scholarly journals Social Inequality in Cigarette Consumption, Cigarette Dependence, and Intention to Quit among Norwegian Smokers

2015 ◽  
Vol 2015 ◽  
pp. 1-7 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marianne Lund
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Group Versus ◽  
High Income ◽  
Cigarette Consumption ◽  
Intention To Quit ◽  
Relative Risk Ratio ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Cigarette Dependence

Background. The study aim was to examine the influence of education and income on multiple measures of risk of smoking continuation.Methods. Three logistic regression models were run on cigarette consumption, dependence, and intention to quit based on nationally representative samples (2007–2012) of approximately 1 200 current smokers aged 30–66 years in Norway.Results. The relative risk ratio for current versus never smokers was RRR 5.37, 95% CI [4.26–6.77] among individuals with low educational level versus high and RRR 1.53, 95% CI [1.14–2.06] in the low-income group versus high (adjusted model). Low educational level was associated with high cigarette consumption, high cigarette dependence, and no intention to quit. The difference in predicted probability for having high cigarette consumption, high cigarette dependence, and no intention to quit were in the range of 10–20 percentage points between smokers with low versus those with high educational level. A significant difference between low- and high-income levels was observed for intention to quit. The effect of education on high consumption and dependence was mainly found in smokers with high income.Conclusion. Increased effort to combat social differences in smoking behaviour is needed. Implementation of smoking cessation programmes with high reach among low socioeconomic groups is recommended.

scholarly journals Pregnant women and risk factors: a cross-sectional study

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
V L a Fauci ◽  
R Squeri ◽  
C Genovese ◽  
V Alessi ◽  
A Facciolà
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Young Adults ◽  
Health Education ◽  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Demographic Characteristics ◽  
Alcoholic Beverages ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
High Educational

Abstract Background Many investigations have shown the important role played by risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol in the development of congenital anomalies. Methods Through the administration of an hoc questionnaire, we evaluated the attitude towards smoking and alcohol of a sample of 200 pregnant women at the University Hospital of Messina. The questionnaire was structured to collect information about socio-demographic characteristics, type of gynaecological assistance and their lifestyles (smoking and alcohol). Statistical analysis was performed using version 10 of StatSoftVR software. Results 14% of the women continued to smoke despite pregnancy; the majority of these were young adults, divorced, employed and with a high educational level. Correlating the smoking habit with the socio-demographic characteristics of the studied women, we found a statistically significant difference for the marital status, with a higher number of smokers among the single women (p < 0.05).Moreover, we found a statistically significant difference also for the profession with a higher number of smokers in the worker women (p < 0.05). About the drinking habit, the 4.3% declared to be moderate drinkers (occasional use of alcohol equal to 2-3 glasses a week) despite pregnancy, the 34.4% stated they do not drink alcohol during pregnancy and the 56% stated do not usually drink alcohol. Particularly, about the drinkers' socio-demographic characteristics, the 50% of them were 24-25 years old and the 75% were married. About the type of alcoholic beverages consumed, 86% stated they usually drink bier during the weekend. Conclusions Our study shows that the awareness of the women about the importance of these risk factors is still rather poor. In order to improve the awareness of pregnant women on the importance of avoiding these risk factors and prevent CAs, health education campaigns at various levels surely represent the public health cornerstone. Key messages In our sample 14% of the pregnant women continued to smoke and 4.3% to drink despite pregnancy and they generally were young or young adults and with a high educational level. Our results highlight the importance of continuous health education about the risk to smoke and drink during pregnancy.

Comparative Analysis of Mobile Pain Management Applications in Developed versus Developing Countries (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wilson Mupfururirwa ◽  
Victoria Nembaware ◽  
Jack Morrice ◽  
Khuthala Mnika ◽  
Gaston Kuzamunu Mazandu ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pain Management ◽  
Uniform Distribution ◽  
Mobile Health ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Cochrane Review ◽  
High Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
App Store ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Impact

