Search Results (255)

Coyaima is a town in the department of Tolima, Colombia, that was prioritized in a pilot program under Colombia’s National Plan for the Control of the Taeniasis/Cysticercosis Complex, focusing on this neglected health issue. The project engaged local indigenous communities, promoting education and outreach within the One Health framework. The study included 444 randomly selected volunteers, who filled a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey on the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex. The baseline study found no Taenia spp. eggs via microscopy on 383 stool samples examined, and no T. solium DNA was detected on human stool and soil samples by Copro-qPCR. However, seroprevalence was 8.5% for human cysticercosis and 14% for porcine cysticercosis, as detected by in-house ELISA testing for T. solium. Moreover, 57.9% of participants who provided a stool sample were positive for at least one parasite. Following the sampling and characterization activities, local health workers implemented mass treatment with Niclosamide, based on evidence of ongoing transmission, high porcine seroprevalence, poor basic sanitation, and the presence of free-roaming pigs reported in the KAP survey. These findings provide scientific evidence to apply national public health policies for controlling taeniasis/cysticercosis complex in Coyaima. Full article

Extreme heat poses growing health risks in tropical regions, yet public perception of this threat remains understudied in the Caribbean. This study examines how residents in Puerto Rico perceived heat-related health risks and how these perceptions relate to vulnerability and protective behaviors during the extreme heat events of the summer of 2020. We conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey of 500 adults across metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas of Puerto Rico, using stratified probability sampling. The questionnaire assessed heat risk perception, sociodemographic characteristics, health status, prior heat exposure, and heat-related behaviors. While most participants expressed concern about climate change and high temperatures, fewer than half perceived heat as a high level of personal health risk. Higher levels of risk perception were significantly associated with being male, aged 50–64, unemployed, and in fair health, having multiple chronic conditions, and prior experience with heat-related symptoms. Those with symptoms were nearly five times more likely to report high levels of risk perception (OR = 4.94, 95% CI: 2.93–8.34). In contrast, older adults (65+), despite their higher level of vulnerability, reported lower levels of risk perception and fewer symptoms. Nighttime heat exposure was widespread and strongly associated with heat-related symptoms. Common coping strategies included the use of fans and air conditioning, though economic constraints and infrastructure instability limited access. The findings highlight the disparity between actual and perceived vulnerability, particularly among older adults. Public health strategies should focus on risk communication tailored to vulnerable groups and address barriers to heat adaptation. Strengthening heat resilience in Puerto Rico requires improved infrastructure, equitable access to cooling, and targeted outreach. Full article

The global elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been prioritized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a key public health target, with a deadline set for 2030. This initiative aims to significantly reduce both new infection rates and HCV-associated mortality. A major breakthrough in achieving this goal has been the development of direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs), which offer cure rates exceeding 95%, along with excellent safety and tolerability. Nevertheless, transmission via parenteral routes continues to be the dominant pathway, particularly among high-risk groups, such as individuals who inject drugs, incarcerated populations, those exposed to unsafe medical practices, and healthcare professionals. Identifying, monitoring, and delivering tailored interventions to these groups is crucial to interrupt ongoing transmission and to reduce the burden of chronic liver disease. On a global scale, several nations have demonstrated measurable progress toward HCV elimination, with some nearing the targets set by WHO. These achievements have largely resulted from context-adapted policies that enhanced diagnostic and therapeutic access while emphasizing outreach to vulnerable communities. This review synthesizes current advancements in HCV prevention and control and proposes strategic frameworks to expedite global elimination efforts. Full article

