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        <title>Public Health Reviews | New and Recent Articles</title>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/public-health-reviews</link>
        <description>RSS Feed for Public Health Reviews | New and Recent Articles</description>
        <language>en-us</language>
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        <pubDate>2026-08-13T23:29:21.24+00:00</pubDate>
        <ttl>60</ttl>
        <item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1610147</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1610147</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Closing the evidence gap: why childhood cancer research must include fathers]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-12T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Commentary</category>
        <author>Peter Francis Raguindin</author><author>André Oscar von Bueren</author><author>Gisela Michel</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609191</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609191</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Effectiveness and economic impact of interventions targeting healthcare personnel: a systematic review of return on investment]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Pierluigi Catalfo</author><author>Chiara Cantarella</author><author>Daniele Virgillito</author><author>Helena C. Maltezou</author><author>Caterina Ledda</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo evaluate and critically interpret economic evidence on workplace interventions targeting healthcare personnel, distinguishing return on investment from related economic evaluation approaches and grouping interventions by underlying mechanisms.MethodsPubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for peer-reviewed studies published from 2006 to 2024. Eligible empirical studies reported return on investment, benefit-cost ratios, net savings, cost-effectiveness metrics, societal returns, or comparable monetized outcomes for workplace interventions involving healthcare workers. Methodological quality was assessed using CHEERS and ECOBIAS.ResultsTwenty-eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Most reported positive or potentially favorable economic returns, particularly for preventive health measures, workplace mental health and disability-management programs, and educational or human-capital initiatives. Findings were highly context-dependent. Some interventions produced modest, neutral, or unfavorable returns, while the highest estimates often came from model-based analyses or broad societal extrapolations. Comparability was limited by differences in perspective, time horizon, monetization assumptions, health-system structure, labor costs, and implementation.ConclusionEvidence supports workplace interventions as part of health workforce strategies, but return on investment should not be used as a stand-alone decision criterion. Future evaluations require standardized methods, transparent assumptions, and explicit perspectives and time horizons.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609947</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609947</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Towards a competency framework for wellbeing economy in public health: a scoping review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-05T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Pablo Rodríguez-Feria</author><author>Katarzyna Czabanowska</author><author>Mariana Dyakova</author><author>Natalia Giraldo-Noack</author><author>Timo Clemens</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveThis scoping review aims to develop a competency framework, based on the four wellbeing economy capitals, to support education, training and up-skilling of public health professionals and practitioners.MethodsThe JBI methodological guidance and the PRISMA Extension for scoping reviews were used. We searched Medline via PubMed, EMBASE via Ovid, Global Health via EBSCOHost, and ERIC via EBSCOHost. Data extraction focused on four capitals and was mapped against four actions of wellbeing economy.ResultsThe proposed Competency Framework organizes 31 competencies within five domains including: Ethics and professionalism, Determinants of health and wellbeing, Digital transformation and data literacy, Policy, politics and governance, and Building capacity for sustainable wellbeing economy.ConclusionDeveloping a competency framework for wellbeing economy in public health is an important step towards defining the field, providing the basis for training and performance assessment, as well as public health policy and capacity development. It can serve as an actionable tool showing how public health stakeholders and leaders can best improve the wellbeing of their communities and citizens.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609387</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609387</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Organizational leadership competencies for effective and equitable public health governance in Canada]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Policy Brief</category>
        <author>Garima Talwar Kapoor</author><author>Shinjini Mondal</author><author>Kian Rego</author><author>Madelyn Law</author><author>Erica Di Ruggiero</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundOrganizational-level leadership competencies are critical for the development and governance of resilient public health systems that can endure and thrive in an ever-evolving economic, social, and political context.AnalysisA mixed-methods research study identified 20 organizational leadership competencies for public health in Canada, across eight domains, including: systems thinking (e.g., leaders are able to adapt, are nimble, and innovate), policy development/implementation/evaluation (e.g., leaders engage multiple actors in policy) and resource stewardship (e.g., leaders develop a resource allocation strategy that balances efficiency and equity).Policy OptionsRecommendation: Governments across Canada should undertake legislative and regulatory efforts to implement organizational-level leadership competencies in public health organizations to strengthen system-level governance. Status quo: Without a systemic approach, some organizations will continue to undertake actions that strengthen their governance, while others will not. This could exacerbate inequities in population health outcomes and organizational performance.ConclusionStrengthening organizational leadership competencies is critical for the effective and equitable governance of public health organizations in Canada. Failure to do so could undermine their resilience in a resource-constrained and changing context.