Journal of Health Science of Thailand https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Objectives of the Journal</strong></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">To support the dissemination of academic works and research by medical and public health personnel at all levels</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">To improve the quality of the public health journal to meet the standards of the Thai Journal Citation Index (TCI) and upgrade to the Scopus database in the future</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><span style="font-weight: 400;">To develop a network of public health journals under the Ministry of Public Health to meet the quality standards of the Thai Journal Citation Index (TCI).</span></li> </ul> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Scope of the Journal</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Journal of Health Science of Thailand publishes academic articles on medicine and public health</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Types of articles in the journal</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The journal welcomes academic articles in both Thai and English including: 1) original article 2) review article 3) special article 4) case report 5) miscellany and 6) letter to the editor or correspondence.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Journal Publication Schedule</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Publication of the journal is scheduled for 6 issues per year (every 2 months) as follows: 1) Issue 1 (January-February), 2) Issue 2 (March-April), 3) Issue 3 (May-June), 4) Issue 4 (July-August), 5) Issue 5 (September-October), and 6) Issue 6 (November-December)</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>The process of reviewing articles </strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> All articles must be reviewed by at 2 qualified experts in the field. Before publication, a double-blind review is applied, ensuring that the experts and authors do not know each other's name.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Publication Fee<br /></strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> There are no publication fees at any stage.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Copyright Notice</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> The published articles are copyrighted by the Ministry of Public Health. The statements in each article are the responsibility of the authors and do not reflect the views of the Ministry of Public Health or any personnel not involved with the article.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Access Policy</strong></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> This journal follows an open-access policy, allowing free access to its content to support dissemination of academic works and research, and promote knowledge exchange with the public.</span></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Author Guidelines</strong></p> <p><strong><img src="https://thaidj.org/public/site/images/nataya_659/2.png" alt="" width="800" height="456" /></strong></p> <p><img src="https://thaidj.org/public/site/images/nataya_659/4.png" alt="" width="800" height="456" /></p> <p style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Announcement</strong></p> กระทรวงสาธารณสุข en-US Journal of Health Science of Thailand 0858-4923 EDITORIAL BOARD https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18140 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 CONTENT https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18138 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 FULL ISSUE https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18136 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 Medical Surveillance Guidelines for Workers Who Were Exposed to Organophosphate and Carbamate Pesticides https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16821 <p>Organophosphate and carbamate pesticides are widely used in Thailand’s agricultural sector, posing significant both acute and chronic health risks to workers through inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes. Current medical surveillance in Thailand relies on the “cholinesterase test paper”, a qualitative method with limitations in accuracy that is not fully suitable for a roburst occupational health contexts. This study aims to review the toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics of these pesticide groups, as well as to examine literature on medical surveillance guidelines from four international organizations: the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA, USA), the Health and Safety Executive (HSE, UK), Safe Work Australia, and the Department of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH, Malaysia), in order to propose an appropriate guideline for Thailand. The literature review revealed all organizations recommend measuring blood cholinesterase activity (both acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase) to establish a pre-placement baseline prior to exposure and to conduct regular follow-up testing. Clear occupational health action thresholds are specified when enzyme activity decreases to a defined level (e.g., a reduction to 80% of the baseline value), as well as criteria for return-to-work assessment. In summary, the authors propose a medical surveillance framework for Thai workers, adapted from international best practices and aligned with Thai legislation. This framework encompasses defined procedures for pre-placement health examinations, periodic health monitoring during employment, intervention measures upon detecting abnormalities, and return-to-work evaluations.</p> Thitipon Suksanong Nattanand Chamroonsawasdi Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 958 970 EDITORIAL https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18142 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 777 777 INTRODUCTION https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18139 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 Relationship between Housing Sanitation and Health Status of Residents in Thai Households https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/15250 <p>This cross-sectional study aimed at examining the relationship between housing sanitation and the health status among residents in Thai households, both in urban and urban areas. The study was conducted across four regions, with one province randomly selected from each region. In each selected province, two communities — one urban and one rural — were chosen, totally eight communities. Data were collected using surveys and questionaries from a sample of 1,121 households. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression analysis. The results showed that most of Thai households both in rural and urban areas were detached houses which account for 94.0 and 67.8 percent respectively. Despite a good hygiene and sanitation management, there were some households had poor sanitation and hygiene. This study found that the sanitation factors relevant to the resident health status. For instance, the visual sighting of cockroaches in house associated with respiratory disease both in urban and rural households (OR = 10; 95%CI: 2.48-42.99 and OR = 8.07; 95%CI: 1.08-60.31); and with skin rash (OR = 3.27 95%CI: 1.81-5.94 and OR = 2.65; 95%CI: 1.28-5.47), insecticide chalk using associated with headache both in urban and rural households (OR 14.01 95%CI: 3.92-50.13 and OR = 7.67; 95%CI: 1.42- 41.48), raising a pet in house associated with respiratory diseases both in urban and rural households (OR = 2.24 95%CI: 1.09-4.61 and OR = 3.22; 95%CI: 1.22-8.5 ), keeping trash in home associated with chest pain both in urban and rural households (OR = 2.38 95%CI: 1.46-3.89 and OR = 3.8; 95%CI: 1.06-13.64). Hence, relevant agencies may utilize the finding form this study to raise awareness and build capacity for promote understanding of proper practices, with an emphasis on environmental health management and good hygiene within the household.</p> Panita Charoensuk Nuttawee Loonsamrong Lamai Chai-Ngam Chanajit Pan-Ao Nutta Taneepanichskul Danai Charoensuk Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 779 792 Factors Related to Inappropriate Far and Near Vision Among Circuit Board Production and Assembly Workers: a Case Study of an Electronic Factory in Prachinburi Province https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/17645 <p>inappropriate visual acuity, considering both far and near vision, among 287 circuit board production and assembly workers. Data on personal and working factors were collected using questionnaires, while visual acuity and illuminance levels were obtained from record forms. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. The prevalence of inappropriate far and near vision was 34.49% and 15.27%, respectively. Factors associated with inappropriate far vision included being ages 40 and above (AOR = 0.13, 95%CI: 0.03-0.57, p&lt;0.05), working years of more than 5 years (AOR = 15.44, 95%CI: 3.49-68.33, p&lt;0.05), taking 4-6 breaks per day (AOR = 3.08, 95%CI: 1.40- 6.78, p&lt;0.05), and an average non-digital eye break of less than or equal to 10 minutes per day (AOR = 8.53, 95%CI: 3.91-18.63, p&lt;0.05). Regarding inappropriate near vision, the associated factors were working years of 11–15 years (AOR = 0.04, 95%CI: 0.00-0.30, p&lt;0.05), an average non-digital eye break of less than or equal to 10 minutes per day (AOR = 3.08, 95%CI: 1.40-6.78, p&lt;0.05), and illuminance levels of 401–500 lux (AOR = 7.93, 95%CI: 3.10-20.29, p&lt;0.05). Therefore, employers should provide appropriate illuminance levels and increase the number of daily eye breaks to reduce risks of vision for workers.</p> Supatpong Maneekam Chalobol Treesak Sanpatchaya Sirisawasd Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 793 803 Influence of Exposure to and Attitudes toward Food Brands on High-Energy Food Consumption among Thai Children Aged 10-18 Years https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16819 <p>Food branding promotes the consumption of energy-dense foods among children. This study aimed to examine the associations between sociodemographic factors, exposure to and attitudes toward food branding, and the consumption of energy-dense foods. Secondary data were obtained from the 2023 Thailand Food and Beverage Marketing Monitoring Project, a cross-sectional quantitative study using multistage sampling, with 2,113 participants from 11 provinces nationwide. The data included exposure to and attitudes toward food branding, consumption of seven categories of energy-dense foods, and individual characteristics. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression were used for analysis. The results showed that the most commonly consumed items were sugar-sweetened beverages (92%), followed by snacks (91.3%) and sweets (84.2%). Overall, 81.5% of participants reported exposure to food branding primarily through social media and video sharing platforms, followed by television (71.8%). Exposure to food branding via social media was associated with sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (AOR=1.57; 95%CI: 1.08–2.29). Exposure via outdoor media was associated with the consumption of sweets (AOR=1.90; 95%CI: 1.28–2.83) and flavored milk (AOR=1.38; 95%CI: 1.11–1.71), while exposure via television was associated with fast food consumption (AOR=1.24; 95%CI: 1.05–1.70). In addition, sex, age, and education level were associated with flavored milk consumption, whereas region was associated with the consumption of sweets, instant foods, bakery products, and fast food. These findings highlight the importance of regulating food branding across media channels, and longitudinal studies are recommended to further examine causal relationships and other influencing factors.</p> Nongnuch Jindarattanaporn Salakjit Chuenchom Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 804 815 Definition and Components of Food Safety Literacy: A Delphi Study https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/17276 <p>This research aimed to define the meaning and the components of food safety literacy. The Delphi technique was employed, involving 15 national experts in food safety and consumers. The instruments consisted of open-ended questionnaires in round 1 and rating scale questionnaires in rounds 2 and 3. Data were analyzed using mean, median, interquartile range and percentage to find the consensus of experts. It was found that the components of food safety literacy consisted of 4 main components and 11 sub-components, divided into: Components 1, functional food safety literacy. has 4 sub-components: basic knowledge about food, basic knowledge about food contamination hazards, basic knowledge about food sanitation, and basic knowledge about food labels; Components 2, interactive food safety literacy has 2 sub-components: the ability to ask questions or seek advice about food safety information, and the ability to communicate, exchange, and persuade about food safety information; Components 3, behavioral food safety literacy. It had 2 sub-components: skills, practical abilities, and safe behaviors; and Components 4, critical food safety literacy with 3 sub-components: the ability to evaluate and use food safety information; the ability to make informed food consumption decisions; and the ability to manage budgets and set food goals. The results of this research could be utilized to develop standardized tools for measuring food safety literacy. Furthermore, these findings serve as a guideline for formulating national policies to promote safe food consumption behaviors in Thailand. Enhancing food safety literacy among the population will ultimately help prevent illnesses and diseases caused by the consumption of unsafe food.</p> Teerayoot Mongkolmafai Araya Prasertchai Worrawit Nakpan Sanhawat Chaiwong Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 816 828 Meteorological Factors Associated with the Incidence of Hand, Foot, And Mouth Disease; Melioidosis; Leptospirosis; and Mushroom Poisoning in Chiang Mai Province, Thailand https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16684 <p>Meteorological factors have an impact on the incidence and spread of diseases in Thailand, including Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease (HFMD), Leptospirosis, Melioidosis, and mushroom poisoning. This correlational study aimed to quantify the relationship between meteorological factors and the number of infectious disease cases in Chiang Mai province. Meteorological data were obtained from the Northern Meteorological Center, while reported cases of HFMD, Melioidosis, Leptospirosis, and mushroom poisoning were sourced from the Bureau of Epidemiology, Department of Disease Control. There were 90 months covering the period from January 2017 to June 2024. The statistical analysis was the descriptive statistics, the Shapiro-Wilk test, Pearson’s correlation, and the generalized linear model, analyzed by the jamovi statistical analysis software with the GAMLj - General Analyses Linear Models. The results showed that the best-fit models were the Quasi-Poisson model for HFMD (R² = 0.198, sunshine hours: IRR = 0.786, p&lt;0.05), leptospirosis (R² = 0.198, relative humidity: IRR = 1.060, p&lt;0.05), and the negative binomial model for mushroom poisoning (R² = 0.438, relative humidity: IRR = 1.073, p&lt;0.05; atmospheric pressure: IRR = 0.780, p&lt;0.05).Meteorological factors were associated with HFMD, leptospirosis, and mushroom poisoning in Chiang Mai, but no model was identified for melioidosis. The primary limitation is the use of monthly data, which may not capture time-lagged or daily dynamics.