Kolade Afolayan Afolabi; Adebukunola Olajumoke Afolabi
Abstract
Background: Women experience variations in postpartum amenorrhea, the length of which depends on the type of breastfeeding and women’s physiology. We conducted the present Study to assess the perception and pattern of resumption of menstruation, and identify the determinants of resumption of menstruation ...
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Background: Women experience variations in postpartum amenorrhea, the length of which depends on the type of breastfeeding and women’s physiology. We conducted the present Study to assess the perception and pattern of resumption of menstruation, and identify the determinants of resumption of menstruation and proportion at risk of unplanned pregnancy among exclusive breastfeeding women. Methods: Study employed sequential explanatory mixed method research design and was conducted between September and November, 2019. We collected the quantitative data using a semi-structured questionnaire from 497 exclusive breastfeeding women selected through a two-stage sampling technique in Southwest Nigeria. In addition, Focus Group Discussion guide was utilized to conduct qualitative study. The quantitative data were analyzed with SPSS version 22 using appropriate statistic, and the level of significance was p Results: Our result revealed that 43.4% of women whose postpartum period begins in less than eight weeks were amenorrheic, 65.6% of women whose postpartum period occurs between the 8th and 16th week were also amenorrheic, 85.8% of women whose postpartum period begins between 17th and 24th week remained amenorrheic. 76% of the women studied relied on Lactational Amenorrhea for contraception. Age (P=0.001, OR=0.24, CI=0.10-0.50), parity (P=0.04, OR=0.55, CI=0.31-0.79), and postpartum length (P=0.002, OR=0.23, CI=0.18-0.75) remained significant determinants of the return of menstruation. Conclusion: A significant proportion of women studied perceived themselves to be at no risk of unplanned pregnancy which may ultimately influence timely postpartum contraceptive uptake. Advocacy should therefore focus on addressing effective contraception among this group of women
Najmeh Maharlouei
Abbas Saremi; Alireza Bahrami; Mohammad Parastesh; Mina Ranjbar
Abstract
Background: Identification of body mass and physical activity status in women may be helpful for improving their reproductive health. The purpose of the current research was to analyze and compare the body mass index (BMI) and physical activity level (PAL) among women with and without infertility. Methods: ...
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Background: Identification of body mass and physical activity status in women may be helpful for improving their reproductive health. The purpose of the current research was to analyze and compare the body mass index (BMI) and physical activity level (PAL) among women with and without infertility. Methods: This descriptive-analytical research was conducted on 150 infertile women who referred to therapeutic centers of Shahrekord to treat infertility and 150 fertile women using filed study method. Physical activity questionnaire was then filled in by these women. The height and weight were measured using Seca stadiometer and digital scale based on standard methods, and then, BMI was calculated and the values were compared. The Mann-Whitney test was used to analyze data and the significance level was considered P<0.05. Results: The physical activity score of infertile women was estimated to be low in this study that indicates sporting inactivity or very low PAL in subjects. The overall prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity in infertile subjects were 8.7%, 26.7%, 34.7%, and 30%, respectively. The frequency of overweight and obesity was reported to be significantly higher in these subjects. The physical activity score of fertile women was estimated to be medium, and the prevalence of underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity in fertile subjects were 29.8%, 40.4%, 17.2%, and 11.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Results from the study emphasize the importance of body composition and creation of interest among women to do exercise and gain normal weight and keep it off to achieve healthy fertility
Elnaz Abbasian; Mohsen Faizi; Asghar Mohammadmoradi; Abbas Erfanian Omidvar; Reza KhosrowAbadi
Abstract
Background: women have been exposed to growing symptoms of depression by urban life as well as endangering their mental health. Researches show that the effect of landscape components can be virtually seen in films and images. However, the main point is to rank the effectiveness of components in providing ...
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Background: women have been exposed to growing symptoms of depression by urban life as well as endangering their mental health. Researches show that the effect of landscape components can be virtually seen in films and images. However, the main point is to rank the effectiveness of components in providing an appropriate virtual environment for women`s health. Tehran has gardens where effective components on mental health are hidden. These gardens are suitable samples for evaluating landscape architecture components from users’ views, especially women in virtual environment. Methods: This research introduced the effective components on mental health based on universal research. By determining these components in the gardens of Tehran, we assessed their effectiveness in six selected qualified spots of public gardens in Tehran with multimedia questionnaires in virtual space from 300 women who went to garden in three completely similar areas from 8 A.M to 12 A.M. The method of this research was set in the category of Structured Analysis research with Generalized Least Squares tested via by a software AMOS version 24. Results: A significant positive association existed between the details of the gardens and their direct impact on the reduction of depression symptoms (CR>0.7, RMSEA: 0.025, P=0.008, P<0.05). Geometry and color by potential effectiveness and sound, material, water and vegetation were considered effective in women`s reactions to reduce depression symptoms. Conclusion: Iranian gardens have the effective components based on health patterns. Pattern of public gardens in Tehran are shown as an appropriate icon to have an effect on mental health of women in virtual environment to reduce depression symptoms.
