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        <title>International Journal of Public Health | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/international-journal-of-public-health</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for International Journal of Public Health | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
        <generator>Frontiers Feed Generator,version:1</generator>
        <pubDate>2026-04-14T17:55:31.59+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609069</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609069</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Timely, Dignified, Efficient: Modernizing Verification of Death in Switzerland]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-14T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Young Researcher Editorial</category>
        <author>Sarah Maria Esther Jerjen</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608687</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608687</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Crossing Borders, Missing Data - Cancer Inequities in Displaced and Migrant Populations: A Scoping Review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Brandon M. Godinich</author><author>Jourdyn Horton</author><author>Madeline Rodriguez</author><author>Anika Patel</author><author>Jessica Chacon</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo review recent developments in cancer disparities affecting displaced and migrant populations in the U.S.–Mexico border region and identify barriers in public health and epidemiologic tracking.MethodsA structured scoping review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies and public health data published between 2010 and 2024. Sources included PubMed and governmental and binational public health reports. Inclusion criteria focused on border-specific, cancer-related evidence involving migrant and structurally vulnerable populations.ResultsCancer inequities were commonly associated with limited screening access, underinsurance, fragmented care, and binational surveillance gaps. Environmental and occupational exposures were identified as potential risk factors in border communities. Language barriers and mistrust of health systems limited engagement in preventive services, treatment continuity, and research participation.ConclusionCancer inequities among migrant populations in the U.S.–Mexico border region are closely linked to structural and policy barriers and gaps in cross-border epidemiologic infrastructure. Improved binational surveillance, culturally responsive outreach, and expanded access to screening and timely care may support more equitable cancer control.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608932</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608932</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Health Collaboration Development in China’s Urban Agglomerations: An Empirical Analysis of Four Major Regions]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-09T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Xiangfei Li</author><author>Wentao Zhu</author><author>Xumin Zhu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveThis study analyzed China’s four most politically significant and economically dynamic urban agglomerations—Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei (BTH), Yangtze River Delta (YRD), Pearl River Delta (PRD), and Chengdu-Chongqing (CY)—to explore their health development trends from 2005 to 2023 and compare their spatiotemporal characteristics in coordinated health development.MethodsWe employed an integrated index construction method and an improved urban gravity model to build urban health network models, investigating the coordinated relationships and features of health development in these agglomerations.ResultsOver 17 years, the four agglomerations showed both commonalities and unique differences in health coordination. The degree of coordinated development strengthened significantly, although it was notably influenced by major policies and public health events. Core cities exhibited substantial radiating effects on regional health coordination. PRD and YRD exhibited more pronounced growth in coordination intensity than BTH and CY. Distinct coordination patterns emerged: BTH displayed a unipolar radiation structure, YRD a polycentric network, PRD a core-periphery structure, and CY a dual-core, policy-driven coordination structure.ConclusionThe findings reveal the critical role of core cities and policy interventions in shaping regional health collaboration networks, providing insights into how to achieve more balanced health resource allocation and equity in urban agglomerations.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608730</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608730</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Exercise Interventions and Pregnancy-Related Back Pain: Evidence and Gaps From a Systematic Review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-09T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Jinchen Chen</author><author>Hongli Yu</author><author>Dagmara Damps</author><author>Anna Szumilewicz</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo review and synthesize existing evidence on exercise interventions of varying intensity for pregnancy-related back pain and to identify directions for future research.MethodsA systematic review of nine studies involving 1,438 participants was conducted. Interventions focused predominantly on low-to moderate-intensity exercise, and no study employed high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Exercise types included aerobic and resistance training as well as aquatic and stability exercises.ResultsMost studies demonstrated significant reductions in back pain, but methodological heterogeneity and limited sample sizes prevented meta-analytical synthesis. Randomized controlled trials showed moderate risk of bias due to challenges in blinding and randomization, while non-randomized trials had substantial limitations, including inadequate measurement validation and increased risk of bias.ConclusionExisting evidence supports the potential benefits of low-to moderate-intensity exercise for pregnancy-related back pain but remains methodologically weak. High-quality studies are needed to evaluate HIIT and other innovative strategies for managing pain and improving maternal health and wellbeing.Trial Registrationidentifier CRD42024578089.