Search Results (407)

Background: Influenza poses a serious threat to the health of older adults, and vaccination is a key strategy for prevention. As an economically developed city, Suzhou has a rapidly aging population, yet the influenza vaccination rate among older adults remains substantially lower than that in developed countries. There is an urgent need to understand the current vaccination status and its associated factors to inform future strategies for improving vaccination coverage. Objectives: To compare influenza- and vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, practices, and information access channels between vaccinated and unvaccinated older adults (≥60 years) in Suzhou, and to identify factors associated with vaccination behavior in economically developed areas. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to August 2024 across six districts or county-level cities randomly selected from Suzhou’s ten county-level administrative divisions. Participants were divided into vaccinated and unvaccinated groups based on their influenza vaccination status during the 2023–2024 influenza season. A two-stage sampling method was employed: the six districts were selected as primary sampling units; within each district, eligible older adults (aged ≥60 years) were randomly selected from two independent sampling frames—the vaccination information system for the vaccinated group and the basic public health service system for the unvaccinated group. Face-to-face structured interviews were conducted using a questionnaire consisting of four sections; data were entered using EpiData 13.1 and analyzed using SPSS 27.0. The χ² test, t-test, and multivariable logistic regression were used for statistical analysis. Results: Among 4622 valid older adults (vaccinated: n = 2007; unvaccinated: n = 2615), the vaccinated group scored significantly higher on influenza-related knowledge (4.06 ± 2.21 vs. 3.16 ± 2.33, p < 0.001), vaccine-related knowledge (2.10 ± 1.18 vs. 0.67 ± 1.07, p < 0.001), and perceived influenza risk scores (2.72 ± 1.42 vs. 2.26 ± 1.64, p < 0.001). Vaccine safety and efficacy endorsement were also markedly higher among the vaccinated group (70.3% vs. 22.0%; 49.7% vs. 9.3%). Regarding information sources, the vaccinated group relied more on healthcare institutions (54.56% vs. 46.92%), whereas the unvaccinated group relied more on television (60.34% vs. 51.17%). Multivariable logistic regression revealed that awareness of the influenza vaccine (aOR = 9.151, 95%CI: 6.32–13.25), having a planned vaccination site (aOR = 2.66, 95%CI: 2.01–3.54), and perceiving the vaccine as safe (aOR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.31–2.49) were positively associated with vaccination, while rural household registration (aOR = 0.76, 95%CI: 0.63–0.93), full-time employment (aOR = 0.41, 95%CI: 0.28–0.60), and hypertension (aOR = 0.79, 95%CI: 0.65–0.94) were inversely associated. Conclusions: Compared with the unvaccinated group, the vaccinated group demonstrated significantly better influenza- and vaccine-related knowledge, risk perception, and recognition of vaccine safety and efficacy, and relied more on healthcare institutions for information. Multivariable regression analysis identified awareness of the influenza vaccine as the strongest associated factor. These findings suggest that vaccination coverage could be improved by strengthening vaccine knowledge promotion through healthcare professionals and increasing awareness of vaccination policies that integrate medical insurance reimbursement. Full article

Background: Public acceptance of vaccines during emerging infectious disease outbreaks is influenced by perceptions of safety, accessibility, and cost. Understanding these determinants during the early phase of a pandemic is important for informing vaccination policy and communication strategies. This study examined the role of vaccine cost and safety perceptions in shaping COVID-19 vaccination intention among adults in Saudi Arabia prior to national vaccine rollout. Methods: A cross-sectional electronic survey was conducted among adults residing in Saudi Arabia between August and September 2020. Participants were recruited through online distribution using social media and electronic communication channels. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge and perceptions regarding COVID-19, and intention to receive COVID-19 vaccination under five hypothetical scenarios reflecting vaccine cost and the availability of scientific safety and efficacy evidence. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with vaccination intention. Results: A total of 1293 respondents completed the survey. When vaccination was offered free of charge, 57.5% of participants reported that they would likely receive the vaccine. Vaccination intention declined as the hypothetical vaccine price increased, reaching 38.7% when the cost exceeded 100 SAR. Intention was lowest when vaccination was presented under conditions in which safety and efficacy evidence had not yet been confirmed. Age, gender, educational attainment, and prior seasonal influenza vaccination were associated with COVID-19 vaccination intention across several scenarios. Conclusions: Perceived vaccine affordability and confidence in scientific safety and efficacy evidence were important factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination intention during the early phase of the pandemic in Saudi Arabia. Providing vaccination without direct cost to recipients and communicating safety and efficacy evidence transparently may support public confidence and vaccine acceptance during future large-scale immunization campaigns. These findings should be interpreted as an early-pandemic baseline and should not be extrapolated to current post-rollout attitudes. Full article

