Abstract:

Digital mental health uses technology—like the Internet, smartphones, wearables, and immersive platforms—to improve access to care. While these resources quickly expanded post COVID-19, ongoing issues include low user retention, poor digital literacy, unclear privacy rules, and limited proof of effectiveness and safety. AI chatbots, also known as agents and assistants that act as a therapist or companion, support mental health by delivering counseling and personalized interactions through various apps and devices. AI chatbots may boost social health and lower loneliness, however, they may also increase dependence and affect emotional outcomes. Their use remains largely unregulated, with concerns about privacy, bias, and ethics. Experiences vary; some users report positive results while others doubt their safety and impact, especially in crisis response. There is a need to better protect vulnerable users and engage the underserved, with input from various individuals with lived experience on what feels safe, supportive, or harmful when interacting with AI chatbots. Proper evaluation, standardized training by digital navigators, and ethical/clinical guidelines are crucial for safe, engaging and effective adoption of AI in mental health care and support.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Gynecological and obstetric surgeries carry a risk of urinary tract injuries, which remain important causes of surgical morbidity. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence, etiological factors, diagnostic timing, and management outcomes of urological injuries occurring during these procedures over a 10-year period in a high-volume single-center cohort. Methods: This single-center retrospective study reviewed urinary tract injuries that occurred during gynecologic and obstetric procedures performed between January 2014 and December 2024. Among 16,100 surgeries, 223 cases were identified and analyzed regarding injury incidence, etiology, type, diagnostic timing, and management strategies. Results: Bladder injuries constituted 62.3% of cases, ureteral injuries 28.7%, and genitourinary fistulas 9.0%. Most bladder injuries (98.6%) and the majority of ureteral injuries (68.8%) were recognized intraoperatively (p < 0.001). Bladder injuries were most frequently associated with cesarean section, whereas ureteral injuries were more common in malignant gynecologic surgeries (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Early recognition and timely intervention remain critical to reducing morbidity associated with iatrogenic urinary tract injuries. These findings underscore the importance of anatomical knowledge, meticulous surgical technique, and appropriate diagnostic evaluation to optimize perioperative outcomes in gynecologic and obstetric surgery.

Abstract: According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are the most common occupational disease worldwide, frequently affecting agricultural workers due to the physical demands of their labor activities. In this context, a descriptive, relational, cross-sectional study was conducted in rural communities of Loja, Ecuador, with the aim of determining the prevalence of MSDs and their relationship with sociodemo-graphic and occupational factors among agricultural workers. The sample consisted of 103 farmers who completed the Standardized Nordic Questionnaire (NMQ). The results showed a high prevalence of MSDs in this population, with symptoms reported over the past 12 months, particularly in the neck, lower back, and knees. Furthermore, a statis-tically significant association was observed between the presence of MSDs and BMI. In conclusion, MSDs represent a frequent health problem among farmers, highlighting the need to implement preventive strategies and occupational health promotion programs in rural communities.

Abstract: Background and objectives: Research into clinicians' and pharmacists' experiences and perspectives on direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) use in Saudi Arabia and the broader Middle Eastern area is limited. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the perspectives and experiences of physicians and pharmacists practicing in Saudi Arabia who prescribe DOACs and dispense DOAC therapy, respectively. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken utilizing an online survey instrument. We collected data via Google Forms. Between June and July 2024, the study questionnaire was distributed to community pharmacists, general practitioners [GPs], cardiologists, residents in internal medicine, and hospital pharmacists (primary and secondary healthcare professionals) working in Saudi Arabia. Results: Comprising 146 doctors and 167 pharmacists, 313 total healthcare professionals participated in the study. Of the weekly DOAC prescriptions, cardiologists had the most at 35%; internal medicine residents came next at 16.3% and general practitioners at 17.5%. Among pharmacists, 16.7% of community pharmacists and 23.9% of hospital pharmacists dispensed DOACs weekly. The most often prescribed and dispensed medications were rivaroxaban, edoxaban, and apixaban. Across all categories, Lexicomp was the most often used tool. Most respondents (98%) said they lowered the DOAC dose, when necessary. Especially in dosing, preoperative care, patient education, and medication interaction identification, internal medicine residents and hospital pharmacists expressed more confidence in managing DOACs. In these domains, community pharmacists expressed less trust. Conclusion: This study revealed that most participants preferred newer oral anticoagulants over warfarin and demonstrated a fairly good level of self-perceived knowledge regarding various aspects of the clinical use of DOACs. The study findings highlight the importance of focused training initiatives to standardize the use of DOACs, boost trust among community pharmacists and GPs, and ensure the safe and effective patient care.

