Turkey Health Literacy Journal aims to bring together the parties working on the fields of health protection/development and healthy life on a joint platform. Health literacy means individuals achieving the necessary knowledge, skill and self-confidence level for changing their lifestyle and conditions towards improving self health and social health. It is also closely linked to understanding challenging health conditions and issues. Due to the healthcare services perceived sometimes as complex and confusing, many people have a hard time getting information about health and healthcare options. Turkey Health Literacy Journal is an academic journal including the scientific studies, researches and analyses conducted towards the purpose of protecting and developing the health of individuals and improving the quality of life. Turkey Health Literacy Journal is a scientific periodical publication that handles the topics of "Health Literacy" with an interdisciplinary approach in Turkey. Scientific projections of future point out to the need for strengthening the cooperation platforms on the field of health literacy. It is a platform appropriate for knowledge exchange at international level in the field of health literacy. The Journal is published 3 times a year (March-April, July-August, November-December).
Fungal Infections and Health Literacy: The Media in Community Health Awareness
Fungal infections are increasingly recognized as a pressing public health issue due to their substantial morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised populations. The emergence of antifungal resistance underscores the need for robust surveillance and effective community-based prevention strategies. Despite this burden, public awareness and understanding of fungal diseases remain limited, reflecting the critical role of health literacy in shaping health behaviors and outcomes. Health literacy (HL) refers to the ability of individuals to access, comprehend, interpret, and apply health-related information; inadequate HL contributes to misconceptions, delayed health-seeking behavior, and poor treatment adherence. Media plays a pivotal role in shaping community perceptions by producing and disseminating health information. The transition from traditional to digital and social media has expanded access to diverse health messages, but it has also increased the risk of misinformation. Media literacy is therefore essential to empower individuals and communities to critically assess health messages and to make informed health decisions. This review explores the epidemiology of fungal infections, the influence of health literacy on diagnostic and treatment pathways, and the media’s role in constructing public perceptions. It emphasizes the integration of health and media literacy as a strategy to improve community health outcomes. Drawing on national and international examples, the paper highlights the impact of media on public health and provides recommendations for strengthening accurate information dissemination and health education within communities.
Copyright (c) 2026 Turkey Health Literacy Journal
Antenatal Schools – Benefits and Attitudes
Antenatal schools are structured educational programs aimed at supporting expectant mothers and their partners during pregnancy, childbirth, and providing early newborn care. Objective: This study aims to explore the opinions and attitudes of expectant parents regarding participation in antenatal school programs. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a combination of sociological and statistical methods. Data were collected through an online survey administered to pregnant women and expectant parents. Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to evaluate participants’ attitudes toward antenatal school attendance and perceived benefits. Results: Antenatal schools currently reach a considerable proportion of pregnant women; however, the findings indicate potential for broader participation. Pregnant women and mothers-to-be demonstrate a high level of awareness regarding the importance and usefulness of antenatal education, whereas their partners show comparatively lower engagement. The majority of respondents identify antenatal school participation as beneficial, particularly in relation to preparation for childbirth and newborn care. Conclusion: Antenatal schools play a significant role in preparing expectant mothers for childbirth and in developing practical skills for newborn care. Midwives have a central supportive role in antenatal education and contribute substantially to improving maternal knowledge and confidence.
Lichens are composed of the physiological and morphological associations of algae and fungi. The secondary metabolites within lichens enable them to survive even in extreme conditions and adapt to environmental factors. Secondary metabolites confer biological activities such as antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties on lichens. Lichens have numerous applications. From past to present, they have been used in alternative medicine, food, industry, and biomonitoring. The increasing harm caused by microplastics, which are quite small in size, to nature and humans has led to the need to focus on research in this area. Passive biomonitoring of microplastic levels in the air was conducted using various lichen species, particularly the Xanthoria parietina lichen. Microplastic residues were detected in the lichens examined using this method.
Copyright (c) 2025 Turkey Health Literacy Journal
Health Literacy: Individual, Social, and System Dimensions
In this review, the aim is to examine the factors influencing Health Literacy (HL) at individual, community, and system levels, as well as the interaction mechanisms among these levels, and to reveal the role of HL in health promotion, reducing health inequalities, and strengthening health systems. HL is a multidimensional concept that encompasses individuals’ abilities to access, understand, evaluate, and make decisions based on health information, and is closely linked to public health and behaviour change. At the individual level, high HL supports the adoption of preventive health behaviours and treatment adherence by enhancing self-efficacy and informed decision-making capacity. At the community level, HL improves the overall health of the population through social capital, trust, solidarity, and collective health consciousness. At the system level, organizational or institutional HL strengthens the accessibility of health services, patient–professional communication, and the inclusiveness of health policies. Digital health literacy is becoming increasingly important in reducing inequalities in access to information and preventing the effects of infodemics. In conclusion, HL is not only an individual skill but also a strategic public health tool that reduces health inequalities, strengthens community-based communication, and transforms health systems.
