Dataset Information

MHealth use for non-communicable diseases care in primary health: patients' perspective from rural settings and refugee camps.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 85% of deaths in Lebanon and contribute to remarkable morbidity and mortality among refugees and underserved populations. This study assesses the perspectives of individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps towards a population based mHealth intervention called 'eSahha'.

Methods

The study employs a mixed-methods design to evaluate the effectiveness of SMSs on self-reported perceptions of lifestyle modifications. Quantitative data was collected through phone surveys, and qualitative data through focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were performed.

Results

About 93.9% (n = 1000) of respondents perceived the SMSs as useful and easy to read and understand. About 76.9% reported compliance with SMSs through daily behavioral modifications. Women (P = 0.007), people aged ?76 years (P < 0.001), unemployed individuals (P < 0.001), individuals who only read and write (P < 0.001) or those who are illiterate (P < 0.001) were significantly more likely to receive and not read the SMSs. Behavior change across settings was statistically significant (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

While SMS-based interventions targeting individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes were generally satisfactory among those living in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon, a more tailored approach for older, illiterate and unemployed individuals is needed.

Keywords

e-health, refugees.

SUBMITTER: Saleh S

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6294037 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Publications

mHealth use for non-communicable diseases care in primary health: patients' perspective from rural settings and refugee camps.

Saleh Shadi S Farah Angie A El Arnaout Nour N Dimassi Hani H El Morr Christo C Muntaner Carles C Ammar Walid W Hamadeh Randa R Alameddine Mohamad M

Journal of public health (Oxford, England) 20181201 suppl_2

<h4>Background</h4>Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 85% of deaths in Lebanon and contribute to remarkable morbidity and mortality among refugees and underserved populations. This study assesses the perspectives of individuals with hypertension and/or diabetes in rural areas and Palestinian refugee camps towards a population based mHealth intervention called 'eSahha'.<h4>Methods</h4>The study employs a mixed-methods design to evaluate the effectiveness of SMSs on self-reported percept ...[more]

PMID: 30307516

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