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Children
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Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children
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Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children

A special issue of Children (ISSN 2227-9067). This special issue belongs to the section "Global Pediatric Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (5 September 2024) | Viewed by 8190

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta Iacovidou

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Neonatology, Medical School, Aretaieion Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11528 Athens, Greece
Interests: pediatrics; neonatology; neonatal resuscitation; medical education; ethics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Abraham Pouliakis

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Neonatal Department, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Aretaieio Hospital, 11528 Athens, Greece
Interests: artificial intelligence; biostatistics; ICT in medicine
Dr. Ilias Chatziioannidis

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
Interests: neonatology & pediatrics

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Public health (PH) aims to protect and improve people’s health and their communities, starting from childhood. PH strategies are obtained through research on diseases, healthy lifestyle promotion, and injury prevention and by detecting, preventing and acting on infectious diseases. The geographic coverage of a population may be as small as a neighborhood or as big as an entire country or world region, as the recent COVID-19 pandemic showed. PH involves preventive medicine (PM), which may start even before birth, through mother health assurance, promotion and education.

The aim of this Special Issue is to provide an opportunity to share experiences of PH and PM for children as a useful tool for epidemiological practice and to encourage research toward improving future possibilities in the field of PH and PM. All types of research papers are welcome, such as original studies, review articles (especially systematic reviews and meta-analyses), epidemiological experiences from the COVID-19 pandemic and all state-of-the-art methods. Furthermore, the contribution of cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and mobile technologies in all aspects of PH and PM for children are of special interest.

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta Iacovidou
Dr. Abraham Pouliakis
Dr. Ilias Chatziioannidis
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Children is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • public health
  • preventive medicine
  • children
  • neonates
  • infants
  • epidemiology
  • health policies

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Published Papers (6 papers)

