5D: Health Promotion Innovations and Impact
Tracks
Track 4
| Thursday, September 18, 2025 |
| 1:15 PM - 2:45 PM |
| Norfolk Room |
Overview
Long Oral Presentations
Speaker
Dr Ross Hollett
Lecturer
Edith Cowan University
Evidence Based Health Messaging: Countering Junk Food Marketing in Australian Sports Broadcasting
Abstract
Background
Junk food advertising dominates sports broadcasting in Australia, raising concerns about its influence on public health. While efforts exist to counteract unhealthy food marketing, limited research explores how the framing and duration of health promotion messages can shape immediate consumption behaviours. This study examines the prevalence and impact of junk food and anti-junk food advertisements in Australian sports broadcasts and evaluates how strategic messaging can support public health objectives.
Methods
A content analysis of Australian Football and National Rugby League broadcasts quantified the prevalence of junk food versus anti-junk food advertising. Two subsequent experimental studies (N = 428; N = 505) exposed participants to either a junk food or anti-junk food advertisement, measuring immediate cravings and consumption intentions. Analyses examined variations in ad framing, duration, and audience characteristics.
Results
Junk food advertisements constituted 10.85% of all ads, while anti-junk food messaging was rare (<0.01%). Across both studies, junk food advertisements did not increase cravings or consumption intentions, regardless of BMI. However, anti-junk food advertisements significantly reduced junk food cravings, particularly among healthy-weight participants. Effectiveness of these anti-junk messages varied with shorter (15-second) anti-junk food ads more impactful for healthy-weight individuals, whereas overweight participants responded more positively to messaging that promoted nutritious food rather than criticized unhealthy options.
Conclusions & Implications
Strategically designed anti-junk food advertisements can counteract the pervasive influence of unhealthy food marketing in sports broadcasting, but their effectiveness depends on framing, duration, and audience demographics. Public health leaders and policymakers must collaborate across sectors to integrate evidence-based messaging in high-exposure environments, ensuring that health communication strategies promote sustainable and equitable nutrition awareness.
Junk food advertising dominates sports broadcasting in Australia, raising concerns about its influence on public health. While efforts exist to counteract unhealthy food marketing, limited research explores how the framing and duration of health promotion messages can shape immediate consumption behaviours. This study examines the prevalence and impact of junk food and anti-junk food advertisements in Australian sports broadcasts and evaluates how strategic messaging can support public health objectives.
Methods
A content analysis of Australian Football and National Rugby League broadcasts quantified the prevalence of junk food versus anti-junk food advertising. Two subsequent experimental studies (N = 428; N = 505) exposed participants to either a junk food or anti-junk food advertisement, measuring immediate cravings and consumption intentions. Analyses examined variations in ad framing, duration, and audience characteristics.
Results
Junk food advertisements constituted 10.85% of all ads, while anti-junk food messaging was rare (<0.01%). Across both studies, junk food advertisements did not increase cravings or consumption intentions, regardless of BMI. However, anti-junk food advertisements significantly reduced junk food cravings, particularly among healthy-weight participants. Effectiveness of these anti-junk messages varied with shorter (15-second) anti-junk food ads more impactful for healthy-weight individuals, whereas overweight participants responded more positively to messaging that promoted nutritious food rather than criticized unhealthy options.
Conclusions & Implications
Strategically designed anti-junk food advertisements can counteract the pervasive influence of unhealthy food marketing in sports broadcasting, but their effectiveness depends on framing, duration, and audience demographics. Public health leaders and policymakers must collaborate across sectors to integrate evidence-based messaging in high-exposure environments, ensuring that health communication strategies promote sustainable and equitable nutrition awareness.
