International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

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12 pages, 1755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of COVID-19 Case Demographics and Disease Outcomes in Gary, Indiana

by Maryam Sabir, Yazan Al-Tarshan, Cameron Snapp, Martin Brown, Roland Walker, Amy Han and Tatiana Kostrominova

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(18), 6729; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20186729 - 07 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1277

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the prevalence of existing health disparities in Black communities in the U.S. The current study evaluates COVID-19 data collected in Gary, Indiana, from June 2020 to June 2021. We hypothesized that the number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, [...] Read more.

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic further exposed the prevalence of existing health disparities in Black communities in the U.S. The current study evaluates COVID-19 data collected in Gary, Indiana, from June 2020 to June 2021. We hypothesized that the number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths were influenced by race and income. Methods: In collaboration with the Gary Health Department (GHD), we analyzed demographic data on COVID-19-positive cases. Results: Compared to Gary’s non-Black population, age- and population-adjusted rates of hospitalizations and deaths in the Black population were 3-fold (p < 0.0001) and 2-fold (p < 0.05) higher, respectively. This is despite a higher infection rate (p < 0.0001) in the non-Black population. The median household income of a zip code was negatively correlated with COVID-19 hospitalizations (R² = 0.6345, p = 0.03), but did not correlate with infections and deaths. Conclusions: The current study demonstrates clear health disparities of income and race in the context of COVID-19-related infections and outcomes in the city of Gary. Indiana University School of Medicine Northwest and GHD officials can collaborate to utilize these data for the reallocation of resources and health education efforts in Gary’s highly populated, low-income, and predominantly Black neighborhoods. It should also prompt further investigation into national health resource allocation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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14 pages, 2011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Variation in COVID-19 Mortality in New York City and Its Association with Neighborhood Race, Ethnicity, and Nativity Status

by Samantha Friedman, Tabassum Z. Insaf, Temilayo Adeyeye and Jin-Wook Lee

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(17), 6702; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20176702 - 01 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1147

Abstract

We examined the association between variation in COVID-19 deaths and spatial differences in the racial, ethnic, and nativity-status composition of New York City neighborhoods, which has received little scholarly attention. Using COVID-19 mortality data (through 31 May 2021) and socioeconomic and demographic data [...] Read more.

We examined the association between variation in COVID-19 deaths and spatial differences in the racial, ethnic, and nativity-status composition of New York City neighborhoods, which has received little scholarly attention. Using COVID-19 mortality data (through 31 May 2021) and socioeconomic and demographic data from the American Community Survey at the Zip Code Tabulation Area level as well as United-Hospital-Fund-level neighborhood data from the Community Health Survey of the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, we employed multivariable Poisson generalized estimating equation models and assessed the association between COVID-19 mortality, racial/ethnic/nativity-status composition, and other ecological factors. Our results showed an association between neighborhood-level racial and ethnic composition and COVID-19 mortality rates that is contingent upon the neighborhood-level nativity-status composition. After multivariable adjustment, ZCTAs with large shares of native-born Blacks and foreign-born Hispanics and Asians were more likely to have higher COVID-19 mortality rates than areas with large shares of native-born Whites. Areas with more older adults and essential workers, higher levels of household crowding, and population with diabetes were also at high risk. Small-area analyses of COVID-19 mortality can inform health policy responses to neighborhood inequalities on the basis of race, ethnicity, and immigration status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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11 pages, 942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 Lockdowns on Persons with Non-Communicable Diseases in Trinidad and Tobago

by Sandra D. Reid, Shastri Motilal, Shalini Pooransingh, Godfrey St. Bernard and Marsha A. Ivey

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(16), 6543; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20166543 - 08 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1475

Abstract

Persons with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were identified as particularly at risk of severe morbidity and mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is written about the impact of COVID-19 on this sub-population in the Caribbean, where the prevalence of NCDs is disproportionately high. [...] Read more.

