The 6th International Conference on Public Health and Well-being 2024 was successfully held on September 17- 18 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The conference was organized by iConferences, Sri Lanka and Faculty of Medicine, University Andalas, Indonesia the academic partner. The conference featured keynote speeches, panel discussions and oral/poster presentations on various topics related to Public Health and Well-being. The conference also provided networking opportunities for the participants from different countries and disciplines.
A recent conference united experts from various fields to delve into critical issues surrounding public health and well-being. The event brought together researchers, policymakers, healthcare practitioners, and community leaders to explore a broad spectrum of topics including preventive medicine, mental health, health equity, chronic disease management, and the social determinants of health. Keynote speeches, panel discussions, presentations, and interactive workshops highlighted the significance of integrating diverse approaches to address public health challenges. Participants engaged in dialogues on health promotion strategies, healthcare access disparities, innovative public health policies, and the impacts of environmental factors on well-being. The conference emphasized the interdisciplinary nature of public health and its global relevance, particularly in addressing health disparities in underserved regions. Attendees from countries such as USA, Philippine, Japan, Malaysia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, Australia, India, SAU, UAE the UK, Indonesia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the Nepal contributed valuable insights, fostering a collaborative environment aimed at developing comprehensive solutions for enhancing global health outcomes and ensuring equitable access to care.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prabal Bhargava
Keynote Speaker
“Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders- Unique Initiatives”
School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor’s University, Malaysia
Prof. Madya Haliza Abdul
Keynote Speaker
“Building Resilient Communities Towards Climate Change Impacts to The Health”
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University Putra Malaysia, Malaysia
Prof. Janet Hoek
Keynote Speaker
“Tobacco Endgames and Health Equity”
Department of Public Health, University of Otago, New Zealand
Dr. Hannah Degge
Keynote Speaker
“Youth Engagement in Public Health: Strategies for Involving and Empowering Young People”
Faculty of Medicine and School of Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, United Kingdom
Professor Kathleen Young
Keynote Speaker
“Important Elements in Community Organizing and Community Building in Municipal Development”
California State University, Northridge, USA
Professor Rosa Alati
Keynote Speaker
“Mental Health approaches to improving the wellbeing of populations: lessons from Australia”
Head of School, Curtin School of Population Health, Curtin University, Australia
Prof. Dr. Nur Indrawaty Lipoeto
Keynote Speaker
“Local food sources and triple burden of malnutrition in Indonesia”
Faculty of Medicine, Andalas University, Indonesia
Technical Sessions
Session 1 - Epidemiology
The session on “Epidemiology” showcased a range of research studies addressing vital aspects of disease patterns and public health challenges. One presentation examined the “Demographic Characteristics of Patients Referred to Hand Therapy Clinics in Kuwait,” providing valuable insights into patient profiles and potential trends in hand-related health issues. Another study focused on the “Post-Covid-19 Syndrome among Symptomatic Covid-19 Patients in Selected Communities of Bangladesh,” shedding light on the long-term effects of COVID-19 and their impact on recovery and public health strategies. Additionally, research on “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Screening in Communities in Indonesia: Puma Questionnaire Validation Test” explored the effectiveness of screening tools in identifying COPD and enhancing early intervention efforts. The session also included a geospatial analysis of “Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Mortality,” which highlighted spatial patterns and mortality rates associated with this condition. These presentations collectively underscored the importance of epidemiological research in understanding disease dynamics, improving health outcomes, and informing public health policies through innovative and context-specific approaches.
Technical Sessions
Session 2 / 3 - Health Care Management and Health Policy
The session on “Health Care Management and Health Policy” featured a diverse array of research addressing critical aspects of health system resilience, policy effectiveness, and management strategies. One study, “Learnings from the Covid-19 Pandemic to Build Resilient Health Systems in Developing Countries: A Multi-Country Analysis of Actionable Strategies,” provided a comprehensive analysis of strategies that can strengthen health systems in the face of future crises. Another presentation explored “Barriers to Health-Promoting Self-Care Behaviors among First-Year Students at a South African University of Technology,” highlighting the challenges faced by young adults in adopting health-promoting practices. Research on “Effectiveness of a Community-Based Intervention Program in Preventing Adolescent Pregnancy: A Systematic Literature Review” assessed the impact of various programs aimed at reducing adolescent pregnancy rates through community engagement. Additionally, a study titled “Spatial Analysis of Environmental Risk Factors and Health Outcomes in Delhi: A Causal Loop Approach” examined how environmental factors influence health outcomes in an urban setting. The session also included a discussion on the “Development of Telemedicine in the Czech Republic from Patients’ and Other Key Stakeholders’ Perspective,” offering insights into the evolution and reception of telemedicine. Another presentation reviewed the “Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Child Protective Services through the Lens of Administrative Data: A Systematic Review,” analyzing how the pandemic affected child protection systems. Finally, “Communication with Ukrainian Refugees in the Czech Healthcare System: Professionals’ and Intercultural Mediators’ Perspective” addressed the challenges and strategies in facilitating effective communication and care for refugees. These presentations collectively highlighted the dynamic interplay between health policy, management practices, and the impact of emerging global challenges on health systems.