Behavior Guidance Techniques in Pediatric Dentistry: An Update
Dental anxiety, fear, and phobia are common psychological conditions encountered in pediatric dentistry, often leading to treatment compliance difficulties and adverse oral health outcomes. The development of these conditions is influenced by children’s previous experiences, parental attitudes, and environmental factors. To address these challenges, various behavior management techniques have been developed in pediatric dentistry. These techniques include communicative approaches, reinforcement methods, distraction, and desensitization strategies, with their effectiveness supported by the literature. However, the advantages, limitations, and parental acceptance of these methods may vary. The aim of this review is to summarize current behavior management techniques in pediatric dentistry, discuss their effectiveness and limitations, and provide practical recommendations for clinical applications. In conclusion, individualized technique selection and consideration of parental involvement are critical for treatment success and for fostering positive dental attitudes in children.
Determination of Factors Affecting Adolescents’ Healthy Lifestyle Behaviors and Self-Efficacy Levels According to the Health Promotion Model
Aim: This study aimed to determine the relationship between adolescents’ healthy lifestyle behaviors and self-efficacy levels, as well as the factors affecting this relationship. Methods: The study was completed between September 15 and October 15, 2020, with 816 adolescents aged 14-17, attending high school in a provincial center, who voluntarily participated. Data were collected using a “Descriptive Questionnaire” including socio-demographic information, the “Adolescent Lifestyle Scale,” and the “Self-Efficacy/Competence Scale.” Results: The mean score of the participants on the Adolescent Lifestyle Scale was found to be =104.07±19.23, and the mean score on the Self-Efficacy Scale was =84.78±14.32. A significant relationship was found between adolescents’ lifestyle behaviors and their self-efficacy levels. Based on the study results, school health policies should promote personalized interventions that enhance adolescents’ self-efficacy and address sociodemographic disparities to support equitable development of healthy lifestyle behaviors. Conclusion: It was concluded that factors such as adolescents’ role in health change and their self-definition of health affect adolescents’ healthy lifestyle behaviors.
The One Health for Environmental Literacy in a Changing World
This project aimed to enhance environmental health literacy (EHL) and green skills among adults through the integration of the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnections between human, animal, and ecosystem health. A mixed set of activities was implemented across Italy, Portugal, and Turkey, including five project meetings, partnership workshops, and training programs. A Trainers’ Training Program in Portugal brought together 24 experts, while adult training sessions reached 130 participants from diverse backgrounds. Educational outputs included trainer and participant guides, as well as a survey implementation and evaluation report. Promotional activities were conducted in all partner countries to disseminate project results. The project also organized three tree planting and plant ownership activities, strengthening environmental responsibility and sustainability awareness. A multisectoral workshop in Italy with 16 participants fostered cross-sectoral dialogue and collaboration. Additionally, the official EnvirONE-HEALTH website and e-learning platform were launched to provide resources, training materials, and communication tools. The One Health Environment Open Platform, integrated within the website, further supported engagement through resources, a chat function, and an EHL survey. Overall, the project significantly contributed to improving EHL, promoting green skills, and fostering interdisciplinary cooperation for sustainable health outcomes.
Effects of Fluoride Use on Oral and Dental Health
Fluoride has been recognized since the 20th century as one of the most important agents with proven efficacy in preventing dental caries. Dental caries, regardless of the diverse socioeconomic or sociocultural characteristics of countries, emerges as a common public health concern. Research has demonstrated that fluoride prevents the demineralization of teeth against acids derived either from dietary sources or produced by cariogenic bacteria such as Streptococcus mutans. Moreover, fluoride may promote the remineralization of early enamel carious white spot lesions and exert antimicrobial effects by disrupting the mechanisms of cariogenic bacteria. For this reason, in combating dental caries, fluoride has been employed both systemically, such as through water fluoridation, and topically, through methods applied by dental professionals such as fluoride gels. In addition to professional applications, fluoride has also gained widespread use at the community level through individual hygiene and care practices, including fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses. The aim of this article is to provide essential knowledge that contributes to health literacy regarding fluoride use, and to present a review on its current applications in dentistry, its mechanisms of caries prevention on dental tissues, and its potential adverse effects.
A Study on Determining Health Literacy and Neighborhood Perceptions Among Hospitalized Children and Their Parents in a City in Turkey
Objective: This study investigates the relationship between health literacy and neighborhood perception among hospitalized children and their parents. Health literacy, encompassing the ability to understand and utilize health information, directly influences health outcomes. Health literacy levels are known to be low in Turkey. This study aims to assess the health literacy levels of children and parents, their perceptions of their neighborhoods, and the interaction between these variables. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed to evaluate health literacy and neighborhood perception among hospitalized children and their parents. The research was conducted between March 1 and October 30, 2024, at a University Health Practice and Research Hospital. Data collection instruments included the Child Demographic Information Form, the Health Literacy Scale for School-Aged Children, the Parent Demographic Information Form, the Health Literacy Scale, and the Perceived Neighborhood Disorder Scale. Results: A total of 648 individuals participated in the study, comprising 324 children and 324 parents. Among the parents, 33.3% were aged 31–39, while 36.5% of the children were aged 11–14. Sociodemographic comparisons revealed statistically significant differences in information access, evaluation, and application based on the number of children (p < 0.01). Conclusion: While the sociodemographic characteristics of parents, as well as the age, gender, and education level of children, were found to influence health literacy, no significant relationship was identified between health literacy and neighborhood perception. The findings highlight the importance of nurses taking active roles in initiatives aimed at improving health literacy.
