1.  Peer Reviewed Title: ACOG Committee Opinion No. 434: induced abortion and breast cancer risk. Author: Committee on Gynecologic Practice Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2009 Jun;113(6):1417-8. Abstract: The Relationship between induced abortion and the subsequent development of breast cancer has been the subject of a substantial amount of epidemiologic study. Early studies of the relationship between prior induced abortion and breast cancer risk were methodologically flawed. More rigorous recent studies demonstrate no causal relationship between induced abortion and a subsequent increase in breast cancer risk. Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | RETROSPECTIVE STUDIES | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | ABORTION | BREAST CANCER | RISK FACTORS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | BIAS | Studies | Research Methodology | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Cancer | Neoplasms | Diseases | Health | Public Health | Error Sources | Measurement Document Number: 341807 Notification |
2.  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 |
| 3. Title: Development of Assays to Estimate HIV Incidence. Meeting proceedings, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, May 13-14, 2009. Author: Meeting on the Development of Assays to Estimate HIV Incidence (2009: Chapel Hill) Source: [Research Triangle Park], North Carolina, Family Health International [FHI], 2009. [70] p. Abstract: Family Health International (FHI) convened a meeting on the Development of Assays to Estimate HIV Incidence on May 13-14, 2009 at the Carolina Inn in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The purpose of this meeting was to assess how new and existing technologies and research could be applied to advance the development of assays to estimate HIV incidence. Nearly fifty leading experts including immunologists, epidemiologists, HIV transmission experts, assay developers, virologists, industry representatives, and potential users of assays participated in the meeting. The meeting was primarily supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and in conjunction with and the support of the World Health Organization (WHO), the HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN), and the Center for HIV / AIDS Vaccine Immunology (CHAVI). (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | VALIDITY | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | INCIDENCE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | STUDY DESIGN | HIV INFECTIONS | AWARENESS | TREATMENT | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Measurement | Public Health | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 331753 |
| 4. Title: Oral contraceptives and the risk of multiple sclerosis: A review of the epidemiologic evidence. Author: Alonso A; Clark CJ Source: Journal of the Neurological Sciences. 2009 May 7; Abstract: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is more frequent in women than in men, suggesting that sex hormones could play a role in the development of MS. For this reason, several studies have assessed whether use of oral contraceptives modifies the risk of MS. In this article, we review the methodology and results of published epidemiologic studies addressing this issue. On the whole, the existing epidemiologic evidence does not support an important effect of oral contraceptive use on the risk of MS, though it does suggest that oral contraceptives might delay the onset of the disease. Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | WOMEN | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, SIDE EFFECTS | CONTRACEPTIVE SAFETY | CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM EFFECTS | RISK ASSESSMENT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Safety | Public Health | Health | Central Nervous System | Physiology | Biology | Evaluation Document Number: 341145 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV prevalence, risks for HIV infection, and human rights among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Malawi, Namibia, and Botswana. Author: Baral S; Trapence G; Motimedi F; Umar E; Iipinge S; Dausab F; Beyrer C Source: PloS One. 2009;4(3):e4997. Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the generalized epidemics of HIV in southern Sub-Saharan Africa, men who have sex with men have been largely excluded from HIV surveillance and research. Epidemiologic data for MSM in southern Africa are among the sparsest globally, and HIV risk among these men has yet to be characterized in the majority of countries. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional anonymous probe of 537 men recruited with non-probability sampling among men who reported ever having had sex with another man in Malawi, Namibia, and Botswana using a structured survey instrument and HIV screening with the OraQuick(c) rapid test kit. PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: The HIV prevalence among those between the ages of 18 and 23 was 8.3% (20/241); 20.0% (42/210) among those 24-29; and 35.7% (30/84) among those older than 30 for an overall prevalence of 17.4% (95% CI 14.4-20.8). In multivariate logistic regressions, being older than 25 (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 2.0-8.0), and not always wearing condoms during sex (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.3-4.9) were significantly associated with being HIV-positive. Sexual concurrency was common with 16.6% having ongoing concurrent stable relationships with a man and a woman and 53.7% had both male and female sexual partners in proceeding 6 months. Unprotected anal intercourse was common and the use of petroleum-based lubricants was also common when using condoms. Human rights abuses, including blackmail and denial of housing and health care was prevalent with 42.1% (222/527) reporting at least one abuse. CONCLUSIONS: MSM are a high-risk group for HIV infection and human rights abuses in Malawi, Namibia, and Botswana. Concurrency of sexual partnerships with partners of both genders may play important roles in HIV spread in these populations. Further epidemiologic and evaluative research is needed to assess the contribution of MSM to southern Africa's HIV epidemics and how best to mitigate this. These countries should initiate and adequately fund evidence-based and targeted HIV prevention programs for MSM. Language: English Keywords: MALAWI | NAMIBIA | BOTSWANA | RESEARCH REPORT | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | HIV INFECTIONS | PREVALENCE | RISK FACTORS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HUMAN RIGHTS | SEX BEHAVIOR | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Health | Public Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341820 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Effects