setareh derakhshanpour; zahra yazdanpanahi; Marzieh Akbarzadeh
Abstract
Background: In recent years, for the purpose of proper planning, the quality of life has been considered by researchers and clinical experts as one of the most important outcomes of chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of life and its dimensions in women and men with Human ...
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Background: In recent years, for the purpose of proper planning, the quality of life has been considered by researchers and clinical experts as one of the most important outcomes of chronic diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of life and its dimensions in women and men with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in the high-risk behaviors center of Shiraz. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we selected 224 patients (112 man and 112 woman) with HIV / AIDS from Behavioral Counseling Center of Shiraz through convenience purposive sampling method; we gathered data using quality of life Short-Form 36 (SF36) and a demographic questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a t-test. Results: The mean score of general health (55.31±17.82) (P=0.367), physical health (287.85±81.16) (P=0.168), and psychological health of women (255.40±74.80) (P=0.207) was more than those with HIV/AIDS. The mean score of other quality of life dimensions in women was more than that of men; however, no significant differences were observed in other dimensions. Conclusion: The average score of quality of life in women was better than in men, hence the necessity of promoting calm adherence to treatment.
Najmeh Maharlouei
Safieh Mohammadi; Fariba Hafezi; Parvin Ehteshamzadeh; Zahra Eftekhar Saadi; Saeed Bakhtiarpour
Abstract
Background: Marital conflicts bring about issues in marital relationships and increase the divorce rate. Sexual skill training can prevent some of the marital conflicts and sexual problems in women. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of schema therapy on sexual self-esteem in the women ...
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Background: Marital conflicts bring about issues in marital relationships and increase the divorce rate. Sexual skill training can prevent some of the marital conflicts and sexual problems in women. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of schema therapy on sexual self-esteem in the women involved in marital conflicts in Ahvaz. Methods: The study design was quasi-experimental. The study population comprised all women with marital conflicts who referred to the psychological centers of Ahvaz in 2019; using convenience sampling, we selected 30 women willing to participate in the project and randomly divided them into experimental (n=15) and control (n=15) groups. The research instrument included Marital Conflict Questionnaire (MCQ) and Sexual Self-Esteem Index for Woman-Short Form (SSEI-W-SF). The experimental group underwent eight sessions (90-minute sessions per week) of schema therapy. The follow-up was performed after 30 days. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 24. Results: In terms of sexual self-esteem, there was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups in the pre-test stage. Schema therapy effectively increased sexual self-esteem in women involved in marital conflicts in the experimental group (P<0.001). The mean pre-test and post-test scores of the experimental group were 106.26±8.05 and 128.76±6.77, respectively, which increased compared to the pre-test (107.13±6.71) and post-test (108.46±8.97) of the control group. Conclusions: Schema therapy can be employed to improve self-esteem in women involved in marital conflicts. In this way, the conflicts among couples and other family members can be reduced.
Chidozie Mbada; Julitta Oseghale Ehinomen; Kikelomo Aboyowa Mbada; Olabisi Aderonke Akinwande; Adebanjo Babalola Adeyemi; Okechukwu Ernest Orji; Esther Kikelomo Afolabi; Moses Makinde; Adaobi Okonji
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-related changes in women’s body shape and size predisposes to negative body image. However, the nexus between pregnancy-related body image and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is still controvertible. This study assessed the relationship between body image and HRQoL ...
