| 1. Peer Reviewed Title: Nepal 2006: results from the demographic and health survey. Source: Studies In Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):71-6. Abstract: The Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2006 (NDHS 2006) was conducted by the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative NDHS 2006 were collected from 8,707 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 10,793 women aged 15-49 and 4,397 men aged 15-59. The fieldwork took place from 5 February to 18 August 2006. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY RATE | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | INFANT MORTALITY | NUTRITION INDEXES | CHILD HEALTH | DISEASES | TREATMENT | KNOWLEDGE | HIV INFECTIONS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Nutrition | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases Document Number: 341336 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Swaziland 2006-07: results from the demographic and health survey. Source: Studies In Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):77-82. Abstract: The Swaziland Demographic and Health Survey 2006-07 (SDHS 2006-07) was conducted by the Central Statistical Office of Swaziland with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative SDHS 2006-07 were collected from 4,843 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 4,987 women aged 15-49 and 4,156 men aged 15-49. The fieldwork took place from July 2006 to March 2007. Language: English Keywords: SWAZILAND | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY RATE | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | INFANT MORTALITY | NUTRITION INDEXES | CHILD HEALTH | DISEASES | TREATMENT | KNOWLEDGE | HIV INFECTIONS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Nutrition | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases Document Number: 341335 |
3.  Title: [Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study] operations manual. Final draft. Author: Harvard University; University of Washington. Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation; Johns Hopkins University; University of Queensland; World Health Organization [WHO] Source: [Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University, 2009 Jan 20 142 p. Abstract: The final draft of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries and Risk Factors Study Operations Manual is intended to serve as a guide for the Expert Groups working on the GBD Study. There are opportunities to provide input and feedback, and instructions to do so are included in the operations manual. The new Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (the GBD 2005 Study), which commenced in the spring of 2007, is led by a consortium including Harvard University, the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington, Johns Hopkins University, the University of Queensland, and the World Health Organization WHO). It is the first major effort since the GBD 1990 Study to carry out a complete systematic assessment of the data on all diseases and injuries, and produce comprehensive and comparable estimates of the burden of diseases, injuries and risk factors for two time periods, 1990 and 2005. By November 2010 the project will produce a final set of estimates. (Excerpts) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | MANUAL | DATA ANALYSIS | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | DISABLED PERSONS AND DISABILITIES | DISEASES | ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES | MORTALITY | RISK FACTORS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INCIDENCE | PREVALENCE | RISK ASSESSMENT | BIAS | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Population Dynamics | Public Health | Measurement | Evaluation | Error Sources Document Number: 331797 |
4.  Peer Reviewed Title: Hormonal contraception, sickle cell trait, and risk for venous thromboembolism among African American women. Author: Austin H; Lally C; Benson JM; Whitsett C; Hooper WC; Key NS Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2009 Jun;200:620e1-620e3. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the effect of oral and other hormonal contraceptive (HC) use on venous thromboembolism risk among African American women and investigated whether the association was modified by the sickle cell trait. STUDY DESIGN: We report the findings of a case-control study that included 60 African American women with an idiopathic, first episode of venous thromboembolism and 196 African American controls. RESULTS: The odds of current HC use compared with noncurrent use contrasting cases and controls is 3.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-8.1; P < .001). Among subjects with sickle cell trait, the odds ratio is higher (odds ratio [OR], 6.7; 95% CI, 1.0-43) than the odds ratio among subjects without sickle cell trait (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.1-6.2), but the difference is not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: This study provides persuasive evidence that hormonal contraceptive use increases venous thromboembolism risk among African American women and that the increase in risk may be larger among women with sickle cell trait. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | BLACKS | WOMEN | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS | THROMBOEMBOLISM | DISEASES | RISK FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Studies | Research Methodology | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning | Embolism | Vascular Diseases | Health Document Number: 330853 |
| 5. Title: On what diseases and health conditions should new economic research on health and development focus? Author: Behrman JR; Behrman JA; Perez NM Source: Health Economics. 2009 Apr;18 Suppl 1:S109-28. Abstract: Given the public goods nature of research, economic research on health in developing countries is likely to have the highest returns by focusing, inter alia, on diseases and health conditions that are relatively widespread and costly and that are relatively rapidly growing. This article first summarizes the time patterns in economic research on diseases and health in developing countries for 1990-2005. It then compares those time patterns with the distribution of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) for diseases and health conditions in developing countries estimated for 2005 and for 2030. These comparisons suggest relatively overemphasis on HIV/AIDS and underemphasis on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). This opens the possibility for individuals or organizations initiating, re-evaluating, or increasing their economic research on health and development to make a significant contribution by focusing particularly on the analysis of behaviour and policy choices related to NCDs. Careful consideration must, of course, be given to other demands, but on the basis of these two criteria, potential contributions are likely to be greatest from research with such a focus. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | LITERATURE REVIEW | RESEARCH ACTIVITIES | ECONOMICS | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | HEALTH | HIV INFECTIONS | DISEASES | INTERVENTIONS | COST BENEFIT ANALYSIS | LENGTH OF LIFE | Research Methodology | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Viral Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 341823 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: [Spatial distribution of elderly individuals in a medium-sized city in São Paulo State, Brazil, according to key socio-demographic and morbidity characteristics] Distribuição espacial dos idosos de um município de médio porte do interior paulista segundo algumas características sócio-demográfi cas e de morbidade. Author: Campos FG; Barrozo LV; Ruiz T; Cesar CL; Barros MB; Carandina L; Goldbaum M Source: Cadernos de Saude Publica. 