BACKGROUND The impact of mobile phones and their applications in healthcare (mobile health) is well established for a range of diseases and cross-cutting complications, such as pain. While numerous mobile health (mHealth) pain interventions have been established, an evaluation of their prevalence, adequacy and distribution remains limited. OBJECTIVE This study aims at reviewing and comparing current pain management mHealth tools in high- versus low-income countries. METHODS A literature and application (app) store search was conducted in May 2021 using combinations of the following keywords: “pain management”, “pain”, “mobile health”, “telemedicine”, and “app”. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Review Library, and Google scholar. App store searches were conducted in Google Play and Apple App Store. Data characteristics descriptive analysis was performed using R software to summarize different datasets and compute p-values (P) for testing the significance of different hypotheses with the significance level set to 0.05. RESULTS The search identified 40 publications (literature search) and 230 mHealth applications (app store search), revealing a non uniform distribution of search categories (χ2= 133.7, P < 0.004) with a ratio approximating 1:6 (OR = 5.730, 95%CI:3.745-8.909, P < 0.004). About 86.7% of these 270 applications (apps) are from high-income countries, showing a statistically significant non uniform distribution of country categories: high- and low-income (χ2= 145.2, P < 0.004) approximating the theoretical distribution of a 7:1 ratio (OR = 6.476, 95%CI:4.180-10.222, P < 0.004). Moreover, there is no significant difference in the proportion of search categories between country categories ( χ2= 0.113, P = 0.737) and the difference in pain app prevalence in high- versus low-income countries is not statistically significant. Finally, we have observed that pain-tracking apps are significantly more prevalent in developed countries in comparison to low-income countries. CONCLUSIONS As expected, pain management app prevalence is higher in high-income countries. However, more research is required to readily comprehend the effectiveness of these apps.

Identifying consumers’ profile and factors associated with the valorization of pulque: A traditional fermented beverage in Central Mexico

2020 ◽  
Vol 26 (7) ◽  
pp. 593-602 ◽  
Author(s):  
Edgar Rojas-Rivas ◽  
Facundo Cuffia
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Binary Logistic Regression ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Central Mexico ◽  
Binary Logistic Regression Model ◽  
Factors Associated ◽  
Consumption Frequency ◽  
Fermented Beverage ◽  
High Educational

The aims of this work were to (i) identify the consumers’ profile of pulque through their consumption frequency and their sensory perception of this beverage and (ii) identify the factors that contribute to the valorization of pulque among Mexican consumers. A survey was designed and conducted with 221 consumers in pulque-selling locations (pulquerías) in a place of Central Mexico. Consumers were characterized according to their consumption frequency. Factors associated with the valorization of pulque were identified through Binary Logistic Regression model. Two types of consumers were identified: Frequent Consumers and Not Frequent Consumers. Both groups were comprised mostly of men, including students with medium to high levels of education. However, the first group showed more traditional and conservative behavior patterns since there was a higher proportion of consumers with a low educational level ( p < 0.05) and they had more years of consumption, spend more time in the selling locations, and preferred “natural pulque.” The second group of consumers was comprised mostly ( p < 0.05) of women, including students with a high educational level who prefer “cured pulque.” In this sense, our results showed that gender and time spent in the pulquerías together with sensory, cultural, and functional characteristics associated with the beverage influence its valorization among consumers. These results can help both producers and marketers to classify segments of consumers according to their preferences and consumption patterns in order to revalorize the pulque market. Finally, it is necessary to highlight that young consumers with high educational level show interest in this beverage, since for years its consumption has been associated with low-income populations.

scholarly journals Outcome of Tuberculosis Treatment: A Comparison between Alberta and Nicaragua

2000 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 85-88 ◽  
Author(s):  
Narmin Kassam ◽  
Anne Fanning ◽  
Jose Ramon Cruz ◽  
Alejandro Tardencilla
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
High Income ◽  
Tuberculosis Treatment ◽  
Sputum Smear ◽  
Low Income Country ◽  
National Tuberculosis Program ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
National Tuberculosis ◽  
Low Incidence ◽  
Cure Rates

OBJECTIVE: To measure the outcome of tuberculosis treatment in a low incidence, high income region, Alberta, and compare with an intermediate incidence, low income country with a model national tuberculosis program, Nicaragua.DESIGN: All 1992 sputum smear-positive pulmonary cases from both regions were included. Treatment outcome was assigned retrospectively to Alberta cases according to the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases' (IUATLD) criteria of cure, failure, transfer, absconder and death.SETTING: Alberta laboratories are required to report allMycobacterium tuberculosiscultures to Alberta provincial tuberculosis services. Nicaragua cases are reported centrally to the Programa de control de tuberculosis in Managua using the IUATLD criteria.MAIN RESULTS: In Alberta, 222 tuberculosis cases were identified, of which 61 were smear positive. Nicaragua had 1552 smear positive cases of 2885 tuberculosis cases. Alberta's outcomes were 82% cured, no failed treatment, 5% absconded, 2% transferred and 11% died; Nicaragua's outcomes were 77% cured, 2% failed, 13% absconded, 5% transferred and 4% died. There was no significant difference in cure rates between Alberta and Nicaragua, P=0.33.CONCLUSIONS: Treatment outcomes can be measured effectively and reported in high income, low incidence settings. Alberta is achieving comparable cure rates with the Nicaraguan national tuberculosis program.

