the knowledge, attitudes, and effects of vaping among male and female students at LJMU. The literature review underscores the discussion of vaping devices as a healthier alternative when compared to traditional smoking. Smoking leads to various health problems, including lung diseases, heart issues, and more. Hence, there is undeniable evidence of numerous harmful elements in cigarettes. The addictive habit of smoking is challenging to quit, prompting the emergence of vaping as a potential harm-reduction strategy. Vaping involves the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes).
Methods: This study employs a descriptive research design to investigate vaping knowledge, attitudes, and effects among male and female LJMU students. The research approach is inductive, utilizing an inductive method for data collection. An online survey was conducted via LJMU email, involving 105 participants who responded to a 23-question open-ended questionnaire. Convenience sampling was employed to target the student population. Data analysis utilized SPSS, focusing on primary data sources.
Results: The study comprehensively examines vaping knowledge, attitudes, and effects among LJMU students. The findings emphasize the role of social networks in awareness (92.4%) and highlight diverse views on harm reduction (39.5%). Notably, 39.5% of respondents believe e-cigarettes are 95% less harmful than tobacco smoking, indicating varied perspectives on harm reduction potential. Support for stricter regulations (72.1%) aligns with healthcare consensus. The study contributes to a broader understanding of vaping behaviours and attitudes among LJMU students, underscoring the need for ongoing research to explore this topic further.
Conclusion: In conclusion, this study sheds light on vaping attitudes and knowledge among LJMU students, highlighting diverse perspectives on harm reduction and the necessity for ongoing research
A systematic review on the prevalence, risk factors and interventions related to physical abuse of older people in nursing homes.
No full textBackground: Physical Abuse of Older People (AOP) is a major concern to public health, as it threatens the well-being and safety of older adults living in nursing homes. This review considers physical AOP as intentional acts of violence, harm, or mistreatment that result in physical pain, injury, or impairment, such as verbal abuse, neglect, mistreatment, and force-feeding. However, all possible perpetrators of physical abuse were considered in this systematic review.
Methods: Two databases (EBSCOHost for CINHAL and MedLine) were searched. In addition, a web search through Google Scholar, as well as a grey literature search was also conducted. The search process was conducted between 12 February 2023 and 19 May 2023.
Results: Out of the 433 references retrieved by the search, the selection process arrived at 18 articles which provided answers to the three research questions that influenced the research. The prevalence of physical AOP in nursing homes was determined from seven articles as 34.08% (CI 11.50 to 48.56, range 5% to 62.7%). From nine articles, there are three major themes on risk factors of physical AOP in nursing homes, referring to risk factors related to perpetrators, nursing home settings, and other residents. Nine articles reported interventions on physical AOP, which have two major themes: intervention to reduce AOP at the nursing home and caregiver levels.
Conclusion: The study findings revealed the significance of physical AOP, emphasising that it is a significant problem to public health, especially nursing practice. The research established a high prevalence value, which is even more worrisome because the risk factors, such as problems with stress and coping and insufficient training of the nursing staff, are still imminent and contribute to the risk of physical abuse. To reduce physical AOP, the review established increased hiring of more qualified personnel as effective
A scoping review of men’s experience of domestic violence and support provision in West Africa.
No full textBackground: Domestic violence against men is a significant but often overlooked issue in West Africa. This scoping review aimed to determine men\u27s experience of domestic violence and support provision in West Africa.
Methods: A systematic search was conducted using multiple databases, including Google Scholar, EBSCO (Medline), PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus. Relevant grey literature sources were also included. The search identified 1,293 studies, which were screened based on eligibility criteria. Ultimately, 18 studies were included.
Results: The scoping study revealed a dearth of research pertaining to the occurrence of domestic abuse against males in the region of West Africa. The study\u27s results unveiled the prevalence of domestic violence against males in different regions, highlighting the presence of diverse patterns and manifestations influenced by cultural and socioeconomic factors. Within the population of male victims, obstacles to the act of disclosing their experiences and seeking assistance were identified as societal stigma, inadequate comprehension, and a dearth of available support resources. The impact of domestic abuse on men\u27s well-being is evident, encompassing psychological distress, physical health challenges, and disrupted social interactions. Nevertheless, it was discovered that the provision of support services for male victims was insufficient in terms of accessibility and availability. The experiences of male victims were influenced by gender norms and societal expectations.
