Browsing by Autor "Katja Radon"

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1361 Association between perceived demands and barriers and work-related strain in school-teachers in chuquisaca, bolivia
(2018) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Anabel Schön; Manuel Parra; Katja Radon
<h3>Introduction</h3> Teaching environments can influence performance and health of teachers. In Latin America little research was done to explore teaching conditions and health. The objective was to assess demands and barriers for teaching and work-related strain in school-teachers in Chuquisaca, Bolivia. <h3>Methods</h3> Cross-sectional study was conducted in sixty randomly selected schools (August to November 2015). All teachers (1062) were invited to participate (response 56%). Teaching demands and barriers were explored through a set of questions previously used by UNESCO-OREALC (4-points Likert scales). Demands included sociocultural differences, indiscipline, learning problems, desertion, and repetition. Barriers explored about lack of student families and colleagues support, poor social and economic conditions, lack of pedagogical support and leadership of the director. A validated version of the irritation index (7-points Likert scale) was used to explore work-related strain (emotional and cognitive irritation). Scores for demands, barriers and irritation were added and dichotomized in lower (1 st and 2nd) and upper (3rd) tertiles. Crude and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals for work-related strain were estimated through logistic regression models. Missing data was imputed using chained equations imputation method. Sensitive analysis was performed using imputed and non-imputed data. <h3>Results</h3> Most of teachers were female (72%), in public schools (81%), exclusively in primary level (48%). About one-third of teachers (37%) have bachelor or postgraduate training (37%). Teaching in primary level (adjusted OR 2.21; 95% CI: 1.4 to 3.6) and high academic barriers (1.73; 1.1–2.8), were statistically significant risk factors for work-related strain. University graduated teachers had lower risk (0.6; 0.4–0.9). <h3>Discussion</h3> Structural barriers seem to play an important role in work-related strain in teachers, while they are able to cope with pedagogical demands. Comprehensive actions need to be taken considering families and social resources in order to take care of teachers’ physical and mental health for a better performance.
Association between environmental factors and current asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema symptoms in school-aged children from Oropeza Province – Bolivia: a cross-sectional study
(BioMed Central, 2013) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Armando Patiño; Dennis Nowak; Katja Radon
Associations between effort–reward imbalance and health indicators among school teachers in Chuquisaca, Bolivia: a cross-sectional study
(BMJ, 2019) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Anabel Schön; Manuel Parra; Katja Radon
Our results indicate the urgent need to improve psychosocial working conditions among Bolivian school teachers, in order to promote their health and well-being.
Development of a Project to Strengthen Environmental Education in Educational Institutions in Bolivia: “Environmental Care with a One Health Approach”
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2025) Carlos Fernando Gonzales Ortiz; Apolonia Rodríguez-Gonzales; Katja Radon; María Teresa Solís-Soto
In response to the urgent need for environmental education in the world, the Environmental Care with a One Health approach (ECOH) project aimed to promote sustainable environmental practices in educational institutions in Sucre, Bolivia. The ECOH project was implemented in four phases: (1) building alliances with local leaders and communities; (2) identifying practices and perceptions of the environmental situation among the general population and educational units (Online survey); (3) implementing educational interventions; and (4) disseminating educational materials. During the second phase, most of the participants (86%) identified the local environmental situation as poor and waste and solid waste management (SWM) as the main concern (64%). Although 70% of the participants were interested in environmental issues, only 44% practiced waste separation. Considering this, and the feasibility of implementing subsequent actions, educational interventions on SWM were developed in schools, and waste sorting bins were delivered. Educational materials were distributed through social networks, and a mobile app was launched to increase outreach. The project promoted cross-sectoral cooperation, raised awareness, and encouraged active participation in environmental protection focused in academic units. ECOH project demonstrated that participatory educational interventions can effectively address local challenges and promote sustainable practices, contributing to a healthier environment for people and animals.