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609007</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609007</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Vaccination in Islamic countries: a narrative review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-08-04T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Antonia-Olivia Roberts</author><author>Shahid Jameel</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Vaccination is a key public health intervention, and Muslims who comprise a quarter of the world’s population, have shown mixed responses to it. Previous research has addressed Islamic perspectives on vaccination but understanding its efficacy from secular and religious points of view across Islamic countries is limited. This narrative review utilised database search (Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, SSRN, and Web of Science) followed by curation based on expert knowledge. It offers theological and technological insights, and the potential impacts of climate change on vaccination in Islamic countries. Though Islamic teachings support vaccination, hesitancy results from a complex mixture of sociological and technological barriers that include misinformation, lack of trust, poor living conditions, and vaccine inequity in resource-limited communities. Climate change will act as a threat multiplier, particularly in areas inhabited by over 80 percent of the world’s Muslims. Successful approaches from Islamic countries highlight the role of cultural and religious perspectives, infrastructure, and biological factors on the coverage and efficacy of childhood, adolescent and adult vaccines. The learnings offer strategies to improve vaccination everywhere, but particularly in Muslim populations.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609316</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609316</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Non-pharmacological and physical strategies for managing dental anxiety: a systematic review with implications for dental education]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-31T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Angelika Wawrzyniak</author><author>Natalia Sadowska</author><author>Maria Pawlak-Mojsiewicz</author><author>Natalia Walczuk</author><author>Diana Masłyk</author><author>Izabela Barczyk</author><author>Piotr Skomro</author><author>Magdalena Sroczyk-Jaszczyńska</author><author>Karina Kijak</author><author>Helena Gronwald</author><author>Lidia Szczucka</author><author>Adam Andrzej Garstka</author><author>Danuta Lietz-Kijak</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesDental anxiety remains a significant barrier to effective oral healthcare, contributing to treatment avoidance and poorer clinical outcomes. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of non-pharmacological and physical interventions in reducing dental anxiety and improving patient cooperation.MethodsA systematic search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Dentistry & Oral Sciences Source, and Google Scholar for studies published between 1971 and 2024. Randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental, and observational studies assessing non-pharmacological or technology-assisted interventions in children and adults were included. Study selection and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers. The certainty of evidence was assessed using the GRADE framework.ResultsA total of 126 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Interventions were grouped into three categories: technological/physical (e.g., computer-controlled anesthesia, Er:YAG laser, TENS), sensory-relaxation (e.g., aromatherapy, breathing techniques, hypnosis), and digital/interactive (e.g., mobile applications, audiovisual distraction, humanoid robots). The majority of studies reported reductions in anxiety or improvements in patient cooperation. The strongest evidence supported computer-controlled anesthesia systems while moderate-certainty evidence was identified for aromatherapy, laser-based interventions, and audiovisual distraction. Several additional interventions demonstrated potentially beneficial effects, although the certainty of evidence remained limited due to methodological weaknesses.ConclusionNon-pharmacological and physical interventions can effectively reduce dental anxiety and enhance treatment acceptance across diverse patient populations. Integrating these strategies into routine clinical practice and dental education may improve patient-centered care and reduce reliance on pharmacological methods. Further high-quality studies are needed to confirm long-term effectiveness and support implementation.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251229878, identifier CRD420251229878.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609625</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609625</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Public health action on extreme heat in three Canadian provinces: a scoping review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-31T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Mélanie S. S. Seabrook</author><author>Imaan Umar</author><author>Stephanie Simpson</author><author>Ana Patricia Ayala</author><author>Edward C. Xie</author><author>Q. Jane Zhao</author><author>Sara Allin</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo examine how public health activities addressing extreme heat align with Canada’s Essential Public Health Functions; the roles taken by public health authorities in collaborative responses; and the extent of heat response evaluations to date in three Canadian provinces.MethodsFollowing Arksey and O’Malley’s Framework, we conducted a scoping review of academic and grey literature on public health heat strategies in British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec, Canada between 2005 and 2026. We searched ten academic databases, and scanned government and non-government websites. Academic sources were double-screened using Covidence software.ResultsWe identified 26 peer-reviewed articles (British Columbia: 7, Ontario: 8, and Quebec: 16) and 429 grey literature sources. Nine sources evaluated heat responses across the three provinces. Public health authorities across the provinces fulfilled similar Essential Public Health Functions, focused on downstream response including establishing heat alert systems and communicating preventative health information. Public health actors primarily play advisory roles in intersectoral heat responses, though some co-lead responses.ConclusionOur findings suggest ongoing gaps in upstream public health heat strategies, and meaningful collaborations with at-risk communities.