1.Socio-ecological Factors Associated with Tuberculosis Infection: A Systematic Review
Dzulfitree Ahmad ; Shamsul Azhar Shah
International Journal of Public Health Research 2025;15(2):2309-2321
Socio-ecological Factors Associated with Tuberculosis Infection: A Systematic Review
Introduction Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health issue and poses a threat to the community with high incidence and mortality, especially in the endemic countries. Social and ecological factors have been known to cause TB transmission. Hence, it is vital to synthesis evidence to adapt to the challenges caused by these factors. As such, this review aims to explore the relationship between TB prevalence and potential social and environmental factors. Methods We searched the electronic databases PubMed, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus between 1st January 2013 and 31st 2024, for studies that met the following requirements: 1) original article investigating the social and environmental determinants associated with transmission of TB and; 2) the study was published in English. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT) assessed the study quality. Results We identified 484 potentially eligible published articles, of which 27 met our inclusion criteria. Findings from this systematic review showed that environmental and socioeconomic factors, mainly housing and living conditions, poverty, air quality and pollution, climate and weather, and water and sanitation infrastructure, influence the dynamics of TB transmission. Conclusion These findings can guide policymakers in improving and strengthening the TB control program.
2.Breastfeeding Under Siege: A Scoping Review of Flood Impacts on Lactating Mothers
Farah Khalida Abdul Rahman ; Rozita Hod ; Mohd Hasni Jaafar ; Idayu Badilla Idris ; Nurfashareena Muhamad ; Dzulfitree Ahmad ; Nurfatehar Ramly ; Nur Aliya Ayub
International Journal of Public Health Research 2025;15(2):2344-2356
Breastfeeding Under Siege: A Scoping Review of Flood Impacts on Lactating Mothers
Introduction Floods, as one of the most frequent and devastating natural disasters, create unique challenges for breastfeeding mothers. However, there is limited understanding of the multifaceted impacts of floods on breastfeeding practices. This review aims to examine the impact of floods on breastfeeding mothers and aims to guide disaster response strategies to support maternal and infant health. Methods A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley framework and the PRISMA-ScR methodology. A systematic search of PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases identified eight studies that met predefined inclusion criteria. Eligibility criteria encompassed peer-reviewed articles with quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods designs. Studies were included if they focused on breastfeeding mothers affected by floods. Results Eight studies from diverse geographic regions reported significant impacts on breastfeeding practices, including environmental hazard, sociocultural, malnutrition and psychosocial impacts dimensions. Displacement and lack of privacy (e.g., overcrowded shelters, absence of breastfeeding-friendly spaces) disrupted feeding routines. Additionally, maternal malnutrition, stress, and unregulated distribution of formula milk further undermined breastfeeding efforts. Conclusions Flood disasters pose significant challenges in terms of environmental hazard, sociocultural, malnutrition and psychosocial impacts on breastfeeding mothers, jeopardizing maternal and infant well-being. Addressing these issues requires integrated disaster response strategies, including breastfeeding-friendly facilities, nutritional aid, and mental health support. These findings underscore the importance of prioritizing breastfeeding in disaster preparedness and response plans to enhance resilience and reduceinfant mortality during crises.

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