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Marcos TA, Jonas KJ, Noorman MAJ, den Daas C, de Wit JBF, Stutterheim SE. Beyond community engagement: perspectives on the meaningful involvement of people with HIV and affected communities (MIPA) in HIV cure research in The Netherlands. HIV Res Clin Pract 2024; 25:2335454. [PMID: 38577964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Meaningful involvement of people with HIV and affected communities in HIV cure research is essential to ensuring that cure research efforts are conducted transparently, socially justly, and ethically. This study set out to investigate how people with HIV and affected communities are involved in cure research in the Netherlands and explore what can be done to optimize involvement and engagement. METHODS Eighty-five semi-structured online, telephone, and face-to-face interviews were conducted with people with HIV (N = 30), key populations (N = 35), and key informants (KI; N = 20) in the field of HIV. The interviews were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Awareness of the meaningful involvement of people with HIV (MIPA) efforts was low among people with HIV and key populations, which contrasted with KI, who exhibited greater awareness. People with HIV and KI emphasized the importance of MIPA in ensuring the representation of lived experiences in HIV cure research and fostering trust between communities and researchers. Practical implementations of MIPA were unclear, ultimately resulting in difficulties defining MIPA beyond clinical trial participation. People with HIV and key populations also doubted their skills and self-efficacy to make meaningful contributions when confronted with involvement beyond participating in research and clinical trials. CONCLUSIONS MIPA is crucial for improving the quality, transparency, and ethical conduct of HIV cure research. It emphasizes the need for increased awareness and funding, standardized guidelines to ensure meaningful involvement, and combat tokenism and misconceptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamika A Marcos
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Kai J Jonas
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Maaike A J Noorman
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Chantal den Daas
- Institute of Applied Health Sciences, Health Psychology Group, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - John B F de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sarah E Stutterheim
- Department of Health Promotion and Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Day S, Tahlil KM, Shah SJ, Fidelak L, Wilson EC, Shah SK, Nwaozuru U, Chima K, Obiezu-Umeh C, Chikwari CD, Mwaturura T, Phiri N, Babatunde AO, Gbajabiamila T, Rennie S, Iwelunmor J, Ezechi O, Tucker JD. The HI V O pen Call on I nformed C onsent and E thics in Research (VOICE) for Adolescents and Young Adults: A Digital Crowdsourcing Open Call in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Sex Transm Dis 2024; 51:359-366. [PMID: 38346417 PMCID: PMC11018461 DOI: 10.1097/olq.0000000000001949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many adolescents and young adults (AYAs; 10-24 years old) are excluded from HIV research because of social, ethical, and legal challenges with informed consent, resulting in limited AYA-focused data. We use a participatory approach to identify strategies for improving AYA consent processes in HIV research in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). METHODS We conducted a digital crowdsourcing open call for ideas to improve AYA consent to HIV research in LMICs. Crowdsourcing involves engaging a group of people in problem-solving, then sharing emergent solutions. Submissions were evaluated by 3 independent judges using predefined criteria, with exceptional strategies receiving prizes. Demographic data were collected, and textual data were qualitatively analyzed for emergent themes in barriers and facilitators for improving AYA consent in HIV research, guided by a socioecological model. RESULTS We received 110 strategies total; 65 were eligible for evaluation, 25 of which were identified as finalists. Fifty-eight participants from 10 LMICs submitted the 65 eligible submissions, of which 30 (52%) were 18 to 24 years old. Thematic analysis identified 10 barriers to AYA consent, including HIV stigma, limited education, and legal/regulatory barriers. Strategies for improving AYA consent processes revealed 7 potential facilitators: enhancing AYA engagement in research, involving parents/guardians, improving education/awareness, improving institutional practices/policy, making research participation more AYA-friendly, enhancing engagement of other key communities of interest, and empowering AYA. CONCLUSIONS Diverse communities of interest in LMICs developed compelling strategies to enhance informed consent that may improve AYA inclusion in HIV research. These data will be used to develop practical guidance on improving AYA consent processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzanne Day
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kadija M. Tahlil
- Department of Epidemiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Sonam J. Shah
- Institute of Global Health and Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Lauren Fidelak
- Current undergraduate student (degree not yet granted) in the Department of Health Behavior, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Erin C. Wilson
- San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Seema K. Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Ann and Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Ucheoma Nwaozuru
- Department of Implementation Science, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Kelechi Chima
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Chisom Obiezu-Umeh
- Department of Behavioral Science & Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Chido Dziva Chikwari
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
- Biomedical Research and Training Institute, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | | | - Nomsa Phiri
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja, Kenya
| | | | - Titilola Gbajabiamila
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
- Department of Behavioral Science & Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Stuart Rennie
- Department of Social Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- UNC Center for Bioethics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Juliet Iwelunmor
- Department of Behavioral Science & Health Education, College for Public Health and Social Justice, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Oliver Ezechi
- Clinical Sciences Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Joseph D. Tucker
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
- Clinical Research Department, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Mac Fadden I, Cocchioni R, Delgado-Serrano MM. A Co-Created Assessment Framework to Measure Inclusive Health and Wellbeing in a Vulnerable Context in the South of Europe. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:510. [PMID: 38673421 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Rapid urbanisation exacerbates health and wellbeing disparities in vulnerable contexts and underscores the imperative need to develop innovative and participatory co-creation approaches to understand and address the specificities of these contexts. This paper presents a method to develop an assessment framework that integrates top-down dimensions with bottom-up perspectives to monitor the impact of inclusive health and wellbeing interventions tailored to the neighbourhood's needs in Las Palmeras, a vulnerable neighbourhood in Cordoba (Spain). Drawing upon studies in the literature examining urban health and wellbeing trends, it delineates a participatory and inclusive framework, emphasising the need for context-specific indicators and assessment tools. Involving diverse stakeholders, including residents and professionals, it enriches the process and identifies key indicators and assessment methods. This approach provides valuable insights for managing innovative solutions, aligning them with local expectations, and measuring their impact. It contributes to the discourse on inclusive urban health by advocating for participatory, context-specific strategies and interdisciplinary collaboration. While not universally applicable, the framework offers a model for health assessment in vulnerable contexts, encouraging further development of community-based tools for promoting inclusive wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isotta Mac Fadden
- Department of Agriculture Economics, Universidad de Córdoba, E-14005 Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - María Mar Delgado-Serrano
- WEARE Research Group, Department of Agriculture Economics, Universidad de Córdoba, E-14005 Córdoba, Spain
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Saikia M, Lassi ZS, McCall AL. Editorial: Developing strategies to improve diabetes management in college-going young adults. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1402133. [PMID: 38660515 PMCID: PMC11039824 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1402133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mridusmita Saikia
- Meinig School of Biomedical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Zohra S. Lassi
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Anthony L. McCall
- University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, United States
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Stover J, Avadhanula L, Sood S. A review of strategies and levels of community engagement in strengths-based and needs-based health communication interventions. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1231827. [PMID: 38655513 PMCID: PMC11035763 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1231827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Community engagement is key in health communication interventions that seek to incorporate community voices in their planning and implementation. Understanding what approaches and strategies are currently being used can help tailor programs in different social and cultural contexts. This review explores needs-based and strengths-based approaches and consensus and conflict strategies in community-based global health communications programs. Our objective is to examine the current state of the field, outline lessons learned, and identify gaps in existing programming to help guide future interventions. Methods PubMed and Web of Science were searched for articles published between 2010 and 2023. Studies were included if they described a community-based health communication intervention and an ongoing or completed implementation. Interventions were coded then categorized according to their level of community engagement and as single, hybrid, or complex, depending upon the number of approaches and strategies used. Results The search yielded 678 results and 42 were included in the final review and analysis. A vast majority 34 (81.0%) interventions utilized a needs-based approach and 24 (57.1%) utilized a strengths-based approach. Consensus as a strategy was utilized in 38 (90.5%) of the manuscripts and 9 (21.4%) implemented a conflict strategy. Interventions that combined approaches and strategies were more likely to leverage a higher level of community engagement. Conclusion These results showcase the complicated nature of global health communication program planning and implementation. There is a lack of interventions that use conflict as a strategy to empower communities to act on their own behalf, even when at odds with existing power structures. Complex interventions that include all approaches and strategies demonstrate the potential for global health communication interventions to be at the cutting edge of public health practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Stover
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Laxmisupriya Avadhanula
- Department of Community Health and Prevention, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Suruchi Sood
- Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs, Department of Health Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Kim KK, Backonja U. Perspectives of community-based organizations on digital health equity interventions: a key informant interview study. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:929-939. [PMID: 38324738 PMCID: PMC10990549 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocae020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health and healthcare are increasingly dependent on internet and digital solutions. Medically underserved communities that experience health disparities are often those who are burdened by digital disparities. While digital equity and digital health equity are national priorities, there is limited evidence about how community-based organizations (CBOs) consider and develop interventions. METHODS We conducted key informant interviews in 2022 purposively recruiting from health and welfare organizations engaged in digital equity work. Nineteen individuals from 13 organizations serving rural and/or urban communities from the local to national level participated in semi-structured interviews via Zoom regarding their perspectives on digital health equity interventions. Directed content analysis of verbatim interview transcripts was conducted to identify themes. RESULTS Themes emerged at individual, organizational, and societal levels. Individual level themes included potential benefits from digital health equity, internet access challenges, and the need for access to devices and digital literacy. Organizational level themes included leveraging community assets, promising organizational practices and challenges. For the societal level, the shifting complexity of the digital equity ecosystem, policy issues, and data for needs assessment and evaluation were described. Several example case studies describing these themes were provided. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Digital health equity interventions are complex, multi-level endeavors. Clear elucidation of the individual, organizational, and societal level factors that may impact digital health equity interventions are necessary to understanding if and how CBOs participate in such initiatives. This study presents unique perspectives directly from CBOs driving programs in this new arena of digital health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine K Kim
- MITRE Corporation, Health Innovation Center, McLean, VA 22102, United States
- Department of Public Health Sciences/Division of Health Informatics, School of Medicine, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, United States
| | - Uba Backonja
- MITRE Corporation, Health Innovation Center, McLean, VA 22102, United States
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Hossain MJ, Das M, Islam MW, Shahjahan M, Ferdous J. Community engagement and social participation in dengue prevention: A cross-sectional study in Dhaka City. Health Sci Rep 2024; 7:e2022. [PMID: 38572117 PMCID: PMC10987789 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Dengue is a major public health concern in Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess the perceptions and practices of community members in Dhaka regarding community engagement and social participation for dengue prevention. Methods A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Dhaka City from May 2022 to December 2022. The respondents were randomly selected. The association between community participation and prevention practices was tested using the χ 2 test. Results The findings of this study indicate that the majority of participants (92%) believed that community effort would be relied upon in the event of a dengue outbreak. Environmental cleaning campaigns were the preferred approach, and religious leaders viewed them positively. This study also revealed significant variations in knowledge levels, with those involved in community efforts and mass gatherings demonstrating greater knowledge. This study sheds light on the demographic factors that influence dengue knowledge and provides valuable insights into the development of targeted public health interventions. Conclusion The study revealed negative perceptions and limited participation in dengue prevention among participants, with the majority demonstrating a poor understanding of preventive measures. While some showed positive attitudes towards community engagement, significant disparities existed in participation, highlighting the need for targeted educational campaigns and enhanced community mobilization efforts. Moreover, the importance of multisectoral collaboration is emphasized, underscoring the need for coordinated efforts among health departments, NGOs, religious institutions, and community leaders to effectively combat dengue transmission. Recommendations include ongoing educational initiatives, targeted interventions to promote community involvement, and fostering collaboration across sectors to strengthen dengue prevention efforts and to safeguard public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Jubayer Hossain
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health InnovationResearch, Action, and Learning—Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh)DhakaBangladesh
| | - Manisha Das
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health InnovationResearch, Action, and Learning—Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh)DhakaBangladesh
- Dhaka Medical College and HospitalDhakaBangladesh
| | - Md Wahidul Islam
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health InnovationResearch, Action, and Learning—Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh)DhakaBangladesh
- Department of MicrobiologyJagannath UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Muhibullah Shahjahan
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health InnovationResearch, Action, and Learning—Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh)DhakaBangladesh
- Department of MicrobiologyJagannath UniversityDhakaBangladesh
| | - Jannatul Ferdous
- Population Health Studies Division, Center for Health InnovationResearch, Action, and Learning—Bangladesh (CHIRAL Bangladesh)DhakaBangladesh