Abstract: Dengue outbreaks highlight the need to quantify how environments sustain populations of the mosquito vectors Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus. Most control activities focus on households, while non-residential premises receive little attention. We conducted a cross-sectional ovitraps survey in August 2025 in Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico, deploying 593 ovitraps: 297 in residential neighborhoods and 293 in non-residential sites. We collected 42,758 eggs; 61.5% (n = 26,316) came from residential areas and 38.5% (n = 16,442) from non-residential areas. Ovitrap positivity was higher in residential versus in non-residential areas (92.6% vs. 87.0%; p = 0.025), and the mean number of eggs per ovitrap (88.6 ± 5.1 vs. 56.1 ± 3.3 eggs; p < 0.001), yielding 298.0 vs. 175.3 eggs/ha, respectively. From a subsample of 16,965 eggs, 7,543 adults emerged (44.5%), dominated by Ae. aegypti in residential areas (83.3%) and Ae. albopictus in non-residential areas (80.0%). Vector burden differed by species: Ae. aegypti densities were higher in residential areas (51.0 vs. 4.5 adults/ha), whereas Ae. albopictus densities were higher in non-residential sites (18.2 vs. 10.2 adults/ha). These patterns show that both residential and non-residential premises are important sources of dengue vectors and should be included in integrated surveillance and control strategies.

Abstract: Introduction: World Health Organization (WHO) through its current Global Benchmarking Tools (cGBT) used in the self-assessment of regulatory authorities, found that regulatory functions in general and laboratory testing in particular in countries with low regulation are not compliant with ISO/IEC 17025:2017 and WHO Trs No. 957, 2010. It was noted that, to date, in sub-Saharan Africa, fewer than 10 countries have authorities that have reached at least Maturity Level 3. Objective: This study aimed to verify pharmacopeial methods in the detection of falsified medicines in accordance with ICH Q2(R1) requirements at in the D.R. Congo through a laboratory compliant with the ISO standard, estimated at maturity level 3. Methodology: Five concentration levels were prepared: 110%, 100%, 90%, and 80%, from the stock solution corresponding to 120% for the APIs (6 antimalarials and 1 antibiotic) allowed to identify non-compliant samples during the period from 2021 to 2024. Results: The methods, verified in compliance with ICH and WHO normative requirements, were deemed compliant and applicable under the applied conditions. And the non-compliant products were detected: 7/41 (17.1%) for Artemether & Lumefantrine, 3/11 (27.3%) for Sulfadoxine & Pyrimethamine, 1/46 (2.2%) for injectable Artesunate and 5/41 (12.2%) for Artemether & Lumefantrine (without any active ingredient). Conclusion: This research aimed to verify the relevance of pharmacopeial methods currently used in DR Congo for quality control to the ICH and WHO requirements with perspective of tackling medicines falsification. The obtained results showed the compliance of studied methods and allowed to identify substandard products for Artemether-Lumefantrine and Sulfadoxine and Pyrimethamine combinations. Also, they allowed the detection of lower concentration of Artesunate within injectable formulations. Which confirmed the real existence of the announced issue related to the falsified drugs circulation in developing countries.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Parental mental health challenges are associated with parenting difficulties and child mental health issues. Parenting interventions can support families, however, parents with mental health challenges face barriers to accessing parenting support, which is not consistently offered within adult mental health settings. Embedding technology-assisted parenting programs into these settings could provide accessible, holistic support. Partners in Parenting Kids (PiP Kids) is a digital parenting program designed to prevent child anxiety and depression, yet its suitability for parents with mental health challenges and fit within mental health services remains unclear. This study aimed to co-design and adapt PiP Kids for implementation in an Australian adult mental health service. Methods: Parents who recently sought mental health support (n=8) and service providers (n=7) participated in co-design workshops to explore needs and preferences for a technology-assisted parenting program and iteratively develop a prototype. Parents (n=3) trialled the online component of the prototype and participated in qualitative interviews to assess acceptability. Results: The adapted clinician-supported program was designed to facilitate 1) parent and clinician readiness for parenting support, 2) emotional and social support for parents and clinicians, 3) practical, personalised parenting knowledge, 4) parent-led empowerment and 5) accessible, integrated support. Prototype clinician training was developed to strengthen the clinician-support component. Parents indicated acceptability of the online prototype while reiterating the value of including face-to-face support. Conclusions: This study provides preliminary support for adapting and embedding technology-assisted parenting programs within adult mental health settings. Findings highlight key considerations for developing and implementing technology-assisted interventions that promote family-focused care for parents seeking mental health support.