2009 Jan;25(1):77-86. Abstract: Geographic Information Systems serve as important public health tools for analyzing population disease distribution and thus for identifying individuals with chronic non-communicable diseases. The current study performed a spatial analysis of the distribution of the population 60 years and older in the city of Botucatu, São Paulo State, Brazil, studying the socio-demographic profile and the presence of diabetes mellitus and arterial hypertension. Data were analyzed from 468 elderly individuals from a population survey conducted in 2001-2002. Elders with the highest socioeconomic status live in the census tracts with the highest social strata, as proven statistically by spatial analysis techniques for income and schooling. No spatial distribution pattern was found for elderly individuals with hypertension and diabetes, who were located heterogeneously on the map. The study suggests the use of geoprocessing techniques for digital mapping of areas covered by primary health care units, aimed at better monitoring of the distribution of elderly individuals with chronic diseases and their care by health professionals. Language: Portuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | GEOGRAPHIC FACTORS | POPULATION DISTRIBUTION | DISEASES | HYPERTENSION | DIABETES | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Public Health | Health | Population | Vascular Diseases | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 341870 |
| 7. Title: The growing chronic disease burden: implications for reproductive health. Author: Drake JK Source: Outlook. 2009 Jul;26(1):8 p. Abstract: Approximately 80 percent of deaths from chronic disease occur in low- and middle-income countries, where people tend to develop these diseases at younger ages, suffer longer, and die sooner. A recent analysis found that chronic disease is an "important cause of female death, even during childbearing years, and for women with young families." The newsletter provides background on the growing chronic disease burden in developing countries, and explores current and anticipated impacts of cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, and obesity on reproductive health. Examples include hypertension and diabetes in pregnancy and contraceptive choice and access for women with cardiovascular conditions and risk factors. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | DISEASES | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | MATERNAL MORTALITY | DEATH RATE | HYPERTENSION | DIABETES | SCREENING | FAMILY PLANNING | TREATMENT | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Public Health | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Vascular Diseases | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 341982 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Changing health status and health expectancies among older adults in China: gender differences from 1992 to 2002. Author: Gu D; Dupre ME; Warner DF; Zeng Y Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2009 Jun;68(12):2170-9. Abstract: Numerous studies document improvements in health status and health expectancies among older adults over time. However, most evidence is from developed nations and gender differences in health trends are often inconsistent. It remains unknown whether changes in health in developing countries resemble Western trends or whether patterns of health improvement are unique to the country's epidemiologic transition and gender norms. Using two nationally representative samples of non-institutionalized adults in China aged 65 years and older, this study investigates gender differences in the improvements in disability, chronic disease prevalence, and self-rated health from 1992 to 2002. Results from multivariate logistic regression models show that all three indicators of health improved over the 10-year period, with the largest improvement in self-rated health. With the exception of disability, the health of women improved more than men. Using Sullivan's decomposition methods, we also show that active life expectancy, disease-free life expectancy, and healthy life expectancy increased over this decade and were patterned differently according to gender. Overall, the findings demonstrate that China experienced broad health improvements during its early stages of the epidemiologic transition and that these changes were not uniform by gender. We discuss the public health implications of the findings in the context of China's rapidly aging population. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | ADULTS | GENDER ISSUES | LIFE EXPECTANCY | DISEASES | LIFE STYLE | QUALITY OF LIFE | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sociocultural Factors | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Behavior | Social Welfare | Economic Factors Document Number: 342740 |
| 9. Peer Reviewed Title: The vital signs of chronic disease management. Author: Harries AD; Zachariah R; Kapur A; Jahn A; Enarson DA Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 Jun;103(6):537-40. Abstract: The vital signs of pulse rate, blood pressure, temperature and respiratory rate are the 'nub' of individual patient management. At the programmatic level, vital signs could also be used to monitor the burden and treatment outcome of chronic disease. Case detection and treatment outcome constitute the vital signs of tuberculosis control within the WHO's 'DOTS' framework, and similar vital signs could be adapted and used for management of chronic diseases. The numbers of new patients started on therapy in each month or quarter (new incident cases) are sensitive indicators for programme performance and access to services. Using similar reporting cycles, treatment outcomes for all patients can be assessed, the vital signs being: alive and retained on therapy at the respective facility; died; stopped therapy; lost to follow-up; and transferred out to another facility. Retention on treatment constitutes the prevalent number of cases, the burden of disease, and this provides important strategic information for rational drug forecasting and logistic planning. If case numbers and outcomes of chronic diseases were measured reliably and consistently as part of an integrated programmatic approach, this would strengthen the ability of resource-poor countries to monitor and assess their response to these growing epidemics. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | CLIENTS | MANAGEMENT | PREVENTIVE HEALTH CARE | TUBERCULOSIS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DISEASES | TREATMENT | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | DIABETES | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Infections | HIV | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine Document Number: 342748 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Mortality profiles in a country facing epidemiological transition: An analysis of registered data. Author: Huicho L; Trelles M; Gonzales F; Mendoza W; Miranda J Source: BMC Public Health. 