scholarly journals Knowledge, false myths and beliefs on vaccines among pregnant women: results from NAVIDAD study

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (Supplement_4) ◽  
Author(s):  
M R Gualano ◽  
E Olivero ◽  
G Voglino ◽  
P Rossello ◽  
F Quattrocolo ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Web Sites ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
Vaccine Hesitancy ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Sources Of Information ◽  
Vaccination Programs ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Level Of Knowledge

Abstract Background The diffusion of false myths and vaccine hesitancy are alarming phenomena in European countries and leads to decreasing trends in infant vaccine coverages. Aim of the study was to analyse the level of confidence and correct awareness about immunization, which are crucial for the success of vaccination programs. Methods As part of the NAVIDAD multicentre study, we examined vaccination confidence and complacency, among a sample of 1820 pregnant women from 14 Italian cities. The questionnaire assessed the interviewee’s knowledge, beliefs and misconceptions, as well as their socioeconomic status, sources of information about vaccines and confidence in the Italian National Healthcare Service. Results Of the participants, only 9% of women completely believed to efficacy, necessity and safety of vaccinations. Almost 20% of them had misconceptions on the majority of the themes. There was a significant difference in level of knowledge considering educational level: women with a high educational level have less probability to obtain a low knowledge score (OR 0.43 [95%CI 0.34-0.54]). The level of knowledge was influenced also by the sources of information: women who got information from General Practitioner and from Institutional Web sites have significantly less chance to have misconceptions (OR 0.74 [95%CI 0.58-0.96]; OR 0.59 [95%CI 0.46-0.74]). Finally, results underlined the influence of trust in healthcare professional information on likelihood of having misconceptions (OR 0.49 [95%CI 0.27-0.89]). Conclusions Data suggest the efficacy of healthcare professionals and Institutional Web sites as source of information to contrast misconceptions and underline the importance of confidence in the healthcare system to increase complacency and confidence on vaccines. Key messages There is a general lack of knowledge about vaccinations among future mothers. Most of misconceptions regarding vaccinations are related to their safety: this could affect confidence and complacency. To increase vaccine confidence, there is a strong need to inform future mothers: our data show the importance and efficacy of Health Professionals and Institutional Web sites as information sources.

scholarly journals The Impact of Socio-Economical Status on the Quality of Life of Children with Asthma

2020 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 1-5
Author(s):  
Paraschiva Chereches-Panta
Keyword(s):  
Quality Of Life ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Employment Status ◽  
High Income ◽  
Study Group ◽  
High Income Group ◽  
Children With Asthma ◽  
The Impact

Low socioeconomic level may contribute to the severity of asthma, frequency of exacerbation, and hospitalization and affects the quality of life. The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) on general score of quality of life (GSQL). Methods: The study group included children aged between 8-16 years with persistent asthma, and we followed them up 12 months. We analyzed the location and the size of the household, educational level, and employment status of parents and family income. The GSQL was obtained based on the questionnaire of quality of life in children with asthma. According to the SES, we divided the study group into high income and low-income groups. Results: Half of the patients belonged to families with low income. There were no significant differences in GSQL regarding the living area, educational level, and parents' employment status. The general score of quality of life was higher in patients from the high-income group than those with lower income at the beginning of the study (5.04±1.09 versus 4.43±0.97; p=0.0101). Alter 12 months GSQL increased significantly in both groups (6.57±0.57 versus 6.49±0.56; p=0.3167). The quality of life was not affected by atopic status. Conclusions: The low income has a negative impact on children GSQL. The educational level and employment status of parents, rural area, and the association of other allergic diseases do not affect the quality of life.

scholarly journals Knowledge and beliefs on vaccines among a sample of Italian pregnant women: results from the NAVIDAD study

