1.  Title: Comparative study of levofloxacin in the treatment of children with community-acquired pneumonia. Author: Bradley JS; Arguedas A; Blumer JL; Saez-Llorens X; Melkote R Source: Pediatric Infectious Disease Journal. 2007 Oct;26(10):868-878. Abstract: Levofloxacin has established efficacy and safety in the treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in adults, and its use as an alternative therapy for children with CAP has been proposed. Assess the clinical efficacy and safety of levofloxacin compared with standard of care antibiotic therapy in the treatment of CAP in children aged 6 months to 16 years. In an open-label, multicenter, noninferiority trial, children with CAP were randomized 3:1 to receive levofloxacin or comparator antimicrobial therapy (0.5 to < 5 years: amoxicillin/clavulanate or ceftriaxone; >/=5 years: clarithromycin or ceftriaxone with clarithromycin or erythromycin lactobinate) for 10 days. The primary outcome was cure rates at the test-of-cure visit (10-17 days after completing treatment) as determined by symptoms, physical examination, and chest radiography. Seven hundred and thirty-eight children were enrolled and 539 (405 levofloxacin-treated, 134 comparator-treated) were clinically evaluable at test-of-cure visit. Clinical cure rates were 94.3% (382 of 405) in levofloxacin-treated and 94.0% (126 of 134) in comparator-treated children. Cure rates were also similar for levofloxacin and comparator for each age group (< 5 years, 92.2% versus 90.8%; >/= 5 years, 96.5% versus 97.1%; respectively) and for children categorized as being at higher risk for severe disease. Mycoplasma pneumoniae was the most frequently identified cause of pneumonia (230 children). Levofloxacin was as well tolerated as comparators, with similar type and incidence of adverse events. Levofloxacin was as well tolerated and effective as standard-of-care antibiotics for the treatment of CAP in infants and children. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | INFANT | CHILDREN | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | PNEUMONIA | ANTIBIOTICS | TREATMENT | CONTRACEPTIVE USE-EFFECTIVENESS | SAFETY | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Studies | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Pulmonary Effects | Physiology | Biology | Drugs | Contraceptive Effectiveness | Contraception | Family Planning | Public Health Document Number: 321228 |
| 2. Title: Association of body mass index of HIV-1-infected pregnant women and infant birth weight, body mass index, length, and head circumference: The National Institute of Child Health and Human Development International Site Development Initiative Perinatal Study. Author: Cruz ML; Harris DR; Read JS; Mussi-Pinhata MM; Succi RC Source: Nutrition Research. 2007 Nov;27(11):685-691. Abstract: This study assessed the relationship between the body mass index (BMI) of HIV-1-infected women and their infants' perinatal outcomes. The study population was composed of women enrolled in the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development International Site Development Initiative Perinatal Study, with data allowing calculation of their BMI adjusted for length of gestation (adjBMI), who delivered singleton infants. Outcome variables included infant growth parameters at birth (weight, BMI, length, and head circumference) and gestational age. Among the 697 women from Argentina, the Bahamas, Brazil, and Mexico who were included in the analysis, adjBMI was classified as underweight for 109 (15.6%), as normal for 418 (60.0%), as overweight for 88 (12.6%), and as obese for 82 (11.8%). Median infant birth weight, BMI, length, and head circumference differed significantly according to maternal adjBMI (P Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | ANTHROPOMETRY | GESTATIONAL AGE | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | PREMATURE BIRTH | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Measurement | Fetus | Pregnancy | Reproduction | HIV | Pregnancy Outcomes Document Number: 322983 |
| 3. Title: Intergenerational relationships in cross-cultural perspective: Fertility, interaction and support. Author: Nauck B; Yi CC Source: Current Sociology. 2007 Jul;55(4):475-486. Abstract: This monograph issue comprises eight articles discussing various aspects of intergenerational relationships in Asian, European and American societies. The articles are organized along the developmental tasks of intergenerational relationships down through the family life cycle, starting with their creation ('fertility'), exploring various aspects of intergenerational 'interaction' and ending with 'support' for family members in later life stages. All the articles are based on empirical data, most are of large sample sizes or demographic register data, and quantitative methods have been employed to analyse intergenerational relationships from various perspectives. Geographically, this issue comprises studies from countries as culturally diverse as Japan and Taiwan from the Far East, Indonesia from Southeast Asia, Palestine and Turkey from the Near East, Germany from Central Europe and Mexico from Central America, together with data on the value of children to parents in South Korea, the People's Republic of China, India, South Africa, Ghana, Israel and the Czech Republic. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: ASIA | EUROPE | AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | KINSHIP NETWORKS | FAMILY LIFE CYCLE | FERTILITY | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | INTERGENERATIONAL TRANSFERS | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Sociocultural Factors | Family Research | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Family Characteristics Document Number: 318316 |
| 4. Title: Justiciability of economic, social, and cultural rights in the inter-American system of protection of human rights: Beyond traditional paradigms and notions. Author: Tinta MF Source: Human Rights Quarterly. 2007 May;29(2):431-459. Abstract: The separation of human rights into two distinct sets remains the underlying paradigm of most legal thinking produced on the subject of economic, social, and cultural rights. From this perspective international law appears as a static, rigid system of watertight legal compartments: even when acknowledging some interrelatedness, the compartments remain the rule nevertheless. This article is written from a perspective that takes a different view. Artificial separations are just that: artificial. Rights in real life are interwoven and each, in its own right, pose challenges to the legal mind, to provide a remedy. Justiciability is no longer a matter of perfectly dissecting and distinguishing the inseparable but of finding the key relations between apparently separate notions. Remedies can take "a myriad of forms." By looking into the practice of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights through the analysis of its case law, this article first provides a theoretical point of departure under general international law for understanding economic, social, and cultural rights as primary rules. It then analyses the current jurisprudence of the Court in its integrated approach to rights. It finally goes on to analyze the different manners in which this organ has been providing remedies for violations of these primary rules. From the implementation of interim measures in favor of HIV patients (right to health) to the development of doctrinal notions of the right to life including the right to a "dignified and decent existence" to its substantive approach to the interpretation of human rights under the American Convention, this article argues that the jurisprudence of the Inter-American Court of Human Rights-paradoxically coming from a poverty-stricken region-is contributing to a new era of effectively dealing with violations of economic, social, and cultural rights. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | CRITIQUE | LOW INCOME POPULATION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HUMAN RIGHTS | CULTURE | ECONOMIC FACTORS | JURISPRUDENCE | LITIGATION | COURT DECISION | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 317578 |
