Medical Sciences Forum

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Workplace Environment and Burnout in Public Health Workforce Inspection Services in Greece during the COVID-19 Pandemic

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Ioannis Adamopoulos

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Niki Syrou

Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 19(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023019004 - 15 May 2023

Abstract

Evidence regarding the strong links between emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment, depersonalization, total occupational burnout and workplace environment, and their consequences for the general well-being of employees in public health inspection workforce services, is limited. The aim of this study was to report the [...] Read more.

Evidence regarding the strong links between emotional exhaustion, personal accomplishment, depersonalization, total occupational burnout and workplace environment, and their consequences for the general well-being of employees in public health inspection workforce services, is limited. The aim of this study was to report the burnout of the public health workforce in Greece and investigate possible relationships with the workplace environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a quantitative, cross-sectional, nationwide research study in Greece, conducted in the second quarter of 2021. An online survey was conducted. The response rate was 27%. Burnout was measured using the Maslach Burnout Inventory Questionnaire; 19.46% of participants reported low burnout levels, 37.84% of participants reported medium burnout levels, and 42.70% reported high (above average) burnout levels. The total burnout score of rural environments was higher compared to all other groups (χ² = 16.017), (β = 0.455), p < 0.001. Medium levels of emotional exhaustion were reported. Depersonalization scores were low. The personal accomplishment score was higher in rural environments compared to all other groups (χ² = 26.417). The depersonalization score was higher in semi-urban environments compared to all other groups (χ² = 6.188). The findings indicate that burnout has proven to be an issue. This study contributes to the limited evidence supporting links associations and correlations between burnout and workplace environment and adds new information regarding occupational health and safety factors for workplace environment, which could be exploited to advance the quality of public health services provision during the COVID-19 pandemic in Greece. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International One Health Conference)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Growing Problem: Incidence of Cancer in Foreign Citizens Residing in the Provinces of Catania, Messina, Siracusa, and Enna in 2003–2017

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Antonietta Alfia Maria Torrisi

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Alessia Anna Di Prima

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Antonello Marras

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Margherita Ferrante

Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 19(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023019003 - 15 May 2023

Abstract

Introduction: The “migrant” term indicates a resident born in a country other than the host country. Resident foreigners made up 8.4% of the total Italian population in 2020. The Sicilian trend reflects the national one, with 190,974 resident foreigners as of 1th January [...] Read more.

Introduction: The “migrant” term indicates a resident born in a country other than the host country. Resident foreigners made up 8.4% of the total Italian population in 2020. The Sicilian trend reflects the national one, with 190,974 resident foreigners as of 1th January 2020. The aim of this study was to identify the presence of tumors in foreign patients residing in the RTI’s provinces of interest in 2003–2017 and to analyze the clinical-biological variables. Materials and Methods: We analyzed 3541 foreign patients with tumors (out of a total of 160,912 patients) residing in the RTI’s provinces of interest in 2003–2017. Foreign patients were identified by tax code. Tumors are described ((number and percentage). Results: Of the 3541 foreign patients, 36% were male and 64% were female. They resided in the provinces of Catania (42.6%), Messina (29.9%), Siracusa (20.7%), and Enna (6.6%). They came from Europe (57%), Africa (22.4%), the Americas (12.03%), Asia (5.08%), and Oceania (1.80%); 0.3% were stateless. The average age was 58 for males and 54.4 for females. The number of tumors (excluding non-melanoma skin tumors) was 3715. Sixty-two males and 98 females had one or more multiple tumors. In foreign females, the three most common tumors were breast (28%), thyroid (9%), and cervical (6%) tumors. Most breast cancers were diagnosed as stage T1 (35%) or T2 (26%). In foreign males, the three most common tumors were lung (13%), bladder (12%), and prostate (11%) tumors. Conclusions: The growing presence of foreign citizens in the provinces studied calls for more attention on oncology-related problems and more careful surveillance of changes in incidence and mortality by the RTI. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International One Health Conference)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

Occupational Hazards Associated with the Quality and Training Needs of Public Health Inspectors in Greece

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Ioannis Adamopoulos

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Niki Syrou

Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 19(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023019002 - 15 May 2023

Abstract

In terms of evidence of the strong links between occupational risks, training needs, and quality, research on the occupational risks and their consequences to the general wellbeing of public health inspectors has been very limited, despite the fact that the nature of the [...] Read more.

