Search Results (146)

The growing interest in no- and low-alcohol (NoLo) wines reflects evolving consumer preferences toward moderation, health, and mindful drinking. This study investigates consumer perception and acceptance of NoLo wines within a traditional wine context (Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy), based on a survey of 344 people. Respondents were primarily between 18 and 34 years old. Descriptive results indicated low familiarity and purchase frequency but positive attitudes, especially among women and health-oriented consumers. Nonparametric tests revealed that gender significantly affected familiarity, social acceptance, and willingness to recommend NoLo wines, with women respondents showing higher engagement and acceptance. Age showed a weaker but still significant effect on familiarity, while consumers who regularly consumed NoLo beverages exhibited greater social acceptance and willingness to recommend. In addition, logit and probit models suggested that preference for mid-to-low alcohol levels and prior experience with alcohol-free drinks positively influenced purchase frequency. In contrast, traditional wine consumption habits and expenditure had no significant effects. These findings suggest that while NoLo wine adoption in a premium wine region such as Trentino-Alto Adige is in an emerging phase, it is underpinned by evolving young consumer motivations toward moderation, well-being, and social inclusivity, offering clear opportunities for targeted market development and product innovation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Craft non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beer (NABLAB) is attracting increasing attention as potential functional beverages due to their content of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals, and their suitability for health-oriented lifestyles. This study investigated Italian consumers’ perceptions of craft NABLAB and explored possible generational differences in their acceptance. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional online survey was conducted between March 2024 and March 2025 among adults living in Italy. The questionnaire, composed entirely of closed-ended questions, investigated familiarity with craft NABLAB, attitudes toward their potential health-related properties, and willingness to recommend them. Results: A total of 527 valid responses were analyzed descriptively and grouped by generation (Generation Z, Millennials, Generation X, and Baby Boomers). Results showed that 68.3% of participants would recommend craft NABLAB to others interested in their functional properties, while 55.0% reported higher motivation to purchase when informed about their potential health benefits. Familiarity with these products remained limited (34.7% had tried them, and only 22.2% considered them easy to find). Baby Boomers and Millennials were more receptive, possibly due to greater health awareness and openness to innovation, whereas Generation Z displayed curiosity despite lower consumption experience. Conclusions: Overall, Italian consumers show a growing interest in craft NABLAB, especially when linked to wellness and active lifestyle benefits. Enhancing product availability and communication focused on health and functionality could promote more moderate and conscious drinking habits, contributing to a gradual cultural shift toward reduced alcohol consumption. Full article

Background: Renal stone disease is a common urological condition considered to be greatly affected by lifestyle, dietary practices, and hydration status. With the rapid advancement and remarkable rise in digital communication, social media has become an important source of health information. However, little is known about its effects on raising public awareness of dietary and fluid-related risk factors for kidney stone formation, particularly in Middle Eastern populations. Aim: We aimed to evaluate the impact of social media platforms on public awareness of dietary habits and fluid consumption in relation to kidney stone prevention. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was applied to 980 adults with varying demographic characteristics. Data on social media use, dietary and fluid knowledge, and attitudes toward kidney stone prevention were collected through structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including regression and mediation models, were employed to identify predictors of awareness and explore pathways linking social media use to knowledge and attitudes. Results: Among the 980 participants (mean age = 29.9 ± 11 years; 55.4% males), 69.9% held university degrees, and 7.2% had a history of kidney stones. The overall awareness of kidney stone prevention varied, with most of the participants recognizing the protective role of adequate hydration (67%) and the adverse impact of soft-drink consumption (73.2%), while knowledge of dietary contributors such as animal protein and tea was limited. Greater knowledge and more appropriate attitudes were associated with older age, female gender, following healthcare professionals, and engagement with medical websites, YouTube, and TikTok. Mediation analysis revealed that social media influenced awareness indirectly through improvements in knowledge and attitudes. Conclusions: This study reveals that the digital environment shapes both public knowledge of and attitudes toward kidney stone prevention, though critical knowledge gaps persist regarding complex dietary factors. Mediation analysis indicated that the digital influence is likely channeled through improvements in knowledge and attitudes. We emphasize that source credibility is paramount; relying on official medical websites and following health professionals were the most effective strategies for boosting awareness. Therefore, expert-led educational strategies must be integrated into public health protocols. Full article