- Department of MicrobiologyJagannath UniversityDhakaBangladesh
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Ghazal LV, Johnston H, Dodd E, Ramachandra Y, Giallourakis N, Fulginiti K, Kamen C. A Needs Assessment Approach for Adolescent and Young Adult Sexual and Gender Diverse Cancer Survivors. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2024; 21:424. [PMID: 38673335 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21040424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Sexual and gender diverse (SGD) adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors are an increasing and vulnerable group with unique needs that often remain unmet in the healthcare system. This paper describes the conceptualization and development of a community-based organization dedicated to serving SGD AYAs, in addition to reporting on the results of a community-led needs assessment. A total of 56 SGD AYA community members completed the online survey. Most participants were between the ages of 26 to 33, identified as white, cisgender, bisexual women, and had hematologic malignancies. Identified unmet needs of SGD AYAs included the following: sexual health and family planning; gender affirmation; financial stability; and emotional support. Areas within the community organization were identified as gaps, areas of expansion, and assets. Results highlight the role of community and academic partnerships in improving cancer care delivery for SGD AYA cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren V Ghazal
- School of Nursing, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
| | - Hailey Johnston
- Escape, Lansing, MI 48915, USA
- School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Charles Kamen
- Wilmot Cancer Institute, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
- Department of Surgery, Cancer Control, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Agley J, Henderson C, Seo DC, Parker M, Golzarri-Arroyo L, Dickinson S, Tidd D. The Feasibility of Using the National PulsePoint Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Responder Network to Facilitate Overdose Education and Naloxone Distribution: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e57280. [PMID: 38551636 PMCID: PMC11015366 DOI: 10.2196/57280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Revised: 02/27/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, is a critical component of the US response to fatal opioid-involved overdoses. The importance and utility of naloxone in preventing fatal overdoses have been widely declaimed by medical associations and government officials and are supported by strong research evidence. Still, there are gaps in the current US national strategy because many opioid-involved overdose fatalities have no evidence of naloxone administration. Improving the likelihood that naloxone will be used to prevent fatal overdoses is predicated on facilitating an environment wherein naloxone is available near each overdose and can be accessed by someone who is willing and able to use it. How to accomplish this on a national scale has been unclear. However, there exists a national network of >1 million cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) layperson responders and 4800 emergency responder agencies linked through a mobile phone app called PulsePoint Respond. PulsePoint responders certify that they are trained to administer CPR and are willing to respond to possible cardiac events in public. When such an event occurs near their mobile phone's location, they receive an alert to respond. These motivated citizens are ideally positioned to carry naloxone and reverse overdoses that occur in public. OBJECTIVE This randomized controlled trial will examine the feasibility of recruiting first responder agencies and layperson CPR responders who already use PulsePoint to obtain overdose education and carry naloxone. METHODS This will be a 3-arm parallel-group randomized controlled trial. We will randomly select 180 first responder agencies from the population of agencies contracting with the PulsePoint Foundation. The 3 study arms will include a standard recruitment arm, a misperception-correction recruitment arm, and a control arm (1:1:1 allocation, with random allocation stratified by zip code designation [rural or nonrural]). We will study agency recruitment and, among the agencies we successfully recruit, responder certification of receiving overdose and naloxone education, carrying naloxone, or both. Hypothesis 1 contrasts agency recruitment success between arms 1 and 2, and hypothesis 2 contrasts the ratios of layperson certification across all 3 arms. The primary analyses will be a logistic regression comparing the recruitment rates among the arms, adjusting for rural or nonrural zip code designation. RESULTS This study was reviewed by the Indiana University Institutional Review Board (20218 and 20219). This project was funded beginning September 14, 2023, by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. CONCLUSIONS The hypotheses in this study will test whether a specific type of messaging is particularly effective in recruiting agencies and layperson responders. Although we hypothesize that arm 2 will outperform the other arms, our intention is to use the best-performing approach in the next phase of this study if any of our approaches demonstrates feasibility. TRIAL REGISTRATION OSF Registries osf.io/egn3z; https://osf.io/egn3z. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) PRR1-10.2196/57280.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Agley
- Prevention Insights, Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Cris Henderson
- Prevention Insights, Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Dong-Chul Seo
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Maria Parker
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Lilian Golzarri-Arroyo
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Stephanie Dickinson
- Biostatistics Consulting Center, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - David Tidd
- Prevention Insights, Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health Bloomington, Indiana University Bloomington, Bloomington, IN, United States
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Ban A, Shrestha A, Van den Berk-Clark C, Ballard J, Logan R, Logan T, Francioni A, Murray M, Baker EA. Through the eyes of community health workers: what was needed to increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the Missouri Southeast region. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1286177. [PMID: 38601509 PMCID: PMC11004485 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1286177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Public health emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, elucidate the strengths, weaknesses, and significant gaps in infrastructure, compatibility and consistency in communication systems, as well as the quality of collaborative relationships, and provider and workforce capacity. They also expose longstanding patterns of mistrust in the government and healthcare systems, and inadequacy in socio-economic infrastructures. These issues resulted in higher COVID-19 infection and mortality rates, and lower vaccination rates in many rural counties across the nation, including Missouri. In response to these challenges, the COVID-19 Response Network was formed in the Southeast corner of the state. The Network was a community-academic partnership that brought together community and faith-based leaders, academicians, healthcare providers and administrators, public health practitioners, and pharmacists to facilitate collaboration on education and outreach efforts aimed at reducing vaccine inequity in the 16-county project area. Importantly, the Network also included Community Health Workers (CHWs) who worked with these different agencies and organizations and were at the heart of implementing Network activities. The intent of this study was to assess their perspectives on the factors that influenced community engagement and communication strategies, and increased vaccine uptake in rural Missouri. Qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, were used to explore the professional and personal experiences of CHWs working at the grassroots level during an ongoing pandemic. Narrative analysis revealed effective communication and engagement strategies for increasing vaccine uptake in rural communities. For instance, fear-based messaging was perceived as coercive and met with resistance. In contrast, messages that shared personal experiences and catered to the human need to protect their loved ones were more effective. Trust in the source of information was critical. This study highlights the significance of exploring and leveraging the capacities of trusted community members like CHWs to increase the effectiveness of public health interventions in rural communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anusha Ban
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | - Ashish Shrestha
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, United States
| | | | | | | | - Tripp Logan
- L and S Pharmacy, Charleston, MO, United States
| | | | - Megan Murray
- Southeastern Missouri Area Health Education Center, Poplar Bluff, MO, United States
| | - Elizabeth A. Baker
- College for Public Health and Social Justice, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, MO, United States
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Sheth AN, Dixon Diallo D, Ellison C, Er DL, Ntukogu A, Komro KA, Sales JM. Applying an Evidence-Based Community Organizing Approach to Strengthen HIV Prevention for Cisgender Women in US South: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e56293. [PMID: 38517456 PMCID: PMC10998174 DOI: 10.2196/56293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most new HIV diagnoses among cisgender women in the United States occur in the South. HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a cornerstone of the federal Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) initiative, remains underused by cisgender women who may benefit. Awareness and access to PrEP remain low among cisgender women. Moreover, improving PrEP reach among cisgender women requires effectively engaging communities in the development of appropriate and acceptable patient-centered PrEP care approaches to support uptake. In a community-clinic-academic collaboration, this protocol applies an evidence-based community organizing approach (COA) to increase PrEP awareness and reach among cisgender women in Atlanta. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to use and evaluate a COA for engaging community members across 4 Atlanta counties with high-priority EHE designation, to increase PrEP awareness, interest, and connection to PrEP care among cisgender women. METHODS The COA, consisting of 6 stages, will systematically develop the skills of community members to become leaders and advocates for HIV prevention inclusive of PrEP for cisgender women in their communities. We will use the evidence-based COA to develop and implement a PrEP-specific action plan to create broader community change by raising awareness and interest in PrEP, reducing stigma associated with HIV or PrEP, and connecting women to sexual health clinics providing PrEP services. In the first 4 stages, to prepare for and develop action plans, we will gather data from one-on-one interviews with up to 100 individuals across Atlanta to capture attitudes, motivations, and influences related to women's sexual health with a focus on HIV prevention and PrEP. Informed by the community interviews, we will revise a sexual health curriculum inclusive of PrEP and community-centered engagement. We will then recruit and train community action team members to develop action plans to implement the curriculum during community-located events. In the last 2 stages, we will implement and evaluate COA's effect on PrEP awareness, interest, HIV or PrEP stigma, and connection to PrEP care among cisgender women community members. RESULTS This project was funded by the National Institutes of Health and approved by the Emory University institutional review board in July 2021. Data collection began in December 2021 and is ongoing. COA stage 1 of the study is complete with 70 participants enrolled. Community events commenced in November 2023, and data collection will be completed by November 2025. Stage 1 qualitative data analysis is complete with results to be published in 2024. Full study results are anticipated to be reported in 2026. CONCLUSIONS Through a community-clinic-academic collaboration, this protocol proposes to mount a coordinated approach across diverse Atlanta counties to strengthen HIV prevention for cisgender women and to create a sustainable systems approach to move new sexual health innovations more quickly to cisgender women. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/56293.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anandi N Sheth
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Ponce de Leon Center, Grady Health System, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Celeste Ellison
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Deja L Er
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | - Kelli A Komro
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Department of Epidemiology, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jessica M Sales
- Department of Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences, Emory University Rollins School of Public Health, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Moore R, Callaghan-Koru J, Vincenzo JL, Patton SK, Spear MJ, Riklon S, Alik E, Padilla Ramos A, Takamaru S, McElfish PA, Curran GM. External relationships as implementation determinants in community-engaged, equity-focused COVID-19 vaccination events. Front Health Serv 2024; 4:1338622. [PMID: 38533190 PMCID: PMC10964718 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2024.1338622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Background While relationships and connectedness among organizations have been included in implementation theories, models, and frameworks, the increased attention to health equity in implementation science raises the urgency of understanding the role of relationships external to the implementing organization. This paper addresses this gap through an exploration of the role of external relationships in community-based, equity-focused interventions. Methods This study focuses on an equity-focused, community-based COVID-19 vaccination intervention in Arkansas, drawing upon long-term community-engaged relationships among University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the Hispanic and Marshallese Islander communities. We used an exploratory qualitative descriptive design to examine barriers and facilitators to implementation of COVID-19 vaccination events analyzing in-depth qualitative interviews with implementation team members (n = 17). Results All participants described pre-existing relationships among the implementing organization, partner organizations, and communities as a key implementation determinant for this equity-focused program. At the inter-organizational level, external relationships included formal connections and informal relationships among staff (e.g., communication channels from prior partnerships). At the individual level, strong external relationships with the community were facilitators leveraging long-term engagement, community familiarity, and staff from the communities of focus. Strong external relationships facilitated program reach in underserved communities through three mechanisms: (1) reduced time required to establish functional working relationships among partners; (2) accessibility and cultural congruence of health services; and (3) increased trust among community members. Barriers to implementation also existed in external relationships, but had less influence than facilitators. Conclusions Achieving health equity in implementation science requires greater understanding of external relationships as implementation determinants. This exploratory study makes a significant contribution to the literature by describing the types of external relationships that facilitate equitable implementation and identifying the mechanisms through which they may work. We argue that approaches to community engagement drawn from community-engaged research approaches may be useful, as these processes require investment in building/maintaining formal and informal organizational and interpersonal relationships. Further research is needed to understand connections among external relationships and other implementation determinants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramey Moore
- Office of Community Health and Research, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, United States
| | - Jennifer Callaghan-Koru
- Office of Community Health and Research, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Vincenzo
- Geriatrics, College of Health Professions, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Susan K. Patton
- Nursing, College of Education and Health Professions, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Marissa J. Spear
- Office of Community Health and Research, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, United States
| | - Sheldon Riklon
- Department of Family Medicine, Family Medicine Residency Training Program, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Eldon Alik
- Consulate General of Arkansas, Republic of the Marshall Islands, Springdale, AR, United States
| | - Alan Padilla Ramos
- Department of Family Medicine, Family Medicine Residency Training Program, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | | | - Pearl A. McElfish
- Office of Community Health and Research, College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Northwest, Springdale, AR, United States
| | - Geoffrey M. Curran
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
- Center for Mental Healthcare and Outcomes Research, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, North Little Rock, AR, United States
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13
