Showing 108 results for Health
Nafiseh Salehnia, Abbas Assari Arani, Hossein Sadeghi Saghdel, Alireza Olyaeemanesh,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (3-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Health promotion is a crucial task for policymakers. Therefore, this study aims to identify the key factors that determine population health in Iran and illustrate the causal relationships between these factors.
Methods: The research was conducted using a mixed-method approach in three stages. First, macro social determinants of health were identified by analyzing available resources from 2000 to 2019. Screening of factors was carried out through the fuzzy Delphi method and a survey involving 15 experts. Finally, the causal relationships between the social determinants of health were depicted using a fuzzy cognitive map.
Results: Initially, 96 health determinants were identified at the national and global levels. After the screening, 8 factors that had less significance in population health were excluded. In terms of causal relationships, the economic system emerged as the most important and influential factor, with a centrality degree of 21.06 and an out-degree of 10.91. Following that, governance and policy-making, as well as national policies, were ranked with centrality degrees of 20.25 and 20.19, respectively.
Conclusion: Irrespective of the causal relationships, the health system holds the utmost importance in population health. However, when considering the causal relationships, the economic system takes precedence as the most critical factor, while the health system does not rank among the top three factors. Therefore, the analysis of fuzzy cognitive maps assists policymakers in understanding priorities and the interconnectedness between sectors in developing and implementing health-oriented policies across all sectors, enabling the adoption of the most effective policies.
Sahar Najafizadeh, Seyed Vahid Ahmadi Tabatabaei, Fatemeh Dehnavieh Tijang, Somayeh Noori Hekmat,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Human resources play a crucial role in delivering optimal healthcare services to the population. Expanding primary healthcare coverage requires a heightened focus on the healthcare workforce due to their pivotal role in service delivery. This study aims to evaluate the current workload and staffing requirements for primary health workers and midwives in Kerman, Iran, employing the Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN) methodology.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in four selected health centers in Kerman, Iran, to estimate staffing requirements across two categories. A total of 118 activities for primary health workers and 89 activities for midwives were identified through the collaboration of expert panels and a comprehensive review of the Iran’s integrated health system. Subsequently, all activities were meticulously timed in each of the four health centers using stopwatches, and WISN ratios and proportions were calculated using Microsoft Excel 2010.
Results: The WISN calculations revealed a surplus in the number of primary health workers in three of the centers: B, C, and D. However, in center A, the workforce in this category is deemed sufficient. Conversely, a deficiency of midwives was noted in two centers, A and B, with WISN ratios of 0.67 and 0.50, respectively, while center C demonstrated an excess of the workforce with a WISN ratio of 2.00. Notably, an average of 50% of the staff workload in both categories comprises supportive and additional activities.
Conclusion: Interestingly, despite 75% of the cases indicating an excess or sufficiency of employees, staff members continue to grapple with high work pressures. This anomaly appears to be linked to the substantial volume of support and additional activities. Furthermore, the intense workload during specific days and hours translates into a pervasive sense of pressure throughout the week. As a potential remedy, introducing a queuing system into the primary healthcare sector could alleviate this issue.
Alireza Didarloo, Behrouz Fathi, Raana Hosseini, Habibollah Pirnejad, Sima Ghorbanzadeh, Kajal Yasamani,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vaccination stands as a paramount achievement in global public health and a key strategy to control COVID-19. Vaccine acceptance is a pivotal determinant of the success or failure of vaccination programs. Leveraging health education models and theories to predict behavioral intention, this study aimed to investigate the determinants of the intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine among the general population of Urmia using the Health Belief Model (HBM).
Methods: This descriptive-analytical study employed a cross-sectional approach among 575 individuals aged over 18 residing in Urmia. Sampling was conducted through the snowball and convenience sampling methods. Data was collected using a valid and reliable electronic researcher-made questionnaire comprising four sections: demographic characteristics, knowledge, HBM constructs, and intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics in SPSS version 16.
Results: The HBM effectively explained 67% of the variance in the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19. Within the model's constructs, individuals' perceived self-efficacy (β = 0.505, P = 0.001) emerged as the strongest predictor of the intention to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. Other influencing factors included perceived susceptibility (β = 0.158, P = 0.001) and perceived barriers (β = -0.109, P = 0.001).