Biography
Dr. Ross Hollett is a psychology lecturer and course coordinator at Edith Cowan University in Perth. He specialises in data analysis, experimental design and media exposure research. His work broadly examines how media exposure—ranging from fashion imagery to alcohol advertising—shapes individual and public health outcomes, including body image perceptions and unhealthy consumption habits. He uses a wide variety of measurement techniques, including eye tracking and skin conductance, to examine how people respond to potentially harmful visual material. His work has been published in leading journals and has been widely reported on in public media. Importantly, his recent efforts utilising psychological methodologies to explore issues that threaten public health (such as alcohol and junk food advertising) highlight the intersection of behavioural science and policy implications. His current program of research contributes to informing evidence-based strategies for improving public health messaging by understanding the psychological mechanisms behind media influence.
Dr Calan Spielman
Public Health Registrar
Central Queensland Public Health Unit
Shingrix vaccination uptake and adverse reactions in Central Queensland and Central West
Abstract
Background: Shingles incidence has shown an upward trend in Queensland, with reported rates increasing from 300 per 100,000 in 2021 to 340 per 100,000 in 2023. Notably, Queensland is the only Australian state experiencing a decline in shingles vaccination coverage, dropping from 52.6% in 2022 to 45.3% in 2023. The National Immunisation Program (NIP) recently transitioned its funded shingles vaccine from Zostavax to Shingrix, citing Shingrix’s superior long-term protection, reduced side-effect profile, and availability for a broader target population. This study aims to assess the uptake of Shingrix and analyse adverse events following immunisation (AEFIs) for Shingrix in Central Queensland (CQ) and Central West (CW).
Methods and Analysis: Shingrix vaccination data were extracted from the Australian Immunisation Register and AEFI notifications were obtained from the Notifiable Conditions System from 1st November 2023 to 31st March 2025. Data were analysed by age and region, and AEFI symptoms were coded for comparison. Population data were sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Results: A total of 7,483 Shingrix doses were administered across CQ and CW during the study period, with 3,125 individuals completing the two-dose course. Uptake was highest among those aged >80 years (57.5%), followed by 76–80 year-olds (19.8%). In contrast, uptake in 66–75 year-olds was low (2.4%). Twenty AEFIs were reported, equating to 26.7 per 10,000 doses. The 66–70 age group experienced the highest AEFI rate (946 per 10,000), accounting for 35% of AEFIs despite representing only 1% of vaccinations. The >80 age group had the lowest AEFI rate (11.6 per 10,000). Most AEFIs were mild and consistent with expected post-vaccination reactions.
Conclusions: Transition to Shingrix from Zostavax has seen increased vaccination coverage, especially those over 75. AEFI rates remain consistent with expected safety profiles, though higher reporting in the 66–70 age group warrants further monitoring.
Methods and Analysis: Shingrix vaccination data were extracted from the Australian Immunisation Register and AEFI notifications were obtained from the Notifiable Conditions System from 1st November 2023 to 31st March 2025. Data were analysed by age and region, and AEFI symptoms were coded for comparison. Population data were sourced from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Results: A total of 7,483 Shingrix doses were administered across CQ and CW during the study period, with 3,125 individuals completing the two-dose course. Uptake was highest among those aged >80 years (57.5%), followed by 76–80 year-olds (19.8%). In contrast, uptake in 66–75 year-olds was low (2.4%). Twenty AEFIs were reported, equating to 26.7 per 10,000 doses. The 66–70 age group experienced the highest AEFI rate (946 per 10,000), accounting for 35% of AEFIs despite representing only 1% of vaccinations. The >80 age group had the lowest AEFI rate (11.6 per 10,000). Most AEFIs were mild and consistent with expected post-vaccination reactions.
Conclusions: Transition to Shingrix from Zostavax has seen increased vaccination coverage, especially those over 75. AEFI rates remain consistent with expected safety profiles, though higher reporting in the 66–70 age group warrants further monitoring.