Background: Energy drink [ED] consumption is common among young adults and has been linked to adverse health effects and risky behaviors. This study compared medical and non-medical university students to assess whether health education influences knowledge, consumption, and attitudes toward EDs. Although medical and non-medical students are not minors, their opinions on the national ban on EDs sales to individuals under 18 provide valuable insight into attitudes toward regulation. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among 871 students (42.1% medical, 57.9% non-medical). The questionnaire assessed demographics, ED consumption, knowledge, motivations, and regulatory attitudes. It was pilot-tested on 30 students to ensure clarity, and internal consistency was confirmed (Cronbach’s α = 0.78 for knowledge; α = 0.81 for attitudes). Non-parametric tests (Mann–Whitney U, Kruskal–Wallis) and chi-square analyses compared groups. Results: Participants’ mean age was 22.1 years; most were female (73.2%). Medical students demonstrated significantly better knowledge of ED ingredients (simple sugars, B vitamins, L-carnitine, electrolytes; p < 0.01) and adverse effects (e.g., irritability, dizziness, nausea; p < 0.05). However, ED consumption frequency did not differ between medical and non-medical students. The main reasons for ED use were energy and concentration; social motives were less frequent. Female students more often supported the ban on ED sales to minors and additional advertising restrictions (p < 0.001), while overall confidence in enforcement was low. Conclusions: Despite greater awareness, medical students consume EDs at rates comparable to non-medical students. Educating medical students on safe caffeine use is crucial, since shift work may promote stimulant intake. Combining targeted education with stronger enforcement could enhance the impact of regulatory policies and reduce risky consumption among young adults. Full article

Coastal Bangladesh faces severe drinking water scarcity due to salinity intrusion. To address this challenge, the study assesses the socio-technical and economic factors shaping the performance of small-scale reverse osmosis (RO) desalination plants through field audits, household surveys, stakeholder interviews, and water quality analysis. Community acceptance was evaluated using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). Feedwater was highly contaminated, with average TDS 3732.63 mg/L, hardness 636.36 mg/L, iron (Fe) 3.23 mg/L, and turbidity 14.63 NTU. Despite this, RO systems demonstrated strong performance, achieving removal efficiencies of 95.15% for salts, 95.95% for hardness, and 91.67% for alkalinity, with an average recovery rate of 37.25% (range: 20–60%). Treated water met WHO and Bangladesh standards, with mean concentrations of TDS (195.54 mg/L), Fe (0.21 mg/L), arsenic (0.0085 mg/L), and turbidity (1.09 NTU). However, inadequate operator training and a lack of maintenance threaten sustainability. Energy consumption increased by 0.1 kWh/m³ per 1000 mg/L rise in salinity, while financial constraints hinder membrane replacement. TPB analysis revealed positive attitudes and perceived behavioral control as key adoption drivers. Untreated brine discharge (mean TDS 12,900 mg/L) posed significant environmental risks. This study provides micro-level insights to inform policy and strengthen the sustainability of decentralized RO systems in climate-vulnerable coastal regions. Full article

Microplastic pollution is an escalating environmental and public health issue. Defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in size, microplastics have been found in oceans, rivers, food, drinking water, air, and even human tissues. While scientific research on microplastics has expanded significantly, public understanding and behavioral change remain limited. This literature scan synthesizes global findings on public awareness, perceptions, and responses to microplastics, drawing from surveys, focus groups, and online behavioral data collected by existing studies. It explores the following: (1) general knowledge and perceived environmental and health risks; (2) trust in scientific and governmental sources; (3) willingness to adopt behavioral changes; (4) attitudes toward policy and corporate responsibility. Public concern is high, especially regarding marine life and food safety, but varies across populations based on education, socioeconomic status, and media exposure. Despite growing concern, psychological distance and persistent knowledge gaps hinder meaningful action. Communication strategies such as school programs, media campaigns, and eco-labels show mixed success, while regulatory interventions like plastic bags or microbead bans are more effective when supported by clear public messaging. This literature scan highlights the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to close the knowledge–behavior–policy gap and strengthen public engagement, particularly in urban settings where consumption and waste generation are concentrated. Full article