of a rapid peer-based HIV/AIDS educational intervention on knowledge and attitudes of high school students in a high-income Arab country. Author: Barss P; Grivna M; Ganczak M; Bernsen R; Al-Maskari F Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 Sep 1;52(1):86-98. Abstract: INTRODUCTION: In response to low knowledge about HIV and intolerant attitudes toward persons living with HIV among Arab university students, a peer-based educational intervention was developed and impact evaluated on knowledge and attitudes of high school students in 2 of 4 main cities of United Arab Emirates. METHODS: Four small teams of final year medical students, 3 female and 1 male, were trained. Multistage random sampling selected 14 female and 5 male Arab schools, then 56 female and 14 male grade 12 classes in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. The 90-minute intervention included a factual presentation and 3 attitude workshops. Baseline and postintervention knowledge and attitudes were assessed. Significance was tested by McNemar, Wilcoxon signed rank, and multilevel regression tests. RESULTS: Response was 99.6%, 1398 females and 505 males. Misconceptions about modes of transmission and intolerant attitudes were evident. Mean knowledge score improved from 65% to 82% and attitude 51% to 64%, that is, relative increase 26% (P < 0.0005). Females had slightly lower baseline knowledge than males but showed greater improvement in knowledge and attitudes (P < 0.0005) CONCLUSIONS: Grade 12 students' knowledge about HIV/AIDS was inadequate and attitudes stigmatizing. Peer-based knowledge workshops were effective, especially among females. Concise integrated teaching and workshops designed to address key knowledge and attitudinal deficiencies can be highly effective. Language: English Keywords: MIDDLE EAST | RESEARCH REPORT | STUDENTS | SECONDARY SCHOOLS | HIGH INCOME POPULATION | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | SEX BEHAVIOR | SEX EDUCATION | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | INTERVENTIONS | STIGMA | ADOLESCENT HEALTH | PROMOTION | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Education | Schools | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration | Social Problems | Health | Marketing | Public Health Document Number: 342885 |
| 7. Title: Highly divergent subtypes and new recombinant forms prevail in the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Angola: new insights into the origins of the AIDS pandemic. Author: Bartolo I; Rocha C; Bartolomeu J; Gama A; Marcelino R; Fonseca M; Mendes A; Epalanga M; Silva PC; Taveira N Source: Infection, Genetics and Evolution. 2009 Jul;9(4):672-82. Abstract: Angola, located in South-Western Africa, has a remarkably low HIV/AIDS prevalence in the adult population (3.7%). It is bordered in the North by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Republic of Congo that are at the origin of human HIV-1 infections. It is, therefore, likely that HIV-1 strains circulating in Angola are genetically diverse and representative of the origin of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The aim of this work was to investigate in detail the genetic diversity and molecular epidemiology of HIV-1 in Angola. Almost 400 sequences were obtained from the gag (p17), pol (PR and RT) and/or env (C2C3) genes of 159 HIV-1 infected patients living in eight provinces of Angola (Benguela, Cabinda, Cuanza Norte, Luanda, Lunda Norte, Malange, Uige, and Zaire) and their genotype was determined by phylogenetic analyses. Gene regions representing all HIV-1 group M clades were found as well as unclassifiable sequences. In env and pol (RT), two groups of sequences forming distinct sub-clusters within the subtype A radiation were found and may define new A5 and A6 sub-subtypes. Recombinant forms were found in almost half (47.1%) of the patients of which 36.0% were second-generation recombinants. Fifty-eight different patterns of recombination were found. The A subtype, including CRF02_AG, was represented in most recombinant viruses. Epidemiological data suggests that the AIDS epidemic in Angola has probably started as early as 1961, the major cause being the independence war, and spread to Portugal soon thereafter. The extraordinary degree of HIV-1 group M genetic diversity and evolution in Angola may pose unprecedented challenges to diagnostic, treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection. Language: English Keywords: ANGOLA | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HIV | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | MANAGEMENT | TREATMENT | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Measurement | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Organization and Administration Document Number: 342757 |
| 8. Title: Estimating HIV-1 incidence using the serologic testing algorithm for recent HIV infections at HIV counseling and testing centers in the city of Sao Paulo, Brazil. Author: Bassichetto KC; Bergamaschi DP; Veras MA; Sucupira MC; Mesquita F; Diaz RS Source: Brazilian Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2009 Feb;13(1):9-12. Abstract: The network of HIV counseling and testing centers in Sao Paulo, Brazil is a major source of data used to build epidemiological profiles of the client population. We examined HIV-1 incidence from November 2000 to April 2001, comparing epidemiological and socio-behavioral data of recently-infected individuals with those with long-standing infection. A less sensitive ELISA was employed to identify recent infection. The overall incidence of HIV-1 infection was 0.53/100/year (95% CI: 0.31-0.85/100/year): 0.77/100/year for males (95% CI: 0.42-1.27/100/year) and 0.22/100/ year (95% CI: 0.05-0.59/100/year) for females. Overall HIV-1 prevalence was 3.2% (95% CI: 2.8-3.7%), being 4.0% among males (95% CI: 3.3-4.7%) and 2.1% among females (95% CI: 1.6-2.8%). Recent infections accounted for 15% of the total (95% CI: 10.2-20.8%). Recent infection correlated with being younger and male (p = 0.019). Therefore, recent infection was more common among younger males and older females. Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | STATISTICAL STUDIES | CLIENTS | HIV TESTING | HIV INFECTIONS | INCIDENCE | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | EPIDEMIOLOGY | PREVALENCE | TIME FACTORS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Studies | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Public Health | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 342655 |