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609345</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609345</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Examining Secular Changes in Health Risk Behavior Profiles and Their Associations With Mental Distress During Adolescence]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Laura Bechtiger</author><author>Hans Thalathara</author><author>David Bürgin</author><author>Lukas Eggenberger</author><author>Clarissa Janousch</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesAdolescent mental distress has increased in recent decades. It is unclear whether this is associated with changes in health-risk behaviors.MethodsWe analyzed five waves (2002–2018) of the repeated cross-sectional Swiss Health Behavior in School-aged Children study (ages 11–15; N = 30,122). Latent Profile Analyses identified health-risk behavior profiles in each wave using five indicators (physical inactivity, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, smoking, alcohol use). Associations with sociodemographic variables and mental distress (internalizing and somatic symptoms, life satisfaction) were tested using multinomial and linear regressions, including profile*sex interactions.ResultsA consistent four-profile solution (low-risk; high alcohol use/slightly elevated substance use; moderate substance use; highest risk) fit best across waves. The low-risk profile was most prevalent and increased in later cohorts (2014–2018), while elevated-risk profiles declined. Older adolescents were more likely to belong to elevated-risk groups, which were associated with greater mental distress, especially in earlier cohorts. No significant sex interactions were found.ConclusionHealth-risk behavior profiles remained stable, but their associations with mental distress weakened over time. Prevention efforts should adapt to evolving adolescent contexts.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609671</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609671</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Harm Reduction Implications of Vaping Overtaking Smoking in Great Britain]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-04-02T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Commentary</category>
        <author>Yusuff Adebayo Adebisi</author><author>Riccardo Polosa</author><author>Jacob George</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609379</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609379</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Once HIV Knowledge Is Addressed: HIV-Stigma From the Perspective of Healthcare Professionals Working in HIV Facilities]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Clara Le Saux</author><author>Ingrid Gilles</author><author>David Jackson-Perry</author><author>Ellen Cart-Richter</author><author>Olivier Nawej Tshikung</author><author>Katharine E. A. Darling</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesStigmatising behaviour towards people with HIV (PWH) by healthcare professionals (HCPs) are often linked to poor HIV knowledge. This qualitative study explores how HIV-related stigma affects daily practice when HIV knowledge is high.MethodsHCPs from HIV care facilities in French-speaking Switzerland–administrative staff, nurses, and physicians–were invited to be interviewed by a team trained in qualitative methods using semi-structured guides. Interview transcripts were analysed with IRaMuTeQ software.ResultsTen interviews were completed before data saturation was reached. Three themes emerged: 1) clinic reception, 2) care provision for PWH, and 3) HIV knowledge. Administrative staff described challenges in maintaining patient anonymity. These included not greeting people by name and organising appointment schedules so people from shared social groups never meet at the clinic, thus avoiding HIV-status-sharing by inference. Physicians described underestimating stigma experienced by PWH and cited time constraints during consultations to address this. All groups felt that stigma persists due to limited HIV knowledge among the general public and non-specialist HCPs.ConclusionEven with good HIV knowledge, HIV-stigma impacts HCP practice and care provision. Efforts to protect anonymity may unintentionally reinforce rather than address HIV-stigma. While improving public and HCP HIV knowledge reduces enacted HIV-stigma, collaborative interventions between HCP sectors and with PWH could help to adapt HCP practices.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609306</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609306</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Moving From Representativeness Toward Transportability in an Era of Digital and Big Data]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-27T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Theory & Concept</category>
