Preventive medicine
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Preventive medicine · Jun 2024
The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity in Stockholm County - evidence from time series models of smartphone measured daily steps data spanning over 3 years.
It has been reported that physical activity levels decreased during the COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies often relied on self-reported physical activity, which has low accuracy. Studies based on objectively measured physical activity have had short data collection periods, thereby not allowing the consideration of pre-pandemic levels of physical activity or the influence over the different waves of the pandemic. ⋯ This study reveal that the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic was temporary and that younger age and the possibility of working from home were associated with a decreasing trend in physical activity.
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Preventive medicine · Jun 2024
Using electronic health records to evaluate the adherence to cervical cancer prevention guidelines: A cross-sectional study.
The fight against cervical cancer requires effective screening together with optimal and on-time treatment along the care continuum. We examined the impact of cervical cancer testing and treatment guidelines on testing practices, and follow-up adherence to guidelines. ⋯ Our findings highlighted some shortcomings in guideline adherence, especially among women under 30. The insights gained from this study help to improve the quality of care and, thus, reduce cervical cancer incidence and mortality.
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Preventive medicine · Jun 2024
Would banning menthol cigarettes, flavored cigars, and flavored e-cigarettes prompt users to seek illicit channels for obtaining them in the United States?
Banning flavors in tobacco and nicotine products may reduce youth initiation and prompt quit attempts but such bans may lead to illicit markets. We examined how likely current users would be to seek flavored products from illicit channels under various ban scenarios. ⋯ A significant proportion of users of flavored tobacco and nicotine products would not reject using illicit banned products. Tailored programs are needed to apply to the groups with a higher risk of seeking illicit channels for banned products.
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Preventive medicine · Jun 2024
Perceptions about doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP) as an STI-prevention strategy among gay and bisexual men (GBM) in the United States: Results from a qualitative study.
To leverage qualitative data to explore gay and bisexual men's (GBM) perceptions about doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis (Doxy-PEP). Doxy-PEP is a novel biomedical STI-prevention strategy that helps reduce the risk of acquiring bacterial STIs. Little is known about Doxy-PEP's acceptability in the U.S., nor how best to engage those most vulnerable to STIs in taking up this nascent prevention strategy. ⋯ There is a need for clear guidelines and expanded public health messaging on Doxy-PEP in the U.S.