5.  Title: Gender, health and development in the Americas: basic indicators, 2005. Author: Pan American Health Organization [PAHO]. Gender, Ethnicity, and Health Unit; Pan American Health Organization [PAHO]. Area of Health Analysis and Information Systems Source: [Washington, D.C.], PAHO, [2006]. 23 p. Also available in Spanish. Abstract: Gender equality in health means that women and men enjoy the same opportunities to maintain their health, contribute to the development of public health, and benefit from that development. Empowerment is understood as the ability to make decisions and put them into practice. It is a both process and a goal, occurring at both the individual and group levels and requiring that women act as agents of change. Without women's empowerment, gender equality is not achievable. Following the guiding objectives of the first edition of this brochure (2003), the present edition includes a group of indicators that refer to conditions that exclusively or differentially affect women and men and are available in most countries. Also included are some internationally defined indicators for monitoring attainment of the MDGs, disaggregated by sex. Finally, graphs are presented for some indicators of priority gender and health issues for which information is available in only a limited number of countries. It is hopedthat the evidence of gender inequality presented in this publication will facilitate an understanding of such disparities, the identification of information gaps, the formulation of initiatives aimed at eliminating inequities, and the creation of conditions that guarantee all people the exercise of their right to health. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | SUMMARY REPORT | PAHO | GENDER ISSUES | HEALTH | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | INEQUALITIES | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | NEEDS ASSESSMENT | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | WHO | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Women's Status | Evaluation Document Number: 314634 |
| 6. Title: Collection of international instruments and other legal texts concerning refugees and others of concern to UNHCR. 3. Regional instruments: Africa, Middle East, Asia, Americas. Provisional release. Author: United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees [UNHCR] Source: Geneva, Switzerland, UNHCR, 2006 Nov. [385] p. Abstract: The first edition of the Collection of International Instruments Concerning Refugees was published in 1979. Thereafter, the compilation was updated regularly as new developments took place in the international law relating to refugees and other persons of concern to UNHCR. The 2006 edition takes account of the increasingly apparent inter-relationship and complimentarity between, on one hand, international refugee law and, on the other, human rights, humanitarian, criminal and other bodies of law. The Collection features over 240 instruments and legal texts drawn from across this broad spectrum. Compared to the earlier edition of the Collection, this edition includes many international instruments and legal texts relating to issues such as statelessness, the internally displaced and the asylum-migration debate (such as trafficking, smuggling, maritime and aviation law and migrants) as well as matters such as torture, discrimination, detention and the protection of women and children. The range of relevant regional instruments and legal texts have also been enhanced, not least to ensure that they are used more effectively while advocating for refugees and others of concern to UNHCR. Today, users can access veritable reference resources by electronic means. The Collection itself is accessible on-line. For users not able to access electronic facilities, it provides, in hard copy, the most important instruments in a manner easy to use in daily work. Indeed, even for those otherwise able to take advantage of electronic facilities, the availability of these instruments systematically in a single source offers unique facility and benefits. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | MIDDLE EAST | ASIA | AMERICAS | SUMMARY REPORT | REFUGEES | CHILD | WOMEN | DISABLED PERSONS AND DISABILITIES | INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS | MIGRANT WORKERS | LABOR FORCE | UN | HUMAN RIGHTS | VIOLENCE | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | SLAVES | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | LAWS AND STATUTES | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Settlement and Resettlement | Human Resources | Economic Factors | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Social Problems | Marriage | Nuptiality Document Number: 314640 |
| 7. Title: Malaria. Malaria kills up to 3 million people each year. Author: World Bank. Disease Control Priorities Project Source: [Washington, D.C.], World Bank, Disease Control Priorities Project, 2006 Apr. [2] p. Abstract: Malaria threatens close to one-half of the world's population, and more than 1 million children die each year of malaria-related complications. The disease is transmitted when mosquitoes carrying the malaria parasite bite and infect humans. If left untreated in pregnant women, malaria causes low birthweight, which can lead to a range of impairments including cerebral palsy, mental retardation, and cognitive deficits. In Sub-Saharan Africa, nearly 4 percent of all maternal deaths annually are the result of malaria-associated anemia. The battle against malaria, ranked the eighth-highest contributor to the global disease burden and second highest in Africa, is being fought using a combination of traditional low-cost methods and promising new drugs. Eliminating malaria from most endemic areas is an important global health priority. It also presents a significant challenge, in part because of the large numbers of people infected and inadequate infrastructure and resources in many countries. Efforts to reduce the burden of malaria involve early diagnosis and treatment; proper use of drugs, including new therapies called artemisinins; preventive therapy during pregnancy and infancy; use of insecticide-treated nets; and mosquito control. Studies have shown a significant negative association between malaria and economic growth. In terms of economic growth alone, malaria control is extremely cost beneficial. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | EUROPE | ASIA, SOUTHEASTERN | AMERICAS | GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | MALARIA | MORTALITY | DEATH RATE | MALARIA PREVENTION | TREATMENT | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Asia | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 311390 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Changes in bleeding patterns with depot medroxyprogesterone acetate subcutaneous injection 104 mg. Author: Arias RD; Jain JK; Brucker C; Ross D; Ray A Source: Contraception. 