Background: Immunization is a highly effective intervention for controlling over 20 life-threatening infectious diseases, significantly reducing both morbidity and mortality rates. One notable achievement in vaccination efforts was the global eradication of smallpox, which the World Health Assembly declared on 8 May 1980. Additionally, there has been a remarkable 99.9% reduction in wild poliovirus cases since 1988, decreasing from more than 350,000 cases that year to just 30 cases in 2022. Objectives: The objective of this review was to assess the effects of various interventions designed to increase vaccination uptake among adults. Search Methods: A thorough search was conducted in the CENTRAL, Embase Ovid, Medline Ovid, PubMed, Web of Science, and Global Index Medicus databases for primary studies. This search was conducted in August 2021 and updated in November 2024. Selection Criteria: Randomized trials were eligible for inclusion in this review, regardless of publication status or language. Data Analysis: Two authors independently screened the search outputs to select potentially eligible studies. Risk ratios (RR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for each randomized controlled trial (RCT). A meta-analysis was conducted using a random-effects model, and the quality of the evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Main Results: A total of 35 randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review, with the majority conducted in the United States. The interventions targeted adults aged 18 and older who were eligible for vaccination, involving a total of 403,709 participants. The overall pooled results for interventions aimed at increasing influenza vaccination showed a risk ratio of 1.41 (95% CI: 1.15, 1.73). Most studies focused on influenza vaccination (18 studies), while the remaining studies examined various other vaccines, including those for hepatitis A, COVID-19, hepatitis B, pneumococcal disease, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap), herpes zoster, and human papillomavirus (HPV). The results indicate that letter reminders were slightly effective in increasing influenza vaccination uptake compared to the control group (RR: 1.75, 95% CI: 0.97, 1.16; 6 studies; 161,495 participants; low-certainty evidence). Additionally, participants who received education interventions showed increased levels of influenza vaccination uptake compared to those in the control group (RR: 1.88, 95% CI: 0.61, 5.76; 3 studies; 1318 participants; low-certainty evidence). Furthermore, tracking and outreach interventions also led to an increase in influenza vaccination uptake (RR: 1.87, 95% CI: 0.78, 4.46; 2 studies; 33,752 participants; low-certainty evidence). Conclusions: Letter reminders and educational interventions targeted at recipients are effective in increasing vaccination uptake compared to control groups. Full article

Geoethics emphasizes responsible human interaction with the Earth, promoting ethical practices in the geosciences to ensure sustainability for current and future generations. UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps) are designated areas that support sustainable development by integrating geoconservation, geoeducation, and community engagement, thereby raising awareness of geological heritage. This quantitative study employed an online questionnaire (n = 798) to assess geoethical awareness among residents of all nine Hellenic UGGps, with the aim of profiling environmental engagement and perceptions. The results indicate a generally high level of geoethical awareness, with Sitia UGGp exhibiting the highest average mean score (M⁻ = 8.98, SD⁻ = 1.34), reflecting strong community support and effective outreach efforts. In contrast, Lavreotiki UGGp (M⁻ = 8.48, SD⁻ = 1.15) and Psiloritis UGGp (M⁻ = 8.33, SD⁻ = 1.36) scored lower in areas such as community engagement and geotourism, suggesting opportunities for targeted improvement. Regional differences suggest that management, visibility, and local context significantly influence public perceptions. Cluster analysis identified four respondent profiles: (a) highly engaged environmental stewards (28.7%), (b) supportive but selective advocates (40.5%), (c) moderately indifferent participants (26.9%), and (d) disengaged or critical respondents (3.9%). Demographic factors such as age, residence, prior visits to Hellenic UGGps, and education significantly differentiated these groups. Mapping geoethical awareness provides a valuable tool for assessing societal benefits and enhancing the governance of UGGps. Overall, the findings underscore the need to shift from an anthropocentric to a more geocentric worldview that prioritizes the well-being of both humanity and Earth’s systems. Full article

The UI GreenMetric World University Ranking has become a widely adopted instrument for benchmarking institutional sustainability performance; nevertheless, empirically grounded evidence from universities in diverse regional contexts remains scarce. This study undertakes a rigorous appraisal of the extent to which Mahasarakham University (MSU) has institutionalized the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) within its pedagogical offerings, research portfolio, community outreach, and governance arrangements during the 2021–2024 strategic cycle. Employing a mixed-methods design and guided by the 2024 UI GreenMetric Education and Research indicators, this investigation analyzed institutional datasets pertaining to curriculum provision, ring-fenced research funding, 574 peer-reviewed sustainability publications, student-led community initiatives, and supporting governance mechanisms; the analysis was interpreted through a Plan–Do–Check–Act management lens. The number of sustainability-oriented academic programs expanded from 49 to 58. Student participation in community service activities strongly recovered following the COVID-19 pandemic, and MSU’s GreenMetric score increased from 7575 to 8475, thereby elevating the institution to the 100th position globally. These gains were facilitated by strategic SDG-aligned investment, cross-sector collaboration, and the consolidation of international partnerships anchored in Thailand’s Isaan region. The MSU case provides a transferable model for universities—particularly those operating in resource-constrained contexts—endeavoring to align institutional development with the SDGs and internationally recognized quality benchmarks. The findings substantiate the capacity of transformative education and applied research to engender enduring societal and environmental benefits. Full article