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609133</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609133</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Use and impact of risk-based eligibility models in low-dose computed tomography lung cancer screening: a systematic review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-20T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Veronika Elisabeth Mikl</author><author>Mohammad Azizzadeh</author><author>Marie-Kathrin Breyer</author><author>Kevin ten Haaf</author><author>Valentin Ritschl</author><author>Judit Simon</author><author>Tanja Stamm</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesLow-dose computed tomography lung cancer screening (LDCT-LCS) significantly reduces mortality, yet identifying high-risk individuals while reducing over-screening remains challenging. Risk-based eligibility models are promising to optimize participant selection. Within the European context, we assessed the types, outcomes, and impact of these risk-based eligibility models for LDCT-LCS.MethodsWe systematically reviewed prediction model studies (PROSPERO CRD42025648906) across EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. We included original research on adults aged 18+ at risk for LC, excluding East-Asian populations. Study characteristics, model type, performance and outcomes were extracted for narrative synthesis.ResultsThe review included 46 articles (2003–2025), identifying 39 risk-prediction models. Models were primarily statistical (72%); PLCOm2012 was most frequent. Age (100%), smoking duration (91%), and intensity (72%) were the most common variables. Risk models improved eligibility and demonstrated cost-effectiveness over traditional criteria, though heterogeneity and population-specific calibration remain challenges.ConclusionRisk-based eligibility models improve LDCT-LCS efficiency by enhancing detection rates and personalization. While PLCOm2012 is prominent, addressing model heterogeneity, ensuring population-specific validation, and calibration are crucial to optimize LDCT-LCS outcomes in Europe.Systematic Review RegistrationIdentifier CRD42025648906.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608923</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608923</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Ventilation and filtration strategies to reduce respiratory infections in schools: a scoping review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-16T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Elisabetta Erriu</author><author>Jennifer Hasselgard-Rowe</author><author>Elsa Gaillard</author><author>Antoine Flahault</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectiveThis scoping review examines evidence on ventilation and filtration strategies in schools and their association with respiratory infection incidence and proxy indicators such as CO2, particulate levels, and absenteeism.MethodsFollowing PRISMA-ScR guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science (19 March 2025) for studies published between 2020 and 2025 in English, French, or Italian. Eligible designs included interventional, observational, and modelling studies, as well as reviews. Screening and data extraction were performed using Rayyan, and similar publications were verified with LiteRev.ResultsSixty-two studies met inclusion criteria. Mechanical ventilation, especially with high-efficiency filtration, was associated with lower CO2, fewer airborne particles, and reduced infection incidence or absenteeism. Natural ventilation showed variable effectiveness influenced by climate and window use. Hybrid systems and multilayered approaches provided the greatest reductions in estimated infection risk.ConclusionVentilation and filtration strategies reduce respiratory infection risk in schools. Mechanical and hybrid systems perform more reliably than natural ventilation. Further research should address feasibility, safety, sustainability, and implementation in low-resource settings.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609638</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609638</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Interwoven urban crises: how health, housing, and climate change intersect]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-15T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Special Issue Editorial</category>
        <author>Ana Isabel Ribeiro</author><author>George Richard Lueddeke</author><author>Nino Kuenzli</author>
        <description></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609208</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609208</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Personalised prevention and management of kidney stones: a narrative review on the importance of integrating environmental, social and genetic factors]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-10T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Aleksandra Leonova</author><author>Rosa Sinisi</author><author>Stefano Alba</author><author>Vincenzo Andracchio</author><author>Alberto Piana</author><author>Carmela Leonessa</author><author>Giuseppina Rose</author><author>Vito Summa</author><author>Giuseppe Passarino</author><author>Paolina Crocco</author>