Persons with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were identified as particularly at risk of severe morbidity and mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic. Little is written about the impact of COVID-19 on this sub-population in the Caribbean, where the prevalence of NCDs is disproportionately high. This study aimed to ascertain COVID-related concerns, and the mental health impact of the pandemic among persons with and without NCDs in Trinidad and Tobago, during the acute period of COVID-19 lockdowns early in the pandemic. An anonymous online survey collected cross-sectional data from a convenience sample nationwide. Of 1287 respondents, 219 self-identified as having an NCD. Findings suggest that the pandemic was experienced unequally by persons with NCDs, who were more likely to be concerned about health and wellbeing and to report health inequalities—unemployment, social isolation and negative effects of government restrictions. Compared to those without NCDs, they were more likely to increase use of marijuana during the lockdown period, and to report severe anxiety/depression that can result in exacerbation of NCDs. Interventions for persons with NCDs must address the mental health consequences of any pandemic, including increased drug use, and also address social inequalities to reduce sustained post-pandemic mental health impact and negative health outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

15 pages, 665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socio-Economic Factors Associated with Ethnic Disparities in SARS-CoV-2 Infection and Hospitalization

by Alessio Gili, Marta Caminiti, Chiara Lupi, Salvatore Zichichi, Ilaria Minicucci, Patrizio Pezzotti, Chiara Primieri, Carla Bietta and Fabrizio Stracci

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(15), 6521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20156521 - 04 Aug 2023

Viewed by 1454

Abstract

Background: There is evidence that non-Italians presented higher incidence of infection and worse health outcomes if compared to native populations in the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the study was to compare Italian- and non-Italian-born health outcomes, accounting for socio-economic levels. Methods: We [...] Read more.

Background: There is evidence that non-Italians presented higher incidence of infection and worse health outcomes if compared to native populations in the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the study was to compare Italian- and non-Italian-born health outcomes, accounting for socio-economic levels. Methods: We analyzed data relative to 906,463 people in Umbria (Italy) from 21 February 2020 to 31 May 2021. We considered the National Deprivation Index, the Urban–Rural Municipalities Index and the Human Development Index (HDI) of the country of birth. We used a multilevel logistic regression model to explore the influence of these factors on SARS-CoV-2 infection and hospitalization rates. Diagnosis in the 48 h preceding admission was an indicator of late diagnosis among hospitalized cases. Results: Overall, 54,448 persons tested positive (6%), and 9.7% of them were hospitalized. The risk of hospital admission was higher among non-Italians and was inversely related to the HDI of the country of birth. A diagnosis within 48 h before hospitalization was more frequent among non-Italians and correlated to the HDI level. Conclusions: COVID-19 had unequal health outcomes among the population in Umbria. Reduced access to primary care services in the non-Italian group could explain our findings. Policies on immigrants' access to primary healthcare need to be improved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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8 pages, 562 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

How Do COVID-19 Vaccine Policies Affect the Young Working Class in the Philippines?

by Rey Hikaru Y. Estoce, Olivia M. Y. Ngan and Pacifico Eric E. Calderon

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(3), 2593; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20032593 - 31 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1873

Abstract

Dubbed the “inequality virus”, coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has unveiled and magnified many of the global society’s long-standing inequalities and health inequities. This work brings together the phenomena of increased inequality and health inequities felt by the poor and young working class of the [...] Read more.

Dubbed the “inequality virus”, coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has unveiled and magnified many of the global society’s long-standing inequalities and health inequities. This work brings together the phenomena of increased inequality and health inequities felt by the poor and young working class of the Philippines and how they interact negatively with existing vaccine policies. The poor and the young were more likely to have experienced employment disruptions with limited access to technologies that allowed for teleworking. Informal economy workers suffered from diminished labor protection and draconian lockdowns. Disadvantaged areas persistently dealt with limited health resources, and the working class was disproportionately vulnerable to COVID-19 infection. Utilitarian vaccine policies such as mandatory vaccination and the prioritization scheme negatively interacted with these COVID-induced inequalities and health inequities. While the young working class was more likely to be unemployed, mandatory vaccine policy required that they get vaccinated before seeking re-employment. However, the prioritization scheme adopted by the government failed to target them as a priority. This left them in a vulnerable state of prolonged unemployment while on standby for better supply and improved infrastructure for vaccine rollout. Future prospects in terms of economic recovery and health equity will be affected by issues such as potential increased taxation, the rapidly digitalizing labor market that is evolving to favor highly-skilled workers, and the staging of universal healthcare in the country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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16 pages, 347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Black Communities in Canada

by Janet Kemei, Mia Tulli, Adedoyin Olanlesi-Aliu, Modupe Tunde-Byass and Bukola Salami