2006 Sep;74(3):234-238. Abstract: This study aims to assess changes in bleeding patterns with the use of depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) 104 mg/0.65 ml subcutaneous injection (DMPA-SC 104). An analysis was conducted using data from two 1-year, noncomparative clinical trials (N =1787) and a 2-year randomized study comparing DMPA-SC 104 (N=266) with DMPA intramuscular injection (DMPA-IM). Bleeding was analyzed per 30-day interval by category and number of days. Analyses also were performed for age and body mass index (BMI) subgroups and for the percentages of women shifting from bleeding/spotting to amenorrhea after each injection. Each study showed decreased incidence of irregular bleeding and increased amenorrhea with continued use of DMPA-SC 104. Rates of amenorrhea at Month 12 (52--64% across studies) and Month 24 (71% in the 2-year trial) were comparable with those originally reported for DMPA-IM. Changes in bleeding patterns showed no consistent differences according to age or BMI. The percentages of subjects shifting from bleeding and/or spotting to amenorrhea increased with each subsequent injection. Clinical data show that the incidence of amenorrhea increases over time with the use of DMPA-SC 104. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | EUROPE | ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | WOMEN | MEDROXYPROGESTERONE ACETATE | INJECTABLES | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | BLEEDING | CHANGES | AMENORRHEA | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Methods | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Signs and Symptoms | Diseases | Social Change | Sociocultural Factors | Menstruation Disorders Document Number: 304453 |
| 9. Title: Ophthalmic complications of dengue. Author: Chan DP; Teoh SC; Tan CS; Nah GK; Rajagopalan R Source: Emerging Infectious Diseases. 2006 Feb;12(2):285-289. Abstract: We report 13 cases of ophthalmic complications resulting from dengue infection in Singapore. We performed a retrospective analysis of a series of 13 patients with dengue fever who had visual impairment. Investigations included Humphrey automated visual field analyzer, Amsler charting, fundus fluorescein angiography, and optical coherence tomography. Twenty-two eyes of 13 patients were affected. The mean age of patients was 31.7 years. Visual acuity varied from 20/25 to counting fingers only. Twelve patients (92.3%) noted central vision impairment. Onset of visual impairment coincided with the nadir of serum thrombocytopenia. Ophthalmologic findings include macular edema and blot hemorrhages (10), cotton wool spots (1), retinal vasculitis (4), exudative retinal detachment (2), and anterior uveitis (1). All patients recovered visual acuity to 20/30 or better with residual central scotoma by 12 weeks. These new complications suggest a widening spectrum of ophthalmic complications in dengue infection. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ASIA, SOUTHEASTERN | INDIA | AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | DENGUE | FEVER | DEATH RATE | OPHTHALMOLOGICAL EFFECTS | Developing Countries | Asia | Asia, Southern | Developed Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Body Temperature | Physiology | Biology | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 296872 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Body fat and other metabolic effects of atazanavir and efavirenz, each administered in combination with zidovudine plus lamivudine, in antiretroviral-naive HIV-infected patients. Author: Jemsek JG; Arathoon E; Arlotti M; Perez C; Sosa N Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2006;42:273-280. Abstract: Protease inhibitor treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals has been linked to the development of lipodystrophy. The effects of atazanavir on body fat distribution and related metabolic parameters were examined in antiretroviral-naive patients. HIV-positive patients with CD4 cell counts = 100 cells/mm3 were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms: (1) atazanavir, 400 mg given once daily, plus efavirenz placebo; or (2) efavirenz, 600 mg given once daily, plus atazanavir placebo; each drug was administered with fixed-dose zidovudine (300 mg) and lamivudine (150 mg) given twice daily, and patients were treated for at least 48 weeks. Fat distribution measurements (visceral adipose tissue [VAT], subcutaneous adipose tissue [SAT], and total adipose tissue [TAT], as measured by computed tomography; and appendicular fat, truncal fat, and total fat levels, as measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), metabolic measurements (cholesterol and fasting triglyceride levels), and measurements of insulin resistance (fasting glucose and fasting insulin levels) were made at baseline and at week 48 of treatment for a subgroup of 111 atazanavir recipients and 100 efavirenz recipients. Atazanavir and efavirenz treatments resulted in minimal to modest increases in fat accumulation, as measured by VAT, SAT, TAT, appendicular fat, truncal fat, and total fat levels; results were comparable in both arms. In addition, atazanavir was associated with none of the metabolic abnormalities seen with many other protease inhibitors. Use of atazanavir for 48 weeks neither resulted in abnormal fat redistribution in antiretroviralnaive patients nor induced other metabolic disturbances commonly associated with HIV-related lipodystrophy. Longer-term assessments (e.g., at 96 weeks) will be important to confirm these findings. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | AMERICAS | EUROPE | ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DOUBLE-BLIND STUDIES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | CLIENTS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DRUGS | LIPID METABOLIC EFFECTS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | HIV | Treatment | Lipids | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 293375 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Marital coitus across the life course. Author: Brewis A; Meyer M Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2005;37:499-518. Abstract: It remains unclear whether the frequency of marital coitus does in fact decline universally across the life course, what shape that decay normally takes, and what best accounts for it: increasing marriage duration, women’s age or age of their partners. Using cross-sectional Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data of 91,744 non-abstaining women in their first marriage, a generalized linear model is used to determine if there is a consistent pattern in the life course pattern of degradation in the frequency of marital coitus. Datasets were drawn from nineteen countries in Asia, Africa and the Americas. Use of very large samples allows proper disentangling of the effects of women’s age, husband’s age and marital duration, and use of samples from multiple countries allows consideration of the influence of varied prevailing fertility regimes and fertility-related practices on life course trajectories. It is found that declining coital frequency over time seems a shared demographic feature of human populations, but whether marriage duration, wife’s age or husband’s age is most responsible for that decline varies by country. In many cases, coital frequency actually increases with women’s age into their thirties, once husband’s age and marriage duration are taken into account, but in most cases coital frequency declines with husband’s age and marital duration. (author's) Language: English Keywords: ASIA | AFRICA | AMERICAS | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | COUPLES | CURRENTLY MARRIED | MARITAL FERTILITY | COITAL FREQUENCY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Fertility | Sex Behavior | Behavior Document Number: 289686 |