In terms of evidence of the strong links between occupational risks, training needs, and quality, research on the occupational risks and their consequences to the general wellbeing of public health inspectors has been very limited, despite the fact that the nature of the work presents a range of threats to physical and psychological health. The aim of this study was to report the risks presented to public health inspectors (PHIs’) and to investigate their possible relationships with training needs. The study was a cross-sectional, nationwide investigation in Greece, conducted in one phase during the third quarter of 2021. For data collection, an online survey was created, and the web link was distributed to respondents by email. A number of participants were contacted, providing N = 185 responses, which accounted for 27% (185/684) of the population under study. Job risks were measured using a novel instrument, classification, a checklist for risk assessment, and an instrument was developed for measuring training needs and training quality. The findings indicated that 87% of participants provided high ratings in response to psychosocial risks and ergonomic risks, followed by 78% for organizational risks and 74% for biological risks. Physical risks and chemical risks were 55% and 56%, respectively. For organizational risks (β = −0.282, p = 0.001) and perceived training quality (β = 0.195, p = 0.002), 65.41% reported high training requirements. PHIs face a variety of job risks, these findings were among the first to address the occupational health and safety of PHIs worldwide. Adding new information to PHI occupational health and safety could be used to advance the quality of public health services provision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International One Health Conference)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

Standard Operating Procedure for the Analysis of Microplastics in Larval Fish Diets

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Carol Maione

Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 19(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023019001 - 09 May 2023

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) pollution has increasingly exposed the pelagic biota to physical harm. The small size of micro-particles makes them more suitable for passive ingestion by a wide variety of organisms with serious effects on growth rates, respiration and vital functions, bioaccumulation of pollutants, [...] Read more.

Microplastics (MPs) pollution has increasingly exposed the pelagic biota to physical harm. The small size of micro-particles makes them more suitable for passive ingestion by a wide variety of organisms with serious effects on growth rates, respiration and vital functions, bioaccumulation of pollutants, and, ultimately, species survival. Nevertheless, our knowledge of plastic intake in nursery habitats is still very limited. When encounters with MPs occur at the larval stage, it is suggested that fish can develop altered feeding behaviors with cascading effects on the entire food web. This study provides a step-by-step protocol to identify and enumerate polymer particles found in fish diets. The procedure is intended for the analysis of larval and juvenile fish populations with a developed digestive tract. It includes guiding questions for research design, a list of supplies and reagents to extract and mount the fish diets on microscope slides for semi-permanent conservation, the protocol for microscopic and statistical analysis, and the interpretation of the results. We suggest that the gut content could be used to assess (i) the bioavailability of polymers in water systems, (ii) the incidence of an encounter between larval fish and MPs, and (iii) the possible alternations in fish’ feeding behaviors as soon as they leave their parental stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of International One Health Conference)

Open AccessEditorial

Introduction to the ESPAUR Webinar and Report 2021–2022: Key Findings and Stakeholder Engagement

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015018 - 08 May 2023

Abstract

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we saw significant decreases in the incidence of bloodstream infections (BSIs), antibiotic-resistant infections, and the burden of resistant infections. The reasons for this are complex and multifactorial, but likely, at least in part, due to changes in healthcare [...] Read more.

During the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, we saw significant decreases in the incidence of bloodstream infections (BSIs), antibiotic-resistant infections, and the burden of resistant infections. The reasons for this are complex and multifactorial, but likely, at least in part, due to changes in healthcare delivery and healthcare seeking behavior. As healthcare systems return to pre-pandemic ways of working, now is a pivotal moment to ensure focus remains on what is often referred to as the ‘silent pandemic’: antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The ninth English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilization and Resistance (ESPAUR) report provides an overview of the national data on antibiotic prescribing and resistance, antimicrobial stewardship implementation, and awareness activities. The active contribution from and collaboration with the ESPAUR oversight group and the engagement of stakeholder organizations, including the devolved administrations, are also reported. Findings from the ESPAUR report were presented at a webinar on 23 November 2022. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

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Open AccessAbstract

Food Labels: Trends in Use of Nutrition and Health Claims on New Zealand Foods and Beverages

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Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 18(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023018031 - 06 Apr 2023

Abstract

Nutrition and health claims have been regulated by Standard 1.2.7 of the Food Standards Code since 2016. Standard 1.2.7 was introduced in 2013, with a three-year transition period. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Standard 1.2.7 by a) identifying the number [...] Read more.

