The Office of Disease Prevention and Control 10th Journal

The Effects of a Dietary Modification Program on Body Mass Index and Waist Circumference among Individuals with Abdominal Obesity in Kalasin Province

Tipaphon Rachagai — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This quasi-experimental study aimed to examine the effects of a dietary behavior modification program on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference among individuals with abdominal obesity in Kalasin Province. The research employed a pretest-posttest control group design. A total of 70 participants were recruited into an experimental group (n = 35) and a control group (n = 35). The intervention lasted for 12 weeks. Participants in the experimental group received a dietary behavior modification program, which was developed base on the “Original Diet Behavior” and the stage of change Model.

The findings revealed that, after the intervention, the experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in nutritional knowledge, with the median score increasing from 7.00 to 10.00 points. Health behavior scores also improved from 1.00 to 1.60 points. In contrast, the control group showed minimal changes in both domains. Regarding anthropometric outcomes, the experimental group experienced a statistically significant reduction in BMI, from 28.32 ± 3.47 to 26.44 ± 2.91 (p < 0.001), and in waist circumference, from 93.51 ± 9.47 cm to 88.34 ± 9.18 cm. Conversely, the control group exhibited slight increases in both BMI and waist circumference. These results suggest that the dietary behavior modification program was effective in reducing the risk of abdominal obesity. It is recommended that this program be expanded and implemented in other settings. Furthermore, long-term follow-up studies are warranted to assess the sustainability of the improved health behaviors.

A Study of Proper Chemical use for Formalin Residue Reduction in Rumen, Crispy squid, Squid, and Jelly fish

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This experimental study aimed to investigate methods for reducing residual formalin in rumen, crispy squid, squid, and jellyfish using potassium permanganate, charcoal powder, vinegar, and salt. The results revealed that potassium permanganate and charcoal powder were the most effective in reducing residual formalin in food, followed by vinegar and salt, respectively. The results of the experiment to reduce residual formalin in rumen, crispy squid, squid, and jellyfish showed that potassium permanganate and charcoal powder were able to reduce formalin concentrations from levels greater than or equal to 41 ppm to levels less than or equal to 0.5 ppm after soaking for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. Vinegar was able to reduce formalin concentrations from levels greater than or equal to 41 ppm to levels less than or equal to 0.5 ppm in crispy squid and squid, while, in rumen and jellyfish, it could only reduce the formalin concentration by one level from greater than 41 ppm to a range of 21–40 ppm after soaking for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. Moreover, the results also showed that salt was able to reduce residual formalin in rumen and fresh squid by one level from greater than 41 ppm to a range of 21–40 ppm after soaking for 20 and 30 minutes. However, potassium permanganate and charcoal powder affected the color of the food, turning it black and making it unappealing to eat, which may render them unsuitable for practical use. Therefore, to ensure consumer safety, this study recommends soaking food in vinegar for 20-30 minutes and then rinsing it with clean water 2–3 times before cooking. This method is appropriate, effectively reduces residual formalin in food, and does not alter the foods color.

The Effect of a Health Literacy Program on Malaria Elimination among Village Health Volunteers in a Border Area of Surin Province

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the impact of a Health Literacy Development Program on accelerating malaria eradication among village health volunteers (VHVs) in the border districts of Surin Province during the fiscal year 2023. The program, originally developed and implemented in Nong Bua Rawe District, Chaiyaphum Province, was adapted for this study and served as the primary research instrument. A total of 90 participants were included in the study, comprising 45 individuals from high-risk areas and 45 from low-risk areas. Data were collected over three months and included two components: general information and the VHVs’ health literacy related to accelerated malaria elimination. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-tests.

Results showed that participants in both high- and low-risk areas were predominantly female (91.1% and 88.5%), married (71.1% and 68.8%), and engaged in farming (91.1% and 84.4%). Most had completed secondary education (51.2% and 48.9%), with 42.9% and 21.8% having served as VHVs for 11–20 years. Chronic illnesses were reported in 29.2% and 28.9% of participants in high-risk and low-risk areas, respectively. Comparison of mean health literacy scores before and after program participation revealed statistically significant improvements at the 0.05 level in both groups. In the high-risk group, the mean score increased from 133.06 to 144.02, while in the low-risk group, it increased from 131.93 to 146.29. These findings indicate that the program effectively enhanced health literacy. Continued implementation and periodic evaluation are recommended to maintain alignment with changing local contexts and to sustain health literacy related to malaria elimination in both high- and low-risk areas. Future program development should also include assessments of health behavior outcomes.

