BMC Public Health - Latest articles via MedWorm.com MedWorm.com provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest items from the 'BMC Public Health - Latest articles' source. Fri, 10 Feb 2012 02:51:15 +0100 Age- and gender-specific population attributable risks of metabolic disorders on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in Taiwan http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5674783&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F111 Conclusions: MetS has a limited application to the PAR for all-cause mortality, especially in men; its PAR for CVD mortality is more evident. For CVD mortality, MetS components have higher PARs than MetS itself, especially hypertension in men and waist circumference in post-menopausal women. In addition, PARs for diabetes mellitus and low HDL-cholesterol may exceed 20%. We suggest differential control of risk factors in different subpopulation as a strategy to prevent CVD-related mortality. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5674783 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:50:24 +0100 5674783 Drug Education in Victorian Schools (DEVS): the study protocol for a harm reduction focused school drug education trial http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5674782&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F112 This study seeks to extend earlier Australian school drug education research by developing and measuring the effectiveness of a comprehensive, evidence-based, harm reduction focused school drug education program for junior secondary students aged 13 to 15 years. The intervention draws on the recent literature as to the common elements in effective school curriculum. It seeks to incorporate the social influence of parents through home activities. It also emphasises the use of appropriate pedagogy in the delivery of classroom lessons. Methods: A cluster randomised school drug education trial will be conducted with 1746 junior high school students in 21 Victorian secondary schools over a period of three years. Both the schools and students have actively consented to participate in the study. ... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5674782 Fri, 10 Feb 2012 03:50:23 +0100 5674782 Assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice of emergency contraception: a cross- sectional study among Ethiopian undergraduate female students http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671347&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F110 Conclusions: The study showed high EC awareness and usage in contrast to other studies in the city, which could be due to the fact that university students are relatively in a better educational level. Therefore, it is highly recommended that interventions intended to combat maternal mortality through contraceptive usage need to be aware of such information specific to the target groups. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671347 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5671347 Research, evidence and policymaking: the perspectives of policy actors on improving uptake of evidence in health policy development and implementation in Uganda http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5669820&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F109 Conclusions: This study refined an initial MRT on KT in policymaking in the health sector in Uganda that was based on a literature review. It provides a framework that can be used in empirical research of the process of KT on specific policy issues. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5669820 Thu, 09 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5669820 The relationship between breastfeeding and weight status in a national sample of Australian children and adolescents http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5666198&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F107 Conclusions: Breastfeeding for 6 or more months appears to be protective against later overweight and obesity in this population of Australian children. The beneficial short-term health outcomes of breastfeeding for the infant are well recognised and this study provides further observational evidence of a potential long-term health outcome and additional justification for the continued support and promotion of breastfeeding to six months and beyond. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5666198 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5666198 Developing community-based preventive interventions in Hong Kong: a description of the first phase of the Family Project http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664784&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F106 Conclusions: This work has public health significance because of the global importance of parent-child relationships as a risk-factor for many outcomes in adulthood, the need to develop interventions with strong evidence of effectiveness to populations outside the West, the potential application of our interventions to universal populations, and characteristics of the interventions that promote dissemination, including minimal additional costs for delivery by community agencies, and high acceptability to participants. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664784 Tue, 07 Feb 2012 03:50:35 +0100 5664784 Determinants of insecticide-treated net ownership and utilization among pregnant women in Nigeria http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5664640&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F105 Conclusions: ITN use lagged well behind ITN ownership. This seems to suggest that the current mass distribution of ITNs at antenatal facilities and community levels may not necessarily lead to use unless it is accompanied by behaviour change interventions that address the community level perceptions, misconceptions and positively position ITN as an effective prevention device to prevent malaria. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5664640 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5664640 Stability and change in screen-based sedentary behaviours and associated factors among Norwegian children in the transition between childhood and adolescence http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5663439&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F104 Conclusions: Use of TV/DVD and computer/electronic games increased with age and tracked over time in this group of 11-13 year old Norwegian children. Interventions targeting these sedentary behaviours should thus be introduced early. The identified modifiable and non-modifiable factors associated with change in TST and tracking of high TST should be taken into consideration when planning such interventions. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5663439 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5663439 Exploring factors relevant in the assessment of the return-to-work process of employees on long-term sickness absence due to a depressive disorder: a focus group study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5662888&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F103 Conclusions: This study shows that 16 factors are relevant in the assessment of RTW-ES in employees sick-listed due to DD. Further research is necessary to expand this knowledge to other health conditions, and to investigate the impact of these results on the quality of the RTW-ES assessment. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5662888 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5662888 Heavy smoking during pregnancy as a marker for other risk factors of adverse birth outcomes: a population-based study in British Columbia, Canada http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5661530&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F102 Conclusion: Our data suggests that self reports of heavy smoking early in pregnancy could be used as a marker for lifestyle risk factors that in combination with smoking influence birth outcomes. This information may be used for planning targeted intervention programs for not only smoking cessation, but potentially other support services such as nutrition and healthy pregnancy education. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5661530 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5661530 Why is high-risk drinking more prevalent among men than women? Evidence from South Korea http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5660954&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F101 Conclusion: We came to a finding that gender-specific HRD tendency is the greatest contributor to gender differences in HRD. Therefore, to effective reduce HRD, it will be necessary to understand gender differences in socioeconomic characteristics between men and women but also take notice of such differences in sociocultural settings as they experience. And it will be also required to prepare any gender-differentiated intervention strategy for men and women. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5660954 Mon, 06 Feb 2012 01:52:31 +0100 5660954 Low back pain in 17 year olds has substantial impact and represents an important public health disorder: a cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5659893&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F100 Conclusion: LBP, and particularly chronic LBP, has a significant negative impact at 17 years. It is commonly associated with care seeking, medication use, school absenteeism, and reduced HRQOL. These findings support that adolescent LBP is an important public health issue that requires attention. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5659893 Sun, 05 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5659893 Socioeconomic disparities in the uptake of breast and cervical cancer screening in Italy: a cross sectional study. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5655493&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F99 Conclusions: Inequalities in the uptake of female screening widely exist in Italy. Organized screening programs may have an important role in increasing screening attendance and tackling inequalities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5655493 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5655493 Blood pressure and associated factors in a North African adolescent population. A national cross-sectional study in Tunisia http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5654112&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F98 Conclusion: Within the limits of BP measurement on one visit only, these results suggest that Tunisian adolescents of both genders are likely not spared from early elevated BP. Though further assessment is likely needed, the strong association with overweight/obesity observed suggests that interventions aimed at changing lifestyles to reduce this main risk factor may also be appropriate for the prevention of elevated BP. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5654112 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5654112 The effects of social connections on self-rated physical and mental health among internal migrant and local adolescents in Shanghai, China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5650728&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F97 Conclusions: Self-rated data suggest that migrant adolescents enjoy a physical health advantage and a mental health disadvantage. Layered social connections, such as peer association and social cohesion, may be particularly important for migrants. A public health effort is required to improve the health status of migrant youth. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5650728 Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:50:27 +0100 5650728 Assessing survival in widowers, and controls -A nationwide, six- to nine-year follow-up http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5646811&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F96 Conclusions: Being a widower was related to an increased risk of death for at least 9 years after the death of their wife. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5646811 Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5646811 Socio-demographic factors and psychological distress in Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australian adults aged 18-64 years: analysis of national survey data http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5646382&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F95 Conclusions: Higher absolute levels of VHPD combined with smaller socio-demographic gradients in the Indigenous population suggest the importance of risk factors such as interpersonal racism, marginalization and dispossession, chronic stress and exposure to violence that are experienced by Indigenous Australians with common and/or cross-cutting effects across the socioeconomic spectrum. The lower prevalence of VHPD and lack of association with many socio-demographic variables in remote areas suggests either that the instrument may be less valid for Indigenous people living in remote areas or that living in an Indigenous majority environment (such as exists in most remote communities) may mitigate the risk of psychological distress to some degree. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest article... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5646382 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5646382 Interaction between alcohol drinking and obesity in relation to colorectal cancer risk: a case-control study in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5646288&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F94 Conclusion: The effect of alcohol of drinking on CRC seems to be modified by obesity. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5646288 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5646288 Barriers to women's participation in inter-conceptional care: a cross-sectional analysis http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645446&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F93 We describe participation rates in a special interconceptional care program that addressed all commonly known barriers to care, and identify predictors of the observed levels of participation in this preventive care service. Methods: A secondary analysis of data from women in the intervention arm of an interconceptional care clinical trial in Philadelphia (n = 442). Gelberg-Andersen Behavioral Model for Vulnerable Populations to HealthServices (herein called Andersen model) was used as a theoretical base. We used a multinomial logit model to analyze the factors influencing women's level of participation in this enhanced interconceptional care program. Results: Although common barriers were addressed, there was variable participation in the interconceptional interventions. The Andersen mode... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645446 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5645446 Actual and undiagnosed HIV prevalence in a community sample of men who have sex with men in Auckland, New Zealand http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5645090&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F92 Conclusions: This is the first estimate of actual and undiagnosed HIV infection among a community sample of gay men in New Zealand. While relatively low compared to other countries with mature epidemics, HIV prevalence was elevated in subgroups of MSM based on behaviour, and diagnosis rates varied by ethnicity. Prevention should focus on raising condom use and earlier diagnosis among those most at risk, and encouraging safe behaviour after diagnosis. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5645090 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5645090 Mortality and potential years of life lost attributable to alcohol consumption in Canada in 2005 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5644009&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F91 The mortality burden attributable to alcohol consumption for Canada is substantial, with alcohol-attributable deaths from motor vehicle accidents being among the largest contributors, suggesting monitoring the burden is needed to formulate policies for reducing alcohol's effects. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5644009 Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5644009 Lifestyle physical activity among urban Palestinians and Israelis: a cross-sectional comparison in the Palestinian-Israeli Jerusalem risk factor study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5642881&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F90 This study aimed to determine the prevalence of insufficient PA and its socio-demographic correlates among urban Palestinians in comparison with Israelis. Methods: An age-sex stratified random sample of Palestinians and Israelis aged 25-74 years living in east and west Jerusalem was drawn from the Israel National Population Registry: 970 Palestinians and 712 Israelis participated. PA in a typical week was assessed by the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) questionnaire. Energy expenditure (EE), calculated in metabolic equivalents (METs), was compared between groups for moderate to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), using the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and for domain-specific prevalence rates of meeting public health guidelines and all-domain insufficient PA. Correlates of ... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5642881 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5642881 VIP in construction: systematic development and evaluation of a multifaceted health programme aiming to improve physical activity levels and dietary patterns among construction workers http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5642146&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F89 DiscussionThe development of the VIP in construction intervention led to a health programme tailored to the needs of construction workers. This programme, if proven effective, can be directly implemented.Trial registration numberNetherlands Trial Register (NTR): NTR2095 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5642146 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5642146 Why choice of metric matters in public health analyses: a case study of the attribution of credit for the decline in coronary heart disease mortality in the US and other populations http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5636523&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F88 Conclusions: Time-based metrics (such as life years) are generally preferable because they direct attention to the changes in the natural history of disease that are produced by changes in key health determinants. The life-years attached to each death averted will also weight deaths in a way that better reflects social preferences. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5636523 Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5636523 Hearing effects from intermittent and continuous noise exposure in a study of Korean factory workers and firefighters http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5635335&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F87 Conclusions: Korean work environments with continuous noise exposure in the measured range should consider implementation of a hearing conservation program. Further evaluation of hearing loss in workers exposed to irregular or intermittent high noise levels, such as firefighters, is also warranted. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5635335 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5635335 Study design of FRIENDS for Life: process and effect evaluation of an indicated school-based prevention programme for childhood anxiety and depression http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5633594&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F86 This study is a controlled trial with one pre-intervention and three post-intervention measurements (directly after, and 6 and 12 months after the end of the programme). The study sample consists of children aged 10-12 years (grades 6, 7 and 8 of Dutch primary schools), who show symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder. Data are collected through self-report, teacher report and peer nomination. A process evaluation is conducted to investigate programme integrity (whether the programme has been executed according to protocol) and to evaluate children's and parents' opinions about 'FRIENDS for Life' using online focus groups and interviews.DiscussionThe present study will provide insight into the effectiveness of 'FRIENDS for Life' as an indicated school-based prevention programme for chil... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5633594 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5633594 Political and social determinants of life expectancy in less developed countries: a longitudinal study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630837&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F85 Conclusions: Though the effect of democratic politics on increasing life expectancy was relatively small in the short term when compared to the effects of the other socioeconomic factors, the long-term impact of democracy should not be underestimated. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630837 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:50:23 +0100 5630837 Causes of neonatal and maternal deaths in Dhaka slums: Implications for service delivery http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5630158&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F84 Conclusion: Delivery at a health facility with child assessment within a day of delivery and appropriate treatment could reduce neonatal deaths. Maternal mortality is unlikely to reduce without delivering at facilities with basic Emergency Obstetric Care (EOC) and arrangements for timely referral to EOC. There is a need for a comprehensive package of services that includes control of infectious diseases during pregnancy, EOC and adequate after delivery care. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5630158 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5630158 A local outbreak of dengue caused by an imported case in Dongguan China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5627583&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F83 Conclusions: Several characterized points of urbanization contributed to this outbreak of dengue in Dongguan: the residents are highly concentrated; the residents' life habits helped to form the habitats of Ae. albopictus and contributed to the high Breteau Index; the self-constructed houses lacks of mosquito prevention facilities. This report has reaffirmed the importance of a surveillance system for infectious diseases control and aroused the awareness of an imported case causing the epidemic of an infectious disease in urbanized region. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5627583 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5627583 Public health management of antiviral drugs during the 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic: A survey of local health departments in California http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5626632&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F82 Conclusions: The 2009 H1N1 influenza pandemic presented an unusual opportunity to learn about the role of local public health in the management of antiviral response activities during a real public health emergency. Results of this study offer an important descriptive account of LHD management of publicly purchased antivirals, and provide practitioners, policy makers, and academics with a practice-based assessment of these events. The issues raised and the challenges faced by LHDs should be leveraged to inform public health planning for future pandemics and other emergency events that require medical countermeasure dispensing activities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5626632 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5626632 Body mass index and height over three generations: evidence from the Lifeways cross-generational cohort study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5626502&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F81 Conclusions: This is the first family cohort study to report an enduring association between mother and offspring BMI over three generations. The evidence of BMI transmission over three generations through the maternal line in an observational study corroborates the findings of animal studies. A more detailed analysis of geno and phenotypic data over three generations is warranted to understand the nature of this maternal-offspring relationship. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5626502 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5626502 Health literacy and public health: A systematic review and integration of definitions and models http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5626343&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F80 Conclusions: Based upon this review, a model is proposed integrating medical and public health views of health literacy. The model can serve as a basis for developing health literacy enhancing interventions and provide a conceptual basis for the development and validation of measurement tools, capturing the different dimensions of health literacy within the healthcare, disease prevention and health promotion settings. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5626343 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5626343 The effect of modifiable risk factors on geographic mortality differentials: a modelling study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5626047&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F79 Conclusions: These results suggest that health intervention programs aimed at smoking, blood pressure and total cholesterol could have a substantial impact on mortality inequities for Outer Regional/Remote areas. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5626047 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5626047 Protocol for a randomized controlled trial of a specialized health coaching intervention to prevent excessive gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention in women: the HIPP Study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5625249&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F78 We describe the rationale and methods of the Health in Pregnancy and Post-birth (HIPP) Study, a study which aims primarily to determine the effectiveness of a specialized health coaching (HC) intervention during pregnancy, compared to education alone, in preventing excessive gestational weight gain and postpartum weight retention 12 months post birth. A secondary aim of this study is to evaluate the mechanisms by which our HC intervention impacts on weight management both during pregnancy and post birth. Methods: The randomized controlled trial will be conducted with 220 women who have a BMI >18.5 (American IOM cut-off for normal weight), are 18 years of age or older, English speaking, no history of disordered eating or diabetes and are less than 18 weeks gestation at recruitment. Women wi... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5625249 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 03:50:24 +0100 5625249 Identifying factors relevant in the assessment of return-to-work efforts in employees on long-term sickness absence due to chronic low back pain: a focus group study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5624732&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F77 Conclusions: This focus group study shows that 19 factors may be relevant to RTW-ES in sick-listed employees with CLBP. Providing these results to professionals assessing RTW-ES might contribute to a more transparent and systematic approach. Considering the importance of the quality of the RTW process, optimizing the RTW-ES assessment is essential. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5624732 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5624732 Study protocol for Women of Color and Asthma Control: A randomized controlled trial of an asthma-management intervention for African American women http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623949&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F76 DiscussionWe seek to decrease asthma-related health care utilization and improve asthma-related quality of life in African American women with asthma, by offering them a culturally- and gender-relevant program to enhance asthma management. The results of this study will provide important information about the feasibility and value of this program in helping to address persistent racial and gender disparities in asthma outcomes.Trial RegistrationClinicaltrials.gov NCT01117805 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623949 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623949 Design of a multicentered randomized controlled trial on the clinical and cost effectiveness of schema therapy for personality disorders http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623850&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F75 This study is registered at the Dutch Trial Register NTR566. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623850 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623850 Aedes albopictus and the reemergence of Dengue http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623333&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F72 Dengue is a vector-borne disease that is estimated to affect millions of individuals each year in tropical and subtropical areas, and it is reemerging in areas that have been disease-free for relatively long periods of time. In this issue of the journal, Peng et al. report on a Dengue outbreak in a city in southern China that had been disease-free for more than two decades. The infection, which was due to serotype 1, was introduced by a traveler from South-east Asia and transmitted by Aedes albopictus, the Asian tiger mosquito. Compared to Aedes aegypti, which is the most important vector of Dengue, Ae albopictus is a less competent vector of arboviruses, and the epidemics it causes are milder. However, Ae albopictus is becoming an increasingly important vector because of its rapidly chang... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623333 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623333 Preventive behavior for toxoplasmosis in pregnant adolescents in the state of Ceara, Brazil http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623332&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F73 Conclusions: It is noteworthy the importance of a serologic follow-up for pregnant adolescents with clearer and precise information about risk factors and the importance of adopting preventive behaviors. Thus, it's necessary to establish educational measures for food-handling food and raising kittens during prenatal care. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623332 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623332 A multilevel examination of gender differences in the association between features of the school environment and physical activity among a sample of grades 9 to 12 students in Ontario, Canada http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623331&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F74 Conclusions: Although most variation in male and female students' time spent in PA lies between students within schools, there is sufficient between-school variation to be of interest to practitioners and policy-makers. More research investigating gender differentials in environment factors associated with youth PA are warranted. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623331 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623331 The predictive validity of three self-report screening instruments for identifying frail older people in the community http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619869&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F69 Conclusion: All three instruments do have potential to identify older persons at risk, but their predictive power is not sufficient yet. Further research on these and other instruments is needed to improve targeting frail elderly. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619869 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5619869 Combined television viewing and computer use and mortality from all-causes and diseases of the circulatory system among adults in the United States http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619868&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F70 Conclusions: In the present study, screen time did not significantly predict mortality from all-causes and diseases of the circulatory system. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619868 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5619868 Evaluation of interventions on road traffic injuries in Peru: a qualitative approach http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619867&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F71 Conclusions: Our approach revealed substantial caveats in current RTI interventions in Peru, and fundamental negative effects on several components of the sectors and systems involved. It also highlighted programmatic issues that should be applied to guarantee an effective implementation and evaluation of these policies. The findings from this study were discussed with key stakeholders for consideration in further designing and planning RTI control interventions in Peru. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619867 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5619867 A European study investigating patterns of transition from home care towards institutional dementia care: the protocol of a RightTimePlaceCare study. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619582&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F68 DiscussionThe current study, which is part of a large European project 'RightTimePlaceCare', generates primary data on outcomes and costs of long-term nursing care for people with dementia and their informal caregivers, specifically focusing on the transition from home towards institutional care. Together with data collected in three other work packages, knowledge gathered in this study will be used to inform and empower patients, professionals, policy and related decision makers to manage and improve health and social dementia care services. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619582 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5619582 "Now we are in a different time; various bad diseases have come." Understanding men's acceptability of male circumcision for HIV prevention in a moderate prevalence setting. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5619280&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F67 Conclusion: This is one of the first community-based MC acceptability studies conducted in a moderate prevalence setting outside of Africa. Research findings from this study suggest that a future MC program for HIV prevention would be widely accepted by men in PNG. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5619280 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5619280 The buffering effect of relationship satisfaction on emotional distress in couples http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5618526&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F66 Conclusions: Partner relationship dissatisfaction is strongly associated with emotional distress in men and women. Good partner relationship, both as perceived by the individual him(her)self and by the spouse, quite strongly moderates adverse effects of various types of emotional strain. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5618526 Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5618526 Do positive or negative experiences of social support relate to current and future health? Results from the Doetinchem Cohort Study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5614155&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F65 Conclusions: This study showed that social support might have a beneficial effect on lifestyle and health, with negative experiences of social support affecting lifestyle and health differently from positive experiences of social support. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5614155 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5614155 Epidemiology of Shiga toxin producing Escherichia coli in Australia, 2000-2010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5611315&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F63 Conclusions: STEC infections in Australia have remained fairly steady over the past eleven years. Overall, the incidence and burden of disease due to STEC and HUS in Australia appears comparable or lower than similar developed countries. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5611315 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 01:50:22 +0100 5611315 The prevalence of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors in adults in southern China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5611314&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F64 Conclusions: Our results indicate that a large proportion of southern Chinese adults have the metabolic syndrome and associated risk factors. The metabolic syndrome has become an important public health problem in China. These findings emphasize the urgent need to develop population level strategies for the prevention, detection, and treatment of cardiovascular risk in China. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5611314 Sat, 21 Jan 2012 01:50:22 +0100 5611314 Comparison of alternative versions of the job demand-control scales in 17 European cohort studies: the IPD-Work consortium http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5611316&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F62 Conclusions: Partial job demand and job control scales with at least half of the items of the complete scales, and job strain indices based on one complete and one partial scale, seemed to assess the same underlying concepts as the complete survey instruments. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5611316 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5611316 Influence of the quality implementation of a physical education curriculum on the physical development and physical fitness of children http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5609997&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F61 Conclusions: Specialist PE teachers were more successful than generalist teachers in achieving greater improvement of children's physical fitness, but no differences were observed in physical development of quasi-test and quasi-control group. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5609997 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5609997 Association of smoking, physical activity, and dietary habits with socioeconomic variables: a cross-sectional study in adults on both sides of the Hungarian-Romanian border http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5608848&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F60 Conclusions: The present study shows that socioeconomic status is associated with health-related behaviours in a small area of Hungary and Romania. The results highlight the need for developing interventional strategies, focusing more on people in lower socioeconomic status, in order to reduce the existing inequalities in health and health-related behaviours. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5608848 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5608848 Psychological characteristics in high-risk MSM in China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5608423&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F58 Conclusions: MSM with and without high-risk homosexual behaviors have different social and psychological characteristics, which should be taken into account when implementing behavioral and therapeutic interventions aimed at preventing HIV/AIDS transmission among MSM as well as from MSM to the general population in China. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5608423 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5608423 Predictors for patient knowledge and reported behaviour regarding driving under the influence of medicines: a multi-country survey http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5608422&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F59 Conclusions: Changes in driving behaviour can be predicted by negative attitudes towards driving under the influence of medicines but not by patients' knowledge regarding driving under the influence of medicines. Future research should not only focus on information campaigns for patients but also for healthcare providers as this might contribute to improve communications with patients regarding the risks of driving under the influence of medicines. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5608422 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5608422 Participation in and attitude towards the national immunization program in the Netherlands: data from population-based questionnaires http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607813&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F57 Conclusion: Most participants had a positive attitude towards vaccination, although some had doubts. Groups with a lower income or educational level or of non-Western descent participated less in the NIP than those with a high income or educational level or indigenous Dutch and have been less well identified previously. Particular attention ought to be given to these groups as they contribute in large measure to the rate of nonparticipation in the NIP, i.e., to a greater extent than well-known vaccine refusers such as specific religious groups and anthroposophics. Our finding that the proportion of the population inclined to accept vaccinations is smaller than it was 10 years ago highlights the need to increase knowledge about attitudes and beliefs regarding the NIP. (Source: BMC Public He... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607813 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607813 Patient- and provider-level risk factors associated with default from tuberculosis treatment, South Africa, 2002: a case-control study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607565&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F56 Conclusions: Risk factors for default differ between new and re-treatment TB patients in South Africa. Addressing default in both populations with targeted interventions is critical to overall program success. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607565 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607565 The GLAMA (Girls! Lead! Achieve! Mentor! Activate!) physical activity and peer leadership intervention pilot project: A process evaluation using the RE-AIM framework http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607276&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F55 Conclusions: Factors that have the greatest impact on intervention success are those that come from within the school setting including: the structure of the curriculum, pressure to meet curriculum and assessment content, lack of support for new initiatives, multiple programs already running within the school, time allowances for teachers, appropriate training for teachers, and support for students to participate. These barriers need to be considered when developing all secondary school interventions. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607276 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607276 Life satisfaction and mortality in elderly people: The Kangwha cohort study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5607186&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F54 Conclusion: We found that elderly people with a lower LSI score, regardless of gender, were at risk of increased mortality from all causes, and low LSI score was also associated with cardiovascular mortality. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5607186 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5607186 Trend in eating habits among Lithuanian school-aged children in context of social inequality: three cross-sectional surveys 2002, 2006 and 2010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5606312&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F52 Background: Intermittent monitoring of food intake at the population level is essential for the planning and evaluation of national dietary intervention programs. Social-economic changes in Lithuania have likely affected dietary habits, but only a limited number of temporal studies on food intake trends among young population groups have been published. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in eating habits among Lithuanian school-aged children from 2002 to 2010, and to explore the association of these changes with the respondents' reported socio-economic status (SES). Methods: We used Lithuanian data from the cross-national Health Behaviour in School-aged Children (HBSC) study collected in 2002, 2006 and 2010. Analyses were conducted on comparable questionnaire-based data from ... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5606312 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5606312 Migrant health in French Guiana: Are undocumented immigrants more vulnerable? http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5606311&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F53 Conclusion: Data on immigrant health are scarce in France, and more generally, immigrant health problems have been largely ignored in public health policies. Immigrant health status is of crucial interest to health policy planners, and it is especially relevant in French Guiana, considering the size of the foreign-born population in that region. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5606311 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5606311 Effect of running therapy on depression (EFFORT-D). Design of a randomised controlled trial in adult patients [ ISRCTN 1894] http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5606000&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F50 The objective of the present article is to describe the design of a RCT examining the effect of exercise on depressive patients. Methods: The EFFect Of Running Therapy on Depression in adults (EFFORT-D) is a RCT, studying the effectiveness of exercise therapy (running therapy (RT) or Nordic walking (NW)) on depression in adults, in addition to usual care. The study population consists of patients with depressive disorder, Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HRSD) [greater than or equal to] 14, recruited from specialised mental health care. The experimental group receives the exercise intervention besides treatment as usual, the control group receives treatment as usual. The intervention program is a group-based, 1 h session, two times a week for 6 months and of increasing intensity. The ... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5606000 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5606000 Efficacy of a text messaging (SMS) based smoking cessation intervention for adolescents and young adults: Study protocol of a cluster randomised controlled trial http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5605999&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F51 DiscussionIt is expected that the program offers an effective and inexpensive way to promote smoking cessation among adolescents and young adults including those with lower educational level and independent of their motivation to quit.Trial registrationCurrent Controlled Trials ISRCTN19739792. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5605999 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5605999 Comprehensive assessment of metabolic syndrome among Rural Bangladeshi Women http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604262&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F49 Conclusions: The present study reveals a high prevalence of MS and its associated risk factors in rural Bangladeshi women. These findings are important in that they provide insights that will be helpful in formulating effective public health policy, notably the development of future health prevention strategies in Bangladesh. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604262 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 01:50:21 +0100 5604262 Co-morbid depression is associated with poor work outcomes in persons with cardiovascular disease (CVD): A large, nationally representative survey in the Australian population http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604135&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F47 Conclusions: Co-morbid MDD and CVD is associated with significantly poorer work outcomes. Specifically, the effects of these conditions on work functioning are synergistic. The development of specialised treatment programs for those with co-morbid MDD and CVD is required. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604135 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5604135 Exploring the relationships between housing, neighbourhoods and mental wellbeing for residents of deprived areas. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5604134&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F48 Conclusion: This study has shown that for people living in deprived areas, the quality and aesthetics of housing and neighbourhoods are associated with mental wellbeing, but so too are feelings of respect, status and progress that may be derived from how places are created, serviced and talked about by those who live there. The implication for regeneration activities undertaken to improve housing and neighbourhoods is that it is not just the delivery of improved housing that is important for mental wellbeing, but also the quality and manner of delivery. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5604134 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5604134 Ethnic discrimination prevalence and associations with health outcomes: data from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of secondary school students in New Zealand http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5603955&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F45 Conclusions: Ethnic discrimination is more commonly reported by Indigenous and minority group students. Both experiencing and being 'unsure' about experiencing ethnic discrimination are associated with a range of adverse health/wellbeing outcomes. Our findings highlight the progress yet to be made to ensure that rights to be free from ethnic discrimination are met for young people living in New Zealand. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5603955 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5603955 Health inequalities in the Netherlands: a cross-sectional study of the role of Type D (distressed) personality http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5603954&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F46 Conclusion: The cross-sectional design hinders the making of definite etiological inferences. Nevertheless, our findings suggest that Type D personality does not explain the socioeconomic health inequalities, but is a risk factor in addition to low SES. Prevention of adverse health outcomes in low SES populations may have more effect when it takes into account that persons with a low SES in combination with a Type D personality are at highest risk. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5603954 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5603954 Diabetes, HIV and other health determinants associated with absenteeism among formal sector workers in Namibia http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5602334&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F44 Conclusion: Both NCD risk factors and infectious diseases are associated with increased rates of short-term absenteeism of formal sector employees in Namibia. Programs to manage these conditions could help employers avoid costs associated with absenteeism. These programs could include basic health care insurance including regular wellness screenings. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5602334 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5602334 Design of a trial-based economic evaluation on the cost-effectiveness of employability interventions among work disabled employees or employees at risk of work disability: The CASE-study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5600527&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F43 Discussion: The CASE-study is the first to conduct economic evaluations of multiple different employability interventions based on a similar methodological framework. The cost-effectiveness results for every employability intervention will be published in 2014, but the methods, strengths and weaknesses of the study protocol are discussed in this paper. To contribute to treatment options in occupational health practice and enable the development of guidelines on how to conduct economic evaluation better suited to this field; this paper provides an important first step. Trial Registration: Four trials involved in the CASE-study are registered with the Netherlands Trial Registry: Care for Work (NTR2886), Health and Motion (NTR3111), Guidance to Excel in Return to Work (NTR3151), Care for Comp... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5600527 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5600527 Type D personality is associated with impaired psychological status and unhealthy lifestyle in Icelandic cardiac patients: A cross-sectional study. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5599297&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F42 The objectives were to examine 1) the association between Type D personality and impaired psychological status, and to explore whether this association is independent of disease severity; and 2) the association between Type D personality and an unhealthy lifestyle. Methods: A sample of 268 Icelandic coronary angiography patients (74% males (N = 199); mean age 62.9 years (SD 10.5), range 28-85 years) completed the Type D Scale (DS14), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) at hospitalization. Health-related behaviors were assessed four months following angiography. Clinical data were collected from medical files. Results: Type D personality was associated with an increased risk of anxiety (OR 2.97, 95% CI:1.55-5.69), depression (OR 4.01, 95% CI:1.42-1... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5599297 Wed, 18 Jan 2012 01:50:42 +0100 5599297 A review of population-based prevalence studies of physical activity in adults in the Asia-Pacific region http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5598932&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F41 Conclusions: Many countries in the Asia-Pacific region collect population-level PA data. This review highlights differences in estimates within and between countries. Some differences may be real, others due to variation in the PA questions asked and survey methods used. Use of standardized protocols and measures, and combined reporting of data are essential goals of improved international PA surveillance. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5598932 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5598932 Household secondhand smoke exposure of elementary schoolchildren in Southern Taiwan and factors associated with their confidence in avoiding exposure: a cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5597467&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F40 Conclusions: The intervention program should enhance school children do actively avoid exposure to SHS in home settings, and more importantly, provide tobacco hazard knowledge to male students to avoid exposure to household SHS for themselves. The results also provide further evidence that Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act should perhaps be extended to the family environment in order to protect children from the hazards of household SHS exposure. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5597467 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5597467 Mortality among adults: gender and socioeconomic differences in a Brazilian city http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5596783&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F39 Conclusions: Substandard living conditions are related to unhealthy behaviors, as well as difficulties in accessing health care. Therefore, the Brazilian Health System (SUS) must ensure greater access to primary and hospital care, and develop programs that promote healthier lifestyles among vulnerable groups to reduce social inequalities in mortality. Moreover, because deaths from external causes are concentrated in poor areas, cooperative and coordinated intersectoral actions should be taken to combat the deadly violence cycle. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5596783 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5596783 Mortality and causes of death among violent offenders and victims - a Swedish population based longitudinal study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5596627&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F38 Conclusions: Violent offending and being victimized are associated with excess mortality and a risk of dying from an alcohol or drug-related cause or suicide. Consequently, prevention of violent behavior might have an effect on overall mortality and suicide rates. Prevention of alcohol and drug use is also warranted. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5596627 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5596627 Undergraduate student drinking and related harms at an Australian university: web-based survey of a large random sample http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5595557&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F37 Conclusions: Half of men and over a third of women were drinking at hazardous levels and a relatively large proportion of students were negatively affected by their own and other students' drinking. There is a need for intervention to reduce hazardous drinking early in university participation.Trial registrationACTRN12608000104358 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5595557 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5595557 Design of a web-based individual coping and alcohol-intervention program (web-ICAIP) for children of parents with alcohol problems: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5595477&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F35 This study will therefore make an important contribution to this novel field of research.Trial registrationISRCTN41545712 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5595477 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5595477 Changing insurance company claims handling processes improves some outcomes for people injured in road traffic crashes http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5595476&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F36 Conclusion: We found a few positive effects on health from a new claims handling method by a large insurance company. It may be most effective to target people who report low general health and low expectations for their health recovery when they file their claim. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5595476 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5595476 Prevalence of cardiovascular disease and risk factors in a rural district of Beijing, China: a population-based survey of 58,308 residents http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5594799&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F34 Conclusions: High prevalence of CVD and probably changed epidemic pattern in rural communities of Beijing, together with the prevalent cardiovascular risk factors and population aging, might cause public health challenges in rural Chinese population. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5594799 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5594799 Socioeconomic factors associated with drug consumption in prison population in Mexico http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5581845&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F33 Conclusions: Work and study during incarceration, in addition to being instruments for rehabilitation, seem to exert an important positive association against drug consumption. However, this correlation seems to be minimized in the face of negative conditions of the penal institution; thus, public policies are necessary to improve the prisoner's environment. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5581845 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5581845 Binge eating, purging and non-purging compensatory behaviours decrease from adolescence to adulthood: A population-based, longitudinal study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5581229&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F32 Conclusions: Individuals affected by purging need to be targeted as a high-risk group. The distinction in severity among the subclinical ED may indicate the need for the reformulation of the eating disorder not otherwise specified category in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5581229 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5581229 Awareness and acceptability of human papillomavirus vaccine: An application of the instrumental variables bivariate probit model http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5580171&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F31 Conclusions: Among populations who are not currently aware of the HPV vaccine, the potential impact of raising awareness on acceptability of HPV vaccination is substantial. This finding provides additional support to strengthening public health programs that increase awareness and policy efforts that address barriers to HPV vaccination. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5580171 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 03:50:22 +0100 5580171 Are marginalized women being left behind? A population-based study of institutional deliveries in Karnataka, India http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5579995&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F30 Conclusion: The results of the study suggest that while the Indian Government has made significant progress in increasing antenatal care and institutional deliveries among rural populations, further success in lowering maternal mortality will likely hinge on the success of NRHM programs focused on serving marginalized groups. Health interventions which target SC/ST may also have to address both perceived and actual stigma and discrimination, in addition to providing needed services. Strategies for overcoming these barriers may include sensitization of healthcare workers, targeted health education and outreach, and culturally appropriate community-level interventions. Addressing the needs of these communities will be critical to achieving Millennium Development Goal Five by 2015. (Source: B... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5579995 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5579995 Assessing trends and predictors of tuberculosis in Taiwan http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5578992&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F29 Conclusions: The proposed Poisson regression model is capable of forecasting patterns of TB incidence at regional and national scales. This study suggested that assessment of TB trends in eastern Taiwan presents an important opportunity for understanding the time-series dynamics and control of TB infections, given that this is the typical host demography in regions where these infections remain major public health problems. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5578992 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5578992 Nutritional status of Palestinian preschoolers in the Gaza Strip: a cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5578666&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F27 Conclusions: Children with low-birth weight and older children had worse nutritional resiliency outcomes. Further, poorer outcomes for children were associated with lower maternal mental health status, as well as increased family residential instability. Our results add to the large literature on the pervasive effects of violence and instability on children and underscore the need for resources for early intervention and for the urgent resolution of the Palestinian and other armed conflicts. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5578666 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5578666 Promoting fit bodies, healthy eating and physical activity among Indigenous Australian men: A study protocol http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5578665&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F28 This study will explore both risk and protective factors that affect the health of Indigenous Australian men. This knowledge will be disseminated to the wider Indigenous community and can be used to inform future health promotion strategies. The expected outcome of this study is therefore an increased understanding of health and health change in Indigenous Australian men, the development of strategies that promote healthy eating and positive patterns of physical activity and, in the longer term, more effective and culturally-appropriate interventions to improve health. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5578665 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5578665 Women's views on consent, counseling and confidentiality in PMTCT: a mixed-methods study in four African countries http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5578573&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F26 Background: Ambitious UN goals to reduce the mother-to-child transmission of HIV have not been met in much of Sub-Saharan Africa. This paper focuses on the quality of information provision and counseling and disclosure patterns in Burkina Faso, Kenya, Malawi and Uganda to identify how services can be improved to enable better PMTCT outcomes. Methods: Our mixed-methods study draws on data obtained through: (1) the MATCH (Multi-country African Testing and Counseling for HIV) study's main survey, conducted in 2008-09 among clients (N = 408) and providers at health facilities offering HIV Testing and Counseling (HTC) services; 2) semi-structured interviews with a sub-set of 63 HIV-positive women on their experiences of stigma, disclosure, post-test counseling and access to follow-up psycho-soc... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5578573 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5578573 An empirical approach to selecting community-based alcohol interventions: combining research evidence, rural community views and professional opinion http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577992&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F25 Conclusions: In the absence of sufficient research evidence for effective community-based alcohol interventions, rural communities and professionals both strongly support school programs, promotion of safer drinking and community programs. Rural communities also supported police enforcement of alcohol laws and professionals supported GP training. The impact of a combination of these strategies needs to be rigorously evaluated. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577992 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577992 Heavy burden of non-communicable diseases at early age and gender disparities in an adult population of Burkina Faso: World Health Survey http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577871&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F24 Conclusions: Our work suggests that social inequality extends into the distribution of non-communicable diseases among social groups and supports the thesis of a differential vulnerability in Burkinabe women. It raises the possibility of an abnormally high rate of premature morbidity that could manifest as a form of premature aging in the adult population. Increased prevention, screening and treatment are needed in Burkina Faso to address high prevalence and gender inequalities in non-communicable diseases. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577871 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577871 Prevalence of diabetes among Han, Manchu and Korean ethnicities in the Mudanjiang area of China: A cross-sectional survey http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577730&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F23 Conclusions: Our study indicates that diabetes is a major public health problem in the Mudanjiang area of China. Ethnicity plays a role in the different prevalences of diabetes and prediabetes among the three ethnic groups. Diabetes is less prevalent among Manchu Chinese compared with Han and Korean Chinese. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577730 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577730 Does the distribution of health care benefits in Kenya meet the principles of universal coverage? http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577529&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F20 Conclusions: The principles of universal coverage require that all should benefit from health care according to need. The Kenyan health sector is clearly inequitable and benefits are not distributed on the basis of need. Deliberate efforts should be directed to restructuring the Kenyan health system to address access barriers and ensure that all Kenyans benefit from health care when they need it. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577529 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577529 A randomized controlled trial testing the effectiveness of a universal school-based depression prevention program 'Op Volle Kracht' in the Netherlands http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577528&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F21 In this study the effectiveness of OVK will be tested and possible mediators of program effects will be focus of study as well.MethodThe effectiveness of OVK will be tested in a randomized controlled trial with two conditions, intervention (OVK) and control condition (care as usual). Schools are randomly assigned to research conditions. OVK will be incorporated in the school curriculum, maximizing program attendance. OVK consists of 16 lessons of 50 min, given by trained psychologists to groups of 11-15 students. OVK contains Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, social skills training, problem solving and decision making. Outcomes are measured at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months follow up, to monitor long term program effects. Primary outcome is level of depressive symptoms, secondary outcomes are: anxiet... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577528 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577528 Demographic, knowledge, attitudinal, and accessibility factors associated with uptake of cervical cancer screening among women in a rural district of Tanzania: Three public policy implications http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577527&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F22 Conclusions: Based on the study findings, three recommendations are made. First, information about cervical cancer must be presented to women. Second, public education of the disease must include specific information on how to prevent it as well as screening services available. Third, it is important to provide cervical cancer screening services within 5 km of where women reside. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577527 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577527 SRH and HrQoL: does social position impact differently on their link with health status? http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5577257&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F19 Conclusions: Both SRH and HRQoL were lower among those reporting functional limitations or chronic low back pain. However, the change varied according SEP and the measure. In relative term, the negative impact of a given health condition seems to be greater on SRH and lower on HRQoL for people with higher SEP in comparison with people with low SEP. Using SRH could thus decrease socioeconomic differences. In contrast using HRQoL could increase these differences, suggesting being cautious when using these indicators for analyzing health disparities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5577257 Tue, 10 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5577257 Unevenly distributed: A systematic review of the health literature about socioeconomic inequalities in adult obesity in the United Kingdom http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5575868&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F18 Conclusion: Socioeconomic indicators of low socioeconomic position (SEP), including occupational social class of the head-of-household at birth and during childhood, earlier adulthood occupational social class, contemporaneous occupational social class, educational attainment, and area-level deprivation were generally inversely associated with adult obesity risk in the UK. Measures of SEP were more predictive of obesity among women than among men. We outline important methodological limitations to the literature and recommend avenues for future research. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5575868 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5575868 A national cohort study of parental socioeconomic status and non-fatal suicidal behaviour--the mediating role of school performance http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5575456&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F17 Conclusions: School performance is an important mediator through which parental socioeconomic status translates into a risk for non-fatal suicidal behaviour. Prevention efforts aimed to reduce socioeconomic inequalities in non-fatal suicidal behaviour among young people will need to consider socioeconomic inequalities in school performance. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5575456 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5575456 The impact of diabetes prevention on labour force participation and income of older Australians: an economic study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5568688&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F16 Conclusions: In addition to improved health and wellbeing, considerable benefits to individuals, in terms of both additional working years and increased personal income, could be made by introducingeither a lifestyle or metformin intervention to prevent diabetes. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5568688 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5568688 Community-based educational intervention to limit the dissemination of community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Northern Saskatchewan, Canada http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5567180&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F15 Conclusions: These educational materials are all freely available (www.narp.ca) and will hopefully aid in increasing awareness of the importance of proper antimicrobial usage and hygiene in diminishing the spread of S. aureus and other infectious diseases in other communities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5567180 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5567180 Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among children from six cities of China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5563517&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F13 Conclusions: The early onset of MetS among children and relatively high proportions of children with at least one or two metabolic abnormalities in cities of China can increase the risk of developing MetS. It implies the necessity to take effective actions to control and prevent the rapid development of obesity among children in developing countries, especial those undergoing transition to a Western lifestyle. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5563517 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5563517 A cross-sectional survey of prevalence and correlates of suicidal ideation and suicide attempts among prisoners in New South Wales, Australia http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5563516&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F14 Conclusions: Suicidal ideation and attempts are highly prevalent among prisoners compared to the general community. Assessment of suicide risk is a critical task for mental health clinicians in prisons. Attention should be given to ensuring assessments are gender- and culturally sensitive. Indicators of mental illness may not be accurate predictors of suicide attempt. Indicators of childhood trauma appear to be particularly relevant to risk of suicide attempt among prisoners and should be given attention as part of risk assessments. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5563516 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5563516 Progress towards implementation of ACT malaria case-management in public health facilities in the Republic of Sudan: a cluster- sample survey http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5563087&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F11 Background: Effective malaria case-management based on artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) and parasitological diagnosis is a major pillar within the 2007-2012 National Malaria Strategic Plan in the Sudan. Three years after the launch of the strategy a health facility survey was undertaken to evaluate case-management practices and readiness of the health facilities and health workers to implement a new malaria case-management strategy. Methods: A cross-sectional, cluster sample survey was undertaken at public health facilities in 15 states of Sudan. Data were collected using quality-of-care assessment methods. The main outcomes were the proportions of facilities with ACTs and malaria diagnostics; proportions of health workers exposed to malaria related health systems support activi... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5563087 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5563087 Applying the effort-reward imbalance model to household and family work: a population-based study of German mothers http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5563086&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F12 Conclusions: The newly developed questionnaire demonstrates satisfied validity and promising results for extending the ERI model to household and family work. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5563086 Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5563086 Targeting condom distribution at high risk places increases condom utilization - evidence from an intervention study in Livingstone, Zambia http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5561225&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F10 Conclusions: It is likely that the substantial increase in reported condom use in the intervention venues was partially due to the condom distribution and peer education intervention targeting these places. However, substantial changes were observed also in the comparison community over the five year period, and this indicates that major changes had occurred in overall risk taking among people socializing in venues where people meet new sexual partners in Livingstone.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT01423357 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5561225 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5561225 A prospective study of complications from comprehensive abortion care services in Nepal http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5560266&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F9 Conclusions: The abortion complication rate in Nepali CAC facilities is low and similar to other settings; however, significant differences in complication rates were observed by facility type and gestational age. Interventions such as supportive supervision to improve providers' uterine evacuation skills and investment in equipment for infection control may lower complication rates in government facilities. In addition, there should be increased focus on early pregnancy detection and access to CAC services early in pregnancy in order to prevent complications. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5560266 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5560266 Living with diabetes: Rationale, study design and baseline characteristics for an Australian prospective cohort study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5560050&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F8 DiscussionThe data collected by the Living With Diabetes Study provides a good representation of Australians with diabetes to follow over time in order to better understand the natural course of the illness. The study has potential to further illuminate, and give a comprehensive picture of the psychosocial implications of living with diabetes. Data collection is ongoing. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5560050 Thu, 05 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5560050 Active living neighborhoods: is neighborhood walkability a key element for Belgian adolescents? http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5559205&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F7 Conclusions: Neighborhood walkability was related to accelerometer-based physical activity only among adolescent boys and girls living in low-SES neighborhoods. The relation of built environment to adolescent physical activity may depend on the context. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5559205 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5559205 Oral and Anal Sex Practices among high school youth in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5559075&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F5 Conclusion: Considerable proportion of adolescents had engaged in oral and anal sex practices. Multiple sexual partnerships were common while consistent condom use was low. Sexual health education and behavior change communication strategies need to cover a full range of sexual practices. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5559075 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5559075 A single-blind randomised controlled trial of the effects of a web-based decision aid on self-testing for cholesterol and diabetes. Study protocol. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5559074&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F6 This study is the first to evaluate the effect of an online decision aid for self-testing.Trial registrationDutch Trial Register: NTR3149 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5559074 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5559074 Cell type specificity of female lung cancer associated with sulfur dioxide from air pollutants in Taiwan: An ecological study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5558833&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F4 Conclusion: The current study suggests that SO2 exposure as an air pollutant may increase female lung cancer incidence and the associations with female lung cancer is much stronger for SCC than for AC. The findings of this study warrant further investigation on the role of SO2 in the etiology of SCC. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5558833 Wed, 04 Jan 2012 03:50:21 +0100 5558833 Understanding Patient Acceptance and Refusal of HIV Testing in the Emergency Department http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5557946&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F3 Conclusions: Testing for HIV in the ED as for any other health problem reduces barriers to testing for some but not all patients. Patients who decline ED HIV testing may have rational reasons, but there are some patients who avoid HIV testing because of psychosocial ramifications. While ED HIV testing is generally acceptable, more targeted approaches to testing are necessary for this subgroup. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5557946 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5557946 Internal construct validity of the Shirom-Melamed Burnout Questionnaire (SMBQ) http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5557883&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F1 Conclusion: A revised 18 item version of the SMBQ satisfies modern measurement standards. Using its cut point it offers the opportunity to identify potential clinical cases of burnout. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5557883 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5557883 A systematic review of economic evaluations of interventions to tackle cardiovascular disease in low- and middle-income countries http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5557882&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F12%2F2 Conclusion: The cost-effectiveness evidence on CVD interventions in developing countries is growing, but remains scarce, and is biased towards pharmaceutical interventions. While the burden of cardiovascular disease is growing in these countries, future research should put greater emphasis on non-clinical interventions than has hitherto been the case. Significant differences in outcome measures and methodologies prohibit a direct ranking of the interventions by their degree of cost-effectiveness. Considerable caution should be exercised when transferring effectiveness estimates from developed countries for the purpose of modelling cost-effectiveness in developing countries. New local CVD risk factor and intervention follow-up studies are needed. Some pharmaceutical strategies appear cost-e... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5557882 Tue, 03 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5557882 The impact of injuries study. Multicentre study assessing physical, psychological, social and occupational functioning post injury - a protocol http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5552898&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F963 This study will quantify physical, psychological, social and occupational functioning and health and social care utilisation following a range of different types of injury and will assess the impact of psychological disorders on function and health service use. The findings will be used to guide the development of interventions to maximise recovery post injury. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5552898 Sat, 31 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5552898 Validation of obesity based on self-reported data in Spanish women participants in breast cancer screening programmes http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5551048&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F960 Conclusions: Quantification of self-reported obesity entails a considerable underestimation of this problem, thereby questioning its validity. The new cut-off points established in this study and the predictive equation both allow for more accurate estimation of these prevalences. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5551048 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5551048 Protocol for a national, mixed-methods knowledge, attitudes and practices survey on non-communicable diseases http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5551047&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F961 This study aimed to assess, describe and explore the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the Mongolian adult population around NCDs in order to better understand the drivers and therefore develop more appropriate solutions to this growing disease burden. In addition, it aimed to provide data for the evaluation of current public health programs and to assist in building effective, evidence-based health policy.Methods/designThis national survey consisted of both quantitative and qualitative methods. A quantitative household-based questionnaire was conducted using a nationally representative sample of 3854 rural and urban households. Participants were selected using a multi-stage cluster sampling technique in 42 regions across Mongolia, including rural and urban sites. Permanent residents o... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5551047 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5551047 A comparison of the effectiveness of three parenting programmes in improving parenting skills, parent mental well-being and children's behaviour when implemented on a large scale in community settings in 18 English local authorities: the Parenting Early Intervention Pathfinder (PEIP) http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5551046&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F962 Conclusions: Evidence-based parenting programmes can be implemented successfully on a large scale in community settings despite the lack of concentrated and sustained support available during a controlled trial. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5551046 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5551046 The Strathclyde Evaluation of Children's Active Travel (SE-CAT): Study rationale and methods http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550932&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F958 This study was limited by self-reported outcome measures, a small sample, and no follow-up measures. A more robust evaluation of TG is required to address these limitations. This paper describes the rationale and methods for such an evaluation of Travelling Green, and describes the piloting of various active commuting measures in primary school children. Methods: Measures of active commuting were piloted in a sample of 26 children (aged 8-9 years) over one school week. These measures were subsequently used in an 18-month quasi-experimental design to evaluate the effect of TG on commuting behaviour. Participants were 166 children (60% male) aged 8-9 years from 5 primary schools. Two schools (n = 79 children) received TG in September/October 2009. Three schools (n = 87 children) acted as a c... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550932 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5550932 Assessing the influence of the built environment on physical activity for utility and recreation in suburban Metro Vancouver http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5550931&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F959 Conclusions: These results suggest that walking for errands and leisure have a greater association with the built environment than other dimensions of physical activity. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5550931 Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5550931 "Half plate of rice to a male casual sexual partner, full plate belongs to the husband": Findings from a qualitative study on sexual behaviour in relation to HIV and AIDS in Northern Tanzania http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5544550&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F957 Conclusions: HIV prevention efforts can succeed by addressing sexual behaviour and its socio-economic and cultural contexts. More innovative,interdisciplinary and productive structural approaches to HIV prevention need to be developed in close collaboration with affected communities and be closely related to policy-making and implementation; to go beyond the limited success of traditional behavioural and biomedical interventions to particularly address the underlying social and structural drivers of HIV risk and vulnerability in the study communities. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5544550 Wed, 28 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5544550 Is the core-periphery labour market structure related to perceived health? Findings of the Northern Swedish Cohort http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5543750&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F956 This study aims at examining whether 1) the accumulation of time in peripheral labour market positions is associated with psychological distress and poor or average self-rated health; 2) the proposed association is different among women than among men.MethodParticipants in the 1995 and 2007 follow-up surveys of the Northern Swedish Cohort (n=985) completed self-administered questionnaires about psychological and general health and about employment positions during the follow-up years. Associations between 12-year peripheral labour market positions (no, low, medium and high exposure) and health were examined using logistic regression. Results: Exposure to peripheral employment was positively related to psychological distress in both women and men (p-values for trend (Source: BMC Public Heal... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5543750 Tue, 27 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5543750 HIV/STD Pattern and its associated risk factors among male STD clinic attendees in China: A foci for HIV intervention http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5542517&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F955 Conclusions: A modest prevalence of HIV infection and substantial prevalence of other STD infections were found among male patients attending public STD clinics in China. The findings further support the introduction of HIV and syphilis PITC strategy into this important setting. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5542517 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5542517 The cost-effectiveness of exercise referral schemes http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5542364&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F954 Conclusions: ERS is associated with modest increase in lifetime costs and benefits. The cost-effectiveness of ERS is highly sensitive to small changes in the effectiveness and cost of ERS and is subject to some significant uncertainty mainly due to limitations in the clinical effectiveness evidence base. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5542364 Mon, 26 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5542364 The excess mortality risk of diabetes associated with functional decline in older adults: Results from a 7-year follow-up of a nationwide cohort in Taiwan http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5533894&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F953 Conclusions: Our results indicate that diabetes is not associated with increased mortality in those with high functioning. There was a gradient effect of functional decline on mortality in individuals with diabetes. Additionally, among participants with other chronic conditions, functional decline was associated with a greater burden of mortality in older adults with diabetes. These findings highlight the critical importance of the prevention of cardiovascular disease morbidity and the maintenance of functional abilities in order to reduce mortality risk in older adults with diabetes. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5533894 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5533894 Study of Women, Infant Feeding, and Type 2 diabetes mellitus after GDM pregnancy (SWIFT), a prospective cohort study: methodology and design http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5533704&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F952 This report describes the design and methods implemented for this study to obtain the clinical, biochemical, anthropometric, and behavioral measurements during the recruitment and follow-up phases. Methods: SWIFT is a prospective, observational cohort study enrolling and following over 1,000 postpartum women diagnosed with GDM during pregnancy within KPNC. The study enrolled women at 6-9 weeks postpartum (baseline) who had been diagnosed by standard GDM criteria, aged 20-45 years, delivered a singleton, term (greater than or equal to 35 weeks gestation) live birth, were not using medications affecting glucose tolerance, and not planning another pregnancy or moving out of the area within the next 2 years. Participants who are free of type 2 diabetes and other serious medical conditions at b... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5533704 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5533704 Summer effects on body mass index (BMI) gain and growth patterns of American Indian children from kindergarten to first grade: a prospective study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5531377&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F951 Conclusions: There was no indication of a significant summer effect on children's BMI. Rather than seasonal or school-related patterns, the predominant pattern indicated by weight-Z and BMI-Z velocities might be related to age or maturation. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5531377 Fri, 23 Dec 2011 03:50:23 +0100 5531377 Sugar sweetened beverage consumption by Australian children: Implications for public health strategy http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530229&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F950 Conclusions: SSB intake by Australian children remains high and warrants continued public health attention. Evidence based and age-targeted interventions, which also recognise supermarkets as the primary source of SSB, are recommended to reduce SSB consumption among children. Additionally, education of parents and children regarding the health consequences of high consumption of both carbonated and non-carbonated SSBs is required. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530229 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530229 Family social environment in childhood and self-rated health in young adulthood http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5527658&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F949 Conclusion: These results argue for interventions that enhance family cohesion, particularly after family disruptions during childhood, in order to promote health in young adulthood. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5527658 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5527658 Do social inequalities in health widen or converge with age? Longitudinal evidence from three cohorts in the West of Scotland http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5527416&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F947 Conclusions: There is a general belief that social inequalities in health appear to narrow at older ages; however, taking account of selective mortality and employing more proximal measures of SES removes this convergence, suggesting inequalities in health continue into old age. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5527416 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5527416 Chronic disease knowledge and its determinants among chronically ill adults in rural areas of Shanxi Province in China: a cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5527415&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F948 Background: Chronic disease knowledge is an important prerequisite for an individual to implement behavioural changes towards the prevention and control of chronic diseases (CDs). Limited information is available about the relationship between different levels of health services and CD knowledge among rural residents with CDs. This research explores the distribution characteristics of CD knowledge and its determinants among chronically ill adults in rural China according to the aspects of patients and health service providers. Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken to estimate distribution characteristics of CD knowledge and collect data of socio-demographic characteristics, healthcare institutions attendances, duration of illness, and family history of CDs. Participants were 1060... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5527415 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5527415 Effect of nutritional supplementation of breastfeeding HIV positive mothers on maternal and child health: findings from a randomized controlled clinical trial http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5527099&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F946 Conclusions: A 50 g daily nutritional supplement to breastfeeding mothers had no or limited effect on maternal and child health outcomes.Clinical Trial registration: ISRCTN68128332 (http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN68128332) (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5527099 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5527099 Prognostic factors for disability claim duration due to musculoskeletal symptoms among self-employed persons http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5526532&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F945 Conclusions: The prognostic factors we found indicate that for self-employed persons, the duration of a disability claim not only depends on the (history of) impairment of the insured, but also on age, self-predicted return to work and job satisfaction. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5526532 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5526532 A family based tailored counselling to increase non-exercise physical activity in adults with a sedentary job and physical activity in their young children: Design and methods of a year-long randomized controlled trial http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5520454&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F944 This study can also provide knowledge whether the lifestyle changes are transformed into relevant biomarkers and self-reported health.Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN28668090 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5520454 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5520454 Making sense of perceptions of risk of diseases and vaccinations: a qualitative study combining models of health beliefs, decision-making and risk perception http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5519988&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F943 Conclusion: This study has found that health messages about the risks of disease which are communicated as though there is equality of risk in the population may be unproductive as these messages are perceived as unbelievable or irrelevant. The findings from this study have implications beyond the issue of childhood vaccinations as we grapple with communicating risks of new epidemics, and indeed may usefully contribute to the current debate especially in the UK of how these theories of risk and decision-making can be used to 'nudge' other health behaviours. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5519988 Tue, 20 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5519988 Prevention of Overweight in Infancy (POI.nz) study: a randomised controlled trial of sleep, food and activity interventions for preventing overweight from birth http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5516000&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F942 This study will contribute to a prospective meta-analysis of early life obesity prevention studies in Australasia.DiscussionInfancy is likely to be the most effective time to establish patterns of behaviour around food, activity and sleep that promote healthy child and adult weight. The POI.nz study will determine the extent to which sleep, food and activity interventions in infancy prevent the development of overweight.Trial Registration:Clinical Trials NCT00892983Prospective meta-analysis registered on PROSPERO CRD420111188. Available from http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5516000 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5516000 Adequacy of diabetes care for older U.S. rural adults: A cross-sectional population based study using 2009 BRFSS data http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5507282&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F940 Conclusion: There are gaps between what is recommended for diabetes management and the management that older individuals receive. Older adults with diabetes living in rural communities are at greater risk for less than adequate care when compared to their non-rural counterparts. These results suggest the need to develop strategies to improve diabetes care for older adults with diabetes and to target those at highest risk. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5507282 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5507282 Smokers' reactions to FDA regulation of tobacco products: Findings from the 2009 ITC United States survey http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5507281&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F941 Conclusion: Most smokers were limited in their understanding of efforts to regulate tobacco products in general. Smokers were supportive of efforts to better inform the public about health risks, restrict advertising, and make tobacco products less addictive. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5507281 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5507281 The relation between media promotions and service volume for a statewide tobacco quitline and a web-based cessation program http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5507014&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F939 Conclusion: Overall, broadcast advertising had a greater impact on registrations for the web program than calls to the quitline. Furthermore, registrations for the web program influenced calls to the quitline. These two findings suggest the evolving roles of web-based cessation programs and Internet-use practices should be considered when creating cessation programs and media campaigns to promote them. Additionally, because different types of media and campaigns were positively associated with calls to the quitline and web registrations, developing mass media campaigns that offer a variety of messages and communicate through different types of media to motivate tobacco users to seek services appears important to reach tobacco users. Further research is needed to better understand the compl... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5507014 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5507014 Promoting STI testing among senior vocational students in Rotterdam, the Netherlands: effects of a cluster randomized study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5506806&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F937 Background: Adolescents are a risk group for acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In the Netherlands, senior vocational school students are particular at risk. However, STI test rates among adolescents are low and interventions that promote testing are scarce. To enhance voluntary STI testing, an intervention was designed and evaluated in senior vocational schools. The intervention combined classroom health education with sexual health services at the school site. The purpose of this study was to assess the combined and single effects on STI testing of health education and school- based sexual health services. Methods: In a cluster-randomized study the intervention was evaluated in 24 schools, using three experimental conditions: 1) health education, 2) sexual health services;... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5506806 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5506806 Associations between characteristics of the home food environment and fruit and vegetable intake in preschool children: A cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5506805&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F938 This study aimed to identify the characteristics of the home food environment that are associated with higher fruit and vegetable consumption in a sample of Australian preschool children. Methods: A cross-sectional telephone survey was conducted with 396 parents of 3 to 5 year-old children attending 30 preschools within the Hunter region, New South Wales, Australia. Children's fruit and vegetable consumption was measured using a valid and reliable subscale from the Children's Dietary Questionnaire. Associations were investigated between children's fruit and vegetable intake and characteristics of the home food environment including parental role-modeling, parental providing behaviour, fruit and vegetable availability, fruit and vegetable accessibility, pressure to eat, family eating polici... BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5506805 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5506805 Facilitating adherence to physical activity: exercise professionals' experiences of the National Exercise Referral Scheme in Wales. A qualitative study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5503701&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F935 Conclusions: Whether ERS should identify motivated patients, or incorporate activities to support internalisation of motivation amongst less motivated patients deserves attention. As well as providing the knowledge to advise patients on how to exercise safely given their conditions, professionals' training should focus on providing the skills to meet the interpersonal support needs of patients, particularly where ERS are used as a means of improving mental health outcomes. The effectiveness of emerging activities, such as post-scheme maintenance classes, in fostering long-term social networks supportive of physical activity deserve attention.Trial registration: Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN47680448 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5503701 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5503701 Giving offspring a healthy start: parents' experiences of health promotion and lifestyle change during pregnancy and early parenthood http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5503700&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F936 Conclusion: Perceptions about risks to the offspring's health appear to be the primary driving force for lifestyle change during pregnancy and early parenthood. However, as parents' motivation to prioritise their own health per se seems to be low during this period, future health promoting programmes need to take this into account. A more gender equal provision of health promotion to parents might increase men's involvement in lifestyle change. Furthermore, parents' ranking of major lifestyle risks to the fetus may not sufficiently reflect those that constitute greatest public health concern, an area for further study. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5503700 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5503700 Public health research outputs from efficacy to dissemination: A bibliometric analysis http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5503155&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F934 Conclusions: Intervention research studies remain only a modest proportion of all published studies in physical activity and falls prevention; the majority of the intervention studies, are efficacy studies although there is growing evidence of a move towards replication and dissemination studies, which may have greater potential for improving population health. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5503155 Thu, 15 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5503155 The mPED randomized controlled clinical trial: Applying mobile persuasive technologies to increase physical activity in sedentary women protocol http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502542&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F933 DiscussionIf efficacy of the intervention with a mobile phone is demonstrated, the results of this RCT will be able to provide new insights for current behavioral sciences and mHealth.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov#:NCTO1280812 (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502542 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5502542 Vaccination against 2009 pandemic H1N1 in a population dynamical model of Vancouver, Canada: timing is everything http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502265&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F932 Conclusion: Delays in vaccine production due to technological or logistical barriers may reduce potential benefits of vaccination for pandemic influenza, and these temporal effects can outweigh any additional theoretical benefits from population targeting. Careful modeling may provide decision makers with estimates of these effects before the epidemic peak to guide production goals and inform policy. Integration of real-time surveillance data with mathematical models holds the promise of enabling public health planners to optimize the community benefits from proposed interventions before the pandemic peak. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502265 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5502265 Adverse trends of cardiovascular risk factors among low risk populations (1983-1994) - A cohort study of workers and farmers in Guangzhou, China http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5502128&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F931 Conclusion: Urgent action is needed to prevent and reverse the unhealthy trends occurring among these low risk Chinese workers and farmers. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5502128 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5502128 Neighbourhood crime and smoking: the role of objective and perceived crime measures http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501934&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F930 Conclusions: Our findings highlight the relevance of paying attention to both objective and perceived neighbourhood crime measures when aiming to prevent smoking. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501934 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501934 Dietary patterns and hypertension among Chinese adults: a nationally representative cross-sectional study http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501284&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F925 Conclusions: We observed a positive relationship between the traditional northern pattern and hypertension that was mediated through differences in BMI. In addition, the traditional southern pattern was significantly associated with lower odds of presenting with hypertension. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501284 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501284 The association of physical activity, sedentary behaviors, and body mass index classification in a cross-sectional analysis: are the effects homogenous? http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501283&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F926 Conclusion: PA and watching television were more related to BMI for obese individuals than those who were just overweight. Customized interventions for specific BMI classifications should be developed to maximize public health benefits. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501283 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501283 Protocol for the modeling the epidemiologic transition study: a longitudinal observational study of energy balance and change in body weight, diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501282&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F927 DiscussionMETS will provide insight on the relative contribution of physical activity and diet to excess weight, age-related weight gain and incident glucose impairment in five populations' samples of young adults at different stages of economic development. These data should be useful for the development of empirically-based public health policy aimed at the prevention of obesity and associated chronic diseases. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501282 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501282 Investigation of occupational and environmental causes of respiratory cancers (ICARE): a multicenter, population-based case-control study in France http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501281&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.biomedcentral.com%2F1471-2458%2F11%2F928 DiscussionThe large number of subjects should allow to uncover exposures associated with moderate increase in risks, and to evaluate risks associated with infrequent or widely dispersed exposures. It will be possible to study joint effects of exposure to different occupational risk factors, to examine the interactions between occupational exposures, tobacco smoking, alcohol drinking, and genetic risk factors, and to estimate the proportion of respiratory cancers attributable to occupational exposures in France. In addition, information on many non-occupational risk factors is available, and the study will provide an excellent framework for numerous studies in various fields. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501281 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501281 Who is using snus? - Time trends, socioeconomic and geographic characteristics of snus users in the ageing Swedish population. http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5501280&cid=s_34048_26_f&fid=34048&url=%24%7Bitem.link%7D Conclusions: A disadvantaged social profile and also higher prevalence in rural areas is observed among male snus users who had never smoked or were previous smokers. Among male smokers there was no association between SES and use of snus. The prevalence of snus use among women is increasing, but is still considerably lower than that of men. The association between snus and SES characteristics is less pronounced among women, although snus is clearly linked to living alone. These patterns should be taken into consideration in tobacco control policies. (Source: BMC Public Health - Latest articles) BMC Public Health - Latest articles journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5501280 Wed, 14 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5501280