Evolving public perceptions and control preferences toward urban pigeons in a UNESCO World Heritage city: Evidence from serial cross-sectional surveys in Sucre, Bolivia (2012–2024)
(Veterinary world, 2026) Fabiana M. Pérez Morales; Katja Radon; María Teresa Solís-Soto
Background and Aim: Urban pigeon populations (Columba livia) are increasingly recognized as sources of environmental contamination, infrastructure damage, and zoonotic risk. However, few studies have examined how public perceptions and tolerance levels shift over time, particularly in historical cities where pigeons interact with tourist spaces and cultural heritage. This study assessed the changes in the perceptions, prejudices, and preferred control strategies of the pigeon populations in Sucre, Bolivia, across three time points (2012, 2017, and 2024). Materials and Methods: Three serial cross-sectional surveys were conducted in high-traffic public areas of Sucre using a structured, anonymous questionnaire (2012: N = 213; 2017: N = 209; 2024: N = 203). Sociodemographic information, pigeon-related prejudices, and preferred control methods were collected. Differences across years and demographic groups were assessed using chi-square tests. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were calculated to identify factors associated with a preference for pigeon eradication. Open-ended responses on control recommendations were thematically coded into lethal and non-lethal categories. Results: A total of 625 citizens participated in this study. Over the 12-year period, the respondents consistently identified littering (66%), infrastructure damage (41%), and disease transmission (42%) as major concerns, with notable peaks in 2017. Preferences for eradication increased markedly from 20% in 2012 to 49% (2024) (p < 0.01). Older adults (≥31 years), individuals perceiving pigeons as dirt sources, and respondents in 2024 were significantly more likely to support pigeon eradication. Conversely, participants who reported that pigeons were “not unpleasant” had substantially lower odds of preferring eradication. Citizens proposed various non-lethal methods, including reproductive control, habitat modification, and capture–relocation strategies. Conclusion: Public perceptions of pigeons in Sucre have become progressively less tolerant, with increasing support for eradication and persistent concerns about hygiene, public health, and cultural heritage damage. These findings underscore the need for an integrated management plan grounded in the One Health framework, which prioritizes humane, sustainable, and socially acceptable measures. Incorporating public attitudes and promoting ongoing education will be essential to balance heritage preservation, animal welfare, and urban ecosystem health. Keywords: antimicrobial resistance, epidemiology, livestock health, One Health, public health, risk factors, slaughterhouse surveillance.
FACTORES PSICOSOCIALES DEL AMBIENTE LABORAL EN PROFESORES DE ÁREAS URBANAS Y RURALES DE CHUQUISACA, BOLIVIA
(National University of Córdoba, 2017) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Anabel Schön; Manuel Parra; Katja Radon
Objetivo: Comparar las dimensiones de riesgo psicosocial en profesores de áreas urbanas y rurales de Chuquisaca, Bolivia. Método: Se realizó un estudio transversal en 60 escuelas seleccionadas al azar (27 urbanos, 33 rurales) de Chuquisaca, invitando a participar a 1.062 profesores (Respuesta 58%). Se utilizó la versión breve del cuestionario SUSESO-ISTAS21 para medir riesgos psicosociales, calculando odds ratios y su Intervalo de Confianza de 95% a través de modelos de regresión logística ajustados por edad, sexo, grado académico más alto e ingresos. Resultados: Los profesores de áreas rurales presentaron porcentajes más alto de riesgo psicosocial en comparación con los del área urbana, principalmente en las dimensiones: exigencias psicológicas (ORa 1,6; IC 95% 1,1-2,5), apoyo social y calidad del liderazgo (2,9; 1,9-4,8) y doble presencia (2,2; 1,5-3,4). Conclusiones: Se encontraron diferencias en riesgos psicosociales, de manera desfavorable en profesores de áreas rurales, lo que podría repercutir en la salud física y mental.