The last decade has seen a transformative advancement in computational technologies, enabling the precise creation, evaluation, visualization, and reproduction of high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) models of archaeological sites and artefacts. With the advent of 3D printing, both small- and large-scale objects can now be reproduced with remarkable accuracy and at customizable scales. Artefacts composed of organic materials—such as wood—are inherently susceptible to biological degradation and thus require extensive, long-term conservation employing costly methodologies. These procedures often raise environmental concerns and lead to irreversible alterations in the wood’s chemical composition, dimensional properties, and the intangible essence of the original artefact. In the context of public education and the dissemination of knowledge about historical technologies and objects, 3D replicas can effectively fulfill the same purpose as original artefacts, without compromising interpretative value or cultural significance. Furthermore, the digital data embedded in 3D surface and object models provides a wealth of supplementary information that cannot be captured, preserved, or documented through conventional techniques. Waterlogged wooden objects can now be thoroughly documented in 3D, enabling ongoing, non-invasive scientific analysis. Given these capabilities, it is imperative to revisit the philosophical and ethical foundations of preserving waterlogged wood and to adopt innovative strategies for the conservation and presentation of wooden artefacts. These new paradigms can serve educational, research, and outreach purposes—core functions of contemporary museums. Full article

Background: Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health challenge, particularly in resource-limited settings. A hub-and-spoke model, decentralising expertise and distributing resources to peripheral facilities, has been proposed as a strategy to enhance the antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) capacity in low- and middle-income countries. Aim: This study sought to understand healthcare professionals’ experiences of a hub-and-spoke AMS model in the Volta Region of Ghana and its influence on clinical practice, leadership, and collaborative endeavours to address AMR. Methods: A qualitative descriptive design was adopted. In-depth interviews were conducted with 11 healthcare professionals who participated in the AMS program. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes related to the knowledge and skills that were gained, clinical and leadership practice changes, capacity building, and challenges. Results: Participants reported an increased awareness of AMR, particularly regarding the scale and clinical implications of antimicrobial misuse. The clinical practice improvements included more judicious prescribing and enhanced adherence to infection prevention and control measures. Many respondents highlighted stronger leadership skills and a commitment to capacity building through AMS committees, multidisciplinary collaboration, and cross-organisational knowledge exchange. Despite resource constraints and logistical hurdles, participants expressed optimism, citing data-driven approaches such as point prevalence surveys to track progress and inform policy. Engagement with hospital management and public outreach were viewed as essential to sustaining AMS efforts and curbing over-the-counter antibiotic misuse. Conclusions: The hub-and-spoke model caused observable improvements in AMS knowledge, clinical practice, and leadership capacity among healthcare professionals in Ghana. While challenges remain, particularly in securing sustainable resources and shifting community behaviours, these findings underscore the potential of network-based programs to catalyse systemic changes in tackling AMR. Future research should explore long-term outcomes and strategies for embedding AMS practices more deeply within healthcare systems and communities. Full article