| 9. Title: Limited knowledge on progestogen-only contraception and risk of venous thromboembolism. Author: Bergendal A; Odlind V; Persson I; Kieler H Source: Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2009;88(3):261-266. Abstract: Objective. To assess the current knowledge concerning progestogen-only contraception (POC) and risks of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Design and setting. Systematic review of the literature on observational and analytical studies reporting risk estimates for VTE in women exposed to POCs. Methods and main outcome measures. We performed a computerized literature search in the Pub Med, Embase, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between 1966 and February 13, 2008. Based on the evaluated studies we calculated an overall risk estimate for VTE in association with POC. Results. Four case-control studies and one cohort study were included. Of the case-control studies, three reported an increased risk and one a decreased risk of VTE. The cohort study found divergent results depending on the type of statistical analysis used. None of the results was statistically significant. The overall odds ratio for POC-associated VTE in the four case-control studies was 1.45 (95% CI=0.92-2.26). Conclusions. The risk of VTE associated with use of POCs is poorly investigated. The slightly elevated overall risk estimate might suggest an association between POC and an increased risk for VTE. The results must, however, be interpreted with caution due to the possibility of residual confounding. Well-designed studies with sufficient statistical power to evaluate risks of VTE with POC are warranted. Language: English Keywords: SWEDEN | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS, PROGESTIN | PROGESTERONE | THROMBOEMBOLISM | RISK FACTORS | KNOWLEDGE | Europe, Northern | Europe | Developed Countries | Public Health | Health | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Contraception | Family Planning | Progestational Hormones | Hormones | Endocrine System | Physiology | Biology | Embolism | Vascular Diseases | Diseases | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 329655 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: How does gestational diabetes affect postpartum contraception in nondiabetic primiparous women? Author: Beydoun HA; Beydoun MA; Tamim H Source: Contraception. 2009 Apr;79(4):290-6. Abstract: BACKGROUND: The aim of the study is to explore the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on postpartum contraception among nondiabetic primiparous women. STUDY DESIGN: Secondary analyses of 2004-2005 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data from Michigan and Oregon. METHODS: Analyses were performed on 2332 women, taking complex survey design into consideration. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (cOR; aOR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were obtained using logistic regression analyses. RESULTS: Postpartum use of hormonal (aOR=1.12, 95% CI: 0.68-1.83) and nonhormonal (aOR=1.18, 95% CI: 0.73-1.92) contraception were not influenced by GDM after controlling for confounders. Female sterilization was more frequently adopted (cOR=4.99, 95% CI: 1.13-22.17) and depomedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) (cOR=0.53, 95% CI: 0.23-1.18), diaphragm/cervical cap/sponge (cOR=0.13, 95% CI: 0.016-0.95) and cervical ring (cOR=0.13, 95% CI: 0.017-0.98) were less frequently adopted by women reporting GDM diagnosis. CONCLUSION: With few exceptions, GDM does not appear to affect postpartum hormonal and nonhormonal contraception. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | DIABETES | PARITY | CONTRACEPTION | POSTPARTUM | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Public Health | Health | Diseases | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Family Planning | Puerperium | Reproduction Document Number: 330558 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Behavioral mechanisms in HIV epidemiology and prevention: past, present, and future roles. Author: Bingenheimer JB; Geronimus AT Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Sep;40(3):187-204. Abstract: In the 1980’s behavioral variations across geographically and socially defined populations were the central focus of AIDS research, and behavior change was seen as the primary means of controlling HIV epidemics. Today, biological mechanisms-especially other sexually transmitted infections, antiretroviral therapy, and male circumcision-predominate in HIV epidemiology and prevention. We describe several reasons for this shift in emphasis. Although the shift is understandable, we argue for a sustained focus on behavioral mechanisms in HIV research in order to realize the theoretical promise of interventions targeting the biological aspects of HIV risk. We also provide evidence to suggest that large reductions in HIV prevalence may be accomplished by small changes in behavior. Moreover, we contend that behavioral mechanisms will find their proper place in HIV epidemiology and prevention only when investigators adopt a conceptual model that treats prevalence as a determinant as well as an outcome of behavior and that explicitly recognizes the dynamic interdependence between behavior and other epidemiological and demographic parameters. Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | BEHAVIOR CHANGE | HIV INFECTIONS | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | HIV PREVENTION | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | MALE CIRCUMCISION | Africa | Developing Countries | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | HIV | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 339701 |
| 12. Title: Oral contraceptives and colorectal cancer risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Author: Bosetti C; Bravi F; Negri E; La Vecchia C Source: Human Reproduction Update. 2009 May 4;1(1):1-10. Abstract: BACKGROUND Various studies have reported an inverse relation between oral contraceptive (OC) use and the risk of colorectal cancer, but the issue is still open. METHODS In order to quantify the association between OC use and colorectal cancer risk, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on this issue. We identified all relevant studies published, in English, as original articles up to December 2008 through a search of the literature using PubMed and EMBASE, and by reviewing the references from the retrieved articles. RESULTS The summary relative risk of colorectal cancer for ever versus never OC use was 0.82 (95% confidence interval, CI, 0.69-0.97) from 11 case-control studies, 0.81 (95% CI, 0.75-0.89) from seven cohort studies, and 0.81 (95% CI, 0.72-0.92) from all studies combined. The results were similar for colon and rectal cancer. No difference was evident according to duration of OC use both for colon and rectal cancer, although there is an indication that the protection is stronger for more recent use (OR = 0.70, 95% CI, 0.53-0.90, on the basis of four studies). CONCLUSION Epidemiological data consistently indicate that OC users have a reduced risk of colorectal cancer, and that the protection is greater for recent use in the absence, however, of a duration-risk relation. Language: English Keywords: ITALY | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | RISK FACTORS | CANCER | Developed Countries | Europe, Southern | Europe | Public Health | Health | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Neoplasms | Diseases Document Number: 341045 |