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Background: Pregnancy-related changes in women’s body shape and size predisposes to negative body image. However, the nexus between pregnancy-related body image and Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) is still controvertible. This study assessed the relationship between body image and HRQoL among Nigerian nulligravid, pregnant, and postpartum women.Methods: 385 women volunteered for this cross-sectional study between November 2016 and January 2017 from two selected clinics in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria. Body image was assessed using the Body Attitude Questionnaire (BAQ) and Body Shape Questionnaire (BSQ), respectively. HRQoL was assessed using the SF-12 questionnaire. Data was summarized using descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics including Chi-square test was used to test the associations between body image and HRQoL in pregnant and postpartum women. Alpha level was set at P<0.05.Results: Body attitude satisfaction and pregnancy-related women status was significantly associated with respect to abdomen (P=0.021) and genitalia (P=0.005). Postpartum women were most satisfied with their abdomen (95.2%). There was significant correlation between BAQ score and health perception (P=0.001), emotional functioning (P=0.001), and mental health (P=0.040) scales of the SF-12. There was significant correlation between BSQ score and bodily pain (P=0.020), health perception (P=0.001),and emotional functioning (P=0.003) scales of the SF-12.Conclusions: Postpartum women had better body attitude and body shape perception than their pregnant and non-pregnant counterparts. Body attitude is related to HRQoL in non-pregnant, pregnant and postpartum women. Body shape perception is only correlated with bodily pain, health perception and emotional functioning scales of the HRQoL.
Najmeh Maharlouei; Hengameh Kasraei; Fatemeh Shaygani; Amir Reza Bahadori; Sharareh Khonyagar; Zahra Reyhani; Seyyed Shahrokh Mousavi; Maryam Kazemi; Kamran B. Lankarani
Abstract
Mental health is one of the most important of health components.Mental and behavioral diseases are major disease burdens. Women make up half of the world's population and raise the other half. While women are an integral part of societies, their diverse roles put them at a higher risk of psychological ...
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Mental health is one of the most important of health components.Mental and behavioral diseases are major disease burdens. Women make up half of the world's population and raise the other half. While women are an integral part of societies, their diverse roles put them at a higher risk of psychological issues The 8th conference on women's health was the collaboration of Health Policy Research Center, affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical sciences, and Health Promotion and Women’s Health workgroup affiliated with the Academy of Medical Sciences. It is believed that we must move towards promoting and broadening women's health issues beyond the sole reproductive and sexual rights. Through a coordinated action, which has involved all concerned stakeholders including governmental health, social, and economic sectors, local authorities and stakeholders, industries, NGOs, volunteers, and the media aiming to enhance women’s mental health, the conference had three priorities: 1) family cohesion and lifestyle, 2) vulnerable women, and 3) resilience.
Mehrnoosh Babolhavaeji; Elaheh Khoshnevis; Sahar Jafarzadeh Rastin
Abstract
Background: Betrayal and marital infidelity are a kind of disorder and illness in behavior, which, due to its adverse effects, causes various injuries and problems for each person. This study aimed to determine the effect of training, based on cognitivebehavioral group therapy (CBGT), on depression and ...
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Background: Betrayal and marital infidelity are a kind of disorder and illness in behavior, which, due to its adverse effects, causes various injuries and problems for each person. This study aimed to determine the effect of training, based on cognitivebehavioral group therapy (CBGT), on depression and coping styles of women exposed to infidelity of a spouse, of course, the marital infidelity did not continue. Methods: This research was quasi-experimental, including pretest-posttest and control group. The population consisted of all women seeking psychological services due to the infidelity of their husbands during the second half of the Iranian year (from late September to late March) in 2017. Twenty two volunteers who met the requirements of the study were selected and randomly divided into two groups, experimental group (11 patients) and control group (11 patients). The experimental group participated in the 8th sessions (once a week, for 90 minutes) of CBGT. Subjects in both groups were asked to take a pre-test and post-test, responding to Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software version 13. To analyze the data, the descriptive statistics and analysis of covariance test were used. Results: The results showed that there was a significant difference between the mean of depression (54.10±5.3) and coping styles in the experimental group comparing with the post-test (P<0.001). The mean of problem-focused coping (09.58±35.7) of the experimental group increased in the post-test compared with the pre-test and the mean of the experimental group’s avoidance coping (90.48±88.4) and emotion-focused coping (25.41±59.11) decreased in the post-test compared with the pre-test. Thus, CBGT reduces depression and the use of ineffective coping styles (emotional and avoidance-coping styles), as well as, increasing the use of effective coping style (problem-focused coping style) in women after the marital infidelity of their spouses. It can be concluded that the implementation of CBGT has affected women after the marital infidelity of the spouse, which was 0.61 and created by an independent variable intervention. Also, the statistical power was 0.99. Conclusions: According to the results, it can be concluded that training, which is based on CBGT can improve depression and coping styles in women who exposed to infidelity of a spouse. It is suggested that counselors and psychologists use CBGT in dealing with women after the marital infidelity of their spouses. This way can help reduce their depression, behavioral abnormalities, and also improve coping styles.