| 12. Title: Roll Back Malaria issue first global report. Author: Brierley R Source: Lancet Infectious Diseases. 2005 Jun;5(6):332-333. Abstract: The much-delayed World malaria report was finally published on May 3, 2005. In addition to providing the most detailed information to date on the scale of the global malaria burden, the report—prepared by Roll Back Malaria (RBM), the WHO, and UNICEF—also gives the first real insight into the progress of the RBM project towards control, treatment, and prevention of the disease since it was set up in 1998. The malarial regions of the world are split into three groups by the report— Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Although Africa accounts for just about 60% of the global burden of malaria in terms of the number of cases, the report stresses the problems faced in Asia as an area of concern. Southeast Asia has the highest levels of drug resistance in the world. Multidrug resistance, particularly prevalent along international borders has caused a resurgence of malaria— eg, in Thailand and Burma, among others. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | AFRICA | ASIA | CRITIQUE | POPULATION AT RISK | MALARIA | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | BED NETS | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Parasite Control | Public Health | Health Document Number: 288197 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Attitudes toward male fertility control: results of a multinational survey on four continents. Author: Heinemann K; Saad F; Wiesemes M; White S; Heinemann L Source: Human Reproduction. 2005;20(2):549-556. Abstract: Following extensive research activity to develop an effective agent to control male fertility, such a product may be available for use within ~5 years. However, little is known concerning contraceptive knowledge, desires and attitudes of men in different countries, and their acceptance of male fertility control (MFC). A survey of >9000 males aged 18–50 years was performed in nine countries on four continents in 2002. The objective was to compare, on a cross-cultural basis, the knowledge, attitudes and acceptability of MFC among men and assess their willingness to use such a method. Between 50 and 83% of the male respondents currently use contraceptive methods, and 55–81.5% reported that both partners participate in selecting the method of contraception employed. Overall acceptance of hormonal MFC was high (>55%), with 28.5–71.4% of survey participants of various nationalities expressing the willingness to use such a method. While MFC appears to be well accepted overall, the willingness to use this type of contraception varies widely between differing population groups. The specific characteristics and profile of any MFC product will have to be carefully evaluated to accurately assess its acceptance, both by men and their female partners. (author's) Language: English Keywords: EUROPE | AMERICAS | ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | MEN | ATTITUDES | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | FERTILITY | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | CULTURE | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Health | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Contraception | Family Planning | Population Dynamics | Religion Document Number: 281327 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: On the origin of American tuberculosis. Author: Mackowiak PA; Blos VT; Aguilar M; Buikstra JE Source: Clinical Infectious Diseases. 2005 Aug 15;41:515-518. Abstract: After more than a century of debate, it is now firmly established that tuberculosis existed in the New World before the arrival of Columbus. What is not yet known is how or when, exactly, the infection reached the Americas, how it spread from one continent to the other, and whether the pre-Columbian infection was caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis or Mycobacterium bovis. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | TUBERCULOSIS | INFECTIONS | SKELETAL EFFECTS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | TIME FACTORS | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Public Health | Health | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 288691 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: From the Old World to the New World: an ecologic study of population susceptibility to HIV infection. Author: Pepin J Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2005 Jul;10(7):627-639. Abstract: It remains unclear why the global distribution of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), between and within continents, is so heterogeneous. This ecologic study of 34 populations of the Americas explored the hypothesis that populations differ in their intrinsic, biological susceptibility to HIV which, together with exposure, might determine the ultimate ‘mature’ prevalence. If true, national HIV prevalence in populations of the Americas should be predictable from each country’s ethnic mosaic, inter-racial admixture and HIV prevalence in regions of Africa, Europe and Asia from where their ancestors migrated. For each country, the adult population (15–49 years) was multiplied by the proportion corresponding to each ethnic group by HIV prevalence in the country/region of origin of each group, yielding the predicted prevalences, which were then compared with observed prevalences documented by UNAIDS for 2001. Predicted and observed HIV prevalences were highly correlated (r = 0.70, P < 0.001). In North America, predicted prevalences were within 0.5% of the observed values, except for African–Americans and African–Canadians. In Central and South America, differences between predicted and observed prevalences were < 1.0% except in Honduras and Guyana. Some Caribbean countries had a predicted prevalence identical to the observed one, but there were outliers. Overall, predicted prevalence was 0.93% and observed prevalence 0.64%; two-thirds of this difference was attributed to Brazil. Although it was not possible to adjust to the confounding effects of sexual behaviour and cofactors of transmission (such as sexually transmitted infections) because of the lack of nationally representative data for each and every country, a number of arguments reviewed in the paper suggest that confounders cannot explain all this association and that differential susceptibility might be an important determinant of steady-state HIV prevalence. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | ASIA | EUROPE | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | POPULATION AT RISK | HIV TRANSMISSION | MIGRATION | HEREDITY | POPULATION GENETICS | PREVALENCE | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Biology | Genetics | Measurement Document Number: 288965 |
| 16. Title: [The most recent advances in developing vaccines against malaria] Avances más recientes en el desarrollo de vacunas contra la malaria. Author: Rojas Rivero L; Sarracent Pérez J; Fonte Galindo L Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2005;17(2):142-146. Abstract: According to reports of the Pan American Health Organization, malaria transmission continues to occur in 21 countries of the Americas. Of the 835 million inhabitants of the Region of the Americas, 293 million live in areas with some possibility of transmission of the disease. The most advanced of the candidate vaccines that have been designed based on the sequences of the circumsporozoite protein, is one based on the RTS,S/AS02A polypeptides of Plasmodium falciparum. A test of that vaccine was conducted in Mozambique with children from 1 to 4 years old. The test proved the vaccine to be safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic, but the level of protection reached was still low. However, the advantages that the RTS,S/AS02A vaccine offers to people who live in malaria-endemic areas justifies its being tested in the Americas in order to evaluate its effectiveness in the clinical and epidemiological conditions specific to the Region. (author's) Language: Spanish Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | MALARIA | DEATH RATE | TRANSMISSION | VACCINES | MALARIA PREVENTION | TESTING | SAFETY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infections | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Measurement | Research Methodology | Public Health Document Number: 290881 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Disseminated histoplasmosis: a comparative study between patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and non-human immunodeficiency virus-infected individuals. Author: Tobón AM; Agudelo CA; Rosero DS; Ochoa JE; de Bedout C Source: American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2005 Sep;73(3):576-582. Abstract: We studied 52 patients with disseminated histoplasmosis, 30 with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) (cohort 1) and 22 not co-infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (cohort 2). Demographic, clinical, laboratory, mycologic findings, as well as antifungal therapy and highly active antiretroviral (HAART), were analyzed. Skin lesions were significantly higher in cohort 1 than in cohort 2 (P = 0.001). Anemia, leukopenia, and an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate were also more pronounced in cohort 1 than in cohort 2 (P < 0.001). Histoplasma capsulatum was isolated more often in cohort 1 than in cohort 2 (P < 0.05) patients, but antibodies to H. capsulatum were detected more frequently in cohort 2 than in cohort 1 (P < 0.05). Itraconazole treatment was less effective in cohort 1 than in cohort 2 (P = 0.012). In cohort 1 patients, HAART improved response to antifungals when compared with individuals not given HAART (P = 0.003), who exhibited higher mortality rates (P = 0.025). Cohort 1 patients who were given dual antifungal and anti-retroviral therapies responded as well as the non-HIV patients in cohort 2, who were treated only with itraconazole. These results indicate the need to promote restoration of the immune system in patients with AIDS and histoplasmosis. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | COMPARATIVE STUDIES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | VIRAL DISEASES | AIDS | NEEDS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Diseases | Economic Factors | HIV Document Number: 290676 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Can measles be eradicated globally? Author: de Quadros CA Source: Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2004 Feb;82(2):134-138. Abstract: Measles is one of the most infectious diseases. Before measles vaccine was introduced, nearly everyone contracted the disease at some point in childhood. By the late 1980s, most countries had incorporated measles vaccine into their routine immunization programmes. Globally, about 800 000 children nevertheless still die from measles annually, half of them in Africa. Eradicating measles would therefore play an important role in improving children’s survival. The 24th Pan American Sanitary Conference in 1994 established a goal of eradicating measles from the Americas. Progress to date has been remarkable and the disease is no longer endemic in the Americas, with most countries having documented interruption of transmission. As of November 2003, 12 months had elapsed since the last indigenous case was detected in Venezuela. This experience shows that measles transmission can be interrupted, and that this can be sustained over a long period of time. Global eradication is feasible if an appropriate strategy is implemented. Even under a new paradigm in which immunization is not discontinued after measles is eradicated, eradication will be a good investment to avoid expensive epidemics and save the lives of almost one million children annually. A world free of measles by 2015 is not a dream. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | AMERICAS | CRITIQUE | CHILD | MEASLES | IMMUNIZATION | VACCINES | CHILD MORTALITY | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | Developed Countries | North America | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics Document Number: 190491 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: Measles eradication in the Americas: progress to date. Author: de Quadros CA; Izurieta H; Venczel L; Carrasco P Source: Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2004 May 1;189(Suppl 1):S227-S235. Abstract: The region of the Americas has shown extraordinary progress in its fight to interrupt measles transmission. The Pan American Health Organization’s recommended strategy includes the following: a 1-time nationwide campaign targeting 1- to 14-year-old children; routine vaccination among 1-year-olds; and nationwide campaigns conducted every 4 years, targeting all 1- to 4-year-olds. Rapid house-to-house monitoring of vaccination and measles surveillance are other essential components of the strategy. During 2001, only 541 cases were confirmed in the region. In 2002, only Venezuela and Colombia had indigenous transmission. After important vaccination efforts in both countries, the last reported case occurred on 20 September 2002, in Venezuela. Since then, no confirmation exists of indigenous measles circulation anywhere else in the region. Nonetheless, important challenges remain, including insufficient coverage during routine and campaign vaccination and inadequate investigation of some cases. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | LITERATURE REVIEW | RECOMMENDATIONS | CHILD | PAHO | EPIDEMIOLOGY | MEASLES | VACCINATION | DISEASE TRANSMISSION CONTROL | BEST PRACTICES | COST EFFECTIVENESS | RISK FACTORS | PROGRAM ACCEPTABILITY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | WHO | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Public Health | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Prevention and Control | Programs | Organization and Administration | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Biology | Program Evaluation Document Number: 192092 |
| 20. Title: Trypanosoma cruzi: genetic structure of populations and relevance of genetic variability to the pathogenesis of Chagas disease. Author: Macedo AM; Machado CR; Oliveira RP; Pena SJ Source: Memórias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz. 2004 Feb;99(1):1-12. Abstract: Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, has a variable clinical course, ranging from symptomless infection to severe chronic disease with cardiovascular or gastrointestinal involvement or, occasionally, overwhelming acute episodes. The factors influencing this clinical variability have not been elucidated, but it is likely that the genetic variability of both the host and the parasite are of importance. In this work we review the genetic structure of T. cruzi populations and analyze the importance of genetic variation of the parasite in the pathogenesis of the disease under the light of the histotropic-clonal model. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | STUDIES | CLIENTS | CHAGAS DISEASE | POPULATION GENETICS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Genetics | Biology | Public Health | Health Document Number: 191796 |