</p> Chatsiri Chatphuti Vadhana Jayathavaj Puttiphong Jaroonsiriphan Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 829 842 The Epidemiological Characteristics and Factors Associated with Severe Symptoms in Patients with Pneumonia Admitted to Chumphae Hospital https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16989 <p>This retrospective descriptive study aimed to study the epidemiological characteristics and factors associated with severe symptoms in patients with pneumonia admitted to Chumphae Hospital. The population were community-acquired pneumonia patients aged more than 15 years old and received inpatient treatment at Chumphae Hospital from January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2023, 956 patients. General and pneumonia information were collected from medical records and hospital information system and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. The results revealed that the most were female (50.10%), elderly a mean age of 63.36 years (SD=18.23 years). Most patients were unemployed (44.04%). COVID-19 vaccination coverage was 18.41%, influenza vaccination coverage was only 2.20%. Underlying diseases (79.29%) hypertension was the most common (45.08%), diabetes mellitus (29.92%). COVID-19 pneumonia had 44.87% of cases. The most symptoms were fever and cough (19.25%), dyspnea (16.95%). The highest admitted in rainy (47.18%). The Chest X-ray findings showed ground-glass appearance (40.59%). Blood cultures and sputum cultures were negative in 51.45% of cases. When positive, Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most identified in sputum cultures. At admission time, 44.46% had non-severe pneumonia, 22.17% had moderate severity, and 9.73% had severe pneumonia. Adverse outcomes after admission 349 patients (36.51%) while 50 patients died, case fatality rate was 5.23% (95% CI: 3.82%–6.64%). The analysis factors associated with severe symptoms in patients with pneumonia by multiple logistic regression statistical significant were p-value &lt;0.05. The significant factors were male gender (AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.16-2.45, p=0.006),age &gt;60 years (AOR = 11.48, 95% CI: 6.52-20.24, p&lt;0.001), chronic kidney disease stages 3-5 (AOR = 2.78, 6.82, and 2.89, 95% CI:1.71-4.50, 2.76-16.86 and 1.26-6.65, p &lt;0.001, &lt;0.001, 0.012 respectively), respiratory rate (AOR=1.16, 95% CI:1.12-1.20, p-value&lt;0.001), oxygen saturation (AOR =0.96,95% CI:0.93-0.98, p-value=0.003) and Hemoglobin level (AOR = 0.84, 95%CI:0.77-0.91, p-value &lt;0.001). Conclusion the factors significantly associated with severe pneumonia at initial admission include: age &gt;60 years, male gender, chronic kidney disease, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation at admission and hemoglobin level. These findings can be used to guide screening and monitoring of high-risk patients in community settings and management for influenza vaccine.</p> Sangdaun Kingkhoiklang Prateep Kankhwao Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 843 856 Health Literacy and Factors Associated with Tuberculosis Prevention Behaviors Among the Elderly in Yasothon Province https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16973 <p>This study aimed to assess health literacy, preventive behaviors, the prevalence of tuberculosis risk groups, and factors associated with tuberculosis preventive behaviors among older adults. A crosssectional analytical study was conducted from October 2024 to September 2025 among 575 individuals aged 60 years and older, selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple binary logistic regression. The results showed that most participants had a moderate level of health literacy (48.5%), while a high level of tuberculosis preventive behaviors was observed (63.8%). The prevalence of tuberculosis risk groups was 62.4% and the highest prevalence observed in the 70–79 age group (68.5%). Marital status and health literacy were significantly associated with tuberculosis preventive behaviors (p &lt; 0.05). Participants who were divorced, widowed, or separated were more likely to engage in preventive behaviors than those who were married (AOR = 1.9, 95%CI: 1.0–3.5). Additionally, participants with high and moderate levels of health literacy were more likely to demonstrate preventive behaviors compared to those with low health literacy (AOR = 3.2, 95%CI: 2.1–5.9; and AOR = 1.5, 95%CI:1.1–2.4, respectively). Despite generally favorable preventive behaviors, health literacy remained at a moderate level, and more than half of the participants were still classified as at risk for tuberculosis. These findings highlight the need for integrated interventions, including targeted screening among high-risk groups particularly older adults aged ≥70 years and those with marital partners along with strengthening health literacy and designing context-specific, family-oriented interventions.