Investigation of Health Literacy Levels of Inpatient Companions in Terms of Socioeconomic Differences and Some Health Behaviors
The factors that influence health literacy are of significance both on a global scale and within the national context. The present study examines the relationship between the health literacy levels of companions and their socio-economic status and healthy lifestyle behaviours. The study is descriptive in nature and consists of caregivers of patients hospitalised at a university hospital. The data were collected using the Turkish version of the European Health Literacy Scale (ASOY-TR), a questionnaire form to assess individuals' socio-economic status, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) Short Form. The data presented herein were collected by the researcher through the implementation of face-to-face interviews, which took place during the subjects' visits to the institution. The statistical analyses encompassed a range of methods, including counts, percentages, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression analyses. The correlation between age and health literacy levels is negative; that is to say, as individuals grow older, their capacity to comprehend health-related information and make informed decisions about their own health diminishes. Conversely, individuals who possess both a high socio-economic status (SES) and good general health have been shown to have higher levels of adequate health literacy. Individuals who have never smoked exhibited lower health literacy compared to those who had ceased smoking, while those who currently consume alcohol demonstrated similarly deficient health literacy as those who had ceased.
Application of Telemedicine in the Diagnosis of Oncogynaecological Diseases
Abstract: Oncogynaecological diseases, including cervical, endometrial, ovarian cancers, and others, require a comprehensive and multi-layered approach to diagnosis and treatment. Early detection of these diseases is crucial for successful treatment and increasing survival chances. While traditional medical exams remain the foundation for diagnosis, telemedicine offers new ways of delivering these services, especially in situations where access to healthcare specialists is limited. The aim of this paper is to explore the applications of telemedicine in the diagnosis of oncogynaecological diseases, focusing on the advantages, challenges, and potential of this innovative technology. By analyzing current practices and research in this field, we will attempt to outline the future of telemedicine in oncogynaecology and its impact on women's health.
telemedicine, midwife, oncogynaecological diseases, diagnosis
Determining The Food and Nutrition Literacy Status of Universıty Students
Background and Objectives: Food literacy is a multidimensional concept that encompasses the knowledge, skills and motivation to effectively access and use nutrition information. Improving food literacy can promote healthier eating habits, reduce the risk of diet-related diseases, and improve the overall well-being of university students. This study aims to assess the level of food and nutrition literacy among university students. Material and Methods: The population of the study consisted of students of xxx University, while the sample consisted of 560 students. The data of the study were collected using socio-demographic information form and Food and Nutrition Literacy Scale (FNL). Descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test or Kruskal-Wall test were used to analyse the data. Results: It was found that women scored higher on the attitude dimension, that the mean score on the knowledge and behaviour dimension increased with increasing age, that the score of the students of the Vocational School of Health Services was lower than that of the other departments on the knowledge and behaviour dimension, and that the scores on the knowledge and behaviour dimension increased with increasing class. It was found that the behavioural dimension of those who received nutrition support was higher than those who did not, and the mean score of those who received nutrition education was higher in the knowledge and behaviour dimension (p<0.05). Conclusion: It was found that students did not have an adequate level of food and nutrition literacy and that gender, age, class and education influenced this level. In line with these findings, it is recommended that training programmes aimed at raising awareness of healthy eating should be expanded in universities and that sustainable food policies should be developed to enable students to make informed food choices.
Literacy, Nutrition, University Students
A Study on the Satisfaction Levels of Research Assistant Doctors Working in the Department of Public Health at Gazi University Faculty of Medicine
Bu etkin, Gazi Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Halk Sağlığı Anabilim Dalı'nda görev yapanların yaygınlaştığının, eğitim ve eğitimlerinin yoğunlaştığı Bu oluşumların ortaya çıkmasının özgürlüklerinin biçimlendirilmiş bir şekilde dönüştürülmesi. Tanımlayıcı tipte olan bu sürecin gerçekleştirilmesi, araştırma görevlisi doktorların demografik özellikleri, yönetimsel yaklaşımlar ve karar alma süreçlerinden değişim durumu, eğitim öğretim araştırma faaliyetlerinden özgürlük durumu, altyapı ve diğer olanaklardan memnuniyet durumu, kurumsal yardımlaşma durumu hakkında elde edilen verilerin SPSS 23 programı kullanılarak analiz edilmesiyle ortaya çıkarıldı. Bu bilgileri araştıran doktorların çoğunluğunun kendisini ilgilendiren konularda fikrinin yeterince değiştirilmediğinin değiştirilmesi. Katılımcıların yarıdan fazlasının görev tanımlarına uygun olarak çalıştırılmadıkları belirlendi. Araştırma görevlisi doktorların miktarının kendileri tarafından gönderilen yerleşimsal destekten memnun kalması sağlanmıştır. Katılımcıların oranlarının yemekhane ve otopark hizmetlerinden memnun kalmaları da devam ediyor. Araştırma görevlisi doktorlar ve yöneticiler arasındaki iletişimin serbest bırakılması, varsa iş tanımına uygun olmayan görev ve sorumlulukların ayrıntılarıyla ilgili. Ayrıca çalışma ortamı, yemekhane hizmetleri, otopark kapasitesi gibi fiziki şartların da vasatın üzerine çıkarılması için kayıtların yapılması.