| 21. Title: [Risk perception and strategies for mass communication on dengue in the Americas] Percepción del riesgo y estrategias de comunicación social sobre el dengue en las Américas. Author: San Martín JL; Prado M Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2004;15(2):135-139. Abstract: Dengue is clearly a very serious public health problem. In the Americas the number of dengue cases has been increasing since the 1960s, and outbreaks of the disease have been occurring more frequently. Furthermore, the density of infestation with the disease vector, the Aedes aegypti mosquito, is high in the Americas. The general strategy for preventing and controlling dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever is based on promoting behavior changes that lead to incorporating the community in controlling the disease, particularly the vector. In order to achieve this, mass communication programs on dengue should have two primary aims: converting information into practice and encouraging the community to take over prevention and control measures. The new generation of programs should be designed based on the local sanitation structure (water distribution and waste disposal) as well as information on community organizations and the roles of different family members. Furthermore, the new programs should incorporate all the following ten components: epidemiological surveillance, intersectoral actions, community participation, managing the environment and basic services, patient care, case reporting, education, using insecticides and vector control, training, and preparing for emergencies. Communication should be aimed at modifying the behavior of individuals and the community by empowering them to carry out prevention and control measures. (author's) Language: Spanish Keywords: AMERICAS | SUMMARY REPORT | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | HEALTH EDUCATION | PUBLIC HEALTH | DENGUE | FEVER | PARASITE CONTROL | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | COMMUNICATION STRATEGY | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Organization and Administration | Education | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Body Temperature | Physiology | Biology | Communication Document Number: 282810 |
| 22. Title: [New goal for vaccination programs in the Region of the Americas: to eliminate rubella and congenital rubella syndrome] Nueva meta de los programas de vacunación en la Región de las Américas: eliminar la rubéola y el síndrome de rubéola congénita. Source: Revista Panamericana de Salud Pública / Pan American Journal of Public Health. 2003;14(5):359-363. Abstract: During the debates of its 132nd session in June of 2003, the Executive Committee of the Pan-American Health Organization asked its member states to produce within a year's time national action plans aiming to eliminate the rubella and the congenital rubella syndrome from the American territory by the year 2010. During the last 25 years important goals have been met in the fight against infectious diseases that can be prevented through vaccination. There have been significant advances in the region of the Americas. Not only has the autochthonous transmission of many of these diseases been reduced, but also, among other achievements, there is a uniform coverage and quality of vaccination in all the towns of the region. Thanks to the good results of the vaccination programs in the region, immunization has become one of the pillars of the global program aiming at sustainable economic growth and the reduction of poverty. After reducing the impact of some diseases preventable by vaccination such as poliomyelitis and measles, the interest of the health care community in the region has turned toward fighting rubella and the congenital rubella syndrome. The discovery of the teratogenic effect of the rubella virus in 1942 by Australian ophthalmologist Norman Gregg attracted more attention to this disease than ever before. Every year tens of thousands of children are born with congenital anomalies because their mothers contract rubella during pregnancy. In many cases, the contraction of rubella during gestation produces spontaneous abortion o the need for therapeutic abortion. The congenital rubella syndrome is characterized by low weight at birth and severe anomalies such as deafness, blindness and cardiovascular malformations. (excerpt) Spanish Abstract: Durante los debates de su 132.a sesión en junio de 2003, el Comité Ejecutivo de la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS) solicitó a los Estados Miembros que elaboraran en el plazo de un año planes de acción nacionales orientados a eliminar la rubéola y el síndrome de rubéola congénita (SRC) del territorio americano para el año 2010. En los últimos 25 años se han alcanzado metas importantes en la lucha contra las enfermedades infecciosas prevenibles por vacunación. En la Región de las Américas ha habido adelantos muy notables. No solo se ha reducido la transmisión autóctona de muchas de estas enfermedades, sino que también se ha conseguido, entre otras cosas, que la cobertura y calidad de la vacunación sea uniforme en todos los municipios del territorio. Gracias a los buenos resultados de los programas de vacunación en la Región, la inmunización se ha convertido en uno de los pilares del programa mundial para lograr el crecimiento económico sostenible y la reducción de la pobreza. A medida que se ha reducido la incidencia de algunas enfermedades prevenibles por vacunación, tales como la poliomielitis y el sarampión, el interés de la comunidad sanitaria en la Región se ha volcado hacia combatir la rubéola y el SRC. El descubrimiento del efecto teratógeno del virus de la rubéola en 1942 por el oftalmólogo australiano Norman Gregg atrajo hacia esta enfermedad una atención que antes no suscitaba. Cada año nacen en el mundo decenas de miles de niños con anomalías congénitas debido a que sus madres contrajeron rubéola durante el embarazo. En muchos casos, la contracción de la rubéola durante la gestación lleva a un aborto espontáneo o a la necesidad de un aborto terapéutico. El SCR se caracteriza por bajo peso al nacer y por anomalías graves, tales como sordera, ceguera y malformaciones cardiovasculares. En ocasiones sobreviene la muerte prematura. (extracto) Language: Spanish Keywords: AMERICAS | RESEARCH REPORT | VACCINATION | RUBELLA | PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organization and Administration Document Number: 191631 |
| 23. Title: Protecting the health of the Americas. Source: Global HealthLink. 2003 Sep-Oct;(123):[3] p.. Abstract: Dr. Mirta Roses Periago was named director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in January of this year, becoming the first woman and the first Argentine to lead the 100-year-old organization. Her appointment culminated an 18-year career at PAHO and is a testament to her dedication to the health of the Americas. She recently sat down with Sr. Editor Tina Flores to share her views on collaboration among the countries of the Americas, partnerships between PAHO and NGOs, women as leaders, and information sharing. Q How has PAHO benefited the citizens of the Americas? A: I wouldn't say that PAHO has been responsible for, but certainly it has been a major contributor to, improving the health status of the people of the Americas. It has contributed to making them aware of the importance of working together. It is a very important step in public health, you know, to have all the countries understand the international dimensions of public health and, therefore, that they have something to share, that they have a common destiny, and that they can share resources, share experiences. It is very important because in health it is easier for people to understand the linkages - the interdependence. So, by focusing on issues of public health, PAHO has been able to move the countries to understand this common destiny and strength that they have. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | PAHO | COMMUNICABLE DISEASES | CHILD MORTALITY | GOALS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | CHRISTIANITY | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | WHO | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Infections | Diseases | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Planning | Organization and Administration | Communication | Religion Document Number: 195300 |