</p> Nattaphum Wamalun Nawapat Wannatong Thanom Namwong Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 857 867 Prototype to Assess Growth Development and Nutritional in Early Childhood https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/15618 <p>This applied research aimed to design, develop, and evaluate a prototype innovation for assessing growth and nutritional status in preschool children. The evaluation encompassed efficiency, effectiveness, user satisfaction, and feedback. The research was proceeded in four phases: (1) Design and Development of the Innovation: this involved creating the device base, main body, ultrasonic sensor module for height measurement, and a complementary mobile application capable of analyzing and interpreting data into growth charts. (2) Evaluation of the Innovation’s Efficiency: this phase included calibrating the measurement instruments against standard tools and assessing the device’s accuracy. The prototype demonstrated high validity and no statistically significant difference when compared to standard weighing scales and stadiometers. (3) Evaluation of Effectiveness and User Satisfaction: a total of 50 childcare providers and parents, along with 25 preschool children volunteers, were recruited from preschools around Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima Province. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing satisfaction in three aspects: installation process and ease of understanding, usability, and perceived benefits and satisfaction. The results revealed that users reported the highest level of satisfaction across all aspects, with the highest mean score for perceived benefits and satisfaction (Mean=4.94, SD=0.25), followed by installation process and ease of understanding (Mean=4.53, SD=0.66), and usability (Mean=4.47, SD=0.55). (4) Collection of User Suggestions and Feedback: through interviews, key recommendations were identified, including developing a more user-friendly manual, enhancing the performance of both the device system and the application, and establishing an online user support system. The findings reflect that the developed innovation is practical, efficient, and responsive to user needs, thereby promoting systematic and continuous monitoring of nutritional status in preschool children. This is beneficial for improving children’s long-term quality of life.</p> Bantita Naruemandecha Wisit Kulariyasup Wuttinan Wamakan Ponsing Ninpai Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 868 882 Effectiveness of Reversible Contraceptive Promotion for Repeated Pregnancy Reduction among adolescents at Pakkred Hospital, Nonthaburi in Fiscal Year 2019-2023 https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/15848 <p>This research and development study was conducted at Pakkred Hospital between 2019 to 2023. There were two main objectives. Part 1 aimed to explore the scale of adolescent pregnancy problem, the distribution of adolescent repeat pregnancies, and the factors significantly associated to adolescent repeat pregnancies. Part 2 aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a reversible contraceptive promotion service system among adolescents, which included semi-permanent and temporary contraceptive methods. Both main objectives were performed by collecting secondary data from 414 medical records of pregnant adolescents who had received antenatal care, delivery, or abortion services at the hospital during that period. If an adolescent had multiple pregnancies, the data which collected from last pregnancy were considered an observed pregnancy. The prevalence of rapid repeated pregnancies and the coverage of reversible contraceptive promotion services were assessed as percentages. Factors associated with repeated pregnancies in observed adolescents were analyzed using the Chi-square test, Fisher exact test, correlation analysis, and logistic regression. The first part of the study found that 2.2% (9/414) of adolescents had repeat pregnancies after observation, with 0.96% (4/414) being early repeat pregnancies. 12.1% (50/414) of adolescent observation pregnancies were second or subsequent pregnancies. A significant factor contributing to repeat pregnancies after observation was the use of contraceptive implants. Adolescents who received post-observation contraceptive implants had a 97.9% lower rate of repeat pregnancies than those who did not (OR=0.021, 95%CI: 0.001-0.404, p=0.05). The second part of the study revealed that the reversible contraceptive promotion service system reached 64.7% of pregnant adolescents receiving the service. Pregnant adolescents who received full counseling through the reversible contraceptive promotion service system were 2.4 times more likely to decide to have a post-observation contraceptive implant compared to other contraceptive methods (OR=2.44, 95%CI: 1.04-5.70, p&lt;0.05), and 3.2 times more likely to start contraception immediately before leaving the hospital compared to postponing contraception (OR=3.20, 95%CI: 1.66-6.15, p=0.05). This study leads to the idea of developing a reversible contraceptive promotion service system for pregnant adolescents to include more family members who play a role in the adolescents’ decision-making, in order to fill the gap in preventing repeat pregnancies among adolescents.