Masoumeh Dehdashti Lesani; Behnam Makvandi; Farah Naderi; Fariba Hafezi
Abstract
Background: Quality of life is a multidimensional and dynamic concept that can be assessed based on the differences between expectations and reality level. The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of social anxiety in the causal relationships of alexithymia and social intelligence with ...
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Background: Quality of life is a multidimensional and dynamic concept that can be assessed based on the differences between expectations and reality level. The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of social anxiety in the causal relationships of alexithymia and social intelligence with the quality of life in women-headed household in Ahvaz.Methods: The research design was causal-correlational and had a field type. A total of 261 women-headed household were selected from Ahvaz City by convenience sampling. The research instrument included World Health Organization Quality of Life Questionnaire-Short Form, Ahvaz Alexithymia scale (AAS- 26 questions), Tromso Social Intelligence Scale (TSIS), and Jerabek Social Anxiety Scale. Analysis of the data involved both descriptive and inferential statistics including mean, standard deviation, Pearson’s correlation, and path analysis. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 24.Results: A direct and positive relationship was observed between social intelligence and quality of life (β=0.152, P=0.003) and between alexithymia and social anxiety (β=0.245, P=0.001). There was a direct and negative relationship between social anxiety and quality of life (β=-0.618, P=0.001). There was no direct and significant relationship between alexithymia and quality of life (β=0.043, P=0.417). The path analysis results indicated that social anxiety had a mediating role in the relationship between alexithymia and quality of life (β=-0.246, P=0.001) as well as the relationship between social intelligence and quality of life (β=-0.275, P=0.001).Conclusion: Social anxiety plays an important role in the relationship between social intelligence, alexithymia, and quality of life.
Alireza Salehi; Maryam Marzban; Fatemeh Amini
Abstract
Context: Dysmenorrhea is a common problem in women.
Objectives: This study aimed to summarize the results of all relevant clinical trials to draw a conclusion regarding the effect of Foeniculum vulgareon primary dysmenorrhea (PD).
Methods: In this study, we searched 19 databases (including Medline/PubMed, ...
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Context: Dysmenorrhea is a common problem in women.
Objectives: This study aimed to summarize the results of all relevant clinical trials to draw a conclusion regarding the effect of Foeniculum vulgareon primary dysmenorrhea (PD).
Methods: In this study, we searched 19 databases (including Medline/PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science) for the effects of Foeniculum vulgareon primary dysmenorrhea up to November 2016. The reference lists of the reviews and related articles were consulted to identify eligible articles. Studies investigating combinations of fennel and other products, without a control group, addressing premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and bleeding as the primary outcomes, and not being a randomized clinical trial (RCT) were excluded. A meta-analysis was performed to obtain a pooled estimate of effectiveness. The methodological quality was assessed using the modified Jadad scale. The registration number of this study is 95-01-65-11733.
Results: Our search identified nine relevant articles for inclusion. The meta-analysis showed favorable effects of Foeniculum vulgareon primary dysmenorrhea for fixed effect (n = 727, OR = 0.573, 95% CI: 0.414 to 0.793, P = 0.001) and random effect (n = 727, OR = 0.141, 95% CI: 0.027 to 0.742, P = 0.021). The analysis also revealed a remarked heterogeneity (Q value = 198.318, P = 0.000, I 2= 95.96, τ 2= 6.065).
Conclusions: We found that the fennel extract is effective for primary dysmenorrhea. However, due to the heterogeneity of various findings, we were unable to find the effective dosage and concentration of this herbal medicine. We recommend multicenter clinical trials worldwide for evaluating the effectiveness of fennel in primary dysmenorrhea.
Arezoo Bagheri; Mahsa Saadati
Abstract
Background: A set of economic and social rules and regulations as well as cultural factors influence value of children; however, this value itself could alter fertility behaviors. The present study aimed at investigating the influence of the value of children on fertility behavior through considering ...
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Background: A set of economic and social rules and regulations as well as cultural factors influence value of children; however, this value itself could alter fertility behaviors. The present study aimed at investigating the influence of the value of children on fertility behavior through considering the impact of its attitudinal factors on childbearing desire, as one of the most important dimensions of fertility behavior.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 6231 females from 31 provinces of Iran, admitted to public health and treatment centers to vaccinate their children, during year 2014. The data collection tool was a questionnaire, including three value of children dimensions, including cultural (five items), social (seven items), and economic (four items) factors, and also demographic and attitudinal questions.