Conclusion: Given the robust predictive ability of the HBM for the intention to vaccinate against COVID-19, this model can be utilized in educational and behavioral programs and interventions. Special emphasis should be placed on effective constructs, particularly self-efficacy, to enhance citizens' willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
Mohammad Sasanipour, Saeedeh Shahbazin,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This research aims to investigate the components of Rowe and Kahn's successful aging model, encompassing the absence of disease and disability, high cognitive and physical performance, and active participation in life among the elderly population in Tehran in 2020, considering both genders.
Methods: This study utilized a survey approach, involving a sample of 637 individuals aged 60 years and above in Tehran. The sample was selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling method from 22 districts of Tehran, considering the elderly population in each district. Confirmatory structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to assess whether Rowe and Kahn's model aligns with the collected data.
Results: The study's findings demonstrated that Rowe and Kahn's model exhibited a strong statistical fit (p<0.01). Factor loadings in the overall population model and among the two genders were statistically significant and varied. Across the three dimensions of successful aging (avoiding disease and disability, maintaining physical and cognitive functioning, and continuing engagement with life), avoiding disease and disability was the most strongly associated with successful aging, regardless of gender. However, in the other two dimensions, the significance and strength of participation in life and physical and cognitive function varied based on gender.
Conclusion: Programs to support the physical health of the elderly, especially in chronic diseases resulting from lifestyle choice should be developed, and increasing active participation should be a priority, which requires interventions in youth and middle age.
Fatemeh Hajivalizadeh, Mahnaz Sanjari, Noushin Fahimfar, Kazem Khalagi, Mohammad Javad Mansourzadeh, Elahe Hesari, Bagher Larijani, Hadis Ghajari, Mahboobeh Darman, Afshin Ostovar,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: In Iran, a substantial number of individuals at risk of osteoporosis lack access to osteoporosis diagnostic services, highlighting a significant gap in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of osteoporosis. This study aims to investigate the distribution of bone densitometer devices in Iran.
Methods: Bone densitometry devices across the country in 2018 were assessed through a comprehensive census. Information regarding these devices was gathered based on their location (urban or rural), ownership (government or private), adherence to standards, and years of operation. To calculate the inequality index in the distribution of devices among cities within a province, the frequency of devices in the provincial center was compared to those outside the center. To assess the inequality in the distribution of devices among the provinces of the country, the Lorenz curve and concentration index were utilized. All values were calculated per one million people over 50 years of age.
Results: Of the total 492 bone density measurement devices in the country, 399 devices (81.0%) were located in provincial centers. Out of these, 103 (20.9%) devices were in government-owned centers, while 389 (79.0%) devices were in privately-owned centers. For every one million individuals over 50 years old, the total number of devices, standard devices, standard devices with less than 10 years of operation, and devices in government-owned centers were calculated as 33.4, 20.3, 9.9, and 7, respectively. The inequality index in the distribution of devices in the cities was found to be 4.7. Furthermore, the inequality index in the distribution of devices between provinces was estimated as 0.13 (95%CI: 0.005-0.25) (P value=0.05).
Conclusion: There exists a significant disparity in the distribution of bone densitometry devices across the provinces and cities within the country.
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.
Asal Aghadavodian Jolfaee, Maryam Jahanbakhsh, Mohamad Sattari, Roya Kelishadi,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The present research was conducted to predict mental health based on three factors: nutrition, activity, and leisure time, among students in the adolescent age group, using data mining techniques.
Methods: The present analytical study was conducted on 14274 data available in the Caspian 5 database. According to the CRISP-DM method, data mining was done in 6 steps using decision trees, k nearest neighbors, simple Bayesian and random forest techniques in Rapidminer software.
Results: Among the four data mining techniques used to predict the mental health of adolescents based on nutrition, physical activity and leisure time, the random forest technique has the highest accuracy (91.72) and specificity (82.73) and the k-nearest neighbors technique has the highest sensitivity (96.30). In addition, based on random forest techniques, the rule with the highest level of support showed that an adolescent who is in high school, eats breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, drinks tea and coffee weekly, exercises 2 hours a week at school,also, he has 4 days of physical activity for 30 minutes in the last week, and he goes to school with the service, with 100% confidence has good mental health.
Conclusion: Based on the random forest technique, which has showen the best performance, nutrition has the greatest impact on the mental health of Iranian adolescents. So, it is necessary to think about providing a suitable platform for training parents and adolescents regarding proper nutrition and increasing awareness in the field of adolescent mental health.
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.