        <author>Arnaud Chiolero</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Evidence-based public health demands that study findings provide meaningful insights into improving the health of target populations, making representativeness a widely regarded hallmark of high-quality epidemiological research. However, big data and the digital health datademic are changing the way target and study populations are defined and how to ensure the external validity of study findings. What matters is assessing the degree of transportability of these findings—how well they inform about the target population. I review the gain of shifting the focus away from study representativeness and instead prioritizing the explicit assessment and reporting of transportability.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609432</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609432</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Urban-Rural Differences of Impact of the Accessibility of Community Older Adult Care Services on the Quality of Life of Older Adults]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-26T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Xiaodong Di</author><author>Lijian Wang</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThis study aimed to balance the resources for older adult care services in urban and rural areas, improve the quality of older adult care services, and enhance the quality of life for older adults.MethodsBased on the survey data of Shaanxi province and the ordinal logistic regression method, the paper analyzes the index system and measurement results of the accessibility of community older adult care services, and explores the urban-rural differences of impact of accessibility on the quality of life of older adults from the perspective of social support.ResultsThe accommodation of community older adult care service has a significant positive impact on the social relationship of urban older adults, while the five dimensions of the accessibility of older adult care services have no significant impact on the social relationship of rural older adults.ConclusionThe urban-rural differences of the impact are mainly reflected in the two aspects of accommodation and affordability. Government support and social organization support are the main reasons for the heterogeneity.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609337</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609337</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Structural Validation and Measurement Invariance of the HLS-Q12 Health Literacy Instrument in Finnish Adults: Comparing Traditional and Alignment Methods]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-26T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Jing Zhou</author><author>Hanna Rekola</author><author>Marjorita Sormunen</author><author>Tomi Mäki-Opas</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo examine the internal structure, internal consistency, and measurement invariance of the HLS-Q12 across sociodemographic groups in Finnish adults, using traditional multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) and alignment optimization.MethodsWe analyzed data from 7,077 Finnish adults drawn from a nationally representative national sample (n = 4,003) and a regional sample from North Savo (n = 3,074). Analyses included confirmatory factor analysis, MGCFA, and alignment optimization with Monte Carlo evaluation. Invariance was examined across gender, age, education, and study samples.ResultsReliability was high (α = 0.905 & ω = 0.896) and unidimensional structure (CFI = 0.951, TLI = 0.935, RMSEA = 0.058). MGCFA supported scalar invariance for gender, education, and study samples. Alignment optimization exhibited acceptable non-invariance (2.8%–25% of parameters), primarily in intercepts. Women and individuals with higher education showed higher health literacy; young adults exhibited higher levels than older cohorts.ConclusionThe Finnish HLS-Q12 supported subgroup comparisons for population monitoring, with largely adequate measurement invariance across key sociodemographic groups. The evidence pertains primarily to internal structure and measurement invariance. Further studies should examine additional validity evidence using external criteria.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609356</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609356</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Environmental Heat and Renal Health Across Cosmopolitan Populations: A Scoping Review Focused on Sex-Specific Vulnerability]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-25T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Sung-Hyo Seo</author><author>Suwan Go</author><author>Yoolwon Jeong</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesMuch of the existing evidence on heat–renal associations has focused on Mesoamerican male agricultural workers as the primary high-risk group, leaving sex-specific vulnerability in non-agricultural global populations underexplored. This study synthesized global evidence on heat-related renal outcomes in non-Mesoamerican, non-agricultural populations, with a focus on differences by sex.MethodsA scoping review was conducted following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Eligible studies reported sex-stratified renal outcomes and were conducted in non-Mesoamerican, non-agricultural populations. Data were extracted in duplicate and summarized descriptively.ResultsTwenty-one studies from ten countries met the inclusion criteria. Heat exposure was associated with increased risks of acute kidney injury, nephrolithiasis, and urinary tract infections. Men generally showed greater vulnerability to acute kidney injury and stone-related outcomes, whereas women more often demonstrated heat-related increases in urinary tract infections.ConclusionOur findings indicate that the risk of heat-related renal morbidity is not confined to the traditionally studied Mesoamerican male agricultural workforce but may also represent an emerging health concern in urban and metropolitan settings. These sex-specific patterns highlight the need for gender-responsive approaches in heat–renal research and public health planning.