2009 Feb 2;9(47):39 p. Abstract: Sub-national analyses of causes of death and time-trends help to define public health policy priorities. They are particularly important in countries undergoing epidemiological transition like Peru. There are no studies exploring Peruvian national and regional characteristics of such epidemiological transition. We aimed to describe Peru's national and regional mortality profiles between 1996 and 2000. Registered mortality data for the study period were corrected for underregistration following standardized methods. Main causes of death by age group and by geographical region were determined. Departmental mortality profiles were constructed to evaluate mortality transition, using 1996 data as baseline. Annual cumulative slopes for the period 1996-2000 were estimated for each department and region. For the study period non-communicable diseases explained more than half of all causes of death, communicable diseases more than one third, and injuries 10.8% of all deaths. Lima accounted for 32% of total population and 20% of total deaths. The Andean region, with 38% of Peru´s population, accounted for half of all country deaths. Departmental mortality predominance shifted from communicable diseases in 1996 towards non-communicable diseases and injuries in 2000. Maternal and perinatal conditions, and nutritional deficiencies and nutritional anaemia declined markedly in all departments and regions. Infectious diseases decreased in all regions except Lima. In all regions acute respiratory infections are a leading cause of death, but their proportion ranged from 9.3% in Lima and Callao to 15.3% in the Andean region. Tuberculosis and injuries ranked high in Lima and the Andean region. Peruvian mortality shows a double burden of communicable and noncommunicable, with increasing importance of non-communicable diseases and injuries. This challenges national and sub-national health system performance and policy making. Language: English Keywords: PERU | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | CAUSES OF DEATH | DEATH RATE | MORTALITY | AGE FACTORS | DISEASES | DEFICIENCY DISEASES | TUBERCULOSIS | ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Nutrition Disorders | Infections | Health Document Number: 329534 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: The role of controlling behaviour in intimate partner violence and its health effects: a population based study from rural Vietnam. Author: Krantz G; Nguyen Dang V Source: BMC Public Health. 2009 May 14;9(1):143. Abstract: ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: It has been proposed that intimate partner violence is not a single phenomenon but consists of two distinct types of violence, defined conceptually in terms of the presence or absence of controlling behaviour in the violent member of the couple. Studies performed in high income countries support this hypothesis but no studies are available from a low income country. This study wanted to test this hypothesis in a low income setting focusing on men's use of physical/sexual violence with and without control tactics and resulting health effects in rural Vietnam. Of particular interest was whether men's controlling behaviour acted synergistically with physical/sexual violence to aggravate the health outcome. METHODS: In this cross sectional study data was collected among 883 married or partnered women aged 17-60. Structured interviews following a questionnaire developed for violence research were used. Control tactics were assessed by six items combined into a scale with Cronbach alfa of .80. Bi- and multivariate analyses were performed, including effect modification analyses. RESULTS: Of the participating women, 81 (9.2 per cent) had been exposed to physical and/or sexual violence in the past 12 months and of these, 26 had experienced one or more control tactics by their partner. Physical/sexual violence was highly associated with women's pain and discomfort (OR 3.40 (1.85-6.27) and with sadness and depression (OR 4.06 (2.40-6.88), while for suicidal thoughts control tactics were the strongest risk factor (OR 4.41; 1.95-10.02) when controlling for possible confounders. The combined effect of controlling behaviour and physical/sexual violence considerably elevated the risk of ill-health and synergy was present. Controlling men differed in terms of psychosocial characteristics and used more severe violence as compared to men not employing any control tactics. CONCLUSIONS: Physical and/or sexual violence is a serious threat to health in Vietnamese women, especially when combined with controlling behaviours. Health policy and programmes in Vietnam need to address the issue of violence as a most serious violation of gender equity ideas and as an unacceptable part of normal family life. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | RURAL POPULATION | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | DISEASES | HEALTH | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | RISK FACTORS | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Comparative Studies | Data Analysis | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341485 |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: A country-wide malaria survey in Mozambique. II. Malaria attributable proportion of fever and establishment of malaria case definition in children across different epidemiological settings. Author: Mabunda S; Aponte JJ; Tiago A; Alonso P Source: Malaria Journal. 2009;8:74. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Protection against clinical malaria episodes is acquired slowly after frequent exposure to malaria parasites. This is reflected by a decrease with increasing age in both parasite density and incidence of clinical episodes. In many settings of stable malaria transmission, the presence of asymptomatic malaria parasite carriers is common and the definition of clinical malaria remains uncertain. METHODS: Between February 2002 and April 2003, a country-wide malaria survey was conducted in 24 districts of Mozambique, aiming to characterize the malaria transmission intensities and to estimate the proportion of fever cases attributable to malaria infections in order to establish the malaria case definition. A total of 8,816 children less than ten years of age were selected for the study. Axillary temperature was measured in all participating subjects and finger prick blood collections were taken to prepare thick and thin films for identification of parasite species and determination of parasite density. The proportion of fever cases attributable to malaria infection was estimated using a logistic regression of the fever on a monotonic function of the parasite density and, using bootstrap facilities, bootstrapped estimated confidence intervals, as well as the sensitivity and specificity for different parasite density cut-offs were produced. RESULTS: Overall, the prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum was 52.4% (4,616/8,816). The prevalence of fever (axillary temperature >or= 37.5 degrees C) was 9.4% (766/8,816). Fever episodes peaked among children below 12 months of life [15.1% (206/1,517)]. The lowest fever prevalence of 5.9% (67/1,224) was recorded amongst children between five and seven years of age. Among 4,098 parasitized children, 498/4,098 (13.02%) had fever. The prevalence of malaria infections associated with fever peaked among children in the less than twelve months age group and thereafter decreased rapidly with increasing age (p < 0.001). High parasite densities were significantly associated with fever (p < 0.04). The proportion of fever attributed