2019 ◽  
Vol 30 (2) ◽  
pp. 286-292 ◽  
Author(s):  
Fabrizio Bert ◽  
Elena Olivero ◽  
Paola Rossello ◽  
Maria R Gualano ◽  
Silvana Castaldi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Pregnant Women ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Vaccine Coverage ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
Vaccine Hesitancy ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Sources Of Information ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Level Of Knowledge ◽  
Institutional Websites

Abstract Background Vaccine hesitancy is an emerging phenomenon in European countries and leads to decreasing trends in infant vaccine coverage. The aim of this study was to analyze the level of confidence and correct awareness about immunizations, which are crucial for the success of vaccination programmes. Methods As part of the NAVIDAD multicentre study, we examined vaccination confidence and complacency among a sample of 1820 pregnant women from 14 Italian cities. The questionnaire assessed the interviewee's knowledge, beliefs and misconceptions, as well as their socioeconomic status, information sources about vaccines and confidence in the Italian National Healthcare Service. Results Only 9% of women completely believed to the efficacy, necessity and safety of vaccinations. Almost 20% of them had misconceptions on most of the themes. There was a significant difference in the level of knowledge considering educational level: women with a high educational level have less probability of obtaining a low knowledge score (odds ratio (OR) 0.43 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.34–0.54]). The level of knowledge was also influenced by the sources of information: women who received information from their general practitioner (GP) and from institutional websites had a significantly lower chance of having misconceptions (OR 0.74 [95% CI 0.58–0.96]; OR 0.59 [95% CI 0.46–0.74]). Finally, the results underlined the influence of trust in healthcare professional information on the likelihood of having misconceptions (OR 0.49 [95% CI 0.27–0.89]). Conclusions The data suggest the efficacy of GPs and institutional websites as a source of information to contrast misconceptions and underline the importance of confidence in the healthcare system to increase complacency and confidence in vaccines.

scholarly journals Digital technology use in ELT classrooms and self-directed learning

2016 ◽  
Vol 8 (1) ◽  
pp. 51 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nehir Sert ◽  
Ebru Boynueğri
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Digital Technology ◽  
Technology Use ◽  
High Income ◽  
Mixed Group ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Income Groups ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Directed Learning

The digital era is a new challenge for teachers. While children get acquainted with digital technology before the age of six, teachers, who have encountered the digital world at a later time in their lives, struggle with it. Self-directed learning, which is crucial for lifelong learning, can be enhanced by the use of technology within and beyond classroom settings. The aim of this study was to examine the difference between the perceptions of students in low- and high-income groups about their use of technology in a general sense and their teachers’ use of technology in ELT classrooms. It also tested the correlation between the perceptions of their self-directed learning behaviours and their own/their teachers’ technology use. The population of the study consisted of 75 students from high- and 70 students from low-income groups. Causal comparative and correlational research methods were adopted in the study. The surveys to measure the students’ perceptions about technology use were developed by the researchers. A scale, established by Demirtas and Sert (2010), was used to identify the level of self-directed learning views of the students. The data were collected at the beginning of the first term of the 2015-2016 school year. The results indicated that there was no significant difference between perceptions of the low- and high-income students regarding their own technology use. Likewise, perceptions of the low- and high-income students did not differ regarding their teachers’ technology use. There was no correlation between the perceptions of the low-/high-income mixed group regarding their use of technology and their teachers’ use of technology. Lastly, self-directed learning perceptions of the low-/high-income mixed group did not correlate with their perceptions on any aspects of technology use. The educational implications of these results were discussed and suggestions were put forward in order to produce more effective learning environments. Keywords: Digital technology, self-directed learning, ELT

scholarly journals Effectiveness of transverse speed reducers and exploring factors contributing to road traffic crashes on a rural two-lane highway: A mixed methods study

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nigus Asefa ◽  
Hannah S Yang ◽  
Znabu H Kahsay ◽  
Abrahim Hassen ◽  
Tesfay G Gebrehiwot
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Road Traffic ◽  
High Income ◽  
Low Income Countries ◽  
P Value ◽  
Interrupted Time Series Analysis ◽  
Traffic Crashes ◽  
Road Traffic Crashes ◽  
Significant Difference