Results: Data were analyzed using SPSS-17 software and the factors influencing childbearing desire (CD) were examined by four SEMs for four age groups in AMOS-22. Goodness of fit models was confirmed by five fit indices. Only cultural factors had a significant direct effect on CD for 30 to 39 and 40 to 49 year-old females (P-values = 0.027, and < 0.001, respectively).
Conclusions: Thus, planners and policy makers should consider changes in the cultural value of children to implement successful policies to alter the current decreasing trend of fertility rate.
Shabnam Ghazanfari; Sedigheh Ebrahimi; Omid Asemani
Abstract
Background: Despite many studies, we are still in need of more investigations aiming at the implementation of patients’ rights in Iran; this would be more important concerning vulnerable groups like women. In this way, we have tried to study how much are Iranian women justified about Iranian patients’ ...
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Background: Despite many studies, we are still in need of more investigations aiming at the implementation of patients’ rights in Iran; this would be more important concerning vulnerable groups like women. In this way, we have tried to study how much are Iranian women justified about Iranian patients’ rights charter and how much are their rights observed during hospitalization.
Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 150 competent in-patients were selected by simple random sampling. A previously validated (face, content, and construct validity) and reliable (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92) questionnaire was used to collect data. The questionnaire was designed based on the last version of Iranian patient rights charter and included four subscales. The data were analyzed by SPSS 21 using parametric statistics.
Results: Patients’ rights charter was practiced weak (0.76 ± 0.24 out of 3) according to the patients. The weakest score was observed for the dimension of ‘accountability and handling of complaints’ (0.09 ± 0.27). Generally, the participants placed a relative importance (justified relatively well) for the charter (2.20 ± 0.46). Additionally, the "importance" of the rights was also significantly different regarding patients’ educational (P < 0.001) and employment status (P < 0.001) and place of residence (P < 0.001). No significant correlation was determined between "Importance" and “performance” subscales.
Conclusions: According to the findings, more attempts should be implemented aiming at informing and sensitizing women about their rights. Therefore, establishing and/or supporting the following measures could be helpful: hospital and media-based advising programs for both patients and professionals, patients’ rights movements, systematic controls and supervisions and carrying out patients’ rights as a firm policy.
Elham Azmoude; Haniye Behnam; Saeede Barati-Far; Maryam Aradmehr
Abstract
Background: Long-acting and permanent contraceptive methods (LAPMs) are the most effective approaches to reduce fertility. The study of factors associated with the use of LAPMs is one of the key steps in finding the population involved in reduced fertility.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess ...
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Background: Long-acting and permanent contraceptive methods (LAPMs) are the most effective approaches to reduce fertility. The study of factors associated with the use of LAPMs is one of the key steps in finding the population involved in reduced fertility.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess factors affecting the use of LAPMs among married women of reproductive age in Torbat Heydariyeh city, East of Iran.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 304 married women aged 15 - 49 years in Torbat Heydarieh in 2016. Data were collected using demographic and fertility questionnaires. The data were analyzed using SPSS 13 by descriptive statistics and multivariate regression analysis.
Results: The current overall prevalence of using LAPMs was 21.4%. The multivariate analysis showed that utilization of LAMPs was less frequent among the participants with diploma (AOR = 0.357, 95% CI = 0.156 - 0.817) and academic education (AOR = 0.418, 95% CI = 0.174 - 1.003) compared to women who had primary and secondary education. However, the utilization of LAPMs was more frequent in those with high income level (AOR = 8.364, 95% CI = 3.994-17.511) and those with higher number of living children (AOR = 2.247, 95% CI = 1.585-3.187).
Conclusions: The persistent use of LAPMs is largely determined by education and income level and the number of surviving children. Reproductive health programmers can consider this group of women for interventions aiming at improving the fertility rate.
Parvin Mirmiran; Zeinab Ghorbani; Firoozeh Hosseini-Esfahani
Abstract
Context: Obesity is a major public health problem worldwide. This review aimed at providing an updated overview of obesity in Iranian women and its associated complications.
Evidence Acquisition: In this narrative review study, related systematic reviews or meta-analysis studies of high ranking journals ...
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Context: Obesity is a major public health problem worldwide. This review aimed at providing an updated overview of obesity in Iranian women and its associated complications.