to malaria was 37.8% (95% CI 32.9% - 42.7%). An age-specific pattern was observed with significant variations across different regions in the country. In general, among children less than 12 months of life, the proportion of fever attributed to malaria infection was 43.5% (95% CI 25.8% - 61.2%), in children aged between 12 and 59 months of age was 39.6% (95% CI 30.3% - 48.9%), and among children aged between 5 and 10 years old was 21.5% (95% CI 11.6% - 31.4%). CONCLUSION: This study confirms that malaria remains a major cause of febrile illness during childhood. It also defines the relation between parasite density and fever and how this varies with age and region. This may help guide case definition for clinical trials of preventive tools, as well as provide definitions that may improve the precision of measurement of the burden of disease. Language: English Keywords: MOZAMBIQUE | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | CHILDREN | MALARIA | DISEASES | RISK FACTORS | MORBIDITY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Public Health | Health | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parasitic Diseases Document Number: 342254 |
| 13. Title: Usefulness of highly active antiretroviral therapy on health-related quality of life of adult recipients in Tanzania. Author: Magafu MG; Moji K; Igumbor EU; Hashizume M; Mizota T; Komazawa O; Cai G; Yamamoto T Source: AIDS Patient Care and STDs. 2009 Jul;23(7):563-70. Abstract: This study assessed health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) recipients aged 18 or older and associated factors, 2 years after HAART administration had started in Kagera, Tanzania. Using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), 329 HAART recipients were interviewed in May 2007. Questions on sociodemographic characteristics, chronic diseases (besides HIV/AIDS), HAART side effects and adherence to antiretroviral drugs were added. Treatment data, the first and latest available CD4 counts were retrieved from patients' records. Gender and age-adjusted mean scale scores of the sample were compared to those of the general Tanzanian population of the late 1990 s using t test. Logistic regression was used to explore the effect of sex, age, education level, income, chronic diseases, CD4 count, HAART side effects and adherence to antiretroviral drugs on recipients' physical functioning and mental health scale scores. The mean scale scores of HAART recipients were generally lower than those of the general population except for general health perceptions (p = 0.191) and mental health (p = 0.161). HAART recipients with chronic disease comorbidity were more likely to score below the general population's mean score for mental health (p = 0.007). While the effect of chronic disease comorbidity on physical functioning among those who recorded a CD4 count increase was negative (odds ratio [OR] = 13.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.7, 49.9), there was no effect on those who did not have such an increase. The control of chronic diseases among recipients should be given priority to improve their HRQOL. Language: English Keywords: TANZANIA | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | CLIENTS | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | DISEASES | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | HIV | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | TREATMENT | QUALITY OF LIFE | PERCEPTION | MENTAL HEALTH | TESTING | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Health | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Economic Factors | Viral Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Social Welfare | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Measurement | Research Methodology Document Number: 342980 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: The burden of non-communicable diseases in South Africa. Author: Mayosi BM; Flisher AJ; Lalloo UG; Sitas F; Tollman SM; Bradshaw D Source: Lancet. 2009 Sep 12;374(9693):934-47. Abstract: 15 years after its first democratic election, South Africa is in the midst of a profound health transition that is characterised by a quadruple burden of communicable, non-communicable, perinatal and maternal, and injury-related disorders. Non-communicable diseases are emerging in both rural and urban areas, most prominently in poor people living in urban settings, and are resulting in increasing pressure on acute and chronic health-care services. Major factors include demographic change leading to a rise in the proportion of people older than 60 years, despite the negative effect of HIV/AIDS on life expectancy. The burden of these diseases will probably increase as the roll-out of antiretroviral therapy takes effect and reduces mortality from HIV/AIDS. The scale of the challenge posed by the combined and growing burden of HIV/AIDS and non-communicable diseases demands an extraordinary response that South Africa is well able to provide. Concerted action is needed to strengthen the district-based primary health-care system, to integrate the care of chronic diseases and management of risk factors, to develop a national surveillance system, and to apply interventions of proven cost-effectiveness in the primary and secondary prevention of such diseases within populations and health services. We urge the launching of a national initiative to establish sites of service excellence in urban and rural settings throughout South Africa to trial, assess, and implement integrated care interventions for chronic infectious and non-communicable diseases. Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | RURAL AREAS | RURAL POPULATION | LOW INCOME POPULATION | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | DISEASES | HEALTH SERVICES | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Geographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Population Dynamics | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | AIDS Document Number: 342869 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: Some minor female reproductive system disorders: findings in the Oxford-Family Planning Association contraceptive study. Author: Vessey M; Yeates D Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2009 Apr;35(2):105-10. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Oxford-Family Planning Association (Oxford-FPA) contraceptive study has provided information on many serious diseases of the female reproductive tract. No information has been published about a number of common minor conditions. This report fills the gap with regard to uterine polyp, cervicitis, cervical erosion, and vaginitis and vulvitis. METHODS: The Oxford-FPA study includes 17 032 married women recruited at ages 25-39 years between 1968 and 1974 from clinics in England and Scotland. These women were followed up until mid-1994. Information collected during follow-up included details of contraceptive use, cervical smears taken at the clinic, pregnancies and hospital referrals. RESULTS: Oral contraceptive (OC) use was associated with a reduction in first hospital referral for uterine polyp and for vaginitis and vulvitis, which became more marked with increasing duration of use. There was a slightly increased rate of hospital referral for cervicitis in OC users. Referral for cervical erosion was markedly increased in current and recent OC users (rate ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 1.8-2.4). This increase in risk steadily declined after OC use was discontinued. First hospital referral for both uterine polyp and cervical erosion showed a highly significant negative association with numbers of cigarettes smoked per day. The explanation for these observations is unknown. CONCLUSIONS: It should be remembered that the OCs studied were mainly those used in the 1970s and 1980s and mostly contained 50 mug estrogen. On balance, the overall effect of OC use on the conditions considered was neutral or beneficial. The apparent protective effect of cigarette smoking against uterine polyp and cervical erosion, even if valid, counts as nothing against the overwhelming adverse effects of smoking on health. Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | WOMEN | CURRENTLY MARRIED | PREVALENCE | VAGINITIS | UTERUS | DISEASES | CERVICAL EFFECTS | REPRODUCTIVE TRACT INFECTIONS | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | PAP SMEAR | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Research Methodology | Studies | Demographic Factors | Population | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Measurement | Vaginal Abnormalities | Genitalia, Female | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Cervix | Infections | Contraception | Family Planning | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 330947 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Morbidity in HIV-1-Infected children treated or not treated with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire, 2000-04. Author: Walenda C; Kouakoussui A; Rouet F; Wemin L; Anaky MF; Msellati P Source: Journal of Tropical Pediatrics. 2009 Jun;55(3):170-6. Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the 2008 UNAIDS epidemic update, 33 million people worldwide were estimated infected with HIV, including 2.2 million children. In Cote d'Ivoire, 480,000 adults and 60,000 children were HIV-infected. Studies in developed countries have shown an improvement of children's morbidity under HAART treatment. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to describe and compare morbidity in relation to evolution of the disease in HIV-1-infected children in Cote d'Ivoire, according to symptoms and the presence or absence of HAART treatment. METHODOLOGY: A total of 273 HIV-1-infected children from age 18 months to 18 years were included from October 2000 until December 2003. Follow-up was continued until 30 September 2004. The study population was divided in three groups. Group 1 included symptomatic children treated under HAART. Group 2 included asymptomatic children who did not need HAART treatment. Group 3 included children who met criteria to be treated at inclusion but were not treated. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The three most common diseases in Group 1 before treatment were bronchitis, diarrhoea and ear nose and throat (ENT) diseases. Under treatment, the three most common diseases in Group 1 were bronchitis, ENT diseases and diarrhoea. The three most occurring diseases in Group 2 were bronchitis, ENT diseases and skin infectious diseases. The three most occurring diseases in Group 3 were bronchitis, diarrhoea and ENT diseases. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of diseases was significantly lower among asymptomatic children than among symptomatic untreated children (p < 0.0001). The morbidity found in symptomatic children who received treatment was similar to that encountered in asymptomatic children. The main reason for death in all of the groups was tuberculosis. Language: English Keywords: COTE D'IVOIRE | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | CHILDREN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | MORBIDITY | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | HIV INFECTIONS | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | DISEASES | INCIDENCE | MORTALITY | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | HIV | Measurement | Population Dynamics Document Number: 341970 |
| 17. Title: 2006 Bangladesh Urban Health Survey (UHS). Volume I. Author: Bangladesh. National Institute of Population Research and Training [NIPORT]; University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Carolina Population Center. MEASURE Evaluation; International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh [ICDDR,B]; Associates for Community and Population Research [ACPR] Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center, MEASURE Evaluation, 2008 Dec. [310] p. (USAID Contract No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00TR-08-68a) Abstract: Nearly all of the global population growth in the next three decades will occur in urban areas, primarily as a massive migration occurs from the rural areas of middle and lower-income societies to their cities. Many, if not most of these migrants, who are generally possessed of low human and financial capital on arrival in the city, will settle in slums, the areas of concentrated poverty and environmental vulnerability that are already a dominant feature of much of the urban landscape of the developing world. Bangladesh will be no exception to these trends. The growth in her urban population is set to outstrip by a wide margin that in rural areas. Moreover, the urban growth already experienced in recent decades demonstrates that slums will likely be an increasingly important feature of urban existence in Bangladesh. Anticipating these developments, USAID and the Government of Bangladesh tasked a research team based in Bangladesh and the United States (at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) with conducting a survey designed to obtain a broad health profile of the urban population of Bangladesh. The ultimate fruit of this effort was the 2006 Urban Health Survey (2006 UHS), a rich, microlevel health-interview survey of communities, households, and individuals throughout the City Corporations and a sample of District Municipalities. The principal objectives of the 2006 UHS were: 1) To obtain a profile of health problems and health-care seeking behavior in urban areas of Bangladesh; 2) To identify vulnerable groups and examine their health profile and health-care seeking behavior; and 3) To examine the individual, household, and neighborhood-level factors associated with health outcomes and health behaviors in urban areas. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | SUMMARY REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | QUESTIONNAIRES | HOUSEHOLDS | FAMILY CHARACTERISTICS | CHILD LABOR | SANITATION | WATER QUALITY | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | HEALTH | EMPLOYMENT | MIGRATION | QUALITY OF LIFE | DISEASES | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | FERTILITY | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | INFANT NUTRITION | MENTAL HEALTH | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Public Health | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Socioeconomic Status | Macroeconomic Factors | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Welfare | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems | Nutrition Document Number: 329544 |