How studies on zoonotic risks in wildlife implement the one health approach – A systematic review
(Elsevier BV, 2024) Caroline Kühn; Kenneth Mawuta Hayibor; Ama Twumwaa Acheampong; Luciana Salini Abrahão Pires; Magda Clara Vieira da Costa-Ribeiro; María Soledad Burrone; Carlos Roberto Vásquez-Almazán; Katja Radon; María Teresa Solis Soto; Abrahão Pires Luciana Salini
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards the risk of zoonotic diseases, wildlife trade, and wildlife consumption in Latin America: A One Health mixed-method study protocol
(2024) Caroline Kuhn; Luciana Pires; María Soledad Burrone; Carlos R. Vásquez‐Almazán; Katja Radon; María Teresa Solís-Soto
<title>Abstract</title> The emergence and transmission of zoonotic diseases is a critical global challenge. Deforestation, land use changes, and urbanization have led to increased human-wildlife interactions, raising the likelihood of pathogen spillover. Wildlife trade, including handling and consumption, contributes significantly to this risk. This study aims to identify knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards zoonotic disease risks, wildlife trade, and consumption among rural and urban populations in Bolivia, Chile, Guatemala and Brazil, including indigenous communities. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study included a quantitative KAP survey with 3600 interviewees, qualitative in-depth interviews with 15 key actors and 6 focus group discussions to develop targeted educational interventions within the communities. This study's mixed-methods design provides quantitative baseline information, as well as qualitative context and depth, allowing for comprehensive insights into KAP in the communities in Latin America. To address the complex interplay of human, animal, and environmental factors, the One Health approach is applied with a focus on international and interdisciplinary collaboration. The participatory approach promotes mutual ownership and sustainability of public health interventions.
Leishmaniasis: Who Uses Personal Protection among Military Personnel in Colombia?
(Elsevier BV, 2017) Aida M. González; María Teresa Solís-Soto; Katja Radon
Improving knowledge about leishmaniasis is one measure to increase use of personal protection, thereby diminishing the risk of infection.
Mediating role of perceived social support in the relationship between unemployment and mental distress among healthcare graduates during the COVID-19 era
(Frontiers Media, 2025) Lea John; María Teresa Solís-Soto; Katja Radon
Despite the beneficial effect of perceived social support on mental health, it did not significantly mediate the relationship between unemployment and mental distress among Bolivian healthcare graduates during COVID-19. The findings highlight the need for targeted mental health support that go beyond social support for unemployed healthcare graduates during crises.
Prevalence of asthma, rhinitis and eczema symptoms in rural and urban school-aged children from Oropeza Province - Bolivia: a cross-sectional study
(BioMed Central, 2014) María Teresa Solis Soto; Armando Patiño; Dennis Nowak; Katja Radon
Prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders among school teachers from urban and rural areas in Chuquisaca, Bolivia: a cross-sectional study
(BioMed Central, 2017) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Anabel Schön; Angel Solis-Soto; Manuel Parra; Katja Radon
Relación de trabajo y autopercepción de salud en estudiantes de Enfermería en Sucre, Bolivia
(2019) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Scarley Martínez-Pérez; María Esther Santos; Mira Muehlhaeusser; Katja Radon
Introduccion: Diversos estudios han reportado el alto estres percibido por los estudiantes universitarios, tanto debido a las demandas academicas como a los aspectos financieros o familiares. En ese sentido, existe muy poca informacion sobre el efecto que el trabajo podria tener en la salud de los estudiantes de Enfermeria en Latinoamerica. Objetivo: Caracterizar la relacion entre trabajo y autopercepcion de salud en estudiantes de Enfermeria de la Universidad “San Francisco Xavier” de Chuquisaca, Bolivia. Metodo: Se realizo un estudio transversal en 126 estudiantes de tercer ano (respuesta 83,4 %). Se aplico un cuestionario autoadministrado, que exploro caracteristicas sociodemograficas, economicas, estilos de vida, apoyo social, trabajo actual y autopercepcion de salud. Se calcularon los Odds Ratios crudos y ajustados con su intervalo de confianza del 95 %, a traves de los modelos de regresion logistica. Resultados: El grupo de estudiantes que participo estuvo conformado, en su mayoria, por mujeres, menores de 24 anos, solteros, los que vivian con familia o amigos, y los que presentaban estres financiero bajo o medio. En el modelo ajustado, los estudiantes que trabajaban (Odds Ratio ajustado 5,6; 95 % Intervalo de confianza 2-17,9) y aquellos que reportaron haber sufrido de estres financiero los ultimos doce meses (3,6; 1,4-8,9) resultaron mas propensos a percibir su salud de forma negativa. Conclusiones: La condicion adicional de trabajador, asi como la presencia de estres financiero durante la formacion profesional, constituyen factores importantes que influyen en la autopercepcion de salud de estudiantes de Enfermeria. Es necesario considerar estrategias institucionales que apoyen a los estudiantes trabajadores para mejorar su autopercepcion de salud, asi como la calidad educativa y su desempeno profesional.