        <description><![CDATA[Kidney stone disease (KSD) is a prevalent, multifactorial, and common disorder influenced by environmental and genetic factors, with increasing global incidence and high recurrence rates. Despite advances, understanding the interplay between urinary biochemistry, lifestyle, climate, and genetic predispositions remains essential for effective management. In this review, we evaluate current concepts on KSD pathophysiology, epidemiology, stone composition, and formation mechanisms, alongside recent diagnostic and therapeutic developments. We emphasize integrating genetic, environmental, and clinical data to inform personalized prevention and treatment strategies. These insights support tailored approaches that may improve patient outcomes and reduce recurrence, highlighting the potential of personalized medicine in addressing the complex etiology of KSD.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608934</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608934</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Structural barriers to implementing individual placement and support in Japanese disability policies and Labor systems]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Policy Brief</category>
        <author>Sosei Yamaguchi</author><author>Teruo Hayashi</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundThis study aimed to contextualize structural barriers to the implementation of Individual Placement and Support (IPS) in Japan.AnalysisWe examined the position of Japan’s employment service policies for individuals with mental illness within the OECD framework for IPS implementation and identified key challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a narrative search of Japanese policy documents with systematic searches of Japanese IPS research. According to the OECD framework, Japan’s IPS implementation was positioned between the stages of “Building the foundations for integrated mental health, skills, and work policy” and “Shifting from trials to a scaled-up integrated approach.” A major barrier was the absence of a comprehensive vocational service system for individuals with a diagnosis of severe mental illness.Policy OptionsAdvancing IPS dissemination in Japan requires multifaceted strategies, including grassroots efforts by service providers, strengthened advocacy, incorporation of employer and client perspectives, and consideration of resource allocation across populations with varying levels of needs.ConclusionWhile macro-level research on IPS implementation remains scarce in Japan, the practical and feasible policy considerations identified in this study could be beneficial in Japan as well as other non-Western contexts encountering similar implementation challenges.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609683</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609683</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Bright days, dark nights: translating science on the non-visual effects of light into public health guidance]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-07T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Policy Brief</category>
        <author>Maya Piper</author><author>Kai Broszio</author><author>Jan Denneman</author><author>Marijke Gordijn</author><author>Elise McGlashan</author><author>Renske Lok</author><author>Raymond P. Najjar</author><author>Luke Price</author><author>David Sliney</author><author>Oliver Stefani</author><author>Juliette van Duijnhoven</author><author>Laura Kervezee</author><author>Manuel Spitschan</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundLight is a daily environmental exposure that can influence circadian timing, sleep, alertness, mood, and cognition, yet public health guidance still focuses mainly on optical-radiation hazards rather than healthy patterns of visible light and darkness.AnalysisThis policy brief translates recent evidence and expert consensus on the non-visual effects of ocular light exposure into public health guidance. The evidence supports a practical 24-h pattern: brighter light during the morning and daytime, lower light in the evening, and darkness or near-darkness during sleep. This principle should be communicated as general guidance rather than a universal dose, because responses vary with timing, intensity, spectrum, duration, prior light exposure, age, work schedules, health status, and geography.Policy optionsPublic health organizations can communicate plain-language guidance, integrate light into workplaces, schools, healthcare, elder care, housing, and public buildings, align daylight messages with sun-safety advice, and support research, measurement, and melanopic labeling.ConclusionClear, proportionate guidance on light and darkness can help people and institutions structure daily environments to support circadian alignment, sleep, alertness, mental health, and wellbeing.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609646</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609646</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Systematic review of initiatives promoting health career paths for secondary-level students]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-07-02T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Julia Stiz</author><author>Anne-Linda Camerini</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThis systematic review examined healthcare career promotional initiatives targeting secondary-level students to characterize initiative types, evaluate their effectiveness at influencing students’ knowledge, interest, attitudes, and healthcare career pathways, and identify factors influencing program success.MethodsA pre-registered systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Seven databases were searched. Analysis and interpretation were guided by a modified Motivation–Opportunity–Ability (MOA) model. Study quality was assessed with adapted checklists.ResultsFifty studies with a total of 5,315 participants were included. Forty-four initiatives were North American, targeting grades eleven and twelve through camps, courses, internships, mentorships, and continuum programs. Studies observed short-term improvements in interest, attitudes, knowledge, and career pathways. The success of initiatives was associated with flexibility, accessibility, funding, cultural relevance, and community involvement. Risk of bias assessment was heterogeneous, ranging from moderate to high.ConclusionCurrent healthcare career promotional initiatives are promising but constrained by moderate quality, geographical limitation, and heterogeneity. The Integrated MOA-Informed Model offers a valuable framework for the design and evaluation of future initiatives, highlighting the need for more rigorous, diverse, and longitudinal evaluations.