Community Assessment to Identify and Prioritize Health Promotion Interventions in Qazvin Province, Iran, in 2023 Publisher

Summary: What health needs stand out in Qazvin? A community survey prioritized heart disease, hypertension and obesity, alongside gaps in amenities and health literacy. #PublicHealth #CommunityHealth

Yahaghi R ; Khoshkchali A ; Majidnia M ; Shahbazkhania A ; Ahmadizadeh S ; Rahmani J ; Yazdi N ; Fotohi R ; Rajabi F ; Bouchali Z ; Rahmani P ; Zarenejad M ; Eftekhari P ; Zamani N Show All Authors
Source: Epidemiology and Health System Journal Published:2026

Abstract

Introduction: Community assessment identifies a community’s perceived needs by evaluating its health status and health service systems. This process involves collecting, analyzing, and disseminating information about the community’s characteristics, strengths, and needs. This study aimed to conduct a community assessment in Qazvin province in 2023. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted based on the national community assessment guideline of the Ministry of Health, using quantitative analysis of data collected from three respondent groups: the health team, community trustees, and the general population. The assessment was carried out under a program announced by the Health Education and Promotion Office of the Ministry of Health. These questionnaires were administered by teams comprising community members, health experts, and trusted individuals to identify priorities. Results: In this study, 25,797 questionnaires were completed, including 1,966 from the health team, 1,483 from the trusted team, and 22,348 from the general population. Ten major health priorities, including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and obesity, were identified in Qazvin Province. Key environmental concerns included stray dogs, lack of welfare facilities, and social challenges. Health experts identified low health literacy and childlessness as major reproductive and family health issues. Across all respondent groups, lack of neighbourhood amenities and social harms were the leading social determinants influencing provincial health priorities. Conclusion: Targeted strategies should include comprehensive cardiovascular disease prevention, blood pressure management programs, and improved access to recreational and welfare facilities in both urban and rural areas of Qazvin. © 2026 The Author(s); Published by Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences.