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 'Globalization and Health' source. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:32:30 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3261651&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F6%2F1%2F1 DiscussionDrawing on existing literature, the authors highlight the increased vulnerability of sex workers in the context of the HIV pandemic in southern Africa. They argue that laws that criminalise sex work not only compound sex workers' individual risk for HIV, but also compromise broader public health goals. International sporting events are thought to increase demand for paid sex and, particularly in countries with hyper-endemic HIV such as South Africa, likely to foster increased HIV transmission through unprotected sex.SummaryThe 2010 FIFA World Cup presents a strategic opportunity for South Africa to respond to the challenges that the sex industry poses in a strategic and rights-based manner. Public health goals and growing evidence on HIV prevention suggest that sex work is best a... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3261651 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3261651 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3043162&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F18 The burden of smoking-related diseases in Jordan is increasingly evident. During 2006, chronic, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) accounted for more than 50% of all deaths in Jordan. With this evidence in hand, we highlight the prevalence of smoking in Jordan among youth and adults and briefly review legislation that governs tobacco control in Jordan. The prevalence of smoking in Jordan remains unacceptably high with smoking and use of tobacco prevalences ranging from 15% to 30% among students aged 13-15 years and a current smoking prevalence near 50% among men. Opportunities exist to further reduce smoking among both youth and adults; however, combating tobacco use in Jordan will require partnerships and long-term commitments between both private and public institutions as well as within lo... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3043162 Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3043162 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3002568&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F16 Sub-Saharan Africa carries a massive dual burden of HIV and alcohol disease, and these pandemics are inextricably linked. Physiological and behavioural research indicates that alcohol independently affects decision-making concerning sex, and skills for negotiating condoms and their correct use. More than 20 studies in Africa have reported higher occurrence of HIV among people with problem drinking; a finding strongly consistent across studies and similar among women and men. Conflation of HIV and alcohol disease in these setting is not surprising given patterns of heavy-episodic drinking and that drinking contexts are often coterminous with opportunities for sexual encounters. HIV and alcohol also share common ground with sexual violence. Both perpetrators and victims of sexual violence ha... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3002568 Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100 3002568 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2942309&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F14 Conclusions: Despite the many reported reforms instituted by NAFDAC, the study findings suggest that facets of the pharmaceutical system in Nigeria remain fairly vulnerable to corruption. The most glaring deficiency seems to be the absence of conflict of interest guidelines which, if present and consistently administered, limit the promulgation of corrupt practices. Other major contributing factors are the inconsistency in documentation of procedures, lack of public availability of such documentation, and inadequacies in monitoring and evaluation. What is most critical from this study is the identification of areas that still remain permeable to corruption and, perhaps, where more appropriate checks and balances are needed from the Nigerian government and the international community. (Sour... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2942309 Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 +0100 2942309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2889260&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F13 Conclusions: Efforts to promote the human rights of those with mental illness must engage with the experiences of mental illness within communities affected in order to grasp how these may underpin the use of practices such as mechanical restraint. Interventions which operate at the local level with those living with mental illness within rural communities, as well as family members and healers, may have greater potential to effect change in the treatment of the mentally ill than legislation or investment in services alone. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2889260 Tue, 13 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2889260 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2864718&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: Suggesting that AIDS scholars can learn from these key parallels and divergences, the paper offers four directions for advancing AIDS research: (1) focusing more on the differentiation of risk and responsibility within and among AIDS epidemics; (2) taking (back) on board social justice approaches; (3) moving beyond polarized debates; and (4) shifting focus from reactive to forward-looking and proactive approaches. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2864718 Mon, 05 Oct 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2864718 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2841495&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F11 DiscussionMigration to and from mineral mines contributes to HIV risks and associated tuberculosis incidence. Health and safety conditions within mines also promote the risk of silicosis (a tuberculosis risk factor) and transmission of tuberculosis bacilli in close quarters. In the context of migration, current tuberculosis prevention and treatment strategies often fail to provide sufficient continuity of care to ensure appropriate tuberculosis detection and treatment. Reports from distant communities suggest that miners pose transmission risks to other household or community members as they travel home undetected or inadequately treated, particularly with drug-resistant forms of tuberculosis. Reducing risky exposures on the mines, enhancing the continuity of primary care services, and imp... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2841495 Mon, 28 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2841495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2818084&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F10 Conclusions: Using an African-centered cultural framework, the PEN3 model, we explore future directions and efforts to address the epidemic of CVD risk in SSA. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2818084 Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2818084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2792380&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: The impact of these co-morbidities in Sub Saharan Africa is likely to be large. An increasing prevalence of diabetes may hinder efforts at tuberculosis control, increasing the number of susceptible individuals in populations where tuberculosis is endemic, and making successful treatment harder. Roll out of anti-retroviral treatment coverage within Sub Saharan Africa is an essential response to the HIV epidemic however it is likely to lead to a growing number of individuals suffering adverse metabolic consequences. One of the impacts of globalization is to create environments that increase both diabetes and cardiovascular risk but further work is needed to elucidate other potential impacts. Research is also needed to develop effective approaches to reducing the frequency and he... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2792380 Sun, 13 Sep 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2792380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2724077&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F8 With improved accessibility to life-prolonging antiretroviral therapy, the treatment and care requirements of people living with HIV and AIDS resembles that of more established chronic diseases. As an increasing number of people living with HIV and AIDS in Kenya have access to ART, the primary caregivers of poor resource settings, often children, face the challenge of meeting the requirements of rigid ART adherence schedules and frequent relapses. This, and the long-term duty of care, has an impact on the primary caregiver's experience of this highly stigmatised illness - an impact that is often described in relation to psychological deprivation. Reflecting the meanings attached to caregiving by 48 children in Western Kenya, articulated in writing, through photography and drawing, individu... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2724077 Sat, 22 Aug 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2724077 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2656280&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F6 The Bamako Call for Action on Research for Health stresses the importance of inter-disciplinary, inter-ministerial and inter-sectoral working. This challenges much of our current research and postgraduate research training in health, which mostly seeks to produce narrowly focused content specialists. We now need to compliment this type of research and research training, by offering alternative pathways that seek to create expertise, not only in specific narrow content areas, but also in the process and context of research, as well as in the interaction of these different facets of knowledge. Such an approach, developing 'integrative expertise', could greatly facilitate better research utilisation, helping policy makers and practitioners work through more evidence-based practice and across ... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2656280 Wed, 29 Jul 2009 23:00:00 +0100 2656280 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2220330&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F4 Conclusions: The perceived impact of short-term medical volunteer projects in Guatemala is highly variable and dependent upon the individual project. In this exploratory study, project characteristics were identified that are consistently perceived to be either positive or negative. These findings have direct implications for anyone involved in the planning and execution of short-term medical volunteer projects, including local and foreign medical team members, project planners and coordinators, and health authorities. Most importantly, this preliminary study suggests avenues for future study and evaluation of the impact of short-term medical volunteer programs on local health care services. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2220330 Thu, 26 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2220330 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2189713&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F3 In December 2008, the US Commission on the Prevention of Weapons of Mass Destruction Proliferation and Terrorism, released a report, World At Risk. The Report points to the fact that, not only is the use of a weapon of mass destruction in a terrorist attack before the end of 2013 more likely than not, but also to the fact that terrorists are more likely to be able to obtain and use biological weapons than nuclear weapons. This paper examines the recommendations of the report in the context of the historic and geopolitical changes, in particular globalization. The authors highlight the "dual-use" dilemma, as described in the report, as the paradoxical use of technology developed for the benefit of mankind being used for sinister purposes. The mitigation of such a threat lies in broad stakeh... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2189713 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2189713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2146455&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F2 Conclusion: Given the high male smoking rates in South Korea, tobacco control efforts have given limited attention to girls and women. The limited data available on female smoking behaviour suggests that, despite legal restrictions and social stigma, smoking among females has increased since market opening, notably within younger age groups. In addition to more detailed trend data, there is an urgent need for the development and implementation of gender-sensitive tobacco control measures. Part of South Korea's accession to the FCTC should include emphasis on measures to address the strategic targeting of Korean females by TTCs. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2146455 Fri, 30 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2146455 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2114749&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F5%2F1%2F1 DiscussionSimilar to other developed nations, widening income disparities and health inequalities have resulted from economic globalization in New Zealand; with regard to nutrition, a proportion of the population now faces food poverty. Further, rates of overweight/obesity and chronic diseases have increased in recent decades, primarily affecting indigenous people and lower socio-economic groups. Economic globalization in New Zealand has changed the domestic milk supply with regard to the consumer and may shed light on the link between globalization, nutrition and health outcomes. This paper describes the economic changes in New Zealand, specifically in the dairy market and discusses how these changes have the potential to create inequalities and adverse health outcomes. The implications f... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2114749 Mon, 19 Jan 2009 05:00:00 +0100 2114749 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2012759&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F12 Before the onset of the current food crisis, the evidence of a severely neglected nutrition crisis was starting to receive attention. Increased food prices are having severe impacts on the nutritional status of populations. Our current food system has evolved over decades in a largely unplanned manner and without consideration for the complexity and implications of linkages between health, nutrition, agricultural, economic, trade and security issues. The underlying causes for the nutrition crisis include the above, as well as decades of neglect with regard to nutrition, and agricultural science (especially in emerging markets); a failure of governance with respect to the major players involved in nutrition, a weak response by government donors and Foundations to invest in basic nutrition (... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2012759 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 04:37:01 +0100 2012759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1966984&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F11 In a recent issue of Globalization and Health, Yu et al. examine the impact of HIV/AIDS programs on health care systems. This commentary considers their position and confirms that the former actually supports the latter aim; the two approaches are not at odds with one another, but could be viewed as complementary. A key requirement towards meeting both objectives is to ensure sustained international aid. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1966984 Tue, 18 Nov 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1966984 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1893547&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F10 Conclusions: From a public health point of view, the resource curse represents a fundamental failure of dominant development theories, rather than a delay in creating the proper economy and governance environment for social progress. The scope of research on the resource curse should be broadened to include more accurate or comprehensive indicators of destitution (including health components) and more open perspectives on causal mechanisms. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1893547 Tue, 21 Oct 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1893547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1808306&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F9 Conclusions: The investment needs in the health sector to address climate-sensitive health outcomes are large. Additional human and financial resources will be needed to prevent and control the projected increased burden of health outcomes due to climate change. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1808306 Fri, 19 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1808306 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1796699&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F8 This article examines and assesses the evidence and proposes ways forward.DiscussionConsiderably increased resources have been brought into countries for HIV/AIDS programs by major Global Health Initiatives. Among the positive impacts are the increased awareness of and priority given to public health by governments. In addition, services to people living with HIV/AIDS have rapidly expanded. In many countries infrastructure and laboratories have been strengthened, and in some, primary health care services have been improved. The effect of AIDS on the health work force has been lessened by the provision of antiretroviral treatment to HIV-infected health care workers, by training, and, to an extent, by task-shifting. However, there are reports of concerns, too--among them, a temporal associat... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1796699 Tue, 16 Sep 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1796699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1515396&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F7 Conclusion: Significant inequalities in the affordability of this essential preventive care product indicate the necessity for action to make it more affordable. Various measures to improve affordability based on experiences from essential pharmaceuticals are proposed. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1515396 Fri, 13 Jun 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1515396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1326704&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F6 DiscussionThis evolution might be critical for the future of AIDS treatment in low-income countries, yet it is proposed at a time when the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria is starved for resources. It might be unable to meet the needs of much broader and more expensive proposals. Furthermore, it might lose some of its exceptional features in the process: its aim for international sustainability, rather than in-country sustainability, and its capacity to circumvent spending restrictions imposed by the International Monetary Fund. SummaryThe authors believe that a transformation of the Global Fund to fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria into a Global Health Fund is feasible, but only if accompanied by a substantial increase of donor commitments to the Global Fund. The tran... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1326704 Tue, 25 Mar 2008 04:00:00 +0100 1326704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1260722&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F5 DiscussionCountries, charged with fulfilling the right to health and committed to expanding access to ART must explicitly recognize their obligation to combat unproven AIDS treatments and ensure the availability of a safe and efficacious drugs supply. International donors must help support and coordinate these efforts. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1260722 Wed, 27 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1260722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1257027&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F4 As China is undergoing dramatic development, it is also experiencing major societal changes, including an emerging obesity epidemic, with the prevalence of overweight and obesity doubling in the past decade. However, the implications of a high glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) traditional Chinese diet are adversely changing in modern times, as a high-glycemic diet is becoming a greater contributor to diabetes and cardiovascular risks in a population with rising obesity and decreasing physical activity. Specifically, a high GI diet adversely impacts metabolism and appetite control regulation, and notably confers substantially greater risk of weight gain, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers among overweight and obese individuals (P (Source: Globalization and... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1257027 Tue, 26 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1257027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1241012&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F3 Despite the fact that diabetes and other non-communicable diseases represent a significant proportion of the global burden of disease, proportionate global action has not occurred. A 2003 article reported on global constraints to the implementation of effective policies to curb non-communicable disease epidemics. These constraints include a lack of global advocacy, insufficient attention from funding agencies and governments, partnerships and interactions, capacity and resources, and global norms and standards, as well as orientation of health services to acute care. Building on these ideas, this paper will review the progress that has been made with regards to each constraint, focusing on the International Diabetes Federation's Unite for Diabetes campaign and United Nations resolution on ... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1241012 Tue, 19 Feb 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1241012 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1157554&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F2 Conclusions: The massive scale and scope of this industry effort illustrate how corporate interests, when threatened by the globalization of public health, sidestep competitive concerns to coordinate their activities. The global network of national and regional manufacturing associations created and nurtured by INFOTAB remains active, particularly in relation to the recently negotiated global health treaty, the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. Policymakers should be aware that although these associations claim to represent only national or regional interests, they are allied to and coordinated with a confederation of transnational tobacco companies seeking to protect profits by undermining public health. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1157554 Thu, 17 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1157554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1151570&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F4%2F1%2F1 Objective To assess whether a banking system crisis increases short-term population cardiovascular mortality rates. Design International, longitudinal multivariate regression analysis of cardiovascular disease mortality data from 1960 to 2002 Setting High and low income countries. Results A system-wide banking crisis increases population heart disease mortality rates by 6.4% (95% CI: 2.5% to 10.2%, p (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1151570 Tue, 15 Jan 2008 05:00:00 +0100 1151570 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1073942&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F12 Conclusions: CAMR is symbolically meaningful but in practice, limited. The Rwanda case will be noteworthy in terms of the future of the legislation. To meet its intended international health objectives, this legislation needs to be better informed of developing country needs and global pharmaceutical market imperatives. Finally, we contend that serious public policy change cannot strike a balance between all vested interests. Above all, any feasible policy that aims to facilitate compulsory licensing must prioritize public health over trade or economic interests. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1073942 Thu, 06 Dec 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1073942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1031964&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F11 Conclusions: The KHCC case underscores the utility of the transformational leadership model in an international health care context. To understand leadership in globalizing health care services, KHCC suggests culture is broader than organizational or societal culture to include an informal global network of medical professionals and Western technologies which facilitate global interaction. Additionally, political competencies among leaders may be particularly relevant in globalizing health care services where the goal is achieving international standards of care. Western communication technologies facilitate cross-border interaction, but social and political capital possessed by the leaders may be necessary for transactions across national borders to occur thus gaining access to specialize... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1031964 Fri, 16 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1031964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1014202&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F10 DiscussionUsing examples of HIV prevention trials in Thailand, hepatitis-E prevention trials in Nepal and malaria therapeutic trials in Burma (Myanmar), we address the inadequacies of ethical guidelines in conducting research within oppressed populations. We review existing legislature in the United States and United Kingdom that may be used if trial hardships exist. We conclude by making considerations for any research conducted within oppressed populations. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1014202 Thu, 08 Nov 2007 05:00:00 +0100 1014202 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=892542&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F9 The 'global public good' (GPG) concept has gained increasing attention, in health as well as development circles. However, it has suffered in finding currency as a general tool for global resource mobilisation, and is at risk of being attached to almost anything promoting development. This overstretches and devalues the validity and usefulness of the concept. This paper first defines GPGs and describes the policy challenge that they pose. Second, it identifies two key areas, health R&D and communicable disease control, in which the GPG concept is clearly relevant and considers the extent to which it has been applied. We point out that that, while there have been many new initiatives, it is not clear that additional resources from non-traditional sources have been forthcoming. Yet achieving... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=892542 Sat, 22 Sep 2007 04:00:00 +0100 892542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=725740&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F8 [Abstract]: Queerness is now global. Many emerging economies of the global South are experiencing queer mobilization and sexual identity politics raising fundamental questions of citizenship and human rights on the one hand; and discourses of nationalism, cultural identity, imperialism, tradition and family-values on the other. While some researchers argue that with economic globalization in the developing world, a Western, hegemonic notion of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) identity has been exported to traditional societies thereby destroying indigenous sexual cultures and diversities, other scholars do not consider globalization as a significant factor in global queer mobilization and sexual identity politics. This paper aims at exploring the debate around globalization an... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=725740 Wed, 11 Jul 2007 04:00:00 +0100 725740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=685490&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F5 Globalization is a key context for the study of social determinants of health (SDH). Broadly stated, SDH are the conditions in which people live and work, and that affect their opportunities to lead healthy lives. In this first article of a three-part series, we describe the origins of the series in work conducted for the Globalization Knowledge Network of the World Health Organization's Commission on Social Determinants of Health and in the Commission's specific concern with health equity. We explain our rationale for defining globalization with reference to the emergence of a global marketplace, and the economic and political choices that have facilitated that emergence. We identify a number of conceptual milestones in studying the relation between globalization and SDH over the period... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=685490 Tue, 19 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 685490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=685489&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F6 Globalization is a key context for the study of social determinants of health (SDH): broadly stated, SDH are the conditions in which people live and work, and that affect their opportunities to lead healthy lives. In the first article in this three part series, we described the origins of the series in work conducted for the Globalization Knowledge Network of the World Health Organizations Commission on Social Determinants of Health and in the Commissions specific concern with health equity. We identified and defended a definition of globalization that gives primacy to the drivers and effects of transnational economic integration, and addressed a number of important conceptual and methodological issues in studying globalizations effects on SDH and their distribution, emphasizing the need f... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=685489 Tue, 19 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 685489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=685488&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F7 This article is the third in a three-part review of research on globalization and the social determinants of health (SDH). In the first article of the series, we identified and defended an economically oriented definition of globalization and addressed a number of important conceptual and metholodogical issues. In the second article, we identified and described seven key clusters of pathways relevant to globalization's influence on SDH. This discussion provided the basis for the premise from which we begin this article: interventions to reduce health inequities by way of SDH are inextricably linked with social protection, economic management and development strategy. Reflecting this insight, and against the background of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), we focus on the asymmetric... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=685488 Tue, 19 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 685488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=665421&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F4 This issue of Globalization and Health presents a paper by Kerry and Lee that considers the TRIPS agreement and the recent policy debate regarding the protection of public health interest, particularly as they pertain to the Doha Declaration. In this editorial, we consider the debate, the conclusions thereof, and identify five questions that should be considered by key stakeholders in ongoing discussions. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=665421 Tue, 12 Jun 2007 04:00:00 +0100 665421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=634140&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F3 Conclusions: Despite being hailed as a "watershed in international trade", the Doha Declaration and Paragraph 6 decision have not resolved the problem of access to affordable medicines. The way forward must begin with a simplification of their content, to enable actual implementation. More fundamentally, once agreed, public health protections under TRIPS must be recognised as taking precedent over measures subsequently adopted under other trade agreements. This requires, above all, setting aside such protections as a basic need and shared goal from trade negotiations at all levels. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=634140 Thu, 24 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 634140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=627080&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F2 This paper assesses progress in the development of a global framework for responding to non-communicable diseases, as reflected in the policies and initiatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), World Bank and the UN: the institutions most capable of shaping a coherent global policy. Responding to the global burden of chronic disease requires a strategic assessment of the global processes that are likely to be most effective in generating commitment to policy change at country level, and in influencing industry behaviour. WHO has adopted a legal process with tobacco (the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control), but a non-legal, advocacy-based approach with diet and physical activity (the Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health). The paper assesses the merits of the ... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=627080 Tue, 22 May 2007 04:00:00 +0100 627080 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=395955&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F3%2F1%2F1 This article centers around a proposal outlining how research universities could leverage their intellectual property to help close the access gap for health innovations in poor countries. A recent deal between Emory University, Gilead Sciences, and Royalty Pharma is used as an example to illustrate how equitable access licensing could be put into practice.DiscussionWhile the crisis of access to medicines in poor countries has multiple determinants, intellectual property protection leading to high prices is well-established as one critical element of the access gap. Given the current international political climate, systemic, government-driven reform of intellectual property protection seems unlikely. Therefore, we propose that public sector institutions, universities chief among them, ado... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=395955 Thu, 01 Feb 2007 07:00:00 +0100 395955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=324127&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F12 DiscussionMany see this brain drain of medical staff as wrong with developed countries exploiting poorer ones. The effects are considerable with Malawi facing high vacancy rates in its public health system, and with migration threatening to outstrip training despite efforts to improve pay and conditions. This shortage of staff has made it more challenging for Malawi to deliver on its Essential Health Package and to absorb new international health funding. Yet, without any policy effort Malawi has been able to demonstrate its global competitiveness in the training (production) of skilled health professionals. Remittances from migration are a large and growing source of foreign exchange for poor countries and tend to go directly to households. Whilst the data for Malawi is limited, studies f... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=324127 Mon, 18 Dec 2006 07:00:00 +0100 324127 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=448267&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F12 DiscussionMany see this "brain drain" of medical staff as wrong with developed countries exploiting poorer ones. The effects are considerable with Malawi facing high vacancy rates in its public health system, and with migration threatening to outstrip training despite efforts to improve pay and conditions. This shortage of staff has made it more challenging for Malawi to deliver on its Essential Health Package and to absorb new international health funding.Yet, without any policy effort Malawi has been able to demonstrate its global competitiveness in the training ("production") of skilled health professionals. Remittances from migration are a large and growing source of foreign exchange for poor countries and tend to go directly to households. Whilst the data for Malawi is limited, studie... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=448267 Mon, 18 Dec 2006 05:00:00 +0100 448267 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14523&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F7 Antimicrobial resistance is a growing threat to public health the world over. Global health governance strategies need to address the erosion of antimicrobial effectiveness on three levels. Firstly, mechanisms to provide incentives for the pharmaceutical industry to develop antimicrobials for diseases threatening the developing world need to be sought out. Secondly, responsible use of antimicrobials by both clinicians and the animal food growing industry needs to be encouraged and managed globally. And lastly, in-country and international monitoring of changes in antimicrobial effectiveness needs to be stepped up in the context of a global health governance strategy. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14523 Tue, 25 Apr 2006 06:00:00 +0100 14523 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14524&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F6 Conclusions: Antimicrobial resistance is a serious and growing problem in all three countries. To date, there is not strong international convergence in the countries' resistance patterns. This finding may change with the greater international travel that will accompany globalization. Future research on the determinants of drug resistance patterns, and their international convergence or divergence, should be a priority. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14524 Fri, 07 Apr 2006 06:00:00 +0100 14524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14526&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F4 In a "nutrition transition", the consumption of foods high in fats and sweeteners is increasing throughout the developing world. The transition, implicated in the rapid rise of obesity and diet-related chronic diseases worldwide, is rooted in the processes of globalization. Globalization affects the nature of agri-food systems, thereby altering the quantity, type, cost and desirability of foods available for consumption. Understanding the links between globalization and the nutrition transition is therefore necessary to help policy makers develop policies, including food policies, for addressing the global burden of chronic disease. While the subject has been much discussed, tracing the specific pathways between globalization and dietary change remains a challenge.To help address this chal... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14526 Tue, 28 Mar 2006 07:00:00 +0100 14526 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14525&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F5 o Expert evaluations of the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness of pharmaceutical and medical devices, prior to marketing approval or reimbursement listing, collectively represent a globally important public good. The scientific processes involved play a major role in protecting the public from product risks such as unintended or adverse events, sub-standard production and unnecessary burdens on individual and governmental healthcare budgets. o Most States now have an increasing policy interest in this area, though institutional arrangements, particularly in the area of cost-effectiveness analysis of medical devices, are not uniformly advanced and are fragile in the face of opposing multinational industry pressure to recoup investment and maintain profit margins. o This paper examine... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14525 Tue, 28 Mar 2006 07:00:00 +0100 14525 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14527&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F3 Conclusion: The medical information gap between rich and poor countries as judged by publications in the NEJM appears to be larger than the gap in the funding for research. Under-representation of developing world health issues in the medical literature is a global phenomenon. International medical journals cannot rectify global inequities, but they have an important role in educating their constituencies about the global divide. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14527 Thu, 16 Mar 2006 07:00:00 +0100 14527 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14528&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F2 Unprecedented migration, a core dimension of contemporary globalization, challenges population health. In a world of increasing human mobility, many health outcomes are shaped by transnational interactions among care providers and care recipients who meet in settings where nationality/ethnic match is not an option. This review article explores the value of transnational competence (TC) education as preparation for ethnically and socially discordant clinical encounters. The relevance of TC's five core skill domains (analytic, emotional, creative, communicative, and functional) for migration health and the medical-school curriculum is elaborated. A pedagogical approach that prepares for the transnational health-care consultation is presented, with a focus on clinical-clerkship learning exper... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14528 Mon, 30 Jan 2006 07:00:00 +0100 14528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14529&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F2%2F1%2F1 DiscussionDonor and International Institutions' strategies to mitigate HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa are premised on a single optimal model of the State, one which focuses on the decentralised delivery of public goods alone (such as healthcare) – the service delivery state. The empirical evidence, though sparse, of "successful" and "unsuccessful" sub-Saharan Africa states' performance in mitigating HIV/AIDS does not support this model. Rather, the evidence suggests an alternative model that takes a country context specific approach – encompassing political power, institutional structures and the level of health technology needed. This model draws on the historical experience of East Asian countries' rapid development.SummaryFor international public health policies to be effective, the... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14529 Tue, 17 Jan 2006 07:00:00 +0100 14529 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14530&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F1%2F1%2F18 Conclusion: This comparison highlights the way risk perception may determine different policy responses to global forces causing mortality. Nevertheless, the large mortality differential between international terrorism and tobacco use has policy implications for informing the rational use of resources to prevent premature death. (Source: Globalization and Health) Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14530 Thu, 15 Dec 2005 07:00:00 +0100 14530 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=14531&cid=s_31013_46_f&fid=31013&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.globalizationandhealth.com%2Fcontent%2F1%2F1%2F17 There are acute disparities in pharmaceutical access between developing and industrialized countries. Developing countries make up approximately 80% of the world's population but only represent approximately 20% of global pharmaceutical consumption. Among the many barriers to drug access are the potential consequences of the Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement. Many developing countries have recently modified their patent laws to conform to the TRIPS standards, given the 2005 deadline for developing countries. Safeguards to protect public health have been incorporated into the TRIPS Agreement; however, in practice governments may be reluctant to exercise such rights given concern about the international trade and political ramifications. The Doha Declara... Globalization and Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=14531 Fri, 09 Dec 2005 07:00:00 +0100 14531