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 'Conflict and Health' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:35:49 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5623449&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F6%2F1%2F1 Conclusion: Hopes regarding education and family reunion were central in the resettlement of West African refugees in Sweden. These thoughts were not systematically followed up by the support organization; possibly the resources for refugees were not fully released. More studies are needed to further investigate the motivational factors underpinning host community support of refugees' hopes and plans. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5623449 Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5623449 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5371290&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F25 Background: The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is the deadliest since World War II. Over a decade of fighting amongst an array of armed groups has resulted in extensive human rights abuses, particularly the widespread use of sexual violence against women. Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, we surveyed a non-random sample of 255 women attending a referral hospital and two local non-governmental organizations to characterize their experiences with sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). We then conducted focus groups with 48 female survivors of SGBV to elaborate on survey findings. Quantitative and qualitative data underwent thematic and statistical analysis respectively.FindingsOf the women surveyed, 193 (75.7%) experienced rape. Twenty-nine percent of rap... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5371290 Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5371290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5341725&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F22 Conclusions: The study demonstrated that conflicts disrupt the socio-cultural set up of communities and destroy sources of people's livelihood. Post-conflict socio-economic reconstruction needs to encompass programmes that restructure people's morals and values through counselling. HIV/AIDS prevention programming in post-conflict communities should deal with socio-cultural disruptions that emerged during conflicts. Some of the disruptions if not dealt with, could become normalized yet they are predisposing factors to HRSB. Socio-economic vulnerability as a consequence of conflict seemed to be associated with HRSB through alterations in sexual morality. To pursue safer sexual health choices, people in post-conflict communities need life skills. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5341725 Wed, 19 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5341725 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5266421&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F21 Conclusions: Measles outbreaks continue to occur in humanitarian emergencies due to low levels of pre-existing population immunity. According to available published information, cases continue to occur in children over age 5. Preventing cases in older age groups may prevent younger children from becoming infected and reduce mortality in both younger and older age groups. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5266421 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5266421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5255688&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F20 Conclusions: Understanding how urban refugees cope by negotiating access to various forms of recognition in the absence of legal-recognition will enable organisations working with them to leverage such strengths and develop relevant programmes. In particular, building on these existing resources will lead to culturally compelling and sustainable care for these populations. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5255688 Sat, 24 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5255688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5244347&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F19 Conclusions: The availability of a centralized database of health information across UNHCR-supported refugee settlements is a rich resource. The SPHERE standard for emergencies of 1-4 visits per person per year appears to be relevant for Asia in the post-emergency phase, but not for Africa. In Africa, a post-emergency standard of 1-2 visits per person per year should be considered. Although it is often assumed that the size of the female population in refugee settlements is higher than males, we found no statistically significant difference between the size of the male and female populations in refugee settlements overall. Another assumption---that the under-fives make up 20% of the settlement population during the emergency phase---does not appear to hold for the post-emergency phase; und... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5244347 Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5244347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5244348&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F18 Conclusions: Multilevel, context-specific health interventions including an integration of family planning services into HIV clinics could help overcome some of the individual and structural barriers to accessing family planning services among PLHIV in Gulu. The integration also has the potential to reduce HIV incidence in this post-conflict region. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5244348 Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5244348 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5230748&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F17 Conclusions: These findings represent one of the most extensive reports on malaria among refugees in post-emergency sites. Despite declines in malaria incidence among refugees in several countries, malaria remains a significant cause of mortality among children younger than five years of age. Further progress in malaria control, both within and outside of post-emergency sites, is necessary to further reduce malaria incidence and mortality among refugees and achieve global goals in malaria control and elimination. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5230748 Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5230748 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201560&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F16 Conclusion: Syphilis continues to be highly prevalent in demobilized child soldiers in Eastern Congo. Syphilis screening tests are recommended. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201560 Tue, 06 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201560 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5189393&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F15 Background: Recent reports have drawn attention to increases in congenital birth anomalies and cancer in Fallujah Iraq blamed on teratogenic, genetic and genomic stress thought to result from depleted Uranium contamination following the battles in the town in 2004. Contamination of the parents of the children and of the environment by Uranium and other elements was investigated using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Hair samples from 25 fathers and mothers of children diagnosed with congenital anomalies were analysed for Uranium and 51 other elements. Mean ages of the parents was: fathers 29.6 (SD 6.2); mothers: 27.3 (SD 6.8). For a sub-group of 6 women, long locks of hair were analysed for Uranium along the length of the hair to obtain information about historic exposures. Sa... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5189393 Thu, 01 Sep 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5189393 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5167277&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F14 Conclusions: Former abductees continue to suffer from severe mental ill-health. Adaptation to the living condition of rebels, however, may lower trauma-related mental suffering. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5167277 Thu, 25 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5167277 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5152859&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F13 Fragile states are home to a sixth of the world's population, and their populations are particularly vulnerable to infectious disease outbreaks. Timely surveillance and control are essential to minimise the impact of these outbreaks, but little evidence is published about the effectiveness of existing surveillance systems. We did a systematic review of the circumstances (mode) of detection of outbreaks occurring in 22 fragile states in the decade 2000-2010 (i.e. all states consistently meeting fragility criteria during the timeframe of the review), as well as time lags from onset to detection of these outbreaks, and from detection to further events in their timeline. The aim of this review was to enhance the evidence base for implementing infectious disease surveillance in these complex, r... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5152859 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5152859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5034394&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: The delivery of surgical care in any conflict-settings is difficult, but in situations where international support is limited, the challenges are more extreme. In this model, task shifting, or the provision of services by less trained cadres, was utilized and peri-operative mortality remained low demonstrating that safe surgical practices can be accomplished even without the presence of fully trained surgeon and anesthesiologists. If security improves in Somalia, on-site training by expatriate surgeons and anesthesiologists will be re-established. Until then, the best way MSF has found to support surgical care in Somalia is continue to support in a "remote" manner. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5034394 Thu, 14 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5034394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5025427&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F11 Conclusions: Family planning services are desired by women living in crisis situations when offered in a manner appropriate to their needs, yet services are rarely adequate to meet these needs. Refugee and internally displaced women must be included in national and donors' plans to improve family planning in Africa. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5025427 Tue, 12 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5025427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4990096&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F10 Conclusions: Peer education was most strongly associated with reported HIV-avoidant behaviour change. Gender was most associated with HIV knowledge and risk perception. Refugee women had fewer misconceptions than men had, but were more likely to report HIV risk and less likely to report making behavioural changes. Peer education appears promising for HIV interventions in chronic-emergency settings, if gender disparities and related barriers to condom usage are also addressed. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4990096 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4990096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4973463&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F9 Conclusion: While the incidence of diarrhea, dysentery and ARI increased post-Nargis in areas affected by the incident, the incidence rate for other diseases and mortality rates did not increase, and normal disease patterns resumed by 2009. This suggests that health services as well as prevention and control measures provided to the Nargis-affected population mitigated what could have been a far more severe health impact. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4973463 Mon, 27 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4973463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4869263&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F7 We present here the challenges of carrying out HAT control programmes in general and in a conflict-affected region of DRC. We discuss the difficulties of measuring disease burden, medical care complexities, waning international support, and research and development barriers for HAT.DiscussionIn 2007, Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) began screening for HAT in the Haut-Uele and Bas-Uele districts of Orientale Province in northeastern DRC, an area of high prevalence affected by armed conflict. Through early 2009, HAT prevalence rate of 3.4% was found, reaching 10% in some villages. More than 46,000 patients were screened and 1,570 treated for HAT during this time. In March 2009, two treatment centres were forced to close due to insecurity, disrupting patient treatment, follow-up, and transmiss... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4869263 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4869263 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4826776&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F6 Addressing increasing concerns about public health equity in the context of violent conflict and the consequent forced displacement of populations is complex. Important operational questions now faced by humanitarian agencies can to some extent be clarified by reference to relevant ethical theory. Priorities of service delivery, the allocation choices and the processes by which they are arrived at are now coming under renewed scrutiny in the light of the estimated two million refugees who fled from Iraq since 2003. Operational questions that need to be addressed include health as a relative priority, allocations between and within different populations, and transition and exit strategies. Public health equity issues faced by the humanitarian community can be framed as issues of resource al... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4826776 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4826776 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4702220&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F5 Conclusions: Refugee-led maternal health education appeared to increase facility delivery for these refugee women. Improved knowledge of danger signs and the importance of skilled birth attendance, while vital, may be less important in chronic emergency settings than improving facility access where quality of care is acceptable. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4702220 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4702220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4558086&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F3 Background: For more than forty years, episodes of violence in the Mindanao conflict have recurrently led to civilian displacement. In 2008, Medecins Sans Frontieres set up a mental health program integrated into primary health care in Mindanao Region. In this article, we describe a model of mental health care and the characteristics and outcomes of patients attending mental health services. Methods: Psychologists working in mobile clinics assessed patients referred by trained clinicians located at primary level. They provided psychological first aid, brief psychotherapy and referral for severe patients. Patient characteristics and outcomes in terms of Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ20) and Global Assessment of Functioning score (GAF) are described. Results: Among the 463 adult patients ... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4558086 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4558086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4558085&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: The population-based figures greatly augment existing information on human rights violations in CAR, and represent a step forward in quantifying the protection needs of Central Africans. Government, donors, and international organizations should make use of this data to better inform advocacy, prevention, and response programs, to assist in fundraising, and to develop surveillance activities to monitor child protection concerns. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4558085 Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4558085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4554029&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F2 Conclusions: This study provides data that only few hospitals in Goma care for victims of sexual violence. In addition, these hospitals suffer from a relevant shortage of human and material resources to provide adequate care for sexually abused females. Aside from establishment of adequate protection strategies, steps must be taken to increase the availability of trained health care professionals and resources to provide adequate care for victims of sexual violence in Goma and the North Kivu province. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4554029 Sun, 06 Mar 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4554029 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4463157&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F1 Conclusions: The six studies show the feasibility and value of conducting rapid assessments in displaced populations. One outcome of these studies is the development of a UNHCR/WHO field guide on rapid assessment of alcohol and other substance use among conflict-affected populations. More work is required on gathering population-based epidemiological data, and much more experience is required on delivering effective interventions. Presentation of these findings should contribute to increased awareness, improved response, and more vigorous debate around this important but neglected area. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4463157 Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 +0100 4463157 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4244010&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F21 Conclusions: Programming responsive to both the evidence-base and stakeholder priorities is always desirable and provides a foundation for long-term planning and response. In frozen conflict, low resource settings, such an approach is critical to balancing the community's immediate humanitarian needs with sponsor concerns and constraints. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4244010 Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4244010 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4218069&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F20 Conclusion: The lessons learnt from Nepal could be replicable elsewhere in conflict and post-conflict environments. A nationwide large-scale empirical study is needed to further assess the determinants of Nepal's success in the health sector at a time the country experienced a decade of armed conflict. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4218069 Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4218069 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4211476&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F19 Conclusion: Medical professionals were generally unsatisfied with the different aspects of the health system in Iraqi Kurdistan region. A number of problems and different priority needs for health system improvement have been recognized that require to be studied in more details. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4211476 Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4211476 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4195008&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F18 Conclusions: Development partners including civil society organisations, central government, district administration, religious and cultural leaders as well as other stakeholders should mainstream HIV in all community development and livelihood interventions in the post conflict Pader district to curtail the likely escalation of the HIV epidemic. A comprehensive behaviour change communication strategy is urgently needed to address the negative cultural practices. Real progress in the region lies in advocacy and negotiation to realise lasting peace. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4195008 Mon, 22 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4195008 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4148320&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F17 Conclusions: Our results show the impact of the ongoing war on these civilian populations: one third of deaths were violent in two sites, individuals are frequently subjected to violence, and displacements and theft are common. While humanitarian aid may have had a positive impact on disease mortality and access to care, the population remains exposed to extremely high levels of violence. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4148320 Mon, 08 Nov 2010 00:00:00 +0100 4148320 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3991352&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F16 Conclusions: The victims reported a high prevalence of severe pain and emotional disturbance. They showed high BMI and a reduced level of physical fitness. Education, employment, political and social participation were associated with emotional well-being. Interventions to promote physical activity and social participation are recommended. The results indicate that the rapid assessment procedure used here offers an adequate tool for collecting data for the monitoring of health interventions among the most vulnerable groups of a population exposed to violence. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3991352 Mon, 20 Sep 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3991352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3879530&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F15 Conclusion: Civilian male adolescents and young adults constituted the majority of hospitalized landmine victims in Erbil governorate. While a high proportion of victims sustained lower limb amputations, upper limb amputations particularly among children and injury to head and face were relatively common which might be attributed to handling explosives. This emphasizes the need to examine the reasons behind handling explosives. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3879530 Tue, 17 Aug 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3879530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3804623&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F14 Conclusions: This study indicates that the conflict had an impact on mental health and economic conditions far beyond the area where the actual violent events took place, in a diminishing pattern in line with the hypothesis of a ripple effect. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3804623 Thu, 29 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3804623 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3752843&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F13 Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a generational effect of exposure to mustard gas. The lasting effects of mustard gas exposure in parents effects fertility and may impact child health and development in the long-term. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3752843 Tue, 13 Jul 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3752843 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3669933&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: With commitment, simplified treatment and monitoring, and adaptations for potential instability, HIV treatment can be feasibly and effectively provided in conflict or post-conflict settings. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3669933 Wed, 16 Jun 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3669933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3609255&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F11 Background: The aim of this population-based study was to assess the long-lasting effects of ethnic conflict on health and well-being (with a focus on injury and persistent pain) at family and community level. We have also investigated possible risk factors for victimisation during the conflict and factors contributing to healing. Methods: We conducted a district-level cross-sectional cluster survey of 1,115 households with a population of 6,845. Interviews were carried out in Mitrovice district in Northern Kosovo from September to October 2008, using standardised questionnaire to collect lifetime violence exposure, lifestyle factors and health information on individual and household. Results: Ethnic Albanians made up 95% of the sample population. Crude mortality and under-five mortality r... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3609255 Thu, 27 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3609255 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536787&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: The majority of sexual violence in South Kivu occurs in women's own homes, often at night. This represents a pattern of violence that differs from other conflict settings and has important implications regarding protection strategies. Sexual violence in South Kivu is also marked with a predominance of gang rape, thus increasing the risk of serious injury as well as the likelihood of an individual woman contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Sexual slavery was noted to be more common among young, single women and was found to have a high rate of resultant pregnancy. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536787 Tue, 04 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3536787 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3536786&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F10 : The author argues that measuring mortality in conflict settings is fraught with limitations which mostly result in under-estimation of mortality. Some recent publications on this subject have been based upon convenient surveillance processes, or even press reports. The author calls for vigilance against such studies and argues that war related surveillance-based mortality estimates should include measures of sensitivity and representativeness. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3536786 Tue, 04 May 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3536786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3485734&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F8 Conclusions: Basic needs of many cyclone survivors in the Irrawaddy Delta remained unmet over a year following Cyclone Nargis. Official impediments to delivery of aid to storm survivors continued, including human rights abrogations experienced by civilians during reconstruction efforts. Such issues remain unaddressed in official assessments conducted in partnership with the SPDC. Private, community-based relief organizations like EAT are well positioned and able to independently assess human rights conditions in response to complex humanitarian emergencies such as Cyclone Nargis; efforts of this nature must be encouraged, particularly in settings where human rights abuses have been documented and censorship is widespread. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3485734 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3485734 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3478953&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F7 The impact of conflict on population health and health infrastructure has been well documented; however the effort to rebuild health systems in post-conflict periods has not been systematically examined. Based on a review of relevant literature, this paper develops a framework for analyzing health reform in post-conflict settings, and applies this framework to the case study of health system reform in Kosovo. The paper examines two questions: first, the selection of health reform measures; and second, the outcome of the reform process. Through an examination of primary documents and interviews with key stakeholders, the paper demonstrates that the external nature of the reform process, the compressed time period for reform, and weak state capacity undermined the success of the reform progr... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3478953 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3478953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3466057&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F6 Background: The provision of surgical assistance in conflict is often associated with care for victims of violence. However, there is an increasing appreciation that surgical care is needed for non-traumatic morbidities. In this paper we report on surgical interventions carried out by Medecins sans Frontieres in Masisi, North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo to contribute to the scarce evidence base on surgical needs in conflict. Methods: We analysed data on all surgical interventions done at Masisi district hospital between September 2007 to December 2009. Types of interventions are described, and logistic regression used to model associations with violence-related injury. Results: 2869 operations were performed on 2441 patients. Obstetric emergencies accounted for over half (675, 57%) ... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3466057 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3466057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3402093&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F5 Conclusions: The long conflict in Myanmar and the resultant long stay in refugee camps over decades affect the wellbeing of these young people. Lack of sexual health education and relevant services, and their concerns for their future are particular problems, which need to be addressed. Issues of education, vocational training and job possibilities also need to be considered.*Burmese is used for all ethnic groups (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3402093 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3402093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3219192&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F1 Conclusion: Patients from conflict zones have a longer delay in receiving a diagnosis of TB and have higher levels of self treatment utilization. This suggests that access to TB care should be improved by the expansion of user friendly directly observed therapy short-course (DOTS) in the conflict zones of the region. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3219192 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3219192 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3113828&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F13 Colombia has been seriously affected by an internal armed conflict for more than 40 years affecting mainly the civilian population, who is forced to displace, suffers kidnapping, extortion, threats and assassinations. Between 2005 and 2008, Medecins Sans Frontieres-France provided psychological care and treatment in the region of Tolima, a strategic place in the armed conflict. The mental health program was based on a short-term multi-faceted treatment developed according to the psychological, psychosomatic and humanitarian needs of the population. Here we describe the population attending during 2005-2008, both in urban and rural settings, as well as the psychological treatment provided during this period and its outcomes.We observed differences between the urban and rural settings in the... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3113828 Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3113828 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3110286&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: Women's lives can be saved and their well-being improved with functioning RH services. As the DRC stabilizes, IRC and CARE in partnership with the local Ministry of Health and other service provision partners are improving RH services by: 1) providing necessary equipment and renovations to health facilities; 2) improving supply management systems; 3) providing comprehensive competency-based training for health providers in RH and infection prevention; 4) improving referral systems to the hospitals; 5) advocating for changes in national RH policies and protocols; and 6) providing technical assistance for monitoring and evaluation of key RH indicators. Together, these initiatives will improve the quality and accessibility of RH services in the DRC - services which are urgently n... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3110286 Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3110286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3091634&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F11 Conclusions: Although the political crisis affected malaria programs there were no outbreaks of malaria. Emergency responses were quickly organized and beneficial long term changes in treatment and diagnosis were facilitated. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3091634 Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3091634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3091635&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F10 This study supports work exploring the political, environmental, economic, and socio-cultural determinants of health of IDPs. Addressing these determinants is essential to fundamentally improving the overall physical and mental health of IDPs. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3091635 Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3091635 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2965978&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: This difference in reporting trends may partly explain the discrepancy in how well people are informed about U.S. and Iraqi civilian fatalities in Iraq. Furthermore, this calls into question the role of the media in reporting and sustaining armed conflict, and the extent to which newspaper and other media reports can be used as data to assess fatalities or trends in the time of war. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2965978 Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2965978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2780924&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F8 Survey estimates of mortality and malnutrition are commonly used to guide humanitarian decision-making. Currently, different methods of conducting field surveys are the subject of debate among epidemiologists. Beyond the technical arguments, decision makers may find it difficult to conceptualize what the estimates actually mean. For instance, what makes this particular situation an emergency? And how should the operational response be adapted accordingly. This brings into question not only the quality of the survey methodology, but also the difficulties epidemiologists face in interpreting results and selecting the most important information to guide operations. As a case study, we reviewed mortality and nutritional surveys conducted in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) publis... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2780924 Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2780924 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2454022&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com Conclusions: Mental health consequences of conflict remain long after the events are over, and therefore mental health intervention is as urgent for post-conflict migrant populations as physical health and other emergency interventions. A mental health outreach program was initiated based on this study. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2454022 Tue, 26 May 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2454022 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2319177&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F5 Background: Kenya experienced a political and humanitarian crisis following presidential elections on 27 December 2007. Over 1,200 people were killed and 300,000 displaced, with disproportionate violence in western Kenya. We sought to describe the immediate impact of this conflict on return to clinic and medication adherence for HIV-infected children cared for within the USAID-Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) in western Kenya. Methods: We conducted a mixed methods analysis that included a retrospective cohort analysis, as well as key informant interviews with pediatric healthcare providers. Eligible patients were HIV-infected children, less than 14 years of age, seen in the AMPATH HIV clinic system between 26 October 2007 and 25 December 2007. We extracted demographic... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2319177 Sat, 04 Apr 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2319177 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2319179&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F4 Background: Towards the end of 2006 open conflict broke out between United Nations forces and armed militia in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Fighting was most intense in the district of Cité Soleil. Methods: A cross-sectional, random-sample survey among the conflict-affected populations living in Cité Soleil and Martissant was carried out over a 4-week period in 2006 using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess exposure to violence and access to health care. Household heads from 945 households (corresponding to 4,763 people) in Cité Soleil and 1,800 household (9,539 people) in Martissant provided information on household members. The average recall period was 579 days for Cité Soleil and 601 days for Martissant. Results: In Cité Soleil 120 deaths (21 children) were reported (CMR 0.4 death... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2319179 Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2319179 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2293143&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F4 Background: Towards the end of 2006 open conflict broke out between United Nations forces and armed militia in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Fighting was most intense in the district of Cite Soleil. Methods: A cross-sectional, random-sample survey among the conflict-affected populations living in Cite Soleil and Martissant was carried out over a 4-week period in 2006 using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess exposure to violence and access to health care. Household heads from 945 households (corresponding to 4763 people) in Cite Soleil and 1,800 household (9,539 people) in Martissant provided information on household members. The average recall period was 579 days for Cite Soleil and 601 days for Martissant. Results: In Cite Soleil 120 deaths (21 children) were reported (CMR 0.4 deaths/10,0... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2293143 Tue, 24 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2293143 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2266804&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F3 Conclusions: We have documented that in the DRC conflict sexual violence has been - and continues to be - highly prevalent in a wide area in the East of the country. Humanitarian programming in this field is challenging due to the multiple needs of rape survivors. The easily accessible, integrated medical and psycho-social care that the programme offered apparently responded to the needs of many rape survivors in this area. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2266804 Sun, 15 Mar 2009 04:00:00 +0100 2266804 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2254765&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F2 We report on the presentations and discussions here. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2254765 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2254765 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2224016&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F2 We report on the presentations and discussions here. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2224016 Wed, 25 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2224016 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2151045&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F15 Kenya's post-election violence in early 2008 created considerable problems for health services, and in particular, those providing HIV care. It was feared that the disruptions in services would lead to widespread treatment interruption. MSF had been working in the Kibera slum for 10 years and was providing antiretroviral therapy to 1800 patients when the violence broke out. MSF responded to the crisis in a number of ways and managed to keep HIV services going. Treatment interruption was less than expected, and MSF profited from a number of "lessons learned" that could be applied to similar contexts where a stable situation suddenly deteriorates. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2151045 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:00:00 +0100 2151045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1880923&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: This refugee self-help model appeared largely effective and could be considered for reproductive health needs in similar settings. Having any formal education appeared a major determinant of FP knowledge for men, while this was less noticeable for women. Thus, FP communication strategies for refugees should consider gender-specific messages and channels. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1880923 Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1880923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873577&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F10 Conclusions: The civilian population in Kashmir is exposed to high levels of violence, as demonstrated by the high frequency of deliberate events as detention, hostage, and torture. The reported violence may result in substantial health, including mental health problems. Males reported significantly more confrontations with almost all violent events; this can be explained by higher participation in outdoor activities. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873577 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1873577 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873576&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F11 Conclusions: The ongoing conflict exacts a huge toll on the communities' mental well-being. We found high levels of psychological distress that impacts on daily life and places a burden on the health system. Ongoing feelings of personal vulnerability (not feeling safe) were associated with high levels of psychological distress. Community mental health programmes should be considered as a way reduce the pressure on the health system and improve socio-economic functioning of those suffering from mental health problems. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873576 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1873576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1841714&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F9 The accurate interpretation of mortality surveys in humanitarian crises is useful for both public health responses and security responses. Recent examples suggest that few medical personnel and researchers can accurately interpret the validity of a mortality survey in these settings. Using an example of a mortality survey from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), we demonstrate important methodological considerations that readers should keep in mind when reading a mortality survey to determine the validity of the study and the applicability of the findings to their settings. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1841714 Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1841714 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1665743&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F8 We report on a case of HIV transmission attributable to illicit drug market violence involving a participant in a prospective cohort study of injection drug users. Data from a qualitative interview was used in addition to questionnaire data and nursing records to document an episode of violence which likely resulted in this individual acquiring HIV infection. The case report demonstrates that the dangers of drug market violence go beyond the immediate physical trauma associated with violent altercations to include the possibility for infectious disease transmission. The case highlights the need to consider antiretroviral post-exposure prophylaxis in cases of drug market violence presenting to the emergency room, as well strategies to reduce violence associated with street-based drug market... Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1665743 Fri, 18 Jul 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1665743 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1565961&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F7 Conclusion: Our patients with diabetes mellitus declared that of the causes for poor glycemic control most of them related to the current health situation in Iraq. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1565961 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1565961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556836&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F7 Conclusion: Our patients with diabetes mellitus declared that of the causes for poor glycemic control most of them related to the current health situation in Iraq. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556836 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1556836 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556837&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F6 Conclusion: A combination of school and home based antismoking interventions may be effective in controlling adolescent smoking in Somaliland. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556837 Fri, 23 May 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1556837 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556838&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F2 (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556838 Fri, 14 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1556838 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556839&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F1 Conclusion: Our review indicates that, despite varying estimates, the mortality burden of the war and its sequelae on Iraq is large. The use of established epidemiological methods is rare. This review illustrates the pressing need to promote sound epidemiologic approaches to determining mortality estimates and to establish guidelines for policy-makers, the media and the public on how to interpret these estimates. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556839 Fri, 07 Mar 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1556839 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556840&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F1%2F1%2F14 Conclusion: Only about half of children under three years received full age-appropriate immunization. In children born during a period of increased hostilities, immunization was mostly inappropriate for age, but recommended immunizations were not completely abandoned. Missing or delayed immunization represents an additional threat to the health of children living in conflict areas. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556840 Sun, 09 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1556840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556841&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F1%2F1%2F13 Conclusion: We suggest that public health interventions aimed to curb adolescent cigarette smoking should be designed, implemented and evaluated with due recognition to the factors that are associated with the habit. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556841 Tue, 04 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1556841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1556842&cid=s_37202_46_f&fid=37202&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.conflictandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F1%2F1%2F12 Conclusion: Access to VCT, PMTCT and ART services was geographically limited due to inadequacy and heterogeneous dispersion of these services among districts and camps. GIS mapping can be effective in identifying service delivery gaps and presenting complex data into simplistic results hence can be recommended in need assessments in conflict settings. (Source: Conflict and Health) Conflict and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1556842 Mon, 03 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1556842