Biography
Calan Spielman is a first year Public Health Registrar Advance Trainee who recently joined the Central Queensland Public Health Unit at the start of 2025 to begin his Public Health training. He had previously been working as a junior doctor in the Cairns and Hinterlands Hospital and Health Service for 3 years. He has completed a Bachelor of Science (Adv Hons 1), Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. He worked in medical research for 4 years as a research assistant in pancreatic and prostate cancer before embarking on his medical career. He also plays ultimate frisbee competitively when he isn't recovering from an ACL reconstruction.
Ms Hurjehan Kadernani
Phd Student
Flinders University
Effectiveness of integrated oral, vision, and hearing care models for older adults
Abstract
Objective:
The objective of the systematic review is to examine the effectiveness of integrated dental, vision and hearing workforce models for older adults in community care settings.
Background:
Dental, vision, and hearing conditions are among the most common long-term health conditions associated with ageing and are significant contributors to late-life disability burden (approximately 15%) and reduced quality of life (approximately 20-30%) (Hummel et al., 2022; Bowling et al., 2023). Prevention and early diagnosis yield substantial benefits, encompassing the reduction of emergency hospital admissions, cost-savings to health systems, and improved quality of life (UCL, 2025). Integration of dental, vision, and hearing services is important because it ensures comprehensive care for aging populations, improves early detection of related health issues, and enhances overall patient outcomes through coordinated, multidisciplinary approaches (Wang et al., 2022).
Selection criteria:
This review included studies on older adults, typically aged 60 years and above, and studies that addressed a larger subset of the population, with older people comprising at least 50% of the study sample. Services provided by dental, vision, or hearing personnel in conjunction with at least one additional health or welfare workforce group were included to reflect integrated care provision beyond the discipline. Settings included non-institutionalised environments, such as community services, general practitioner care, nurse visits, or home visits. Outcomes examined encompassed health outcomes (both clinical and non-clinical), quality of life, service improvement, and costs.
Methods:
A three-step search strategy was conducted within the following databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus, including articles from January 2010 to June 2024. Two reviewers assessed all papers against the inclusion criteria, both for the title abstract and full text screening. A convergent integrated approach using the JBI mixed methods methodology was followed for critical appraisal, data extraction, and data synthesis and integration.
Results:
From the total search of 685 articles, 14 papers were included: qualitative (n=5), quantitative (n=3) and mixed methods (n=6). Interprofessional collaboration including at least one dental, vision or hearing provider along with other providers was the key focus of these studies. The workforce models used were classified as profession-led (n=10) whereby the study was led by a dental (n=5), vision (n=3) or hearing (n=2) expert or collaborative-led (n=4), involving an extended skill mix and distributed leadership. These studies broadly highlighted on barriers on providing integrated health services (n=4), interprofessional education programs (n=3), and patient care process (n=7). Profession-led models were more focussed on clinical intervention, while collaborative led models were aimed at health promotion, health education and preventative care. The effectiveness of the workforce models in the studies was demonstrated by improved patient satisfaction, enhanced care coordination, and better healthcare access, despite challenges in communication and resource management.
Conclusion:
The review strengthens evidence for integrated dental, vision and hearing health workforce models to be implemented for older adults living in community dwellings. While both models had benefits, a collaborative led model identified and distributed transformative leadership care models which are more focussed on improving skill mix and empowerment. The profession led model appeared more suitable for intervention work, yet challenges persist on making it more relevant to patient needs.
References:
1. Hummel, J., et al. (2022). The burden of oral disease in older adults. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology.
2. Bowling, C. B., et al. (2023). Sensory impairments and quality of life in older populations. Innovative Aging, 7(1).
3. UCL (2025). New home-based intervention could reduce emergency hospital admissions in older people. University College London News.
4. Wang, H., et al. (2022). Person-centered care models for integrating dental and health services in older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 20.
The objective of the systematic review is to examine the effectiveness of integrated dental, vision and hearing workforce models for older adults in community care settings.