Background: In 2024, Poland introduced a ban on the sale of energy drinks to individuals under 18 years of age. The aim of this study was to assess energy drink consumption among adolescents aged 12–17 years and to evaluate the effectiveness of this regulation. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2025, using an anonymous questionnaire. A total of 1691 students from primary and secondary schools, living in both urban and rural areas, participated. Results: Consumption of energy drinks in the month preceding the survey was reported by 41.1% of students, with the likelihood of consumption increasing by nearly 50% with each additional year of age (OR = 1.496; 95% CI: 1.381–1.621; p < 0.001). Secondary school students reported significantly higher consumption compared with primary school students (47.1% vs. 21.6%; p < 0.001). The median consumption frequency was 1–2 times per month among primary school students and 1–2 times per week among secondary school students. More than half of adolescents (58.1%) stated that the sales ban did not restrict their access to energy drinks, with adult-mediated purchases being the most common source. Among those attempting direct purchases in physical shops, only 19.3% were consistently asked to provide proof of age. Over half of the respondents did not believe that energy drinks can be harmful to their health; these students reported consumption more than twice as often as students who regarded them as harmful (54.0% vs. 23.9%; p < 0.001). Conclusions: These findings suggest that, to date, the ban on energy drink sales to minors in Poland has had a limited impact on adolescent consumption, highlighting the need for enhanced educational initiatives in this area. However, the study was cross-sectional in nature and was not conducted on a nationally representative sample of adolescents, which should be taken into account when interpreting the results. Full article

Background/Objectives: Sugar added to pediatric oral medications may increase the risk of dental caries and erosion. Parental awareness and practices play a crucial role in minimizing the oral health risks associated with such medications. Therefore, the aim was to assess parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the cariogenic potential of pediatric oral medications in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire. Parents who had at least one child between 2 and 12 years old were included. Participants were categorized into three groups based on the long-term intake of medications and their child’s health status. Group 1: Parents of children with chronic diseases on long-term medications. Group 2: Parents of healthy children on long-term medications. Group 3: Parents of healthy children not on long-term medications. Results: A total of 2195 responses were collected. The majority of parents were aged 31–40 years. More than half of the mothers and fathers had a diploma or a university degree (59% and 54.3%, respectively). Although a high proportion of the parents (78–83%) were aware that medications often contained sugar, only 46–50% were aware of their cariogenic potential, while 27–38% speculated about their erosive potential. In terms of practices, most parents encouraged their children to drink water (70–71%) or rinse their mouths (14–20%) after medication intake. Conclusions: While most parents were aware that pediatric oral medications may contain sugar, there was a lack of proactive measures to mitigate their negative impact on oral health. Further studies are still needed to evaluate and improve public awareness and practices regarding the oral health risks associated with pediatric medications. Full article

The objective was to conduct a review and meta-analysis of questionnaire-based surveys of dengue knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices (KAP)s among the general public in Sri Lanka as no prior island-wide survey existed. The electronic database PubMed and other bibliography were searched for literature on dengue questionnaire-based KAP surveys in Sri Lanka from 2000–2023. Data pertaining to the three domains were extracted from sixteen eligible articles, pooled, and analyzed separately using random effect models. Meta-analyses of the three domains were performed using R version 3.6.3. The population surveyed (8955) was <0.045% of the total Sri Lankan population. The publication frequency increased over time and surveys were distributed in Colombo and suburbs 43.7% (7/16), Kandy 25% (4/16,) Gampaha 12.5% (2/16), and 6.3% (1/16) one each in Kurunegala, Matara, Batticaloa, and Jaffna. Knowledge on dengue transmission, vector breeding, and fever as a symptom was >80%, while on vector species, preferred feeding times, recurrence of dengue it was > 55% and on warning signs of severity it was 25%. Attitudes towards community participation in dengue prevention activities and knowledge of dengue risk factors (avoidance of aspirin and dark colored drinks) were poor, while practice of control measures (removal of water collecting receptacles, roof-gutter management) lacked regularity. Full article

