Public Health Institute Journal (LJMU)
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A qualitative study to explore parental views on how fast-food consumption can impact on primary school children’s health in Leeds
No full textParents play a crucial role in the development of their children’s eating habits, due to being responsible for food choice, meal patterns, whilst ensuring children get the required nutrients. Fast-food is energy-dense and high in salt, sugar and saturated fats. Frequent fast-food consumption plays a role in the development of childhood obesity. This causes harm to individuals’ mental and physical health, whilst hindering economic development and adding pressure to services. The UK is currently experiencing an obesity epidemic. The chosen location for this study is Leeds due to it being one of the first UK cities to see a decline in rates of obesity. Participants were recruited through purposive sampling using the researcher’s personal contacts who met the inclusion criteria. Participants self-included or excluded to take part in an online semi-structured interview on Microsoft teams. Overall, six participants were interviewed. All interviews underwent thematic analysis, identifying four themes: fast-food consumption, understanding a balanced diet, sources of knowledge, and the support needed for parents.
Parents discussed feeding their children fast-food approximately once per week. Common motivations identified by parents included convenience, cost and children’s preference. Parents identified all the common physical health impacts of frequent fast- food consumption such as diabetes and heart problems. However, few identified the mental health impacts. All parents displayed strong background knowledge surrounding a balanced diet and the essential vitamins needed for children’s development. Parents mentioned they were trying to introduce a balanced diet whilst their children’s palates were forming. Parents identified a range of sources they ascertained their knowledge from. They all mentioned social media, their upbringing, books and advice from professionals. Parents identified that support is required for parents to educate and raise awareness around fast-food consumption and the health impacts. Parents emphasised the Government should take responsibility through social media, marketing campaigns and reducing the advertising of junk food. Parents highlighted working with supermarkets, schools and targeting actions to low-income families.
Recommendations from this study include further research into the mental health impacts faced by obese children, which could be utilised for future campaigns. Public health campaigns should be delivered by the NHS educating parents on the importance of vitamins and supplements for children’s health. Further research could be conducted into parents knowledge of children’s nutrition, which would highlight the most efficient ways to educate parents. The Government should attempt to regulate nutrition information posted on social media, as misinformation can lead to the development of incorrect dietary habits. To ensure the success of future actions, a collaborative approach between the government, NHS, local authorities and charities is needed. Finally, the Government needs to strengthen current policy actions among the deprived communities
Evaluating telehealth: a systematic review of its effectiveness and challenges post Covid-19
No full textTelehealth has never been so popular as it has been since the start and of the COVID- 19 pandemic. Telehealth use first increased when the pandemic limited people from seeking regular healthcare services at their regular local hospitals and clinics. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness and challenges of telehealth post-COVID-19 and make a comparative analysis between telehealth and traditional in-person healthcare services. The methodology involved a comprehensive literature search, selecting studies from various databases that addressed the effectiveness and challenges of telehealth post-COVID-19. Inclusion criteria were established to ensure the relevance and quality of the selected studies, focusing on peer-reviewed articles, case studies, and reviews published between 2020 and 2025. The findings indicate that while telehealth exhibits significant potential and effectiveness for improving healthcare accessibility and efficiency and is slightly preferred to in-person healthcare services, it still faces ongoing challenges in its implementation and widespread adoption. The review highlights both the effectiveness of telehealth in various healthcare settings and the need for addressing issues related to technological infrastructure, patient privacy, technological familiarity and training to ensure its long-term success. In conclusion, while telehealth offers substantial benefits for healthcare delivery, its effectiveness is dependent upon addressing the identified challenges. The study emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach involving healthcare providers, policymakers, and technology developers to create a sustainable and equitable telehealth framework. Proper investment in technology, comprehensive training programs, and supportive policy development are crucial for overcoming the barriers to fully harnessing the benefits of telehealth in the post-COVID-19 era
A quantitative secondary data analysis to explore the socio-economic impact affecting teenage pregnancy in Nigeria
No full textBackground: This study explored the socio - economic factors affecting teenage pregnancy in Nigeria, a significant public health issue with profound implications for adolescents\u27 health, education, and economic prospects.