Background:
Dental, vision, and hearing conditions are among the most common long-term health conditions associated with ageing and are significant contributors to late-life disability burden (approximately 15%) and reduced quality of life (approximately 20-30%) (Hummel et al., 2022; Bowling et al., 2023). Prevention and early diagnosis yield substantial benefits, encompassing the reduction of emergency hospital admissions, cost-savings to health systems, and improved quality of life (UCL, 2025). Integration of dental, vision, and hearing services is important because it ensures comprehensive care for aging populations, improves early detection of related health issues, and enhances overall patient outcomes through coordinated, multidisciplinary approaches (Wang et al., 2022).
Selection criteria:
This review included studies on older adults, typically aged 60 years and above, and studies that addressed a larger subset of the population, with older people comprising at least 50% of the study sample. Services provided by dental, vision, or hearing personnel in conjunction with at least one additional health or welfare workforce group were included to reflect integrated care provision beyond the discipline. Settings included non-institutionalised environments, such as community services, general practitioner care, nurse visits, or home visits. Outcomes examined encompassed health outcomes (both clinical and non-clinical), quality of life, service improvement, and costs.
Methods:
A three-step search strategy was conducted within the following databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Embase and Scopus, including articles from January 2010 to June 2024. Two reviewers assessed all papers against the inclusion criteria, both for the title abstract and full text screening. A convergent integrated approach using the JBI mixed methods methodology was followed for critical appraisal, data extraction, and data synthesis and integration.
Results:
From the total search of 685 articles, 14 papers were included: qualitative (n=5), quantitative (n=3) and mixed methods (n=6). Interprofessional collaboration including at least one dental, vision or hearing provider along with other providers was the key focus of these studies. The workforce models used were classified as profession-led (n=10) whereby the study was led by a dental (n=5), vision (n=3) or hearing (n=2) expert or collaborative-led (n=4), involving an extended skill mix and distributed leadership. These studies broadly highlighted on barriers on providing integrated health services (n=4), interprofessional education programs (n=3), and patient care process (n=7). Profession-led models were more focussed on clinical intervention, while collaborative led models were aimed at health promotion, health education and preventative care. The effectiveness of the workforce models in the studies was demonstrated by improved patient satisfaction, enhanced care coordination, and better healthcare access, despite challenges in communication and resource management.
Conclusion:
The review strengthens evidence for integrated dental, vision and hearing health workforce models to be implemented for older adults living in community dwellings. While both models had benefits, a collaborative led model identified and distributed transformative leadership care models which are more focussed on improving skill mix and empowerment. The profession led model appeared more suitable for intervention work, yet challenges persist on making it more relevant to patient needs.
References:
1. Hummel, J., et al. (2022). The burden of oral disease in older adults. Oral Surgery, Oral Medicine, Oral Pathology and Oral Radiology.
2. Bowling, C. B., et al. (2023). Sensory impairments and quality of life in older populations. Innovative Aging, 7(1).
3. UCL (2025). New home-based intervention could reduce emergency hospital admissions in older people. University College London News.
4. Wang, H., et al. (2022). Person-centered care models for integrating dental and health services in older adults. BMC Geriatrics, 20.
Biography
Hurjehan Kadernani is a public health researcher and PhD candidate in Health Economics at Flinders University, where she also works as a Research Assistant. She has worked on integrated care models for older adults, particularly in dental, vision, and hearing services. She holds Master’s degrees in Healthcare Management and Dental Public and Primary Health, and brings over a decade of international experience across Australia, India, and Kenya. Her previous roles include Health Administrator, Regulatory Medical Writer, and Dental Officer. Hurjehan has led and supported community health initiatives, conducted mixed-methods research, and contributed to peer-reviewed publications. Her research interests include workforce integration, health equity, and access to essential services in community care settings. She is skilled in data analysis, stakeholder engagement, and health communication. Fluent in English, Hindi/Urdu, and Swahili, Hurjehan is committed to advancing culturally responsive, person-centred care and reducing disparities in healthcare access for vulnerable and ageing populations.