Background/Objectives: Voluntary stopping of eating and drinking (VSED) is a way to hasten death or end life prematurely. VSED is controversial, and research is essential to inform this debate. The aim was to systematically synthesize empirical data on the attitudes, motives, and experiences related to VSED from the perspective of caregivers. Methods: This systematic mixed-methods review (PROSPERO CRD42022283743) included qualitative and quantitative research. The MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and BELIT databases were searched for English and German articles published between 1 January 2013 and 12 November 2021. Studies examining experiences, attitudes, and knowledge regarding VSED were eligible. We analyzed the data inductively after quantitative data transformation. Quality and confidence were assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) and GRADE-CERQual approach, respectively. Results: We identified 22 articles, including 16 studies. The participants were healthcare professionals and relatives, but not those who chose VSED. The motives for VSED are based on high symptom burdens and are closely related to self-determination. Most perceive VSED as a natural death and accept the patient’s decision. However, this acceptance also depends on other factors, such as patient characteristics. Most healthcare professionals would accompany patients during VSED, sometimes leading to advocacy. Relatives often play an active role in VSED and may experience distressing grief if they struggle with their support or the dying situation. The confidence in the review findings ranged from moderate to very low. Our findings on the challenging and positive experiences related to VSED and the resulting needs have been published elsewhere. Conclusions: VSED is a complex phenomenon affecting patients, nursing staff, physicians, and relatives. We provide an empirical basis for VSED to support research, debate, and practice. Full article

Background: From 1 January 2024, Poland legally banned the sale of energy drinks (EDs) containing caffeine and taurine to minors under 18. EDs are rich in stimulants, making them particularly popular among adolescents and young adults seeking energy boosts. Their consumption is associated with adverse health effects and engagement in risky behaviors. This descriptive snapshot study explores energy drink consumption, motivations, and risk perception among Polish adults. Methods: A cross-sectional, nationwide survey (N = 1121) was conducted over a three-day period using the computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) method. The sample was representative of the adult Polish population in terms of gender, age, and geographical location. Data collection occurred 14 months after the implementation of legal restrictions on ED sales to minors. Results: Among 1121 adults (54.3% female), 15.1% reported weekly ED consumption, 9.7% monthly, 13.3% less than monthly, and 62.0% never. Younger age (p < 0.05), male gender (aOR = 1.63 [1.25–2.13]; p < 0.001), and active occupational status (aOR = 1.63 [1.19–2.24]; p = 0.002) were significantly associated with ED use. Overall, 83.0% of respondents perceived EDs as harmful, and 87.2% supported the sales ban to minors, although only 45.6% considered the ban effective. Additionally, 31.8% had observed minors consuming EDs in the past 30 days. Sociodemographic characteristics were associated with risk perception and support for regulation: women (aOR = 1.50), individuals with higher education (aOR = 1.44), and those with good financial status (aOR = 2.35) were more likely to perceive EDs as harmful and endorse regulatory measures. Conclusions: Educational interventions should prioritize young adults, particularly males, who constitute the primary consumers. There is also a need to enhance enforcement mechanisms to limit minors’ access to energy drinks and curb their marketing and availability, thereby improving public health protection. Full article

Adolescents’ health risk behavior may have a longstanding impact on their later adult life and health. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to report on health risk behaviors and sexual attitudes in a sample of Mongolian adolescents (N = 312) in light of their levels of social support and well-being. Measurements were derived from the Health Behavior in School-aged Children (HBSC), including substance use and sexual behavior, whereas social support from parents and peers was measured with the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Student well-being was evaluated using the WHO Well-Being Questionnaire (WBI-5). The frequency of current smokers was 13.1% (boys: 18.9%, girls: 10.2%; χ² = 4.61, Phi = −0.12, p = 0.032). The prevalence rate of current alcohol consumption was 11.2% (boys: 14.2%, girls: 9.7%; χ² = 1.38, Phi = −0.07, p > 0.05), similar to the nationwide results. The percentage of students who have ever had sexual intercourse was 6.4 (12.4% of boys and 3.4% of girls, χ² = 9.33, Phi = 0.17, p = 0.006), similar to Central Asian countries included in the HBSC survey. Boys were more likely to associate sexual activity with self-esteem, intimacy with a partner, and positive perceptions among peers. Conversely, girls expressed greater concern about the negative consequences of sexual activity, such as STDs and pregnancy. Social support from the family played a protective role in frequencies of smoking and drinking. However, levels of the social support subscales did not differ by the students’ relationship status or previous sexual intercourse. These results suggest that there is a need for a complex prevention program to avoid increases in Mongolian adolescents’ smoking and drinking and promote their healthy sexual attitudes and behavior. Full article