Evidence Acquisition: In this narrative review study, related systematic reviews or meta-analysis studies of high ranking journals conducted from 2000 to 2016 were searched in the PubMed, Medline, and Scopus with the following keywords: “women OR female” AND “weight OR overweight OR obesity”, “risk factors OR complications”, “reproduction OR cancer OR cardiovascular disease OR diabetes OR gestational diabetes OR maternal obesity OR fertility OR pregnancy OR polycystic ovary syndrome” OR management.
Results: In Iran, women have shown a constantly higher risk of obesity compared to men. After a 9- year follow-up, the age-standardized incidence rate (95% CI) of diabetes was 10.1 (7.24 - 13.9) in women. The increases in overweight and obesity in menopausal women have an important role in endometrial, colon, and breast cancer. Obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer 2.4 to 4.5 folds compared to the normal weight women. Maternal obesity increases the risk of gestational hypertension 4.5 to 8.7 times compared to normal weight women. An increasing number of obese women becoming pregnant is associated with short- and long-term maternal and child outcomes. The prevalence of childhood obesity in children of obese women aged 3 to 5 years increases up to 25%; and these children have an almost 6- fold chance of being obese in young adulthood. Weight reduction of obese women is accompanied with lower incidence of obesity complications. The most effective interventions are multiple behavioral management activities.
Conclusions: Considering the large population of young people in Iran and the lack of any effective preventive policy, the burden of obesity and its associated outcomes will be problematic in the near future.
Nooshin Zarei; Hassan Joulaei; Mohammad Fararouei
Abstract
Background: Quality of life (QoL) is a broad construct and can be influenced by many factors. Perceived stigma is inevitable in patients with HIV. Therefore, it is an important factor to understand their QoL.
Objectives: The current study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the perceived ...
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Background: Quality of life (QoL) is a broad construct and can be influenced by many factors. Perceived stigma is inevitable in patients with HIV. Therefore, it is an important factor to understand their QoL.
Objectives: The current study was conducted to investigate the relationship between the perceived stigma among HIV-positive women and their QoL in Shiraz, Iran.
Patients and Methods: In this quantitative study, 110 HIV-positive women were selected by simple random sampling method. A questionnaire was designed and used as a tool for data collection. The questionnaire included demographic information, internal stigma scale, and the ACTG short form-21 (SF-21) for measuring QoL. Data were collected from March to August 2015 and analyzed using t- test, Pearson’s correlations, and the multiple regression test with the SPSS software version 21.
Results: The mean age of the women was 37.86 ± 9.03 years. Most of the participants were infected with HIV/AIDS through sex with their spouse (78.2%). About one-third of the women had physical symptoms (29.1%) of the HIV disease. The prevalence rate of perceived stigma in the sample was 69.7%. Quality of life was significantly different in terms of employment status, emotional support and physical symptoms (P < 0.05).
Conclusions: A higher level of perceived stigma among HIV-positive women is associated with a considerable decrease in all QoL dimensions. Thus, more efforts should be considered to reduce the perceived stigma and improve the QoL of such patients.
Thanh Cong Bui; Christine M Markham; Pamela M Diamond; Ly Thi-Hai Tran; Michael W Ross; Huong Thi-Hoai Nguyen; Thach Ngoc Le
Abstract
Background: The conceptualization and measurement of gender-based relations and equity are still challenging to researchers worldwide. Given a growing number of health studies which want to take into account the roles of gender relations, there is a need for quantitative measures of this determinant.
Objectives: ...
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Background: The conceptualization and measurement of gender-based relations and equity are still challenging to researchers worldwide. Given a growing number of health studies which want to take into account the roles of gender relations, there is a need for quantitative measures of this determinant.
Objectives: Based on the theory of gender and power and results from our previous qualitative work, this analysis aims to examine the applicability, reliability, and validity of a set of self-perceived gender-relation measures in the Mekong delta of Vietnam.
Methods: Data came from a cross-sectional survey of 1181 undergraduate female students from two universities. Second-order latent variable modeling was used to examine applicability of theoretical structures and validity of measuring items. Single-factor modeling was employed to screen for the most relevant dimensions of self-perceived gender relations.
Results: The second-order modeling showed good fit, suggesting that the theory well explained self-perceptions of gender relations. The consistency of models across 500 hypothetical bootstrapping samples further substantiated factorial validity of measures. Students who ever had a boyfriend held slightly different perceptions of gender relations compared to those who never had a boyfriend.
Conclusions: The final parsimonious set of measures which had best loadings onto perceived subordination consisted of ten dimensions; this provides a practical application to measure self-perceived gender relations in other health research.