Mx Charley Brunton
Senior Care Coordinator
Melbourne City Mission/st Vincent's Hospital Melbourne
Flexible, Person-Centred Mental Health Support for Homeless Youth: The Check-In Model
Abstract
The Check-In program at Frontyard Youth Services aims to support young people aged 12–25 who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness and have complex mental health needs. By offering on-site support at the homelessness access point, with community outreach options, Check-In aims to provide individualised care regardless of mental health catchment area.
Introduced as a pilot project in 2018, Check-In was revitalized in 2024 with a new approach focusing on a young person's broader goals. Rather than rigid therapeutic interventions, the program empowers young people to identify and work towards their goals from a person-centred perspective, in the context of their individual care ecosystem. Goals are focused on addressing not only specific mental health needs, but building skills to navigate health systems, manage daily living skills, and address social factors contributing to the young person's mental wellbeing.
The multidisciplinary team includes mental health peer workers, clinical care coordinators, mental health occupational therapists, and a dual diagnosis clinician. Young people are paired with team members based on their goals and current engagement levels.
The collaborative, holistic approach of Check-In has led to significant improvements in mental health status, reduction or cessation of alcohol and other drug use, enhanced day-to-day functioning, and improved medication adherence among participants. Staff at Frontyard have reported feeling more supported in working with young people with complex mental health needs, leading improved support for all young people accessing Frontyard. Qualitative feedback indicates a strong positive impact of Check-In on the mental health of the young people supported. Improvement work has also focused on enhancing post-discharge pathways for young people experiencing homelessness after going to hospital.
By adopting a flexible, person-centred, and collaborative approach, Check-In has successfully supported many young people in achieving positive mental health outcomes and improved daily functioning. Check-In aims to expand its service to other youth homelessness services in the future.
Introduced as a pilot project in 2018, Check-In was revitalized in 2024 with a new approach focusing on a young person's broader goals. Rather than rigid therapeutic interventions, the program empowers young people to identify and work towards their goals from a person-centred perspective, in the context of their individual care ecosystem. Goals are focused on addressing not only specific mental health needs, but building skills to navigate health systems, manage daily living skills, and address social factors contributing to the young person's mental wellbeing.
The multidisciplinary team includes mental health peer workers, clinical care coordinators, mental health occupational therapists, and a dual diagnosis clinician. Young people are paired with team members based on their goals and current engagement levels.
The collaborative, holistic approach of Check-In has led to significant improvements in mental health status, reduction or cessation of alcohol and other drug use, enhanced day-to-day functioning, and improved medication adherence among participants. Staff at Frontyard have reported feeling more supported in working with young people with complex mental health needs, leading improved support for all young people accessing Frontyard. Qualitative feedback indicates a strong positive impact of Check-In on the mental health of the young people supported. Improvement work has also focused on enhancing post-discharge pathways for young people experiencing homelessness after going to hospital.
By adopting a flexible, person-centred, and collaborative approach, Check-In has successfully supported many young people in achieving positive mental health outcomes and improved daily functioning. Check-In aims to expand its service to other youth homelessness services in the future.
Biography
Charley Brunton (he/they), RN, MPH, is a dedicated nurse and public health professional committed to improving the health and wellbeing of children and young people experiencing complex needs and intersectional marginalisation. With 13 years of nursing experience, Charley brings a deep understanding of how social determinants intersect with health outcomes. As a member of the transgender community with lived experience of mental ill-health, Charley draws on both professional and personal insights to advocate for holistic, equitable care. His career has focused on reducing hospital admissions and improving quality of life for young people with complex medical and psychosocial needs. Currently, Charley is the Senior Care Coordinator for the Check-In program at Frontyard Youth Services, which provides flexible, wraparound support to young people aged 12–25 who are experiencing homelessness and living with complex mental health challenges. Charley’s work is grounded in compassion, equity, and a drive to create lasting impact.
