Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)
Not a member yet
380 research outputs found
Sort by
Assessing the impacts of treated mosquito nets in preventing malaria and barriers that hinder their optimal usage among children in Uganda
No full textBackground: Malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Uganda, particularly among children under five years old, who are the most vulnerable to its severe effects. Insecticide-treated mosquito nets (ITNs) have been widely promoted as an effective preventive measure against malaria transmission. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of ITNs in preventing malaria among this high-risk population and to identify barriers to their usage.
Methods: A systematic review and critical appraisal of relevant studies was conducted using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program (CASP) tool. The review included both quantitative and qualitative research examining ITN effectiveness and associated behavioural factors affecting usage among children under five in Uganda.
Results: The findings indicate that ITNs significantly reduce malaria incidence, with an estimated effectiveness of approximately 60%. However, barriers to optimal ITN usage, such as economic constraints, accessibility issues, and cultural beliefs, were identified as significant challenges. The review highlighted variability in study quality and emphasized the need for comprehensive education and community engagement to enhance ITN adoption.
Conclusion: This study underscores the critical role of ITNs in malaria prevention among children under five in Uganda. To maximize their effectiveness, it is essential to address barriers to usage through targeted interventions, improve distribution strategies, and strengthen community education efforts. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, economic evaluations, and behavioural insights to inform public health strategies and enhance malaria control efforts in the region.
What do we know about the impact of social media and online platforms on the uptake and effectiveness of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to reduce HIV infection among adult men in Spain?: A scoping review
No full textBackground: HIV remains a major global health concern. Despite continued improvements in HIV/AIDS treatment and awareness, HIV transmission rates remain high among men who have sex with men (MSM) and transgender women (TW) in Spain. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) has been shown to be highly effective and been implemented in Spain, but uptake remains low among MSM and TW due to barriers, such as stigma and lack of knowledge. This review addresses the efficacy and uptake of using social media and online platforms in understanding PrEP uptake behaviour and treatment adherence, and the use of PrEP as an HIV preventive measure through GSN geo-social networking applications.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted to search for studies on the impact of social media on the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among adult men in Spain. The search covered English and Spanish resources and articles published from year 2014. The review followed Arksey and O\u27Malley\u27s methodological framework for scoping reviews. Four electronic databases were used in this review: PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Dialnet. Additionally, an exploration of grey literature, alongside a manual examination of the reference list of the selected studies, was carried out.
Results: The search found 245 unique sources. The initial screening identified 77 for full-text evaluation, with 13 articles meeting the inclusion criteria for the scoping review. The research studies were carried out exclusively in Spain and involved both Spanish citizens and foreign residents living in the country. Using online forums has been an effective method for sharing experiences, clarifying information and establishing a sense of mutual understanding among PrEP users. Positive results were observed in relation to behavioural alterations, knowledge enrichment, active participation and approval of PrEP as a preventive measure against HIV transmission.
Conclusion: Social media and online platforms such a mobile apps have been shown to be effective as an intervention strategy for HIV prevention among populations experiencing high-risk sexual behaviours, including MSM and TW. The use of digital platforms, such as online forums, plays a crucial role in reducing social stigmas while improving the dissemination of knowledge and the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). 
A survey study exploring the knowledge of international students who smoke tobacco about smoking and its impact on reproductive health
No full textBackground: The consumption of tobacco poses considerable risks to reproductive health, but international students\u27 understanding and views of these impacts are limited. Cultural, social, and educational influences shape their comprehension and conduct. This study aims to explore international students’ knowledge about smoking and its impacts on reproductive health.
Methods: An exploratory quantitative survey was carried out using an online questionnaire posted on Facebook group recruiting international students in the UK. A convenience sampling method was used to collect data over 4 weeks.
Results: 31 participants completed the survey. All of them were current smokers aged 22-30 years. The number of male and female respondents were almost equal. Black students (58%) participated more than Asians (41%). Postgraduate students (67%) participated more than undergraduates. Of those who completed the survey, 45% were 16 years old when they first tried smoking; 80% were daily smokers;12% were occasional smokers; 54% smoked 6-10 cigarettes per day; and 29% smoked 2-5 cigarettes a day. All the participants wanted to quit smoking to improve their health (74%) or to save money (25%). Also, 67% believed that smoking did not affect fertility in both men and women; and 93% had not received any prior education on smoking’s effects on reproductive health. Of the sample, 87% wanted online resources for getting information and training on this matter.