Faegheh Dehganipour; Mohsen Salesi
Abstract
Background: Metabolic syndrome is considered a risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The syndrome is the result of various factors, including poor nutritional diets, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. Physical activity and good ...
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Background: Metabolic syndrome is considered a risk factor for many chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). The syndrome is the result of various factors, including poor nutritional diets, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. Physical activity and good nutrition can prevent metabolic syndrome.
Objectives: The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of continuous and discontinuous training on metabolic syndrome components in non-athlete, middle-aged woman.
Patients and Methods: Forty-five non-athlete women who met the study criteria voluntarily participated in this study. The participants were divided randomly into three groups: continuous, discontinuous, and control (n = 15 in each group). Twenty-four hours before the beginning of the training program, a blood sample was obtained from each participant in the fasting state .The two training groups participated in sports activities designed to produce a heart rate of 50 - 70 beats/minute for 8 weeks, three times a week, for 60 - 90 minutes. The continuous training group performed the activities in one session, and the discontinuous training group performed them in two sessions, for the same time and intensity. Twenty-four hours after the completion of the 8-week program, all the measurements were performed similar to the pretest phase. The data were analyzed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Results: The discontinuous training significantly decreased each participant’s weight (P = 0.04) and systolic blood pressure (BP) (P < 0.01), whereas it significantly increased their triglyceride (TG) (P < 0.01) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels (P < 0.01). However, there was no significant change in diastolic BP, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), or glucose. In the continuous training group, the TG level decreased significantly (P < 0.01).
Conclusions: This study demonstrated that a regular physical activity program in the form of discontinuous training improved metabolic syndrome indexes in non-athlete, middle-aged women. Discontinuous training seems to be an efficient, safe, and inexpensive way to reduce and prevent metabolic syndrome.
Seyed Hojjat Zamani Sani; Mahta Eskandarnejad; Zahra Fathirezaie
Abstract
Background: Body image is an important factor in women’s lives.
Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to explore the association among body image, perceived physical fitness and its subscales, physical activity, body mass index and age in women.
Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional ...
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Background: Body image is an important factor in women’s lives.
Objectives: The purpose of the current study was to explore the association among body image, perceived physical fitness and its subscales, physical activity, body mass index and age in women.
Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 82 women from University of Tabriz staff and masters. Participants were selected through convenience sampling. Individual characteristics, physical activity rate, body image and perceived physical fitness questionnaires were completed. Data were analyzed by Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Pearson’s correlation coefficient and regression.
Results: The results of the study indicated a significant linear association of body image with body mass index (r = 0.769, P = 0.0001), body composition (r = 0.587, P = 0.0001), and aerobic endurance (r = - 0.229, P = 0.038). In addition, there was no significant linear relationship between physical activity and other variables, except for flexibility (r = 0.258, P = 0.019) and age (r = 0.418, P = 0.0001). Regression analysis showed that physical self-perception, aerobic endurance, body composition, muscular strength, flexibility, and body mass index could predict 64% of the variance of body image.
Conclusions: Physical self-perception and its factors along with body mass index are important to build up body image. Some interpretations and limitations about physical activity motives and measurements were also cited.
Habibeh Ahmadipour; Golasa Kiarash
Abstract
Background: A healthy lifestyle plays an important role in promoting good health and preventing deseases.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the promotion of healthy lifestyles for women in Kerman, Iran.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 women admitted to ...
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Background: A healthy lifestyle plays an important role in promoting good health and preventing deseases.
Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the promotion of healthy lifestyles for women in Kerman, Iran.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 400 women admitted to urban health centers in Kerman during 2014. Data was collected using a questionnaire containing demographic data and a health-promoting lifestyle profile. Scores ranged between 0 and 100. Higher scores indicated healthier lifestyles. The data was analyzed using SPSS software.
Results: The mean age of the participants was 33.94 years. Most were married, unemployed, and had a high school diploma. The mean score for health-promoting lifestyles was 50.62 ± 14.16. Nutrition and physical activity had the highest and lowest scores, respectively. Married women had higher scores in health responsibility and nutrition.
Conclusions: Data from our study revealed the necessity for women to pay more attention to planning healthy lifestyles, especially in terms of physical activity. Since women play a crucial role in shaping their children’s habits, more educational intervention is needed to improve healthy lifestyle habits.