Abstract: The implementation of COVID-19 vaccination in the United States has revealed substantial disparities driven by geography, socioeconomic status, and political ideology. This study explores how these factors were associated with vaccination intake across 360 counties within four U.S.-Mexico border states with distinct socio-political traits. Using regression analysis and GIS mapping, it evaluates the effects of income, education, employment, age, race, ethnicity, occupation, metro status, border status, and political affiliation on first-dose, full vaccination, and booster rates. First-dose rates were found to be significantly higher in border counties (β = 11.184, p < 0.001) and metropolitan areas (β = 2.246, p = 0.040). Democratic population (β = 0.644, p < 0.001) and per capita income (β = 0.950, p = 0.002) were positively associated with the vaccination. Complete-dose vaccination showed significant results similar to those of the first-dose model. Booster was positively associated with Democratic affiliation (β = 0.206, p < 0.001), high school graduation level (β = 0.172, p = 0.007), and the proportion of individuals aged 65 plus (β = 0.484, p < 0.001). In contrast, it was negatively associated with unemployment rates (β = −0.410, p < 0.001). Race and ethnicity also were related to vaccination outcomes: A higher Black population share was linked to lower first-dose vaccination rates (β = −0.386, p < 0.001), whereas Native American population share was associated with increased vaccination. Booster intake increased with a higher Asian population (β = 0.383, p = 0.001) but slightly declined with a higher White population (β = −0.071, p = 0.019).

Abstract: Background: Iranian sexual and gender minorities face criminalization, surveillance, and stigma, and existing measures of belonging and resilience are fragmented.Methods: We conducted a theory-driven narrative review coupled with a structured secondary synthesis of published quantitative studies on Iranian sexual and gender minorities. We developed a five‑anchor analytic framework—Subjectivity, Groundedness, Reciprocity, Dynamism, and Self‑determination—mapped reported indicators (e.g., internalized stigma, depression, suicidality, policing/arrest risk, peer support, emotional inhibition) to anchors, extracted summary statistics as presented in primary studies, and produced anchor‑specific narrative syntheses. No new human participants were recruited.Findings: Evidence converged on compromised Subjectivity (consistent associations between internalized stigma and depression), fragile Groundedness (very high suicidal ideation in transgender samples), protective Reciprocity (peer support associated with counter‑normative action), and coercion‑shaped Dynamism (identity/expression‑linked arrest and harassment structuring visibility). Self‑determination reflected autonomy trade‑offs, including psychological costs of concealment and heightened emotional inhibition. The mapping validates and operationalizes the five‑anchor model.Conclusions: The framework offers an operational, ethically cautious template for quantifying belonging, risk, and resilience in criminalizing settings and can guide safe measurement, reporting, and service design for communities under repression and for diaspora services.

Abstract: Melasma management is challenged by heterogeneity in patient presentation, particularly among individuals with darker skin tones. This study applied k-Means clustering to identify patient subgroups that could inform precision treatment approaches. We analysed clinical and demographic data from 150 South African women with melasma using k-Means clustering. The optimal number of clusters was determined using the Elbow Method and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), with t-SNE visualization for validation. The k-Means algorithm identified seven distinct patient clusters explaining 52.6% of data variability (R²=0.526), with model evaluation metrics including BIC=951.630 indicating optimal model fit and a Silhouette Score of 0.200 suggesting moderate cluster separation, while the Calinski-Harabasz index of 26.422 confirmed relatively well-defined clusters that were characterized by distinct profiles including "The Moderately Sun Exposed Young Women," "Elderly Women with Long-Term Melasma," and "Younger Women with Severe Melasma," with key differentiators being age distribution and menopausal status, melasma severity and duration patterns, sun exposure behaviours, and quality of life impact profiles that collectively define the unique clinical characteristics of each subgroup. This study demonstrates how machine learning can identify clinically relevant patient subgroups in melasma. Aligning interventions with the characteristics of specific clusters can potentially improve treatment efficacy.