Mr Birye Dessalegn Mekonnen
Phd Student
Deakin University
Barriers and facilitators to engage with the maternity continuum of care
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Women's engagement with maternity care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum helps reduce the alarmingly high maternal and newborn death rates in low and middle-income countries. However, women's engagement with the maternity continuum of care is low in Ethiopia, contributing to adverse maternal and newborn health outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the facilitators and barriers to engaging with the continuum of care.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Fifteen postpartum women and six healthcare workers were purposively selected for interviews in northwest Ethiopia. Informed consent was obtained, and all interviews were recorded. Verbatim transcripts of the interviews were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis approach.
Results: The key barriers to engaging with the maternity continuum of care included lack of knowledge and awareness about maternity care, low health literacy and self-awareness, challenges in accessing and receiving care, lack of social and community support, and cultural and traditional practices. Ongoing conflict in the area was also a major factor contributing to the discontinuation of engagement with the maternity continuum of care. Facilitators for engaging with the maternity continuum of care were also identified, including having awareness of maternity care, understanding the advantages of maternity care, opportunities for accessing and receiving maternity care, support from family and social networks, and community health initiatives.
Conclusions: Multiple barriers contribute to why women do not engage with the maternity continuum of care. Health education efforts should focus on increasing awareness among women and communities about maternity care, supporting women, and considering cultural norms and traditions. Greater commitment is also needed to improve service accessibility and provide respectful maternity care. Moreover, ending conflict and curbing armed robbery are crucial for accessing health facilities.
Background: Women's engagement with maternity care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum helps reduce the alarmingly high maternal and newborn death rates in low and middle-income countries. However, women's engagement with the maternity continuum of care is low in Ethiopia, contributing to adverse maternal and newborn health outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the facilitators and barriers to engaging with the continuum of care.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Fifteen postpartum women and six healthcare workers were purposively selected for interviews in northwest Ethiopia. Informed consent was obtained, and all interviews were recorded. Verbatim transcripts of the interviews were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis approach.
Results: The key barriers to engaging with the maternity continuum of care included lack of knowledge and awareness about maternity care, low health literacy and self-awareness, challenges in accessing and receiving care, lack of social and community support, and cultural and traditional practices. Ongoing conflict in the area was also a major factor contributing to the discontinuation of engagement with the maternity continuum of care. Facilitators for engaging with the maternity continuum of care were also identified, including having awareness of maternity care, understanding the advantages of maternity care, opportunities for accessing and receiving maternity care, support from family and social networks, and community health initiatives.
Conclusions: Multiple barriers contribute to why women do not engage with the maternity continuum of care. Health education efforts should focus on increasing awareness among women and communities about maternity care, supporting women, and considering cultural norms and traditions. Greater commitment is also needed to improve service accessibility and provide respectful maternity care. Moreover, ending conflict and curbing armed robbery are crucial for accessing health facilities.
Biography
Birye Dessalegn Mekonnen is a PhD candidate at Deakin University, Australia, in the School of Nursing and Midwifery. Her doctoral research focuses on maternal, newborn, and infant healthcare across the continuum of care, particularly examining the effect of pregnancy intention and other barriers to maternal and newborn healthcare services. Since earning his MPH in Reproductive and Child Health from the University of Gondar, Ethiopia, Mekonnen has engaged in big data analysis and systematic reviews in reproductive, maternal, and child health research. With a background in public health and over 35 peer-reviewed publications, he is passionate about improving reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health outcomes through evidence-based practice and policy.
Dr Ngoc Minh Pham
Lecturer
Curtin University
Preterm Birth Risk in Migrant Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Background: Migrant and refugee women in high-income countries (HICs) face unique health challenges that may influence perinatal health outcomes, including preterm birth (PTB). However, existing data on PTB risk in this population are inconclusive and conflicting. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesised and pooled the evidence on the risk of PTB among migrant women in HICs.