</p> Punyacha Tangterdchanakit Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 883 898 Effects of a Foot Care Behaviour Promotion Program among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at a Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani Province https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/17296 <p>This quasi-experimental research aimed to examine the effects of a foot care behavior promotion program among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The sample consisted of 58 patients with diabetes mellitus receiving services at the diabetes clinic of Non Noi Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Bung Wai Subdistrict, Warin Chamrap District, Ubon Ratchathani Province. Participants were selected according to the following inclusion criteria: (1) being diagnosed by a physician with type 2 diabetes mellitus, with or without comorbidities, and (2) having no previous history of diabetic foot ulcers. The participantswere randomly assigned by week into an experimental group and a control group, with 29 participants in each group. The experimental group received an 8-week foot care behavior promotion program developed based on Becker’s Health Belief Model, whereas the control group received routine nursing care. The research instruments consisted of a demographic data questionnaire, including age, duration of diabetes mellitus, comorbidities, body mass index, and average monthly income; the foot care behavior promotion program; and a foot care behavior questionnaire. The reliability of the foot care behavior questionnaire, tested using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, was0.78. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chisquare test, paired t-test, and independent t-test. The findings revealed that the mean score of foot care behavior in the experimental group after receiving the program (mean=44.93, SD=5.03) was significantly higher than before receiving the program (mean=38.07, SD=7.48) and significantly higher than that of the control group (mean=38.03, SD=7.00) at the0.01 level. These findings suggest that nurses should apply the foot care behavior promotion program in caring for patients with diabetes mellitus to prevent foot complications and promote continuous self-care behaviors.</p> Amornrat Natason Patcharaporn Anuphan Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 899 913 Comparison of Hematocrit and Microbilirubin Levels at 48 Hours after Cesarean Delivery in Term Infants:Delayed Cord Clamping for 30 Seconds versus Delayed Cord Clamping for 30 Seconds Combined with Umbilical Cord Milking https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/15163 <p>The rate of cesarean delivery in Thailand has been steadily increasing to over 40% of all births, leading to a higher risk of neonatal anemia associated with early cord clamping. Delayed cord clamping (DCC) and umbilical cord milking (UCM) enhance neonatal red blood cell volume and iron stores. However, evidence on DCC combined with UCM among term infants delivered by cesarean section remains limited. The objective of this study was to compare hematocrit (Hct) and microbilirubin levels at 48 hours after birth between term infants undergoing DCC for 30 seconds (n=79) and DCC for 30 seconds combined with UCM (n=70). It was conducted at Sansai Hospital, Chiang Mai, Thailand, from October 2022 to March 2023. Additional analysis used optimal 1:1 propensity score matching without replacement, with a caliper of 0.2 standard deviations of the logit propensity score, resulting in 67 matched pairs. All propensity score covariates achieved an absolute standardized mean difference (SMD) below 0.10 after matching. It was found that the mean Hct was slightly higher in the DCC + UCM group than in the DCC group (51.27±4.99% vs. 50.87±5.27%, mean difference=0.40 percentage points, 95%CI: -1.44 to 2.25, p&gt;0.05, Cohen’s dz = 0.05), without statistical significance. Mean microbilirubin levels were similar (9.36±1.94 vs. 9.47±1.96 mg/dL; mean difference-0.12 mg/dL, 95%CI: -0.90 to 0.67, p&gt; 0.05). Neonatal intensive care unit admission (4.5% vs. 1.5%, p&gt;0.05) and phototherapy (4.5% vs. 6.0%, p&lt;0.05) also did not differ significantly. In conclusion, DCC for 30 seconds combined with UCM was not associated with statistically significant differences in neonatal hematocrit or microbilirubin levels. A randomized controlled trial is recommended to confirm the efficacy and safety of this combined intervention.</p> Wichan Kaewkhiew Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 914 922 High Yield of DNA and RNA in Nucleic Acid Extraction Using Reducing Agents https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16244 <p>Genetic extraction constitutes a pivotal step in biomolecular science. The utilization of reducing agents, such as β-mercaptoethanol, dithiothreitol, tris-2-carboxyethyl phosphine hydrochloride, and dithiobutylamine, in the extraction of genetic material from medical specimens has been shown to result in higher purity and concentration of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA). The objective of this study is to investigate the properties and efficacy of various reducing agents that can be utilized to enhance the process of genetic extraction. Reducing agents play a vital role in the process of disrupting disulfide bonds within the protein structures that encapsulate nucleic acids, thereby facilitating the efficient release of DNA and RNA. In addition, reducing agents have been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes responsible for the breakdown of nucleic acids. At present, reducing agents are frequently utilized in automated nucleic acid extraction processes in conjunction with magnetic nanoparticles, thereby yielding highly concentrated DNA and RNA. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated to exhibit reduced extraction times. In summary, the development and application of reducing agents in the genetic material extraction process will improve the quality and efficiency of nucleic acid extraction, genetic analysis, and medical disease diagnosis.</p> Treewat Watthanachockchai Kingkan Rakmanee Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 923 930 Prevalence and Factors Associated with Shift Work Disorder Among Nurses in a Large Hospital https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/17249 <p>Shift work causes desynchronization between the body’s internal systems and the biological clock, potentially leading to Shift Work Disorder. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with Shift Work Disorder among registered nurses in King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital. This cross-sectional descriptive study involved 384 registered nurses selected via stratified cluster random sampling. Data was collected using questionnaires consisting of personal data, the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX), and the Shift Work Disorder Index (SWDI). Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression. The results revealed a prevalence of shift work disorder of 60.7% among shift-working nurses, representing 53.1% of all participants enrolled in this study. Factors significantly associated with Shift Work Disorder included having an average of more than 5 night shifts per month (AOR=3.66; 95%CI: 1.89-7.07; p&lt;0.001), having an average of 1 to 5 quick returns per month (AOR=2.66; 95%CI: 1.17-6.04; p=0.019), having an average of more than 5 quick returns per month (AOR=4.48; 95%CI: 1.94-10.35; p&lt;0.001), and high perceived workload (AOR=2.54; 95%CI: 1.51-4.26; p&lt;0.001). Conversely, working in the emergency department was identified as a protective factor compared to Inpatient Departments (AOR=0.20; 95%CI: 0.07-0.58; p=0.003). These findings indicate a high magnitude of Shift Work Disorder among nurses within the organization. Work-related factors, particularly night shift frequency, quick returns and high workload, are significant modifiable risk factors. The organization should consider implementing policies addressing these factors to promote nurses’ well-being.</p> Charnarong Khajornsuwan Pornchai Sithisarankul Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 931 942 Development and Validation of the Evaluation Form on the Professional Skill of Primary Medical Care Practicum for Nursing Students: Mixed Methods Research https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/16894 <p>Nurses are healthcare workers with important roles in providing support and solving health problems. Professional skills of the primary medical care practicum for nursing students are necessary for development. Therefore, the nursing program focuses on developing graduates with the knowledge and professional skills of nursing. This study aimed to develop a model of a professional skills evaluation form for nursing students and examine its reliability and validity. Data were collected in two phases. In Step 1, qualitative data were collected through interviews with nurse preceptors, students, and instructors. In Step 2, the quantitative phase, a reliability test was conducted on 184 questionnaires after improving the form. Finally, the reliability and validity of the questionnaire were selected by nurse preceptors. The content validity index was 0.67-1.00. Exploratory Factor Analysis: EFA was conducted with Varimax rotation. The exploratory factor analysis revealed that the evaluation form consisted of 2 factors and 11 items. Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) was 0.864. The cumulative variance contribution rate was 56.43%. The Cronbach’s α coefficient for the total questionnaire was 0.75. Two factors were (1) Holistic medical practice skills, which assess comprehensive care across physical, mental, social, and spiritual dimensions, as well as leadership and teamwork, and (2) Primary medical care skills, which measure competency in history taking, physical examination, initial diagnosis and treatment, counseling, and practicing under legal and professional ethics with cultural sensitivity.</p> Jaruwan Phaitrakoon Ninlapa Jirarattanawanna Sukon Vattanaamorn Copyright (c) 2026 Ministry of Public Health https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5 943 957 COVER https://thaidj.org/index.php/JHS/article/view/18137 Wiwat Rojanapithayakorn Copyright (c) 2026 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 2026-09-14 2026-09-14 35 5