| 18. Title: Protecting health from climate change: World Health Day 2008. Summary of issues paper. Author: World Health Organization [WHO] Source: [Geneva, Switzerland], WHO, 2008. 2 p. Abstract: There is now widespread agreement that the earth is warming, due to emissions of greenhouse gases caused by human activity. It is also clear that current trends in energy use development and population growth will lead to continuing - and more severe - climate change. The changing climate will inevitably affect the basic requirements for maintaining health: clean air and water, sufficient food and adequate shelter. Each year, about 800 000 people die from causes attributable to urban air pollution, 1.8 million from diarrhoea resulting from lack of access to clean water supply, sanitation, and poor hygiene, 3.5 million from malnutrition and approximately 60 000 in natural disasters. A warmer and more variable climate threatens to lead to higher levels of some air pollutants, increase transmission of diseases through unclean water and through contaminated food, to compromise agricultural production in some of the least developed countries, and increase the hazards of extreme weather. Climate change also brings new challenges to the control of infectious diseases. Many of the major killers are highly climate sensitive as regards to temperature and rainfall, including cholera, and the diarrhoeal diseases, as well as diseases including malaria, dengue and other infections carried by vectors. In sum, climate change threatens to slow, halt or reverse the progress that the global public health community is now making against many of these diseases. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | GLOBAL WARMING | WORLD HEALTH DAY | HEALTH | DISEASES | ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION | NATURAL DISASTERS | EPIDEMICS | WATER SUPPLY | AGRICULTURE | WHO | Climate | Environment | International Cooperation | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Natural Resources | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | UN | International Agencies | Organizations Document Number: 325695 |
| 19. Title: Meconium peritonitis in Nigerian children. Author: Abubakar AM; Odelola MA; Bode CO; Sowande AO; Bello MA; Chinda JY; Jalo I Source: Annals of African Medicine. 2008 Dec;7(4):187-91. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Meconium peritonitis is a rare disease with a fatal outcome. In Nigeria and Africa, there are only the occasional case reports on the subject matter. METHODS: This is a 10-year retrospective study of all patients with meconium peritonitis treated at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, Maiduguri, Borno State, the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals complex, Ile-Ife, Osun State and the Federal Medical Centre Gombe, Gombe State, Nigeria. RESULTS: There were 10 neonates comprising 6 girls and 4 boys. The median age at presentation was 4 days (range 2-6 days). Six of the mothers of the children with meconium peritonitis had a supervised antenatal care and 4 had antenatal ultrasonography but meconium peritonitis was missed. The most common clinical presentation was abdominal distension at birth in 9 of 10 patients. The abdominal X-rays showed calcification and homogenous opacity in 4 patients and pneumoperitoneum in 2 patients. At laparotomy, all the patients had inflammatory adhesion bands and matted bowel loops. The generalized type was the commonest form observed (7 patients) and giant pseudocyst was noted in 2 patients. The commonest sites of perforation were the ileum in 4 patients and jejunum in 3 patients. In one patient the perforation had sealed at laparotomy. Intestinal obstruction was the commonest cause of meconium peritonitis in 7 of 10 patients. In the remaining 3 patients the cause is unknown. The commonest procedure performed was resection and anastomosis (4 patients). The mortality rate was high (50%). CONCLUSION: Our data revealed the rarity of meconium peritonitis and intestinal obstruction as the commonest cause. It is recommended that in patients with an unidentifiable cause a rectal biopsy should be done to rule out Hirschsprung's disease. Early diagnosis, proper operative procedure and meticulous post-operative care should improve their survival. Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | NEONATAL DISEASES AND ABNORMALITIES | GASTROINTESTINAL EFFECTS | DISEASES | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Studies | Research Methodology | Physiology | Biology | Pregnancy | Reproduction Document Number: 342267 |
| 20. Title: Integrating research into policy and programmes. Examples from the Jamaican experience. Author: Ashley DE; McCaw-Binns A Source: West Indian Medical Journal. 2008 Dec;57(6):555-61. Abstract: Research into selected health problems across the life cycle are discussed with respect to the application and impact of the findings on policy, programme development and health outcomes. Special emphasis is placed on health research that focussed on the perinatal period, the young child and adolescent, the epidemics of chronic diseases and violence and the linkage between health and tourism. The lessons learnt over more than two decades of practice in the field of public health from conducting research aimed at developing an indigenous evidence base for policies and programmes in Jamaica are summarized. Language: English Keywords: JAMAICA | RESEARCH REPORT | YOUTH | CHILDREN | DISEASES | RISK BEHAVIOR | PUBLIC HEALTH | FAMILY LIFE CYCLE | POLICY | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | Caribbean | Americas | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Health | Family Research | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Technology | Economic Factors Document Number: 342424 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Preventing HIV antiretroviral resistance through better monitoring of treatment adherence. Author: Bangsberg DR Source: Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2008 May 15;197 Suppl 3:S272-S278. Abstract: Suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the most common cause of viral rebound. Accurate and reliable measures of ART adherence will be needed in the transition from reactive response to proactive prevention of viral rebound in the era of chronic human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease management. Such tools could define individual "signature adherence patterns," which could inform regimen choice and guide behavioral intervention. Upcoming advances in adherence monitoring present opportunities to better match HIV-disease treatment strategies with individual adherence behavior. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV PREVENTION | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | DRUG RESISTANCE | MONITORING | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DISEASES | MANAGEMENT | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Evaluation | HIV | Organization and Administration Document Number: 326570 |