Abstract: The H5N1 subtype of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) poses a major zoonotic threat due to its high fatality rate and capacity for cross species transmission. In early 2025, Argentina detected a novel triple reassortant A(H5N1) virus in Chaco Province, combining Eurasian, North American, and South American lineage segments. Genomic analyses of subsequent outbreaks in Buenos Aires and Entre Ríos confirmed persistence of this reassortant and additional HA substitutions (T204K, P251S) potentially linked to increased mammalian receptor affinity. Although PB2 sequences lacked canonical mammalian-adaptive markers (E627K, Q591K, D701N), all contained I292M, a mutation associated with human adaptation. Phylogenetic analyses revealed distinct genotypes and increasing divergence. These findings indicate ongoing viral evolution and adaptation within Argentina, emphasizing the urgent need for sustained genomic surveillance, timely data sharing, and integrated One Health strategies to mitigate zoonotic and socioeconomic risks associated with H5N1 spread in South America.

Abstract: Food adulteration has become one of Bangladesh’s most urgent public health and governance challenges, affecting everything from everyday groceries to street foods. This review draws on secondary research to examine why the problem persists, revealing a system driven by profit incentives, weak oversight, and poor consumer awareness. Adulteration thrives at wholesale and processing stages, where harmful chemicals, dyes, and fillers are routinely introduced into essential foods, leading to rising rates of poisoning, chronic illness, and long-term organ damage. The crisis also undermines economic stability, erodes public trust, and disproportionately harms low-income communities. Although Bangladesh has established regulatory structures like the BFSA, persistent gaps in funding, laboratory capacity, coordination, and enforcement limit their effectiveness. The study proposes a path forward anchored in stronger institutions, specialized courts, modern testing and traceability technologies, farm-to-fork certification, and greater public transparency. Meaningful reform requires collective responsibility across government, industry, and society.

Abstract: Background: University students are often exposed to environments that encourage unhealthy eating, but universities can promote better health and sustainability by making sustainable food options more accessible. Methods: Temporal changes in dietary patterns and environmental footprints of 1684 students at the University of Rijeka, Croatia, over a 16-year period (2009-2025) were retrospectively analyzed using data from three cross-sectional studies. Results: A significant transition toward less sustainable diets, increased consumption of animal-based foods, and proinflammatory eating habits was observed (both p< 0.001). Adherence to the Mediterranean and Planetary Health Diet declined over time (p< 0.001), followed by increased prevalence of overweight and obesity. Consumption of most food groups increased, leading to higher water and ecological footprints. Only the intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish declined, which corresponded with reduced carbon footprints for these and a few other food groups, while the environmental impact of other foods significantly increased (all p < 0.001). Gender, diet quality, and a proinflammatory diet were significant predictors of dietary environmental footprints. Conclusion: The findings underscore the need for systemic changes and addressing barriers at the university level to support sustainable eating behaviors. The study offers valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and researchers who aim to help students become health-conscious and environmentally responsible consumers. Further research is needed to explore the broader factors influencing dietary choices and the long-term impact of future institutional interventions.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Radiotherapy for head and neck cancer (HNC) compromises tissue vascularization and may delay post-extraction socket healing, with osteoradionecrosis (ORN) being a severe potential complication. Autologous platelet concentrates (APCs—including PRP, PRGF, PRF, A-PRF, and L-PRF) have been proposed to enhance mucosal and bone regeneration. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of APCs applied to extraction sockets in irradiated HNC patients. Materials and methods: A comprehensive search was conducted in MEDLINE (via PubMed), CENTRAL (Cochrane), and OpenGrey for studies published between January 2010 and June 2025. Eligible studies included randomized and non-randomized controlled trials comparing APCs with standard care or placebo in adults who had previously received radiotherapy. The primary outcome was the incidence of ORN; secondary outcomes included postoperative pain, wound closure (WC), healing index (HI), residual socket volume (RSV), edema, and other complications. Results: Four RCTs (95 patients; 315 extractions) were included. Postoperative pain levels were low and comparable between APC and control groups. ORN events were rare. One split-mouth trial found faster WC and lower RSV with PRGF, while others showed no clinically relevant medium-term differences. Study limitations included small samples, heterogeneity in APC types and outcomes, and incomplete follow-up. Conclusions: APCs may be safe in irradiated HNC patients, but current evidence remains inconclusive and suggests only modest or uncertain benefits over natural healing. Larger, standardized RCTs with extended follow-up are needed.

