Showing 32 results for Type of Study: Review Article
Fatemeh Ershadinia, Elham Rahimi, Bushra Zareie, Hadi Pashapoor, Manoochehr Karami,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The disease surveillance system provides essential information about the population at risk and the disease pattern. This review aimed to describe the experiences of countries in establishing COVID-19 school-based surveillance systems.
Methods: We conducted a systematic review. Four databases were searched between January 2019 and December 2022 using relevant keywords. The studies were screened by two people according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings were extracted using a standard form and aligned to the objectives of the review.
Results: The data from 12 studies were extracted using the standard form. All studies related to the school-based surveillance system of COVID-19. Most of studies were conducted in the United States of America and England. The reports did not conform to the standard. The number of schools covered in surveillance systems ranged from 2 to more than 6000 schools. The age group in these studies was 0 to 19 years. Schools submitted data daily or weekly.
Conclusion: The results of the COVID-19 surveillance systems in schools should be reported according to standard Instructions. This is considered a necessity to monitor and evaluate the surveillance system. It also allows other countries and researchers to share and use the results. In addition, sensitivity, timeliness, and positive predictive value were not reported in implemented surveillance systems.
Maryam Ghahramany, Nooshin Peyman, Monavar Afzalaghaee,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: In recent years, there have been significant demographic changes. One of the most important changes has been the decrease in the fertility rate in many countries, including Iran. In recent decades, considering the vital role of men in having children, the question is whether domestic research on the issue of men's attitude towards having children has enough maturity. Moreover, what are the gaps in the research process of this issue in the country?
Methods: The present study used Iranian research articles published in domestic and foreign journals. To obtain relevant articles from domestic Iran databases (magiran, SID) and international databases (Web of Science, Scopus PubMed,) as well as the Google Scholar search engine was used from the beginning until May 2022 with the keywords: attitude, motivation, intention, childbearing, childbirth, fertility, reproduction.
Results: 18 articles related to the purpose of the research were included in the study. The pattern of two children was the dominant pattern of childbearing among men. A large proportion of men had a positive attitude towards childbearing. Among the variables related to men's attitude towards childbearing were education, socio-economic class, a feeling of loneliness, place of residence, and the amount of internet usage.
Conclusion: It is necessary to increase encouragement policies, raise awareness about the importance of having children, provide proper occupations for men, suitable housing, and implement comprehensive educational programs to strengthen men's optimistic view of having children.
Mostafa Talebi, Sareh Shakerian,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a significant endemic diseases in Iran, leading to skin lesions, lifelong scars, and social stigma. This study aims to investigate the influence of climatic and ecological factors on the prevalence of cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Iran.
Methods: This study employed a narrative review approach. A comprehensive search was conducted using key terms such as 'skin Leishmaniasis', 'cutaneous Leishmaniasis', 'climatic factors,' and 'environmental factors' in both national and international databases. All relevant research was included without limitations on location, time, or research methodology.
Results: The initial search yielded 823625 articles. After refining the search keywords and conducting initial screening, 184 studies remained following the removal of duplicate articles. Subsequent screening for eligibility further narrowed down the selection to 30. The inclusion of 6 master theses brought the final number of studies for review to 36. A review of the studies showed a significant association between certain climatic factors, including temperature, humidity, hours of sunshine, and rainfall, and the incidence of cutaneous Leishmaniasis, across various geographical regions in the country. The relationship between factors such as vegetation, wind, and the number of disease cases had different results in different parts of the country.
Conclusion: The results of the present study show the effect of climatic and environmental factors on the rate of cutaneous Leishmaniasis in the country. Considering that the effect of these factors is not the same in all parts of the country, it is necessary to implement effective preventive measures to reduce the disease burden according to the needs of each geographical area.