Technical Sessions
Session 4 - Mental Health
The session on “Mental Health” showcased a range of research aimed at understanding and addressing key issues affecting mental well-being. One study, “Unveiling the Prevalence and Factors of Workplace Bullying in Primary Healthcare Settings: A Cross-Sectional Study in Jeddah City, Saudi Arabia,” examined the extent of workplace bullying in healthcare environments and its implications for mental health among healthcare professionals. Another presentation focused on the “Quality of Life among People with Mental Illness Attending a Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic in Ethiopia: A Structural Equation Model,” offering insights into how mental illness impacts daily living and overall quality of life, and identifying factors that can improve patient outcomes. Research on the “Correlation of Tobacco Smoking with Decline in Memory and Attention among Adult Smokers” explored the cognitive effects of smoking, highlighting its detrimental impact on memory and attention. These studies collectively underscored the multifaceted nature of mental health challenges, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions and strategies to enhance mental well-being and address the broad spectrum of factors influencing mental health.
Technical Sessions
Session 5 - Public Health And Human Right
The session on “Public Health and Human Rights” presented a variety of research addressing critical intersections between health, work conditions, and human rights. One study, “Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders and Its Association with Job Satisfaction Among Retail Shop Employees,” explored how job-related physical strain impacts both the health and job satisfaction of retail workers, highlighting important occupational health concerns. Another presentation, “Fostering Inclusivity: A Comprehensive Study of Doctors’ Attitudes Towards HIV in North-West India,” examined how healthcare professionals’ attitudes towards HIV can influence patient care and the broader public health landscape, emphasizing the importance of inclusive and non-discriminatory practices. Research on “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Screening in the Community in Indonesia: Puma Questionnaire Validation Test” assessed the effectiveness of a screening tool in identifying COPD and its implications for early diagnosis and treatment in underserved communities. Additionally, the study “Factors Influencing Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Governmental Primary Care Services” investigated the specific factors contributing to musculoskeletal disorders among healthcare workers in primary care settings, underlining the need for targeted interventions to improve working conditions and health outcomes. Collectively, these presentations highlighted the critical need to address occupational health challenges, promote inclusivity in healthcare, and implement effective screening tools to safeguard public health and uphold human rights.
Technical Sessions
Session 6 and 7 - Disease Prevention and Control
The session on “Disease Prevention and Control” featured a diverse array of innovative research aimed at advancing methods and strategies for managing and preventing diseases. One study, “Efficacy Trial of Artesunat Amodiakuin Combination Therapy in Uncomplicated Falciparum Malaria Patients in Hanura Public Health Center, Pesawaran Regency, Lampung,” evaluated the effectiveness of a combined antimalarial therapy in treating uncomplicated malaria, highlighting advances in malaria treatment. Another presentation, “Development of Gas-Permeable Moulds for Microneedle Moulding with Potential Application in Immunisation,” introduced new technology for creating microneedles, potentially revolutionizing vaccine delivery. Research on “Health Belief Model on Farmer’s Safe Behavior in Using Pesticides: A Qualitative Study” explored the psychological factors influencing farmers’ adherence to safe pesticide use practices, offering insights into behavior change strategies. Additionally, “Leading with UV-Curing Gas Permeable Mold Fabrication of Microneedles Capable of Encapsulating Pharmaceutical Ingredients” demonstrated advancements in microneedle technology with applications in drug delivery. The study “The Effect of Gliding Exercise on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Pain Symptoms among Traditional Hand Embroidery (Tapis) Workers in Lampung, Indonesia” examined non-pharmacological interventions for managing carpal tunnel syndrome in artisanal workers. Research on “Nanostructured Antimicrobial Films from Oligoglucosamine Derivatives Using Biomimetics” presented innovative antimicrobial materials with potential applications in infection control. Another study, “Development of High-Performance Water-Repellent and Antibacterial Nano Projection Plastics by Injection Molding Using Gas Permeable Porous Mold,” highlighted advances in creating functional plastics with protective properties. Lastly, “Migrant Worker Public Health: Insights Through Health Screenings” provided valuable data on the health challenges faced by migrant workers and the effectiveness of health screening programs. Collectively, these presentations underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance disease prevention and control through technological innovations, behavioral research, and targeted health interventions.