Abstract Background: In Ethiopia, there are an estimated 25.3 road traffic related deaths per 100,000 population, which is much higher than the global average road traffic fatality rate. Speed is the most well-known risk factor influencing both the risk as well as the severity of the resulting injuries. Although there is paucity of data from low-income countries, speed reducers have been widely approved as an effective traffic calming countermeasure in high-income countries. We aimed to (i) explore the effectiveness of transverse vertical speed reducers and, (ii) qualitatively explore stakeholders’ perceptions of the factors that affect the risk of road traffic crashes.Methods: Data on all crashes occurring from September 2010 to August 2015 were obtained. Interrupted time series analysis using Poisson regression was used to estimate the effect of speed reducers on the number of crashes per month before and after their installation in January 2012. Focus group discussions and in-depth interviews were conducted with traffic police, drivers, drivers’ training center owners, and community members to describe their perceptions about the effects of the speed reducers. Quantitative and qualitative results were triangulated.Results: There were 130 crashes during the study period. Of these, 45.4% were property damage only, and 16.9% were fatal. After the speed reducers were installed, there was no statistically significant difference (incidence rate ratio, IRR =1.17, 95% CI[0.60-2.30], p-value =0.644) in the number of crashes per month, but there were changes in the distribution of crash severity (p-value <0.001). Four core themes, with subsequent sub-themes, emerged as perceived contributors to road traffic crashes. Of these core-themes, speedy and reckless driving, were perceived as the strongest force perpetuating road collisions. Qualitative respondents disagreed on whether the speed reducers were effective and expressed concerns such as the lack of signage to warn drivers.Conclusions: Although speed reducers are proven to reduce collisions in high-income settings, this study in Ethiopia was inconclusive. Inappropriate design for the roadway type, sporadic placement, lack of signage and maintenance, and poor stakeholder coordination may have hampered effectiveness. An evidence-based planning process prior to implementing road design interventions is recommended to achieve the desired results.

scholarly journals The Prevalence and Severity of Gingivitis in High School Students in Gaza Strip - Palestine

2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (9) ◽  
pp. 1098-1105
Author(s):  
Amjad F. H. ElShanti ◽  
Ali Aldirawi ◽  
Ashraf Mehjez ◽  
Mohammed Zaida ◽  
Ibrahim Abu Nada ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
High School ◽  
High School Students ◽  
Educational Level ◽  
Gaza Strip ◽  
High Educational Level ◽  
Gingival Index ◽  
Self Administration ◽  
School Students ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Significant Difference

Background: There are limited data about the epidemiology of gingivitis in Gaza Strip, Palestine. The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence and severity of gingivitis among high school students in Gaza strip. Methods: Cross-sectional study was conducted. A total of 408 students from both genders aged between 15-19 years old were selected from different areas of Gaza Strip by multistage sampling method (simple random for selecting the school, and stratified random sampling for student selection). Data of study were obtained through (periodontal examination kit and questionnaire). The data were collected in questionnaire filled by self-administration that consist of three sections; personal data, student general health conditions and oral hygiene practices. Before data collection, permission was obtained from the Ministry of Education. The schools were informed about the purpose of the study and its goal.  The written informed consent   from the student himself were obtained. Result: Average age of sample units was (16.92 + 0.78) years old. The percentage of males was 42.9%. According to the governorate distribution of the sample, 18.4% of them were from North Gaza, 38% were from Gaza City, while 15.4% were from Middle Camps, 18.3% from Khanyounes, and 9.8% from Rafah. The main findings of the current study revealed the prevalence rate of gingivitis among high school students was 97.1%. According to gingival index (GI), the average of GI was (1.5+0.80), where 28.5% of gingivitis cases were mild cases, while 44.5% of them were moderate, and 27% were of severe gingivitis. There was no significant difference in the average of gingival index according to gender (t=1.35, P=0.178), where the average of GI among males was (1.6+0.8), while that of females was (1.5+0.18). According to sociodemographic factors, there were no differences in averages of GI  except for governorates (F=3.7, P=0.05), and for Paternal educational level (F=3.1,P=0.027), where the highest average of GI was that of those live in Gaza city (1.63+ 0.77), and North Gaza (1.63+ 0.82) and those whose fathers of  illiteracy (1.73+ 0.95) and basic (1.66+0.78) educational levels. Moreover, there was statistically high significant direct correlation between GI and PI (R=0.63, P=0.000). Conclusion: The results of the current study revealed that GI average of high school students in North Gaza and Gaza City was the highest in Gaza Strip, and this finding need more investigation in future study to explain the reason of this significant difference in GI average according to governorates. Also, the findings of this study confirmed that the paternal educational level is considered as a risk factor for gingivitis, where the students whose fathers of low educational level have high probability to complain from gingivitis than those whose fathers of high educational level.

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