| 24. Title: Best practices for dengue control in the Americas. Author: Camp Dresser and McKee. Environmental Health Project Source: Arlington, Virginia, Camp Dresser and McKee, Environmental Health Project, 2003 Mar. [2] p. (EHP Brief No. 13) Abstract: The global distribution of Aedes aegypti, the mosquito vector for the dengue viruses, is found in nearly 100 tropical countries, and an estimated 2.5 billion people live in areas at risk for epidemic transmission. As the number of cases of dengue fever (DF) and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) continues to grow unabated in the region of the Americas, a renewed attention to integrated dengue prevention and control strategies is urgently needed. A record number of 968,723 cases of DF/DHF were reported in the region in 2002—with 17,386 confirmed cases of DHF and 234 confirmed DHF-related deaths. Due to increased urbanization and the widespread use of non-biodegradable items with a concurrent lack of adequate trash disposal and sanitary landfill systems, larval habitats are increasing in urban areas at an alarming rate. This is compounded by the high costs of running vertical programs. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | SUMMARY REPORT | DENGUE | BEST PRACTICES | URBANIZATION | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population Document Number: 280448 |
| 25. Title: Gender, health and development in the Americas, 2003. [Data sheet]. Author: Pan American Health Organization [PAHO]; Population Reference Bureau [PRB] Source: Washington, D.C., PAHO, 2003. [12] p. Abstract: Around the world, efforts to reduce poverty and enhance development have had greater success where women and men have relatively equal opportunities. In much of Latin America, however, women’s low social status, poor health, and subordination to men persist. Governments in the region increasingly acknowledge the need to promote gender equity in health and other aspects of development, but the data to monitor disparities between men and women—and progress in closing the gaps—have not been readily available. This data sheet profiles gender differences in health and development in 48 countries in the Americas, focusing on women’s reproductive health, access to key health services, and major causes of death. Its objective is to raise awareness of gender inequities in the region and to promote the use of sex-disaggregated health statistics for policies and programs. This effort is consistent with the United Nations’ Millennium Development Goals, adopted by 189 member countries at the UN Millennium Summit (2000), which focus on achieving measurable improvements in people’s lives, including greater gender equality. The data sheet also provides basic population and development indicators and information on other factors that influence health, including education, employment, political participation, and risk factors. Staff of the Pan American Health Organization and the Population Reference Bureau compiled this information using data from official national sources as well as data collected by specialized international agencies. (author's) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | TECHNICAL REPORT | TABLES AND CHARTS | WHO | GENDER ISSUES | HUMAN RIGHTS | RISK FACTORS | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | INCOME DISTRIBUTION | POPULATION STATISTICS | EDUCATION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Biology | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Income | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Research Methodology | Health | Socioeconomic Status Document Number: 184910 |
| 26. Title: The new wave of AIDS. Author: Andalo P Source: Perspectives in Health. 2003;8(1):8-13. Abstract: Fauci has been director of the prestigious institute for the past 18 years, and his office wall is a tapestry of academic titles and honors. As one of the leaders in the fight against AIDS, he has a vision that encompasses countries, regions and entire continents. With his hands on top of his head and a somewhat distant look, he describes in clear terms what he calls the "new wave of AIDS." Like a volcano in permanent eruption, the epidemic is spreading throughout the world, but mostly in five countries-China, India, Russia, Nigeria and Ethiopia-that are home to more than 2.5 billion people. "If you have country that has a billion people, like India or China, all you need is to increase the incidence by 1 percent and you've added 20 million people," says Fauci. I've been in India, China...my feeling was exactly what the [September 2002] report from the National Intelligence Council said, that it is an epidemic waiting to happen, waiting to explode." Fauci insists, in reaction to an interviewer's line of questioning, that he leaves personal emotion out of his professional work. Certainly his daily confrontation with the reality of AIDS could otherwise be overwhelming. Some 42 million of the world's people are living with HIV/AIDS, according to December 2002 estimates by the United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). The same year, there were 5 million new infections and 3.1 million deaths from the disease. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | CRITIQUE | RESEARCH ACTIVITIES | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | EPIDEMICS | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | HEALTH POLICY | POLITICAL FACTORS | CAMPAIGNS | VACCINES | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | Developed Countries | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Policy | Sociocultural Factors | Communication Programs | Communication | Behavior Change | Behavior Document Number: 177946 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Safe motherhood: the FIGO initiative. Author: Benagiano G; Thomas B Source: International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2003 Sep;82(3):263-274. Abstract: Over the last twenty years the international community—realizing that the tragedy of women dying during pregnancy and in childbirth could no longer be tolerated—launched a series of initiatives aimed at making safe motherhood a cornerstone of health services in all countries. Making pregnancy and delivery safe events is particularly complex, as it involves infrastructural and logistic, as well as technical, issues. Women die because they have no access to skilled personnel during pregnancy and at the time of delivery and because—if an emergency situation arises—they cannot reach a facility where emergency obstetric services are available. FIGO, the International Federation of Obstetrics and Gynecology—as the only global organization representing the Obstetricians of the world—decided some time ago that it could not limit its activities to proposing technical guidelines and debating scientific issues. It had to move into the field and, through its affiliated societies, help change the ability of the multitude of women in the developing world to obtain skilled attendance at birth. In 1997, plans were made to launch activities in five areas where maternal mortality was particularly high: Central America (Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and El Salvador), Ethiopia, Mozambique, Pakistan, and Uganda. Five member societies from the developed world (the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada, the Italian Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of the United Kingdom; and the Swedish Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology) agreed to provide support to their counterparts in these five selected areas. The project is now in its final stage. Results are, by and large, positive, demonstrating that, by motivating health professionals in the field and for a relatively modest financial outlay, more efficient use of existing services could be made in a sustainable fashion to save lives. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AMERICA, CENTRAL | AFRICA | ASIA | AMERICAS | EUROPE | DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | PROGRESS REPORT | ACTION RESEARCH | PREGNANT WOMEN | PHYSICIANS | MIDWIVES AND MIDWIFERY | SAFE MOTHERHOOD | CHILDBIRTH | MATERNAL MORTALITY | MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES | OBSTETRICAL SURGERY | EMERGENCY SERVICES | MATERNAL HEALTH | COMPLICATIONS | STATISTICS | South America | Latin America | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Surgery | Treatment | Diseases Document Number: 187524 |