| 22. Title: Maternal mortality from eclampsia in developing countries: some progress, but still a major challenge [editorial] Author: Benhamou D Source: Canadian Journal of Anaesthesia. 2008 Jul;55(7):397-402. Abstract: This editorial examines the causes of maternal death in developed countries in comparison with the causes of maternal death in developing countries. It explains that developed countries are seeing an increasing role of obesity, diabetes, tobacco use, and psychiatric illness in factors associated with maternal death while developing countries still face a major challenge with eclampsia. Language: EnglishFrench Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | MATERNAL MORTALITY | DEATH RATE | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | DISEASES | ECLAMPSIA | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | EVALUATION | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 329256 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: A resurgent HIV-1 epidemic among men who have sex with men in the era of potent antiretroviral therapy. Author: Bezemer D; de Wolf F; Boerlijst MC; van Sighem A; Hollingsworth TD Source: AIDS. 2008;22(9):1071-1077. Abstract: Reducing viral load, highly active antiretroviral therapy has the potential to limit onwards transmission of HIV-1 and thus help contain epidemic spread. However, increases in risk behaviour and resurgent epidemics have been widely reported posthighly active antiretroviral therapy. The aim of this study was to quantify the impact that highly active antiretroviral therapy had on the epidemic. We focus on the HIV-1 epidemic among men who have sex with men in the Netherlands, which has been well documented over the past 20 years within several long-standing national surveillance programs. We used a mathematical model including highly active antiretroviral therapy use and estimated the changes in risk behaviour and diagnosis rate needed to explain annual data on HIV and AIDS diagnoses. We show that the reproduction number R(t), a measure of the state of the epidemic, declined early on from initial values above two and was maintained below one from 1985 to 2000. Since 1996, when highly active antiretroviral therapy became widely used, the risk behaviour rate has increased 66%, resulting in an increase of R(t) to 1.04 in the latest period 2000-2004 (95% confidence interval 0.98-1.09) near or just above the threshold for a self-sustaining epidemic. Hypothetical scenario analysis shows that the epidemiological benefits of highly active antiretroviral therapy and earlier diagnosis on incidence have been entirely offset by increases in the risk behaviour rate. We provide the first detailed quantitative analysis of the HIV epidemic in a well defined population and find a resurgent epidemic in the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy, most likely predominantly caused by increasing sexual risk behaviour. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NETHERLANDS | RESEARCH REPORT | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | QUANTITATIVE RESEARCH | MEN | HOMOSEXUALS | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DISEASES | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | EPIDEMICS | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Theoretical Models | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | HIV | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases Document Number: 327154 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Maternal and child undernutrition: Global and regional exposures and health consequences. Author: Black RE; Allen LH; Bhutta ZA; Caulfield LE; de Onis M Source: Lancet. 2008 Jan 19;371(9608):243-260. Abstract: Maternal and child undernutrition is highly prevalent in low-income and middle-income countries, resulting in substantial increases in mortality and overall disease burden. In this paper, we present new analyses to estimate the effects of the risks related to measures of undernutrition, as well as to suboptimum breastfeeding practices on mortality and disease. We estimated that stunting, severe wasting, and intrauterine growth restriction together were responsible for 2.2 million deaths and 21% of disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for children younger than 5 years. Deficiencies of vitamin A and zinc were estimated to be responsible for 0.6 million and 0.4 million deaths, respectively, and a combined 9% of global childhood DALYs. Iron and iodine deficiencies resulted in few child deaths, and combined were responsible for about 0.2% of global childhood DALYs. Iron deficiency as a risk factor for maternal mortality added 115 000 deaths and 0.4% of global total DALYs. Suboptimum breastfeeding wasestimated to be responsible for 1.4 million child deaths and 44 million DALYs (10% of DALYs in children younger than 5 years). In an analysis that accounted for co-exposure of these nutrition-related factors, they were together responsible for about 35% of child deaths and 11% of the total global disease burden. The high mortality and disease burden resulting from these nutrition-related factors make a compelling case for the urgent implementation of interventions to reduce their occurrence or ameliorate their consequences. (author's) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | MATERNAL NUTRITION | CHILD NUTRITION | MALNUTRITION | PREVALENCE | MORTALITY DETERMINANTS | DIET | DISEASES | DEFICIENCY DISEASES | BODY WEIGHT | BREASTFEEDING | SUPPLEMENTARY FEEDING | Nutrition | Health | Nutrition Disorders | Measurement | Research Methodology | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Physiology | Biology | Infant Nutrition Document Number: 323785 |
| 25. Title: Estimation of the prevalence of AIDS, opportunistic infections, and standard of care among patients with HIV/AIDS receiving care along the U.S.-Mexico border through the Special Projects of National Significance: a cross-sectional study. Author: Carabin H; Keesee MS; Machado LJ; Brittingham T; Williams L; Sonleitner NK; Anderson KG; Cajina A; Foster MW Source: AIDS Patient Care and STDs. 2008 Nov;22(11):887-95. Abstract: There is high demand for care among the Hispanic population in states along the U.S.-Mexico border. The objective is to describe the standard of care received by people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH/A) at enrollment into one of five Special Projects of National Significance (SPNS) Sites located along the U.S.-Mexico border. This cross-sectional study describes the presence of opportunistic infections (OIs), AIDS status and two types of standard of care received by 707 PLWH/A participating in SPNS. Patients receiving care through SPNS in one of the five sites between June 1, 2002 and December 31, 2003 were invited to participate to the medical chart review component of the study. The association between sociodemographic variables and the prevalence of OIs and AIDS at enrollment was estimated using multivariate hierarchical logistic models. More than one quarter of the 707 participants had at least one OI recorded and 58% of new and 60% of existing patients had AIDS at enrollment in SPNS. The association between being Hispanic and having higher prevalence of OI and AIDS at entry varied by SPNS site. Standard of care was well followed overall. This is the first study describing HIV stage and OI prevalences and standard of care in PLWH/A in all U.S.-Mexico bordering states. Being of Hispanic ethnicity may not fully explain discrepancy in access to care along the border. Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HISPANICS | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | DISEASES | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | STANDARDS | HEALTH SERVICES | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Developed Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Ethnic Groups | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 329725 |