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD42024515728, identifier CRD42024515728.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609108</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609108</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Key determinants of self-management in patients with non-dialysis-dependent chronic kidney disease: a systematic review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-30T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Alimzhan Muxunov</author><author>Dina Kalinina</author><author>Ikechi Okpechi</author><author>Racquel Lowe-Jones</author><author>Abduzhappar Gaipov</author><author>Zhanat Kuanshaliyeva</author><author>Symbat Bayakhmetova</author><author>Meruyert Madikenova</author><author>Antonio Sarria-Santamera</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesAdoption of recommended self-management behaviors has been associated with a lower risk of disease progression, cardiovascular morbidity, and mortality in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This systematic review aims to identify factors associated with the adherence of non-dialysis-dependent CKD (NDD-CKD) patients to recommended self-management practices.MethodsFollowing PRISMA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Medline, and CINAHL Plus databases from 1st January 2010 to 30th June 2024. The extracted data included associations of variables with self-management scores. The findings were descriptively presented in a grouped tabular form. The study was registered with the PROSPERO, CRD42024547304.ResultsFrom 1,914 studies identified, 16 cross-sectional studies with 3,658 participants were selected for inclusion. Objective CKD knowledge, health literacy, self-efficacy and social support consistently showed positive associations with self-management across multiple studies.ConclusionThis systematic review revealed multiple factors associated with self-management in NDD-CKD patients, with disease-related knowledge, health literacy, and self-efficacy showing the most consistent positive associations across studies. Healthcare providers and policymakers should develop and implement health literacy and awareness programs as a strategy for improving patient outcomes.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=547304, identifier CRD42024547304.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608819</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608819</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Poor adherence to cancer therapy in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-25T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Astewle Andargie Baye</author><author>Yirgalem Abere</author><author>Demewoz Kefale</author><author>Yeshiambaw Eshetie</author><author>Mengistu Ewunetu</author><author>Lakachew Yismaw Bazezew</author><author>Gebrie Kassaw Yirga</author><author>Gebrehiwot Berie Mekonnen</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesPoor adherence significantly compromises the effectiveness and success of cancer treatment. Understanding the full scope and contributing factors of poor adherence is essential for improving patient care. Therefore, this review aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of poor adherence to cancer therapy in Ethiopia.MethodsThe preliminary concepts were registered into PROSPERO. Comprehensive searches of multiple databases were conducted to identify relevant articles. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled effect size. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Publication bias was evaluated through both qualitative and quantitative methods. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was done to ensure the robustness of the studies.ResultsThe analysis includes 15 studies with a total of 7,115 cancer patients. The result indicates that, the overall pooled prevalence of poor adherence to cancer therapy in Ethiopia was 41.45% (95% CI: 33.37–49.52). Comorbidity, treatment side-effects, and residency settings are factors independently associated with poor adherence.ConclusionPoor adherence to cancer therapy in Ethiopia is significant. Therefore, efforts are needed to increase adherence. Comprehensive and timely management of comorbid conditions and treatment adverse effects can increase adherence to treatment.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608243</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1608243</link>
        <title><![CDATA[A post-PHEIC review of cultural awareness in the COVID-19 response]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-24T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Review</category>
        <author>Kyoo-Man Ha</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThe PHEIC status of COVID-19 was officially lifted by the WHO on May 5, 2023. However, many nations continue to grapple with its impacts, particularly those that have not fully embraced the emergency culture. This study aims to explore ways to enhance emergency culture that rose during the COVID-19 response, ultimately contributing to effective pandemic management.MethodsA systematic literature review, including the PRISMA 2020 flow diagram and checklist, was used to compare cultural unawareness with cultural awareness across six nations: Japan, Sweden, South Africa, the United States, Brazil, and Australia.ResultsTo varying degrees, all six nations exhibited cultural unawareness during their COVID-19 responses, which manifested in issues such as personal responsibilities, herd immunity, inequalities, individualism, economic priorities, language barriers, and other factors.ConclusionThese six nations must adaptively transform their cultural unawareness into cultural awareness while enhancing leadership, communication, cultural competence, emergency preparedness, and international cooperation. This study offers a comprehensive perspective on the emergency culture surrounding the coronavirus pandemic, emphasizing the critical importance of cultural awareness.]]></description>