| 13. Title: The abortion-breast cancer connection. Author: Brind J Source: Specialty Law Digest. Health Care Law. 2009 Jan;(340):9-35. Abstract: This article examines the abortion breast cancer link in some historical scientific detail, offering a perspective on an issue that is at the center of a long-running public policy debate that plays out in legislatures, courtrooms, and newspaper editorials, as well as in scientific and medical journals. Even as politically correct studies have been promulgated to neutralize the data proving the abortion breast cancer link, even stronger data have emerged in recent years that firmly link abortion to premature births in subsequent pregnancies, which in turn raise the risk of breast cancer in mothers and cerebral palsy in prematurely born children. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | RESEARCH ACTIVITIES | ABORTION | BREAST CANCER | RISK FACTORS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HORMONES | PREMATURE BIRTH | POLITICAL FACTORS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Cancer | Neoplasms | Diseases | Health | Public Health | Endocrine System | Physiology | Biology | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341317 |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: The national response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Peru: accomplishments and gaps--a review. Author: Caceres CF; Mendoza W Source: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. 2009 May 1;51 Suppl 1:S60-6. Abstract: In Peru, after the first case of AIDS was reported in 1983, nearly 20,000 AIDS cases have been notified to date and between 20,000 and 79,000 persons are estimated to be living with HIV. Despite a relatively low HIV prevalence in the general population, the epidemic has importantly mobilized social actors and economic resources and has helped articulate a very active field within the Peruvian health sector. In recent years, the country has become the largest recipient of HIV funding from the Global Fund for AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria in Latin America, for which a substantial national counterpart has been committed. Peru's predictable selection as one of the 12 focal countries for the 5-year impact evaluation of the Global Fund suggested that an analysis of the response to the HIV epidemic in Peru may provide significant lessons on the possibilities of international aid in the AIDS field, particularly in the Latin American context. This article presents an analysis of the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and the nature of the response articulated by the State and civil society in Peru, based on the Universal Access Principles proposed by World Health Organization, UNAIDS, and others. Relying on a number of recent secondary sources, we focus not only on the impact of the epidemic on morbidity and death but also on the changes in society as a whole, particularly in social movements and their dynamic relationship with the State. We start with an epidemiological overview and move to describe the role of social actors in response to the epidemic and then propose a framework for the analysis of the scope and limitations of the national response and elaborate on potential courses of action that may lead to strengthen accomplishments and resolve remaining gaps. Language: English Keywords: PERU | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | MORBIDITY | DEATH RATE | HEALTH POLICY | PUBLIC HEALTH | EPIDEMIOLOGY | EVALUATION | Developing Countries | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Measurement | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health Document Number: 341319 |
| 15. 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 |
| 16. Peer Reviewed Title: Integration of STI and HIV prevention, care, and treatment into family planning services: a review of the literature. Author: Church K; Mayhew SH Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Sep;40(3):171-186. Abstract: The last comprehensive literature review to examine the effectiveness of family planning (FP) services in delivering STI and HIV prevention and care was published in 2000. This review updates that report by examining evidence of the impact of integrating any components of STI or HIV prevention, care, and treatment into a family planning setting in developing countries. Forty-four reports were identified from a comprehensive search of published databases and ‘grey literature.’ The weight of evidence demonstrates that integrated services can have a positive impact on client satisfaction, improve access to component services, and reduce clinic-based HIV-related stigma, and that they are cost-effective. Evidence of FP services reaching men and adolescents and of their impact on health outcomes is inconclusive. Several studies found that providers frequently miss opportunities to integrate care and that the capacity to maintain the quality of care is also influenced by many programmatic challenges. The range of experiences indicates that managers need to determine appropriate health-care service-delivery models based on a consideration of epidemiological, structural, and health-systems factors. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | LITERATURE REVIEW | EPIDEMIOLOGY | FAMILY PLANNING | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | HIV INFECTIONS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | TREATMENT | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | Public Health | Health | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Viral Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 339700 |
| 17. Title: HIV / AIDs in Namibia: Behavioral and contextual factors driving the epidemic. Author: de la Torre C; Khan S; Eckert E; Luna J; Koppenhaver T Source: [Windhoek], Namibia, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center, MEASURE Evaluation, 2009 May. [98] p. (SR-09-53USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00) Abstract: This report identifies and describes what current evidence indicates are the main behavioral and contextual factors that are driving the HIV epidemic in Namibia. The report is intended to assist in the development of a national prevention strategy for combating the HIV / AIDS epidemic. Data from several sources are triangulated to assess which factors are most likely to contribute to the spread of HIV across the population. In the absence of a national seroprevalence survey, the following were examined to identify the main drivers of the Namibian HIV epidemic: 1. The prevalence, distribution, and trends over time of proximate determinants of HIV infection within Namibia (obtained from an analysis of the Namibia Demographic and Health Surveys [NDHS] and other local surveys); 2. Socio-demographic factors associated with HIV infection among clients who were tested for HIV in select New Start voluntary counseling and testing (VCT) facilities throughout Namibia (obtained from analysis of these data); 3. The findings and conclusions of other researchers who have investigated various aspects of HIV / AIDS vulnerability in Namibia; 4. Factors most associated with HIV infection in neighboring countries, and in other generalized epidemics for which representative HIV prevalence surveys exist. A number of factors are likely contributing to the high levels of HIV in Namibia. As described in this report, these various factors are often inter-related and operate in unison to create one of the worst HIV epidemics in the world. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NAMIBIA | TECHNICAL REPORT | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | EPIDEMICS | PREVALENCE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | SEX BEHAVIOR | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | MALE CIRCUMCISION | PERCEPTION | CONDOM USE | MIGRATION | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Behavior | Psychological Factors | Risk Reduction Behavior | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 331841 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: The epidemiology of human immunodeficiency virus infection, sexually transmitted infections, and associated risk behaviors among men who have sex with men in the Mekong Subregion and China: implications for policy and programming. Author: de Lind van Wijngaarden JW; Brown T; Girault P; Sarkar S; van Griensven F Source: Sexually Transmitted Diseases. 2009 May;36(5):319-24. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Little systematic knowledge is available regarding risk behaviors and the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STI) in populations of men having sex with men (MSM) in the Mekong Subregion and China. METHODS: Data on HIV/STI prevalence and risk behavior of MSM in the region were collected through Internet searches, were summarized and assessed for their policy and programming implications. RESULTS: Twenty-four articles, reports and abstracts of research studies were identified for review. High levels of HIV, STI and associated risk behavior were reported among MSM throughout the region. The HIV prevalence among MSM in urban areas varied between 5.5% and 28.3% in Thailand and Cambodia and between 0.0% and 9.4% in Vietnam and China. No HIV/STI prevalence data were available for Lao PDR and Myanmar. CONCLUSION: Levels of HIV/STI prevalence and risk behavior among MSM in the Mekong Subregion and China are high. Continued monitoring and surveillance and targeted preventive interventions are necessary to stop the spread of HIV in this vulnerable population. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | VIETNAM | LAOS | CAMBODIA | MYANMAR | THAILAND | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA AGGREGATION | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | HIV INFECTIONS | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | PREVALENCE | SEX BEHAVIOR | EPIDEMIOLOGY | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Research Methodology | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Measurement | Public Health | Health Document Number: 341442 |
| 19. Peer Reviewed Title: On the origin of South America HIV-1 C epidemic [letter] Author: de Macedo Brigido LF Source: AIDS. 2009 Feb 20;23(4):543-4. Abstract: In a recent AIDS issue, two articles present sequence analysis to trace the origin of HIV-1 clade C in South America. The authors correctly point out that the density of clade C infection in south Brazil and its phylogenetic relationship to most isolates observed elsewhere in South America places south Brazil as its probable origin. When tracing the origin of the C viruses circulating in Brazil, both groups focused on phylogenic relationships of available/analyzable material. Although reported in the Epidemiology/Social sector, the authors disconnect their findings to potential social and cultural determinants of HIV dissemination, factors that may actually have played a major role in the introduction of HIV-1 clade C in Brazil. Although the precise African origin of the variant is not known, it was first observed in Ethiopia, but it is observed, along with other variants, in many countries of central and east Africa. It is conceivable that the variant migrated southwards through highland areas (including Burundi and Kenya, the putative origin, ascribed by each group, to the South America and Brazilian clade C epidemic) to dominate the epidemic in the south of the continent. Mozambique is one of the countries in the south of Africa where clade C is predominant. In 1975, Mozambique declared its independence from Portugal and Frelimo, a left-oriented liberation movement, took hold of the government. Its support to liberation movements at South Africa and Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) resulted in an armed rebel movement supported by the white-ruled neighboring countries, causing a civil war that was associated with an exodus of most of the Portuguese community and Mozambicans of Portuguese heritage. Brazil, a former Portuguese colony, has a large community of Portuguese descendants, a fact that may have facilitate a temporary or permanent destiny for some of these emigrants. According to the official Brazilian demographic data center (IBGE), the number of conceded residency for Portuguese nationals surged five-fold in 1975, returning to 1974 levels by 1981. In some areas of the south of Brazil, as in the coast of the state of Santa Catarina, Portuguese descendents are specially noted. Coincidentally, this area includes cities with the highest proportions of clade C infection. Available molecular data may not provide sufficient support for a direct link of the two epidemics and, apart from a threonine at codon 12, most amino acid signatures listed by Bello et al. [1] are not commonly observed among Mozambique sequences available at GenBank. However, these isolates are recent (1999-2004) and may not reflect the variants circulating in late 1970s. An evolving virus in distinct ethnic groups may make the task of tracing its origins and evolution difficult, especially when based exclusively on available, most of the time fragmental, sequence information. The relationship of Mozambique to Brazil, through a 'Portuguese connection', placed the area as the most feasible origin for the Brazilian clade C epidemic. Social and cultural determinants and tangibility of potential routes of dissemination should be incorporated into these studies to allow a more precise picture of HIV epidemic dynamics. (full-text) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AMERICA | BRAZIL | AFRICA | CRITIQUE | HISTORICAL REVIEW | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | GENETIC TECHNIQUES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV TRANSMISSION | EPIDEMIOLOGY | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | CULTURE | GENETICS | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | Research Methodology | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Public Health | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Biology Document Number: 341168 |