Conclusion: This scoping review provides a comprehensive overview of the existing literature on men\u27s experience of domestic violence and support provision in West Africa. The findings highlight the need for further research, gender-inclusive policies, comprehensive support services, and multi-sectoral collaborations to address the gaps and challenges identified. By adopting a public health approach and integrating domestic violence screening and intervention within healthcare settings, the well- being and safety of male victims can be better addressed
Factors associated with uptake and offer of Hepatitis B vaccines among people who use drugs: A scoping review.
No full textBackground: Hepatitis B vaccination uptake among high-risk populations, especially people who use drugs, is crucial for preventing and controlling hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. However, there are significant barriers to vaccine acceptance and accessibility within this population, leading to low vaccine coverage rates and increased vulnerability to HBV infection. Therefore, this scoping review aimed to explore the factors influencing hepatitis B vaccination uptake among high-risk populations, with a specific focus on people who use drugs. The objectives were to identify the key barriers and facilitators of vaccine uptake, examine the strategies employed to improve vaccine acceptance and accessibility and highlight any gaps in the existing research.
Methods: A comprehensive search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Scopus, was conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2002 and 2022. The search strategy utilized a combination of keywords related to people who use drugs, hepatitis B, vaccination, and related concepts. A total of 92 articles were initially identified, and after the screening process, 9 studies were included in the scoping review. The selected studies encompassed a range of research designs, including cross-sectional surveys, qualitative interviews, and intervention studies, conducted in diverse geographical locations.
Results: The scoping review identified several factors hindering hepatitis B vaccine uptake among people who use drugs. Access barriers, including limited access to healthcare facilities, conflicts in scheduling vaccine appointments, and language and racism factors, emerged as common themes. Affordability barriers, such as financial limitations and high vaccine costs, were also prominent. Acceptance barriers, including fear, stigma, and discrimination, significantly influenced vaccine uptake. Limited awareness and knowledge about hepatitis B and its prevention were identified as important barriers. Activation barriers, related to fear-based advertising and lack of convincing messages, also affected vaccine acceptance.
Conclusion: The findings of this scoping review highlight the need for targeted interventions and strategies to improve hepatitis B vaccine acceptance and accessibility among high- risk populations, particularly people who use drugs. Integration of vaccination services within existing healthcare systems, tailored interventions that address the specific needs of these populations, and efforts to improve access, affordability, awareness, and acceptance of the vaccine are crucial. Strengthening healthcare provider engagement, enhancing provider education and communication skills, and addressing socioeconomic and logistical barriers are recommended. Further research is needed to validate these findings and evaluate the effectiveness of specific interventions in diverse populations
Solid waste management, air quality, and sustainability in Nigeria: A scoping review.
No full textBackground: A major global health risk, environmental air pollution results in significant death and morbidity from respiratory, cardiovascular, and other illnesses. In low-and middle-income nations like Nigeria, environmental difficulties brought on by inappropriate solid waste disposal are now big problems. This is due to the enormous increases in solid waste creation that have followed population growth and urbanisation. This dissertation thus aimed to discover from the existing literature how solid waste management relates to air quality and sustainability.
Methods: A scoping review of literature published between 2015 and 2023 was undertaken in July 2023 using three databases. This was to accommodate different types of quality research needed to achieve the aim of the dissertation. Both manual and appropriate literature searches were done. Screening entailed examining the title and abstract before full-text screening against predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The PRISMA-SCr was used to extract data, which was subsequently charted and categorised according to themes before synthesis.
Results: Out of 1123 studies identified, twenty made up the scoping review. Fourteen studies focused on the challenges of managing Municipal Solid waste; three studies assessed the generation; two studies explored its effects on humans and the environment; and one addressed solution. Government-led initiatives in air quality monitoring are scarce, which makes it difficult to effectively control and regulate air quality and subsequent health issues. The review identified that waste in Nigeria thus includes biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. The problem of municipal solid waste stems from inadequate funding, the absence of resources and equipment, and poor implementation of policies.