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Kjerland TM, Schroeder S, Tofaeono V, Walls M, Gone JP. Increased community engagement of Indigenous Peoples in dementia research leads to higher context relevance of results. Dementia (London) 2024:14713012241233651. [PMID: 38445447 DOI: 10.1177/14713012241233651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Health research that focuses on Indigenous Peoples must ensure that the community in question is actively engaged, and that the results have context relevance for Indigenous Peoples. Context relevance is "the benefits, usability, and respectful conduct of research from the perspective of Indigenous communities." The purpose of this study was to apply two tools within an already-published scoping review of 76 articles featuring research on cognitive impairment and dementia among Indigenous Peoples worldwide. One tool assessed levels of community engagement reported in the corpus, and the other tool assessed the context relevance of recommendations in the corpus. We hypothesized that research with higher levels of reported community engagement would produce recommendations with greater context relevance for Indigenous Peoples. METHODS We employed semi-structured deductive coding using two novel tools assessing levels of reported community engagement and context relevance of recommendations based on studies included in the existing scoping review. RESULTS Application of the two tools revealed a positive relationship between increasing community engagement and greater context relevance. Community engagement primarily occurred in studies conducted with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis populations in Canada and with Australian Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Research with Alaska Native, American Indian, and Native Hawaiian Peoples in the USA stood out for its comparative lack of meaningful community engagement. DISCUSSION There is opportunity to utilize these tools, and the results of this assessment, to enhance training and mentorship for researchers who work with Indigenous populations. There is a need to increase investigator capacity to involve communities throughout all phases of research, particularly in the pre-research stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tonya M Kjerland
- Department of Indigenous Health, University of North Dakota, USA
| | | | | | - Melissa Walls
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA
| | - Joseph P Gone
- Department of Anthropology, Harvard University, USA
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, USA
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14
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Pasetto R, Marsili D. [A top-down path to promote environmental justice in a contaminated area. The experience with the community of Porto Torres (Sardinia, Italy)]. Epidemiol Prev 2024; 48:In press. [PMID: 38595314 DOI: 10.19191/ep24.2.a687.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Nowadays, in Italy, researchers from various disciplines and institutions are referring to environmental justice to promote health equity in relation to environmental risks and benefits. This presents an opportunity for the convergence of bottom-up and top-down perspectives, which differ in nature, to advance environmental justice at the local level. This contribution presents the experience of researchers from the Italian National Institute of Health in the contaminated area of Porto Torres (Sardinia). The experience began with the development of study activities aimed at describing the health profile of the population residing in Porto Torres. These activities embraced the requests of the local community and included interactions with local institutional and social actors. The study activities were designed with a focus on environmental justice, which requires an understanding of the local context and of its history. The contribution describes the various stages that led from the development of the study to the engagement with local institutional and social actors, communication of study results, and participation in local initiatives on environmental justice. Finally, the text proposes some considerations on how researchers from a central institution can develop and conduct study activities to promote environmental justice at the local level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Pasetto
- Dipartimento Ambiente e Salute, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma;
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health in Contaminated Sites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma
| | - Daniela Marsili
- Dipartimento Ambiente e Salute, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health in Contaminated Sites, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Roma
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West NT, Harmon BE, Rawlett KE, Short SJ, Spanier AJ, Mathews S, Kimble K, McGehee C, Ratliff ML, Puett RC. Perceptions of mindfulness practices as a support for individuals managing caregiving responsibilities and chronic disease: A qualitative study. Chronic Illn 2024; 20:159-172. [PMID: 37077138 DOI: 10.1177/17423953231170401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Explore the lived experience of individuals managing and/or caregiving for someone with a chronic disease and their perceptions of developing a mindfulness program for stress reduction. METHODS Sixteen participants with chronic disease and/or caregivers participated. Participants completed eligibility screening, demographic questionnaires, and semi-structured interviews (30-60 min each) online or by phone. Interviews (n = 16) were audio recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis and NVivo® 12. Survey data were analyzed using SPSS® 28. RESULTS Four themes emerged: (a) Chronic disease management and stress-perspectives on life's stressors; (b) Stress reduction techniques/perceptions of mindfulness-knowledge and implementation of stress reduction practices and familiarity with mindfulness; (c) Mindfulness program acceptability, barriers, and facilitators-interest, barriers, and facilitators to attending; (d) Mindfulness program structure-logistics to increase access and appeal to diverse audiences. DISCUSSION Mindfulness has the potential for addressing the complexities of stress associated with disease management. Targeting mindfulness programs for populations with chronic disease management and caregiving responsibilities should include: Consideration of group formats with participation limited to this population, structuring programs to overcome barriers (i.e., culturally appropriate location), and equipping members of the community being served as instructors to ensure culturally relevant instruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan T West
- Institute of Social and Economic Research, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - Brook E Harmon
- Department of Nutrition and Health Care Management, Beaver College of Health Sciences, Appalachian State University, Boone, NC, USA
| | - Kristen E Rawlett
- Department of Family and Community Health, School of Nursing, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sarah J Short
- Department of Educational Psychology, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Adam J Spanier
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of General Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Shifali Mathews
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
| | | | - Chad McGehee
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Athletics, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Macy L Ratliff
- Center for Healthy Minds, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Robin C Puett
- Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health, School of Public Health, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA
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Sanchez-Cespedes LM, Leasure DR, Tejedor-Garavito N, Amaya Cruz GH, Garcia Velez GA, Mendoza AE, Marín Salazar YA, Esch T, Tatem AJ, Ospina Bohórquez M. Social cartography and satellite-derived building coverage for post-census population estimates in difficult-to-access regions of Colombia. Popul Stud (Camb) 2024; 78:3-20. [PMID: 36977422 DOI: 10.1080/00324728.2023.2190151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
Effective government services rely on accurate population numbers to allocate resources. In Colombia and globally, census enumeration is challenging in remote regions and where armed conflict is occurring. During census preparations, the Colombian National Administrative Department of Statistics conducted social cartography workshops, where community representatives estimated numbers of dwellings and people throughout their regions. We repurposed this information, combining it with remotely sensed buildings data and other geospatial data. To estimate building counts and population sizes, we developed hierarchical Bayesian models, trained using nearby full-coverage census enumerations and assessed using 10-fold cross-validation. We compared models to assess the relative contributions of community knowledge, remotely sensed buildings, and their combination to model fit. The Community model was unbiased but imprecise; the Satellite model was more precise but biased; and the Combination model was best for overall accuracy. Results reaffirmed the power of remotely sensed buildings data for population estimation and highlighted the value of incorporating local knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Douglas Ryan Leasure
- Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science, University of Oxford
- WorldPop, University of Southampton
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Udoh MO, Mian Z, Anakwenze L, Okeke C, Ziegler C, Sawning S. Grow502: Centering Community in Medical Education via a Student-Created Organization Focused on Cultivating a Healthy Community. Health Promot Pract 2024; 25:173-177. [PMID: 36511091 PMCID: PMC9749053 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221136533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to disproportionately impact communities of color and expose health inequities. Minoritized communities experience disparities in chronic diseases, premature death, and cancer, and gaps continue to widen; systemic injustice in housing, nutrition, and environment are major contributors. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial justice movement, students at the University of Louisville School of Medicine created Grow502 to speak truth to the challenges of health disparities in Louisville, Kentucky. The goal was to pursue a healthier community by raising awareness. Community leaders and health professionals provided expert consultation. This partnership led to the co-creation of a curriculum focused on education, advocacy, community engagement, and creative media. Grow502 sought to support communities impacted by injustices due to racism, limited health literacy, redlining, and limited green space by creating programming centered on education and empowerment. Effective strategies to reduce disparities involve creating interventions with authentic engagement and context. Grow502 involves community stakeholders as active partners. We continue to intentionally seek effective collaborations and interventions that merge our mission and our diverse communities impacted by health disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Onu Udoh
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Zoha Mian
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Lisa Anakwenze
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | - Craig Ziegler
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Susan Sawning
- University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, USA
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Scheffey K, Avelis J, Patel M, Oon AL, Evans C, Glanz K. Use of Community Engagement Studios to Adapt a Hybrid Effectiveness-Implementation Study of Social Incentives and Physical Activity for the STEP Together Study. Health Promot Pract 2024; 25:285-292. [PMID: 35899691 PMCID: PMC10183149 DOI: 10.1177/15248399221113863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Physical activity is known to contribute to good health, but most adults in the United States do not meet recommended physical activity guidelines. Social incentive interventions that leverage insights from behavioral economics have increased physical activity in short-term trials, but there is limited evidence of their effectiveness in community settings or their long-term effectiveness. The STEP Together study is a Hybrid Type 1 effectiveness-implementation study to address these evidence and implementation gaps. This paper describes the process of adapting study procedures prior to the effectiveness trial using Community Engagement (CE) Studios, facilitated meetings during which community members provide feedback on research projects. Six CE Studios were held with community members from the priority population. They were conducted remotely because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Fifteen liaisons representing 13 community organizations and 21 community members from different neighborhoods in Philadelphia participated. Three elements of the study design were modified based on feedback from the CE Studios: lowering the age requirement for an 'older adult', clarifying the definition of family members to include second-degree relatives, and adding a 6-month survey. These adaptations will improve the fit of the effectiveness trial to the local context and improve participant engagement and retention. CE Studios can be used to adapt intervention strategies and other aspects of study design during hybrid implementation-effectiveness trials. This approach was successfully used with remote online participation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and serves as a model for future community-engaged implementation research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jade Avelis
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Mitesh Patel
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Ascension Health, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Ai Leen Oon
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Karen Glanz
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Thompson CL, Buchanan AH, Myers R, Weinberg DS. Integrating primary care, shared decision making, and community engagement to facilitate equitable access to multi-cancer early detection clinical trials. Front Oncol 2024; 13:1307459. [PMID: 38486933 PMCID: PMC10937460 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2023.1307459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Effective implementation of cancer screening programs can reduce disease-specific incidence and mortality. Screening is currently recommended for breast, cervical, colorectal and lung cancer. However, initial and repeat adherence to screening tests in accordance with current guidelines is sub-optimal, with the lowest rates observed in historically underserved groups. If used in concert with recommended cancer screening tests, new biospecimen-based multi-cancer early detection (MCED) tests could help to identify more cancers that may be amendable to effective treatment. Clinical trials designed to assess the safety and efficacy of MCED tests to assess their potential for reducing cancer mortality are needed and many are underway. In the conduct of MCED test trials, it is crucial that participant recruitment efforts successfully engage participants from diverse populations experiencing cancer disparities. Strategic partnerships involving health systems, clinical practices, and communities can increase the reach of MCED trial recruitment efforts among populations experiencing disparities. This goal can be achieved by developing health system-based learning communities that build understanding of and trust in biomedical research; and by applying innovative methods for identifying eligible trial patients, educating potential participants about research trials, and engaging eligible individuals in shared decision making (SDM) about trial participation. This article describes how a developing consortium of health systems has used this approach to encourage the uptake of cancer screening in a wide range of populations and how such a strategy can facilitate the enrollment of persons from diverse patient and community populations in MCED trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl L. Thompson
- Penn State Cancer Institute, Department of Public Health Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, United States
| | - Adam H. Buchanan
- Department of Genomic Health, Geisinger, Danville, PA, United States
| | - Ronald Myers
- Division of Population Science Department of Medical Oncology, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - David S. Weinberg
- Department of Medicine, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
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de Lange S, Muller D, Dafkin C. Biomedical research on autism in low- and middle-income countries: Considerations from the South African context. Dev World Bioeth 2024. [PMID: 38408201 DOI: 10.1111/dewb.12446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social/communicative difficulties and perseverative behaviours. While research on autism has flourished recently, few studies have been conducted on the disorder in non-Western contexts. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), biomedical research on autism is required to better understand the needs of the population and to develop contextually appropriate interventions. However, autistic individuals are a vulnerable study population and LMICs present with various considerations. While the presentation of autism is heterogeneous, stigma is a common social consequence affecting research. Drawing specifically on the South African context, the ethical intersections of these issues are discussed, along with the limitations of the current informed consent process. Community engagement is recommended as an adjunct to informed consent to ensure that biomedical research is conducted in a more inclusive way. Practical pointers are provided for implementing systematic support for conducting community engagement alongside biomedical research.