Method: We searched six databases including Embase, Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Global Health from inception to November 22, 2024. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to estimate pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for PTB, stratified by migrants’ country of origin income classification. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024500996).
Result: Eighty-eight studies from 17 HICs involving 107,820,220 participants were analysed. Sample sizes ranged from 254 to 34,468,901 individuals. Compared to native women, migrants from low-income countries had significantly higher odds of overall PTB, very PTB (28–32 weeks) and moderate/late PTB (32–36 weeks); the respective pooled OR (95% CI) were 1.73 (1.36–2.20), 2.24 (1.46–3.46) and 2.09 (1.21–3.61). Similar associations were found for migrants from lower-middle income countries; the pooled OR (95% CI) of overall PTB, extreme PTB (< 28 weeks) and moderate/late PTB were 2.08 (1.77–2.44), 2.91 (1.56–5.42) and 2.08 (1.39–3.12), respectively. Women from upper-middle income countries and HICs also had elevated overall PTB risks, with the respective OR (95% CI) being 1.48 (1.13–1.95) and 1.48 (1.28–1.71).
Conclusion: Migrant and refugee women in HICs, particularly those from lower-income countries, are at significantly increased risk of PTB. These findings highlight the need to incorporate migration status into clinical screening and public health strategies to reduce PTB incidence and its associated health burdens.
Keywords: Migrant women, high-income countries, origin of country, preterm birth, premature birth
Method: We searched six databases including Embase, Medline, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science and Global Health from inception to November 22, 2024. We conducted a random-effects meta-analysis to estimate pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for PTB, stratified by migrants’ country of origin income classification. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024500996).
Result: Eighty-eight studies from 17 HICs involving 107,820,220 participants were analysed. Sample sizes ranged from 254 to 34,468,901 individuals. Compared to native women, migrants from low-income countries had significantly higher odds of overall PTB, very PTB (28–32 weeks) and moderate/late PTB (32–36 weeks); the respective pooled OR (95% CI) were 1.73 (1.36–2.20), 2.24 (1.46–3.46) and 2.09 (1.21–3.61). Similar associations were found for migrants from lower-middle income countries; the pooled OR (95% CI) of overall PTB, extreme PTB (< 28 weeks) and moderate/late PTB were 2.08 (1.77–2.44), 2.91 (1.56–5.42) and 2.08 (1.39–3.12), respectively. Women from upper-middle income countries and HICs also had elevated overall PTB risks, with the respective OR (95% CI) being 1.48 (1.13–1.95) and 1.48 (1.28–1.71).
Conclusion: Migrant and refugee women in HICs, particularly those from lower-income countries, are at significantly increased risk of PTB. These findings highlight the need to incorporate migration status into clinical screening and public health strategies to reduce PTB incidence and its associated health burdens.
Keywords: Migrant women, high-income countries, origin of country, preterm birth, premature birth
Biography
Dr Ngoc Minh Pham is a lecturer in epidemiology at the School of Population Health, Curtin University, Western Australia. He is a medical doctor by training from Vietnam and received his Master of Public Health and PhD in Medical Science from internationally recognised universities in Australia and Japan, respectively. His main research interests include the epidemiology of lifestyle-related diseases, mental health, maternal and child health. With over 14 years of research and teaching experience, Dr Pham has authored over 90 peer-reviewed publications addressing the epidemiological patterns and risk factors associated with chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and common mental health disorders. Dr Pham is also experienced in conducting systematic reviews and meta-analyses, contributing to evidence synthesis that informs clinical and public health guidelines. A dedicated educator and mentor, Dr Pham integrates epidemiological research and teaching to support evidence-based practice and inspire future public health professionals.