Manoochehr Karami,
Volume 20, Issue 3 (12-2024)
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the process in which computers, rather than human intelligence, perform tasks, such as early warning of an epidemic. This editorial aimed to describe the potential applications of digital health and the challenges faced by the health system of Iran concerning the application of artificial intelligence and innovative technology in public health surveillance and early warning of epidemics. The use of new technologies at national and subnational levels for early warning of public health threats requires a suitable platform within the context of disease surveillance systems. The Iran health system currently utilizes a syndromic approach and event-based surveillance to monitor acute respiratory infections. However, the structure of Iran's national communicable disease surveillance system has faced challenges due to the inability to share and exchange data at the level of primary health care data sources. Accordingly, application and integration of AI should be considered as Iran’s health priority to promote infrastructure and technology requirements, including compatibility, interoperability, and strategies for ethical and responsible use by public health authorities. Since pandemics and epidemics have not been limited to the previous ones, such as COVID-19, influenza, SARS, dengue fever, and similar threats, operations planning is required for the integration of artificial intelligence tools to prepare and respond to biological threats promptly by the Iranian Ministry of Health, stakeholders, and other parties.
Pardis Mohammadzadeh, Maryam Afraie, Elham Nouri, Mohammad Aziz Rasouli, Ghobad Moradi,
Volume 20, Issue 3 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: This study aimed to compare the health status of Iran with that of the Eastern Mediterranean Regional Countries in terms of various health indicators.
Methods: The data from 27 health indicators were collected in 2023 from WHO, EMRO, and the World Bank and then grouped into five categories: mortality and morbidity indicators, nutritional risk factor and non-communicable disease indicators, health financing indicators, maternal and immunization indicators, and health workforce indicators. This study used MEREC, a method that analyzes the effects of deleting criteria, to determine the weighting of the indicators. The countries were then ranked using the MARCOS method, one of the new multi-criteria decision-making methods.
Results: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates were in the best situation. Iran ranked 8th, 6th, 7th, 4th, and 13th in the first to fifth categories mentioned in the methods. Iran also ranked 10th among the countries in the region in the overall ranking of all these indicators.
Conclusion: Many researchers and policymakers evaluate the health status in Iran based on the introduced health indicators. Iran needs to intensify its efforts to strengthen its position in the Eastern Mediterranean region, considering its overall circumstances.
Reza Dehnavyeh, Mohammad Jaafari Sirizi, Vahid Yazdi Feyzabadi, Farzaneh Yousefi, Parisa Dehghanian,
Volume 20, Issue 3 (12-2024)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Paying attention to future changes and preparing for them is one of the requirements of today's world. Personalized medicine as an emerging and expanding change will bring about changes in medical science. Family physicians as the first line of service delivery and health insurance as factors affecting the provision of services will face this issue. The aim of this study was to draw the space for applying this approach in the field of family physicians and the changes it will bring.
Methods: This study has three stages: preparing a presentation file about personalized medicine and formulating questions, holding a meeting with family physicians, completing the questions form as a group, presenting their opinions, and finally, analyzing and summarizing the views of the doctors by the research team.
Results: Implementing personalized medicine will positively affect each of the family physician's functions, including health management, comprehensiveness of services, continuity of service delivery, coordination, and research. However, like any new change in any field, implementing this approach in this part of the health system will be challenging. There are solutions to face these changes and the resulting challenges from the point of view of family doctors.
Conclusion: As one of the essential parts of facing the changes in the health field, family physicians and health insurance should monitor the issues of this field prospectively and prepare themselves to face them. Providing infrastructures according to possible challenges and considering the principles of change management can be a solution for effectively implementing this approach in this field.
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.
Fereshteh Eidy, Razieh Jafarizadeh, Fatemeh Shoghi, Amirhossein Moradian, Fatemeh Sadat Dolatabadi, Samira Rabiei,
Volume 20, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Overweight and obesity are serious public health problems that have increased significantly among adolescents in recent decades. This condition can affect various aspects of adolescents' quality of life. A questionnaire based on IWQOL-kids was used to assess the quality of life among overweight and obese adolescents in Iran for the first time.
Methods: This study was conducted on 170 overweight and obese adolescents (both boys and girls) aged 11 to 18 years educating in schools of North Khorasan Province. Using a cluster sampling method, data collection was conducted. Data were collected using the IWQOL-kids, a quality of life questionnaire for adolescent obesity, and satistical analyses were conducted using R software version 4.3.2 through univariable and multivariable regression models.