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Gašparová K, Fennessy J, Moussa Zabeirou AR, Abagana AL, Rabeil T, Brandlová K. Saving the Last West African Giraffe Population: A Review of Its Conservation Status and Management. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:702. [PMID: 38473087 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The West African giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis peralta) was historically spread across much of the Sudano-Sahelian zone but is now restricted to Niger. Several factors resulted in their dramatic decline during the late 20th century. In 1996, only 49 individuals remained, concentrated in the 'Giraffe Zone'. Conservation activities implemented by the Government of Niger, supported by local communities and NGOs, facilitated their population numbers to increase. This review summarizes past and present conservation activities and evaluates their impact to advise and prioritize future conservation actions for the West African giraffe. The long-term conservation of the West African giraffe is highly dependent on the local communities who live alongside them, as well as supplementary support from local and international partners. Recent conservation initiatives range from community-based monitoring to the fitting of GPS satellite tags to better understand their habitat use, spatial movements to expansion areas, and environmental education to the establishment of the first satellite population of West African giraffe in Gadabedji Biosphere Reserve, the latter serving as a flagship for the future restoration of large mammal populations in West Africa. The integration of modern technologies and methods will hopefully provide better-quality data, improved spatial analyses, and greater understanding of giraffe ecology to inform the long-term management of West African giraffe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kateřina Gašparová
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Julian Fennessy
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, Windhoek 10009, Namibia
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, University College Dublin, D04 V1W8 Dublin, Ireland
| | - Abdoul Razack Moussa Zabeirou
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation, Windhoek 10009, Namibia
| | - Ali Laouel Abagana
- Project Sustainable Management of Biodiversity, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development, Niamey 920001, Niger
| | - Thomas Rabeil
- Wild Africa Conservation, Kouara Kano, BP32, Niamey 920001, Niger
| | - Karolína Brandlová
- Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00 Prague, Czech Republic
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Awasthi KR, Jancey J, Clements ACA, Rai R, Leavy JE. Community engagement approaches for malaria prevention, control and elimination: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e081982. [PMID: 38365295 PMCID: PMC10875526 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-081982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Globally malaria programmes have adopted approaches to community engagement (ACE) to design and deliver malaria interventions. This scoping review aimed to understand, map, and synthesise intervention activities guided by ACE and implemented by countries worldwide for the prevention, control and elimination of malaria. METHODS Three databases (Web of Science, Proquest, and Medline) were searched for peer-reviewed, primary studies, published in English between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2022. Advanced Google was used to search for grey literature. The five levels of the International Association for Public Participation were used to categorise ACE - (1) Inform, (2) Consult, (3) involve, (4) Collaborate, and (5) Co-lead. Intervention activities were categorised as health education (HE), and/or health services (HS), and/or environmental management (EM). Outcomes were collected as knowledge, attitude, behaviour, help-seeking, health and HS and environment. Enablers and barriers were identified. Malaria intervention phases were categorised as (1) prevention (P), or (2) control (C), or (3) prevention and control (PC) or prevention, control and elimination (PCE). RESULTS Seventy-five studies were included in the review. Based on ACE levels, most studies were at the inform (n=37) and involve (n=26) level. HE (n=66) and HS (n=43) were the common intervention activities. HE informed communities about malaria, its prevention and vector control. EM activities were effective when complemented by HE. Community-based HS using locally recruited health workers was well-accepted by the community. Involvement of local leaders and collaboration with local stakeholders can be enablers for malaria intervention activities. CONCLUSION Involving local leaders and community groups in all stages of malaria prevention programmes is vital for successful interventions. Key elements of successful ACE, that is, consult, collaborate, and co-lead were under-represented in the literature and require attention. National programes must consult and collaborate with community stakeholders to develop ownership of the interventions and eventually co-lead them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Raj Awasthi
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Jonine Jancey
- Western Australian Centre for Health Promotion Research, School of Public Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | | | - Rajni Rai
- School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Yedinak J, Krieger MS, Joseph R, Levin S, Edwards S, Bailer DA, Goyer J, Daley Ndoye C, Schultz C, Koziol J, Elmaleh R, Hallowell BD, Hampson T, Duong E, Shihipar A, Goedel WC, Marshall BD. Public Health Dashboards in Overdose Prevention: The Rhode Island Approach to Public Health Data Literacy, Partnerships, and Action. J Med Internet Res 2024; 26:e51671. [PMID: 38345849 PMCID: PMC10897802 DOI: 10.2196/51671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
As the field of public health rises to the demands of real-time surveillance and rapid data-sharing needs in a postpandemic world, it is time to examine our approaches to the dissemination and accessibility of such data. Distinct challenges exist when working to develop a shared public health language and narratives based on data. It requires that we assess our understanding of public health data literacy, revisit our approach to communication and engagement, and continuously evaluate our impact and relevance. Key stakeholders and cocreators are critical to this process and include people with lived experience, community organizations, governmental partners, and research institutions. In this viewpoint paper, we offer an instructive approach to the tools we used, assessed, and adapted across 3 unique overdose data dashboard projects in Rhode Island, United States. We are calling this model the "Rhode Island Approach to Public Health Data Literacy, Partnerships, and Action." This approach reflects the iterative lessons learned about the improvement of data dashboards through collaboration and strong partnerships across community members, state agencies, and an academic research team. We will highlight key tools and approaches that are accessible and engaging and allow developers and stakeholders to self-assess their goals for their data dashboards and evaluate engagement with these tools by their desired audiences and users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesse Yedinak
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Maxwell S Krieger
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | - Stacey Levin
- Parent Support Network, Warwick, RI, United States
| | - Sarah Edwards
- Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | | | | | - Cathy Schultz
- State of Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Cranston, RI, United States
| | - Jennifer Koziol
- Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Rachael Elmaleh
- Rhode Island Department of Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | | | - Todd Hampson
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Ellen Duong
- Center for Computation and Visualization, Brown University, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Abdullah Shihipar
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - William C Goedel
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
| | - Brandon Dl Marshall
- Department of Epidemiology, Brown University School of Public Health, Providence, RI, United States
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Noorman MAJ, de Wit JBF, Marcos TA, Stutterheim SE, Jonas KJ, den Daas C. Engagement of HIV-negative MSM and partners of people with HIV in HIV cure (research): exploring the influence of perceived severity, susceptibility, benefits, and concerns. AIDS Care 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38319908 DOI: 10.1080/09540121.2024.2307381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACTAs the prospect of an HIV cure is gaining prominence, engaging key populations affected by an HIV cure becomes essential. This study examined the engagement of HIV-negative men who have sex with men (MSM) and/or partners of people with HIV (PHIV) in the Netherlands. Interviews were conducted with 19 MSM not in relationships with a partner with HIV and 16 partners of PHIV and were thematically analyzed. Perspectives on the importance of an HIV cure were shaped by the perceived severity of HIV and the level of susceptibility to the virus. Despite concerns about potential new HIV infections and treatment intensity, most participants believed that an HIV cure could reduce HIV burden. Both HIV eradication and HIV suppression were regarded as acceptable outcomes. Engagement was demonstrated through actions like accessing information, participating in research, and showing support for partners or community members involved in HIV cure research. In conclusion, we found that most participants were engaged due to their heightened perception of HIV's severity. However, this engagement tended to remain passive due to their perceived low susceptibility to HIV, resulting in a scenario where the perceived importance of an HIV cure is high, while personal relevance remains low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaike A J Noorman
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - John B F de Wit
- Department of Interdisciplinary Social Science, Utrecht University, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - Tamika A Marcos
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Sarah E Stutterheim
- Department of Health Promotion and Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Kai J Jonas
- Department of Work and Social Psychology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Chantal den Daas
- Department of Health Promotion and Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
- Health Psychology Group, Institute of Applied Health Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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25
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Ramírez Riveros D, González-Lagos C. Community Engagement and the Effectiveness of Free-Roaming Cat Control Techniques: A Systematic Review. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:492. [PMID: 38338135 PMCID: PMC10854515 DOI: 10.3390/ani14030492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Although free-roaming and feral cat control techniques are often applied in human communities, community engagement is not always considered. A systematic literature review following an update of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA 2020) methodology was conducted to evaluate whether community engagement influences the effectiveness of control techniques, excluding culling, in managing cat populations. The degree of community engagement was estimated based on the number of roles reported during the application of the control technique, which included adoption, trapping, care, and/or education. Education followed by adoption was the determining factor in the decreasing cat populations over time. The limited evaluations of control technique effectiveness, narrow geographical scope, and our simple measure of engagement emphasize the need for more detailed studies. These studies should evaluate the effectiveness of control techniques, while considering community engagement more comprehensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Ramírez Riveros
- Centro de Investigación en Recursos Naturales y Sustentabilidad (CIRENYS), Universidad Bernardo O’Higgins, Santiago 8370993, Chile
- Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago 8331150, Chile;
| | - César González-Lagos
- Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago 8331150, Chile;
- Departamento de Ciencias, Facultad de Artes Liberales, Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez, Santiago 8320000, Chile
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26
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Thompson HM, Wang TM, Talan AJ, Baker KE, Restar AJ. First They Came for Us All: Responding to Anti-Transgender Structural Violence With Collective, Community-Engaged, and Intersectional Health Equity Research and Advocacy. Health Educ Behav 2024; 51:5-9. [PMID: 37746726 DOI: 10.1177/10901981231201146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
This article is a call for collective action across health equity researchers and advocates to build a more just world. We attempt to make sense of senseless structural and interpersonal brutality in the context of the current political climate across the United States, whereby the spectrum of gender nonconformity has been and continues to be stigmatized. From drag performance to transgender identities to gender-affirming health care, extremists have instrumentalized primary levers of democracy-the courts, legislatures, and social media-to attempt to outlaw and eradicate gender expansiveness and those who provide forms of support and care, including gender-affirming medical care, to transgender, nonbinary, and gender-expansive (TNBGE) individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ali J Talan
- Whitman-Walker Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Arjee J Restar
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
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27
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Zaidi M, Fantasia HC, Penders R, Koren A, Enah C. Increasing U.S. Maternal Health Equity Among Immigrant Populations Through Community Engagement. Nurs Womens Health 2024; 28:11-22. [PMID: 38072010 DOI: 10.1016/j.nwh.2023.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Immigrant women in the United States are at an elevated risk of poor maternal health outcomes due to cultural, linguistic, or socioeconomic barriers that may lead to critical delays in obtaining adequate health care. Ensuring access to high-quality, culturally appropriate perinatal health care is crucial to improve the health and well-being of immigrant mothers and their children. Various aspects of perinatal health care for immigrant women can be improved through community engagement strategies. Barriers can be addressed by involving community members in designing and delivering culturally appropriate maternal health services. Some strategies discussed in this commentary include working with community health workers, encouraging telehealth through community health workers, providing breastfeeding and mental health support within cultural norms, and involving community-based doulas and midwives.