Mrs Shamieka Dubois
Research And Evaluation Officer
Cancer Institute NSW
Evaluating ‘If You Could See UV’ Campaign's impact on NSW Young Adults
Abstract
Background and aims:
Young people aged 18-24 are at higher risk of developing skin cancers due to increased sun exposure and lower sun protection use.₁,₂ To address this, the Institute delivered the ‘If You Could See UV’ campaign targeting 18-24-year-olds in NSW in summer 23/24. The aim was to improve adoption of the five recommended sun protection behaviours (Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide).
Method:
The campaign was evaluated using the Skin Cancer Online Tracking Survey, conducted via an opt-in online panel from 20 December 2023 to 31 March 2024. Survey results from the campaign target age group of 18-24-year-olds (n=927) are presented.
Results:
Among campaign recognisers, there was improved self-reported knowledge, attitudes, intentions and behaviours towards skin cancer and sun protection. Of recognisers, 74%, were more likely to express concern about developing melanoma in the future (compared to 64% of non-recognisers), 77% of recognisers reported higher intentions to use sun protection (compared to 69% of non-recognisers) and 50% of recognisers reported checking the UV index before going out (compared to 43% of non-recognisers).
Importantly, campaign recognisers were more likely to have used sun protection this summer and to regularly adopt at least three sun protection behaviours. Evaluation findings have informed future campaigns.
₁ Arnold M, de Vries E, Whiteman DC, Jemal A, Bray F, Parkin DM, Soerjomataram I. Global burden of cutaneous melanoma attributable to ultraviolet radiation in 2012. Int J Cancer. 2018;143(6):1305–14.
₂ Cancer Institute NSW. 2018 NSW Adult Population Health Survey. Sydney, Australia: NSW Government; 2021 [cited 2023 Jun 19]. Available from: www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/getattachment/56dba918-11f9-4e51-a682-d192d83359c2/sun-protection-behaviours-in-target-populations-fo.pdf
Young people aged 18-24 are at higher risk of developing skin cancers due to increased sun exposure and lower sun protection use.₁,₂ To address this, the Institute delivered the ‘If You Could See UV’ campaign targeting 18-24-year-olds in NSW in summer 23/24. The aim was to improve adoption of the five recommended sun protection behaviours (Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide).
Method:
The campaign was evaluated using the Skin Cancer Online Tracking Survey, conducted via an opt-in online panel from 20 December 2023 to 31 March 2024. Survey results from the campaign target age group of 18-24-year-olds (n=927) are presented.
Results:
Among campaign recognisers, there was improved self-reported knowledge, attitudes, intentions and behaviours towards skin cancer and sun protection. Of recognisers, 74%, were more likely to express concern about developing melanoma in the future (compared to 64% of non-recognisers), 77% of recognisers reported higher intentions to use sun protection (compared to 69% of non-recognisers) and 50% of recognisers reported checking the UV index before going out (compared to 43% of non-recognisers).
Importantly, campaign recognisers were more likely to have used sun protection this summer and to regularly adopt at least three sun protection behaviours. Evaluation findings have informed future campaigns.
₁ Arnold M, de Vries E, Whiteman DC, Jemal A, Bray F, Parkin DM, Soerjomataram I. Global burden of cutaneous melanoma attributable to ultraviolet radiation in 2012. Int J Cancer. 2018;143(6):1305–14.
₂ Cancer Institute NSW. 2018 NSW Adult Population Health Survey. Sydney, Australia: NSW Government; 2021 [cited 2023 Jun 19]. Available from: www.cancer.nsw.gov.au/getattachment/56dba918-11f9-4e51-a682-d192d83359c2/sun-protection-behaviours-in-target-populations-fo.pdf
Biography
Shamieka Dubois is a Research and Evaluation Officer in the Cancer Screening and Prevention Division at the Cancer Institute NSW. Shamieka works on several research projects and evaluations across the areas of skin cancer prevention, anti-tobacco and anti-vaping. Shamieka has over five years of experience working on research and evaluation projects and holds a Bachelor of Advanced Medical Science and a Master of Research.