iş memnuniyeti, araştırma görevlisi doktor, halk sağlığı, tıpta uzmanlık eğitimi
Çocuk Diş Hekimliğinde Ebeveyn Ağız-Diş Sağlığı Okuryazarlığı ve Çocukların Ağız-Diş Sağlığı Üzerindeki Etkileri
Oral health literacy,a relatively new field within the concept of health literacy,refers to individuals' ability to acquire,process,and apply information related to oral health.Oral health significantly impact not only adults but also children's health.Children's oral health is a fundamental aspect of their general well-being,influencing their quality of life in the long run.Oral health problems during childhood can lead to more severe health issues in adulthood.Parents' level of knowledge about oral health is a crucial factor in shaping children's dental care habits and preventing oral health problems.This review aims to examine the importance of the relationship between parental oral health literacy and children's oral health in the context of pediatric dentistry.Researchs indicates that children of parents with low oral health literacy levels are more likely to experience dental caries and periodontal diseases.Parents' knowledge of oral health directly affects their children's toothbrushing habits,frequency of dental visits, and overall oral hygiene.Additionally,socioeconomic status,education level,and cultural factors are known to influence parental oral health literacy levels.This review provides recommendations for improving parental oral health literacy.Strategies such as educational programs,increased access to healthcare services,awareness campaigns, and the integration of oral health education into child health programs are considered essential for enhancing children's long-term oral health. In conclusion, improving parental oral health literacy is highlighted as a critical factor in positively impacting children's oral health,overall well-being,and quality of life.
Pediatric Dentistry, Oral Health Literacy, Parent, Child Health, Health Literacy
Migration refers to the relocation of individuals for better living conditions, due to the lack of security or economic reasons. It has shaped social, cultural, and economic structures throughout history, influencing both individual lives and societies. Particularly after the onset of the Syrian civil war in 2011, the concept of “forced migration” has gained prominence in Türkiye. Forced migration involves individuals compelled to leave their regions due to wars, natural disasters, or human rights violations. Asylum seekers and refugees often face multidimensional challenges, including language barriers, cultural differences, and social exclusion. Migration health encompasses a holistic approach aimed at preserving the physical, mental, and social well-being of the person. Hosting the largest asylum seeker and refugee population globally, Türkiye has become a key player in international migration health. Civil Society Organizations (CSO) play critical roles in promoting health literacy, cultural adaptation, and strengthening primary healthcare services. Strengthening public-CSO partnerships, leveraging digital solutions to facilitate service accessibility, and ensuring long-term financial support are vital for sustainable solutions in migration health. With its comprehensive approach, Türkiye not only supports the health and integration of asylum seekers and refugees but also serves as a model for best practices on a global scale, contributing to societal health and cohesion.
Göç, Sığınmacı, Mülteci, Göç Sağlığı, Sivil Toplum Kuruluşu
DIABETES AND HYPERTENSION: AN EXAMPLE OF COMMUNITY AWARENESS IN THE CAPITAL
Noncommunicable diseases affect people of all walks of life, all over the world, of all ages, with devastating health consequences for individuals and communities. Hypertension and diabetes are among the most common causes of death and disease all over the world, which are among the leading noncommunicable diseases that are rapidly increasing in incidence and especially affecting low and middle-income societies in the world. The prevalence of hypertension in adults in Turkey is reported as 31.8%. This cross-sectional-descriptive study was conducted to determine the hypertension and diabetes risk factors of individuals who participated in community-based studies carried out to increase awareness of hypertension and diabetes in all districts of Ankara. Data of 2460 people aged 18 and over who participated in the study were examined. The research data were statistically analyzed with the IBM Statistics22.0 SPSS package program. The mean age of the participants in the study was 47.6±14.6. While blood pressure was found to be normal in 60.8% of the blood pressure arterial measurements, instant blood glucose measurements were found in 6.7% of them. Blood sugar and blood pressure were found to be significantly higher in obese individuals. This situation reveals once again that obesity is a significant risk for high blood sugar and high blood pressure. As a result, blood pressure and blood glucose measurements provided at the stands can be an important step for early diagnosis and treatment and can help individuals become conscious about their own health conditions. Considering the importance and impact of community-based studies in the fight against hypertension and diabetes, it is important to conduct more comprehensive and targeted studies.