Migrant agricultural workers (MAWs), predominantly individuals from countries in the Global South, play a vital role in maintaining Canadian food security. Employed in low-income positions across the country, they often face workplace hazards and numerous occupational health and safety (OHS) challenges related to long working hours, limited access to OHS information, gaps in knowledge, structural power imbalances with employers, and language and cultural barriers. This pilot study explored the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of OHS issues among MAWs in Southern and Eastern Ontario during the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants completed survey questions on working conditions, OHS hazards, and living conditions. A total of 93 questionnaires were completed, 55 by Spanish-speaking and 38 by English-speaking individuals, with 91% of respondents identifying as male. Several participants reported awareness of positive COVID-19 cases in their workplaces, and some indicated having experienced OHS-related illnesses or injuries but felt uncomfortable reporting them to supervisors. Knowledge of OHS rights varied, with a notable minority uncertain about their entitlement to sick leave. The findings indicate a need for further research and targeted interventions to strengthen health and safety practices among MAWs and to ensure they are informed, protected, and supported in exercising their workplace rights. Full article

The study examined the relationships among proactive personality, laboratory safety affective/cognitive/behavioral attitude among graduate students using a questionnaire survey method. The results showed that proactive personality was positively associated with laboratory safety affective/cognitive/behavioral attitude. In addition, laboratory safety affective and cognitive attitude functioned as parallel mediators between proactive personality and laboratory safety behavioral attitude. The results provide fundamental data support for effective laboratory safety management. Full article

Background: Digital health technologies have expanded access to home fetal heart rate (FHR) monitoring devices, enabling fetal surveillance outside clinical settings. However, evidence on women’s awareness, acceptance, and experiences with these devices remains limited. Objective: To assess awareness, adoption, user experience, perceived reassurance, and attitudes toward home FHR monitoring among pregnant and postpartum women. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. Eligible participants were women aged ≥18 years who were currently pregnant or had been pregnant within the previous two years. The survey evaluated awareness and use of home FHR monitoring devices, usage patterns, sources of recommendation and instruction, emotional responses, perceived reassurance, mobile application integration, and overall attitudes. Descriptive statistics and exploratory subgroup analyses were performed. Results: A total of 225 women completed the survey; 166 (73.8%) reported using a home FHR monitoring device during pregnancy. Most users reported positive emotional experiences, with calmness as the most common response. Home monitoring was generally perceived as reassuring, and many participants felt calmer on days of device use. Gynecologists were the primary source of device recommendations and usage instructions. Participants highlighted the importance of professional guidance, clear instructions, and mobile application support. Primiparous women had significantly higher adoption rates than multiparous women (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Home FHR monitoring was widely accepted and commonly perceived as reassuring. These devices may support patient-centered prenatal care when accompanied by appropriate professional guidance. Further prospective studies are needed to assess their clinical utility, safety, and integration into prenatal care pathways. Full article

This study addresses the critical importance of fire safety considerations during the design phase of commercial buildings, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where urbanization and climate-specific risks pose unique challenges. Recognizing that high-risk structures often experience fire-related incidents due to inadequate safety measures, this research develops a comprehensive framework to guide design professionals in integrating effective fire safety strategies. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined a literature review, qualitative expert interviews, and a questionnaire survey. The final quantitative analysis was based on 86 valid survey responses, including 29 authority or regulation implementers, 28 designers, and 29 stakeholders. The survey results highlighted significant gaps in knowledge and implementation, particularly among stakeholders. Key challenges identified included cultural attitudes toward safety, lack of training, and inadequate use of fire-resistant materials. The framework proposes a structured methodology for enhancing fire safety measures across the design stages, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among architects, engineers, safety consultants, and regulatory bodies. Recommendations include regular updates to fire safety documents, fostering a culture of safety awareness, and conducting post-occupancy evaluations to assess the effectiveness of implemented measures. Ultimately, this research aims to benefit various stakeholders, including design professionals and regulatory agencies, by promoting a proactive approach to fire safety that enhances building resilience and protects lives and property in commercial environments. Full article