Conclusion: This study provides an overview of international students\u27 understanding of smoking\u27s impacts on reproductive health which demonstrates a need to improve understanding, incorporate evidence-based content into the curriculum, host workshops and learning sessions, and start campaigns and public health policies.
Barriers and facilitators of help-seeking in intimate partner violence: A scoping review : International Public Health Dissertation Prize Winner
No full textBackground: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a pervasive public health issue with significant physical and psychological consequences for survivors, particularly women. This study aims to comprehensively explore the barriers and facilitators influencing help-seeking behaviours among South Asian women experiencing IPV. Given the socio-cultural context of South Asia, understanding these dynamics is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems tailored to the unique needs of this population.
Methods: A scoping review methodology was employed, guided by the Population/Context/Concept (PCC) framework. The review included qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods studies published in English. Data were sourced from academic databases such as PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus, Medline, and CINAHL, supplemented by grey literature from Google Scholar and ResearchGate. The inclusion criteria focused on female survivors of IPV aged 18 years or older, examining the barriers and facilitators to help-seeking within the South Asian context.
Results: The review identified several significant barriers to help-seeking. These included socio-cultural stigma, fear of retaliation, economic dependency, and lack of awareness about available support services. Additionally, cultural norms that emphasize family honour and traditional gender roles were found to discourage women from seeking help. Facilitators for help-seeking included supportive social networks, economic resources, higher education, and empowerment through community-led initiatives. The presence of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and community leaders advocating for women’s rights also played a critical role in encouraging help-seeking behaviours.
Conclusion: This research underscores the complex interplay of socio-cultural factors affecting help-seeking behaviours among South Asian women experiencing IPV. It highlights the need for multi-faceted interventions that address economic empowerment, community education, and the strengthening of informal support networks. Policymakers and practitioners should prioritise culturally relevant strategies to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of support services for IPV survivors. Future research should focus on developing and testing interventions that can be adapted to the diverse cultural contexts within South Asia. 
Understanding the knowledge, barriers and facilitators of women’s emergency contraception methods to avoid unintended pregnancies in the United Kingdom: A qualitative systematic review
No full textBackground: Unintended pregnancies are a significant public health issue in the United Kingdom, particularly among young women, where rates remain high compared to other European countries. Despite the availability of emergency contraception (EC), its use is hindered by a lack of awareness, stigma, and misconceptions. This research aims to explore the barriers and facilitators that influence the use of EC among adolescents in the UK. The objective of this study is to systematically identify and analyse the barriers and facilitators affecting the accessibility, acceptability, and use of emergency contraception among young women in the United Kingdom. The study seeks to provide evidence-based recommendations to improve EC access and reduce unintended pregnancies.
Methods: A qualitative systematic review methodology was employed, focusing on studies that examine the knowledge, barriers and facilitators of young women regarding EC. Data was collected from multiple academic databases, including Medline and Google Scholar, using a structured search strategy. Thematic synthesis was used to analyse the data, with the quality of the included studies assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist.
Results: The review included five qualitative studies that identified significant barriers to EC use, such as societal stigma, judgmental attitudes from healthcare providers, privacy concerns, and misconceptions about the safety and efficacy of EC. Facilitators included the convenience of pharmacy access and supportive, non-judgmental healthcare providers. The findings indicate that while pharmacies offer convenient access to EC, the lack of privacy and persistent stigma often deter young women from seeking it.
Conclusion: This study highlights the critical need for public health interventions to reduce stigma, enhance privacy in pharmacy settings, and improve education on emergency contraception. Addressing these barriers through targeted strategies is essential to increasing the uptake of EC and reducing unintended pregnancies among young women in the United Kingdom. 
Evaluating the size and nature of the evidence base for non- pharmacological interventions to prevent post-partum depression (PPD) among women in India
No full textBackground: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant public health concern in India, affecting both maternal and child well-being. While pharmacological interventions exist, non- pharmacological approaches are gaining recognition for their potential in PPD prevention, particularly in the Indian context.