Results: The mean of total score of IWQOL-kids for overweight and obese girls and boys was 82.1 ± 16 and 86.4 ± 15.5, respectively. A significant correlation was found between age and the number of siblings with physical functioning, self-esteem, and overall quality of life scores (p < 0.05). Additionally, age and the number of siblings were significantly associated with social life and family relationships (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Given the impact of weight on adolescents' quality of life, future studies are recommended to include body composition assessments to more accurately examine the impact of gender differences on the quality of life of this age group.
Rahman Panahi, Armin Baleshzar, Ali Zahmatkesh,
Volume 20, Issue 4 (3-2025)
Abstract
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A review of studies has revealed that the concept of traffic literacy in Iran has not been investigated so far, and there is no valid and reliable tool to measure traffic literacy. In addition, there is a relationship between health literacy in one hand, and managing diseases and accidents, the number of traffic injuries and prevention of road traffic injuries in other hand. Also, considering the relationship between health literacy and the management of diseases and accidents, the rate of traffic injuries, and its role in preventing road traffic injuries, and considering the potential impact of health literacy in promoting safer practices for pedestrians and for having a healthier and safer society, it seems necessary to design a tool to measure traffic literacy in the country. |
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. |
Zahra Saboohi,
Volume 21, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Electronic health records, as a new tool in monitoring and controlling epidemic diseases in Iranian schools, can help reduce the spread of diseases. This article examines the role of this system in preventing epidemics and increasing coordination between educational and health institutions.
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.
Mahdi Zare Sakhvidi, Moslem Taheri Soodejani, Mohammad Reza Sadeghian, Mohsen Mirzaei, Hossein Akhondi,
Volume 21, Issue 1 (6-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic metabolic diseases worldwide, and it requires comprehensive healthcare management. This cross-sectional descriptive study aims to evaluate the healthcare status of diabetic patients in Yazd, Iran, and identify gaps in provided care.
Methods: In this study, 702 diabetic patients registered in the Ministry of Integrated Health System were selected using cluster sampling. To identify care gaps, key indicators, including the frequency of HbA1c testing, referrals to specialists, number of visits to healthcare centers, receipt of diabetes education, and level of blood sugar control, were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage) using SPSS software and compared with international standards.
Results: The results of this study indicated that the quality of diabetes care in Yazd was below optimal standards. Only 63.7% of patients underwent hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) testing, and 42.3% achieved optimal blood sugar control. Additionally, 31.2% of patients had elevated systolic blood pressure, and 12% had high diastolic blood pressure. Fewer than half of the patients were referred to specialists. A sedentary lifestyle was reported in 87.7% of cases, and 79.5% were found to be overweight or obese.
Conclusion: Based on the results, there are significant gaps in healthcare quality for diabetic patients in Yazd, including insufficient specialist referrals, lack of regular lab monitoring, and inadequate lifestyle interventions. Enhancing educational programs, regular specialist consultations, and comprehensive care approaches are essential to improving outcomes.
Fatemeh Gorji, Abolghasem Pourreza, Masud Yunesian, Simin Zahra Mohebi, Mahnaz Ashourkhani,
Volume 21, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Timely use of dental services in early childhood plays an essential role in maintaining the health of primary teeth and preventing complications related to jaw development, nutrition, speech, and mental well-being. Regular dental visits help prevent early childhood caries and its consequences. This study aimed to evaluate factors influencing the use of dental services for primary teeth from parents’ perspectives, based on Andersen’s Behavioral Model.
Methods: This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023 among 395 parents of children under six attending health centers in Semnan, Iran. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected online via the Hackey questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26 applying Chi-square tests and logistic regression.
Results: A minority of parents were aware of the appropriate timing for the first dental visit. Forty-five percent sought care only when problems occurred, while 36% attended regular check-ups. Overall, 62% reported moderate to good financial status, and 82% had basic insurance coverage. Key determinants of dental attendance included maternal education, service accessibility, insurance coverage, health information sources, and the characteristics of the healthcare providers as an educator. Larger family size and negative experiences with healthcare staff were associated with reduced utilization.
Conclusion: Interventions at individual and structural levels are needed to promote regular pediatric dental visits. Enhancing parental awareness, involving influential health personnel, expanding dental insurance, and fostering positive provider–parent interactions are recommended.