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608845</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608845</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Perinatal Mental Health Among Forced Migrant Women: A Scoping Review of Prevalence and Associated Factors]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-24T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Yamma Khalid Aria</author><author>Amanda Mason-Jones</author><author>Ada Keding</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo synthesise existing evidence on the prevalence of perinatal mental health disorders among forced migrant women and to identify factors influencing mental health outcomes in this population.MethodsA scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework. Electronic databases and grey literature sources were searched for studies published in English between 1951 and August 2022. Studies were included if they examined perinatal mental health among forced migrant women and clearly distinguished forced from voluntary migration.ResultsA total of 1,105 records were identified, of which 16 studies met the inclusion criteria (12 quantitative, three qualitative, and one mixed-methods study). Two main themes emerged: the prevalence of perinatal mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, and factors influencing mental health outcomes, such as social support, exposure to traumatic events, and stigma.ConclusionForced migrant women experience a high burden of perinatal mental health difficulties. Improved clarity in migration definitions and consistency in outcome measurement may strengthen future research and support more effective responses to perinatal mental health needs in this population.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609233</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609233</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Evaluation of Maternal Immunization Rates in Primary Care: A Retrospective Study From Selected Family Health Centers in İstanbul, Türkiye]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Saliha Büşra Aksu</author><author>Seda Özmen Sever</author><author>Yağmur Gökseven Arda</author><author>Güzin Zeren Öztürk</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo assess maternal vaccination coverage in primary care and to examine its association with completion of antenatal care visits and maternal characteristics in Türkiye.MethodsA retrospective record-based observational study including 996 pregnancies registered at Family Health Centers in Istanbul (2020–2022) was analyzed. Vaccination records for tetanus–diphtheria (Td), tetanus–diphtheria–acellular pertussis (Tdap), hepatitis B, influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) were retrieved from electronic health records and the National Vaccination Tracking System. Women attending all four scheduled antenatal care visits were classified as having complete antenatal care. Descriptive analyses, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression analysis were performed.ResultsOverall, 89.7% of pregnant women received at least one vaccine. Complete vaccination rates were 79.7% for Td/Tdap, while complete hepatitis B immunization status was observed in 9.8%, and complete COVID-19 vaccination in 10.7%. Two-thirds (66.4%) completed antenatal care visits. Complete antenatal care was independently associated with higher odds of vaccination during pregnancy (aOR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.91–4.44), having a lifetime immunization record (aOR = 3.12, 95% CI: 1.74–5.61) and complete Td/Tdap vaccination (aOR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.57–2.98).ConclusionMaternal vaccination coverage in Türkiye remains below international targets except for Td/Tdap. Greater continuity of structured antenatal care and continuity of care visits may be associated with higher maternal vaccination uptake. In addition integrating all recommended maternal vaccines into national protocols may support improvements in immunization coverage.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609017</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609017</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Dual Chain-Mediation of GenAI Chatbots on Loneliness: Perceived Misinformation Exposure and User Trust via Negative Emotions]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Yangyang Wang</author><author>Chang Xu</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesMounting concerns over “AI psychosis” highlight the need to examine psychological risks of GenAI chatbots. Loneliness is a critical outcome of prolonged AI use, often mediated by distorted emotional and cognitive processes. This study tests how GenAI chatbots use is associated with negative emotions, which in turn heighten loneliness through two concurrent mechanisms.MethodsWe surveyed 516 adults online and applied PLS-SEM with bootstrapped indirect effects and comparative pathway analysis.ResultsGenAI chatbots use significantly predicted perceived misinformation exposure (β = 0.318, 95% CI [0.231, 0.409]) and user trust (β = 0.383, 95% CI [0.294, 0.473]). Both pathways increased loneliness via negative emotions, with the information-quality pathway (β = 0.062, 95% CI [0.036, 0.099]) stronger than the emotional-trust pathway (β = 0.023, 95% CI [0.009, 0.040]); overall chain effects did not differ.ConclusionGenAI chatbots use contributes to loneliness through dual cognitive and emotional mediations. Given emerging AI psychosis risks, interventions should strengthen misinformation recognition and address trust-related vulnerabilities.