Nutrition and health claims have been regulated by Standard 1.2.7 of the Food Standards Code since 2016. Standard 1.2.7 was introduced in 2013, with a three-year transition period. This study aims to evaluate the impact of Standard 1.2.7 by a) identifying the number of nutrition and health claims across 16 product categories, and b) identifying changes in the use of claims since the introduction of the Standard by comparing the present findings against those of previous similar surveys (in 2014/15 and 2016/7). Packaged food labels (700) were randomly selected from 16 prespecified categories in GS1 NZ’s On Pack label database, representative of foods and beverages available in New Zealand retail. Labels were assessed for the presence of nutrition and health claims, and against regulations. A total of 44% of products had at least one nutrition content claim (NCC) or general level health claim (GLHC). Since 2016/17, the proportion of products carrying claims increased among the categories “meat and meat products”, “dairy and dairy products” and “eggs”. Among the remaining 13 categories, the proportion of claims decreased or remained the same. NCCs appeared in 43% of products, but among categories this ranged from 10% (alcohol) to 70% (special-purpose foods). The three most common types of NCCs (in descending order) were about vitamins (mostly vitamin C and B vitamins), “gluten free” and minerals (mostly iron and calcium). In comparison with 2016/17, NCCs regarding vitamins, minerals, sugar and protein were more common, while NCCs for dietary fibre, sodium and fat (including cholesterol) were less common. “Gluten free claims” remain consistently popular. Individual use of GLHCs has increased since 2016/17 (6% compared with 3%), with the highest numbers in “special purpose foods” (40%). Further analysis of these survey data will reveal the proportion of claims that meet the regulatory requirements and identify areas requiring further guidance. Full article

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

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Despena Andrioti Bygvraa

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Sebastian Crespi

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Miguel Dávila Cornejo

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Lieselotte De Marez

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Christos Hadjichristodoulou

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Carmen Varela Martínez

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Thijs Veenstra

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Thomas Von Muenster

Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 13(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022013034 - 04 Apr 2023

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Medical Sciences Forum, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of Public Health Congress on Maritime Transport and Ports 2022: Sailing to the Post-COVID-19 Era)

Open AccessAbstract

Maternal Plasma Selenium and the Occurrence of Infection Symptoms among Women at Six and Twelve Months Postpartum

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Ying Jin

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Jane Coad

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Louise Brough

Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 18(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023018030 - 03 Apr 2023

Abstract

Selenium is essential for human health because it produces selenoproteins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles. Recently published data have suggested high selenium status (high hair selenium concentration) improved outcomes in patients with COVID-19 infections. Our objective was to investigate the occurrence of [...] Read more.

Selenium is essential for human health because it produces selenoproteins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles. Recently published data have suggested high selenium status (high hair selenium concentration) improved outcomes in patients with COVID-19 infections. Our objective was to investigate the occurrence of infectious symptoms and selenium status among postpartum women. This is a secondary analysis of data collected in the Mother and Infant Nutrition Investigation—an observational, longitudinal cohort study spanning the first postpartum year of mother and infant pairs (n = 87) in Palmerston North, New Zealand. Plasma selenium was measured in women at six months postpartum (6MPP), and the validated Carr Infection Symptom Checklist (CISC) measured the type and frequency of infection symptoms experienced at 6MPP and twelve months postpartum (12MPP). The checklist contains 30 symptoms of infection; each symptom is scored from 0 (no symptoms) to 4 (severe symptoms), thus the possible total score ranges from zero to 120. The data were expressed as the median (q25, q75). The median maternal plasma selenium was 105.8 (95.6, 115.3) µg/L, with 41% of women meeting the criteria for the maximum expression of selenoprotein P (>110 µg/L). The median CISC scores were 12 (8, 18) at 6MPP and 13 (8, 21) at 12MPP, which were weakly correlated (r = 0.363, p = 0.002). Plasma selenium levels among women with a low CISC score ≤ 15 (n = 56) at 6MPP were significantly higher (110.05 µg/L) than those women with a high score of symptoms of infection (score > 15, n = 23) at 102.18 µg/L (p = 0.048, Mann–Whitney U test). Further research is warranted to investigate whether higher plasma selenium levels contribute to a lower rate of maternal infection during the postpartum period. The association between wider selenium biomarkers and maternal immune function should be determined by examining inflammatory markers or immunoglobulin concentrations. Full article