Background: The national guidelines, informed by evidence from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), define the criteria for genetic testing of BRCA1/2 and other genes associated with Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) and Lynch Syndrome (LS). When a germline pathogenic variant (PV) is identified in an index case, clinical recommendations advise informing at-risk relatives about the availability of predictive genetic testing, as early identification of carriers allows for timely implementation of preventive measures. Methods: This retrospective observational study examined data collected between 2017 and 2024 at the Medical Genetics Unit of the “Renato Dulbecco” University Hospital in Catanzaro, Italy. The analysis focused on trends in the identification of individuals carrying PVs in cancer predisposition genes (CPGs) and the subsequent uptake of cascade genetic testing (CGT) among their family members. Results: Over the study period, from 116 probands were performed 257 CGTs on 251 relatives. A notable reduction of approximately ten years in median age was observed, 39% were found to carry familial mutation and were referred to personalized cancer prevention programs. Among these, 62% accessed Oncological Genetic Counselling (CGO) within one year of the proband’s diagnosis, suggesting effective communication and outreach. Conclusions: The findings highlight the critical role of effective CGO and intrafamilial communication in hereditary cancer prevention. The identification of PVs, followed by timely CGTs and implementation of preventive strategies, significantly contributes to early cancer risk management. Periodic monitoring of CGT uptake and outcome trends, as demonstrated in this study, is essential to refine and optimize genetic services and public health strategies. Full article

Soil literacy, defined as the combination of attitudes, behaviours, and competencies necessary to make informed decisions that promote soil health, is increasingly recognised as a crucial element for sustainable development. This article presents the outcomes of the Soil Literacy Think Tank established under the Soils for Europe (SOLO) project, which aims to identify research and innovation knowledge gaps to strengthen soil literacy in Europe. Drawing on literature reviews, stakeholder engagement, and interdisciplinary dialogue, the paper highlights 18 prioritised knowledge gaps across different topics. These include a lack of integrated pedagogical strategies, limited outreach to specific social groups, and underdeveloped communication methods linking soil knowledge to stewardship actions. The article proposes adaptive and inclusive approaches to soil education that respect multiple knowledge systems and values and emphasises the importance of embedding soil literacy into sustainability agendas and governance processes. By addressing these challenges, the paper contributes to broader efforts supporting the EU Soil Mission and the goals of World Soil Day by promoting public awareness, citizen engagement, and responsible soil care. Full article

Introduction: Lung cancer (LC) is the leading cause of cancer mortality and is responsible for 1.8 million deaths annually. The early identification of risk factors, particularly smoking, is essential in improving outcomes. Public health campaigns play a crucial role in raising awareness, but misinformation and resource limitations hinder their effectiveness. This study evaluates the impact of a public awareness campaign on Saudi citizens’ understanding of lung cancer (LC) risks and screening. Methods: An interventional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using pre- and post-campaign self-administered surveys. A total of 1,426 participants aged 18 or older were surveyed either before or after the campaign. A matching approach was used to control for confounding variables. Each participant may receive a maximum total score of 14 for their knowledge of lung cancer and a maximum total score of 10 for their awareness of lung cancer screening. Results: A total of 713 participants were surveyed pre-campaign, and 859 post-campaign). After matching, 308 participants remained for the analysis, with no significant demographic differences between those who were surveyed before and after the campaign. Post-campaign, awareness was significantly improved, which is reflected in an increase in accurate responses to key statements. The median knowledge scores increased from 11.0 to 23.0, indicating a substantial increase in understanding. Conclusions: The campaign effectively enhanced the awareness of LC risk factors and screening. However, new misconceptions regarding universal screening emerged, emphasizing the need for clear messaging. Future initiatives should address socioeconomic and gender disparities, promote collaborative decision-making, and implement long-term educational strategies. These findings align with previous research and highlight areas for improvement in public health outreach. Full article

This study investigates participation patterns in publicly accessible educational events organized by a college policy and research center. These programs, which addressed topics related to energy and sustainability, were conducted both online and in person and featured expert speakers from government, business, and nonprofit sectors. By analyzing registration data from over 1400 participants across multiple events, the study identifies key trends in attendance, including sector affiliation, repeat attendance, and the impact of regional relevance on program popularity. The findings indicate that most participants were private citizens or affiliated with the business sector, with lower attendance rates from academia, government, and nonprofit sectors. Furthermore, the study underscores the popularity of regionally pertinent topics and the challenges in attracting participants to more specialized topics. The research highlights the importance of providing low-barrier, accessible adult environmental education (AEE) opportunities. It suggests that colleges and universities, with organizational capabilities and access to expert speakers, are uniquely positioned to offer these programs. This study contributes to the limited quantitative research on AEE, addressing a gap in understanding participation patterns and engagement within the field. Full article