Methods: This scoping review comprehensively maps the landscape of non-pharmacological interventions for PPD prevention in India. Employing a systematic search strategy, we identified relevant studies from three databases (PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) and grey literature sources. Data extraction and synthesis were guided by the PCC (Population, Concept, Context) framework and thematic analysis.
Results: A range of non-pharmacological interventions were identified, including cognitive- behavioural interventions (CBT), interpersonal interventions (IPT), yoga, physical exercise, and community-based interventions. These interventions demonstrated effectiveness in reducing PPD risk, improving maternal mental health outcomes, and promoting participant empowerment. However, challenges in accessibility, cultural relevance, and long-term impact assessment were also noted.
Conclusion: This scoping review underscores the potential of non-pharmacological interventions for PPD prevention in India. Addressing implementation challenges, enhancing cultural sensitivity, and conducting further research on long-term outcomes are crucial to maximize the benefits of these interventions and improve maternal mental health in the Indian context.
Reasons for non-disclosure of sexual violence among adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review
No full textBackground: Sexual violence against adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa is a pervasive issue, deeply embedded in socio-cultural, economic, and institutional contexts. Despite its high prevalence, many incidents remain unreported due to various barriers to disclosure. Adolescents, particularly girls, are especially vulnerable due to factors such as poverty, gender inequality, and limited access to education and healthcare. This scoping review aimed to comprehensively explore the reasons for the non-disclosure of sexual violence among adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on how cultural norms, societal expectations, and systemic failures contributed to the silence surrounding this issue.
Method: The study utilized a scoping review methodology, systematically analysing existing literature on sexual violence non-disclosure among adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa. The review covered peer-reviewed articles, reports, and relevant grey literature published within a specified timeframe. The inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing sexual violence, non-disclosure, and the adolescent demographic within the Sub-Saharan African context. The analysis involved identifying recurring themes, factors contributing to non-disclosure, and gaps in the existing research landscape.
Results: The review revealed multiple barriers to the disclosure of sexual violence among adolescents in the region. Key factors included personal fears of retaliation, societal stigma, and the potential for humiliation. Cultural taboos surrounding sexual violence, particularly against girls, further discouraged victims from speaking out. Systemic issues, such as inadequate reporting mechanisms, lack of trust in law enforcement, and insufficient healthcare support, were also identified as significant deterrents. These factors combined to create an environment where victims felt isolated and unsupported, hindering their ability to disclose and seek justice.
Conclusion: The study concluded that the non-disclosure of sexual violence among adolescents in Sub-Saharan Africa was a complex issue that required culturally sensitive interventions. Strengthening institutional support systems, improving access to education, and fostering environments that encourage open discussion and reporting were critical steps toward addressing this issue. Further research was essential to understand the specific barriers faced by adolescents in the region and to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies. 
Social cultural practices influencing stillbirth in Sub-Saharan Africa
No full textBackground: Stillbirth remains a significant global health concern, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for 45% of all stillbirth occurrences globally. A little over 40% of stillbirths in Sub-Saharan Africa happen in the labour room but underreporting, especially in rural areas, makes this figure unreliable. Considering this prevalence, current research into the main causes of stillbirth in Sub-Saharan Africa has highlighted certain beliefs and practices that influence pregnancy outcomes in the region. The negative effects of these practices are still unclear and warrant further investigation. This review aims to identify and analyse literature on the social and cultural practices that influence stillbirth among pregnant women in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods: The PEO (Population, Exposure, and Outcomes) framework was used to guide the search strategy and seven electronic databases were searched for studies published from 2014 to 2024. Furthermore, a grey literature search and manual search of the reference lists of the included studies were carried out to guarantee the thorough inclusion of relevant studies that could have been missed during the first search. After de-duplication, full-text screening was performed once the titles and abstracts were assessed. Lastly, pre-established inclusion and exclusion criteria were used to select the included studies, which then generated the study\u27s findings.
Results: The initial search recognized 1,832 studies, of which 10 were included in the systematic review, with the majority being qualitative ethnographic studies. The study identified five major social-cultural practices that influence Sub-Saharan Africa, including food taboos and restrictions, use of herbal medicines during pregnancy, preference of traditional birth attendants over skilled birth attendants, engagement in strenuous activities, and delay in referral to maternal health services
Conclusion: Among the five major practices outlined, food taboos/restrictions and the use of herbal medicines during pregnancy were the most discussed in the included studies. All outlined practices proved to be major factors that influence stillbirth in Sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding and addressing these social-cultural practices can inform targeted interventions toward improving the risk of stillbirth among pregnant women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Recommendations for eliminating harmful social and cultural practices that influence stillbirth should involve the government, global health organisations, and specialized healthcare professionals, by actively providing essential support for eliminating these negative practices in low resource settings.