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(2), 1580; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20021580 - 15 Jan 2023

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3036

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in differential impacts on the Black communities in Canada and has unmasked existing race-related health inequities. The purpose of this study was to illuminate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black people in Canada. Historically, social inequalities [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in differential impacts on the Black communities in Canada and has unmasked existing race-related health inequities. The purpose of this study was to illuminate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black people in Canada. Historically, social inequalities have determined the impacts of pandemics on the population, and in the case of the COVID-19 pandemic, disproportionate infections and mortalities have become evident among racialized communities in Canada. This qualitative descriptive study utilized an intersectionality framework. We invited Black stakeholders across Canada to participate in semi-structured interviews to deepen our knowledge of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on Black communities in Canada. A total of 30 interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using content analysis. Our findings fell into three categories: (1) increased vulnerability to COVID-19 disease, (2) mental impacts, and (3) addressing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings show the underlying systemic inequities in Canada and systemic racism exacerbated health inequities among the Black communities and undermined interventions by public health agencies to curb the spread of COVID-19 and associated impacts on Black and other racialized communities. The paper concludes by identifying critical areas for future intervention in policy and practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

8 pages, 1038 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of Cumulative COVID-19 Mortality Trends Associated with Ethnic-Racial Composition, Income Inequality, and Party Inclination among US Counties

by Tim F. Liao

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 15803; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315803 - 28 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1516

Abstract

This research analyzes the association between cumulative COVID-19 mortality and ethnic-racial composition, income inequality, and political party inclination across counties in the United States. The study extends prior research by taking a long view—examining cumulative mortality burdens over the first 900 days of [...] Read more.

This research analyzes the association between cumulative COVID-19 mortality and ethnic-racial composition, income inequality, and political party inclination across counties in the United States. The study extends prior research by taking a long view—examining cumulative mortality burdens over the first 900 days of the COVID-19 pandemic at five time points (via negative binomial models) and as trajectories of cumulative mortality trends (via growth curve models). The analysis shows that counties with a higher Republican vote share display a higher cumulative mortality, especially over longer periods of the pandemic. It also demonstrates that counties with a higher composition of ethnic-racial minorities, especially Blacks, bear a much higher cumulative mortality burden, and such an elevated burden would be even higher when a county has a higher level of income inequality. For counties with a higher proportion of Hispanic population, while the burden is lower than that for counties with a higher proportion of Blacks, the cumulative COVID-19 mortality burden still is elevated and compounded by income inequality, at any given time point during the pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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16 pages, 348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Associated Societal Restrictions on People Experiencing Homelessness (PEH): A Qualitative Interview Study with PEH and Service Providers in the UK

by Jo Dawes, Tom May, Daisy Fancourt and Alexandra Burton

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(23), 15526; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192315526 - 23 Nov 2022

Viewed by 1671

Abstract

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including changes to accommodation availability, societal restrictions impacting access to essentials like food, and services moving to online and remote access. This in-depth qualitative research aims to add to the existing, but [...] Read more.

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) faced unique challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including changes to accommodation availability, societal restrictions impacting access to essentials like food, and services moving to online and remote access. This in-depth qualitative research aims to add to the existing, but limited research exploring how the pandemic affected PEH. 33 semi-structured qualitative interviews (22 with PEH during the pandemic and 11 with homelessness sector service providers) were undertaken in the United Kingdom between April 2021 and January 2022. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. To ensure consistency of coding, 10% of interviews were coded by two researchers. The PEH sample was 50% female, aged 24–59 years, 59% white British, and included people who had lived in hostels/hotels, with friends/family, and on the streets during the COVID-19 pandemic. Providers came from varied services, including support charities, housing, and addiction services. Five key themes were identified: (i) the understanding of and adherence to public health guidance and restrictions; (ii) the experience of people accommodated by the ‘Everyone In’ initiative; (iii) the impact of social distancing guidelines on PEH experiences in public spaces; (iv) the importance of social support and connections to others; and (v) how homelessness services adapted their provision. Policy makers and public health communicators must learn from PEH to maximize the effectiveness of future public health strategies. Housing providers and support services should recognize the implications of imposing a lack of choice on people who need accommodation during a public health emergency. The loss of usual support for PEH triggered a loss of ability to rely on usual ‘survival strategies’, which negatively influenced their health. This research highlights successes and difficulties in supporting PEH during the COVID-19 pandemic and informs planning for similar public health events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