      </item><item>
        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609639</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609639</link>
        <title><![CDATA[From commitment to capacity: strengthening Europe’s public health response to cardiovascular disease and diabetes through life-course prevention]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-24T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Policy Brief</category>
        <author>Sarah Cuschieri</author>
        <description><![CDATA[BackgroundCardiovascular disease and diabetes remain the leading causes of premature mortality in Europe, despite longstanding political commitments and the availability of cost-effective preventive interventions. As the global public health community approaches the 40th anniversary of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion, persistent gaps between prevention principles and implementation require renewed policy focus.AnalysisThis policy brief synthesises evidence from international reports and European initiatives to examine why prevention efforts for cardiovascular disease and diabetes have not achieved sufficient scale or impact. It highlights the role of obesity, diabetes, and early-life risk exposure in shaping cardiovascular risk, alongside fragmented surveillance systems and continued reliance on reactive, treatment-centred care. While current policy frameworks demonstrate ambition, implementation and accountability remain inconsistent.Policy OptionsPriority actions include embedding life-course prevention across cardiovascular and diabetes strategies, strengthening primary and community-based prevention, investing in equity-oriented surveillance, and scaling collaborative initiatives such as JACARDI and JA PreventNCD.ConclusionAchieving equitable prevention of cardiovascular disease and diabetes requires a shift from reactive care to sustained life-course prevention.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609310</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609310</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Preventive Measures and Crowd Management Strategies to Mitigate the Risk of Stampedes in Public Gatherings: A Systematic Review]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-18T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Rahul Singh Chowhan</author><author>Ramesh Kumar Hudda</author><author>Arun Kumar Sharma</author><author>Pankaj Bhardwaj</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesTo evaluate crowd-management strategies used at mass public gatherings and to identify the evidence gaps and priorities that reduce the risk of stampedes.MethodsFollowing PRISMA 2020 and PRISMA-S guidelines, the paper searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar (gray literature), and the WHO Global Health Library (gray literature) published between January 1, 2010 and December 30, 2025. Eligible studies included observational, quasi-experimental, and simulation-based evaluations of crowd-safety interventions. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and appraised study quality using ROBINS-I and JBI checklist. A narrative (thematic) synthesis grouped interventions into engineering, operational, technology, and communication approaches.ResultsOf 833 unique records identified, 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Included studies were mainly observational analyses, simulation/modeling studies, or quasi-experiments from diverse settings (pilgrimages, festivals, sports events). Multi-modal strategies combining environmental design (one-way flows, barriers), operational controls, real-time monitoring, and trained personnel were consistently associated with improved crowd-flow indicators (shorter evacuation times).ConclusionIntegrated crowd-management approaches can mitigate stampede risks, but require high-quality empirical evaluations and standardized outcome metrics to strengthen evidence for policy and practice.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251142906, identifier CRD420251142906.]]></description>
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        <guid isPermaLink="true">https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609470</guid>
        <link>https://www.ssph-journal.org/articles/10.3389/phrs.2026.1609470</link>
        <title><![CDATA[Job performance among health professionals in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis]]></title>
        <pubdate>2026-06-17T00:00:00Z</pubdate>
        <category>Systematic Review</category>
        <author>Hailemariam Gezie</author><author>Mekuriaw Wuhib</author><author>Dagnew Tigabu</author><author>Habtam Gelaye</author>
        <description><![CDATA[ObjectivesThis systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore the pooled estimate of good job performance among health professionals in Ethiopia.MethodsWe searched multiple databases, such as PubMed, African Journals Online, Hinari, Google Scholar, and repositories, by combining keywords using the Boolean operators “AND” and “OR.” Observational studies that reported job performance were screened by their title, abstract, and full texts and included in this review. Data were extracted using a standardized Excel template and analyzed using STATA 17 software. We pooled good job performance in the random effects model. Heterogeneity was checked using the Galbraith plot, I2, and Q statistics and identified by subgroup and sensitivity analyses. Publication bias was assessed using a funnel plot.ResultsThe meta-analysis revealed a 66% (CI: 55, 77) pooled prevalence of good job performance among Ethiopian health professionals. Higher estimates were observed in studies with a sample size of <350 (72%), conducted in Addis Ababa (76%), after 2020 (65%), and among nurses (69%).ConclusionOnly two-thirds of Ethiopian health professionals demonstrated good job performance, highlighting the need for implementing targeted performance improvement interventions.Systematic Review Registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251013239, identifier CRD420251013239.]]></description>
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