Methods: The study utilized secondary data analysis, drawing from a dataset of 8,760 teenage women aged 15-19 in Nigeria. Chi-square tests and logistic regression were employed to analyse the associations between teenage pregnancy and various socio-economic factors, including age, education, geopolitical zone, ethnicity, wealth index and religion. Awareness levels related to technology use and pregnancy avoidance methods were also assessed.
Results: The results revealed significant correlations between teenage pregnancy and factors such as lower educational attainment, economic status, and regional disparities. Additionally, awareness and access to technology significantly impacted pregnancy outcomes among teenage women.
Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing socio- economic disparities and enhancing awareness to mitigate teenage pregnancy in Nigeria. Recommendations for comprehensive strategies involving government and secondary education departments are provided, with a focus on policy development, sex education, and parental involvement. 
Has the prevalence of syphilis among pregnant women increased or decreased over time in Chile and in the Province of Cautin since 2017? A secondary analysis
No full textBackground: Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection, is a significant global public health issue, particularly among pregnant women due to the risk of congenital transmission. In Chile, syphilis prevalence is rising among this group. This study examines the trends in syphilis prevalence among pregnant women in Chile, focusing on the Cautín Province in La Araucanía from 2017 to 2020, and exploring associated sociodemographic factors.
Methods: A quantitative analysis of secondary data was conducted using the Monthly Statistical Summaries (REM) from Chilean public health centres. The data included results from syphilis tests (VDRL, RPR, MHA-TP) among pregnant women, categorized by year, region, age group, ethnicity, migrant status, and transgender status. The analysis explored temporal trends and the relationship between syphilis prevalence and factors such as GDP per capita, education level, and population density.
Results: The study revealed fluctuating syphilis prevalence among pregnant women in Chile from 2017 to 2020, with a rise in 2020. Significant regional disparities were noted, with Cautín Province showing high rates in the 40-49 age group, while the highest prevalence nationally was in the 50+ age group. The highest rates for migrants were in northern Chile and the capital, and Indigenous cases were more common in Araucanía and northern Chile, where the largest Mapuche and Aymara populations are located. Coquimbo and the capital had the highest rates among the transgender population. A significant correlation was found between demographic density, GDP per capita, and education level.
Conclusion: The rising syphilis prevalence among pregnant women in Chile, particularly in Cautín, presents a serious public health concern. Addressing this issue requires enhanced prenatal care, targeted public awareness campaigns, and improved surveillance systems. It is crucial to address the underlying socioeconomic and demographic factors to reduce syphilis and prevent congenital infections. Future research should explore the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on syphilis prevalence and develop strategies to improve antenatal care and screening in high-risk populations.
Factors influencing fast food consumption among international students: A quantitative research study
No full textBackground: International students face unique challenges when moving to a new country, e.g. adapting to different food cultures, dealing with financial instability, academic pressure, and homesickness. International students come from different backgrounds, and for these, changing a lifestyle and moving to a new country comes with a change in dietary patterns and fast-food consumption. This consumption can impact their health potentially impacting on cognitive function, academic performance, and dietary patterns of students. This study aims to explore the factors which influence fast food consumption among International student.
Methods: An online quantitative survey was conducted with Liverpool John Moores University international students
Results: An online survey was completed by 35 people, and the results produced several important findings. In terms of the frequency of fast-food consumption among international students, 40% consume fast food once a week and 31% consume it 2-3 times a week. The most important reasons for consuming fast food are its taste (74%), convenience and ease of access (23%) and price (28%). Male students consume fast food 2-3 times a week and females consume it once a week. Furthermore, 46% of students bring their own lunch, 31%, buy it from the supermarket, and 14% eat fast food for lunch at the university. Regarding the nutritional knowledge regarding fast food, the proportion of little and zero knowledgeable students was 43%, and 26% respectively. In terms of cost influence on their consumption, 31% responded that they consider the cost and choose cheaper options.
Conclusion: The study provided an overview of factors influencing fast food consumption patterns among international students at Liverpool John Moores University. The study also discovered several implications that need to be considered for future research e.g. the need for informational campaigns regarding fast food consumption, collaboration with campus food services and local vendors to offer culture-friendly and gender-sensitive healthy food options, awareness through social media and organising social activities that promote healthy eating. 