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28
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Palu E, McBride KA, Simmons D, Thompson R, Cavallaro C, Cooper E, Felila M, MacMillan F. Adequacy of health message tailoring for ethnic minorities: Pasifika communities in Sydney, Australia, during COVID-19. Health Promot Int 2024; 39:daad197. [PMID: 38365189 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daad197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Ethnic minorities, such as Pasifika, residing in high-income countries were at higher risk of COVID-19 infection during the pandemic. To understand the experiences of Pasifika, including message dissemination and barriers to tailored public health messaging during the pandemic, a qualitative study was undertaken, underpinned by Laswell's Model of Communication and Bandura's social cognitive theory with data collected using Pasifika methods. Pasifika adults (n = 65) were recruited across Sydney from July 2020 to March 2022. Health care professionals (HCP) (n = 17) employed by four local health districts (LHDs) and Pasifika community-based organizations delivering multicultural COVID-19-related work within the study catchment, were also recruited. Five themes were constructed from the data of: (i) prevailing fear and uncertainty over COVID-19 infection and losing employment; (ii) limited knowledge of government perpetuating distrust in Government as a benevolent source of information; (iii) faith and trust as priorities for health decision-making; (iv) 'Coconut wireless'-the role of family, friends and community in disseminating public health messages through word of mouth; and (v) limited health literacy affecting compliance with public health orders. Community members identified important messages and resources had not been sufficiently distributed. Most HCPs understood the necessity of grassroots-level engagement but reported existing approaches were inadequate to navigate challenges. These findings highlight the need for public health promotion and communication strategies that consider both the social and cultural determinants of health. We propose a 7-point checklist as a cultural appropriateness lens to assist the development and rating of existing or new health promotion messaging and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Palu
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate A McBride
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Diabetes Obesity Metabolism Translational Research Unit, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - David Simmons
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Diabetes Obesity Metabolism Translational Research Unit, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Macarthur Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Ronda Thompson
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Ellen Cooper
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | - Makeleta Felila
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Western Sydney Local Health District, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Freya MacMillan
- Diabetes Obesity Metabolism Translational Research Unit, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- Macarthur Clinical School, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
- School of Health Sciences, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
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29
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Furini M. X as a Passive Sensor to Identify Opinion Leaders: A Novel Method for Balancing Visibility and Community Engagement. Sensors (Basel) 2024; 24:610. [PMID: 38257702 PMCID: PMC10820459 DOI: 10.3390/s24020610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/12/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
The identification of opinion leaders is a matter of great significance for companies and authorities, as these individuals are able to shape the opinions and attitudes of entire societies. In this paper, we consider X (formerly Twitter) as a passive sensor to identify opinion leaders. Given the unreliability of the traditional follower count metric due to the presence of fake accounts and farm bots, our approach combines the measures of visibility and community engagement to identify these influential individuals. Through an experimental evaluation involving approximately 4 million tweets, we showed two important findings: (i) relying solely on follower count or post frequency is inadequate for accurately identifying opinion leaders, (ii) opinion leaders are able to build community and gain visibility around specific themes. The results showed the benefits of using X as a passive sensor to identify opinion leaders, as the proposed method offers substantial advantages for those who are involved in social media communication strategies, including political campaigns, brand monitoring, and policymaking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Furini
- Department of Communication and Economics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 42121 Reggio Emilia, Italy
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30
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Aberese-Ako M, Doegah PT, Kpodo L, Ebelin W, Kuatewo M, Baba AA, Kpordorlor AG, Lissah SY, Kuug AK, Ansah E. The role of community engagement toward ensuring healthy lives: a case study of COVID-19 management in two Ghanaian municipalities. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1213121. [PMID: 38303963 PMCID: PMC10832024 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1213121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Community engagement is one of the important requirements for strengthening health delivery in communities in a bid to achieve sustainable development goal 3, target 3.3 (SDG 3.3). The World Health Organization has strongly encouraged the use the five levels of community engagement, which are informing, consulting, planning, collaborating, and empowering communities in order to build resilience and to enable them contribute to the fight against diseases and for the uptake of health interventions. This study sought to explore and describe from the view of government institutions in Ghana how they engaged communities in COVID- 19 management and vaccine acceptance and how the communities within two municipalities also perceived the engagement process as well as the lessons that can be learned in engaging communities to deal with other health challenges and interventions toward the attainment of SDG 3 target 3.3. Materials and methods This case study qualitative research project employed in-depth interviews among 36 respondents composed of government officials (the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the Information Services Department (ISD), the National Commission on Civic Education (NCCE) and two Municipal Assemblies), and community leaders and 10 focus group discussions among 87 men and women most of whom were natives and some migrants in two administrative municipalities in Ghana. Data were collected from June to September 2021. Audio interviews were transcribed and uploaded to Nvivo 12 to support triangulation, coding, and thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Health and Allied Sciences' Research Ethics Committee and all COVID-19 restrictions were observed. Results The findings revealed that all the four government institutions educated and informed the communities within their municipalities on COVID-19 management and vaccine acceptance. However, the Ghana Health Service was the most effective in the engagement spectrum of the other four; consulting, involving, collaborating, and empowering communities in the process of COVID-19 management and vaccine acceptance. The GHS achieved that through its CHPS program, which ensured a decentralized health service provision system with multiple programs and leveraging on its multiple programs to reach out to the communities. Government institutions such as the NCCE and the ISD faced challenges such as limited funding and support from the government to be able to carry out their tasks. Additionally, they were not involved with the communities prior to the pandemic and for that matter, they did not have access to community systems such as committees, and existing groups to facilitate the engagement process. Discussion Using communities to support Ghana's attainment of the SDG 3 target 3.3 is possible; however, the government needs to provide funds and resources to the institutions responsible to enable them to carry out community engagement effectively. Also, promoting decentralization among institutions can strengthen community engagement processes. It is important that state institutions continue to strategize to empower communities in order to promote their participation in healthcare interventions and in the fight against infectious diseases in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matilda Aberese-Ako
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
| | | | | | - Wisdom Ebelin
- Evangelical Presbyterian Health Services, Evangelical Presbyterian Headquarters, Ho, Ghana
| | - Mawulom Kuatewo
- Hohoe Municipal Health Directorate, Ghana Health Service, Hohoe, Ghana
| | - Atubiga Alobit Baba
- School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
- Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Tamale Technical University, Tamale, Ghana
| | | | - Samuel Yaw Lissah
- Department of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, Ho Technical University, Volta Region, Ghana
| | | | - Evelyn Ansah
- Institute of Health Research, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho, Ghana
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Potter MB, Mansur S, Rutman SP, Brindis CD. Is team science valued in the academic promotions process? A mixed-methods case study. J Clin Transl Sci 2024; 8:e28. [PMID: 38384922 PMCID: PMC10880000 DOI: 10.1017/cts.2024.7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Traditionally, research institutions have valued individual achievements such as principal investigator and lead authorship status as primary indicators in the academic promotions process. However, the scientific process increasingly requires collaboration by teams of researchers across multiple disciplines, sometimes including experts outside academia, often referred to as "team science." We sought to determine whether there is agreement about what constitutes team science at our academic institution and whether current promotion processes sufficiently incentivize faculty participation in team science. Methods We conducted 20 qualitative interviews with academic leaders (N = 24) at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) who supervise faculty promotions processes. Participants were asked to share their definitions of team science and the extent to which faculty receive credit for engaging in these activities during the promotions process. A subset of participants also completed a brief survey in which they ranked the importance of participation in team science relative to other factors that are traditionally valued in the promotions process. Interview data were examined by two analysts using structural coding. Descriptive analyses were conducted of survey responses. Results Though team science is valued at UCSF, definitions of team science and the approach to assigning credit for team science in academic promotions processes varied widely. Participants suggested opportunities to bolster support for team science. Conclusions Efforts to define and provide transparent faculty incentives for team science should be prioritized at institutions, like UCSF, seeking to advance faculty engagement in collaborative research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael B. Potter
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Saji Mansur
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Shira P. Rutman
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Claire D. Brindis
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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32
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Chau D, Parra J, Santos MG, Bastías MJ, Kim R, Handley MA. Community engagement in the development of health-related data visualizations: a scoping review. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2024; 31:479-487. [PMID: 37279890 PMCID: PMC10797278 DOI: 10.1093/jamia/ocad090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This scoping review aims to address a gap in the literature on community engagement in developing data visualizations intended to improve population health. The review objectives are to: (1) synthesize literature on the types of community engagement activities conducted by researchers working with community partners and (2) characterize instances of "creative data literacy" within data visualizations developed in community-researcher partnerships. METHODS Using the 2018 PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines, the review focuses on peer-reviewed journal articles from 2010 to 2022 in PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A community engagement tool was applied to the studies by independent reviewers to classify levels of community engagement, social determinants, and vulnerable populations. RESULTS Twenty-seven articles were included in the scoping review. Twelve articles worked with vulnerable populations. Four articles attempted to alleviate barriers to representation in their respective studies, with addressing language barriers being the most prevalent approach. Thirteen articles considered social determinants of health. Sixteen studies engaged in iterative approaches with intended users when developing the visualization or tool. DISCUSSION Only a few significant examples of creative data literacy are incorporated in the studies. We recommend a specific focus on engaging intended users at every step of the development process, addressing language and cultural differences, and empowering intended users as data storytellers. CONCLUSIONS There is room for deeper and more meaningful community involvement in the development of health-related data visualizations geared towards them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren Chau
- University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - José Parra
- Partnerships for Research in Implementation Science for Equity (PRISE) Center at University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Maricel G Santos
- Department of English Language & Literature, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - María José Bastías
- Graduate College of Education, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rebecca Kim
- Department of English Language & Literature, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Margaret A Handley
- Partnerships for Research in Implementation Science for Equity (PRISE) Center at University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Habib MA, Soofi SB, Hussain Z, Ahmed I, Tahir R, Anwar S, Nauman AA, Sharif M, Islam M, Cousens S, Bhutta ZA. A Holistic Strategy of Mother and Child Health Care to Improve the Coverage of Routine and Polio Immunization in Pakistan: Results from a Demonstration Project. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:89. [PMID: 38250902 PMCID: PMC10819799 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The eradication of poliovirus and improving routine immunization (RI) coverage rates present significant challenges in Pakistan. There is a need for interventions that focus on strengthening community engagement to improve routine immunization coverage. Our primary objective is to assess the impact of an integrated strategy designed to enhance community engagement and maternal and child health immunization campaigns on immunization coverage in Pakistan's high-risk union councils of polio-endemic districts. METHOD We implemented an integrated approach for routine immunization and maternal and child health in the polio-endemic district of Pakistan. This approach involved setting up health camps and actively engaging and mobilizing the local community. An independent team conducted surveys at three key points: baseline, midline, and endline, to evaluate immunization coverage among children under the age of five. The primary outcome measures for the study were coverage of OPV, IPV, and changes in the proportion of unvaccinated and fully vaccinated children. To select clusters and eligible households in each cluster, we utilized a 30 × 15 cluster sampling technique. Multivariable associations between socio-demographic factors and changes in the proportion of fully vaccinated children at the UC level were assessed using hierarchical linear regression models. RESULTS A total of 256,946 children under the age of five (122,950 at baseline and 133,996 at endline) were enrolled in the study. By the endline, full immunization coverage had increased to 60% or more in all three study areas compared to the baseline. Additionally, there was a significant increase in the coverage of both OPV and IPV across all three provinces at the endline. The full immunization rates were assessed on three levels of the framework: the distal, intermediate (access and environment), and proximal level (camp attendance and effectiveness). At the distal level, on multivariate analysis, family size was found to be a significant predictor of change in immunity within the families (β = 0.68; p ≤ 0.0001). At the intermediate level, the likelihood of full immunization decreased with the decrease in knowledge about vaccination (β = -0.38; p = 0.002), knowledge about polio vaccine (β = -0.25; p = 0.011), and knowledge about IPV (β = -0.06; p = 0.546). Perceived obstacles to vaccination were fear of adverse events (β = -0.4; p ≤ 0.0001) and lack of education (β = 0.23; p = 0.031), which were found to be significant in bivariate and multivariate analyses. At the proximal level, community mobilization (β = 0.26; p = 0.008) and attendance at health camp (β = 0.21; p ≤ 0.0001) were found to enhance full immunization coverage. On the other hand, the most prominent reason for not attending health camp included no need to attend the health camp as the child was not ill (β = -0.13; p = 0.008). CONCLUSIONS This study found that community mobilization and attendance at health camps significantly enhanced full immunization coverage. The findings highlight the importance of community engagement and targeted interventions in improving immunization coverage and addressing barriers to healthcare seeking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Atif Habib
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan; (M.A.H.); (S.B.S.); (I.A.)
| | - Sajid Bashir Soofi
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan; (M.A.H.); (S.B.S.); (I.A.)