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Introduction: Community preparedness for earthquakes is a crucial aspect of disaster risk reduction (DRR). Spiritual factors are considered a component that influences how communities perceive risks, respond to threats, and recover after a disaster. Research Method: This study aims to analyze the role of community spiritual aspects in earthquake preparedness through a review of international and national literature published in 2010–2024. Result: The results of the study show that spirituality plays a role in shaping risk perception, increasing psychological coping abilities, strengthening social capital, expanding the function of religious institutions, and supporting the post-disaster recovery process. Conclusion: Integrating a spiritual approach into community-based DRR programs can be an effective strategy in strengthening the social and psychological resilience of communities living in earthquake-prone areas.

Abstract: This comprehensive narrative review investigates the function of sophisticated artificial intelligence algorithms, with particular emphasis on transformer-based architectures like GPT, in the analysis of human behavior within multifaceted domains, concentrating specifically on financial markets and the management of epidemics. The analysis delineates the chronological evolution from fundamental behavioral paradigms, such as prospect theory and the Health Belief Model, to modern AI-enhanced analytical methodologies that encapsulate intricate behavioral tendencies. Key trends in contemporary scholarly investigations underscore the increasing employment of cross-domain insights, facilitating the transference of models and algorithms from the financial sector to public health and other fields. Thorough assessments clarify the benefits in forecasting precision and flexibility, while also bringing attention to limitations related to data representation, model clarity, and moral considerations. Recognized weaknesses underscore the requirement for sustained validation regarding cross-disciplinary transfer, the combination of assorted data origins, and the implementation of transparent and fair AI frameworks. Practical examples show how AI-enhanced behavioral analysis can strengthen decision-making, refine risk management, craft intervention strategies, and influence policy creation, illustrating the value of such technologies in our community. The analysis ultimately determines that, although considerable advancements have been achieved, tackling the outstanding obstacles will augment both the empirical strength and pragmatic applicability of AI-facilitated behavioral modeling. These insights underscore the potential of blending diverse AI approaches to merge theoretical knowledge with hands-on application, thus laying a robust groundwork for future investigative efforts and community impact.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological disease characterized by demyelination, inflammation, and autoimmunity, leading to progressive physical and psychological impairments. Anxiety and depression are among the most prevalent neuropsychiatric comorbidities in MS, significantly impacting patients’ quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to assess the evolution of anxiety and depression in individuals with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) over a six-month follow-up period, identify associated factors, and explore predictive variables. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 35 RRMS patients diagnosed at the Lucus Augusti University Hospital between January 2023 and March 2025. Psychological symptoms were assessed at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months using Goldberg Anxiety and Depression Scale (GADS), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Data were analyzed using non-parametric and parametric tests to account for the small sample size and distribution of variables. Results: Anxiety and depression were prevalent and persistent in the study population, with no significant changes in mean scores over time (p &gt; 0.05). However, specific symptoms, such as pessimism and loss of pleasure, showed worsening trends, while sadness and guilt remained stable. Sociodemographic factors, including lower income and employment status, were significantly associated with higher anxiety and depression scores (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, clinical factors such as autoimmune comorbidities and a history of mononucleosis were linked to higher depressive symptoms. Baseline anxiety and depression scores emerged as strong predictors of future levels (p &lt; 0.01), emphasizing the importance of early assessments. Conclusions: Anxiety and depression are prevalent and persistent in RRMS patients, with specific symptoms fluctuating over time. Sociodemographic and clinical factors play a significant role in psychological outcomes, highlighting the need for integrated care models that address both physical and psychosocial aspects of MS. Early psychological assessments and targeted interventions are critical to improving QoL and mitigating the long-term burden of mental health challenges in RRMS.