Conclusion: It is impossible to overstate the connection between a clean environment and good health. It is essential to encourage sustainable initiatives that can increase data availability over time, strong communication between various government sectors, and widespread collaboration. Unquestionably, good solid waste management will support a clean environment. By improving government action, appropriate laws, and public knowledge, the region can prioritise the preservation of public health and air quality sustainability. Further studies then needed to address other areas to determine the effects of the different wastes and their impact on public health
Experience of workplace violence among healthcare staff in Nigeria: A quantitative systematic review.
No full textBackground: Workplace violence has significant consequences for both healthcare employees and organizations. The impacts can be physical, psychological, and financial and can affect the wellbeing of employees and the productivity and reputation of organizations. This systematic review aimed to determine the experience of workplace violence among healthcare staff in Nigeria using a quantitative approach.
Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases, including Medline, CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, African Journal Online, Sage Journals, and ProQuest. Critical Appraisal Skilled Programme (CASP) Checklist was used in assessing the quality of studies.
Results: A total of 1,555 studies were initially identified, and after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 13 studies were included for synthesis. These studies involved a total of 769 healthcare workers in Nigeria. The findings revealed a high prevalence of workplace violence among healthcare staff in Nigeria, including physical, verbal, and psychological violence. The most common perpetrators were patients, their relatives, and colleagues. Workplace violence had significant negative impacts on the mental health and wellbeing of healthcare workers, leading to emotional distress, burnout, and decreased job satisfaction. It also affected job performance and productivity, hindering the provision of quality healthcare services. Organizational factors, such as inadequate staffing, poor resources, ineffective communication, and hierarchical structures, were identified as contributing to the occurrence of workplace violence.
Conclusion: This review emphasizes the importance of developing and implementing policies that foster a culture of respect and non-violence, providing training to equip healthcare workers with necessary skills, fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration, and conducting further research to deepen understanding and inform evidence-based interventions. It could be seen that the detrimental effects of workplace violence on the mental health and well-being of healthcare workers, as well as its impact on job performance and productivity. The review also emphasizes the role of organizational and societal factors in perpetuating workplace violence. Addressing workplace violence is crucial for creating a safe and supportive work environment, promoting the well-being of healthcare staff, and improving the overall quality of healthcare delivery in Nigeria
The perceived impact of polycystic ovarian syndrome on the wellbeing of women in Nigeria.
No full textBackground: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common chronic disorder affecting women of childbearing age. Though it has no known cause, for now, it has been linked with having genetic properties in most women with it. The effects of its symptoms on the day-to-day lives of women are still poorly understood, especially among Nigerian women and black women generally. This lack of understanding in turn affects the care of women with PCOS, which can result in a poor quality of life that could be avoided. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of PCOS on the well-being of Nigerian women and to inform policy and practice changes targeted towards improving the quality of life of Nigerian women with PCOS.
Methods: This study employed an exploratory descriptive qualitative research design. Ten women recruited from a Nigerian women\u27s PCOS support group were interviewed online via MS Teams. This method provided extensive insight into the participants\u27 perspectives, reflections, and experiences. The data was analysed manually through the generation of themes using Braun and Clarkes\u27 thematic analysis approach.
Results: Participants described various PCOS symptoms, including menstrual irregularities, hirsutism, weight issues, and infertility. Emerging themes included views on the impact of PCOS on the physical health and wellbeing of women and the types of care and interventions needed for the improved management of PCOS. The idea of support groups and education for women with PCOS was recommended by the participants, who also stressed the importance of educating the public and healthcare professionals. The study found that the experiences and perceptions of women with PCOS are very similar across different countries, though with some differing environmental and cultural factors.
Conclusion: Future research involving women of lower socioeconomic class and females between the ages of 13-18 in Nigeria would allow for more representative research in exploring the impacts of PCOS on Nigerian females
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