20 pages, 3857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Socioeconomic-Related Inequalities in COVID-19 Vulnerability in South Africa

by Muna Shifa, David Gordon, Murray Leibbrandt and Mary Zhang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(17), 10480; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191710480 - 23 Aug 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2469

Abstract

Individuals’ vulnerability to the risk of COVID-19 infection varies due to their health, socioeconomic, and living circumstances, which also affect the effectiveness of implementing non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs). In this study, we analysed socioeconomic-related inequalities in COVID-19 vulnerability using data from the nationally representative [...] Read more.

Individuals’ vulnerability to the risk of COVID-19 infection varies due to their health, socioeconomic, and living circumstances, which also affect the effectiveness of implementing non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs). In this study, we analysed socioeconomic-related inequalities in COVID-19 vulnerability using data from the nationally representative South African General Household Survey 2019. We developed a COVID-19 vulnerability index, which includes health and social risk factors for COVID-19 exposure and susceptibility. The concentration curve and concentration index were used to measure socioeconomic-related inequalities in COVID-19 vulnerability. Recentred influence function regression was then utilised to decompose factors that explain the socioeconomic-related inequalities in COVID-19 vulnerability. The concentration index estimates were all negative and highly significant (p < 0.01), indicating that vulnerability to COVID-19 was more concentrated among the poor. According to the decomposition analysis, higher income and education significantly (p < 0.01) positively impacted lowering socioeconomic-related COVID-19 vulnerability. Living in an urban region, being Black, and old all had significant (p < 0.01) positive impacts on increasing socioeconomic-related COVID-19 vulnerability. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of socially defined COVID-19-vulnerable populations in South Africa and the implications for future pandemic preparedness plans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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14 pages, 365 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among Female Foreign Domestic Workers in Hong Kong: A Cross-Sectional Quantitative Survey

by Timothy S. Sumerlin, Jean H. Kim, Zixin Wang, Alvin Yik-Kiu Hui and Roger Y. Chung

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(10), 5945; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19105945 - 13 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1624

Abstract

Globally, minority groups and non-citizens may not be sufficiently included in the COVID-19 vaccine coverage. This study seeks to understand determinants of vaccine uptake among female foreign domestic workers (FDWs) in Hong Kong. We conducted a cross-sectional study of female FDWs (n [...] Read more.

Globally, minority groups and non-citizens may not be sufficiently included in the COVID-19 vaccine coverage. This study seeks to understand determinants of vaccine uptake among female foreign domestic workers (FDWs) in Hong Kong. We conducted a cross-sectional study of female FDWs (n = 581) from June to August 2021. Respondents completed an online survey obtaining sociodemographic, employment, and health status information. Based upon the socio-ecological model, we obtained individual, interpersonal, and socio-structural factors that may be associated with COVID-19 vaccine uptake. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to examine factors associated with having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. At the individual level, agreeing that taking COVID-19 vaccines can contribute to COVID-19 control in Hong Kong (OR 6.11, 95% CI 2.27–16.43) was associated with increased vaccine uptake, while being worried of severe side-effects from vaccination (OR 0.29, 95% CI 0.16–0.55) was associated with decreased uptake. At the interpersonal level, those being encouraged by their employer (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.06–3.95) and family members (OR 2.27, 95% CI 1.17–4.38) were more likely to be vaccinated, while at the socio-structural level, believing vaccination would violate religious beliefs (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.06–0.65) was associated with decreased uptake. The government can formulate a multi-level approach according to our findings to target the remaining unvaccinated FDW population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

