Inmagic CS/WebPublisher PRO found 3048 records

Your search found 3048 record(s).
New Basic Search | New Advanced Search | POPLINE Document Delivery Policy

Title: The U.S. commitment to global health: Recommendations for the public and private sectors.
Author: Institute of Medicine. Committee on the U.S. Commitment to Global Health
Source: Washington, D.C., Institute of Medicine, 2009 May. 4 p. (Report Brief)
Abstract: In 2008, the Institute of Medicine convened the expert Committee on the U.S. Commitment to Global Health to investigate the U.S. commitment to global health and to articulate a vision for future U.S. investments in this arena. The committee concludes that the U.S. government and U.S.-based commercial entities, foundations, universities, and other nonprofit organizations have an opportunity to improve global health. The committee initially issued an interim report with recommendations aimed specifically at the U.S. government, such as prioritizing global health as a pillar of foreign policy. This subsequent report addresses other sectors as well as government. The committee identifies five areas for action by the interdisciplinary team: 1. Scale-up existing interventions to achieve significant health gains; 2. Generate and share knowledge to address problems prevalent in poor countries; 3. Invest in people, institutions, and capacity building with global partners; 4. Increase U.S. financial commitments to global health; 5. Set the example of engaging in respectful partnerships. (Excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | RECOMMENDATIONS | GOVERNMENT | ORGANIZATIONS | PRIVATE SECTOR | HEALTH | FOREIGN AID | CAPACITY BUILDING | KNOWLEDGE | LEADERSHIP | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Financial Activities | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 331419

Subscription may be needed for full text

Title: Systematic analysis of research underfunding in maternal and perinatal health.
Author: Fisk NM; Atun R
Source: BJOG. 2009 Feb;116(3):347-56.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Little published evidence supports the widely held contention that research in pregnancy is underfunded compared with other disease areas. OBJECTIVES: To assess absolute and relative government and charitable funding for maternal and perinatal research in the UK and internationally. SEARCH STRATEGY, SELECTION CRITERIA, DATA COLLECTION, AND ANALYSIS: Major research funding bodies and alliances were identified from an Internet search and discussions with opinion leaders/senior investigators. Websites and annual reports were reviewed for details of strategy, research spend, grants awarded, and allocation to maternal and/or perinatal disease using generic and disease-specific search terms. MAIN RESULTS: Within the imprecision in the data sets, < or =1% of health research spend in the UK was on maternal/perinatal health. Other countries fared better with 1-4% investment, although nonexclusive categorisation may render this an overestimate. In low-resource settings, government funders focused on infectious disease but not maternal and perinatal health despite high relative disease burden, while global philanthropy concentrated on service provision rather than research. Although research expenditure has been deemed as appropriate for 'reproductive health' disease burden in the UK, there are no data on the equity of maternal/perinatal research spend against disease burden, which globally may justify a manyfold increase. AUTHOR'S CONCLUSIONS: This systematic review of research expenditure and priorities from national and international funding bodies suggests relative underinvestment in maternal/perinatal health. Contributing factors include the low political priority given to women's health, the challenging nature of clinical research in pregnancy, and research capacity dearth as a consequence of chronic underinvestment.
Language: English
Keywords:
UNITED KINGDOM | LITERATURE REVIEW | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | CHILDBIRTH | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | ECONOMIC FACTORS | PREGNANCY | GRANTS | RESEARCH ACTIVITIES | EXPENDITURES | Developed Countries | Europe, Western | Europe | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Organizations | Pregnancy Outcomes | Reproduction | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Research Methodology
Document Number: 331089

Title: Epidemiology of HIV in southern Africa.
Author: Zanoni BC
Source: Pediatric Radiology. 2009 Jun;39(6):538-40.
Abstract: HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects sub-Saharan Africa and 90% of the children with HIV are found there. In addition, non-HIV-infected children in the region are also vulnerable with an estimated 11.4 million AIDS orphans (many of whom are also HIV-positive). South Africa has an estimated 5.5 million people infected with HIV, which is by far the highest in the world. South Africa was reluctant to accept international assistance and began to provide care and treatment much later than its neighbours, and access to care and treatment remains low. Only 36% of children with advanced AIDS living in South Africa were receiving antiretroviral drugs in 2007. This paper not only provides data expressing the extent of the HIV problem affecting children, but also compares neighbouring African countries' successes and failures in combating the disease.
Language: English
Keywords:
AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | SOUTH AFRICA | BOTSWANA | CRITIQUE | GOVERNMENT | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | EPIDEMIOLOGY | PREVALENCE | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | MORTALITY | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | Africa | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Public Health | Health | Measurement | Research Methodology | HIV | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control
Document Number: 342186

5.
Peer Reviewed

Title: Report of the Intergovernmental Conference of Far-Eastern Countries on Rural Hygiene.
Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Jan;98(1):40-42.
Abstract: While it is obvious that attention to the problem of rural populations has been an important consideration of Governments for many years, it is evident that, since the Great War. the people of many countries and their Governments realize more strongly than ever that that part of the population living on the land and producing the essential foodstuffs for all has been too often neglected. Governments are realizing more and more their obligations in this matter, and programs working toward the bettering of the social, economic, health and cultural conditions of the country-dwellers are becoming more general and more comprehensive. This present Conference had brought together Governmental representatives from the important countries of the East. The group includes: medical men concerned with curative and preventive medical services, educators, agronomists, specialists in rural reconstruction, sanitary engineers, experts in nutrition, and investigators who are devoting their attention to specific diseases. Statesmen and members of the legal profession who are concerned primarily with administrative duties are also to be found in the group. The development of rural programs reveals, in many instances, that the best results are to be obtained when the different welfare activities are planned and executed simultaneously by a trained staff. The interrelations of the work of the various groups have become more patent, and success in its broad lines rests on a realization of the interdependence of the work of all concerned. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
ASIA | SUMMARY REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | POPULATION | RURAL AREAS | GOVERNMENT | HEALTH SERVICES | EDUCATION | MALARIA PREVENTION | PUBLIC HEALTH | NUTRITION | HYGIENE | Developing Countries | Geographic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases
Document Number: 323107