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609410</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1609410</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Moderate Wine Consumption, Defined by the Mediterranean Diet, Is Associated With Delayed Biological Aging in Men From the Moli-sani Study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-16T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Simona Esposito</author><author>Augusto Di Castelnuovo</author><author>Simona Costanzo</author><author>Alessandro Gialluisi</author><author>Antonietta Pepe</author><author>Emilia Ruggiero</author><author>Amalia De Curtis</author><author>Sara Magnacca</author><author>Mariarosaria Persichillo</author><author>Francesc Casanovas-Garriga</author><author>Chiara Cerletti</author><author>Maria Benedetta Donati</author><author>Giovanni de Gaetano</author><author>Licia Iacoviello</author><author>Marialaura Bonaccio</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo investigate the association between wine consumption and biological aging in the Moli-sani Study.MethodsDietary data were assessed using a 188-item FFQ. Participants (n = 22,495) were classified as abstainers, former drinkers, moderate drinkers according to national guidelines (≤250 mL/d men; ≤125 mL/d women) or Mediterranean Diet (MD) (125–500 mL/d men; 62.5–250 mL/d women), and heavy drinkers (>500 mL/d men; >250 mL/d women). Biological age (BA) was estimated with a deep neural network using 36 circulating biomarkers, and Δage (BA–chronological age) served as an index of biological aging.ResultsIn men, wine consumption, at doses defined moderate by a current MD Score, was associated with slower biological aging (Δage β = −0.39; 95%CI: −0.78, −0.01 vs. abstainers). Dose–response analyses showed a J-shaped curve, with the slowest Δage at ∼170 mL/d (Δage = −0.34 years; 95%CI: −0.66, −0.03). Overall ethanol intake, including all alcoholic beverages consumed, was neutral at moderate levels and associated with faster biological aging at higher doses.ConclusionModerate wine consumption, but not overall ethanol intake, may contribute to slower biological aging in men.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2025.1608121</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2025.1608121</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Towards Herpes Zoster and Vaccination in Japan Using the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior Model: a Mixed-Methods Study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-13T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Yuki Suzaki</author><author>Shinichi Imafuku</author><author>Jing Chen</author><author>Jennifer Si</author><author>Viola Xiang</author><author>Vince Grillo</author><author>Takahiko Imai</author><author>Jerusha Naidoo</author><author>Sumitra Shantakumar</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards herpes zoster (HZ) and HZ vaccination in Japan.MethodsThis mixed-methods study was conducted across two phases. In Phase 1, concept elicitation interviews were conducted with the public (N = 24) and physicians (N = 6), and the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behavior model of behavioral change was used to identify themes surrounding KAP. These themes were validated in Phase 2 via self-administered quantitative surveys conducted with a larger group of respondents (public: N = 600; physicians: N = 60).ResultsDespite high awareness of HZ (92.9%–94.0%) and HZ vaccination (76.0%–80.4%) among the public, knowledge about HZ, HZ vaccination rates (13.1%–32.0%), and intention to vaccinate (12.6%–18.2% among non-HZ-vaccinated respondents) were low. Public respondents were likely to vaccinate against HZ upon physician recommendation (78.7%–84.0%), but physician recommendation was limited by barriers including perceived low patient willingness (51.7%) and vaccine cost (51.7%). Various forms of government support could encourage patient-physician discussions regarding HZ and aid HZ vaccination uptake among the public (30.0%–53.3%).ConclusionThese findings may inform public health strategies to overcome barriers to HZ vaccine uptake in Japan.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608765</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608765</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Global Burden of Type 2 Diabetes Attributable to Behavioral Risks: Insights and Projections to 2050 Based on the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Guomiao Zhang</author><author>Huiqin Mei</author><author>Qichao Sheng</author><author>Yang Chen</author><author>Xinlv Zhang</author><author>Anthony Diwon</author><author>Hui Wang</author><author>Yuxin Chen</author><author>Ziyi Wang</author><author>Xiaoyu Zhang</author><author>Qingyang Mao</author><author>Dapeng Li</author><author>Chao Zheng</author><author>Guangyun Mao</author><author>Fang Shi</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThis study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the burden of Type 2 diabetes (T2D) attributable to behavioral risks.MethodsUtilizing the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 data for secondary modeling, we analyzed the burden of T2D attributable to behavioral risks, stratified by age, gender, risk factors, and regions. A Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model projected burden trajectories from 2022 to 2050 under the continuation of historical trends.ResultsFrom 1990 to 2021, global deaths and DALYs of T2D attributable to behavioral risks increased by 133.87% and 187.68%. The greatest rises in ASMR and ASDR occurred in Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Southern Sub-Saharan Africa. Dietary risks remained the primary contributor, whereas the T2D burden attributable to high alcohol use exhibited the steepest increase from 1990 to 2021. The global ASMR and ASDR increased exponentially with age and were consistently higher in males. Projections from the BAPC model indicate that ASDR is expected to continue increasing through 2050.ConclusionT2D burden attributable to behavioral risks is increasing rapidly, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and public health education.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608693</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608693</link>