16 pages, 549 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Discrimination Experiences during COVID-19 among a National, Multi-Lingual, Community-Based Sample of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders: COMPASS Findings

by Van M. Ta Park, Marcelle M. Dougan, Oanh L. Meyer, Bora Nam, Marian Tzuang, Linda G. Park, Quyen Vuong, Joon Bang and Janice Y. Tsoh

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(2), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19020924 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4728

Abstract

Reports of escalated discrimination among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) due to COVID-19 are alarming, making this a public health priority. However, there are limited empirical studies on the scope and impact of COVID-19-related discrimination among AAPIs. Using the COVID-19 Effects on [...] Read more.

Reports of escalated discrimination among Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) due to COVID-19 are alarming, making this a public health priority. However, there are limited empirical studies on the scope and impact of COVID-19-related discrimination among AAPIs. Using the COVID-19 Effects on the Mental and Physical Health of AAPI Survey Study (COMPASS) data (N = 4971; survey period: October 2020–February 2021), which is a U.S.-wide multi-lingual survey, we examined the prevalence of, and factors associated with discrimination experiences attributable to being an AAPI during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, 60.7% reported experiencing discrimination; the group prevalence ranged from 80.0% (Hmong) to 40.5% (Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders). Multivariable logistic regression models revealed that COVID-19-related factors were associated with many discrimination experiences: having a shelter-in-place order of ≥1 month, living in areas with perceived similar/higher COVID-19 severity, and negative impact in family income/employment due to COVID-19. Additionally, being Asian American (versus Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders), females, non-heterosexuals, younger, more severe effect on family income, living in the non-West, and poorer health were significantly correlated with discrimination experiences. Findings may assist in formulating anti-AAPI-discrimination policies and programs at the local, state, and federal levels. Culturally appropriate programs and policies to combat this are urgently needed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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Review

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14 pages, 1263 KiB

Open AccessReview

Food Insecurity among International Migrants during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review

by Doua Ahmed, Pierina Benavente and Esperanza Diaz

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075273 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1944

Abstract

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and the measures imposed to control it have impacted food security globally, particularly among vulnerable populations. Food insecurity, in turn, has repercussions on health, exacerbating pre-existing inequalities. This scoping review maps the literature describing associations between the COVID-19 pandemic and [...] Read more.

The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus and the measures imposed to control it have impacted food security globally, particularly among vulnerable populations. Food insecurity, in turn, has repercussions on health, exacerbating pre-existing inequalities. This scoping review maps the literature describing associations between the COVID-19 pandemic and food insecurity among migrants, with a particular view toward health. A total of 909 papers were extracted through four electronic databases, and 46 studies were included. The migrant populations described originated mainly from Latin America (11/46) and were located in North America (21/46). Most studies included refugees and asylum seekers (20/46). The main challenges described were financial hardship (28/46), the effect of migrants’ documentation status on using public food aid (13/46), and the suspension of or reduction in humanitarian assistance due to the economic recession (7/46). The impact of food insecurity on migrants’ mental and physical health was described in 26 of the 46 studies. Authorities in all destination countries should focus their attention and efforts into ensuring nutrition security for migrants in a holistic way, including their economic and legal integration, to be better prepared for health crises in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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40 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessReview

Unintended Consequences of COVID-19 Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) for Population Health and Health Inequalities

by Coilín ÓhAiseadha, Gerry A. Quinn, Ronan Connolly, Awwad Wilson, Michael Connolly, Willie Soon and Paul Hynds

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(7), 5223; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20075223 - 23 Mar 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4701