| 20. Title: [The statement of Polish Gynecological Society experts on oral use of contraceptive 75 microg desogestrel minipill in different clinical cases--state of art in 2008] Stanowisko Zespolu Ekspertow Polskiego Towarzystwa Ginekologicznego dotyczace Author: Debski R; Kotarski J; Paszkowski T; Pawelczyk L; Skrzypulec V; Tomaszewski J Source: Ginekologia Polska. 2009 Jan;80(1):63-75. Abstract: Recent epidemiologic studies indicate that use of combined oral contraception is associated with a increase in the incidence of cardiovascular disease (venous thromboembolism, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction and stroke). The risk of cardiovascular disease is strongly related to estrogen dose, progestogen type and other factors for example thrombogenic mutations and cigarette smoking among female over age 35. The progestogen only contraception is safe alternative to combined hormonal contraception. Progestogen only pill (POP) has different levels of action (local and/or central) which may vary from one drug to another. As for the cardiovascular disease risk, progestogens are not considered to be risk factors. Desogestrel containing POP is advised in the following cases: bad tolerance of exogenous oestrogens; in order to counteract an endogenous hyperoestrogenosis; medical, metabolic or cardiovascular contraindications to estroprogestogen contraception. Lastly, POP should be used as a prime contraception in some particular situations (breast feeding, endometriosis, adenomyosis, cigarette smoking, contraception for older women). These recommendations present the actual system of care in that population of women in Poland. Language: Polish Keywords: POLAND | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EPIDEMIOLOGY | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, COMBINED | CONTRACEPTIVE AGENTS, PROGESTIN | PROGESTERONE | CONTRACEPTIVE SAFETY | Developing Countries | Europe, Central | Europe | Research Methodology | Public Health | Health | Oral Contraceptives | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Progestational Hormones | Hormones | Endocrine System | Physiology | Biology | Safety Document Number: 330922 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV vaccine preparedness studies in the non-organization for economic co-operation and development (non-OECD) countries. Author: Dhalla S; Nelson KE; Singer J; Poole G Source: AIDS Care. 2009 Mar;21(3):335-48. Abstract: HIV vaccine development remains an urgent priority. Vaccine preparedness studies to assess feasibility are an important precursor to HIV vaccine trials. Studies such as these have taken place in many non-Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (non-OECD) countries using diverse cohorts. This article is a systematic review of retention rates and willingness to participate (WTP) in HIV vaccine trials. Studies took place in Brazil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Haiti, India, Russia, Thailand, and several sub-Saharan African countries. Studies generally reported recruitment of high-risk individuals. Of 33 studies we identified, retention was assessed in 16 studies, and the 12-month retention ranged from 77 to 85%. Willingness to participate was assessed in 21 studies. Willingness to participate ranged from 23 to 100%, and increased knowledge was associated with an increased WTP. Vaccine preparedness studies have taken place using diverse cohorts in the non-OECD countries. In general, retention rates and WTP have been adequate to conduct HIV vaccine trials. Educational programs to improve knowledge about HIV vaccines may contribute to better follow-up and an increased WTP in these countries. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | LITERATURE REVIEW | CLINICAL TRIALS | RESEARCH ACTIVITIES | HIV PREVENTION | VACCINES | EPIDEMIOLOGY | PARTICIPATION | MOTIVATION | OBSTACLES | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health | Social Behavior | Behavior | Psychological Factors | Organization and Administration Document Number: 341856 |
| 22. 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 |
| 23. Title: Infodemiology and infoveillance: Framework for an emerging set of public health informatics methods to analyze search, communication and publication behavior on the Internet [editorial] Author: Eysenbach G Source: Journal of Medical Internet Research. 2009;11(1):e11. Abstract: Infodemiology can be defined as the science of distribution and determinants of information in an electronic medium, specifically the Internet, or in a population, with the ultimate aim to inform public health and public policy. Infodemiology data can be collected and analyzed in near real time. Examples for infodemiology applications include: the analysis of queries from Internet search engines to predict disease outbreaks (eg. influenza); monitoring peoples' status updates on microblogs such as Twitter for syndromic surveillance; detecting and quantifying disparities in health information availability; identifying and monitoring of public health relevant publications on the Internet (eg. anti-vaccination sites, but also news articles or expert-curated outbreak reports); automated tools to measure information diffusion and knowledge translation, and tracking the effectiveness of health marketing campaigns. Moreover, analyzing how people search and navigate the Internet for health-related information, as well as how they communicate and share this information, can provide valuable insights into health-related behavior of populations. Seven years after the infodemiology concept was first introduced, this paper revisits the emerging fields of infodemiology and infoveillance and proposes an expanded framework, introducing some basic metrics such as information prevalence, concept occurrence ratios, and information incidence. The framework distinguishes supply-based applications (analyzing what is being published on the Internet, eg. on Web sites, newsgroups, blogs, microblogs and social media) from demand-based methods (search and navigation behavior), and further distinguishes passive from active infoveillance methods. Infodemiology metrics follow population health relevant events or predict them. Thus, these metrics and methods are potentially useful for public health practice and research, and should be further developed and standardized. (Author's abstract) Language: English Keywords: CANADA | CRITIQUE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS | INTERNET | INFLUENZA | MONITORING | COMMUNICATION | PUBLIC HEALTH | Developed Countries | North America, Northern | Americas | Health | Data Storage and Retrieval | Information Processing | Information | Information Networks | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Evaluation Document Number: 331416 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Oral contraceptives and family history of breast cancer. Author: Gaffield ME; Culwell KR; Ravi A Source: Contraception. 