Open AccessAbstract

Prevalence of Inadequacy of Micronutrient Intake in a Sample of Vegetarian and Non-Vegetarian Female Adolescents in New Zealand

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Med. Sci. Forum 2023, 18(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2023018029 - 30 Mar 2023

Abstract

Appropriately planned vegetarian diets can be nutritionally adequate; however, without careful planning, some nutrients may be at risk of inadequacy, especially in adolescence, when energy and nutrient requirements are higher relative to body mass. The aim of this study was to compare intakes [...] Read more.

Appropriately planned vegetarian diets can be nutritionally adequate; however, without careful planning, some nutrients may be at risk of inadequacy, especially in adolescence, when energy and nutrient requirements are higher relative to body mass. The aim of this study was to compare intakes of at-risk micronutrients in a group of New Zealand female adolescents consuming vegetarian and non-vegetarian diets. A cross-sectional Survey of Nutrition, Dietary Assessment and Lifestyle (SuNDiAL project) was conducted among females aged 15 to 18 years, recruited from across NZ. Data were collected via an online questionnaire, and anthropometric measurements were taken to determine body mass index (BMI; kg/m²). Energy and dietary intake of calcium, iron, zinc, selenium, folate, vitamin A and vitamin B12 (B12) were determined using two 24 h recalls, adjusted to reflect usual intake. In total, 254 adolescents provided dietary intake data, comprising 38 self-identified vegetarians. The majority of the participants were NZ European and Other (NZEO) (78%), lived in neighbourhoods of low to medium deprivation (81.5%), and were a healthy weight (66.5%). Across the total sample, more than 80% did not meet the recommended intake for calcium, with values of 71% for selenium and 58% for folate. Dietary intakes among vegetarians were significantly lower than non-vegetarians, resulting in a higher prevalence of inadequacy for zinc (42% vs. 19%), selenium (92% vs. 67%) and vitamin B12 (40% vs. 16%), respectively. Vegetarians were six times more likely to have inadequate selenium intake, at a three-times-greater risk of having inadequate zinc intake and four times more likely to not meet the recommendations for B12 intake compared to non-vegetarians. In conclusion, adolescents had inadequate intakes of calcium, selenium and folate, whereas vegetarian adolescents had suboptimal intakes of selenium, zinc and B12, leading to an increased risk of deficiency. Full article

Open AccessAbstract

Research on Antimicrobial Utilization and Resistance in England 2021–22 (ESPAUR Report)

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Emily Agnew

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Julie V. Robotham

Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015017 - 28 Mar 2023

Abstract

The Research Chapter (Chapter 8) of the English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance (ESPAUR) Report 2021–2022 showcases the research that has been undertaken and that is ongoing at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in the field of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) [...] Read more.

The Research Chapter (Chapter 8) of the English Surveillance Programme for Antimicrobial Utilisation and Resistance (ESPAUR) Report 2021–2022 showcases the research that has been undertaken and that is ongoing at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in the field of healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) from April 2021 to March 2022 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

ESPAUR Report 2021 to 2022 Chapter 5: NHS England Improvement and Assurance Schemes

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015016 - 28 Mar 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

NHS England designs and administers improvement and assurance schemes that include elements to incentivize prudent use of antimicrobials, optimise patient outcomes, minimise avoidable exposure to antimicrobials, and reduce selection pressure for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These schemes include the NHS System Oversight Framework, the [...] Read more.