Abstract:

Background/Objectives: Urinary incontinence (UI) is common among women practicing sports, particularly those involving heavy lifting or high-impact movements that increase intra-abdominal pressure. UI can negatively affect social life, self-confidence, and motivation to remain active. This study aimed to examine the associations of sociodemographic, training-related, obstetric and surgical factors with UI in female weightlifters. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 84 French women regularly practicing weightlifting. Participants completed a sociodemographic and gynecological questionnaire, along with the Urinary Symptom Profile (USP). Data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U, Student’s t-test, Chi-square, and Fisher’s exact tests (95% confidence level). Results: Among participants (aged 15–49 years), 51 (60.7%) reported involuntary urine leakage, and 31 (36.9%) scored 1–3 on the USP stress incontinence subscale. Most participants were non-smokers (73.8%), with a median of 3.5 years of weightlifting experience, 4 weekly training sessions, and 6–7 competitions per year. No significant associations were found between UI and sociodemographic factors, obstetric history, previous surgeries, or training characteristics. Maximal lifts in Clean & Jerk and Snatch exercises were also similar between participants with and without UI. Slight trends suggested higher UI prevalence among women with vaginal deliveries, episiotomies, or vaginal lacerations. Conclusions: UI is common among female weightlifters, but in this study, was not associated with sociodemographic factors or weightlifting practices. These findings indicate that UI prevalence cannot be explained by the variables studied and highlight the need for further research into other potential contributing factors.

Abstract: Background/Objectives: Family caregivers of individuals with dementia frequently experience substantial psychological distress, yet their emotional responses are heterogeneous. Depression, anxiety and psychological well-being may co-occur in distinct patterns, and socio-economic resources such as education and income are often hypothesized to buffer caregiver distress. This study aimed to identify latent psychological profiles among dementia caregivers and to examine whether education and income moderate the association between affective symptoms and well-being. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 73 family caregivers of dementia patients attending the Neurology–Psychiatry Department of C.F.2 Clinical Hospital, Bucharest (November 2023–April 2024). Participants completed the PHQ-9 (depression), the COVI Anxiety Scale and Ryff’s Psychological Well-Being Scales. Care recipients’ cognitive status was extracted from medical records using the MMSE. Gaussian Mixture Modeling was used for latent profile analysis (LPA). Between-profile differences were examined using one-way ANOVAs and Tukey post-hoc tests. Pearson correlations assessed relationships between affective symptoms and well-being, and moderation analyses tested education and income as potential buffers. Results: LPA supported a three-profile solution: (1) low depressive symptoms with moderate anxiety (33%), (2) severe combined depression and anxiety (18%) and (3) moderately severe depression with severe anxiety (49%). Group differences were large for both depression (F(2,70) = 36.16, p < .001, η² = .68) and anxiety (F(2,70) = 73.33, p < .001, η² = .81). Caregivers in Profile 3 reported significantly higher overall well-being than those in Profile 1. Depression correlated weakly but significantly with lower autonomy (r = .24, p = .044) and self-acceptance (r = .25, p = .033), whereas anxiety showed no meaningful associations with well-being. Education and income did not moderate the relationships between affective symptoms and well-being. Conclusions: Dementia caregivers exhibit three distinct psychological profiles, reflecting heterogeneous affective responses rather than uniform distress patterns. Socio-economic resources did not significantly buffer the impact of depressive or anxiety symptoms on well-being, although higher education showed a positive association with overall well-being. These findings underscore the need for individualized screening and tailored psychological interventions to support caregiver mental health.

Abstract:

Background: Ostomy care consultations are essential for promoting patient autonomy and quality-of-life. The integration of innovative technologies may enhance health education and support effective self-care among ostomized patients. Objective: To analyze the impact of health education supported by smart-glasses on the quality of life of ostomized patients. Methods: This is a Pre—post study. A single 60-minute intervention was conducted with 14 ostomized patients (mean age: 57.6±12.6 years; 50% male). The session comprised three phases: (1) assessment of patient knowledge on ostomy management; (2) personalized feedback addressing individual needs; and (3) a hands-on workshop using Vuzix smart-glasses to provide a first-person perspective of ostomy care techniques. Four instructional videos were recorded and made available via a digital platform. Results: At baseline, patients reported moderate limitations in physical function and physical role. General health and vitality indicated fair-to-good perception, while mental health was adequate in 57.1% of participants. Following the intervention, SF-36 score improved significantly, with 53.8% reporting a very good quality of life. Physical function increased with 84.6% rating it as good or excellent. Emotional role improved markedly, and mental health reached 76.9% reporting optimal scores. A strong correlation was observed between baseline and post-intervention SF-36 scores. Conclusion: The integration of smart glasses into health education within nursing-led ostomy consultations significantly improved the quality of life of ostomized patients following digestive surgery.