Hypertension, Diabetes, Community Awareness
Copyright (c) 2024 Turkey Health Literacy Journal
Malatya’da Yaşayan 18-55 Yaş Arası Bireylerin Sağlık Okuryazarlığı Düzeylerinin İncelenmesi
The purpose of this study is to determine the health literacy level of individuals aged 18-55 living in Malatya, Turkey. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted in Malatya province of Turkey between December 2023 and January 2024. A total of 60 individuals aged between 18 and 55, who were able to communicate sufficiently and agreed to participate in the research, were included in the study. The Turkish Health Literacy Scale was used to collect research data. The data were collected via online survey method using the Google Forms application. In the study, it was found that 21.7% of the participants had sufficient to excellent health literacy levels. There were no significant differences in health literacy levels among age groups, gender, marital status, smoking status, and having health insurance. Additionally, the health literacy level was found to be significantly higher among those engaging in physical activity. As a result, this study has shown that the health literacy levels of individuals are quite low and it is crucial to raise them for the improvement of public health. Campaigns aimed at informing the public about how to access accurate health information, especially campaigns led by family physicians who are responsible for the population, and collaborative efforts involving input from the public to make written and verbal health information more understandable can be implemented to increase health literacy in the community.
Bibliometrics provides the big picture of existing research by analyzing information sets of large volumes of data in a particular field or topic. Bibliometric analyzes aim to summarize a large number of bibliometric data in order to reveal the intellectual structure of publications related to a research field or subject and to present the emerging trends. Relationships between documents, authors, sources, institutions and countries in a research field or subject are examined with bibliometric analysis techniques such as citation, co-citation, joint authorship and bibliographic matching. In this study, it is aimed to give an idea about the steps of bibliometric analysis by providing an overview of bibliometric analysis methods.
bibliyometri, bibliyometrik analiz, bilimsel haritalama
PERCEPTIONS OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS REGARDING THE EFFECTS OF ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES ON HEALTH
Purpose: In this study, the aim is to better understand university students' perceptions of the potential impacts of environmental issues on health and to examine how this may influence future environmental policies and individual behavioral patterns. Method: The research is a descriptive type of survey study. The study included 232 university students. The data were analyzed using, SPSS 23 software. Significance level of p<0.05 was considered. Results: 84.1% of the participants believe that there are environmental issues in their living environment. 0.9% of the participants never, 6.5% rarely, 43.1% sometimes, 29.7% often, and 19.8% always perceive that environmental problems can harm health. Individuals with chronic diseases more often perceive that environmental issues can harm health compared to those without such diseases. Those who believe in environmental pollution problems in their living environment are also more likely to perceive that these issues frequently or always affect health compared to non-believers. Conclusion: Our study shows high environmental awareness among participants, yet reveals gaps in understanding the impact of environmental conditions on health. Recognizing the link between environmental issues and health is vital for sustainability and community well-being. Thus, promoting environmental health literacy is crucial to raise awareness and consciousness about environmental matters.
Environmental issues, health, environmental health, environmental health literacy, student
Results and needs of training of trainers of NGO staff working in the earthquake zone after the devastating earthquake in Turkey on 6 February
Earthquakes are natural disasters resulting from the sudden release of energy in the earth's crust. These events affect not only the physical infrastructure but also the general health of the society. Earthquakes, as natural disasters, have far-reaching consequences on healthcare systems, affecting not only immediate medical needs but also the long-term well-being of communities. Along with the acute period of the earthquake, many non-governmental organisations have started to serve in the earthquake region until today. Especially in the field of health, in order to protect public health, many non-governmental organisations continue to work with the public authority in terms of both education and financial support to the earthquake victims. During the visits to the region, it was noteworthy that there were differences in the training and communication skills of the volunteer groups working in these organisations. In order to minimise these differences and to convey the correct information to the society with appropriate communication and training techniques, it was planned to train 30 people from NGO employees providing services in the earthquake region. Methods At the beginning of October 2023, the planned training was announced via e-mail to the managers of NGOs active in the earthquake region. From the first NGOs that applied, 3-5 participants were recruited and 30 people were completed. Results: According to the number of correct answers given by the participants, a statistically significant difference was found in the analysis made according to the total number of correct answers in the pretest and posttest (p<0.001). While 20 (69.0%) of the participants found the duration of the training appropriate, 8 (27.6%) stated that it was too short. When asked to rate the contribution of this training to their personal skills on a scale of one to ten, the participants gave an average answer of 8.10±1.68. When asked which of the topics covered in this training in the evaluation form would be most useful in your profession, 76% (22/29) stated communication skills, 68.9% stated WASH training, 65.5% (19/29) stated problem solving, 55.17% (16/29) stated all topics, and 34% stated primary health care. The content of the training should be reviewed and expanded, taking into consideration the feedback and expectations from the course participants. Efforts should be made to increase the participation of NGOs and stakeholders in the upcoming training sessions. The continuation of providing training and other support for public health improvement in the region is deemed necessary.
