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So far Steven Rowe has created 115 blog entries.

Perceptions of Air Pollution Risks in Road Runs: Insights from Runners and the Public in Taiwan

A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Hsueh-wen Chow, PhD

Objective:

This study explores how runners and the public in Taiwan perceive and respond to air pollution risks during road-running events. Specifically, the study identified differences in risk perception and behavioral responses between these groups, and to inform strategies that align with WHO priorities and Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

Methods:

Focus group interviews and Facebook forums with runners were conducted, as well as LINE discussions with the general public. Data were analyzed thematically guided by constructs from the Health Belief Model.

Results:

Runners acknowledged air pollution risks but tended to prefer personal coping strategies such as wearing masks or adjusting pace, as opposed to race withdrawal, largely due to financial and emotional investment. In contrast, the public emphasized the need for policy-driven measures and cooperation between event organizers and public health authorities. Perceptions were shaped by sociocultural factors and individual health beliefs.

Conclusions:

The perception gap between runners and the public highlights the need for targeted risk communication and robust air quality management in endurance sports. Recommendations include real-time air quality monitoring, clearer race protocols, and collaborative planning to protect public health in outdoor sports settings.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.12.2.3

2025-07-14T14:32:02-06:00July 14th, 2025|Air Quality|

Early Results from the Horizon Eagle Fatherhood Program: Impact on Employment

A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Michael Young, PhD
Katrina R. Johnson, EMBA
Valerie Pineiro, MPH
Christopher B. Smith, MSW, MPA

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of a responsible fatherhood program, with a focus on employment.

Methods:

Fathers (n = 195) participated in a 40-hour program, designed to help them improve relationships, parenting skills, and economic stability, including employment. Fathers were randomly assigned to an intervention group or a control group. Intervention fathers received the program and case management. Fathers in the control group received case management. All fathers completed a pretest questionnaire. Then intervention fathers participated in the intervention program. After the intervention, all fathers completed the posttest questionnaire and participated in workforce training. Six months post-program, all fathers completed a follow-up questionnaire.

Results:

There was a statistically significant (p < .01) reduction in unemployment and increase in full-time employment from pretest to posttest and from pretest to follow-up, among participants in both the intervention and control groups. The difference between groups was not statistically significant, but the gains within both groups at posttest were even greater at follow-up (eg, 294% increase in full-time employment from pretest to follow-up among intervention participants).

Conclusions:

Employment status improved for both intervention and control groups. For practitioners seeking to help fathers improve economic stability, these employment results are encouraging.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.12.2.1

2025-06-15T11:14:30-06:00June 15th, 2025|Fatherhood|

Alcohol Access: State-identification Check Failure Rates in the Age of E-commerce

An Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Kyle D. Barrington, PhD, MA
Nicole L. Holt, BA
Atalie Nitibhon, MPAff, MAHS

Objective:

In this study, we aimed to assess the impact of pandemic-related changes on retail alcohol sales as they relate to verifying state-issued identification.

Methods:

Trained staff and volunteers completed an online survey entitled the Community Alcohol-to-go Research Tool each time they ordered an alcoholic beverage via a website or phone application, commonly referred to as an e-commerce order. These surveys were collected and analyzed to ascertain how often a state-issued identification was verified after an alcoholic beverage was ordered using an e-commerce option. In addition, we conducted focus groups.

Results:

After three years of research, we determined that the identification failure rate for overall e-commerce alcohol-to-go sales was approximately 64.8%. The identification failure rate ranged from 26.7% for third-party delivery drivers to 90.0% for customers who walked into a restaurant or grocery store to pick up their e-commerce orders.

Conclusions:

State alcoholic beverage control agencies must redesign their compliance measures to ensure that only those legally eligible to purchase an alcoholic beverage receive those orders, especially when placed via an e-commerce platform.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 12, Number 1, February 2025, pp. 1837-1850(14)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.12.1.4

2025-05-01T17:31:37-06:00April 9th, 2025|Alcohol|

Promoting Food Security Policy Reform to Reduce Stunting through a Social Network Strategy

An Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Untung, MM
Ari Darmastuti, PhD
Novita Tresiana, DPA
Noverman Duadji, DPA
Rulinawaty, DPA

Objective:

In this study, we explore the potential for reforming food security policy settings and reducing stunting through social network strategies.

Methods:

Using a qualitative case study method and social network analysis, we examined specific village fund allocation arrangements and the development of dynamic food granaries through the roles of key actors, actor-actor relationships, and potential collaboration to uncover the role of village governance social networks in catalyzing reforms to achieve community goals. Based on interviews, documents, and observations, we highlight how social networks can enhance policy effectiveness in remote village communities and present specific actors such as indigenous groups as important elements of legitimacy and social acceptance of government programs.

Results:

Our findings contribute to the understanding of navigating policy-setting reforms that emphasize the importance of developing dynamic social networks, focusing actor relationships more broadly, flexibly, and adaptively to local conditions and needs.