2009 Oct;80(4):372-80. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Questions remain regarding whether oral contraceptive (OC) use among women with a family history of breast cancer increases disease risk. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a systematic review by searching MEDLINE and CENTRAL databases for evidence (in all languages) published in peer-reviewed journals from 1966 to July 2008 that provided estimates of breast cancer risk according to family history. Twelve articles were identified and the quality of each study was assessed using the United States Preventive Services Task Force grading system. RESULTS: Results from 10 studies and one pooled analysis of 54 studies suggest that the use of OCs does not significantly modify the risk of breast cancer among women with a familial history of breast cancer; however, evidence from four studies shows that some women may be at a greater risk, particularly women who took OCs prior to 1975. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence shows that women with a family history of breast cancer do not increase their disease risk by using OCs. Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | BREAST CANCER | HEREDITY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Public Health | Health | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Cancer | Neoplasms | Diseases | Biology Document Number: 342769 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: A framework of sexual partnerships: Risks and implications for HIV prevention in Africa. Author: Green EC; Mah TL; Ruark A; Hearst N Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):63-70. Abstract: The global diversity of HIV epidemics can be explained in part by types and patterns of sexual partnerships. We offer a typology of sexual partnerships that corresponds to varying levels of HIVtransmission risk to help guide thinking about appropriate behavioral interventions, particularly in the epidemics of sub-Saharan Africa. Declines in HIV prevalence have been associated with reductions in numbers of sex partners, whereas many other prevention strategies have not been demonstrated to reduce HIV transmission at a population level. We suggest a reorientation of current prevention efforts, based on the epidemiology of sexually transmitted HIV epidemics and trends in sexual behavior change. Concurrent sexual partnerships are likely to play a large role in transmission dynamics in the generalized epidemics of East and Southern Africa, and should be addressed through improved behavior-change interventions. Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | CLASSIFICATION | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | SEXUAL PARTNERS | MULTIPLE PARTNERS | HIV PREVENTION | RISK ASSESSMENT | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | EPIDEMIOLOGY | SEX BEHAVIOR | SAFER SEX | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Behavior | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Evaluation | Communication Programs | Communication | Behavior Change | Public Health | Health | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341082 |
| 26. Title: Monitoring HIV epidemics: declines in prevalence do not always mean good news [editorial] Author: Hallett T Source: AIDS. 2009 Jan 2;23(1):131-2. Abstract: The future of HIV epidemic monitoring is likely to rely on HIV prevalence for many years to come. After years of intensive research, direct measurements of incidence in local cohort studies are becoming less and less representative of whole countries, and assays that discriminate recent infections in cross-sectional serosurveys have been shown to be unreliable in African countries without calibration. Antiretroviral therapy will add a further layer of complexity, as longer survival times will tend to increase HIV prevalence; so that upturns in epidemics may not indicate increased risk behaviour, and stable prevalence rates could mask substantial reductions in incidence. It will, therefore, be essential to make maximum use of mathematical modelling in the interpretation of trends in HIV prevalence. To be conservative and defensible, these modelsmust reasonably account for all other potential sources of natural changes in epidemics, so that the contribution of actual reductions in risk-if any-can be resolved. And only from that starting point, can the important investigations into the proximal and distal causes and reasons for the behaviour changes begin. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | EVALUATION INDEXES | COHORT ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PREVALENCE | MONITORING | HIV INFECTIONS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | EPIDEMICS | RELIABILITY | VALIDITY | ERROR SOURCES | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Public Health | Health Document Number: 330256 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Burden of syphilis infections in Shenzhen, China: a preliminary estimation. Author: Hong FC; Feng TJ; Cai YM; Wen LZ; Pan P; Lan LN; Lai YH; Zhou H; Liu XL; Lin SP; Chen G; Chen XS Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS. 2009 Feb;20(2):115-8. Abstract: Information on the prevalence and incidence of sexually transmitted infections is important for developing prevention and control strategies and allocating human and financial resources. However, there are no available estimates of such information for many areas in China. In this study, we used the existing data to make a preliminary estimation of syphilis infections in Shenzhen city, in south-eastern China. Data on prevalence rates of syphilis infections among different populations were obtained from the local HIV/sexually transmitted disease second-generation surveillance programme, and the sizes of different populations were estimated based on the most recently available figures. It was estimated that 83,760 (range 77,490-90,020) people are currently infected with syphilis, giving a prevalence of 0.71-0.82% (0.76% on average) in Shenzhen. Around 18% of these syphilis infections occur among men who have sex with men and another 15.8% and 8.7% occur among female sex workers and their clients, respectively. These estimates suggest that a combination of unprotected paid sex and sex between men may be sustaining the epidemic of syphilis in the study area. The preliminary estimates will assist the government in planning and improving its comprehensive intervention programmes for the future control and prevention of syphilis. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | PREVALENCE | INCIDENCE | SYPHILIS | PROGRAM DESIGN | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Public Health | Health | Measurement | Research Methodology | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 331170 |