| 26. Title: The role of mothers in household health-seeking behavior and decision-making in childhood febrile illness in Okurikang/Ikot Effiong Otop Community, Cross River State, Nigeria. Author: Charles JO; Udonwa NE; Ikoh MU; Ikpeme BI Source: Health Care for Women International. 2008 Sep;29(8):826-840. Abstract: The authors examine mothers and decision making during childhood febrile illness in rural Nigeria in this article. Employing a cross-sectional descriptive community survey, we elicited information from four categories of caregivers with the help of structured questionnaires. Apart from sociostructural economic factors, the authors reveal how interlocking objectives and values as expressed in extended family institutions functioned to influence both behavior and decision making of mothers. We suggest expanding the target of health education in the rural areas to include the family as an extended structure. Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | RURAL POPULATION | MOTHERS | CHILDREN | DECISION MAKING | HEALTH EDUCATION | MALARIA | HOME CARE | MORBIDITY | INFECTIONS | DISEASES | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Behavior | Education | Parasitic Diseases | Care and Support | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 329497 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: From Alma-Ata to Agincourt: primary health care in AIDS. Author: Coovadia H; Bland R Source: Lancet. 2008 Sep 13;372(9642):866-8. Abstract: The 30th anniversary of Alma-Ata provides a tremendous opportunity to galvanise the increasing political commitment and global momentum behind meeting the health-related Millennium Development Goals (MDG). MDG 4 calls for a two-thirds reduction in mortality of children aged less than 5 years between 1990 and 2015. Accurate and timely estimates of childhood mortality are needed to help countries set priorities, to design programmes, and to monitor progress. Such estimates are challenging to make because data are scarce in many developing countries. In response, in 2004, experts at UNICEF, WHO, the World Bank, the UN Population Division (UNPD), and members of the academic community, formed the Inter-Agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation. The IGME aims to produce best estimates on levels and trends in child mortality worldwide, to improve and harmonise methods across partners, and to source and share new data on child mortality. Each year, UNICEF, on the basis of work of the IGME, publishes the latest summary data on global mortality in children under 5 years of age as they become available. Detailed national estimates of mortality, trend analysis, and other indicators are then published in the annual The State of the World's Children report. Further analysis along with other policy and programme data are also presented every 2-3 years as the Countdown to 2015, involving UNICEF, WHO, UN Population Fund (UNFPA) and a range of civil society, academic, and donor partners. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA | SOUTH AFRICA | CRITIQUE | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | AIDS | DISEASES | VALIDITY | DATA QUALITY | HEALTH SERVICES | TREATMENT | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 328503 |
| 28. Peer Reviewed Title: Adult mortality in a rural area of Senegal: Non-communicable diseases have a large impact in Mlomp. Author: Duthe G; Pison G Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Aug 1;19(37):1419-1448. Abstract: This study provides original estimates of adult mortality in Mlomp, a rural population of Senegal which has been monitored for twenty years. Causes of death are assessed through verbal autopsies which are completed by medical information. Between ages 15 and 60, male mortality is much higher than female mortality. Globally, AIDS mortality does not have the tragic impact observed in other regions of Africa, and maternal mortality is relatively low for a rural area, unlike injuries which are common among men. In Mlomp, non-communicable diseases, especially cancers, are predominant. In addition to behavioural factors, infectious diseases may contribute to this situation. (author's) Language: English Keywords: SENEGAL | RESEARCH REPORT | MORTALITY | DEATH RECORDS | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | AUTOPSY | CAUSES OF DEATH | COMMUNITY SURVEYS | SEX FACTORS | DISEASES | NEOPLASMS | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Vital Statistics | Population Statistics | Research Methodology | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Population Characteristics Document Number: 327944 |
| 29. Title: [Immunosuppressants for auto-immune diseases and pregnancy] Immunosuppresseurs utilises dans les maladies systemiques: que faire en cas de Author: Elefant E; Cournot MP; Assari F; Vauzelle C Source: Presse Medicale. 2008 Nov;37(11):1620-6. Abstract: Therapeutic stability of a systemic disease is a priority during pregnancy. To stop an effective treatment, to reduce dosages or to switch to less effective treatments might induce some loss of chance for pregnant women, and eventually harmful consequences for fetuses. Due to the teratogenic effects of some immunosuppressants, childbearing susceptible women should use effective contraception and be informed of risks in case of pregnancy. A pre-conceptional consultation is of interest, allowing an adaptation of treatment and advices before pregnancy is ongoing. Mycophenolate is highly suspected to be teratogenic in humans. Mycophenolate should not be prescribed in women of childbearing potential unless some criteria are met. Maternal (even fetal) infectious conditions can occur during immunosuppressive treatments. Therefore, obstetricians and pediatricians should be aware of the maternal treatment in order to allow adequate monitoring of the mother and the neonate. Language: French Keywords: RESEARCH REPORT | MONITORING | MOTHERS | PREGNANT WOMEN | PREGNANCY | IMMUNOLOGIC FACTORS | DISEASES | AUTOIMMUNE RESPONSE | TREATMENT | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | Evaluation | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Immunity | Immune System | Physiology | Biology | Antibodies | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Drugs Document Number: 329412 |
| 30. Peer Reviewed Title: [Infant mortality and its preventability in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil, 2000-2002] Mortalidade infantil e evitabilidade em Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil, 2000 a 2002. Author: Gastaud AL; Honer MR; Cunha RV Source: Cadernos de Saude Publica. 2008 Jul;24(7):1631-40. Abstract: This retrospective study describes the epidemiological profile of infant mortality in 2000-2002 in 16 counties in Mato Grosso do Sul State, Brazil, and evaluates the preventability of such deaths, using the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) and the List of Causes of Death Preventable by Interventions in the Setting of the Brazilian Unified National Health System in Children Under Five Years. Perinatal causes accounted for 54.3% of the 1,537 deaths, according to the Mortality Information System; congenital anomalies 14.9%; infectious and parasitic diseases 9.4%; and respiratory disorders 7%. A full 73.1% of deaths were preventable, and most (69.5%) resulted from inadequate prenatal, obstetric, and neonatal care. Additional causes were related to vaccine prevention (0.7%), diagnosis and treatment (10.4%), and health promotion (11.2%). Causes not entirely avoidable accounted for 24.3% of deaths. The findings emphasize the relevance of monitoring adverse maternal-infant conditions and events, particularly to reduce early neonatal mortality (<7 days of life). Language: Portuguese Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INFANT | INFECTIONS | DISEASES | INFANT MORTALITY | PERINATAL MORTALITY | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | PROGRAM EVALUATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342263 |
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