Conclusions:

By highlighting the village-level dynamic social network approach model, we offer actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners to strengthen evidence-based local policies and drive public health progress through stronger policy-setting reforms.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 12, Number 1, February 2025, pp. 1807-1822(16)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.12.1.2

2025-05-01T17:34:05-06:00April 8th, 2025|Food Security, Indonesia, Social Media|

Analyzing Flood Risk Behaviors and Preparation in the Midwest Using the Health Belief Model

An Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Danielle Hotalling, MPH
Kevin Boes, MPH
Megan Piotrowski, MS, BSN, RN, CHES
Dhitinut Ratnapradipa, PhD, MCHES
Amy McGaha, MD, MPH
Jack H. Taylor, PhD
Timothy C. Guetterman, PhD

Objective:

Flooding events are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, posing a public health threat to communities in flood zones. Therefore, it is essential to gain insight from residents’ knowledge and beliefs about flooding to inform and develop future risk communication efforts. In this study, we investigated the impacts of perceived risk, beliefs, and attitudes of flooding on flood preparatory behaviors among persons in Iowa and Nebraska.

Methods:

We distributed a survey to Iowan (N = 127) and Nebraskan (N = 144) households near the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, respectively. The survey, framed using the Health Belief Model (HBM), assessed flooding attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors. We used a series of generalized linear models to predict flood pre- paratory behaviors.

Results:

We found that 3 out of 5 components of the HBM were significantly associated with measures of flood preparation – perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, and cues to action. Perceived benefits was statistically significant for one measure and perceived severity was non-significant.

Conclusions:

Our survey provides important insights on how flood risk perception and attitudes influence flood preparation. Understanding these factors is essential for guiding future emergency preparedness efforts.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 6, December 2024, pp. 1-9(9)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.11.6.1

2025-02-02T14:11:23-07:00February 2nd, 2025|Emergency Preparedness|

Understanding Perceived Barriers to and Responsibility for Implementing Recommended Hygiene Activities in US Schools K-12: A Needs Assessment among Caregivers and Educators

An Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Monique Gabrielle Carry, PhD, MA
Rieza Hawarina Soelaeman, PhD, MPH
Samaria K. Aluko-Estrella, MPH
Amanda G. Garcia-Williams, PhD
Linda K. West, MSPH
Julia C. Haston, MD, MS
Bethlehem Nigussie Besrat, MPH
Jose Aponte, BS
Shantrice L. Jones, MPH
Candace D. Rutt, PhD

Objective:

Schools’ ability to implement recommended hygiene-related activities is critical in preventing the spread of gastrointestinal and respiratory illness. We conducted this study to improve understanding of perceived barriers to, and responsibility for implementing recommended activities related to hand hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection.

Methods:

We recruited a convenience sample of adults affiliated with the National Parent Teacher Association during July-August 2020. Questions focused on barriers to implementing recommended hygiene-related, cleaning, and disinfection activities.

Results:

Overall, 1173 participants completed the survey. Among caregivers, the main barriers to conducting hand hygiene were educators’ ability to monitor students (72%), lack of time (66%), and limited funding for hygiene supplies (65%). Among educators, the main barriers to conducting hand hygiene were access to needed supplies (75%), ability to monitor students (75%), and lack of time (72%). The top barriers reported by both groups relating to cleaning and disinfection activities were similar, with both groups reporting limited staff capacity (61% vs 75%), lack of time/scheduling difficulties (64% vs 75%), and lack of funds to purchase supplies (64% vs 70%).

Conclusions:

Our results clarify stakeholder concerns around implementation and main barriers. To implement recommended activities, schools need support (funding, staff, and supplies) and guidance for hygiene-related activities.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 6, December 2024, pp. 20-32(13)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.11.6.3

2025-02-02T14:04:04-07:00January 26th, 2025|School Health|

Relationship of Perceived Racial Discrimination and Age of Onset for Cigarette, Alcohol, and Marijuana Use among Adolescents

An Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Ronald D. Williams, Jr., PhD, CHES, CPH
Genevieve Kitts, BS, CHES
Taylor M. Levy, MS, CHES
Jeff M. Housman, PhD, MCHES
Brenda Berumen-Flucker, PhD

Objective:

In this study, we explored the relationship between perceived racial discrimination and age of initiation for alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use in a nationally representative sample of adolescents.

Methods:

We analyzed data from the 2021 Adolescent Behaviors and Experiences Survey that was administered to students (N = 7705) in 128 high schools in the United States. We conducted bivariate logistic regressions to explore the relationship between perceived racial discrimination, initiation age of cigarette, alcohol, and marijuana use, and demographic variables.

Results:

The odds of initiating all 3 substance use behaviors before age 13 were increased among participants who reported experiencing any level of perceived racial discrimination compared to those who reported never experiencing perceived racial discrimination. Participants who identified as gay or lesbian also experienced increased odds of early onset use.