“It’s only a bit of weed” A critical exploration of cannabis use and young people
No full textThis dissertation aims to present an accurate representation of cannabis use among young people (under eighteen) in the United Kingdom (UK) and the effects it can have on individuals and society. Research supports that young people using cannabis is a rising health and social problem that requires rapid intervention. Findings have likened cannabis use in young people as an impending epidemic with potential negative effects including mental health crisis, a lack of educational opportunities, criminality and death. I used peer reviewed articles, empirical research studies, government legislation, government statistics, and grey literature to explore these factors. Every study I analysed acknowledged the potential negative effects cannabis use has on young people. The literature also highlighted the vulnerabilities which may arise for young people living in areas of deprivation, with parental substance abuse, the effect cannabis use can have on a young person’s education, as well as the serious links to abuse, violence, grooming and organised crime gang (OCG’s) related behaviour. ‘Labelling Theory and ‘umbrella terms’ allowed me to explain and understand how society’s labels for people can influence their behaviour. From the findings of this dissertation I found that early intervention and education are needed desperately before damage is done beyond repair. We as a nation need to sit up and take notice of what is happening around us before more young people are lost into a world of mass personal destruction, drug abuse and addiction, anti-social behaviour, the ‘hamster wheel’ of criminality, loss of opportunities and potential death. As nation we are facing significant issues which could result in further and increasing pressure on the NHS and increasing levels of mental health issues among young people if we do not act now.... it may be too late
Exploring the prevalence and impact of food poverty among university students in the UK through quantitative survey analysis
No full textOver the past few years\u27 food poverty has become an increasingly pressing issue brought to light by the current ‘cost-of-living crises’. While previous studies have addressed food poverty and the effects of rising prices on the UK population as a whole, the specific challenges being faced by students remain relatively unexplored. Understanding the true extent of the problem is critical to developing policies and support systems to alleviate the problems being faced by students. The aim of this study was to understand the prevalence and impacts of food poverty among students in the UK. The objectives of the study were to gain an overall understanding of the severity of food poverty among students, to identify the underlying causes and reasons, to assess the impact of food poverty on students\u27 health and well-being and to understand the impact food poverty has on academic performance. This quantitative study used questionnaires to gather relevant information. The questionnaire was posted online with the target population being students over the age of 18 at university in the United Kingdom. The researcher used a self-selecting sampling method to gain responses from 121 participants. The data was analysed by a researcher using Google Sheets and SPSS was used to carry out Chi-squared tests on the data. The main findings show a significant issue of food poverty among students in the UK and highlight the need for urgent policy changes and support systems to address food poverty in higher education. Many respondents to the questionnaire reported issues including worrying about running out of food or being unable to afford food, skipping meals due to financial difficulties, putting the price of food above the nutritional value of it and having to choose between buying food or paying for essentials. A small proportion of participants have also reported having to use a food bank in the past 12 months. Additionally, the questionnaire found a lack of awareness of initiatives available to support students, and some students were facing significant negative effects on academic performance as a result of food poverty. The research provides valuable insights into the experiences of food poverty among this often-overlooked demographic. However, more in-depth research is needed to gain a representative understanding of the extent of the problem across the UK. The researcher recommends the government reviews the student loan policy and increases loans in line with rising living costs and universities introduce initiatives to support students and raises awareness of food poverty issues
Screen to be seen: An empirical survey study investigating the barriers and facilitators of women in the UK attending cervical screening
No full textBackground: The proportion of women in England who have not attended cervical screening has reached its highest level in a decade. This study explores the barriers women encounter and the factors that can facilitate cervical screening attendance. Additionally, it examines whether knowledge of cervical screening is a predictor of attendance.
Methods: Participants were recruited through a voluntary online survey questionnaire. The Health Belief Model was utilised as a theoretical framework to measure attitudes and behaviours linked to cervical screening.
Results: Significant age-related differences were observed: a higher proportion of younger women (aged 25-54) agreed that they intended to attend screenings as scheduled but didn’t get around to it straight away, compared to their older counterparts (aged 55 and over). The same pattern was observed regarding agreement with the statements about difficulties in securing appointments due to work or childcare commitments and the recommendation of cervical screening for women their age. Conversely, a higher proportion of older women agreed that they had a bad experience with smear tests in the past compared to the younger counterparts. Significant associations were found relating to concerns about pain and fears regarding what a smear test might reveal. These included having had a bad experience with a smear test, feeling reassured when finding out that everything is okay, and having had a previous positive experience of a smear test. Common barrier themes identified included emotional and psychological factors, as well as issues related to healthcare professionals, GP surgeries, GP receptionists, and difficulties in securing appointments. Conversely, common facilitator themes identified included health beliefs, followed by reminders and a desire for policy change.