Abstract

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, governments around the world have adopted an array of measures intended to control the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). NPIs are public health interventions that do [...] Read more.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020, governments around the world have adopted an array of measures intended to control the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, using both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs). NPIs are public health interventions that do not rely on vaccines or medicines and include policies such as lockdowns, stay-at-home orders, school closures, and travel restrictions. Although the intention was to slow viral transmission, emerging research indicates that these NPIs have also had unintended consequences for other aspects of public health. Hence, we conducted a narrative review of studies investigating these unintended consequences of NPIs, with a particular emphasis on mental health and on lifestyle risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCD): physical activity (PA), overweight and obesity, alcohol consumption, and tobacco smoking. We reviewed the scientific literature using combinations of search terms such as ‘COVID-19′, ‘pandemic’, ‘lockdowns’, ‘mental health’, ‘physical activity’, and ‘obesity’. NPIs were found to have considerable adverse consequences for mental health, physical activity, and overweight and obesity. The impacts on alcohol and tobacco consumption varied greatly within and between studies. The variability in consequences for different groups implies increased health inequalities by age, sex/gender, socioeconomic status, pre-existing lifestyle, and place of residence. In conclusion, a proper assessment of the use of NPIs in attempts to control the spread of the pandemic should be weighed against the potential adverse impacts on other aspects of public health. Our findings should also be of relevance for future pandemic preparedness and pandemic response teams. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

16 pages, 597 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improving COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake among Black Populations: A Systematic Review of Strategies

by Morolake Adeagbo, Mary Olukotun, Salwa Musa, Dominic Alaazi, Upton Allen, Andre M. N. Renzaho, Ato Sekyi-Otu and Bukola Salami

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11971; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911971 - 22 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2492

Abstract

Given the growing body of evidence on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black populations, the aim of this systematic review was to identify the interventions and strategies used to improve COVID-19 vaccine confidence and uptake among Black populations globally. To identify relevant studies, we [...] Read more.

Given the growing body of evidence on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black populations, the aim of this systematic review was to identify the interventions and strategies used to improve COVID-19 vaccine confidence and uptake among Black populations globally. To identify relevant studies, we conducted a systematic review of the literature based on a systematic search of 10 electronic databases: MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Scopus, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Sociological Abstracts, Dissertations and Theses Global, and SocINDEX. We screened a total of 1728 records and included 14 peer-reviewed interventional studies that were conducted to address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Black populations. A critical appraisal of the included studies was performed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. The intervention strategies for increasing COVID-19 vaccine uptake were synthesized into three major categories: communication and information-based interventions, mandate-based interventions, and incentive-based interventions. Interventions that incorporated communication, community engagement, and culturally inclusive resources significantly improved vaccine uptake among Black populations, while incentive- and mandate-based interventions had less impact. Overall, this systematic review revealed that consideration of the sociocultural, historical, and political contexts of Black populations is important, but tailored interventions that integrate culture-affirming strategies are more likely to decrease COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and increase uptake among Black populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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12 pages, 493 KiB

Open AccessReview

Changes in Racial/Ethnic Disparities in Opioid-Related Outcomes in Urban Areas during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Rapid Review of the Literature

by Kara M. Moran, Pricila H. Mullachery, Stephen Lankenau and Usama Bilal

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9283; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159283 - 29 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1723

Abstract

Opioid use disorders (OUDs) are increasingly common among minoritized populations, who have historically experienced limited access to healthcare, a situation that may have worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a structured keyword search in Pubmed, we reviewed the literature to synthesize the evidence [...] Read more.

Opioid use disorders (OUDs) are increasingly common among minoritized populations, who have historically experienced limited access to healthcare, a situation that may have worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic. Using a structured keyword search in Pubmed, we reviewed the literature to synthesize the evidence on changes in racial/ethnic disparities in OUD-related outcomes in urban areas during the COVID-19 pandemic in the US. Nine articles were included in the final analysis. Six found increases in OUD-related outcomes during the pandemic, with four showing a widening of disparities. Results also point to the worsening of opioid outcomes among Black and Latinx individuals related to shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders. Studies examining the use of telehealth and access to OUD treatment showed that minoritized groups have benefited from telehealth programs. The limited number of studies in a small number of jurisdictions indicate a gap in research examining the intersection between COVID-19 and OUD-related outcomes with a focus on disparities. More research is needed to understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and related policies on OUD outcomes among racial/ethnic minoritized groups, including examining the impact of service disruptions on vulnerable groups with OUD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic for Health Inequalities)

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