Climate change poses unique challenges to maternal well-being and increases complications during pregnancy and childbirth globally. This evidence gap map (EGM) aims to identify gaps in existing knowledge and areas where further research related to climate change and its impact on maternal health is required. The following databases were searched individually from inception to present: Medline, EMBASE, and Global Health via OVID; Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) via EBSCOhost; Scopus; and organizational websites. In this EGM, we integrated 133 studies published in English, including qualitative, quantitative, reviews and grey literature that examined the impact of climate change on maternal health (women aged 15-45). We used Covidence to screen studies and Evidence for Policy and Practice Information (Eppi reviewer)/Eppi Mapper software to generate the EGM. Data extraction and qualitative appraisal of the studies was done using critical appraisal tools. The study protocol was registered in International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY) # INPLASY202370085. Out of 133 included studies, forty seven studies were of high quality, seventy nine moderate equality and seven low quality. This EGM found notable gaps in the literature regarding the distribution of research across regions. We found significant research in North America (51) and Asia (40 studies). However, Africa and the Caribbean had fewer studies, highlighting potential disparities in research attention and resources. Moreover, while the impact of extreme heat emerged as a prominent factor impacting maternal well-being, there is a need for further investigation into other climate-related factors such as drought. Additionally, while preterm stillbirth and maternal mortality have gained attention, there is an overlook of malnutrition and food insecurity indicators that require attention in future research. The EGM identifies existing research gaps in climate change and maternal health. It emphasizes the need for global collaboration and targeted interventions to address disparities and inform climate-responsive policies.
ABSTRACT Background The evolving impact of climate change on adolescents' health is a pressing global concern. Climate change's effects on their physical, mental, and social well‐being worsen unique developmental challenges for adolescents. This study aims to map existing evidence, identify gaps, and highlight research and intervention needs. Methods Following Campbell standards, an evidence gap map (EGM) review was conducted. We searched for global studies on adverse climate events and adolescents aged 10–19 using five databases such as Medline, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, and Scopus from September 1946 to June 01, 2023. Two independent reviewers completed the screening using Covidence software, and a critical appraisal of all included studies. EGM was developed using EPPI Mapper software, which presents a comprehensive overview of climate events and their impact on adolescents' health outcomes. This study protocol was registered in the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis (INPLASY) (# INPLASY202410119). Findings We included 44 studies that explored the impact of climate change on adolescents' health. Most included studies were from Asia (35), with limited evidence from Africa, Australia, and South America (one study each). Earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes were the major climate events impacting adolescents' health and well‐being globally (37 studies). However, wildfires, droughts, and extreme heat got less attention. Most studies reported climate change's impact on adolescents' mental health (44), with few studies reporting the effect on physiological and psychosocial aspects of adolescents' health and well‐being (10). Conclusion The systematic examination reveals significant evidence gaps, particularly in Africa, Australia, and South America, and in climate events like wildfires, droughts, and extreme heat. Most studies focus on mental health, with limited research on physiological and psychosocial aspects. These gaps highlight key areas for future research and targeted interventions at the intersection of adolescent health and climate change.
Dissemination plansThe evidence gap map exercise findings will be disseminated to key stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, h e a l t h c a r e p r o v i d e r s , a n d c o m m u n i t y organizations.Dissemination activities may include workshops, webinars, conferences, reports, and peer-reviewed publications.The findings will be presented in a clear and accessible format to maximize their impact and reach a broader audience.
The COVID-19 pandemic led to significant challenges for healthcare providers working with pregnant and parenting youth. However, the impacts of the pandemic on this population and healthcare services from the perspective of healthcare providers are not well documented in Canada. We examined the narratives and experiences of healthcare providers regarding these impacts and explored the challenges to service provision. Using a qualitative interpretative description (ID) approach, we recruited 25 health and service providers from Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia for individual qualitative interviews. Our analysis resulted in three themes: complexities of health service provision during COVID-19, healthcare providers’ accounts of impacts on pregnant and parenting youth, and leveraging challenges into opportunities for service provision. Participants described the influence of pandemic policies and distancing measures on accessibility of health services, availability of healthcare resources and personnel, and well-being of their clients. They also reported increased mental health issues, isolation, and exacerbation of inequities within this population. Providers highlighted the role of telemedicine in ensuring some degree of continuity of care. Additionally, they commented on service adaptations to address the evolving needs of their clients. Our findings underline the need for a resilient and adaptable healthcare system that can better support the needs of vulnerable populations during crises.