The human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV 16) is a high-risk human papillomavirus strain commonly associated with oropharyngeal cancers, including lymph node involvement. The treatment for HPV 16-related tonsil cancer, commonly involving surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, presents significant challenges. Complications such as oral mucositis, xerostomia, dysphagia, dysgeusia, hypogeusia, impaired gustatory function, and significant weight loss frequently arise, leading to reduced nutritional intake, impaired healing, and recovery progression. These challenges underscore the need for supportive interventions to enhance rehabilitation and the post-recovery period, improve treatment tolerance, and maintain quality of life. Objective: This single-subject study examines a 67-year-old male patient diagnosed with a T1N3b (small primary tumor with advanced lump node involvement) associated with HPV 16 positivity, indicating a virus-associated oncogenesis. Methods: The patient underwent radiation therapy and chemotherapy, leading to treatment-associated side effects. After having dietary drinks for daily nourishment, the patient routinely incorporated oral bio extra virgin olive oil (BEVOO) to cope with indicated challenges. Results: Body composition and metabolic parameters showed treatment-induced declines, followed by substantial but not complete recovery during follow-up examination. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores reflected gradual improvements in dysphagia, xerostomia, mucositis, and subtle but ongoing enhancement of the dysgeusia, gustatory perception, and oral palatability. The BEVOO supplementation and mindfulness were associated with positive recovery trends. Additional variables could have impacted the outcomes, preceding and throughout treatment, including the patient’s cognitive and somatic health, environmental conditions, dietary habits, individual attitudes toward recovery, physical activity, and patient way of life. Conclusions: These results emphasize the need for additional research employing a comprehensive, multi-factorial framework that accounts for the complex interplay of physiological, psycho-social, and environmental contributors. More extensive, more diverse studies are essential to confirm these observations and substantiate the role of BEVOO as a supportive intervention in cancer recovery. Full article

Toxoplasmosis is a parasitic, foodborne infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii. The infection can be transmitted through various routes, including the following: (i) the consumption of vegetables, fruits, or drinking water containing sporulated oocysts; (ii) the consumption of raw or undercooked meat; (iii) transmission from mother to fetus; (iv) through blood transfusion; and (v) transplantation of solid organs, bone marrow, or hematopoietic stem cells. Infection is generally asymptomatic or exhibits a mild clinical presentation in those with adequate immune function; however, the clinical outcomes becomes more severe in both fetal and immunocompromised individuals. In this work, we reviewed the current literature, primarily focusing on epidemiological and neurobiological aspects. Using the PubMed database, we conducted a search by combining the following terms: “Toxoplasma gondii” or “Toxoplasmosis” and “neuropsychiatric” “diseases” or “disorders” or “psychiatric” “diseases” or “disorders” or “neurological” “diseases” or “disorders” or “neurobehavioral disorders” or “behavioral disorders” or “schizophrenia” or “bipolar disorder” or “autism spectrum disorder” or “Parkinson’s disease” or “Alzheimer’s disease”. No language or time restrictions were applied in the literature review, which was concluded in April 2024. Although the literature does not yet provide definitive answers, current data should be considered sufficient to change attitudes toward toxoplasmosis prevention and treatment measures. The focus should be not only with regard to seronegative pregnant women and immunocompromised patients, but also to people particularly prone to developing neuropsychiatric diseases. Full article

Background/Objectives: Effective diabetes self-management requires useful knowledge and health-related literacy based on a positive attitude toward seeking health information on the Internet. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the relationship of e-health literacy (eHL) with diabetes knowledge and attitudes toward internet health information in middle-aged patients with diabetes and to identify factors influencing patient eHL. Methods: This descriptive correlational study included 185 middle-aged patients with diabetes being followed-up with in the outpatient endocrinology department at a South Korean university hospital between 14 January and 29 February 2024. Data were collected using self-report structured questionnaires and were analyzed using IBM SPSS 27.0. Results: eHL was positively correlated with diabetes knowledge (r = 0.31, p < 0.001) and attitudes toward internet health information (r = 0.62, p < 0.001). Diabetes knowledge was also positively correlated with attitudes toward internet health information (r = 0.25, p < 0.001). Attitudes toward internet health information (β = 0.55, p = <0.001), diabetes knowledge (β = 0.13, p = 0.040), and drinking status (β = 0.12, p = 0.044) were significant variables affecting eHL. Conclusions: The most influencing factor in eHL in middle-aged patients with diabetes is the patient’s attitudes toward internet health information; diabetes knowledge was identified as a significant predictor. To improve eHL in middle-aged patients with diabetes, it is important to develop nursing intervention strategies to help promote diabetes knowledge and positive attitudes toward internet health information. Healthcare providers should continuously monitor patients to ensure they acquire and utilize correct information. Full article