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19 pages, 716 KiB  
Article
Parental Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Early Childhood Caries in Bihor, Romania: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Abel Emanuel Moca, Raluca Iulia Juncar, Rahela Tabita Moca, Mihai Juncar, Rebeca Daniela Marton and Luminița Ligia Vaida
Children 2024, 11(9), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11091131 - 18 Sep 2024
Viewed by 420
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant global health issue, particularly affecting deciduous teeth in young children. ECC is prevalent in Romania, where nearly half of children experience dental caries. This study aimed to assess the influence of gender, age, and living [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant global health issue, particularly affecting deciduous teeth in young children. ECC is prevalent in Romania, where nearly half of children experience dental caries. This study aimed to assess the influence of gender, age, and living environment on parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding ECC in Bihor County, Romania, using a KAP-type questionnaire. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between March and September 2024, utilizing an online KAP questionnaire distributed via social networks. The sample comprised 419 parents of children under six years old. Respondents provided socio-demographic data and answered questions regarding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning ECC prevention, treatment, and oral health. Statistical analysis was conducted using Chi-square tests to assess associations between demographic factors and parental KAP. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Of the 419 respondents, 83.1% were female, and 62.5% were between the ages of 31 and 40. Significant gender-based differences were found in knowledge about pain from caries (93.7% of female participants vs. 81.7% of male participants, p = 0.004) and the importance of brushing twice daily (93.7% of female respondents vs. 80.3% of male respondents, p = 0.010). Younger parents (aged 18–30) were more likely to affirm the effectiveness of fluoride (65.4%) compared to those aged 31–40 (53.1%, p = 0.02). Urban parents were more likely to correctly identify the timing of tooth eruption (59.1% vs. 52.6% of rural parents, p = 0.021). Conclusions: The study highlights gender, age, and urban–rural disparities in parental knowledge and attitudes towards ECC. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to improve oral health outcomes and reduce ECC prevalence in the Bihor region. Tailored public health strategies addressing demographic factors could enhance preventive oral health behaviors and reduce the healthcare burden associated with untreated dental caries. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
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22 pages, 5333 KiB  
Article
Surface and Mineral Changes of Primary Enamel after Laser Diode Irradiation and Application of Remineralization Agents: A Comparative In Vitro Study
by Mihaela-Valentina Cîrdei, Mădălin-Marius Margan, Roxana Margan, Alexandra Ban-Cucerzan, Ion Petre, Iosif Hulka, Razvan Mihai Horhat and Darinca Carmen Todea
Children 2024, 11(9), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11091069 - 30 Aug 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 436
Abstract
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the remineralization potential of primary teeth enamel after being exposed to different laser diode therapies. Methods: Ninety-six vestibular primary teeth enamel samples were divided into eight groups (n = 12) with varying treatments: [...] Read more.
Objectives: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the remineralization potential of primary teeth enamel after being exposed to different laser diode therapies. Methods: Ninety-six vestibular primary teeth enamel samples were divided into eight groups (n = 12) with varying treatments: control (G1), CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish (G2), diode lasers at 980 nm (G3), 808 nm (G4), 450 nm (G5), 980 nm + CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish (G6), 808 nm + CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish (G7), and 450 nm + CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish (G8). Each sample was assessed using a DIAGNOdent® (KaVo Dental, Biberach, Germany), at baseline, post-treatment, and post-pH cycle remineralization. SEM imaging was performed before and after treatment and following the pH cycle. Results: The results indicated that the 980 nm and 808 nm diode lasers, both alone and in combination with CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish, either maintained or increased the calcium (Ca) weight percentage (Wt%) in the enamel. The 980 nm diode laser combined with CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish (G6) showed a significant increase in Ca Wt%, suggesting a strong remineralization effect. Similarly, the 808 nm diode laser alone (G4) also promoted a substantial increase in Ca Wt%. In contrast, the 450 nm diode laser, whether applied alone or in combination with CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish, resulted in a lower Ca Wt% and an increase in phosphorus (P) Wt%. Most groups, except for the CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish alone (G2), demonstrated an increase in P Wt%, indicating a complex interaction between laser therapy and enamel remineralization. Conclusions: The combined use of laser therapy with CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish significantly enhanced the remineralization of temporary teeth enamel. The 980 nm diode laser + CPP-ACP-fluoride varnish showed the most pronounced improvement in remineralization, while the 808 nm diode laser alone also effectively increased calcium solubility. These findings suggest that higher-wavelength diode lasers, particularly when combined with remineralizing agents, can effectively enhance the mineral content of primary teeth and promote enamel remineralization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
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13 pages, 752 KiB  
Article
Mobile Vaccination Teams for Improving Vaccination Coverage in the Kyrgyz Republic: Results of a National Health System-Strengthening Project during the First Two Years of the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Kubanychbek Monolbaev, Alyia Kosbayeva and Marzia Lazzerini
Children 2023, 10(10), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101681 - 12 Oct 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1276
Abstract
(1) Background: This implementation study reports on the results of the mobile vaccination teams’ (MVTs) activities during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kyrgyzstan, when other vaccination services were disrupted. (2) Methods: Through a national health system-strengthening project under an [...] Read more.
(1) Background: This implementation study reports on the results of the mobile vaccination teams’ (MVTs) activities during the first two years of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kyrgyzstan, when other vaccination services were disrupted. (2) Methods: Through a national health system-strengthening project under an order of the Ministry of Health, in 2020, the number of MVTs was increased, focusing on internal immigrant settlements around the cities of Bishkek and Osh and geographically remote areas. MVTs provided free vaccination services. (3) Results: MVTs vaccinated a total of 125,289 and 158,047 children in 2020 and 2021, respectively. The higher contribution of MVTs to vaccination coverage was in children under 5 years of age, with the three top vaccines being IPV (8.9%), MMR (7%), and PCV (6.6%). In 2021, 13,000 children who had not received an IPV vaccination and 8692 children who had not received the Pentavalent vaccine (DPT-HBV-Hib) were reached. The number of cases of vaccine-preventable disease reported in official statistics has reduced over time. (4) Conclusions: MVTs increased vaccination coverage in Kyrgyzstan, in particular in remote regions and migrant settlements, where it accounted for a considerable proportion of the vaccinated. This study adds to previous evidence in the literature of the role of MVTs as a strategy to improve immunization in hard-to-reach populations, particularly children. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