This study evaluated the prevalence of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in milk marketed in Tirana, Albania, along with dietary exposure and associated potential health risks. The World Health Organization has categorized Albania in cluster G02 of GEMS/FOOD, highlighting that milk is a staple in the Albanian diet, which points to a possible health risk. A total of 141 milk samples, comprising both Ultra-High Temperature (UHT) and pasteurized types, were collected from local markets in Tirana and analyzed from March 2023 to February 2024. The determination of AFM1 levels was carried out using High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography with a Fluorescence Detector (HPLC-FLD), a precise and dependable technique for identifying and measuring aflatoxins in food products. Aflatoxin M1 was found in 62.4% of the milk samples, with 26.2% surpassing the European Union’s maximum residue levels (MRL). The mean AFM1 concentrations were 58.8 ± 95.8 ng/kg, reaching a maximum level of 399.0 ng/kg. The Estimated Daily Intake (EDI) for various groups—toddlers, children, adolescents, and adults—was determined to be 2.161, 1.297, 0.519, and 0.370 ng/kg of body weight per day, respectively. The Hazard Index (HI), derived from the AFM1 exposure for four population groups, was 10.81 (toddlers), 6.48 (children), 2.59 (adolescents), and 1.85 (adults). The Margin of Exposure (MoE) was 1.85, 3.08, 7.71, and 10.81, respectively. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) per 100,000 people in the four groups was 0.034, 0.021, 0.008, and 0.006, respectively. The study is the first comprehensive evaluation of AFM1 prevalence, highlighting the potential risks associated with milk consumption, as milk is a dietary staple in Albanian households. It addresses a critical public health concern regarding aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination in milk consumed in Tirana, Albania, by highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring, regulatory measures, and educational outreach to enhance food safety and safeguard public health in Albania, as well as in other regions facing similar concerns. Full article

Background: Food insecurity and poor diet quality disproportionately affect U.S. children from low-income households, with summer school closures exacerbating risks. Federally funded programs like the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) and SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) aim to address these challenges, yet evidence of their post-pandemic dietary impact remains limited. Objectives: This study examines the relationship between policy innovations, summer meal participation, food insecurity, and diet quality among children from low-income households in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Methods: A cross-sectional design analyzed data from 158 households in Prince George’s County Public Schools across two waves (early fall 2022 and 2023). Validated tools (USDA’s Six-Item Short Form and Dietary Screener Questionnaire) assessed food security and diet quality. Sociodemographic factors, program participation, and dietary deviations from the 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression identified determinants of poor diet quality (≥2 guideline deviations), adjusting for ethnicity, age, and housing stability. Results: Only 32.28% of eligible households participated in summer meal programs, with non-participation driven by lack of awareness (53.68%) and transportation barriers (11.58%). Significant dietary gaps included inadequate whole grain intake (0.8 vs. 3.0 servings/day) and excessive added sugars (14% of daily calories). Summer meal participation was associated with reduced odds of poor diet quality (OR = 0.23, p = 0.030), while older age (OR = 52.97, p < 0.001) and very low food security (OR = 8.42, p = 0.036) increased risk. Hispanic ethnicity had lower odds (OR = 0.17, p = 0.019) despite higher baseline food insecurity. Conclusions: Summer meal participation was associated with improved dietary outcomes but faced systemic participation barriers. Findings support policy reforms, such as multilingual outreach and mobile meal distribution, to address identified gaps. Full article

Since 2005, the ‘Soil of the Year’ campaign has aimed to highlight the ecological functions and societal relevance of soils in Germany. This article analyses the campaign’s concept, evolution and outreach strategies. It evaluates its role as a tool for environmental education, public engagement and policy communication. Over two decades, the initiative has established itself as a key platform connecting science, policy and society. The annual designation of a specific soil type enables focused communication, enhances public understanding and encourages sustainable soil management. The article concludes by identifying success factors for the long-term effectiveness of the campaign and outlines future opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and digital innovation. In addition, the findings provide actionable recommendations for similar soil awareness campaigns in other countries. Full article