Conclusions:

Adolescents experiencing perceived racial discrimination, as well as sexual minority youth, report higher likelihood of early onset cigarette, alcohol, and marijuana use compared to their peers. Early onset substance use increases health risks for youth during both adolescence and adulthood. The psychosocial relationship between perceived racial discrimination and behavioral intentions, particularly among adolescents, should be explored further in public health research and practice.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 6, December 2024, pp. 10-19(10)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.11.6.2

2025-02-02T14:01:57-07:00January 23rd, 2025|Substance Use|

The FELLAS (Fathers Empowered to Learn, Lead, & Achieve Success) Fatherhood Project: Pilot Study Results

A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Michael Young, PhD
Kevin Cox, MA
Marielle Natera, MPH
Christopher B. Smith, MSW
Mark J. Kittleson, PhD
David Wingard, PhD
Shannon Lam, MPA
John Bermudez, BFA
Valerie Pineiro, MPH

Objective:

Researchers examined (1) changes in communication, conflict resolution, positive parenting skills, financial management, and 2 measures of employment status among participants in the FELLAS fatherhood program, and (2) whether pretest-posttest changes were maintained at 6-month follow-up.

Methods:

We recruited fathers to participate in a program designed to help them improve relationships, parenting skills, and make progress toward economic stability. Fathers in the program completed questionnaires prior to the beginning of the program, at the end of the program, and at 6-month follow-up. Some fathers also participated in focus groups.

Results:

Participants showed statistically significant improvement from pretest to posttest for four of the 6 outcome measures. These changes were maintained at the 6-month follow-up for 2 of the 4 measures. Additionally, the other 2 outcome measures, which did not show significant change from pretest to posttest, did show significant change from pretest to follow-up. Participant feedback from fathers in the focus groups was also positive.

Conclusions:

These positive results set the stage for a more rigorous evaluation of the intervention.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 5, October 2024, pp. 46-51(6)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/psp/hbpr/pre-prints/content-psp_hbpr_1155

2024-12-05T22:26:20-07:00December 1st, 2024|Community Health|

Using the Active Implementation Frameworks to Explore Implementation of Recess before Lunch

A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Heather F. Terral, PhD
Gina Williamson, PhD
Elizabeth L. Budd, PhD, MPH
Nichole R. Kelly, PhD

Objective:

In this paper, we evaluated barriers and facilitators of implementing a recess before lunch (RBL) schedule in a rural Oregon elementary school.

Methods:

School staff planning a transition to RBL agreed to participate in a qualitative evaluation of implementation feasibility. The Active Implementation Frameworks Exploration Stage and Hexagon Discussion and Analysis Tool informed semi-structured interviews by establishing a priori themes of need, fit, resources/support, readiness, and capacity which were integrated with deductive themes. Data were collected pre-post RBL transition.

Results:

The school principal, 3 teachers, one recess aide, and one food service manager completed interviews (N = 6). Emergent subthemes included: (1) linking RBL with existing health initiatives; (2) identifying a champion; (3) communicating clearly and regularly with teachers and staff; (4) identifying handwashing strategies; and (5) considering modifying school schedule to increase total student eating time.

Conclusions:

Interviewees found implementing RBL to be both feasible and acceptable with a leader to champion the transition. Perceived positive changes associated with RBL included increased student food consumption and improved behavior. School administrators may consider suggesting an RBL modification to their school wellness policy. With proper planning informed by case studies, schools can implement RBL, a relatively simple, low-cost intervention for supporting student behavior.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 5, October 2024, pp. 32-45(14)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/psp/hbpr/pre-prints/content-psp_hbpr_1154

2024-12-05T22:24:41-07:00November 25th, 2024|School Health|

“I Was Afraid to Apply”: Community-based Organizations and Access to SNAP for Latine Immigrant Families with Children

A Fast Track Open Access article published in the Health Behavior and Policy Review Journal.

Authors:

Luisa Cárdenas, MPH, CHES
Maya Scherer, MPH
Mayssa Gregoire, BS
Arline Cruz, BA
Daisy Segarra, BA
Becca Telzak, MPA
Linda Weiss, PhD

Objective:

This study focuses on barriers to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) enrollment and retention for Latine immigrant families in New York City and the value of facilitated access to SNAP provided by community-based organizations (CBOs).

Methods:

Between 2021 and 2023, we conducted surveys and interviews with Latine parents of children under 18 who received SNAP-related assistance from a CBO in the past year (250 surveys, 15 interviews). We also conducted interviews with staff from this same CBO (3 interviews with 6 participants).

Results:

Findings underscore the importance of SNAP to immigrant families with low incomes, the specific challenges immigrant families face in accessing the program, and the value of CBOs in facilitating access to SNAP for these families – by providing information, instilling trust, and addressing administrative burdens.

Conclusions:

Current SNAP enrollment and recertification processes create access barriers for eligible immigrants. Potential policy approaches to increase access include adjustments to documentation requirements, including reducing reliance on third parties; coordinated enrollment across benefit programs; improving language services; clarifying eligibility requirements that may cause fear among immigrants; and providing consistent and sufficient funding to CBOs facilitating access.

Source: Health Behavior and Policy Review, Volume 11, Number 5, October 2024, pp. 18-31(14)
Publisher: Paris Scholar Publishing Ltd.
Article Link: https://doi.org/10.14485/HBPR.11.5.3

2024-12-05T22:22:56-07:00November 25th, 2024|Immigration Health|
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