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10 pages, 264 KiB  
Article
Knowledge, Beliefs, and Behaviors of Turkish Parents about Childhood Vaccination
by Zuhal Emlek Sert, Sevcan Topçu and Aysun Çelebioğlu
Children 2023, 10(10), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10101679 - 12 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1559
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vaccination is critical to the prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks and is also one of the most important public health successes. When it comes to childhood vaccinations, parents’ consent is very important. For this reason, childhood vaccination rates [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Vaccination is critical to the prevention and control of infectious disease outbreaks and is also one of the most important public health successes. When it comes to childhood vaccinations, parents’ consent is very important. For this reason, childhood vaccination rates are directly related to the knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors of the parents. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, beliefs, and behaviors of parents of children aged 0–5 regarding childhood vaccinations and how these beliefs affect their vaccination behaviors. Material and Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted on 302 parents from February to June 2020. Data were collected using a questionnaire form with 26 questions. Sociodemographic characteristics were reported as frequencies, means, and percentages. Multiple regression analysis was utilized to evaluate vaccination behaviors and affective factors. Results: About 87.1% of the parents know that vaccines protect their children from infectious diseases, and 76.8% know that vaccines can have side effects. Although 97.7% of the parents had their children fully vaccinated according to the Extended Immunization Program, 2.3% did not vaccinate their children. Moreover, 98% of the parents trust the information given by healthcare professionals about vaccination. The parents’ beliefs explain 53% (R2 = 0.53) of the parents’ child vaccination behavior. Conclusion: This study found that although the knowledge level of parents about vaccines is quite good, negative knowledge and beliefs that may affect vaccination also exist. Considered by parents as a reliable source of information, healthcare professionals should impart their knowledge, beliefs, and concerns regarding immunization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
9 pages, 508 KiB  
Article
The Association between Grand Multiparity and Adverse Neonatal Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study from Ha’il, Saudi Arabia
by Hend Alkwai, Farida Khan, Reem Alshammari, Asma Batool, Ehab Sogeir, Fahaad Alenazi, Khalid Alshammari and Ayesha Khalid
Children 2023, 10(9), 1541; https://doi.org/10.3390/children10091541 - 12 Sep 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1350
Abstract
Inconsistent evidence exists regarding the association of grand multiparity with adverse neonatal outcomes. This study aims to compare specific adverse outcomes in grand multiparas (those with five or more births at twenty or more weeks of gestation, regardless of fetal outcome) compared to [...] Read more.
Inconsistent evidence exists regarding the association of grand multiparity with adverse neonatal outcomes. This study aims to compare specific adverse outcomes in grand multiparas (those with five or more births at twenty or more weeks of gestation, regardless of fetal outcome) compared to those with lower parity (those with less than five births at twenty or more weeks of gestation, regardless of fetal outcome). A retrospective cohort study was undertaken at the Maternity and Children Hospital in Ha’il region, Saudi Arabia. After calculating the required sample size, data were collected from consenting participants with a viable singleton delivery. Socio-demographic variables, select maternal characteristics, and adverse neonatal outcomes (admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, low birth weight, prematurity, and APGAR score less than 7 in the first 5 min) were compared between grand multiparas and women with lower parity. Two hundred ninety-four participants were recruited (ninety-eight grand multiparas and one hundred ninety-six of lower parity). There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in relation to age, level of education, body mass index, and the occurrence of gestational diabetes. Out of the studied adverse neonatal outcomes after the adjustment for maternal age between the two groups, no statistically significant difference in the adverse neonatal outcomes was found between the two groups. Grand multiparity does not incur an additional risk of adverse neonatal outcomes compared to women of lower parity. Furthermore, increasing maternal age and comorbid conditions might have a more detrimental effect on neonatal outcomes than grand multiparity per se. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
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20 pages, 2764 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effect of Oral Iron Supplementation/Fortification on the Gut Microbiota in Infancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Theoni Karamantziani, Abraham Pouliakis, Theodoros Xanthos, Konstantinos Ekmektzoglou, Styliani Paliatsiou, Rozeta Sokou and Nicoletta Iacovidou
Children 2024, 11(2), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/children11020231 - 10 Feb 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2325
Abstract
(1) Background: Iron is an essential metal for the proper growth and neurodevelopment of infants. To prevent and treat iron deficiency, iron supplementation or fortification is often required. It has been shown, though, that it affects the synthesis of gut microbiota. (2) Methods: [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Iron is an essential metal for the proper growth and neurodevelopment of infants. To prevent and treat iron deficiency, iron supplementation or fortification is often required. It has been shown, though, that it affects the synthesis of gut microbiota. (2) Methods: This paper is a systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of oral iron supplementation/fortification on the gut microbiota in infancy. Studies in healthy neonates and infants who received per os iron with existing data on gut microbiota were included. Three databases were searched: PUBMED, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Quality appraisal was assessed using the ROB2Tool. (3) Results: A total of six RCTs met inclusion criteria for a systematic review, and four of them were included in the meta-analysis using both the fixed and random effects methods. Our results showed that there is very good heterogeneity in the iron group (I2 = 62%), and excellent heterogeneity in the non-iron group (I2 = 98%). According to the meta-analysis outcomes, there is a 10.3% (95% CI: −15.0–−5.55%) reduction in the bifidobacteria population in the iron group and a −2.96% reduction for the non-iron group. There is a confirmed difference (p = 0.02) in the aggregated outcomes between iron and non-iron supplement, indicative that the bifidobacteria population is reduced when iron supplementation is given (total reduction 6.37%, 95%CI: 10.16–25.8%). (4) Conclusions: The abundance of bifidobacteria decreases when iron supplementation or fortification is given to infants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Health and Preventive Medicine for Children)
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