Higher education institutions, particularly those with teaching and research laboratories, play an important role in transmitting knowledge and attitudes regarding chemical safety to their students. As such, this study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of higher education students across different study programs regarding laboratory chemical safety. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire adapted and translated into Portuguese. The instrument comprised twenty-seven questions and was distributed to students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs that include laboratory practices in their curricula in March and July of 2025. A total of 284 students participated in the study, divided among the different study programs (CTeSP = 4.2%; Bachelor’s = 70.4%; Master’s = 21%; Doctorate = 4.2%). The results showed that, although a large percentage of students have a high level of knowledge, their attitudes are not always the most appropriate, which could jeopardize their safety and that of those around them. Our findings revealed that there is room for curriculum adjustments. Early exposure to chemical and laboratory safety concepts can promote the development of students’ awareness and future professionals’ competence. Integrating safety modules into education may enhance knowledge and skills for making informed decisions that reduce accidents/incidents in laboratory environments. Full article

This study evaluated the effectiveness of a youth-developed vaping intervention created by the Airdrie Board of Youth Affairs (ABYA) in changing Grade 7 and 8 students’ knowledge, attitudes, and harm perceptions regarding e-cigarette use. The vaping video trial followed a preceding local education program on smoking harms. A total of 107 students were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (ABYA video) or the control group (expert-developed video). Four instruments were used: the Video Survey, Personal Information Questionnaire, Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding E-cigarette Ingredients, Safety, and Addictive Properties (KAS), and the E-cigarette Harm Perception and Reduction (EHI). Pre- and post-intervention data were analyzed using t-tests and Mann–Whitney U tests. Compared with controls, the intervention group showed a significantly larger mean decrease in total EHI scores (mean change 9.05 vs. 2.06; t(105) = 3.34, p = 0.001; Cohen’s d = 0.65), indicating that the youth-developed video increased the perceived risk of vaping relative to cigarettes to a greater extent than the expert-developed video. Students also rated the ABYA video significantly higher on a 5-point scale for overall enjoyment (3.13 vs. 2.33; p < 0.001; Cohen’s d = 0.81) and for perceived increase in knowledge about vaping (3.34 vs. 2.84; p = 0.023; Cohen’s d = 0.44). The KAS instrument showed low internal consistency in this sample, so item-level KAS findings were treated as exploratory. Notably, unlike the expert-developed video, which explicitly acknowledged uncertainty, the ABYA video conveyed a clearer and more direct message, which may have contributed to its greater appeal while also carrying a risk of overstating absolute risk of e-cigarettes relative to cigarettes. Overall, these findings suggest that grassroots, youth-led interventions may be an effective approach for adolescent vaping education and may offer advantages over traditional expert-developed messaging in some contexts. Full article

Background: Food contamination in institutional food service settings remains a significant public health concern, particularly where large numbers of consumers are exposed daily. This study aimed to assess chemical and microbiological contamination, evaluate food handlers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP), and identify contamination patterns in university food outlets. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted across all 77 food outlets within a university in northern Thailand. KAP was assessed using a structured questionnaire, while chemical and microbiological contamination were evaluated using standard screening methods. Results: Food handlers demonstrated generally high KAP scores; however, microbiological contamination was still observed, including Escherichia coli on food handlers’ hands (27.3%) and food-contact utensils (14.3%), as well as Salmonella spp. in ready-to-eat food (6.5%). In contrast, chemical contamination was rarely detected in screening tests. Moreover, cluster analysis identified four distinct contamination patterns, indicating heterogeneity in contamination risk across outlets. Conclusions: These findings suggest that reported food safety practices may not fully prevent contamination and that food safety management should incorporate both behavioral and operational controls to effectively reduce contamination risks in institutional settings. Full article