NHS England designs and administers improvement and assurance schemes that include elements to incentivize prudent use of antimicrobials, optimise patient outcomes, minimise avoidable exposure to antimicrobials, and reduce selection pressure for antimicrobial resistance (AMR). These schemes include the NHS System Oversight Framework, the Pharmacy Quality Scheme for community pharmacies, the NHS Standard Contract, and the Commissioning for Quality and Innovation (CQUIN) framework. This report describes the schemes implemented from 2021 to 2022, and it reports the scheme performance of NHS commissioners and healthcare provider organisations. A summary of improvement and assurance schemes from 2022 to 2023 is also provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Development and User Feedback on Antimicrobial Stewardship Explainer Videos: A Collaborative Approach between the UK and Eight African Countries

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Jessica Fraser

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Frances Garraghan

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Diane Ashiru-Oredope

Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015015 - 28 Mar 2023

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing, complex, and global threat. Health partnerships are working to address antimicrobial resistance through antimicrobial stewardship activities. To support this work, the Commonwealth Partnerships for Antimicrobial Stewardship programme developed four antimicrobial stewardship explainer animation videos in eight different accents, [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance is a growing, complex, and global threat. Health partnerships are working to address antimicrobial resistance through antimicrobial stewardship activities. To support this work, the Commonwealth Partnerships for Antimicrobial Stewardship programme developed four antimicrobial stewardship explainer animation videos in eight different accents, with input from over 50 stakeholders across eight African countries and the UK. The videos highlight different scenarios and explain AMS in easy-to-understand ways for both health practitioners and the public. Health partnerships piloted the videos in several ways, including in clinical waiting rooms, trainings, and AMS meetings, and provided feedback in a survey. In total, 94% of survey respondents gave the videos either a ‘5’ or ‘4’ for usefulness, with ‘5’ indicating ‘very useful’. Moving forward, through collaboration with the health partnerships, the videos will continue to be disseminated and adapted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

National Antimicrobial Stewardship Activities in Primary and Secondary Care in England 2021–22 (ESPAUR Report)

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015014 - 28 Mar 2023

Abstract

A summary of key national primary and secondary care antimicrobial stewardship interventions led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are highlighted. This includes development and implementation of TARGET Antibiotics Toolkit resources in community pharmacy and General Practice and the development of a [...] Read more.

A summary of key national primary and secondary care antimicrobial stewardship interventions led by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) are highlighted. This includes development and implementation of TARGET Antibiotics Toolkit resources in community pharmacy and General Practice and the development of a national intravenous-to-oral switch (IVOS) criteria for use in secondary care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

Engaging the Global Dental Profession to Help Tackle Antibiotic Resistance

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Paula Anabalon-Cordova

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015013 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

In the pre-antibiotic era, deaths from dental infections were common. Dentists are responsible for prescribing around 10% of antibiotics across healthcare globally. During 2020, dental antibiotic prescribing increased dramatically due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on dental procedures, which are vital for preventing and [...] Read more.

In the pre-antibiotic era, deaths from dental infections were common. Dentists are responsible for prescribing around 10% of antibiotics across healthcare globally. During 2020, dental antibiotic prescribing increased dramatically due to COVID-19 pandemic restrictions on dental procedures, which are vital for preventing and managing dental infections. FDI World Dental Federation responded with a framework about the essential role of dental teams in tackling antibiotic resistance, setting out a program to engage the global dental profession. Three exemplars include an open online course (with >2300 learners enrolled from >100 countries), a pledge for national dental organizations, and an early career researcher network. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing a Board and Online Game to Educate People on Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship: The AMS Game

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015012 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

To support efforts towards addressing the increasingly growing global burden of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a diverse and multicountry team of stakeholders developed a board and online game on antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). The game aims to create awareness and develop knoweledge of healthcare teams [...] Read more.

To support efforts towards addressing the increasingly growing global burden of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a diverse and multicountry team of stakeholders developed a board and online game on antimicrobial stewardship (AMS). The game aims to create awareness and develop knoweledge of healthcare teams at all levels. Reports from initial players reflect that the game is an innovative, engaging and inclusive education resource on AMR and AMS. The game continues to be promoted for continued and wider usage across the globe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Dental Antimicrobial Prescribing in the Midlands: A Regional Action Plan

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015011 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

The aim of our project was to create a resource to support an improvement in dental antibiotic prescribing. The initial phase considered antimicrobial prescribing activity, through NHSBSA data collection, which demonstrated that prescribing in the Midlands was higher than the England average. The [...] Read more.