- Department of Pediatrics & Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan
| | - Zamir Hussain
- Trust for Vaccines and Immunization, Karachi 74400, Pakistan; (Z.H.); (R.T.)
| | - Imran Ahmed
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan; (M.A.H.); (S.B.S.); (I.A.)
| | - Rehman Tahir
- Trust for Vaccines and Immunization, Karachi 74400, Pakistan; (Z.H.); (R.T.)
| | - Saeed Anwar
- Prime Institute of Public Health, Peshawar 25160, Pakistan; (S.A.); (A.A.N.); (M.S.)
| | - Ahmed Ali Nauman
- Prime Institute of Public Health, Peshawar 25160, Pakistan; (S.A.); (A.A.N.); (M.S.)
| | - Muhammad Sharif
- Prime Institute of Public Health, Peshawar 25160, Pakistan; (S.A.); (A.A.N.); (M.S.)
| | - Muhammad Islam
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada;
| | - Simon Cousens
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London WC1E 7HT, UK;
| | - Zulfiqar A. Bhutta
- Centre of Excellence in Women and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi 74800, Pakistan; (M.A.H.); (S.B.S.); (I.A.)
- Centre for Global Child Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 1X8, Canada;
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Koloi-Keaikitse S, Kasule M, Kwape I, Jankie D, Ralefala D, Ntseane DM, Mokone GG. Understanding cultural values, norms and beliefs that may impact participation in genome-editing related research: Perspectives of local communities in Botswana. Dev World Bioeth 2024. [PMID: 38205946 DOI: 10.1111/dewb.12440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Gene-editing research is a complex science and foreign in most communities including Botswana. Adopting a qualitative deliberative framework with 109 participants from 7 selected ethnic communities in Botswana, we explored the perceptions of local communities on cultural values, norms, and beliefs that may motivate or deter likely participation in the use of gene-editing related research. What emerged as the ethnic community's motivators for research participation include the potential for gene-editing technologies to promote access to individualized medications, and the possibility of protecting family members from genetic related diseases. Deterrents for research participation include cultural values such as implications of lineage for chieftainship, trust, fear or anxiety, uncertainty, and sensitivity on the use of gene-editing. Findings of our study have implications for continuous engagement with local communities to explore potential ways of addressing cultural sensitivities that can further deter their participation in future gene-editing related research.
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Sotto-Santiago S, Wiehe S, Claxton G, Stamper G, Delp L, Hudson B, Lynch D, Moe S. "I Am Interested!": The Voices of the Community and Their Participation in Health Advisory Boards. Health Equity 2024; 8:8-13. [PMID: 38250302 PMCID: PMC10797172 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2022.0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Researchers can often be challenged by meaningful efforts to involve the public and communities in research. Community and health advisory boards (HABs) offer an opportunity to create a fully intentional and honest relationship between researchers and the community. Objective Most recently, the All Indiana (IN) for Health HAB had four openings and a call was published to our community of over 13,800 individuals in the All IN for Health newsletter. Four hundred eighty-eight individuals submitted applications to become part of the board. In what follows, we share the lessons in motivations and interests of individuals who responded. Methods The application process included the following questions: What lived experiences and/or personal interests have motivated you to be involved in All IN for Health? Please explain why you are interested in being an All IN for HAB member. Our analysis approach was qualitative and centered on narrative research. Results We organize the findings in two categories: Motivation and Interests. Individuals were motivated to participate based on family or friend diagnosis, personal diagnosis, roles as caregivers, desire to impact change and advocacy, role as health professional, and previous participation in research. Interests followed similar themes beginning with crediting their interest to a diagnosis. In addition, we categorized desire to share their experience, personal positionality, and previous research experience, and contributing to the education of student/trainee. Conclusion By understanding motivations, we understand needs. This information can be used for other advisory boards, as well as recruitment into research participation and health care advocacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylk Sotto-Santiago
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sarah Wiehe
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Gina Claxton
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Gavin Stamper
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Lindsey Delp
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Brenda Hudson
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Dustin Lynch
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
| | - Sharon Moe
- Indiana Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
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Kamruzzaman M, Rahman A, Reidpath DD, Akhter S. Risk communication and community engagement in the context of COVID-19 response in Bangladesh: a qualitative study. Front Public Health 2024; 11:1267446. [PMID: 38249367 PMCID: PMC10799557 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1267446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The global COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted nations worldwide, and Bangladesh was no exception. In response, the government of Bangladesh implemented community awareness initiatives aimed at containing the spread of the virus, aligned with international guidelines and recommendations. Despite these efforts, a lack of comprehensive community awareness programs played an essential role during the pandemic, not the preventive measures. A qualitative study employing framing theory was conducted to gain a deeper insight into how the social context influenced risk communication and community response throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. Methods The study was conducted in four selected districts of Bangladesh from February to May 2022 using complementary data collection methods, including key informant interviews, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with purposely selected participants. Data were analyzed thematically by following six steps of the thematic analysis process. Codes were developed based on the data and summarized into themes and sub-themes grounded on the codes. Results The findings indicate that the government of Bangladesh, along with development partners and non-government organizations, made a significant effort to raise awareness about COVID-19 in the community. However, there were certain limitations to this effort. These include a lack of social science and public health approaches to understanding the pandemic; inadequate coordination among the authorities for COVID-19 prevention and control; technological and geographical barriers for disseminating messages; the living conditions and lack of facilities; socio-cultural norms in understanding the COVID-19 health messages, and the gendered understanding of the messages. The findings also revealed that the awareness activities remained a one-way approach to inform the people and faced challenges to actively engage and create ownership of the community in the pandemic response. Conclusion The study identified gaps in implementing risk communication and community engagement strategies in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increasing focus on public health and prioritizing community ownership is essential to designing a more effective community awareness campaign. This approach will help ensure that health messages are communicated effectively and tailored to different communities' needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aminur Rahman
- Health Systems and Population Studies Division, ICDDR,B, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Daniel D. Reidpath
- Institute for Global Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, Scotland
| | - Sadika Akhter
- Health Systems and Population Studies Division, ICDDR,B, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- School of Health and Social Development, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Dicko B, Kodio S, Samoura H, Traoré F, Sykes N, Drabo M, Thizy D, Coche I, Robinson B, Sanogo K, Yagouré B, Diop S, Coulibaly MB. Stakeholder engagement in the development of genetically modified mosquitoes for malaria control in West Africa: lessons learned from 10 years of Target Malaria's work in Mali. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 11:1286694. [PMID: 38249804 PMCID: PMC10797414 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1286694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
From 2012 to 2023, the Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC), based out of the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako (USTTB), was part of the Target Malaria research consortium working towards developing novel gene drive-based tools for controlling populations of malaria vector mosquitoes. As part of this work, Target Malaria Mali has undertaken a range of in-depth engagement activities with the communities where their research is conducted and with other stakeholders nationally. These activities were meant to ensure that the project's activities took place with the agreement of those communities, and that those communities were able to play a role in shaping the project's approach to ensure that its eventual outcomes were in line with their needs and concerns. This paper aims to conduct a critical assessment of those 10 years of stakeholder engagement in order to identify good practices which can inform future engagement work on gene drive research in West Africa. It sets out a range of approaches and practices that enabled the Target Malaria Mali team to engage a variety of stakeholders, to share information, collect feedback, and determine community agreement, in a manner that was inclusive, effective, and culturally appropriate. These can be useful tools for those working on gene drive research and other area-wide vector control methods in West African contexts to ensure that their research is aligned with the interests of the communities who are intended to be its ultimate beneficiaries, and to allow those communities to play a meaningful role in the research process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bakara Dicko
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Souleymane Kodio
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Hatouma Samoura
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Fatoumata Traoré
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Naima Sykes
- Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | - Kadiatou Sanogo
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Bilkissou Yagouré
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Samba Diop
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Mamadou B. Coulibaly
- Malaria Research and Training Center at the University of Sciences, Techniques and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
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Tilahun M, Gebresilase TT, Aseffa A, Haile K, Wogayehu T, Murale MT, Yntiso H, Munung NS, Bobosha K, Kaba M. Public perceptions of genomic studies and hereditary diseases in Aari community, South Omo Zone, Ethiopia. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg 2024; 118:51-60. [PMID: 38165197 DOI: 10.1093/trstmh/trad051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 07/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Genetic and genomic research is revolutionizing precision medicine; however, addressing ethical and cultural aspects is crucial to ensure ethical conduct and respect for community values and beliefs. This study explored the beliefs, perceptions and concerns of the Aari community in South Ethiopia regarding genetic concepts, hereditary diseases and ethical research practices related to sample collection, storage and sharing. METHODS In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with community elders, health officials, tuberculosis patients and apparently healthy individuals. Data were thematically analysed using MAXQDA software. RESULTS Participants identified diseases such as podoconiosis, leprosy, goitre and epilepsy as hereditary and perceived some as 'curses' due to generational impact and social stigma. Disease susceptibility was attributed to divine intervention or factors such as malnutrition and sanitation. Although hereditary diseases were considered unavoidable, in some cases environmental factors were acknowledged. Participants shared personal examples to demonstrate inheritance concepts. Blood held cultural significance, and concerns about its potential misuse resulted in scepticism towards giving samples. CONCLUSIONS This study emphasizes the significance of comprehending local beliefs and perceptions and stresses the need to establish effective communication, build trust and address underlying causes of hesitancy to improve recruitment and ensure ethical conduct.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melaku Tilahun
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Tewodros Tariku Gebresilase
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
- Institute of Biotechnology, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Abraham Aseffa
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Kassa Haile
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Teklu Wogayehu
- Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, Arba Minch University, Arba Minch, Ethiopia
| | - Moi Top Murale
- Department of Psychology, Jinka University, Jinka, Ethiopia
| | - Hailu Yntiso
- South Aari Woreda Administration, Gazer, South Omo, Ethiopia
| | - Nchangwi Syntia Munung
- Division of Human Genetics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kidist Bobosha
- Armauer Hansen Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Mirgissa Kaba
- School of Public Health, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Stone-Heaberlin M, Blackburn A, Qian C. Caregiver education programme on intellectual and developmental disabilities: An acceptability and feasibility study in an academic medical setting. Child Care Health Dev 2024; 50:e13178. [PMID: 37752721 DOI: 10.1111/cch.13178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), including autism spectrum disorder, benefit from a variety of specialized interventions. However, there are barriers that impact families' ability to access such services for their children. While not intended as a replacement for individualized or group-based interventions, educational classes may be an option in providing supplemental resources and support to families of individuals with I/DD. This study was a programme evaluation that examined the feasibility and acceptability of a Caregiver Education Program that was created in an outpatient specialty clinic of an academic medical centre, designed to provide educational information on a variety of topics relevant to children and adolescents with I/DD (e.g., toilet training, understanding behaviour and managing anxiety). METHOD The review included 1027 participants from 40 classes led by licensed clinicians, trainees, and/or experienced caregivers. Classes occurred approximately one time per month over the course of three-and-a-half years and targeted caregivers of children and adolescents with I/DD and community-based professionals in the field of I/DD. Participants were able to attend one or multiple classes, based on their interest in the given topic. Participants were asked to complete post-training surveys at the end of each session as part of ongoing programme evaluation. RESULTS Participants reported a high level of satisfaction and increased knowledge as a result of participating in classes, and higher knowledge gained and higher satisfaction for in-person classes compared to virtual classes. CONCLUSIONS This programme is one model of education delivery with high acceptability and feasibility, designed to support families and increase access to information beyond specialized interventions. Future directions include improving the model of programme data collection, examination of the programme's generalization to practice and to other communities, and an emphasis on culturally responsive curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg Stone-Heaberlin
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology l Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Allison Blackburn
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology l Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Cheng Qian
- Division of Behavioral Medicine and Clinical Psychology l Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Coury J, Coronado GD, Myers E, Patzel M, Thompson J, Whidden-Rivera C, Davis MM. Engaging with Rural Communities for Colorectal Cancer Screening Outreach Using Modified Boot Camp Translation. Prog Community Health Partnersh 2024; 18:47-59. [PMID: 38661826 PMCID: PMC11047025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are disproportionately high among rural residents and Medicaid enrollees. OBJECTIVES To address disparities, we used a modified community engagement approach, Boot Camp Translation (BCT). Research partners, an advisory board, and the rural community informed messaging about CRC outreach and a mailed fecal immunochemical test program. METHODS Eligible rural patients (English-speaking and ages 50-74) and clinic staff involved in patient outreach participated in a BCT conducted virtually over two months. We applied qualitative analysis to BCT transcripts and field notes. RESULTS Key themes included: the importance of directly communicating about the seriousness of cancer, leveraging close clinic-patient relationships, and communicating the test safety, ease, and low cost. CONCLUSIONS Using a modified version of BCT delivered in a virtual format, we were able to successfully capture community input to adapt a CRC outreach program for use in rural settings. Program materials will be tested during a pragmatic trial to address rural CRC screening disparities.