Prevalence and Factors Associated with Sick Building Syndrome Among Healthcare Workers: A Case Study of a General Hospital in Saraburi Province

Chatchanan Pookaew, Soisuda Kesornthong, Nonthiya Homkham — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This cross-sectional analytical research aims to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) among healthcare workers in a general hospital in Saraburi Province, Thailand. A total of 154 healthcare workers were selected using stratified sampling based on patient service departments. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering individual, occupational, and environmental factors, alongside indoor air quality assessments including physical, chemical, and biological parameters, as well as ventilation evaluation. Descriptive statistics were used to report percentages, means, and standard deviations. Logistic regression analysis was applied to determine associations between these factors and the occurrence of SBS symptoms. The findings revealed a prevalence of SBS symptoms of 28.6% (95% CI: 21.4–35.7). Significant associated factors included the presence of an underlying disease (ORadj = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.32-6.14) and workplace air quality opinions (ORadj = 3.50, 95% CI: 1.60-7.64). These results highlight the importance of health monitoring for healthcare workers with underlying disease and improving indoor air quality in accordance with established standards. Additionally, promoting regular evaluation of occupant satisfaction regarding indoor environmental conditions, particularly air quality, can provide a practical framework for preventing and reducing the prevalence of SBS in healthcare settings.

Epidemiology and Determinants of Malaria Infection among Thai and Migrants in Health Region 1

Kannika Kaewchanta, Rujira Tachan, Danaiporn Kantawong — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Malaria remains a significant public health issue in Thailand. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology and factors associated with malaria infection among Thais and migrants in Health Region 1 between 2020 and 2024. Secondary data were obtained from the Malaria online system of the Department of Disease Control, comprising 5,747 confirmed cases. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests (p < 0.05) were used for analysis. The results indicated that migrants outnumbered Thai patients by approximately 1.4 times. Among Thai patients, males were about 2.5 times more than females, with most aged 25 - 44 years. Among migrants, males were approximately 1.9 times more than females, and most were aged 15 - 24 years. Notably, 96.7% of migrants were of Myanmar nationality. The majority of Thai patients had agricultural careers (19.7%), while most migrant patients were laborers (48.6%). The highest number of cases was reported in Mae Hong Son province. Plasmodium vivax was the most frequently detected species, with peak transmission observed during the rainy season (June - August). Most Thai patients were infected within their residential villages (36.7%), whereas a large proportion of migrants (47.1%) acquired imported cases. In terms of risk-taking behavior, Thai patients were more likely than migrants to sleep under mosquito nets and use mosquito repellent. Statistical analysis revealed that sex, age, history of overnight travel before fever onset, occupation, source of infection, bed net belongings, sleeping under a net, use of mosquito repellent, indoor residual spray in both the patient’s home and areas with high transmission risk, active case detection by blood smear, effective treatment, and follow-up on the commitments were significantly associated with malaria infection. Findings from this study offered important guidance for planning and implementing more targeted areas and robust surveillance systems. With Thailand’s national malaria elimination goals.

The Development of Village Health Volunteers for Surveillance, Prevention and Control of Dengue Fever in Muang Ubon Ratchathani District through Multilateral Participatory Techniques

Aucharaporn Yahad, Monthicha Raksilp, Nopparat Songserm — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This action research aimed to develop and evaluate the capacity building of Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) in dengue fever surveillance, prevention, and control in Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District through multi-stakeholder participatory techniques. The study samples consisted of two groups: 15 participants in the capacity development group (administrators, public health officials, community leaders, VHVs, and community representatives) and 45 VHVs in the evaluation group selected by simple random sampling. Research instruments included context analysis forms, participatory discussion guidelines, assessment forms for knowledge, behavior, and participation (reliability coefficients 0.86, 0.86, and 0.88, respectively), and larval indices assessment forms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, paired sample t-tests, and content analysis. The research findings revealed that the capacity development process comprised 7 activities: 1) situation study and problem analysis, 2) needs analysis through stakeholder network brainstorming, 3) establishment of operational networks, 4) participatory implementation by district health system teams, 5) VHV capacity development, 6) community capacity building using Technology of Participation (TOP) techniques, and 7) dengue prevention campaign activities. The District Quality of Life Development Committee served as the central mechanism for coordination and policy implementation. The capacity development results showed that participants had significantly improved mean scores in knowledge, dengue prevention behaviors, and participation compared to pre-development levels (P-value < 0.001). The House Index (HI) was 13.10, and the Container Index (CI) was 4.17, which are within acceptable levels according to World Health Organization criteria.