Faezeh Joghataei, Payam Roshanfekr, Meroe Vameghi, Zahra Jorjoran Shushtari, Neda Soleimanvandiazar, Peimaneh Shirin Bayan, Gholamreza Ghaedamini Harouni,
Volume 19, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Rapid Assessment and Response (RAR) is an approach that has been used in health research since the 1990s, and several guidelines have been designed for it. This study examines and compares different guidelines in this field.
Methods: This review study was conducted on the 6 guidelines published in PubMed and Scopus databases. After the initial review, the main dimensions of these guidelines, including the definition and target group, methods used, steps to conduct the research, and time planning were extracted in the form of a comparative table.
Results: In six guidelines, the RAR approach has been defined in relation to the comprehensive and rapid investigation of a health-related problem. There are differences in terms of the number of 'steps' of rapid assessment and response, as well as in 'time planning'; a period of 12 to 16 weeks is considered. Among the methods used in the reviewed guides, the following can be mentioned: reviewing available information, conducting interviews (open, structured, and semi-structured), focused group discussions, and other methods such as observation, surveys, narrative methods, and mapping.
Conclusion: The rapid assessment and response (RAR) can be used as an approach, with high flexibility and consideration of scientific and practical aspects, to assess health problems and high-risk behaviors in hard-to-reach groups.
Aliasghar Fakhri-Demeshghieh, Hamideh Hasannejad, Alireza Bahonar,
Volume 20, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Antibiotic residues in food, including eggs, are potentially risky to public health. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the relative frequency of antibiotic residues in eggs sold in Iran.
Methods: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, MagIran, Scientific Information Database, and IranDoc were searched. Two independent reviewers screened the titles and abstracts based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were articles written in English or Persian investigating the relative frequency of antibiotic residues in eggs in Iran, and the exclusion criteria were articles without an available full text. Frequency data, publication year, diagnostic test type, and sampling location were extracted from relevant articles.
Results: Among the 217 identified results, 11 articles were included in the systematic review. ELISA (six articles) was the most frequently used diagnostic test. East Azerbaijan province accounted for the most significant number of studies (four articles) based on the geographical distribution of sampling locations. Seven classes of antibiotics and 12 types of antibiotics were estimated in terms of antibiotic residues, with tetracyclines (5 articles, 6 assessments) having the highest number of assessments. In addition, the highest reported relative frequencies were related to tetracycline residues (100%) in Isfahan and chloramphenicol (75%) in Tabriz.
Conclusion: Tetracycline and chloramphenicol residues had the most significant relative frequency in eggs across Iran.
Parvaneh Isfahani, Mohammad Sarani, Somayeh Samani, Aliyeh Bazi, Seyedeh Masoumeh Hosseini Zare, Ahmad Siar Sadr, Maryam Sadat Hosseini, Seyedeh Mahboobeh Hosseini Zare,
Volume 20, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders among students associated with a major decline in academic and social performance. This study was carried out to determine the prevalence of depression in Iran's nursing students.
Methods: the research was conducted as a systematic review and meta analysis, all published scientific articles related to the prevalence of depression in nursing students were searched in 5 databases (Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, SID, Magiran) and Google Scholar search engine and then their quality was evaluated. The heterogeneity of the studies was investigated using the I2 index and meta-regression model to evaluate heterogeneity-prone variables at a significance level of 0.05. Ultimately, 9 articles met the criteria for inclusion in this study and were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) software.
Results: Based on the random model, the prevalence of depression in Iranian nursing students was equal to 3.2% (2.1 – 4.5; 95% confidence level). Results showed that the highest prevalence of depression in nursing students was 6.2% (5.3-7.1; 95% confidence limit) in Sistan and Balochestan province in 2004, while the lowest prevalence was 0.8% (0.5-1.2; confidence limit 95%) in Esfahan and Qom provinces in 2016. Also, there was a significant relationship between the calendar year, sample size, average age, and prevalence of depression in Iranian nursing students (P<0.05).