| 28. Title: The demographic dividend. A new perspective on the economic consequences of population change. Author: Bloom DE; Canning D; Sevilla J Source: Santa Monica, California, RAND, Population Matters, 2003. xvii, 106 p. Abstract: This report reviews the debate over the effects of demographic change on economic growth and examines the research evidence on the economic impact of changes in age structure. It also examines the relationship between population change and economic development in particular regions of the world, including the Middle East and North Africa. Finally, it discusses how changes in the age structure interact with labor-market, health, and education policies to contribute to economic growth. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | AFRICA, NORTH | ASIA | JAPAN | AMERICAS | EUROPE | LATIN AMERICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | CASE STUDIES | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | POPULATION DYNAMICS | DEMOGRAPHIC IMPACT | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | ECONOMIC FACTORS | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | ECONOMIC POLICY | Developing Countries | Asia, Eastern | Developed Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Policy Document Number: 176138 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Progress toward measles eradication in the region of the Americas. Des progrès dans la lutte pour l'éradication de le rougeole dans la région des Amériques.Avances hacia la erradicación del sarampión en la región de las Américas. Author: de Quadros CA; Izurieta H; Carrasco P; Brana M; Tambini G Source: Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2003 May 15;187 Suppl 1:S102-S110. Abstract: Since 1994, when the goal of interrupting indigenous measles transmission was adopted, important progress has been made toward the control of measles in the Americas. Thirty-nine (95%) of 41 countries reporting to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) conducted catch-up vaccination campaigns during 1989–1995 and follow-up measles campaigns every 4 years. Routine (keep-up) vaccination coverage in the Region increased from 80% in 1994 to 94% in 2000. Measles vaccination coverage ranged between 75% and 99% in 2000 and between 53% and 99% in 2001. As a result, in 2001, the total number of confirmed measles cases reached a record low of 537, 99% lower than the number reported in 1990. In 2002, only Venezuela and Colombia had known indigenous transmission. As of January 2003, no known indigenous measles transmission had occurred in the Region since November 2002. This is due to high political commitment and implementation of PAHO’s recommendations, including strengthened supervision and monitoring to improve accountability at the local level. (author's) Spanish Abstract: Desde que se adoptó el objetivo de interrumpir la transmisión de sarampión autóctono en 1994, se ha avanzado significativamente en el control del sarampión en las Américas. Treinta y nueve de los 41 países asociados a la Organización Panamericana de la Salud (OPS) realizaron campañas de compensación de vacunación durante 1989-1995 y campañas de seguimiento de sarampión cada 4 años. La cobertura de vacunación de rutina (mantenimiento) en la región aumentó del 80% en 1994 al 94% en 2000. La cobertura de vacunación contra el sarampión osciló entre el 75% y el 99% en 2000 y entre el 53% y el 99% en 2001. Como resultado, en 2001, el número total de casos confirmados de sarampión alcanzó un mínimo de 537, 99% menos que el número informado en 1990. En el 2002, sólo se registró transmisión autóctona en Venezuela y Colombia. Desde noviembre de 2002 hasta enero de 2003 no se produjo transmisión de sarampión autóctono en la región. La eliminación se debe al gran compromiso político y a la aplicación de las recomendaciones de la OPS, incluido el fortalecimiento de la supervisión y el monitoreo para mejorar la responsabilidad en los ámbitos locales. (del autor) French Abstract: Depuis 1994, année de l'adoption de l'objectif d'interruption de la transmission locale de la rougeole, de grands progrès ont été réalisés en matière de contrôle de la rougeole au sein du continent américain. Trente-neuf (95%) des 41 pays de la Pan American Health Organization (PAHO ou Organisation Panaméricaine de la Santé) ont mené des campagnes de vaccination de rattrapage au cours de la période 1989-1995 et des campagnes de suivi tous les 4 ans. La couverture vaccinale régulière de la Région (maintien) est passée de 80% en 1994 à 94% en 2000. La couverture vaccinale pour la rougeole a été comprise entre 75% et 99% en 2000, et entre 53% et 99% en 2001. En conséquence de quoi, en 2001, le nombre total de cas confirmés de rougeole a atteint le niveau record de seulement 537 cas, à savoir un chiffre 99% inférieur au nombre de cas enregistrés en 1990. En 2002, seuls le Venezuela et la Colombie avaient des cas connus de transmission locale. En janvier 2003, il n'y a eu aucun cas connu de transmission locale de la rougeole dans la Région depuis novembre 2002. Cette situation est due à un fort engagement politique et à la mise en œuvre des recommandations de la PAHO, y compris le renforcement de la supervision et de surveillance en vue d'améliorer le sens des responsabilités au niveau local. (de l'auteur) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | ARGENTINA | BRAZIL | BOLIVIA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | ECUADOR | HAITI | VENEZUELA | COLOMBIA | SUMMARY REPORT | MEASLES | VACCINATION | PAHO | INTERVENTIONS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | South America, Southern | South America | Latin America | South America, Eastern | South America, Central | Caribbean | South America, Western | South America, Northern | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | WHO | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 179929 |
| 30. Title: A water pollution crisis in the Americas. Author: Galvão LE Source: Habitat Debate. 2003 Sep;9(3):[2] p.. Abstract: Cities in the world, especially ones located in less developed regions, such as Latin America and the Caribbean, face serious challenges in the management of water resources. Given the crucial need to supply water to the population, treatment of sewage is unavoidable. The issue becomes critical when fresh water is threatened by the very water source supplying the cities. If there is a high degree of pollution, then the costs of treatment rise to stratospheric levels. The same situation occurs with the removal and treatment of sewage. In São Paulo, 1.5 million people live near the Bilings and Guarapiranga reservoirs that account for the supply of 21 per cent of water to the metropolitan region of Brazil's biggest city. These important reservoirs are becoming more and more polluted. The cost of water treatment chemicals rocketed from from R$ 34.2 millions (US$ 11.7 million) in 1998 to R$ 60 million in 2002. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AMERICAS | SUMMARY REPORT | SLUMS | WATER QUALITY | NATURAL RESOURCES | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Urbanization | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Environment | Water Document Number: 292167 |
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