Technical Sessions
Session 8- Nutrition and Health
The session on “Nutrition and Health” showcased a range of research focusing on the vital connections between dietary practices, nutritional interventions, and overall health outcomes. One study, “The Human Gut Microbiome in Pregnancy and Early Life: Insights from the Multi-Ethnic Asian Cohorts Gusto and S-Presto,” explored how variations in the gut microbiome during pregnancy and early childhood can impact health outcomes across different ethnic groups. Another presentation, “Digital-Based Surveillance to Detect Stunting: A Systematic Literature Review,” reviewed various digital methods for monitoring and identifying stunting in children, emphasizing the role of technology in improving nutritional health. Research on “Development of a Web-Based Prediction and Intervention Model for Toddlers Stunting (Prestasi Model)” introduced a new online tool designed to predict and address stunting in toddlers, aiming to enhance early nutritional interventions. Additionally, the study “Dietary Intake and Anthropometric Profile in Pregnant Women from the Minangkabau Culture” investigated the dietary habits and nutritional status of pregnant women from a specific cultural background, highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive nutritional assessments. Another poster, “Nutrition Knowledge, Dietary Practices and Interests of Cardiac Rehabilitation Patients to Develop Digital Heart-Smart Resources,” examined the dietary knowledge and needs of patients in cardiac rehabilitation to create tailored digital resources. The presentation on “Improving the Ability of the Kendal Regency Community to Menu Preparation through the Training Program of Gong Ceting” discussed a local training program designed to enhance nutritional practices and food preparation skills. Lastly, the study “Perceived Stress Related to Covid-19 Public Health Measures Among Expatriates in Shanghai, China” assessed how pandemic-related stress impacts dietary behaviors and overall health among expatriates. These presentations collectively highlighted the diverse approaches to addressing nutritional challenges and promoting health through targeted interventions and culturally relevant practices.
Technical Sessions
Poster Session – Behavioral Risks and Public Health
The Poster Session on “Behavioral Risks and Public Health” featured a range of studies focused on understanding and mitigating behavioral factors that impact public health. One poster presented a “Case-Control Study on Risk Factors of Prolonged Symptoms of Covid-19 Among Tertiary Government Hospital Workers,” highlighting the specific challenges faced by healthcare workers in managing long-term COVID-19 symptoms and identifying associated risk factors. Another research examined the “Impact of Vitamin D Supplementation on Common Cold Outcomes among Singaporean Adolescents,” utilizing a population-specific questionnaire to evaluate how vitamin D levels influence cold symptoms and recovery. The potential of “Laboratory-Grown Food and Its Impact on Global Health and Nutrition” was explored, addressing the implications of this innovative food technology for future nutritional strategies and public health. Additionally, a poster on “The Impact of Heatwaves and High Temperature on Mortality Among Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” assessed the health risks associated with extreme heat conditions and their effects on elderly populations. Another study focused on “The Determinants of Tobacco Use: A Qualitative Study of an Urban Population in Nepal,” offering insights into the behavioral and social factors influencing tobacco consumption. Lastly, the presentation on “Gambling Among Secondary School Students in a Portuguese City” explored the prevalence and behavioral patterns of gambling among adolescents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. Collectively, these posters underscored the critical role of behavioral factors in shaping public health outcomes and the importance of addressing these risks through targeted research and interventions.
The Award Ceremony
Session 1 - Epidemiology
Andrew Kindon
“Geospatial Analysis of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Mortality”
Session 2 and 3 - Health Care Management and Health Policy
Dr. Zuhrah Taufiqa
“Spatial Analysis of Environmental Risk Factors and Health Outcomes in Delhi: A Causal Loop Approach”
Session 5 - Public Health and Human Right
Dr Abdelrahim Elmejrab
“Factors Influencing Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders in Governmental Primary Care Services”
Session 8 - Nutrition and Health
Dr. Jia Xu
“The Human Gut Microbiome in Pregnancy and Early Life: Insights from The Multi-ethnic Asian Cohorts Gusto And S-presto”
Poster Session - Behavioral Risks and Public Health
Dr. Zuhrah Taufiqa
“Spatial Analysis of Environmental Risk Factors and Health Outcomes in Delhi: A Causal Loop Approach”
Session 6 and 7 - Disease Prevention and Control
Dr. Diana Mayasari
“The Effect of Gliding Exercise on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Pain Symptoms Among Traditional Hand Embroidery (Tapis) Workers in Lampung Indonesia”
Best Student Presenter
Mattias Wei Ren Kon
“Migrant Worker Public Health: Insights Through Health Screenings”
Best Delegate Presenter
Dr. Jia Xu
“The Human Gut Microbiome in Pregnancy and Early Life: Insights from The Multi-ethnic Asian Cohorts Gusto And S-presto”