Conclusion: The study highlighted several major obstacles which impacted women’s participation in cervical screening. To enhance cervical screening participation, government policies should focus on health promotion campaigns which include how health beliefs can influence attendance
What is the current state of knowledge and awareness about cancer among school students in developed countries? A scoping review
No full textBackground: Cancer education plays a critical role in equipping students in developed countries with the knowledge necessary for early detection, prevention, and making informed health decisions. Despite the inclusion of health education in school curricula, there are still notable gaps in students\u27 understanding of cancer, particularly regarding the impact of lifestyle choices and the biological mechanisms underlying cancer development.
Methods: A scoping review of the literature published between 2020-2024 was undertaken in June 2024 of three key databases (Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) to identify eligible studies. Further manual reference searches and grey literature searches were also undertaken. Studies were screened by title and abstract, and then by a full text review against specific inclusion criteria. The Arksey and O’Malley five stage methodological framework for scoping reviews was followed. Extracted data was charted, categorised and narratively synthesised.
Results: A total of 1,658 journal articles were identified. After duplicates were removed, 1,107 titles and abstracts were screened, and 21 records were reviewed in full. Fourteen articles were included in the final review. While, most students have a basic awareness of cancer, there are significant misconceptions about the role of lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, in cancer prevention. The study found that interactive and engaging teaching methods, such as workshops and peer-led discussions, were more effective in enhancing students’ understanding than traditional lecture-based approaches. Programmes that integrated practical activities, like healthy cooking classes or physical activity sessions, were particularly successful in promoting behavioural changes among students. However, the study also highlighted a lack of standardized content across different programs, leading to inconsistent levels of knowledge among students from different regions.
Conclusion: This review underscores notable gaps in students\u27cancer knowledge, especially regarding lifestyle impacts on prevention. Interactive teaching methods, such as workshops and peer discussions, were found to be more effective than traditional lectures in improving understanding and encouraging healthy behaviours. The lack of standardized content across educational programmes results in uneven knowledge levels. To bridge these gaps, it is recommended to develop a standardized cancer education curriculum that emphasizes lifestyle factors and employs interactive methods. Additionally, consistent educator training and further research on the long-term efficacy of these educational strategies should be pursued. 
A systematic review of the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions among patients with tuberculosis in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs)
No full textBackground: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions in tuberculosis (TB) care programmes in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Of interest were facilitators and possible barriers to successful smoking cessation among TB patients. This review was motivated by the huge impact of smoking on TB treatment outcomes, and the possible advantages of addressing both health issues simultaneously in resource-restricted contexts.
Methods: The review employed a systematic approach using the PICO framework. The review involved a comprehensive literature search of various databases for studies conducted in LMICs on the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions for TB patients. The included studies were critically appraised using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies.
Results: A total of 10 quantitative studies were extracted for synthesis of the findings. The findings showed three main types of interventions within the review: brief advice, behavioural counselling, and pharmacological. The review demonstrated some significant findings with regard to whether different kinds of smoking cessation practice were effective within the context of care provided for those people with TB. The greatest smoking cessation rates were from combined behavioural and pharmacological interventions ranging from 45% to 77% at 6-month follow-up. Quit rates of 20% to 40% were found for behavioural support alone, with brief advice interventions finding quit rates of 15% to 39%. Several facilitators for smoking cessation activities included having engaged health workers and integrating approaches into existing TB treatment programs. Barriers to quitting included strong nicotine addiction, social norms that support smoking, and limited resources.
Conclusion: These findings have important implications for individual health outcomes as well as public health goals more broadly and suggest that smoking cessation treatment is feasible and effective among TB patients. The review also indicates that areas for further exploration including longer-term follow-up of smoking cessation outcomes, cost effectiveness, and culturally tailored intervention development in various LMICs. 
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