Conclusion: The results showed that the prevalence of depression in nursing students was 3.2%, which decreased with the increase of the calendar year and average age. Nevertheless, policymakers and managers must take measures to reduce depression.
Ali-Asghar Honarmand, Seyed Aria Nejadghaderi, Aliakbar Haghdoost,
Volume 20, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Electronic cigarettes are devices that heat liquids containing nicotine and chemicals to produce aerosols that can be inhaled. Although these products have been marketed as a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, there is evidence indicating that their use also carries specific risks. Advertising and the influence of social media, particularly among young individuals, have led to increased consumption of these cigarettes and serious concerns. This study aimed to examine the benefits and drawbacks of electronic cigarettes.
Methods: In this narrative review, PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched in a non-systematic manner using relevant keywords to identify studies related to the health effects, history, evolution, and cost-effectiveness of electronic cigarettes.
Results: Electronic cigarettes entered the market for the first time in 2003 and quickly gained popularity among consumers. These cigarettes were marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes; however, they contain various chemicals, some of which decompose when heated, producing toxic compounds. Electronic cigarettes can have multiple impacts on health, including cardiovascular issues, respiratory problems, and the potential risk of cancer.
Conclusion: Electronic cigarettes may assist in smoking cessation in some cases, but significant drawbacks accompany these benefits. Given the potential risks, there is a need for further research to comprehensively assess their effects on health for a more informed understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of these products.
Ehsan Mostafavi, Kiumarss Nasseri, Parvin Yavari,
Volume 20, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
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Dr. Hossein Sabbaghian, a distinguished veterinarian and epidemiologist, is one of Iran's most prominent figures in epidemiology and public health. This paper reviews her valuable activities and achievements.
Throughout his career, Dr. Sabbaghian has held several key positions, such as Director of the Isfahan Health Research Station, Secretary of the Research Office at the School of Public Health at the University of Tehran, Chairman of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, and a member of the University of Tehran's Management Council.
Dr. Sabbaghian has authored numerous epidemiological books and has significantly contributed to the scientific literature on public health and zoonotic diseases in Iran.
Reviewing his valuable services can be very valuable for the epidemiology, and public health community and the country's youth. |
Niloufar Bahrampour, Seyed Vahid Ahmadi Tabatabaei, Maryam Faraji, Aliakbar Haghdoost,
Volume 21, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
ackground and Objectives: Waste refers to solid, liquid, and gaseous materials (excluding sewage) generated from human activities and considered discardable by the producer. The production of household waste also rises with the increase in population. Therefore, evaluating the effects of household waste management on health is a critical issue. Effective interventions can be implemented to mitigate its impacts by identifying the problems and risks associated with this type of waste.
Methods: This study is a scoping review aimed at health impact assessment of household waste management. In this study, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched in English between 2014 and 2024, and the results were entered into Endnote software and screened.
Results: From the initial search of 3,504 studies, 109 full-text articles were ultimately included in the review. The results indicated that most of the research was conducted in developing countries. The primary data collection tools were laboratory samples, and most of the studies were quantitative. Most of these studies have focused on the effects of household waste management on physical health, while the least explored dimension was spiritual health.
Conclusion: This study shows that household waste management, in addition to its effects on physical health and environmental pollution, can affect mental, social, and spiritual health. Therefore, by identifying these effects, we should seek solutions for better household waste management to minimize negative health effects.
Seyed Aria Nejadghaderi, Mohammad Khalili, Aliakbar Haghdoost, Abbas Aghaei-Afshar, Hamid Sharifi,
Volume 21, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Dengue fever is a viral disease transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes, seriously threatening public health. Therefore, prevention and control strategies are critical, given the lack of effective treatment. This study aimed to combine international guidelines for controlling Aedes mosquitoes and managing dengue fever.