| 28. Title: Strong association between birth month and reproductive performance of Vietnamese women. Author: Huber S; Fieder M Source: American Journal of Human Biology. 2009 Jan-Feb;21(1):25-35. Abstract: Epidemiological studies on premodern and modern Western societies indicate that birth season may influence female reproduction. Nothing is known, however, about this effect in developing economies. Many of the latter are characterised by tropical climates with a rainy season associated with lower food availability and a greater prevalence of infectious diseases. We therefore predict that an association between birth month and reproductive output, if it exists, should be related to the rainy season. To test this prediction, we analysed census data of Vietnam obtained from IPUMS-International (Vietnam 1999 Population and Housing Census). Based on 493,853 women born between 1950 and 1977 and thus aged 22 to 49 years, we found that the time series of mean offspring count per month of birth has a highly significant period of 12 months (power = 46.871, P < 0.00001). Our results further indicate that the 12-month periodic signal has a maximum in July and a minimum in January. Accordingly, the peak corresponds to birth during the rainy season, the low if the third pregnancy month concurs with the rainy season. The month of birth is therefore clearly associated with the later reproductive performance of Vietnamese women, strongly supporting the assumption that environmental and maternal conditions during early development exert long-term effects on reproductive functioning. Provided the rainy season adversely affects developmental processes due to inadequate food and/or high infection risk, the association reported here points to a critical period of reproductive development during early pregnancy. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | CENSUS | WOMEN | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | TIME FACTORS | SEASONAL VARIATION | CLIMATE | CHILDBIRTH | FOOD SECURITY | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Public Health | Health | Population Statistics | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Environment | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Food Supply | Natural Resources Document Number: 330492 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: Endemic measles in Karachi, Pakistan and validation of IMCI criteria for measles. Author: Hussain H; Omer SB; Khan AJ; Bhurgri A; Memon A; Halsey NA Source: Acta Paediatrica. 2009 Apr;98(4):720-4. Abstract: AIM: To estimate the incidence of measles in Karachi, Pakistan and to determine the proportion of children with measles based on the WHO integrated management of childhood illness (IMCI) criteria with a positive IgM for measles or dengue. METHODS: Patients up to 14 years old were screened for febrile rash illnesses at five Karachi hospitals. Active measles cases were classified as measles, measles with eye and mouth complications, or severe complicated measles using IMCI criteria. RESULTS: Screening 1,219,061 patients over a 39-month period identified 3503 qualified children. Most (76.8%) measles cases occurred in children under five years of age. The average annual incidence rate was 0.68 per 1000 in year 1; 0.19 in year 2 and 0.08 in year 3 of surveillance. Pneumonia and diarrhoea were the most common complications. Of 18.1% hospitalized, 1.6% died. Of 2286 children tested, 1599 (69.9%) were measles IgM positive. Of 542 measles IgM negative children, 66 (12%) were dengue IgM positive. The predictive positive value for the IMCI case definition was 75%. CONCLUSION: The IMCI case definitions for measles is reasonable but may overestimate measles incidence. Measles continues to be a public health problem in Pakistan; increased efforts to control measles are urgently needed. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | VALIDITY | INCIDENCE | MEASLES | MANAGEMENT | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Public Health | Health | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organization and Administration | Programs Document Number: 342103 |
| 30. Title: Association between distance to HIV testing site and uptake of HIV testing for tuberculosis patients in Cambodia. Author: Kanara N; Cain KP; Chhum V; Eng B; Kim S; Keo S; Heller TA; Varma JK Source: International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease. 2009 Feb;13(2):226-31. Abstract: SETTING: Banteay Meanchey Province, Cambodia. OBJECTIVE: Cambodia has the highest incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in Asia. Not all TB patients are tested for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We assessed the association between distance to HIV testing facility and HIV testing rates. METHODS: We analyzed data on TB patients from 11 clinics to determine the proportion tested for HIV infection. We categorized each TB clinic as having a voluntary confidential counseling and testing (VCCT) center onsite, or being at <15 min, 15-30 min or >30 min driving distance to the nearest VCCT. RESULTS: Of 1017 TB patients not previously tested for HIV, 708 (70%) were tested. Of 481 TB patients without onsite VCCT, 297 (62%) were tested, compared to 410 (77%) of 535 TB patients with onsite VCCT (RR 0.6, 95%CI 0.5-0.7). When the VCCT site was >15 min from the TB clinic, HIV testing occurred only half as frequently as when onsite VCCT was available. CONCLUSION: TB patients treated at clinics without onsite or nearby HIV testing are less commonly tested for HIV infection. Making HIV testing available to TB patients without the necessity of traveling to a distant HIV testing site is likely to increase HIV testing rates. Language: English Keywords: CAMBODIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGY | CLIENTS | HIV TESTING | TUBERCULOSIS | HIV INFECTIONS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Public Health | Health | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Infections | Diseases | Viral Diseases Document Number: 330745 |
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