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Weingartner LA, Combs RM, Bohnert CA, Decker HR, Noonan EJ. Epistemic Peerhood as a Model To Improve Gender-Affirming Care in Medical Education. Teach Learn Med 2024; 36:89-98. [PMID: 36314249 DOI: 10.1080/10401334.2022.2137169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Issue: Inadequate training around gender-affirming care is a critical gap in health care and medical education that causes disparities and leads to injury for transgender, nonbinary, and other gender-diverse patients. In contrast to this widespread provider knowledge gap, gender-diverse patients bring critical knowledge from their own experiences to health care. Embracing varied epistemologies, or sources of knowledge, within medical education has the potential to enhance gender-affirming care by intentionally placing value on the lived experiences and emphasizing the credibility of gender-diverse patients. Evidence: In this article, the authors endorse a model of epistemic peerhood in which the embodied knowledge of gender-diverse patients and the authoritative knowledge of providers are each valued for their contribution to care. The authors reflect on experiences developing gender-affirming healthcare curricula and how medical education has not yet adequately addressed gender-diverse care without embracing community knowledge. Implications: The authors identify three vital areas to integrate epistemic peerhood in medical training to address gaps in gender-affirming care: (1) collaborative student training methods that reflect embodied knowledge in the absence of, or in addition to, clinical expertise on gender-affirming care; (2) sustainable partnerships between academic programs and gender-diverse communities that foster continuous engagement from collaborators with lived experience; and (3) broad community input about best practices for representing gender diversity in patient simulation. Embracing epistemic peerhood in each of these areas would result in broader gender-diverse community representation and leadership in medical education, which would ultimately strengthen gender-affirming healthcare training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Weingartner
- Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Ryan M Combs
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Carrie A Bohnert
- Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Hallie R Decker
- Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville School of Public Health and Information Sciences, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
| | - Emily J Noonan
- Undergraduate Medical Education, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, Kentucky, USA
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Overgaard HJ, Linn NYY, Kyaw AMM, Braack L, Win Tin M, Bastien S, Vande Velde F, Echaubard P, Zaw W, Mukaka M, Maude R. School and community driven dengue vector control and monitoring in Myanmar: Study protocol for a cluster randomized controlled trial. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 7:206. [PMID: 38313099 PMCID: PMC10837613 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.18027.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Dengue is the most common and widespread mosquito-borne arboviral disease globally estimated to cause >390 million infections and >20,000 deaths annually. There are no effective preventive drugs and the newly introduced vaccines are not yet available. Control of dengue transmission still relies primarily on mosquito vector control. Although most vector control methods currently used by national dengue control programs may temporarily reduce mosquito populations, there is little evidence that they affect transmission. There is an urgent need for innovative, participatory, effective, and locally adapted approaches for sustainable vector control and monitoring in which students can be particularly relevant contributors and to demonstrate a clear link between vector reduction and dengue transmission reduction, using tools that are inexpensive and easy to use by local communities in a sustainable manner. Methods Here we describe a cluster randomized controlled trial to be conducted in 46 school catchment areas in two townships in Yangon, Myanmar. The outcome measures are dengue cases confirmed by rapid diagnostic test in the townships, dengue incidence in schools, entomological indices, knowledge, attitudes and practice, behavior, and engagement. Conclusions The trial involves middle school students that positions them to become actors in dengue knowledge transfer to their communities and take a leadership role in the delivery of vector control interventions and monitoring methods. Following this rationale, we believe that students can become change agents of decentralized vector surveillance and sustainable disease control in line with recent new paradigms in integrated and participatory vector surveillance and control. This provides an opportunity to operationalize transdisciplinary research towards sustainable health development. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and political instability in Myanmar the project has been terminated by the donor, but the protocol will be helpful for potential future implementation of the project in Myanmar and/or elsewhere.Registration: This trial was registered in the ISRCTN Registry on 31 May 2022 ( https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN78254298).
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans J. Overgaard
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, As, 1432, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, KHON KAEN, 40002, Thailand
| | - Nay Yi Yi Linn
- Central Vector Borne Disease Control Unit, Ministry of Health and Sports, Nay Pyi Taw, Myanmar
| | - Aye Mon Mon Kyaw
- Yangon Regional Health Department, Ministry of Health and Sports, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Leo Braack
- Malaria Consortium, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Institute for Sustainable Malaria Control, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0028, South Africa
| | | | - Sheri Bastien
- Faculty of Landscape and Society, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Fiona Vande Velde
- Faculty of Landscape and Society, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway
| | - Pierre Echaubard
- School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London, London, WC1H 0XG, UK
- Faculty of Environment and Resource Studies, Mahidol University, Salaya, 73170, Thailand
| | - Win Zaw
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Mavuto Mukaka
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
| | - Richard Maude
- Mahidol-Oxford Tropical Medicine Research Unit, Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX3 7LG, UK
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
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Maganga CF, Ngwira FF, Gondwe G, Nyang'wa B, Kunkumbira T. COVID-19 Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) in Malawi: Challenges and Response. Health Promot Pract 2023:15248399231216725. [PMID: 38153005 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231216725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of COVID-19 created a global health crisis that has impacted our everyday lives. Risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) is one of the strategic pillars the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends when dealing with public health emergencies like COVID-19. In Malawi, the COVID-19 RCCE response was coordinated by the country's Ministry of Health and involved various organizations that distributed COVID-19 risk communication materials and engaged communities on important infection preventive practices. Furthermore, the Ministry of Information was involved in ensuring the messages were put across at national and subnational levels. Despite the efforts, most Malawians were reluctant to embrace set public health measures for COVID-19. Guided by a phenomenological approach, we used in-depth interviews with senior officials from 10 organizations, including the Ministry of Health, who were involved in RCCE response in Malawi, to understand the challenges that were faced in the implementation of RCCE activities in Malawi. We also reviewed project reports from three organizations, taken from the same implementing local organizations, to understand the experiences of implementing RCCE strategies in Malawi. We established that misconceptions, poor coordination, lack of political will, low-risk perceptions, and social norms undermined the response in Malawi. The results underscore the need for the authorities in Malawi to invest more in RCCE and strengthen the capacity to handle future epidemics. There is also a need to develop a national RCCE strategy with guidelines and protocols on methods of coordination, flow of communication, responsible ministry, tools for handling dis/misinformation and myths, and community engagement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Bester Nyang'wa
- Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Blantyre, Malawi
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Munoz-Lavanderos C, Oluyomi A, Rosales O, Hernandez N, Mensah-Bonsu N, Badr H. Development, Implementation, and Evaluation of Three Outreach Events to Improve COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Communities in Houston, Texas, 2022. Public Health Rep 2023:333549231213848. [PMID: 38140821 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231213848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Lack of access to timely, accurate, and linguistically appropriate COVID-19 information has complicated the dissemination of evidence-based information and contributed to vaccine hesitancy among racial and ethnic minority groups in the United States. We developed community events that provided outreach, education, and access to COVID-19 vaccination to overcome vaccine hesitancy in these communities. METHODS Using spatial analysis techniques, we identified 3 communities with low vaccine uptake in Houston, Texas, in fall 2021; engaged 20 stakeholders from these communities via 4 focus groups to understand barriers to vaccination; and developed and implemented 3 COVID-19 vaccine education and outreach events tailored to the needs of these communities in January-March 2022. We used program evaluation surveys to assess attendee characteristics and satisfaction with the events. Vaccinated attendees also completed surveys on what motivated them to get vaccinated. RESULTS Two communities were predominantly Hispanic, and the third had an equal number of Black and Hispanic residents. Based on community stakeholder input, the study team organized 2 health fairs and 1 community festival featuring dialogue-based COVID-19 vaccine engagement in January and March 2022. Across the 3 events, a total of 865 attendees received COVID-19 education and 205 (24.0%) attendees received a COVID-19 vaccine or booster. Of 90 attendees who completed program evaluation surveys, 81 (90%) rated the outreach event as good or excellent. Of 145 attendees who completed postvaccination surveys, 132 (91%) endorsed ≥1 key program feature as motivating them to either get vaccinated or vaccinate their child that day. CONCLUSION Community outreach events are important strategies for disseminating information, building trust, and facilitating COVID-19 vaccine uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abiodun Oluyomi
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Omar Rosales
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Norvin Hernandez
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nana Mensah-Bonsu
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Hoda Badr
- Department of Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Woodward EN, Lunsford A, Brown R, Downing D, Ball I, Gan-Kemp JM, Smith A, Atkinson O, Graham T. Pre-implementation adaptation of suicide safety planning intervention using peer support in rural areas. Front Health Serv 2023; 3:1225171. [PMID: 38188615 PMCID: PMC10766826 DOI: 10.3389/frhs.2023.1225171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Currently, seventeen veterans die by suicide daily in the United States (U.S.). There are disparities in suicide behavior and access to preventative treatment. One disparity is the suicide rate in rural areas, including the state of Arkansas-suicide deaths among rural veterans increased 48% in the last 2 decades, double that of urban veterans. One major challenge for veterans in rural areas is the lack of healthcare providers to provide Safety Planning Intervention, which is an effective intervention to reduce suicide attempts in the general adult population and among veterans. One solution is more broadly implementing Safety Planning Intervention, by using peers to deliver the intervention in rural communities. Before implementation, the intervention needs to be adapted for peer-to-peer delivery, and barriers and facilitators identified. Methods Since January 2021, using community-based participatory research, we collaboratively developed and executed a 1 year study to adapt Safety Planning Intervention for peer-to-peer delivery in rural communities and identified implementation barriers and facilitators prior to spread. From July 2022 to February 2023, we conducted group interviews with 12 participants: rural veterans with prior suicidal thoughts or attempts in one U.S. state, their support persons, and healthcare professionals with expertise in veteran suicide prevention, Safety Planning Intervention, and/or peer delivery. We collected qualitative data through interviews during nine, 2 h meetings, and quantitative data from one anonymous survey and real-time anonymous voting-all on the topic of core and adaptable components of Safety Planning Intervention and implementation barriers and facilitators for peer delivery in rural communities. Questions about adaptation were designed according to processes in the ENGAGED for CHANGE community-engaged intervention framework and questions about facilitators and barriers were designed according to the Health Equity Implementation Framework. Participants categorized which Safety Planning Intervention components were core or adaptable, and how freely they could be adapted, using the metaphor of a traffic light in red (do not change), yellow (change with caution), and green (change freely) categories. Results Participants made few actual adaptations (categorized according to the FRAME modification system), but strongly recommended robust training for peers. Participants identified 27 implementation facilitators and 47 barriers, organized using the Health Equity Implementation Framework. Two example facilitators were (1) peer-to-peer safety planning intervention was highly acceptable to rural veterans; and (2) some state counties already had veteran crisis programs that could embed this intervention for spread. Two example barriers were (1) some community organizations that might spread the intervention have been motivated initially, wanting to help right away, yet not able to sustain interventions; and (2) uncertainty about how to reach veterans at moderate suicide risk, as many crisis programs identified them when suicide risk was higher. Discussion Our results provide one of the more comprehensive pre-implementation assessments to date for Safety Planning Intervention in any setting, especially for peer delivery (also referred to as task shifting) outside healthcare or clinical settings. One important next step will be mapping these barriers and facilitators to implementation strategies for peer-to-peer delivery. One finding surprised our research team-despite worse societal context in rural communities leading to disproportionate suicide deaths-participants identified several positive facilitators specifically about rural communities that can be leveraged during implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva N. Woodward