Background: Dietitians play a critical role in preventing food–drug interactions (FDIs) and drug–nutrient interactions (DNIs); however, evidence regarding their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) in Saudi Arabia remains limited. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess dietitians’ KAP regarding FDIs and DNIs and examine their associations with socio-demographic and professional characteristics. Methods: A national cross-sectional study was conducted among 353 dietitians using a validated and modified questionnaire. Knowledge was assessed via 15 multiple-choice items (score range 0–15) and categorized as poor (0–5), moderate (6–10), or good (11–15). Attitudes were assessed using 8 Likert-scale statements (score range 8–40) and classified as negative (8–19), neutral (20–29), or positive (30–40). Practices were assessed via 6 frequency-scale items (score range 6–30) and categorized as poor (6–14), moderate (15–23), or good (24–30). Associations were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: In total, 65.2% of participants demonstrated poor knowledge. Knowledge level was significantly associated with nationality (p = 0.011), educational qualification (p = 0.042), attendance at FDI/DNI training courses (p = 0.003), and inclusion of related topics during university education (p = 0.013). Higher knowledge levels were also associated with managing digestive diseases (p = 0.001), cardiovascular diseases (p = 0.020), and cancer (p = 0.031). Positive attitudes were reported by 77.6% of participants and were significantly associated with managing cardiovascular disease (p < 0.001) and obesity (p = 0.008). Good practices were observed in 36.3% of dietitians and were significantly associated with younger age (p = 0.024), more recent graduation (p = 0.006), fewer years of professional experience (p = 0.002), and managing obesity (p = 0.016). Knowledge was positively associated with practice (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Despite generally positive attitudes, substantial gaps in knowledge and practice regarding FDIs and DNIs exist among dietitians in Saudi Arabia. Strengthening academic curricula and continuing professional education is essential to enhance competency and improve patient safety. Full article

Food trucks (FTs) are becoming increasingly popular in Saudi Arabia. However, inadequate food safety practices and limited consumer awareness of foodborne pathogens may increase the risk of foodborne illnesses associated with consumption from FTs. Therefore, we assessed consumer knowledge, attitudes, associations with sociodemographic characteristics, and dietary patterns among FT customers. A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Makkah region, Saudi Arabia, between March to October 2025. An online questionnaire was completed by 500 adults covering sociodemographic characteristics, food safety knowledge, attitudes, pathogen awareness, and dietary intake. Data were analyzed using the independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and linear regression. The mean scores for awareness, knowledge, and attitudes were 16.7 ± 3.8, 14.7 ± 3.3, and 30.8 ± 5.3, respectively. Women had considerably higher knowledge and awareness scores than men (p < 0.0001). Significant correlations were found between food safety knowledge and attitude scores (r  =  0.531, p  <  0.001), food safety knowledge and awareness scores (r  =  0.633, p  <  0.001), and attitude and awareness scores (r  =  0.429, p  <  0.001). A trend toward high fruit consumption was observed among participants with high knowledge and awareness scores. These findings highlight the need for targeted consumer education to improve pathogen awareness among FT customers. Full article

Background/Objectives: The gut microbiota is fundamental to human health. Probiotics are key interventions for modulating microbial balance, requiring future healthcare professionals to understand these concepts. Evidence evaluating the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of medical students in Ecuador is limited. This study assessed these aspects among students in Greater Guayaquil. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at a university in Samborondón between August and November 2025. A previously published questionnaire was used to collect data on microbiota and probiotic knowledge, attitudes, and personal practices. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multivariable regression. Results: Among 382 participants, the mean knowledge score was 22.76 ± 9.1 out of 44 (52.7%). Higher scores were associated with advanced academic standing and prior formal instruction. Significant gaps were observed in probiotic safety and microbiota–drug interactions. Attitudes were positive (median 10/16), with strong support for enhanced training. Probiotic use was common, though uncertainty about product composition and administration persisted. Conclusions: Medical students possess moderate yet uneven knowledge of microbiota and probiotics, alongside positive attitudes. These findings suggest the need for greater emphasis on microbiota science, probiotic safety, and drug interactions within medical curricula. Full article