Small-Scale Farming, Pesticide Exposure, and Respiratory Health: A Cross-Sectional Study in Bolivia
(Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 2025) María Teresa Solís-Soto; Jonas Walber; Armando Basagoitia; Ondine S. von Ehrenstein; Katja Radon
This study analyzed the relationship between pesticide exposure with respiratory symptoms and lung function among small-scale farm workers in rural communities of Sucre, Bolivia. A cross-sectional study was conducted including 277 farmers and 214 non-farmers ≥ 16 years. Pesticide exposure and respiratory symptoms were assessed by questionnaire, and lung function was assessed by spirometry. Logistic regression models were used to estimate odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for associations between pesticide exposure and respiratory symptoms, while multiple linear regression was employed to estimate associations with lung function. The adjusted regression models indicated a positive association between pesticide exposure and chronic cough or phlegm (aOR 1.22; 95% CI 1.0 to 1.5), chest tightness (1.14; 1.0 to 1.3), and nasal allergies (1.21; 1.0 to 1.4). Also, pesticide exposure showed a slight positive association with FVC (β = 0.04; 95% CI = 0.01 to 0.07). Agricultural work (vs. non-agricultural work) showed a dual effect; on the one hand, it showed a negative association with lung function (FEV1/FVC (%): −1.57; 95% CI = −3.25 to −0.11); on the other hand, it seemed to be a protective factor for nasal allergies (aOR 0.31; 95% CI 0.1–0.8). Our study suggests an association between pesticide exposure and respiratory symptoms and farm work with lung function parameters. The results underscore the need to enhance programs that regulate and train farmers on the use of pesticides, thereby reducing health effects on workers and agricultural and neighboring communities.
Working Conditions, Workplace Violence, and Psychological Distress in Andean Miners: A Cross-sectional Study Across Three Countries
(Elsevier BV, 2015) María Salas; Steve Quezada; Armando Basagoitia; Tamara Fernández; Ronald Herrera; Manuel Parra; Daniel Moraga; Matthias Weigl; Katja Radon
Psychological distress is associated with the psychosocial work environment in Andean underground miners. Interventions in mining populations should take the psychosocial work environment into account.
Young Healthcare Workers’ Employment Status and Mental Distress over SARS-CoV-2 in Bolivia
(2023) Lea John; María Teresa Solís-Soto; Mira Mühlhäusser; Katja Radon
Abstract Background Healthcare workers (HCW) have been particularly affected by the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic as it influenced employment conditions and unemployment/insecure employment. Their deterioration is associated with mental distress. Objective The aim of the study was to assess the trajectory of mental distress among HCW graduates during the COVID-19 pandemic in relation to their employment status. Methods We compared the change in mental distress over time among recent HCW graduates who were formally employed, to those who were unemployed/insecurely employed during the pandemic. In 2018 and 2022, we prospectively surveyed HCW who were in their final year of study in 2018 in Bolivia. Information was collected on socio-demographic characteristics, employment status, and mental distress. Mental distress was assessed using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire. Generalized Estimating Equations were implemented to examine changes in mental distress over time and the role of employment status in this development. Of the 663 HCW at baseline, 116 could be followed up. Findings Over the course of the pandemic, formal employment after graduation did not change the odds of mental distress (odds ratio (OR)=0.93 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.13−6.83]). In contrast, unemployment/insecure employment statistically significantly increased the odds of mental distress (OR=2.10 [CI 1.05−4.24]) over time. Conclusions Especially in countries with limited social support for unemployed/insecurely employed citizens, interventions and policies to prevent mental distress among newly graduated HCW are important. This is particularly relevant in the face of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.