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
- VA Center for Mental Healthcare & Outcomes Research, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Amanda Lunsford
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Rae Brown
- Arkansas Freedom Fund, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | | | - Irenia Ball
- VA Center for Mental Healthcare & Outcomes Research, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Jennifer M. Gan-Kemp
- Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, Center for Health Literacy, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | - Anthony Smith
- Arkansas Freedom Fund, Little Rock, AR, United States
| | | | - Thomas Graham
- College of Medicine, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, United States
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Williams G, Greenhalgh C, Spencer A, Farragher T, Gittins M, Verma A. Identifying indicators for the evaluation of community interventions and initiatives in a multi-site public health programme. J Public Health (Oxf) 2023; 45:i10-i18. [PMID: 38127563 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdad199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Measuring success of community-level programmes and interventions is important, and indicators can provide valuable information to achieve this. However, identifying appropriate indicators can be challenging. Indicators can be identified by official local stakeholders such as local authorities, but involving communities can add value and trust to the project, with community involvement likely to improve programme sustainability. METHODS As part of the evaluation of multi-site community initiatives, we used local health profiles to identify core indicators that overlapped sites. In addition, we engaged with members of the community during a pilot data collection training day to identify issues they identified as important for measuring health and well-being locally. RESULTS A total of 313 indicators were identified from local profiles, with 31 indicators meeting inclusion criteria. The community identified 26 issues, collated into eight categories, only three of which were identified in core indicators. Tools were sourced or created for the other community-identified categories. DISCUSSION The methodology identified validated indicators comparable across all sites, based on local health profiles. It also identified tools for measuring issues identified by members of the community. The exercise demonstrated disconnect between priorities of official bodies, researchers and communities, indicating multiple approaches should be considered when evaluating community initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg Williams
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Christine Greenhalgh
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Angela Spencer
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Tracey Farragher
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Matthew Gittins
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
| | - Arpana Verma
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, The University of Manchester, Stopford Building, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, UK
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Ashenafi SG, Martinez GM, Jatlaoui TC, Koppaka R, Byrne-Zaaloff M, Falcón AP, Frank A, Keitt SH, Matus K, Moss S, Ruddock C, Sun T, Waterman MB, Wu TY. Design and Implementation of a Federal Program to Engage Community Partners to Reduce Disparities in Adult COVID-19 Immunization Uptake, United States, 2021-2022. Public Health Rep 2023:333549231208642. [PMID: 38111108 DOI: 10.1177/00333549231208642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaccination disparities are part of a larger system of health inequities among racial and ethnic groups in the United States. To increase vaccine equity of racial and ethnic populations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) designed the Partnering for Vaccine Equity program in January 2021, which funded and supported national, state, local, and community organizations in 50 states-which include Indian Health Service Tribal Areas; Washington, DC; and Puerto Rico-to implement culturally tailored activities to improve access to, availability of, and confidence in COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. To increase vaccine uptake at the local level, CDC partnered with national organizations such as the National Urban League and Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum to engage community-based organizations to take action. Lessons learned from the program include the importance of directly supporting and engaging with the community, providing tailored messages and access to vaccines to reach communities where they are, training messengers who are trusted by those in the community, and providing support to funded partners through trainings on program design and implementation that can be institutionalized and sustained beyond the COVID-19 pandemic. Building on these lessons will ensure CDC and other public health partners can continue to advance vaccine equity, increase vaccine uptake, improve health outcomes, and build trust with communities as part of a comprehensive adult immunization infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samrawit G Ashenafi
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Gisela Medina Martinez
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tara C Jatlaoui
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Ram Koppaka
- Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Synovia Moss
- National Council of Negro Women, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Tracy Sun
- Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Tsu-Yin Wu
- Center for Health Disparities Innovations and Studies, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
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Ramos AK, Rech JP, Schmeits K, Carvajal M, Trinidad N, Blaskewicz Boron J, Dinkel D. Exploring the Benefits, Barriers, and Facilitators of Physical Activity and Interest in Intergenerational Physical Activity Programming Within a Hispanic/Latino Community in the Midwest. Health Promot Pract 2023:15248399231216728. [PMID: 38102812 DOI: 10.1177/15248399231216728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Hispanic/Latino individuals across the lifespan generally do not engage in enough physical activity. Intergenerational programming is an innovative solution that could improve opportunities for physical activity across the lifespan in a culturally relevant manner; however, few studies have explored perceptions of intergenerational physical activity programming among Hispanic/Latino communities. This pre-implementation study aimed to: (a) explore the perceived benefits, barriers, and facilitators of physical activity among an intergenerational sample of Hispanic/Latino community members and stakeholders and (b) assess interest in intergenerational physical activity programming. This qualitative study consisted of a total of eight focus groups (N = 45 participants): Hispanic/Latino youth (2 groups), their parents (2 groups), older Hispanic/Latino adults (3 groups), and community stakeholders who work with older adults (1 group). We used thematic analysis techniques integrating the Framework Method to compare and contrast perspectives between participant groups. We found that all groups identified physical, mental, and/or social benefits to physical activity. Primary barriers included limited physical accessibility, environmental considerations, and time constraints. Primary facilitators included physical accessibility, programming format, environmental supports, and social support. Overall, there was general interest in intergenerational physical activity programming across all groups. Practitioners are encouraged to: (a) be aware of how different age groups may view and respond to program context, fit, and communications; (b) reflect on their capacity for high-quality implementation, and (c) weigh the costs and benefits of various programming decisions. Findings can be used to design culturally, linguistically, and contextually relevant intergenerational physical activity programming and to promote health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Athena K Ramos
- Center for Reducing Health Disparities, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - John P Rech
- University of Nebraska Omaha, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Karen Schmeits
- Center for Reducing Health Disparities, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Marcela Carvajal
- Center for Reducing Health Disparities, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - Natalia Trinidad
- Center for Reducing Health Disparities, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA
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Dimitri NC, Lerman Ginzburg S, Ron S, Xu D, Angali England S, Lowe L, Botana P, Araujo Brinkerhoff C, Haque S, Brugge D, Sprague Martinez L. Advancing Environmental Justice in the Community Using Charrette: A Case Study in Boston Chinatown. Environ Justice 2023; 16:461-472. [PMID: 38074852 PMCID: PMC10704576 DOI: 10.1089/env.2022.0001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Background Community research partners in Boston Chinatown implemented a planning charrette as a part of a community-based participatory study focused on near highway research and public health action to mitigate traffic-related air pollution (TRAP). Charrettes are intensive workshops for solution-oriented design and planning used to bring together diverse stakeholders to address complex environmental health concerns. Methods The planning charrette included three phases: (1) community meetings and resident interviews, (2) a planning charrette to address community health concerns and air pollution within larger community wellness goals, and (3) development of a Master Planning document with policy, project, and practice recommendations to guide future community advocacy. Outcomes Intergenerational residents, community leaders, planners, researchers, and volunteers (N = 90) joined a day-long planning charrette to inform the Chinatown Master Plan. Workshops were informed by resident interviews focused on finding solutions to three resident identified priorities: Healthy Housing, Healthy Mobility, and Healthy Public Realm. Air pollution mitigation strategies were embedded in discussions around each priority area. Discussion The charrette provided an opportunity for community stakeholders to voice concerns about TRAP as part of a new framework focused on health and wellness. Concerns about pedestrian safety, housing access, and expansion of green and recreational spaces were highlighted by participants as important areas for further development. Conclusions Boston Chinatown residents reaffirmed their investment in the community by highlighting concerns about TRAP within the context of other health-related concerns. Charrettes offer a vehicle to advance environmental justice in communities through collective problem-solving and decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noelle C. Dimitri
- Dr. Noelle C. Dimitri is Assistant Professor at School of Social Work, Simmons University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA, and was previously a Doctoral Candidate at Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, Massachusetts, USA at the time this research was conducted
| | - Shir Lerman Ginzburg
- Dr. Shir Lerman Ginzburg is Assistant Professor of Public Health at School of Arts and Sciences, MCPHS University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA. She was a postdoctoral fellow in Public Health at University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Sharon Ron
- Sharon Ron is Senior Public Health and Regional Planner at Metropolitan Area Planning Council, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Daphne Xu
- Daphne Xu is Cultural Placekeeping Consultant at the Chinatown Community Land Trust, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Sophia Angali England
- Sophia Angali England is a student at Boston University, College of Arts and Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lydia Lowe
- Lydia Lowe is Executive Director of the Chinatown Community Land Trust, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Pilar Botana
- Pilar Botana is a Doctoral student in the Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Cristina Araujo Brinkerhoff
- Cristina Araujo Brinkerhoff is a Doctoral Candidate at the Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Samiya Haque
- Samiya Haque is a Boston University graduate student, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Doug Brugge
- Dr. Doug Brugge is a Professor in and chair of the Department of Public Health Sciences, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut, USA
| | - Linda Sprague Martinez
- Dr. Linda Sprague Martinez is an Associate Professor and former chair of the Macro Social Work Practice Department at Boston University School of Social Work, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Elmer SJ, Gohn CR, Durocher JJ, Sharma N. Reply to Surapaneni. Adv Physiol Educ 2023; 47:752. [PMID: 37703412 DOI: 10.1152/advan.00148.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Elmer
- Department of Kinesiology and Integrative Physiology, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States
- Health Research Institute, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Michigan, United States
| | - Cassandra R Gohn
- College of Pharmacy, Natural and Health Sciences, Manchester University, North Manchester, Indiana, United States
| | - John J Durocher
- Department of Biological Sciences and Integrative Physiology and Health Sciences Center, Purdue University Northwest, Hammond, Indiana, United States
| | - Naveen Sharma
- School of Health Sciences, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, Michigan, United States
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