The aim of our project was to create a resource to support an improvement in dental antibiotic prescribing. The initial phase considered antimicrobial prescribing activity, through NHSBSA data collection, which demonstrated that prescribing in the Midlands was higher than the England average. The second phase involved a targeted action plan through the creation of a bespoke regional website. It is a single resource combining the latest evidence-based guidance to tackle inappropriate prescribing and antimicrobial resistance. The national toolkit on Dental Antimicrobial Stewardship was updated for the Midlands, including adapted audit tools. Communication tools were developed, involving patient discussion tools and a multi-professional awareness campaign. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

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Open AccessProceeding Paper

Antibiotic Amnesty: Engaging with the Public across the Midlands Region of England

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015010 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat. The hoarding, sharing and unsafe disposal of unused or expired antibiotics in domestic waste streams or sewage systems by patients may contribute to the risk of acquiring or spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Community pharmacies in [...] Read more.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat. The hoarding, sharing and unsafe disposal of unused or expired antibiotics in domestic waste streams or sewage systems by patients may contribute to the risk of acquiring or spreading antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Community pharmacies in the UK accept returned medicines for safe disposal, including antibiotics, but awareness of this is low. We organised an antibiotic amnesty campaign in the Midlands region of England; the aim of the campaign was to raise awareness of the risks of AMR and highlight the safe disposal of antibiotics via community pharmacy, timed to coincide with World Antimicrobial Awareness Week in November 2021. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Managing Penicillin Allergy in Primary Care: An Important but Neglected Aspect of Antibiotic Stewardship

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Jonathan A. T. Sandoe

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Sarah Tonkin-Crine

Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015008 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

An estimated 2.7 million people in the UK are potentially prevented from accessing highly effective and inexpensive penicillins as a result of incorrect penicillin allergy records. Removing incorrect penicillin allergy records may lead to improved patient outcomes and contribute to the tackling of [...] Read more.

An estimated 2.7 million people in the UK are potentially prevented from accessing highly effective and inexpensive penicillins as a result of incorrect penicillin allergy records. Removing incorrect penicillin allergy records may lead to improved patient outcomes and contribute to the tackling of antibiotic resistance. We aim to develop and evaluate whether the ‘Penicillin Allergy Assessment Pathway’ (PAAP) is effective in improving patient outcomes. At the first stage of this work, we have focused on understanding patients’ and primary care clinicians’ views of attending and referring to penicillin allergy testing, and then prescribing and consuming penicillin following a negative test result. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Scaling-Up Interventions for Strengthening Antimicrobial Stewardship Using a One Health Approach in Wakiso District, Uganda

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Grace Biyinzika Lubega

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Med. Sci. Forum 2022, 15(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/msf2022015007 - 24 Mar 2023

Abstract

We implemented a multidisciplinary project between Uganda and the UK aimed at strengthening antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in Wakiso district, with a focus on capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge exchange using a One Health approach. Project activities included: trainings and workshops on antimicrobial [...] Read more.

We implemented a multidisciplinary project between Uganda and the UK aimed at strengthening antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) in Wakiso district, with a focus on capacity building, stakeholder engagement, and knowledge exchange using a One Health approach. Project activities included: trainings and workshops on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), AMS, infection prevention and control (IPC); Global Point Prevalence Survey (GPPS) data collection and analysis; and the mentorship of lower level health facilities. Our project demonstrated that AMS interventions using a One Health approach can enhance understanding of the prudent use of antimicrobials and improve practices at health facilities and within communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of ESPAUR Report Webinar and Antibiotic Guardian Shared Learning Awards)

Journal Description

Medical Sciences Forum

Vol. 20

IECC 2023

Vol. 19

OneHealth 2022

Vol. 17

ICRN ESEP2022

Vol. 16

II CILSMP

Vol. 15

ESPAUR 2022

Vol. 14

ECMC 2022

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