Implementation of Latent Tuberculosis Infection in Tuberculosis Contacted Persons. In 11th health region

Kamonwan Imduang — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study employed a retrospective cohort design using secondary data from the Thailand National Tuberculosis Information Program (NTIP) and a structured questionnaire developed by the researcher. The study aimed to evaluate the performance of Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) among TB contacts and identify factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and treatment success among TB contacts in Health Region 11, Thailand. The study population comprised 27,374 TB contacts who were screened for TB through the NTIP database during fiscal years 2021–2023. Results: Of the 27,374 TB contacts, 17,335 (63.32%) were household contacts and 10,039 (36.67%) were close contacts outside the household. The ratio of index TB cases to household contacts was 1:2.2. Abnormal chest radiographs were identified in 1,930 contacts (7.05%), and 696 (2.54%) were diagnosed with active TB. Among contacts aged ≥5 years who voluntarily underwent testing, the LTBI detection rate was 26.28%, comprising 25.93% IGRA-positive and 43.81% TST-positive. A total of 1,768 contacts initiated LTBI treatment. The adherence rates were 96.37% (1,168/1,212) among those aged ≥5 years and 58.36% (600/1,028) among those aged <5 years. The overall TPT completion rate was 89.48%. The highest completion was observed in the 1HP regimen (100%), followed by 4R (97.85%) and 3HP (92.15%). The factors associated with LTBI were significant. Male contacts had a 23.9% lower risk compared to females. Contacts aged 5–14 years (OR = 2.11) and 25–44 years (OR = 1.30) had higher LTBI risk compared with those aged ≥65 years. Moreover, household contacts had a 4.87-fold higher risk than non-household contacts. Regarding treatment outcomes, contacts receiving regimens other than 6-9H (i.e., 3HR, 1HP, and 4R) had roughly 48% lower likelihood of treatment completion. Therefore, the identification and follow-up of TB contacts should be prioritized to enhance early LTBI detection, reduce local TB transmission, and prevent future development of active TB.

The factors associated with health literacy in the prevention of tuberculosis among village health volunteers in Kalasin Province

Pranita Kaewpikul, Pattarawadee Pakdeepang, Thanade Nonsrirach — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Tuberculosis is a contagious disease and a global public health problem. It has been designated as a strategic priority in Thailand's infectious disease control plan. In Kalasin Province, the number of registered TB patients has not yet reached the target of 90%, and proactive prevention and control efforts rely on the mechanism of Village Health Volunteers (VHVs). This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to survey the level and factors associated with health literacy in Tuberculosis prevention among 200 VHVs in Kalasin Province. Data were collected using a questionnaire adapted from a standard tool. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square analysis were used for data analysis, with a statistical significance level set at 0.05. The results showed that most VHVs were female (n=168, 84.00%), under 60 years old (n=134, 67.00%), and had a secondary school education or equivalent (n=128, 64.00%). The average duration of being a VHV was 17.08 years (S.D. ±10.32). The overall health literacy for Tuberculosis prevention among VHVs was at a high level (50.67%), and most components of health literacy were also at a high level. Age and education level were found to be statistically significant factors associated with health literacy (P-value=0.016 and P-value=0.004, respectively). Local agencies involved in Tuberculosis control should design health literacy enhancement programs for TB that are suitable for the age and education level of VHVs to further improve their health literacy in Tuberculosis prevention and control, contributing to the achievement of national tuberculosis strategic goals.

Evaluation of Occupational and Environmental Health Services in Hospitals, Health Region 3

Hansa Ruksakom, Yuphin Inphitak, Arunta Samankul — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The study aimed to evaluate occupational and environmental health services in hospitals in Health Region 3 during 2022–2024. The evaluation used a standardized assessment tool for occupational and environmental health services developed by the Department of Disease Control. Samples were purposively selected from 48 out of 54 participating hospitals (88.88%). Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results showed that the number of hospitals applying for the assessment increased over the study period. In 2024, the largest number of participating hospitals was 29. Center/regional hospitals achieved levels ranging from good to excellent. Most component scores passed, except for Component 4; there were 2 hospitals that did not pass the criteria, which is about the provision of occupational health services. Community hospitals ranged from the initial development level to the very good level. Components 1 and 2 passed every year, but Component 3, proactive service, failed in 2022. All hospitals failed Component 4. The low average scores for the center/regional hospitals were in knowledge management, monitoring environmental risk factors that may impact health, and reactive services. Community hospitals with low average scores focused on research, manual/guideline development, baseline data collection, work environment risk management, environmental and health risk monitoring, health screening for environmental pollutants, and reactive services. Among the 15 hospitals that were assessed in both 2022 and 2024, the average scores for Components 1, 2, 3, and 5 significantly increased (p < 0.05), reflecting improved performance with continued assessment. However, improvements should be made to the provision of reactive occupational health services (Component 4), including reviewing or adjusting the criteria based on hospital assessment results to align with the standards and operations of local hospitals. This leads to policy recommendations for establishing quality criteria for occupational health services in accordance with the Occupational and Environmental Disease Control Act B.E. 2562.