Ebrahim Banitalebi; Zahra Mardanpour Shahrekordi; Abdol Reza Kazemi; Laleh Bagheri; Sadegh Amani Shalamzari; Mohammad Faramarzi
Abstract
Background: Aging is a process in which the body’s physiological capacity continuously decreases after the age of 30. However, interventions such as physical activity can play an important role in the prevention of aging.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of eight ...
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Background: Aging is a process in which the body’s physiological capacity continuously decreases after the age of 30. However, interventions such as physical activity can play an important role in the prevention of aging.
Objectives: The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of eight weeks of combined training (endurance and resistance) in different orders on inflammatory factors and adipokines among elderly females.
Patients and Methods: The design of this study was quasi-experimental. Forty healthy females were selected purposely and randomly assigned to one of four groups including strength after endurance training (E + S, n = 9), strength prior to endurance training (S + E, n = 10), circulation combined (CI, n = 12), and control (n = 9) groups. The training program was performed for eight weeks, three times per week. Within-group differences were analyzed using a paired samples t-test and between-group differences were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA).
Results: The data analysis showed that the between group comparison did not influence the adaptive response of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (P = 0.80), high sensitivity-C reactive protein (hs-CRP) (P = 0.55), adiponectin (P = 0.33), chemerin (P = 0.56), omentin (P = 0.51), leptin (P = 0.10) and vaspin (P = 0.70) levels, yet the within group comparison showed a significant difference in the chemerin concentration in the E+S group (P = 0.03).
Conclusions: The results indicated that three different combined trainings (strength and endurance) had no positive effect on inflammatory factors and adipokines among aged females. However, the different combined trainings, independent of order, were effective training methods in reducing body fat and body mass index (BMI) in aged females.
Abbas Rezaianzadeh
Aliyar Ahmadi
Abstract
Context: Social relations have been found to affect different aspects of people’s life. This article is a systematic review of attempts to consider the social support as a major determinant of health during life span.
Evidence Acquisition: For our research we retrieved data from the J Store, Springer, ...
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Context: Social relations have been found to affect different aspects of people’s life. This article is a systematic review of attempts to consider the social support as a major determinant of health during life span.
Evidence Acquisition: For our research we retrieved data from the J Store, Springer, Wiley Online Library, Elsevier, Science Direct, PubMed database as well-known sources of scientific studies. The study comprised all studies considering social ties and relationships and health outcomes of both genders in different aspects of medical sociology and social epidemiology, with particular emphasis on comprehensive studies to identify the implications of and the effect of social support on women’s health.
Results: The results obtained from this review are presented in three main sections. These include perceived versus received social support, main effect versus buffering effect of social support, and finally the consideration of women’s health. Overall, empirical studies confirm the importance of social relationship to health and longevity and its different implications in women’s health.
Conclusions: To be healthier and more usefully active in the society, women need to have different kinds of support from social relationships. Women are required to be better informed about the significance of enjoying positive social relationships which provide potential health benefits, by social support, from both relatives and other people.
Yasamin Dianat; Mitra Amini; Shirin Ghanavati; Parisa Nabeiei; Mohammad Jafari; Farnaz Takmil
Abstract
Background: Women comprise more than half of the world's population. In different societies, because of different views and attitudes, women are affected by various factors such as culture, customs, religion, economy and etc. Objectives: The present research attempts to determine why medical students ...
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Background: Women comprise more than half of the world's population. In different societies, because of different views and attitudes, women are affected by various factors such as culture, customs, religion, economy and etc. Objectives: The present research attempts to determine why medical students are interested in general medicine and how they seek job satisfaction. In this connection, it is also important to know about the existing problems and barriers and to propose approaches to prevent them. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional study is comprised of female medical students of whom 100 were randomly selected using random numbers table. Data gathering tool was a researcher-made questionnaire including 20 questions. Validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by the medical education academics and its reliability was checked by a pilot study of 20 medical students which was considered 86% according to Cronbachs’ Alpha. The data analysis was done using SPSS version 14. Results: With respect to marital status, 22% and 78% of the participants were married and single 78% were, with their average age being 26 ± 0.98 SD years. Respectively also their job satisfaction mean score was 4.19 ± 1.51 out of 7 which showed no significant association between job satisfaction and marriage and they exhibited positive attitude toward General Medicine (P = 0.639, 0.002). There was a significant association between job satisfaction and attitude of women toward their husbands who were practicing physician (P = 0.018). Conclusions: According to the results of this study, as the majority of the target population comprised women with family responsibilities, stakeholders and other program designers are recommended to provide special facilities in order to increase job and education opportunities for women.
