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 'Public Health' source. Thu, 09 Feb 2012 07:36:03 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671883&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350612000042%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Public health and ethics are so closely intertwined that many would contend that the public health department is rationally considered to be the conscience of the organisation. A function that has, at its heart, always to consider what is in the best interests of the population as a whole – not necessarily the interests of individual patients or members of the public, not care providers or carers, nor healthcare systems, but the population in its entirety – is bound by powerful ethical principles, with a strong utilitarian leaning. So it is no surprise that this month, we have some papers that reflect this fascinating relationship between ethics and public health. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671883 Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5671883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671893&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002861%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The mortality rates and life expectancies were consistent with other similar studies in the country and the Turkish VA method may be safely used to determine causes of death in countries with inadequate record and registry systems. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671893 Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5671893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671892&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003398%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The high prevalence of the metabolic syndrome is a serious public health problem in Hungary, and remains a major determinant of the high burden of cardiovascular disease. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671892 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5671892 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671888&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003519%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The choice of vaccination strategy is based on the national history of pertussis infection, the safety of available whole-cell vaccines and the willingness of health authorities to introduce acellular vaccines into routine use. The strategies adopted in the UK and the USA are two contrasting examples of immunization policies developed on the basis of different epidemiological backgrounds. They attest to the various associations between the type of pertussis vaccine and the type of universal vaccination strategies that can be undertaken for successful pertussis control. The introduction of a mandatory policy generally takes place during a period of low vaccination coverage, and is vindicated by the need for a rapid increase in immunization uptake. Countries that have already su... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671888 Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100 5671888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671890&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003490%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Applying the Drivers, Pressures, State, Exposure, Effects, Actions (DPSEEA) model to the public health problem of child obesity allowed a clear view of a number of multiple causal chains involved in a particular environment. That clarity may be a necessary condition for co-ordinated action to create change. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671890 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671884&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003404%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Not all non-attenders for screening appointments are negatively disposed towards health screening, and defining them all as ‘hard-to-reach’ does them a disservice. The majority appeared to need outreach staff to convert them into attenders, but the costs of this need to be balanced against the benefits realized. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671884 Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671885&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003349%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The Glasgow effect may not be all bad. The findings suggest that mental well-being is more prevalent in Glasgow compared with the rest of Scotland during adolescence. Further research is recommended to investigate the Glasgow effect during this life stage. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671885 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671885 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671896&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003155%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Although it was possible to validate some of the HIA predictions, the results of this monitoring review found substantial discrepancies between the predictions and reality 1 year after the transition of Kurume to a core city. This suggests that the accuracy of HIA predictions may be called into question. However, it should be noted that the review was conducted very soon after the transition and the steering group was very small, which may explain why the HIA predictions were inaccurate. Further, long-term studies may be needed to assess the accuracy of HIA predictions in similar contexts. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671896 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671894&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003337%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study found that more than two-thirds of medical students believe that health professionals are role models for patients, with different beliefs in Poland (89.6%) and Germany (77.7%) vs Italy and Spain (57.2% and 54.4%, respectively) (P  (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671894 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671889&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003325%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Further development of an ORT using additional data and enhanced statistical analysis may lead to a practical tool. However the practical, ethical and legal issues involved in its use, and the public health policy considerations that follow must be resolved. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671889 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671889 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671886&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003301%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To depict recent secular trend (2001–2005) in prevalence of depression among diabetic population in Taiwan, and to explore the influences of urbanization on the prevalence of depression.Study design: A descriptive correlation study design relating urbanization and prevalence of depression.Methods: Annual prevalence of depression was calculated as the ratio of number of individuals with depression (ICD-9-CM: 296, 309, or 311) to the size of diabetic population (ICD-9-CM: 250), which were ascertained from ambulatory care claim data of Taiwan’s National Health Insurance between 2001 and 2005. Multivariate Poisson regression analysis was used to assess the secular trend in the prevalence of comorbid depression, and to appraise the influence of urbanization on prevalenc... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671886 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530698&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003635%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes That a new year signals a time for reflection and change is a theme we have previously considered. Indeed, in whatever season you celebrate the New Year, most traditions and cultures see the New Year as a time to reflect on what has passed and make commitments for the future. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530698 Mon, 19 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671891&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003374%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study examined whether waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHpR) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) are predictive of metabolic syndrome and elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) among adolescents and young adults in mainland China.Study design: Cross-sectional study.Methods: In total, 6997 students aged 12–24 years from nine Chinese cities participated in this study. Anthropometric and biochemical data were collected. A logistic regression model was performed to determine the association between anthropometric indicators and metabolic syndrome components and abnormal liver function.Results: This study found prevalence rates for the metabolic syndrome and elevated ALT of 1.4% and 3.1%, respectively, among adolescents and young adults in mainland China. A multivariate... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671891 Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671891 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530707&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002629%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: PCT 1-year cancer survival estimates may be informative, but caveats relating to data quality and hence the validity of the estimates means that they require careful investigation before naïve use, as random variation, confounding due to age and bias due to DCO registrations may be significant. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530707 Thu, 08 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530707 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530710&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002800%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The increase in seasonal influenza VAE in late 2009 mainly involved non-serious events, and could reflect stimulated reporting in the context of the A(H1N1)pdm09 pandemic. VAE reporting rates were highest during influenza epidemic periods, which could be explained by VAE being wrongly attributed to the vaccine when symptoms could reflect coincident background cases of viral infection. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530710 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530704&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002630%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: To examine the incidence and risk factors of firework-related injuries during the Last Wednesday Eve Festival in Tehran, Iran, with a focus on the association of socio-economic status and educational level with the use of fireworks and the incidence of firework-related injury.Study design: Cross-sectional household survey.Methods: Using a random cluster sampling approach, a household survey was conducted in Greater Tehran in April 2008. During a structured interview with an adult member of the household, questions were asked about the use of fireworks and any firework-related injuries sustained by household members during the preceding festival. Data were gathered on expenditure on fireworks, medical treatment of firework-related injuries, length of hospital stay for th... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530704 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530704 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530703&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002824%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The risk of injury in Thailand varies considerably by location, sociodemographic group and several categories of co-existing morbidities. Such epidemiological information identifying risk factors for injury is useful for designing targeted injury prevention programmes in Thailand and other middle-income countries. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530703 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530699&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002678%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The study suggests that the wet–dry dichotomy is no longer relevant and that a revised version of a more recent dimensional approach featuring three dimensions – hedonism, function and control – may be better placed to describe and measure contemporary drinking cultures. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530699 Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671887&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003313%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Case-note databases are a potentially easy and effective way to analyse access to care and provider compliance with quality standards. Current deficits in routine data collection need to be addressed urgently in order to make this possible. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671887 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671887 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530711&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003507%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This new scoring system may be useful for public health institutions and federal civil and military officials responsible for bio-attack investigations. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530711 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530711 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530706&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002757%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes To date, establishing an effective way to communicate with the homeless population has been a difficult task. Research has shown that homeless people seek information in a variety of ways, but little research has been undertaken to establish the best way to contact this population. As far as the healthcare community is concerned, being able to contact the homeless directly is important for events such as vaccine recalls, public health issues, tainted food at a particular shelter or changes in government programmes. With no effective method for contacting homeless populations, the homeless have to seek information themselves and often rely on complex social networks that depend almost entirely on face-to-face contact. The aim of this study was to ascertain the predominant information-seekin... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530706 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530706 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530705&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002642%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Street-involved youth who frequently inject MA appear to be at increased risk of ED utilization. The integration of MA-specific addiction treatment services within emergency care settings for high-risk youth is recommended. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530705 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530705 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530702&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003386%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This rural sample showed a high incidence of hypertension. This underscores the need for primary prevention of hypertension through lifestyle modification strategies targeting individuals with high–normal blood pressure, central obesity and current smoking. The healthcare system needs to improve the level of awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in this population. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530702 Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530702 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481406&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003581%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In this final issue of Public Health for 2011, we are very pleased to be devoting the whole issue of the journal to the subject of legislative approaches to preventing and treating cancer and its consequences. The papers which we present to you are all based on material first presented at two conferences organised by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) which took place during 2010. The first, organised in conjunction with University of Sydney Law School was Legislate, Regulate, Litigate? Legal Perspectives on Cancer Prevention and Treatment and the second was a UICC sponsored session at the 2010 World Cancer Congress in Shenzhen in China. We will leave it to the Guest Editorial by Gostin, Liberman, Magnusson and Studdert to set the international context and explore the backgr... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481406 Thu, 01 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530709&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002733%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Papovaviruses have long been considered as examples of tumour-inducing agents, and human papilloma viruses (HPVs) are associated with benign self-limiting cutaneous and mucosal proliferation in their natural hosts. Cervical cancer is the leading gynaecological malignancy worldwide, and its incidence is very high in Indian women. Current biological and epidemiological data strongly relate certain HPV types to cervical oncogenesis, but their oncogenic potential and prevalence differ geographically and by ethnicity. Molecular epidemiological studies on cervical cancer from India show HPV positivity rates as high as 98% in women with invasive cancer, with HPV type 16 accounting for more than 90%. A meta-analysis of nine studies from India by Bhatla et al. revealed an overall HPV prevalence of... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530709 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530709 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530700&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002782%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study identified and reviewed grey literature relating to factors facilitating and inhibiting effective interventions in three areas: the promotion of mental health and well-being, the improvement of food and nutrition, and interventions seeking to increase engagement in physical activity. Study design: Sourcing, reviewing and analysis of relevant grey literature.Methods: Evidence was collected from a variety of non-traditional sources. Thirty-six pieces of documentary evidence across the three areas were selected for in-depth appraisal and review.Results: A variety of approaches, often short-term, were used both as interventions and outcome measures. Interventions tended to have common outcomes, enabling the identification of themes. These included improvements in participant well-be... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530700 Wed, 30 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5671895&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100285X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Three cohorts (n = 391) of final-year medical students in Hong Kong were evaluated on their preparedness to provide HIV care. Through a self-administered questionnaire, half (53%) were assessed to be better prepared and had a lower perceived risk of infection at work, though unwillingness to manage HIV patients was reported in a minority (4.6%). For a majority of medical students (72.8%), a specially-designed clinic attachment offered the only opportunity to come face-to-face with HIV patients for the first time. With continued improvement in treatment effectiveness, HIV/AIDS is evolving to become a new chronic disease in most societies. Curriculum development in HIV medicine remains a challenge in this HAART era. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5671895 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5671895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530712&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002836%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Quite often in Greece, a person who foretells phenomena that signify the advent of an ominous change is called Cassandra. In Greek mythology, Cassandra was the daughter of King Priam, the ruler of Troy during the Trojan War. According to a version of the myth, her extraordinary beauty attracted the Olympian deity Apollo who granted her the gift of prophecy. As Cassandra broke her promise to become Apollo’s consort, the ancient god, angry and disappointed, spat into her mouth and cursed the gift. Cassandra retained her ability to foresee the future but no one ever trusted her predictions. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530712 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530712 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530708&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002745%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Cancer continues to exact a significant toll worldwide, with the cancer burden expected to grow. Encouragingly, routine screening can detect many cancers at an early stage, when treatment is most likely to improve survival. For some cancers, precancerous abnormalities detected in screening can be promptly removed before becoming malignant, thus preventing disease. Despite the benefit of screening, the uptake of cancer screening tests is less than optimal. Proposed US Healthy People 2020 objectives include increasing the proportion of adults who participate in cervical, colon and breast cancer screening, and increasing the proportion of men who discuss prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530708 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530708 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530701&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002769%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The cultivation of perseverance and strengthening psychological coping is critical. Health professionals should design tailored services, avoid didactic intervention education programmes, and develop a ‘meaning-centred’ rather than a ‘message-centred’ philosophy of exercise. Such a campaign may help to improve self-management and promote health behaviours for people with type 2 diabetes. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530701 Mon, 28 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5530713&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002708%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes It is very easy for any health services researcher to become bound up in the almost self evident hegemony of the randomised controlled trial (RCT) as the gold standard of evidence in the modern era. How we scoff, despite the strictures of those who advocate “realistic” evaluation, at those in the not so distant past who placed their faith in the single case or uncontrolled case series! So a book like this – which has as its general ambition to demonstrate how the reality of clinical trials is a product of a social process and not just the execution of a rigid formula – is intriguing and welcome. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5530713 Thu, 24 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5530713 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481407&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100312X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes On 19 September 2011, the United Nations High Level Summit on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) adopted an historic declaration. The declaration calls for a multi-pronged campaign by governments, industry, and civil society to develop plans by 2013 to curb the risk factors for the four leading groups of NCDs: cardiovascular diseases; cancers; chronic respiratory diseases; and diabetes. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481407 Thu, 17 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481407 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481412&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003131%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: This paper presents a framework for identifying legal and regulatory interventions for the prevention of risk factors for cancer at the population level. The framework has wider application for behavioural risk factors for other non-communicable diseases. It is based on four different types of assessment: identifying the determinants of cancer and key settings for interventions; reviewing the key strategies that law can deploy; considering the most appropriate level for interventions within federal systems; and considering the role of law within a broader set of public health responses that includes voluntary standards, co-regulation, outcome-based regulation and more technical, prescriptive controls. The paper argues that law is an important tool for preventing the burden of dise... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481412 Wed, 16 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481417&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003118%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article proposes five desiderata for laws at the end of life. It uses the emerging Australian jurisprudence of end-of-life decision making to test and examine the desiderata. The article also proposes that poorly drafted and confusing laws may have a deleterious effect on patient care. These nomoigenic (law-caused) harms can be avoided by adherence to the five desiderata of death law. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481417 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481417 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481416&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001880%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: This paper discusses legislative interventions that have potential to address factors in the food environment that contribute to unhealthy eating patterns and increasing obesity rates in the Australian population, and political barriers to the implementation of these interventions. The paper devotes particular attention to legislative interventions to require disclosure of nutrition information about food and beverage products, which would help to inform consumer choices, and are, therefore, difficult to object to on personal responsibility or ‘nanny state’ grounds. It is suggested that these interventions seem to be gaining political acceptance in Australia, and may provide a starting point for incremental progress. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481416 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481416 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481410&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100309X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article examines two areas of international law that are relevant to cancer treatment: the international drug control system, which regulates opioid analgesics; and the World Trade Organization’s Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Agreement. This article outlines recent developments in relation to both, including in the activities of the Vienna-based agencies that collectively oversee the implementation of the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, and in the negotiation of the recent United Nations General Assembly Political Declaration on Non-communicable Diseases. While underlining the importance of law, this article notes that battles over law should not distract from the importance of other essential efforts to enhance access to medicines within the context of the str... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481410 Mon, 07 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100 5481410 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414951&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002538%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: In order to successfully engage Aboriginal people in health studies, researchers need to build rapport with communities, have a community presence, be respectful and collaborative, utilize incentives, and employ flexible and adaptive methodologies of reasonable length. Oral interviews are preferred to self-completed information. The use of more mixed methods methodologies was suggested when quantitative data collection is necessary. Communities expect presentations about research findings. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414951 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414951 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414950&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611003143%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes It is that time of year when the Northern hemisphere begins to chill and many of us consider what lies in store by way of the weather and its sequelae. Some we see every year and accept as some kind of norm; like increased emergency hospital admissions for exacerbations of chronic respiratory conditions or excess winter mortality. Then there are those that come with less or sometimes no warning; including epidemics of influenza and other seasonal infections, or severe weather conditions that cause pandemonium in sustaining health care business continuity. Though on this last point, maybe the UK is particularly affected by this due to a physical infrastructure unused to such extreme weather conditions and simply not fit for purpose. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414950 Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414950 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481414&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002794%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Research and public policy literature on alcohol-related harm predominantly focuses on the impact of alcohol policies over the short term. However, evidence on the effect of interventions on long-term, alcohol-related chronic disease, including cancers, is growing. The experience from tobacco control supports the use of interventions that increase the price of a commodity and restrict its availability in order to reduce consumption and realize long-term health gains. Meanwhile, the negative involvement of the alcohol industry in alcohol policy development is hampering efforts to intervene early and potentially save many lives. As the burden of alcohol-related cancers becomes more apparent, effective alcohol policies should be introduced sooner rather than later. This paper looks a... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481414 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481414 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481411&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002770%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Tobacco use is the single most preventable cause of death in the world today. Unchecked, tobacco-related deaths will increase to more than eight million per year by 2030. Galvanized by the seriousness of the threat, the Member States of the World Health Organization (WHO) negotiated the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), which entered into force in 2005. The treaty has enjoyed tremendous global success, with more than 170 Parties, and is often called the most powerful tool in the fight against tobacco-related morbidity and mortality. As the world undergoes the long-predicted transition from communicable to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) posing the greater health burden, seminal ideas, processes, and outcomes like the WHO FCTC can be used to inform decision-ma... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481411 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414960&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002599%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study investigated the level of acceptability of community-based health insurance (CBHI) among different population groups. The main focus of CBHI is capturing the majority of the population that depend on out-of-pocket spending for healthcare payment, which is a major hindrance to the use of health services. There has been rapid growth in CBHI among urban and rural self-employed informal sector workers. However, it is important that developed CBHI schemes are acceptable to all beneficiaries, irrespective of socio-economic status (SES) or geographical location. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414960 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414960 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414955&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002551%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: A sentinel surveillance system (SSS) was set up in Hong Kong to monitor hand, foot and mouth disease (HFMD) trends. This evaluation assessed the performance of the SSS from 2001 to 2009, and aimed to identify areas for improvement.Study design: A retrospective review using structured guidelines for evaluating public health surveillance systems published by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Methods: The effectiveness of the SSS was evaluated using routine service statistics, laboratory surveillance data, and results of an acceptability survey conducted among the sentinel doctors. This information was used to assess various attributes of the SSS including simplicity, flexibility, data quality, usefulness, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive valu... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414955 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414955 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414954&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002526%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Returning to school after the summer break is associated with a sharp increase in unscheduled medical contacts in school-aged children, particularly in those with asthma. This follows a decrease in the number of prescriptions for inhaled corticosteroids. It is suggested that at least part of the excess numbers of unscheduled contacts in children with asthma is because they do not maintain their inhaled corticosteroids over the summer holidays. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414954 Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414954 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481413&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001119%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The flexibility of legislation and regulation to meet a rapidly changing environment is key to ensuring the timely adoption of new cancer treatments to improve cancer outcomes. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481413 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481409&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002563%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This article demonstrates that WTO rules do limit Members’ flexibility in implementing public health measures to address these diseases. However, the focus of WTO provisions on preventing discrimination against or between imports and the exceptions incorporated in various WTO agreements leave sufficient scope for Members to design carefully directed measures to achieve genuine public health goals while minimizing negative effects on international trade. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481409 Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481409 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481408&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002848%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Cancer is a leading global cause of death and disability, responsible for approximately 7.6 million deaths each year. Around one-third of cancers are attributable to a small number of preventable risk factors – including smoking and the harmful consumption of alcohol – for which effective interventions exist at the population level. Despite this, progress in global cancer control has been slow and patchy, largely due to the weak and fragmented nature of both the global and national responses. This has been exacerbated by the economic crisis and the tendency for other challenges involving food, energy security and climate change to overshadow cancer on the global policy agenda. This paper reviews the global burden of cancer, and summarizes knowledge about effective intervention... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481408 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481408 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414962&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002666%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Is social injustice an institutional issue as so often described; or government oversight, or market failure, or just something broken within individuals or families leading to a life of lower attainment or achievement? The editors of this book, Brian S. Levy and Victor W. Sidell write:“We believe that the ultimate remedy for social injustice and its adverse effects on health lies in the development, adoption, and implementation of policies and programs that promote social justice and protect individuals and communities from social injustice…we believe that advocacy for these policies and programs is the most critical component of an agenda for social justice and public health” (p. 19). (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414962 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414962 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414959&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002691%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: These findings provide insight into the possible incentives for implementing mobility support for healthy older residents, and indicate the prospective mobility needs of driving retirees, including dementia sufferers. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414959 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414959 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414956&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100268X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: HAART was well accepted in this resource-poor region. Community education and supportive approaches may be critical for an effective preventive programme. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414956 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414953&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002605%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: To conclude, youths from lower socio-economic groups have already been identified as a target group, for intervention. These findings suggest that it is important for promotion programmes to focus not only on the enhancement of their physical activity, but also on their self-esteem as a possible mediator. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414953 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414953 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414952&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002587%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Inequalities in health behaviours underlie the ethnic TLE gap in Estonia, rather than inequalities in access to health care or the quality of health care. Public health interventions should prioritize primary prevention aimed at alcohol and substance use, and should be implemented in conjunction with wider social policy measures. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414952 Mon, 24 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414952 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414961&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002502%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This book is an extensive multi-authored compilation written by leading authorities in the field of tobacco research. This assemblage of 43 articles provides a broad overview of the science of tobacco-caused disease in its many aspects including historical and etiologic dimensions as well as the formulation and implementation of public health policies for the control of tobacco use. The current volume, which spans 738 pages and contains a detailed index, is an update of the first edition originally published in 2004. This compendium significantly updates the original work by incorporating the many new developments that have occurred during the past half-decade in the rapidly evolving field of tobacco science. The articles are written by outstanding experts in the field who bring an interna... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414961 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414961 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414958&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002575%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The Institute (GMCH) was well prepared for managing the swine Flu. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414958 Fri, 14 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414958 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5414957&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002617%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study explored HIV knowledge among a cohort of young drug users, and their perceptions of HIV risk acquisition.Methods: Between September 2005 and August 2009, youth who used illegal drugs were recruited into a prospective cohort known as the at-risk youth study (ARYS) in Vancouver, Canada. Participants completed an 18 item HIV Knowledge Questionnaire (HIV-KQ-18) and responses were scored dichotomously (i.e., ≥15 indicating high knowledge and (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5414957 Thu, 13 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5414957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353284&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002654%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: In spite of international differences in the treatment of incarcerated persons, as a group, they are vulnerable to poor health status and lack of access to quality health care. The health care of prisoners is affected by knowledge and commitment to ideas of human rights and social justice, as well as economic conditions. Prisoners are at increased risk of both acute and chronic diseases, and may constitute a threat to the health of other prisoners, their attendants or outside communities upon release. Mental illness and related problems of substance abuse are prevalent in prison populations, with many US prisons serving as modern asylums. Public health workers and organizations can stimulate and implement action to improve health in prisons. The World Federation of Public Health A... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353284 Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353284 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353298&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002368%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We are grateful for Gavine et al.’s comments on our paper discussing deprivation and mortality in Glasgow compared to Liverpool and Manchester. They make three main points to which we would like to respond very briefly: (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353298 Fri, 30 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353298 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353281&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100254X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Mention the year 2012 (CE) and many people will immediately think of the London Olympics and Paralympics. Indeed, as regular readers of these editorials will be aware, there are times when we could be accused of having something of a fixation with the Games of the 30th Summer Olympiad in London. However, on this occasion, that is not our theme. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353281 Mon, 26 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353281 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5481415&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001417%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The environments where people live, learn, work and play have a profound influence on health. Policies affecting physical activity, access to healthy foods, and the prevalence of tobacco products in our neighbourhoods can either promote or discourage behaviour associated with cancer and other chronic diseases. Given the regulatory landscape in the USA, where federal law controls venues with the widest possible scope (such as television and the Internet), states and cities have tremendous latitude in regulating the physical environments that residents experience every day. This paper explores innovative and meaningful ways to improve public health through policy initiatives targeted specifically at places such as homes and neighbourhoods, schools, shops, restaurants, bars and recre... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5481415 Wed, 14 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5481415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353293&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002150%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: This study determined the epidemiology of injuries and poisonings in emergency departments in Iran. The mortality rate in this study was low in comparison with other research, which may be explained in the context of inappropriate prehospital or interhospital care in Iran. This finding can be employed to formulate targeted preventive strategies based on the incidence of the more common types of injury. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353293 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353292&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002344%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The international community missed opportunities to raise HIV awareness and reduce transmission risk during the World Cup held in South Africa from 11 June–11 July 2010. With the tournament captivating the entire region, the public health community should have better applied our knowledge and evidence-based interventions to raise the profile of HIV prevention, care and treatment. More should have been done to prevent possible new infections fueled by visitors, alcohol and sports celebrations. Considering the impact of HIV in southern Africa and the amount of funds and effort that go into addressing the problem each year, we cannot afford to miss these opportunities for action. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353292 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353292 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353290&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002071%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: A critical requirement for the mental health promotion is to have information, increase mental health services, trained skilled workers, education and self-confidence to access available services. The key policy rapid actions needed. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353290 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353290 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353288&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002101%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Welfare advice in primary care has financial benefits and was perceived by participants to offer health and other benefits to patients and staff. However, while perceptions of gain from the intervention were evident, demonstration of measurable health improvement and well-being presents challenges. Further empirical work is needed in order to explore these complex cause-effect links and the cost-effectiveness of the intervention. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353288 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353287&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100206X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: In a country where population-based breast cancer screening works fairly well, cervical cancer screening is in its developmental stage and there is no screening for prostate cancer, the deciding role in referring people for preventive examinations for cervical and prostate cancer is still held by doctors. As such, they should pay particular attention to obese women, as this group has a worse prognosis for cervical cancer, and perform more prostate examinations for preventive purposes. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353287 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353286&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001508%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: Health inequalities between ethnic minorities and the general population are persistent. Addressing them is hampered by the inability to classify individuals’ ethnicity accurately. This is addressed by a new name-based ethnicity classification methodology called ‘Onomap’. This paper evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of Onomap in identifying population groups by ethnicity, and discusses applications to public health practice.Study design: Onomap was applied to three independent reference datasets (birth registration, pupil census and register of Polish health professionals) collected in Britain and Poland at individual level (n = 260,748).Methods: Results were compared with the reference database ethnicity ‘gold standard’. Outcome measures included sensitivi... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353286 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353285&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100148X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The complexity of the classifications and range of data on the dimensions of ethnicity have increased over the three decades. The breakdown of the ‘Black African’ group, the shortcomings of ‘Mixed’ categorization, and the way in which the ‘White’ category is subdivided require further investigation. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353285 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353283&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002514%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Abstract: In the past three decades China has been going through a period of rapid economic growth, which has had profound repercussions for the nation’s public health system. Prior to the current health reforms much of the population was left uninsured and facing high financial risk from inadequate healthcare, with especially deep divisions between the urban and rural populations, which continues to pose a huge challenge to health equity and social justice. This paper explores the relationship between economic development and public health and discusses a series of health disparity issues that are emerging in China. These include: (1) health risk and access to care issues among unregistered urban populations (i.e. migrants); (2) low recognition of mental health, and the stigma associate... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353283 Mon, 12 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353283 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353295&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002083%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The paper by Griffiths et al. raises important public health issues regarding the current risk of an H1N1 pandemic. The recent pandemic highlights travel as a key factor in the spread of infectious diseases around the world. Students today are a highly mobile demographic group, and this study addresses some important factors that may affect their compliance with health guidelines and regulations. We have identified areas within the methodology that we wish to discuss further. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353295 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353295 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353294&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002113%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The objective of this study was to evaluate incidence rate as well as age, sex and geographic distribution of sarcoidosis in South Croatia and to compare it with these epidemiological characteristics of tuberculosis.Study design: Retrospective.Methods: The study was including ten years follow up period (1997–2006), and was performed in Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia. All data were collected retrospectively and analyzed using Statistica 7 programme.Results: The mean annual incidence of sarcoidosis was 3.3/100,000 inhabitants with a mean of 15,6 cases per year. Woman accounted for 61% of all sarcoidosis cases. The mean sarcoidosis patient age was 44.94 ± 11.85 years. The peak age group was 40–49 years (31%). Significant difference according to incidence rate on the islands comparing t... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353294 Fri, 09 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353294 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353282&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002174%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes “Full many a flower is born to blush unseen, And waste its sweetness on the desert air.”Thomas Gray’s ‘Elegy written in a country churchyard’. Thomas Gray’s evocative words were often quoted by Anthony (Tony) Golding. For him they capture the sadness of the young and vulnerable whose lives are blighted by circumstance and his philosophy that they should be cherished and cared for to enable them to flourish. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353282 Wed, 07 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353282 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353296&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002137%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We thank Fazal and Eddy for their comments on our paper and offer some comments in response. Their first point of discussion infers that they, as medical students, might not fill in a questionnaire accurately and that we could have undertaken some qualitative research to ensure the accuracy of responses by the students. From this, we infer that their personal experience is that they do not always respond accurately or at all to questionnaires. We wonder whether this holds true for all medical students, as they write as a sample of two, and also whether this is true of all cultures. Chinese students tend to comply with our requests to complete questionnaires and we have high response rates, particularly when it is an important topic, as H1N1 was at the time of the study. The questionnaire ... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353296 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353296 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353291&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002125%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Encouraging the reformulation of foods, especially for products with the lowest nutritional quality in each category of processed foods, is a worthy target for health policy makers. The methodology presented in this paper provides information for negotiations between policy makers and firms to quantify commitments in terms of their potential impacts on individuals’ nutrient intake, and to check that the firms’ commitments are actually met. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353291 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353291 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353289&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002058%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Depression is prevalent in primary health care; studies have reported prevalence rates of 2–14% for major depressive disorders and 5–16% for subsyndromal depressive syndromes. Despite effective treatment methods, depression continues to be underdiagnosed and undertreated. The aim of this study was to investigate the outcome of depression in Finnish primary care. The main questions were: (1) What is the outcome of depression (clinical depression and subthreshold depression) at 6-month follow-up? and (2) Which factors are associated with not achieving remission?. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353289 Mon, 05 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5353297&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002095%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In the above paper it should be noted that an incorrect reference was included. The following reference on page 218 is incorrect: Haj Yahia MM. A patriarchal perspective of beliefs about wife beating among Palestinian men from the West Bank and the Gaza Strip (Israel). J Fam Issues 1998;19:595. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5353297 Fri, 02 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5353297 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201594&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001934%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: This study found very high levels of noise in music shops, which could be a source of occupational noise exposure among music dealers. Enlightenment campaigns on the hazards of exposure to loud noise and periodic audiometry examinations are recommended for this occupational group. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201594 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201594 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201591&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001910%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To understand the uptake and efficacy of ultrasound screening for neural tube defects (NTDs) during pregnancy, and the outcomes when NTDs were detected in rural areas of China.Study design: Prevalence study.Methods: Four hundred and twenty-four women who delivered or gestated babies/fetuses with NTDs were selected at random in 20 counties of two provinces of China from March 2008 to January 2009. The uptake of ultrasound screening, NTD detection rate and termination of pregnancy (TOP) rate were calculated and analyzed. Generalized estimating equations were employed to control for potential confounding factors.Results: The uptake of ultrasound screening was 98.8%. Among the study subjects, 361 (85.1%) NTDs were detected and 63 (14.9%) were not detected by prenatal ultra... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201591 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201591 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201580&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100237X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Effective public health is demonstrably concerned with the efforts of people who have knowledge and skills, from a very broad range of disciplines in all sectors, bringing their combined strengths to addressing contemporary challenges facing the health of a population. It should therefore be no surprise to see papers in Public Health from diverse specialist interest groups, since we pride ourselves in taking a broad and inclusive view of public health research and practice. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201580 Mon, 29 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201588&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001958%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Patients’ knowledge on smoking, diet and exercise is sufficient for the effective prevention of HT. The areas of insufficient knowledge for the development of HT and possible organ complications are drinking alcohol, stress, genetic factors and diabetes. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201588 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201588 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201585&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001703%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The European Public Health Law Network has been a successful and innovative site in the area of public health law. Interest in the site continues to grow. Future funding can contribute to a bigger site with interactive features and pages in a wider variety of languages to attract a wider global audience. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201585 Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201593&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001909%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The experience of non-consensual sex is associated with a number of chronic disease outcomes and risk factors. The development and implementation of effective sexual violence prevention strategies may reduce the risk of chronic conditions among persons who have experienced sexual victimisation. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201593 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201593 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201590&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001922%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The very low self-esteem of the women in the study may indicate that the intervention was not sufficiently robust to impact on mental health and lifestyle, although a longer follow-up may be needed to confirm this. Discrepancy in the evidence provided by formal and informal data suggests that project benefits may have been more evident if the evaluation had included a qualitative element to address the complexity of the client group and intervention. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201590 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201583&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001892%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Many SEAs in Scotland adopt a wide perspective on health, but most fail to identify differential impacts. Health involvement in scoping of health issues and better use of health evidence may enhance their quality. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201583 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201583 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201582&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001879%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: In selected Islamic countries, income level has a positive effect on population health, but the level of income distribution is not significant. Among the other dependent variables (e.g. different measures of income distribution, health care, role of women and environment), only environment and education had significant effects. Most of the Islamic countries studied are considered to be poorly developed. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201582 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201582 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201581&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001946%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These analyses contribute to the development of epidemiological methods for analysing mechanisms for the socio-economic gradient in health. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201581 Mon, 22 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136494&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001399%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes We examined whether dog-walking among dog-owners correlated with street pattern and proximity to a park area designated for off-leash use. Dog-walking was associated with street pattern and with nearby off-leash areas, but these associations varied by the measure of dog-walking examined (participation versus frequency in a usual week). Interventions to increase dog-walking should be undertaken and evaluated. Demographic factors, urban design, and whether owners already walk their dogs should be taken into account in planning. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136494 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136494 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136492&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100076X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The views and experiences shared by the stakeholders in this project can serve as lessons learnt to aid in the sustainability of other health promotion and injury prevention programmes in the future. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136492 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136492 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136489&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001697%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to assess perceptions of H1N1 immunization risk in pregnant women in ‘real time’. It highlights the important unmet needs for information that women need to be able to make informed vaccination choices, and the challenges of producing such information in a context of uncertainty. This is of particular relevance as many countries, including the UK, are actively reviewing their plans for vaccination programmes during pregnancy. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136489 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136488&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001727%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes A recent outbreak of pandemic (novel H1N1) 2009, previously known as ‘swine-origin influenza A’, infected 1056 people in South-East Asia, and resulted in approximately 12,220 deaths worldwide. The first confirmed case of novel H1N1 influenza was reported in Mexico on 23 April 2009, and the first confirmed case in India was reported on 16 May 2009. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136488 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136488 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136486&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001405%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Differences in health status between Russian ethnic minorities and the majority populations were found in Estonia and Kazakhstan, but were non-existent in Latvia and were the opposite of what was expected in Ukraine. Use of the Health Status Index in combination with multiple classification analysis proved to be a useful approach to examine health status differentials, and to identify and profile vulnerable groups in a society. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136486 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136485&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611002162%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes At first glance, the contents page of this August issue of Public Health reflects the usual attractive mix of papers covering topics in health protection, health promotion and health service quality and efficiency. However, this is not quite the case, as there is a theme linking several of the papers – and no, it is not just that four papers this month consider aspects of the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic! (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136485 Sun, 31 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136485 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136495&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000643%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Public health OER are available from a number of providers, frequently universities and government organizations. However, these reflect a relatively small pool of original OER providers. Tagging of websites does not always identify their public health content. In addition, users of public health OER may not use search engines to identify resources but locate them using other means. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136495 Thu, 28 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136495 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136490&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000850%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Free of charge and widely available vaccination programmes, and the belief that nurses are at risk of influenza due to the nature of their work improve vaccination uptake among nurses, and thereby reduce the risk of healthcare-associated infection in susceptible patient populations. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136490 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136490 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201587&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000874%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To investigate screening intentions and previous uptake of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening tests in a general population in Spain; and to determine knowledge about CRC, risk perceptions, major barriers to screening and perceived benefits of screening.Study design: Cross-sectional study.Methods: Six hundred consecutive Spanish individuals over 50 years of age completed a questionnaire to determine their screening intentions, previous CRC diagnostic procedures, and knowledge about screening procedures, risk factors for CRC, 5-year prognosis, warning signs and symptoms, incidence, age-related risk and perceived barriers to screening.Results: Although 78.8% of subjects reported that they were willing to participate in CRC screening, only 12% had ever undergone a screenin... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201587 Wed, 27 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136497&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001375%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Walsh et al. provided greater insight into the health outcomes experienced in Glasgow through comparison with the equally deprived cities of Liverpool and Manchester. A recent experience of one of the authors (DJW) has led us to further reflect upon these interesting findings. Following a myocardial infarction, a close friend, who maintained a healthy and active lifestyle, was told by a cardiologist in the south of England that there were two possible reasons for this event: his father had died of a myocardial infarction at 32 years of age, and he was originally from the Glasgow area. No further explanation was given. This anecdote perhaps suggests that the notion of the ‘Glasgow effect’ may be gaining currency in clinical practice as a cardiovascular risk factor. Such inappropriate ... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136497 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136497 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136493&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001715%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Moderate and higher levels of weekly alcohol consumption, moderate to heavy smoking, economic circumstances and marital status are the main risk factors for alcohol-related hospitalization in the Scottish population. These findings add to the evidence that population-based strategies are needed to limit alcohol-related morbidity. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136493 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136491&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100151X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Increasing rates of maternal obesity and the relationship between maternal obesity and childhood obesity mean that the preconception, pregnancy and postnatal periods are important and timely stages in the life course for public health intervention. However, current public health and community service provision lacks structured maternal obesity objectives. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136491 Tue, 26 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136491 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136498&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001351%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This book containing 33 chapters in 6 sections covers the burden of diabetes in the U.S. population, the epidemiology and risk factors for complications of diabetes, the prevention of diabetes and its complications, diabetes control programmes and policies in the U.S., diabetes in developing countries (with a focus on India) and emerging issues and science in diabetes. The majority of the 86 expert contributors are from the U.S. which explains the largely North American focus of the book. However a large proportion of the contents of the book will be of value to public health practitioners, policy makers and researchers in other countries. Diabetes is presented as a prototypical public health problem of current times and many of the approaches described in the book will be applicable to ot... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136498 Mon, 25 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136496&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000680%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: PHPs new to geographic information would benefit from enhanced interpretive support documentation to meet their needs when using Internet-based, interactive public health atlases, which are rarely provided at such sites. Technical, software-related support alone is insufficient. Increased interaction between PHPs and mapmakers would be beneficial to maximise the potential of the current growth in interactive, electronic atlases, and improve geographic information support for public health decision-making and informing the wider public. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136496 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136496 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201589&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001739%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Introduction of payment for the HPV vaccine may increase health inequalities significantly. For overall improvement in the quality of life, effective prevention and treatment services should be made available to all. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201589 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201589 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201586&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001387%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes The National Dementia Strategy in 2009 called for an increased coordinated research programme (Objective 16), while a collaborative report from the Royal College of Physicians, Royal College of Nursing and the British Geriatric Society called for more research in care homes. Currently in the UK, £11 is spent on research for each individual with dementia, compared with around £300 for each cancer patient. A European Charter has been launched recently to highlight the rights and importance of recruiting older people into research trials. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201586 Thu, 21 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201584&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000862%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Understanding how zoo and surveillance system characteristics are associated with participation in this surveillance effort may enhance public health efforts and the design of future zoological surveillance efforts. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201584 Wed, 20 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201584 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5201592&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001740%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Efforts to enhance informed choice where the implications of diagnosis are a requirement for lifestyle change may require that the immediate benefits are communicated, and efforts to address the apparent barriers to diabetes self-care are made, if the potential for inequity is to be avoided. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5201592 Mon, 18 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100 5201592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5136487&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001363%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The trends observed by MISS are compatible with French national estimations. The incidence of consultations which could be related to A(H1N1) influenza at the peak of the epidemic (194 cases per 100,000) was much lower than the national estimate (1321 cases per 100,000). This may be due to servicepersons who consulted in civilian facilities and were not monitored. Other explanations are the healthy worker effect and the younger age of the military population. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5136487 Sun, 17 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5136487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046089&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000837%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Over half (58.4%) of 77 recently diagnosed Chinese HIV infected men having sex with men (MSM) had networked sex partners through Internet in the year prior to their infections. Internet using MSM were younger (29.6y vs 38.7y; t = -4.77, P  (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046089 Tue, 05 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046089 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046093&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000849%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This study aimed to assess whether training medical staff in smoking cessation management might improve the rate of smoking cessation during hospitalization.Study design: Non-randomized intervention study.Methods: Staff of the participating care units either received (intervention group) or did not receive (control group) training in smoking cessation management. The dependent variable was the proportion of inpatients that continued to smoke before (Period 1) and after (Period 2) the training session.Results: In total, 358 patients were included. In Period 1, 55.6% and 50% of the smokers from the intervention and control groups stopped smoking, respectively; the corresponding rates in Period 2 were 64.3% and 48.1%. In Period 2, 36.4% and 31.8% of the smokers from the intervention and contr... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046093 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046093 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046086&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001442%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: A national programme of men’s health promotion interventions delivered in EPL football clubs was effective in reaching target audiences. Interventions were predominantly adopted by men not meeting health guidelines. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046086 Mon, 04 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046094&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000369%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: While genital warts are an inconvenience for many patients, the occurrence may be lower than often quoted in the literature, and the economic burden on society is less than for other prominent STIs. However, concerted efforts to establish improved data collection and surveillance systems are needed in order to accurately define the burden of genital warts on individuals and society. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046094 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046094 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046090&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000825%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: To investigate lifestyle health behaviours, such as smoking, physical activity, weight status and dietary habits, in a representative sample of the adult Greek population.Study design: Cross-sectional, household interviews (Hellas Health I survey, 2006).Methods: A stratified representative sample (n = 1005, 483 males, 522 females) of the Greek adult population (mean age 47.39 years, median age 46 years, range 18–99 years) was interviewed. Self-reported demographic and lifestyle behaviour data were obtained. The Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) was used to record dietary habits, and a Mediterranean score was derived from the FFQ to assess adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A higher Mediterranean score indicates greater adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Physi... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046090 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046090 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046088&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001466%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The recent publication of national men’s health policies in Ireland and Australia marks the first attempts by state governments anywhere in the world to target men as a specific population group for the strategic planning of health. The impetus for policy action in both countries can be traced to an increasing concern about sex differences in health status between men and women; a growing awareness of the need for a more gender-specific approach to health policy; and an expanding men’s health field at a research, advocacy and community/voluntary level. This paper will describe the background to men’s health policy development in Ireland and Australia; outline the aims, methodologies and key principles used for policy development; and highlight the principal priorities for po... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046088 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046087&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001454%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Although gender, racial and ethnic differences in health in the USA are well documented, it is less clear how race and gender intersect to produce large and consistently poor health outcomes for men of colour, particularly Black American men. This paper will illustrate how race and gender intersect at multiple levels to shape men’s health and health behaviours, and function as fundamental social determinants of health. The paper will conclude by discussing the need to attend to the role of male gender in pathways and processes underlying racial health disparities, and the challenges of developing health promotion interventions for Black American men. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046087 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046087 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046082&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001776%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This month’s predominant theme is men’s health. We make no apology for this. The fact that in many developed countries, including the UK, there are massive inequalities in health and life expectancy between men and women deserves to be taken seriously. So we are glad to have formed a fruitful collaboration with the researchers and practitioners who seek to understand and reverse the unhealthy trends, and to present some of their perspectives on these issues to reach a wider audience through this journal. The focus on men’s health allows public health advocates and activists to appreciate a sometimes neglected area of inequality and examine how best to address it, in all its complexity, at a local level, as well as at national policy level. For this is not a simple problem with a simp... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046082 Sun, 03 Jul 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046082 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046097&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001788%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Scotland is an historic centre for public health and epidemiology and a place that exemplifies global problems of health inequality, high incidence of chronic diseases, and the risk factors of smoking, physical inactivity, alcohol excess and obesity. Yet, Scotland is innovative and vigorous in tackling its problems. The World Congress of Epidemiology, established in 1957, returns to Edinburgh, the capital city, after 30 years. Academic departments at the Universities of Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow and NHS Health Scotland are ready to welcome an expected 1,200 colleagues to a feast of high quality scientific and epidemiological offerings. The Congress will be preceded by the IEA advanced course in epidemiology. The website (www.epidemiology2011.com) shows the internationally-re... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046097 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046097 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046091&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000357%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The positive association between low trust and low leisure-time physical activity remained after multiple adjustments. There is a concentration of men and women with low leisure-time physical activity who report the desire to increase their physical activity but think that they need support to do so. This group also has a significantly higher prevalence of low trust. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046091 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046085&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001430%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: This paper will argue that it should no longer be seen as acceptable to present data that is limited to just a population wide or age standardised sex analysis. Such blunt approaches miss the opportunity to develop our understanding of the pivotal role that sex and gender play in health, wellbeing and illness. Taking what we have referred to as a gendered epidemiological approach, would: (i) ensure the routine inclusion of sex differences, (ii) explore how sex differences can be analysed in conjunction with other factors influenced by gender (age, social class, education, marital status etc), (iii) highlight differences within each sex and not just between the sexes, and (iv) apply a gendered lens to the interpretation of the findings. This more nuanced stance is required to ensur... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046085 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046084&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001429%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The evaluation highlights the potential of delivering men’s health training to increase public health practitioners’ knowledge of men’s health inequalities, and to promote the development of gender-sensitive services. Future development could incorporate a ‘train the trainer’ element to maximize capacity building and enhance sustainability. Longer-term follow-up may be required to determine the continuing impact on public health practice. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046084 Thu, 30 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046095&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000783%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Klein’s experimental work was of significant value for the development of food preservation standards for hams, milk and, most importantly, oysters, mussels and other shellfish. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046095 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046095 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046092&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000242%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: A high proportion of adolescents had experimented with alcohol by 13 years of age, showing the importance of starting prevention at an early life stage. The results also reflect the importance of reviewing prevention programmes in schools, highlighting the importance of families. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046092 Sun, 26 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046092 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046083&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001478%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In the UK, men’s health really ‘came alive’ as an area of interest to public health practitioners when Kenneth Calman, the Chief Medical Officer, dedicated a chapter of his 1992 annual report to exploring the health needs of the male population. Following this report, a range of policy and practice activities in public health developed, and this has escalated significantly since the millennium. An All Party Parliamentary Group on Men’s Health was established in 2001, co-ordinated programmes of men’s health interventions have been set up in areas such as Bradford and Preston, and legislation under the single Equality Act 2010 provides a context for making public services equitable in their healthcare provision for all population groups. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046083 Sun, 12 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929897&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000345%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Black women entering prison are more likely to be educated, employed, drug free and, in some ways, healthier than White women. However, all the prisoners, regardless of ethnicity, had poorer levels of mental and physical health than the general population; thus, a need exists for researchers and policy makers alike to examine the health of these groups within and out of prison. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929897 Thu, 09 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929896&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000758%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Overall, strong associations were not found between intakes of different types of fat and fish and risk of stroke in middle-aged men. The inverse associations between unsaturated fat and oily fish intakes and risk of stroke were weak, but the direction of association was broadly consistent with other studies; however, these relatively weak associations were not conventionally statistically significant. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929896 Wed, 01 Jun 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929903&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001132%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes It is with trepidation in approaching reviewing such a small book, only 220 pages that intends to engage such a large subject, health promotion program evaluation. It comes to mind first, what has been left out? Then, of course, how will the book be used; as a textbook for a graduate course in program evaluation or as an informational book for the working public health professional or policy maker? Can such a small book do both tasks successfully? (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929903 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929903 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929893&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001491%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes For people who are well-versed in the science fiction genre, they are likely to be somewhat divided about which is the right adjective to use: “useless” or “futile”. A “friend” of one of us (we shall not say which for reasons that will become instantly plain) maintains that your selection of an appropriate adjective is really about whether you are a hitch-hiker or a trekker. If you are a hitch-hiker, by which s/he means you prefer the five volumes of the ill-named Hitch-hikers Guide to the Galaxy trilogy, then you will know “Resistance is useless” when meeting up with an angry Vogon fresh from a poetry recital. Equally, if your are a trekker - or a keen follower of the Star Trek: The Next Generation television series – then you will know that “Resistance is futile” if... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929893 Tue, 31 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929900&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000886%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The high density of faecal coliform bacteria and prevalence of multi drug resistant E. coli and Salmonella serotypes in the lake may pose severe public health risk through related water borne and food borne outbreaks. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929900 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929900 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929899&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000813%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: This socio-economic review provides an overview of the sanitation crisis in slum areas, and re-emphasizes the importance of sanitation. It highlights a lack of recognition of actual drivers for sanitation improvements, and the complexities in the provision of sanitation services in the context of urban slums with a mix of tenants and landlords. It elaborates how the drivers of demand for sanitation outlined in contemporary research are not universal but are rather context specific. The authors point out specific knowledge gaps for future research; for example, the need to establish a scientific basis for context-specific drivers of demand for sanitation improvements in slums, and a better understanding of associated complexities in order to set boundary conditions for achieving de... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929899 Thu, 26 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929902&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000771%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: The disease burden of influenza-like illness (ILI) in most tropical and subtropical countries has not been described adequately to date. The aim of this study was to determine the epidemiology and incidence of ILI, and to assess the economic burden in south China.Study design: Prospective study.Methods: A population-based household survey was conducted quarterly in 2007 in Guangdong Province.Results: The average number of subjects in each quarterly survey was 13,687. In total, 1002 cases of self-reported ILI were identified in all four surveys, indicating an annual incidence of 7.23 cases of ILI per 100 persons. The second quarter had the highest incidence of ILI (2.83 cases per 100 persons). Children aged 1–4 years, (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929902 Wed, 25 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5046096&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001156%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Why don’t healthcare workers clean their hands every time they should? Many would say we shouldn’t have to ask, but the plain fact is that optimal infection control is not really susceptible to the time-honoured approaches of education and exhortation. Improving infection prevention is a prime example of what we now call a ‘wicked problem’ – one where the physical, psychological and social aspects of individual clinical practice combine in a complex ‘human factors’ mosaic that is just not amenable to simple solutions. This book attempts to tease out the psychosocial factors at play which so very effectively undercut the good intentions of the policy makers, guidance writers and managers, with a text heavily interspersed with reflection exercises for the reader. (Source: Publi... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5046096 Tue, 24 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 5046096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929898&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000370%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: Conclusions regarding the effects of adherence-improving and multifaceted interventions are fairly certain. However, the findings about the impact of combined psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy on the outcomes of depression remain tentative due to the methodological limitations of available reviews. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929898 Tue, 24 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929901&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000746%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Large proportions of people living in the north, particularly those with pre-existing medical conditions, experience cardiovascular, respiratory or musculoskeletal symptoms in the cold. Since the symptoms may predict future morbidity and mortality, a strategy is needed to reduce the cold-related health risks of the entire population. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929901 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929901 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929895&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000576%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Regarding the estimated 10-year risk for CHD, about one-quarter of Tehranian adults are eligible for therapeutic approaches. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929895 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929895 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4929894&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000667%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The results showed that there is familial aggregation of TC, LDL-C and HDL-C, and point to the predominance of genetic factors because little influence of environmental variables was found. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4929894 Sun, 15 May 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4929894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909123&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100059X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objective: To perform a cost comparison of a weight gain restriction programme for obese pregnant women with standard antenatal care, and to identify if there were differences in healthcare costs within the intervention group related to degree of gestational weight gain or degree of obesity at programme entry.Study design: A comparison of mean healthcare costs for participants of an intervention study at antenatal care clinics with controls in south-east Sweden.Methods: In total, 155 women in an intervention group attempted to restrict their gestational weight gain to (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909123 Sat, 30 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909115&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000278%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: A large-scale national survey was conducted in 2008 across 61 cities throughout China, covering over 18,000 men who have sex with men (MSM). The prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was 4.9% and incidence ranged from 2.6 to 5.4 per 100 person-years. The prevalence of sexually transmitted diseases ranged from 2.0% to 29.9% among MSM in different parts of China. Syphilis status, recruitment of sexual partners mainly from gay saunas, duration of MSM experience, and unprotected sex with regular male sex partners and multiple male sex partners predicted HIV seroconversion. The prevalence of consistent condom use was low during anal sex, ranging from 29.4% to 37.3%. Within this context, this paper considers the factors surrounding HIV prevention activity, and identifies a nu... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909115 Sat, 30 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909115 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909112&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611001144%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This issue has an oriental feel to it, for which we make no apology. In the past few months, very different events in East Asia have made the public health community – and the rest of the world – cry with distress and smile (though sometimes wryly) with joy or at least, hope. We cannot help but refer to the horrendous ‘natural’ disaster comprising earthquake [magnitude 8.9] and tsunami that hit Japan on 11 March 2011. The human suffering and the potential longer term health and social consequences sadden any onlooker, however far away, in this era of instantaneous images transmitted across the globe. At the same time, seeing help come from other very recently afflicted nations, notably New Zealand [Christ-church earthquake, magnitude 6.3], and people working side by side for a comm... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909112 Sat, 30 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909112 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909124&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000692%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The associations between motherhood, migration and mortality among these rural South African women were complex and dynamic. Extremely rapid increases in mortality over the period studied are presumed to reflect the effects of the human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) epidemic. Understanding these complex interactions between various life events at population level is crucial for effective public health planning and service delivery. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909124 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909122&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000679%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Higher education reflects the changes in political policies of contemporary China. At the beginning of the 21st Century, the Chinese Government proposed an expansion of university enrolment to ensure greater output of specialized graduates to meet market-oriented and social needs. Moreover, as required by state law, local governments are implementing new ranking systems to grade college teachers based on their teaching and research performance, replacing the longstanding practice of seniority-based titles at universities, in order to guarantee treatment of professors and lecturers in accordance with their achievements. This may lead to physical and mental health problems among Chinese teachers, who are known to be one of the social groups under greatest stress. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909122 Thu, 28 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909121&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000059%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: The mortality rate for children under 5 years of age in China dropped remarkably from 1996 to 2006. This reduction was mainly due to a significant decrease in deaths due to pneumonia and diarrhoea. Based on the survey results, China should be able to achieve Millennium Development Goal 4. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909121 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909121 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909120&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000035%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: PTSD, anxiety and depression remained at an elevated level among survivors in hard-hit regions 1 year after the earthquake in Wenchuan. The groups at high risk of mental problems should be specifically attended. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909120 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909120 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909113&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350610003951%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Surveillance is an essential foundation for monitoring and evaluating any disease process, and is especially critical when new disease agents appear. The H1N1 influenza pandemic of 2009 tested the capacities of countries to detect, assess, notify and report events as required by the 2005 International Health Regulations (IHR). As detailed in the IHR, the World Health Organization drew on official reports from Member States as well as unofficial sources (e.g. media alerts) to quickly report and disseminate information about the appearance of the novel influenza virus. The pre-existing Global Influenza Surveillance Network for virological surveillance also provided crucial information for rapid development of a vaccine and for detection of changes in the virus. However, the pandemic... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909113 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909113 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909125&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000606%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: A high prevalence of sensitivity to aeroallergens is observed in the Punjab Province of Pakistan. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909125 Sun, 24 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4909119&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100031X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: Different levels of FC adoption were identified after the 1-year FC promotion intervention through outreach to sex establishments. The input, output and outcomes of the intervention may be associated with women’s demographic and risk characteristics, the local capacities of intervention staff, and other contextual factors. Further analysis of these factors will help establish the role of the FC in increasing protected sex, and provide insight into how to achieve greater FC use. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4909119 Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4909119 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740380&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000655%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Early 2011 represents the 30th anniversary of a groundbreaking publication on the effects of passive smoking and its relationship with lung cancer. In the modern age it is difficult to remember what things were like thirty years ago, at a time when tobacco use was very common and one could freely light up in restaurants, bars and workplaces – pretty much wherever they wanted. Non-smokers in the vicinity had no choice but to inhale second hand smoke. And there was a lot of it. Depending on the country and demographic, between one-third and one-half of all people used tobacco, including many in the health care professions. Nonetheless, the tide was about to turn as the evidence against passive smoking steadily mounted. Indeed, the possibility that tobacco might harm non-smokers had actuall... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740380 Wed, 06 Apr 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740380 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740394&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS003335061100062X%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes This book is a collection of chapters written by eminent teachers of epidemiology, each an expert in the aspect they discuss; indeed several of the authors have contributed to my education in epidemiology. It is divided into four parts; Context, exposure-oriented epidemiology, outcome-orientated epidemiology and pedagogies. Each chapter follows a similar format, with sections on suggested course objectives and content, a commentary by the author of how they do it, some suggestions for assessment, and an extensive reference list. It is NOT a textbook of epidemiology. It is intended that the chapters provide mentoring to those new to teaching the subject, but assumes the reader to be an experienced epidemiologist. To this end, most of the commentary is written in the first person, intending ... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740394 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740394 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740392&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000801%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes I welcome Prof. Bhopal’s useful contribution, informed by his work on the situation in northeast England. I agree completely that detailed epidemiology can often explain the proximal causes of ill-health and premature mortality, such as air pollution, heavy drinking and smoking. It does not explain, though, why Glasgow has developed a culture inimical to health and why it affects those at all points on the social scale, albeit affecting those lowest the most. Whether people live in South Bank, Middlesbrough – where my mother came from – or Guisborough, over the hill and away from polluting industry, did not, and still does not, come about by chance. To understand these wider issues we need to look to the social sciences (including economics, history and politics) to understand how so... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740392 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740392 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740391&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000795%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes March 2011 In Professor Bhopal’s response to our recent paper, he makes two, related points: first, that in making comparisons of Glasgow with Liverpool and Manchester, we are not comparing ‘like with like’; second, and more fundamentally, that the answer to the higher mortality in Glasgow is indeed ‘just deprivation’, but that we are not measuring it properly. He suggests that if the data could just be analysed in more detail (at a ‘sub-city’ scale), the excess mortality in Glasgow would disappear: it would be fully explained by Glasgow’s worse socio-economic conditions. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740391 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740391 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740390&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000722%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Gordon's commentary on Walsh et al.'s paper studying the so-called ‘Glasgow effect’ by comparing the city with Liverpool and Manchester, and similar studies on the Scottish effect, draws parallels with the comparison of premature mortality in Middlesbrough and Sunderland by Phillimore and Morris. Phillimore and Morris published papers indicating that the health of the people of Middlesbrough was much worse than that of the people of Sunderland, despite the fact that, socio-economically, they were very similar. Census data were used to compare the two cities. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740390 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740390 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740385&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000254%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: Objectives: There are few published evaluations of the effects of travel policy on health-enhancing physical activity. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a workplace travel plan, which mainly focused on restricting parking opportunities, on levels of active commuting and its potential to contribute to public health.Study design: Analysis of a repeated bi-annual travel survey in a workplace setting.Methods: Usual mode of commuting, gender, age, worksite location and distance commuted to and from work were obtained from the University of Bristol Staff Travel Surveys conducted in 1998 (n = 2292), 2001 (n = 2332), 2003 (n = 1950), 2005 (n = 2647) and 2007 (n = 2829). Z-tests were used to examine the significance of trends in active commuting between 1... Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740385 Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740385 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740384&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000333%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusion: These insights into recruiters’ perspectives should help trialists improve participation by ethnic minority populations. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740384 Tue, 29 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740395&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000266%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes In the above paper, it should have been noted that K. Lee and H.T. Lim contributed equally to this work as first authors. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740395 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740393&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350610003902%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Transport has a major influence on health: while the transport system enables people to reach jobs and services and gain valuable social contacts, it also has many negative consequences for public health. This book takes an extremely broad view of the ‘global transport problem’ and the impacts it has on health, the environment and society across the world. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740393 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740393 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740389&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350610003732%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Summary: The Health Protection Agency has recently attempted to create a postmortem tissue archive to determine the prevalence of abnormal prion protein. The success of this archive was prevented because the Health Protection Agency could not convince coroners to support the study’s methodology and participate on that basis. The findings of this paper detail and support the view that the Coroners’ Society of England and Wales’s refusal to participate was misguided and failed to appreciate that coroners have a moral obligation to protect public health. Measures to assist coroners in fulfilling this role are proposed. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740389 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740389 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4740388&cid=s_38639_46_f&fid=38639&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealthjrnl.com%2Farticle%2FPIIS0033350611000047%2Fabstract%3Frss%3Dyes Conclusions: The mixed methodology which involved analysis of health data and talking to a wide group of stakeholders, including prisoners, helped triangulate the data. The process of undertaking the health needs assessment shifted the focus from ’health care’ to ’health’. This has facilitated a significant reframing of the concepts of ’health’ and ’health need’ with ongoing work now focused on the prison as a whole system, not merely on the provision of health care within the prison. Many improvements have already been made in response to the assessment. (Source: Public Health) Public Health journals http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4740388 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 23:00:00 +0100 4740388