        <title><![CDATA[What Do We Know About Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy in Poland in the Period 2016–2021 Based on Data From the Public Health System?]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Małgorzata Niemiec</author><author>Maria Stec</author><author>Jacek Grzybowski</author><author>Urszula Cegłowska</author><author>Anna Wiśniewska</author><author>Kacper Hałgas</author><author>Kinga Czepczor</author><author>Maciej Podolski</author><author>Bartosz Gruchlik</author><author>Gabriela Orzeł-Łomozik</author><author>Daniel Cieśla</author><author>Mariusz Gąsior</author><author>Tomasz Hryniewiecki</author><author>Przemysław Leszek</author><author>Alida L. P. Caforio</author><author>Katarzyna Mizia-Stec</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to comprehensively characterize the population of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) patients in Poland in 2016–2021, including the analysis of annual incidence, prevalence, comorbidities, and therapeutic paths.MethodsA population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Polish National Health Fund database. The analysis included a registered annual incidence and prevalence rates, mortality, prognosis, and data on patients pathways in the healthcare system.ResultsIn 2016, the registered annual incidence of HCM diagnosis in Poland was 1,494 cases (3.89/100,000), decreasing to 808 cases (2.11/100,000) in 2021. Despite the decline in new diagnoses, the registered prevalence of HCM increased from 13,271 cases (34.53/100,000) in 2016 to 13,880 cases (36.23/100,000) in 2021, indicating improved patient survival. Annual mortality rose from 824 deaths (2.14/100,000) in 2016 to 1,022 deaths (2.67/100,000) in 2021, with the highest mortality observed in older adults (60+ years).ConclusionThe study highlights significant underdiagnosis of HCM in Poland. Mortality in HCM population remains high, underscoring the need for improvement in earlier detection and comprehensive care strategies in Polish healthcare system.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608308</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608308</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Mental Health and Resilience in Eritrean and Somali Refugees in Switzerland: A Cross-Sectional Study]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Jennifer Giovanoli Evack</author><author>Charles Abongomera</author><author>James Okuma</author><author>Johanna Kurscheid</author><author>Yeabio Melake</author><author>Afona Chernet</author><author>Tesfalem Ghebreghiorghis</author><author>Anna Verjans</author><author>Fiona Vanobberghen</author><author>George Abongomera</author><author>Jan Fehr</author><author>Naser Morina</author><author>Daniel H. Paris</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesIn this study, we determined the frequency of clinically relevant mental health conditions among Eritrean and Somali refugees in Basel and Zurich, Switzerland and assessed their levels of resilience.MethodsA cross-sectional study among refugees aged ≥16 years involved validated questionnaires, screening for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), somatic disorders, anxiety, depression, and assessments of alcohol use and resilience.ResultsThe 102 participants were young (median age 34 years), Eritrean (N = 88; 86%), males (N = 62), with long periods of staying in Switzerland (median 8.6 years). Almost three-quarters (N = 69/99; 70%) had high resilience scores (median 86). We found low frequencies of moderate or severe symptoms of PTSD (7%), anxiety (0%) and depression (1%). However, symptoms for somatic disorders (18%) and harmful levels of alcohol use (12%) were more common.ConclusionWhile the overall levels of resilience are impressively high, a large proportion of participants exhibited symptoms of somatic disorders and harmful levels of alcohol use - well beyond the early adaptation phase. This highlights the need for long-term mental healthcare beyond the time of arrival to ensure their wellbeing.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608475</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/ijph.2026.1608475</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Health and Socio-Economic Impacts of Climate-Related Displacement in Bangladesh’s Chars: Causal Evidence From a Household Survey]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-03-11T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Original Article</category>
        <author>Juan A. de Castro</author><author>Laurentiu Guinea</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo assess health and socio-economic impacts of climate-related displacement in North-East Bangladesh chars and examine links between non-governmental services, disease burden and migration.MethodsWe analysed a household survey of 480 women aged 15–55 from nine intervention and three comparison chars, collected between March and June 2022. Using a quasi-experimental framework and estimators of the average treatment effect, we compared displaced and non-displaced households and households in chars with and without Friendship health and education services. We constructed indices of disease burden, migration and socio-economic conditions, each scaled 0–100.ResultsDisplaced households had lower disease burden scores than non-displaced households after adjusting for socio-economic covariates. This pattern is consistent with improved access to services among some displaced groups, but may also reflect reporting differences and selection into the observed displaced population. Migration intensity was higher in chars where Friendship operates than in comparison chars, suggesting programme placement in areas with stronger migration pressures.ConclusionClimate-related displacement interacts with service access, vulnerability and selection in complex ways; targeted interventions can reduce disease burden but do not necessarily lower migration pressures.]]></description>
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