Earthquake, NGOs, primary prevention, training of trainers
ANKARA WORKSHOP ON COMBATING THE USE OF TOBACCO AND TOBACCO PRODUCTS: EXPERIENCE OF THE EVENT
Amaç: Başkent Ankara’da Valilik ve Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi işbirliği ile paydaş kurum, kuruluş ve sivil toplum kuruluş temsilcilerini bir araya getirerek ilde tütün ve tütün ürünlerinin kullanımı ile mücadeleye katkı sağlamak amacıyla “Ankara Tütün Ve Tütün Ürünlerinin Kullanımı İle Mücadele Çalıştayı” düzenlenmiştir. Bu çalışma, çalıştay masalarında ele alınan hususların ve uzman katılımcı görüşlerinin değerlendirilmesi amacıyla yapılmıştır. Yöntem: Çalıştay için 5 farklı salonda oluşturulan 5 çalıştay masasında toplam 210 katılımcı bilgi, görgü, tecrübe ve önerilerini aktarmışlardır. Bulgular: Katılımcıların yaş ortalaması 41,4±10,8 (minimum:18-maksimum:65), %58,1(n=122)’i kadın, %63,3(n=133)’ü lisansüstü eğitim seviyesine sahip olup %10,0(n=21)’u halen sigara kullandığını, %18,1(n=38)’i ise kullanmakta iken bıraktığını ifade etmiştir. Sonuç: Dumansız hava sahası uygulaması ile geçmişte Dünya’ya örnek gösterilen Türkiye’de, tütün kullanımının artış trendinde olduğu bir dönemde tütün kullanımı ile mücadelenin her kesimden uzmanlar tarafından etraflıca ele alınmış olan bu çalıştayın çıktılarının, Başkent Ankara ve Türkiye’nin verdiği mücadeleye rehber olması beklenmektedir.
Ankara Gazi Üniversitesi Hastanesi’ne başvuran gebelerin gebelik takip durumu ve etkileyen faktörlerinin değerlendirilmesi
Bu çalışma, Ankara Gazi Üniversitesi Hastanesi'ne başvuran 241 gebenin gebelik takip durumunu ve etkileyen faktörleri incelemeyi amaçlamaktadır. Kadınların demografik özellikleri, gebelik süreçleri, doğurganlık özellikleri, gebelik takibi yaptırma durumları ve etkileyen faktörlere dair veriler kadın hastalıkları ve doğum polikliniğinde yapılan anketler aracılığıyla toplanıp SPSS 23.0 programı kullanılarak analiz edildi. Bu çalışmanın bulgularına göre çalışan ve çalışmayan kadınlar arasında gebelik takibi yaptırma durumu arasında anlamlı bir fark saptanmadı. Ancak, eşiyle akrabalık ilişkisi olan kadınların gebelik takibi yaptırma olasılığının daha düşük olduğu belirlendi. Gebeliği süresince alkol kullanan kadınların gebelik takibi yaptırmama olasılığı daha yüksek bulundu. Aylık hane geliri 2 asgari ücret ve altında olan kadınların gebelik takibi yaptırmama riskinin, 4 asgari ücretten fazla olan kadınların 3,7 katı olduğu tespit edildi. Sonuç olarak, çalışma, gebelik takibi yaptırma eğilimini etkileyen faktörleri değerlendirerek, düşük gelire sahip, eşiyle akrabalık ilişkisi olan ve gebeliğe rağmen alkol kullanmaya devam eden kadınların bu hizmetlerden yeterince faydalanmama eğiliminde olduğunu ortaya koymaktadır. Gebelik takibi ve doğum öncesi bakımın önemi vurgulanarak, bu gruplara yönelik bilinçlendirme ve erişilebilirlik konularında önlemler alınması önerilmektedir.
CURRENT STATUS AND COMPARISON OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE NOTIFICATION SYSTEMS IN TURKEY AND THE WORLD
Bulaşıcı hastalıklar, yüzyıllardır insan sağlığı üzerinde ciddi tehditler oluşturmuş ve hala devam etmekte olan önemli bir sağlık sorunudur. Bu hastalıkların yarattığı salgınlar ve ölüm oranları, dünya genelinde sağlık sistemlerini etkilemektedir. Dünya’da ve Türkiye’de bulaşıcı hastalıkların erken teşhisi, kontrol altına alınması için çeşitli bildirim sistemleri geliştirilmiştir. Türkiye’de şu anda bildirimi zorunlu bulaşıcı hastalıklar listesinde 81 hastalık bulunmaktadır. Bu hastalıklar A, B, C ve D grubu olarak gruplandırılmıştır. Amerika'da bulaşıcı hastalıkların bildirimi ve izlemi Ulusal Bildirimi Zorunlu Hastalıklar Sürveyans Sistemi'nin (NNDSS) üzerinden yapılmaktadır ve sağlık departmanları, hastane ve laboratuvarlar gibi sağlık hizmeti sunan kuruluşlardan bu hastalıkların bildirimleri yapılabilmektedir. Bu bildirimler, hastalıkların yerel, eyalet ve ulusal düzeyde izlenmesini sağlar. Avrupa'da ise Avrupa Hastalık Önleme ve Kontrol Merkezi (ECDC), üye devletlerden bulaşıcı hastalıklarla ilgili sürveyans verilerini toplar, analiz eder ve yayınlar. Bu veriler, gösterge tabanlı hastalık sürveyansı ve olay tabanlı sürveyans olmak üzere iki temel veri kaynağından gelir. ECDC, üye devletlerden gelen verileri değerlendirir ve AB'nin belirlediği vaka tanımlarına uygunluğunu doğrular.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Readiness to Practice (KArP) of Healthcare Professionals toward disaster management at Ali-Abad teaching hospital (one of the major public hospitals in Afghanistan).