Background: The health literacy and numeracy skills of women in Pakistan are very low compared to other low- and middle-income countries. Objective: The aim of this study was to improve the health literacy and numeracy skills of unschooled women in Northern Pakistan by developing a Maternal and Child Health Calendar (MCHC). The MCHC utilizes locally contextualized icons to promote and enhance service utilization and maternal and child health (MCH) outcomes. Methods: We conducted a qualitative exploratory study design to understand the experiences and usefulness of the MCHC among women. We recruited the participants using purposive sampling. Using a semi-structured interview guide, we conducted individual interviews with nine Key informants, that is, Agha Khan Rural Support Staff and Community-based savings group staff and five focus group discussions with unschooled women. We followed Braun and Clarke’s steps to conduct an inductive thematic data analysis. Results: The findings of our study are categorized into the following themes: (1) the benefits of using MCHC, (2) the usefulness of the MCHC in women’s healthcare decision-making, (3) empowerment of poorly schooled women, (4) enabling numeracy and record-keeping skills, (5) MCHC implementation challenges, and (6) participants suggestions to improve the MCHC. Our findings revealed that the MCHC improved the health literacy and numeracy of illiterate or less educated women by using localized images to help them comprehend their own and their children’s health. Additionally, it effectively empowered these women in their healthcare decision-making, such as discussing family planning with their husbands. Women also suggested modifying some images in the MCHC to enhance their clarity and usefulness. Conclusion: The MCHC has the potential to safely and sustainably build basic MCH literacy and numeracy skills among both literate and illiterate women in Northern Pakistan. Further research is needed to assess its potential as a stand-alone intervention to improve MCH outcomes.
Immigrant newcomers and refugees (INRs) are two migrant categories that experience consistent systemic barriers to settlement and integration in Canada as older adults. This paper explores the challenges experienced by Arabic-speaking INR older adults in Edmonton, Canada, during settlement and discusses policy and service implications. A qualitative description study using community-based participatory research principles was implemented to evaluate and support digital literacy in Arabic-speaking INR older adults. We included men and women aged 55 and older who identified as immigrants or refugees and spoke Arabic. Experiences of settlement challenges were consistently identified during data collection and engagement of INR older adult participants. A thematic sub-analysis of interviews with (10 individuals and one couple) of participants’ narratives was completed in 2022 and was used to identify themes related to settlement barriers for this population. Two main themes were identified: (1) Limited English skills and digital literacy gaps create service barriers for INR older adults, and (2) Gaps in services and policies as basic needs remain unmet. We describe key challenges experienced by INR older adults, such as language barriers, precarious finances, poor access to health care services and lack of transportation and employment opportunities, which hinder successful integration into the new society. This study showcases the ongoing challenges with early settlement and integration that continue despite Canada’s well-developed immigration settlement landscape. INR older adults often remain invisible in policy, and understanding their experiences is a first step to addressing their needs for resources that support healthy aging in the post-migration context.
Dissemination plansThe evidence gap map exercise findings will be disseminated to key stakeholders, including researchers, policymakers, h e a l t h c a r e p r o v i d e r s , a n d c o m m u n i t y organizations.Dissemination activities may include workshops, webinars, conferences, reports, and peer-reviewed publications.The findings will be presented in a clear and accessible format to maximize their impact and reach a broader audience.
eview question / Objective This scoping review aims to map the existing literature on using safe youth spaces to promote ASRH and examine the safety and well-being outcomes associated with these spaces for youth aged 15 to <25.The review aims to address the following research questions: What types of safe youth spaces exist for promoting ASRH?What are the safety and well-being outcomes of using safe youth spaces for ASRH?What are the facilitators and barriers to implementing safe youth spaces for ASRH?Are there specific populations or contexts that have been overlooked in literature? Background Adolescents' overall wellness depends on their sexual and reproductive health (ASRH).It covers a young person's emotional, psychological, and social welfare and sexual and reproductive health.However, when trying to get the proper ASRH services and information, young people frequently need help with several difficulties and obstructions.In recent years, safe youth spaces have developed as a promising solution to these issues.A safe youth space refers to a physical or virtual environment where young p e o p l e f e e l p h y s i c a l l y, e m o t i o n a l l y, a n d psychologically secure, and are protected from any form of harm or abuse.These spaces are designed to provide young people with a sense of belonging, where they can engage in activities, socialize, learn and express themselves freely without fear of judgment, discrimination, or violence.Safe youth spaces take many forms, including youth clubs, community centers, schools, online platforms, and other youth-led initiatives the prioritize the wellbeing and safety of young people.These spaces are critical in promoting positive youth development, empowering young people to participate in activity in their communities and become agents of change.Community centres, clubs, internet resources, school-based initiatives, leisure centres, and shelter programmes are examples of safe youth settings.Community centres are locations inside communities that provide young people with various facilities and services, including INPLASY
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