A quantitative study to explore the public’s knowledge, perceptions, and awareness of the role and function of Environmental Health Practitioners in protecting public health
No full textEnvironmental Health Practitioners (EHPs) play an important role in protecting public health by ensuring that the physical environments in which we live, eat and work are safe. They aim to minimise risks and prevent illness, utilising their authoritative powers to enforce standards and ensure compliance from businesses and the public. Despite the significant contribution of EHPs, there is growing recognition of the limited understanding and awareness of their role among the general public. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the public’s knowledge, perceptions and awareness of EHPs and their function in protecting public health. The methodology for this study involved the use of a questionnaire distributed via social media, which gathered responses from 71 participants. The findings revealed a general lack of knowledge and awareness, with many participants associating EHPs with environmental protection activities, while overlooking other key responsibilities such as food safety, housing enforcement, health and safety, and health promotion. Additionally, the results from the study suggest that the term "Environmental Health" may be unclear or misleading to the public, further reinforcing the need for improved communication and clearer representation of the profession. The study also identified a strong support for increased public education about the role of EHPs from participants. Based on these insights, the study concludes with recommendations of strategies to enhance public knowledge and awareness, including targeted awareness campaigns, increased media visibility and educational initiatives. Such efforts could significantly improve recognition of the EHP profession and its contribution to public health as well as supporting in increasing numbers entering the professio
The role of social stigma in male suicide: implications for health and social care in the UK
No full textIn the UK, male suicide rates and social stigma pose a serious public health concern. The significant effects of social stigma on male suicide rates are examined in this review, which also looks at how cultural norms and societal attitudes lead to men\u27s mental health concerns being underreported and neglected. A major global health and social care concern, mental health is frequently impacted by several stressors, including poverty, violence, disability, prior trauma, societal injustices, and a host of other issues. Even while intervention can effectively treat many mental health issues, a sizable fraction goes untreated, and in certain circumstances, mental health can worsen to the point of suicide. Three-quarters of all suicide fatalities in the UK in 2022 were male, and this trend has not changed since the mid-1990s. This concerning figure emphasises how suicide disproportionately affects men, a problem that is made worse by the widespread stigma associated with mental health, especially among men. Men\u27s unwillingness to ask for assistance or publicly talk about their difficulties is made worse by cultural standards of masculinity, which frequently encourage emotional stoicism and independence. This paper critically looks at how stigma contributes to these difficulties, concentrating on the obstacles men encounter while trying to get mental health treatment. Literature illustrates how social pressures, and a dearth of suitable support networks can cause despondency and feelings of loneliness. The analysis also explores the implications for UK health and social care systems, highlighting the need for specialised interventions that tackle the difficulties men encounter when seeking mental health care. With implications for policy, healthcare delivery, and wider cultural change, this work advocates for a comprehensive strategy to lessen stigma and enhance mental health assistance for men. It promotes better mental health education, more awareness, and the creation of resources that are accessible and sensitive to the needs of this vulnerable group of males
Data sources:
LJMU Research Online (Liverpool John Moo...PATT40 (LJMU)Biomolecular Research Reports (BRR) (LJM...Design and Technology Education (LJMU)BLResearchDay (LJMU)Journal of Living Labs (LJMU)Journal of Natural Products Discovery (L...Journal of Social Media for Learning (LJ...Student Law Journal (LJMU)PRISM (LJMU)
Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)SPARK (LJMU)Student Experience Proceedings (LJMU)Transformation in Education (LJMU)Innovations in Practice (LJMU)Links to Health and Social Care (LJMU)
Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)SPARK (LJMU)Student Experience Proceedings (LJMU)Transformation in Education (LJMU)Innovations in Practice (LJMU)Links to Health and Social Care (LJMU)Access Repository Dashboard
Do you manage Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)? Access insider analytics, issue reports and manage access to outputs from your repository in the CORE Repository Dashboard!