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and Readiness to Practice (KArP) level of healthcare staff at Ali Abad teaching hospital in Kabul Afghanistan toward disaster management and preparedness. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire in March 2023 with some 107 healthcare staff at Ali-Abad teaching hospital. The chi-square test was used to compare the difference in KArP status between the independent categorical variables. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to compare the participants’ scale scores across their socio-demographic characteristics. Results: Ninety-eight (91.58%) healthcare staff accepted to participate in the study. Only 35.7% of health workers had a good level of knowledge about disaster management and preparedness, 53.1% of healthcare personnel had a positive attitude toward disaster management and preparedness, and nearly 54.1% of health workers scored moderate on the Readiness to Practice scale. Medical doctors, healthcare staff with longer work experience, and those with a history of exposure to disasters had significantly higher KArP scores than their comparative groups. Conclusion: A moderate level of attitude among respondents is a good opportunity to adopt our educational policies to increase the level of knowledge and Readiness to Practice among health workers in Afghanistan.
Disaster, Healthcare personnel, Afghanistan, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice
Copyright (c) 2023 Turkey Health Literacy Journal
The Role of Community Pharmacists during the Pandemic in the World and in Our Country
Pharmacists, who are an important part of the health sector and interact intensively with the society within the scope of changing and developing pharmacy services, have turned into professionals who not only fulfill the duty of meeting the prescribed drugs, but also provide consultancy services to patients and closely follow their treatments by applying pharmaceutical care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pharmacists have started to assume new roles and responsibilities, as well as continuing their pharmaceutical care and consultancy services at the local and national level. In the COVID-19 pandemic, which is accompanied by the infodemic and false information spreads faster than the truth, pharmacists have ensured that accurate information is delivered to the public from a reliable source, preventing them from worrying and panicking. In this study, the roles and responsibilities of pharmacists in our country and around the world during the pandemic were examined in the light of current literature, and it was aimed to take attention to the importance of the subject.
COVID-19 Pandemic, Consultant Role of Pharmacist, Pharmaceutical Care, Pharmacist-Patient Communication
Development and Integration of Health Literacy Education with Innovative Methods in Medical Curricula Across Europe-HELEM-EU
The HELEM-EU project is aimed at developing a health literacy education program for medical education curricula, conducting pilot applications and assessment evaluations, and developing a health literacy education program to be used in medical education across Europe. HELEM-EU is a three-year project (1/9/2020- 30/8/2023), funded by the European Union ERASMUS+ Program (Higher Education). Gazi University is the project coordinator. Project partners are the University of Health Sciences, Hacettepe University, Lokman Hekim University, University of Murcia (Spain), Maastricht University (Netherlands), and IIAPHS (Italy). Health literacy means achieving a level of knowledge, personal skills, and confidence to change lifestyles and living conditions, thereby improving personal and social health, and acting accordingly. Therefore, health literacy is more than being able to read brochures and make appointments. Health literacy is critically important to strengthen health communication by improving people's access to health information and their ability to effectively use the information they obtain. In other words, many issues such as what dose of any drug should be taken, understanding the meaning of test results, blood pressure and sugar measurements, being aware of the risks brought by some habits are covered by health literacy. Regardless of the level of development of countries, it is frequently discussed in the literature that health literacy levels are low worldwide. Therefore, many studies are being conducted to improve health literacy. However, applications generally tend to improve the level of health literacy knowledge of the public. Another important point related to health literacy is the approach to health literacy and health communication in health workers and medical faculty students, which is the main topic of our study. Therefore, increasing the approach of doctors and medical students to health literacy and the level of health communication will significantly contribute to the increase in the general health literacy level of the community and the establishment of effective health communication. The most fundamental way to achieve this is to integrate health literacy education into the medical faculty curriculum and to include courses, including practical lessons, to strengthen health communication. The HELEM-EU project is the first project to be carried out in Europe in terms of integrating "health literacy" into medical education. The target groups of the project include medical educators, administrators, non-governmental organizations, and medical students. In-depth interviews conducted in all stakeholder countries, survey studies, Delphi technique, and other needs assessment results have demonstrated the necessity of integrating the issue of health literacy into medical education. Developing a detailed, evidence-based education program in response to this will greatly contribute to the process of training doctors, and therefore to public health.