Methods: This narrative review focused on international guidelines for preventing and controlling dengue fever and Aedes mosquitoes. Reputable international sources were reviewed, and the selection criteria included the credibility of the issuing organization, focus on vector-borne diseases, and adaptability to different environmental conditions. Key data from each guideline, including objectives, main messages, and recommendations, were extracted. The search timeframe was extended to 2024 and conducted on international websites.
Results: International guidelines emphasized an integrated approach to vector control. Environmental strategies include sustainable water system management, stagnant water elimination, and safe waste disposal. Chemical controls stress the cautious use of larvicides and insecticides while strictly adhering to resistance management protocols. Biological interventions, such as introducing predator species into water bodies, were recommended in specific conditions. The guidelines also highlighted community engagement and education and advocate for intersectoral collaboration. Innovative tools such as insecticide-treated materials, lethal traps, and disease trend prediction technologies were also endorsed. Social mobilization and intersectoral cooperation were key elements for long-term success.
Conclusion: International dengue control strategies combine a multifaceted approach, integrating environmental management, chemical and biological control, and community engagement. Implementing these guidelines as well as technological advancements, and international collaboration can significantly reduce the global burden of dengue fever.
Ebrahim Ghaderi, Ghobad Moradi, Mostafa Salehi-Vaziri, Manoochehr Karami, Ehsan Mostafavi,
Volume 21, Issue 3 (12-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Over the past century, multiple pandemics have caused the deaths of millions and inflicted serious harm upon the global economy, and humanity is still concerned about the emergence of future pandemics. This paper aims to provide an overview of the upcoming challenges in public health by reviewing previous pandemics and threats, examining past experiences, and analyzing current conditions.
Methods: In this non-systematic review, the Google Scholar search engine was searched using suitable keywords, and studies relevant to the subject were selected.
Results: With increasing population and closer human interactions, the risk of outbreaks of infectious diseases is felt more than in the past. The existence of thousands of pathogens in wildlife, along with the impacts of climate change, globalization, lifestyle, hunting, and environmental destruction, raises the probability of human exposure to these agents. If these encounters lead to genetic changes in pathogens and create new species, the risk of emerging and transmissible diseases to humans will increase. In addition to natural factors, human-related factors including bioterrorism and drug resistance (while not considered direct human actions, they result from human misconduct) must also be considered.
Conclusion: Among various pathogenic microorganisms, viruses are highlighted as the principal agents of future pandemics due to their ability for rapid mutation, persistence in wildlife reservoirs, and the lack of effective preventive and therapeutic tools. What is crucial for countries is to utilize the lessons learned from previous pandemics to increase preparedness through strengthening health systems, employing the one health strategy, and mobilizing all capacities for future pandemics.
Ehsan Mostafavi, Hossein Sabbaghian, Parvin Yavari,
Volume 21, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Dr. Kiumarss Nasseri, a veterinarian and epidemiologist, is one of the prominent figures in epidemiology and public health in Iran. This paper reviews his invaluable contributions and professional legacy in these fields.
Methods: Information about Dr. Kiumarss Nasseri and his valuable activities was collected from various sources, including documents, articles, and interviews with individuals.
Results: From 1970 to 1989, Dr. Nasseri served as a faculty member in the Department of Epidemiology at the School of Public Health, University of Tehran. Following the Islamic Revolution, he held several key academic and administrative positions, including membership in the Coordinating Council of the School of Public Health, Deputy for Education at the School of Public Health, Director of the International MPH course in collaboration with the World Health Organization, and Head of the Health Group at Iran University Press. He continued his academic and research activities in cancer epidemiology at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), California State University, Northridge (CSUN), and as a lecturer in epidemiology at the University of Liverpool in England. Professionally, he served as a senior epidemiologist with the California Cancer Registry at the California Department of Public Health. He has authored numerous books in the fields of epidemiology, public health, and zoonoses.
Conclusion: Reviewing Dr. Nasseri’s distinguished career and contributions can provide valuable insight and inspiration for scholars and future students in epidemiology and public health in Iran.