Background/Objectives: Health promotion (HPr) is increasingly recognized as an essential component of modern pharmacy practice. In developing countries like Pakistan, pharmacists’ roles are evolving from traditional dispensing toward extended pharmacy services (EPS). This study evaluated the willingness, knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers of pharmacists in Karachi, Pakistan, regarding the provision of HPr-focused EPS. Methods: An online, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted between October 2024 and April 2025, using a 32-item questionnaire. Purposive and snowball sampling were employed to recruit pharmacists, including interns and fresh graduates. Descriptive and inferential statistics (χ², Fisher’s exact and Welch’s t-tests) were used for data analysis. Results: Of N = 389 respondents (mean age 29.8 ± 4.8 years), 85.1% expressed willingness to provide HPr services. A majority of respondents (72.7% and 70.4%, respectively) felt they possessed sufficient knowledge for HPr and for identifying lifestyle-related risks, while more experienced pharmacists (>1 year) reported higher confidence (p < 0.001 and p = 0.043). Positive attitudes toward public health involvement were high (82.3%), particularly among females (p < 0.001), younger pharmacists and fresh graduates (p = 0.019 and p = 0.010). However, only 39.1% believed they had sufficient time for patient education. Practicing pharmacists (n = 114) were most frequently involved in dietary advice (4.38 ± 0.89) and medication safety education (4.36 ± 0.97), while family planning counseling (2.92 ± 1.36) was the least commonly reported activity. Leading barriers identified via word cloud analysis included lack of time (n = 101), perceived lack of necessary skills (n = 96), insufficient resources (n = 91), limited technology access (n = 89), and lack of specific protocols (n = 84). Conclusions: Pakistani pharmacists demonstrate high professional willingness to engage in HPr-focused EPS. However, systemic barriers—primarily time constraints and a lack of supportive infrastructure—impede the full integration of these services into routine practice. Policy interventions, standardized protocols, and reimbursement models are necessary to leverage pharmacists’ potential in primary healthcare. Full article

Background: Exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust remains a significant occupational health challenge in the Southern African Development Community region, leading to high incidences of silicosis and pulmonary tuberculosis, particularly among mining workers. This study evaluated the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of mineworkers regarding silica dust risks across Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted involving 1440 mineworkers exposed to silica dust in mines across four SADC countries. Data were collected using structured questionnaires covering socio-demographic traits and knowledge, attitude, and practices. Data analysis was conducted using Stata version 18. Results: While 91% of participants exhibited adequate knowledge and 88% demonstrated acceptable practices, 51% maintained negative safety attitudes. Knowledge scores were positively correlated with company training (r = 0.386). However, a “Training Paradox” emerged in the regression model: compulsory company training was significantly associated with a 1.20-unit decrease in practice scores, whereas external training and higher education levels (+2.98 units) predicted improved compliance. Technicians and younger workers were identified as higher-risk cohorts. Conclusions: The findings suggest that top-down mandatory training may trigger psychological reactance, undermining behavioural safety. To mitigate silica-related diseases, industry stakeholders should transition toward participatory, role-specific safety interventions that prioritize worker autonomy and cognitive engagement over administrative compliance. Full article

Background: The Operating Room Management Attitudes Questionnaire (ORMAQ) is widely used to assess operating room (OR) staff attitudes toward patient safety and teamwork across diverse contexts. However, no validated French version currently exists, limiting its use in francophone settings. This study aimed to translate and culturally adapt the ORMAQ into French and to evaluate its psychometric properties, while also reporting OR professionals’ attitudes explored during the validation process. Methods: A cross-sectional methodological study was conducted among OR professionals, including surgeons, anesthetists, anesthesia nurses, operating room nurses, and residents. The original ORMAQ was translated into French using a standardized forward–backward translation procedure and pretested with 20 OR professionals. Content and concurrent validity were examined. Reliability was assessed through internal consistency, test–retest reproducibility, and dimension-level consistency. Construct validity was examined using both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (CFA). Results: The overall response rate to the survey was 76.5% (n = 303). The French ORMAQ demonstrated good internal consistency, as evidenced by both Cronbach’s alpha (α = 0.842) and McDonald’s Omega (ω = 0.98). For the individual dimensions, reliability values ranged from 0.597 to 0.891 for alpha and from 0.75 to 0.89 for Omega. Test–retest analysis showed excellent reproducibility (ICC = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.92–0.98). Factor analyses supported the eight-factor structure, with the CFA confirming good model fit and meaningful item loadings across dimensions, with standardized loadings ranging from 0.40 to 0.83. Conclusions: The French version of the ORMAQ showed satisfactory psychometric properties. It represents a robust tool for assessing safety and teamwork attitudes among OR professionals in francophone countries. Full article