Öz Çocuk ve çevre sağlığı ilişkilendirilerek yapılan çalışmaların temel amacı çocuklarda ve onların ileriki yaşamlarında ortaya çıkan hastalık, sakatlık ve ölüm oranlarını azaltmaktır. Çocukların sağlığını etkileyebilecek riskler, kirleticiler veya bulaşanlar pek çok ortamda bulunabilir. Çocuk sağlığını etkileyen tehlikeler arasında hava kirliliği, su, sanitasyon ve vektör kaynaklı hastalıklar, kimyasallar, elektronik atıklar ve iklim değişikliği yer almaktadır. En büyük hastalık yükü, düşük ve orta gelirli ülkelerde ve en savunmasız popülasyonlar arasında bulunmaktadır. Çevre sağlık okuryazarlığı çevresel kirleticilerin sağlığı nasıl etkilediğinin anlaşılmasını teşvik etmek için çevre, sağlık ve sosyal bilimlerden içerik ve stratejiler içeren gelişmekte olan bir çalışma alanıdır. Çevre sağlığı ve okuryazarlığı hakkında insanların bilgi düzeyini ölçmek ve geliştirmek için ölçek geliştirilmesi ve kullanılması önemlidir. Çevreyle ilgili bazı ölçekler türkçeye uyarlanmıştır. Bununla birlikte Türkiye’de iç ortam çevresi ve tehlikeleri ile ilgili ölçek bulunmaması dikkat çekmektedir. Bu eksiklik aslında çok önemli tehlikeler barındıran iç ortamların nekadar gözardı edildiğini göstermektedir. Çocukların çevre sağlığı konusunun, akademik dünyanın ve toplumun önde gelen araştırma konularından birisi olması büyük önem taşımaktadır. Çevre, çocukların sağlığını korumanın ve sağlık eşitsizliklerini azaltmanın en temel unsurunu oluşturmaktadır. Çevresel riskleri uygun şekilde azaltmak için sağlık, enerji, ulaşım, sanayi/ticaret, konut ve su sektörleri gibi sektörler arası eylemler gerekli olacaktır.
Anahtar Kelimeler: Çevre, çocuk sağlığı, çevre sağlığı, çevre sağlığı okuryazarlığı.
SCALE DEVELOPMENT STAGES SPECIFIC TO HEALTH LITERACY
This review was written by following the scale development stages specific to health literacy, in order to help academicians who will develop a scale approach systematically, and also to facilitate their studies by providing easier access to information on the subject.
Gençlerin Öğrenim Yaşamı Boyunca Okul İklimi Deneyimleri
Abstract Objective: The aim of the study is to evaluate the university school climate of the students and to investigate the mistreatment from teachers that students are exposed to throughout their education life. Method: The research datas are collected with the Questionnaire for the demographic information of the students, the University Climate Scale and the Educational Violance Experience Questionnaire. Results: The sample of this study included 425 medical faculty students; the average age of the participants is 22,33 (SD:2,25). The 51.8% of participants stated that they had been exposed to trainer mistreatment. The participants were exposed to verbal mistreatment in primary school with the highest 22.4%, were exposed to emotional mistreatment in high school with the highest 19.5%, were exposed to emotional mistreatment with the highest 26.6 at the university. The 34.1% of participants evaluated the university climate as positive (open), while 28.5% evaluated the university climate as negative (closed). While 48,8% of the participants who evaluated the university climate as negative stated that they were exposed to mistreatment. It is fact that there is a significant relationship between the participants who stated that they were exposed to mistreatment and the more negative (closed) evaluation of the university climate (p<.05). Conclusion: One of every two participants participating in our study declared that they were exposed to trainer mistreatment throughout their education life. Students who were exposed to mistreatment interpreted the university climate more negatively. Key Words: Mistreatment, trainer violance, violance, school climate.
Mistreatment, trainer violance, violance, school climate.
Determination of Occupational Safety Culture and Job Satisfaction Levels of Factory Employees
The automotive sector has wide-ranging risks in terms of occupational safety. Workers in the vehicle maintenance and repair business in this sector may be exposed to serious physical and chemical hazards such as getting their hands and feet stuck between moving machine parts, hitting falling objects, fire and explosion. In this context, it is essential to establish and maintain a culture of occupational safety. Developing a culture of occupational safety, creating a positive and safe environment in the workplace is effective both in increasing job satisfaction and in reducing occupational accidents. Aim of the study was to determine the occupational safety culture and job satisfaction levels of factory employees and their relationship with effective factors. The study is descriptive. The data were collected by socio-demographic characteristics form and Occupational Safety Culture Scale and Minnesota Job Satisfaction Scale. 154 personnel participated in the study and the participation rate is 70%.The data were evaluated in SPSS 20.00 Package program. The mean age of the participants is 42.34±7.89. The youngest age to start work was 8. A significant positive correlation was found between “Management's Security Commitment” and “Safety Behaviors” (p<0.05, r:0.520). 52% of the employees witnessed a work accident. They stated that the most common cause of occupational accident was “indifference and inattention (58.4%).There was no significant difference between the job satisfaction of the employees and the status of having and witnessing a work accident (p> 0.005). As the age of the employees increased, their level of knowledge on risk analysis increased.The safety perceptions of single ones, the job satisfaction of youngs and university graduates were high. The more the management's commitment to occupational safety practices, the higher the safe behavior of the employees.According to this, the importance of occupational safety culture should be adopted by all employees and managers, creating a positive communication environment in the workplace by following international practices and increasing job satisfaction. It is recommended to carry out activities to increase