Title: Using national resources to finance contraceptive procurement. Policy brief.
Author: John Snow [JSI]. DELIVER
Source: Arlington, Virginia, JSI, DELIVER, [2008]. [9] p. (Policy Brief)
Abstract: Driven by the increasing demand for and popularity of family planning, increasing population size, and changing demographics with more couples entering their fertile years, the financing requirement for contraceptives has become increasingly onerous. Strategies to finance contraceptives include expansion of the donor base; increased use of cost recovery, including revolving drug funds; greater use of the private sector; and direct government financing of contraceptive procurement. None of these is mutually exclusive, and to ensure contraceptive security, most countries are likely to use some or all of these approaches, and many others. Evidence suggests that many governments are beginning to finance contraceptive procurement using national resources, but limited data are publicly available regarding the global extent of this financing. This brief details the findings of a survey of the extent to which national governments of developing countries are using national resources to finance contraceptive procurement. The brief examines the different types of financing used, some of the benefits of this type of financing, and some of the issues it raises. Hopefully, this study can be repeated to track spending and will spur more rigorous efforts to measure this practice. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | GOVERNMENT PUBLICATION | SURVEYS | GOVERNMENT | USAID | LOGISTICS | CONTRACEPTIVE DISTRIBUTION | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | WORLD BANK | FOREIGN AID | FUNDS | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Government Agencies | Organizations | Management | Organization and Administration | Distributional Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | International Agencies
Document Number: 326278

Title: Rehabilitation under fire: Health care in Iraq 2003-7.
Author: Medact
Source: London, United Kingdom, Medact, 2008. [16] p.
Abstract: The report starts with an update on the Iraqi health system and its vulnerability. Five major aspects are then considered: policy, human resources, infrastructure, supplies, and health information. The centre spread summarizes key issues. Although this report does not focus on specific areas of health need, we have made one exception: mental health. This receives less attention than other health issues, yet its long-term impact on a country's future is profound. Finally, we offer conclusions and recommendations. A wide range of data has been reviewed and many people were consulted. Security is a major consideration for those working in and for Iraq today. Some of those whose input shaped this report wish to remain anonymous. Their contributions are as fully appreciated as those from people who are named. We wish to look to the future rather than apportion blame. However, the avoidance of future 'mistakes' requires as a minimum an objective evaluation of why best practice was frequently not followed in Iraq, and in whose interests certain decisions were taken. We hope this report contributes to that evaluation. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
IRAQ | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | CLIENTS | GOVERNMENT | MILITARY PERSONNEL | HEALTH SERVICES | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | MENTAL HEALTH | WAR | EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | Middle East | Developing Countries | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Medical Procedures | Medicine
Document Number: 326031

Title: The U.S. commitment to global health: recommendations for the new administration.
Author: United States. Committee on the U.S. Commitment to Global Health. Board on Global Health
Source: Washington, D.C., The National Academies Press, 2008 Dec 15. [64] p.
Abstract: At this historic moment, the incoming Obama administration and leaders of the U.S. Congress have the opportunity to advance the welfare and prosperity of people within and beyond the borders of the United States through intensified and sustained attention to better health. The United States can improve the lives of millions around the world, while reflecting America's values and protecting and promoting the nation's interests. The Institute of Medicine-with the support of four U.S. government agencies and five private foundations-formed an independent committee to examine the United States' commitment to global health and to articulate a vision for future U.S. investments and activities in this area.
Language: English
Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | GLOBAL | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT | HEALTH POLICY | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | FOREIGN AID | WHO | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | COORDINATION | HEALTH AND WELFARE PLANNING | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Policy | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Health | Social Planning
Document Number: 328213

Title: Trafficking in persons report. Revised ed.
Author: United States. Department of State
Source: Washington, D.C., United States Department of State, Office of the Under Secretary for Democracy and Global Affairs, 2008 Jun. 292 p.
Abstract: The Department of State is required by law to submit a Report each year to the U.S. Congress on foreign governments' efforts to eliminate severe forms of trafficking in persons. This Report is the eighth annual TIP Report. It is intended to raise global awareness, to highlight efforts of the international community, and to encourage foreign governments to take effective actions to counter all forms of trafficking in persons. The U.S. law that guides anti-human trafficking efforts, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000, as amended (TVPA), states that the purpose of combating human trafficking is to punish traffickers, to protect victims, and to prevent trafficking from occurring. Freeing those trapped in slave-like conditions is the ultimate goal of this Report-and of the U.S. government's antihuman trafficking policy. There is an ever-growing community of nations making significant efforts to eliminate this atrocious crime. A country that fails to make significant efforts to bring itself into compliance with the minimum standards for the elimination of trafficking in persons, as outlined in the TVPA, receives a "Tier 3" assessment in this Report. Such an assessment could trigger the withholding by the United States of nonhumanitarian, non-trade-related foreign assistance. In assessing foreign governments' efforts, the TIP Report highlights the "three P's"-prosecution, protection, and prevention. But a victim-centered approach to trafficking requires us also to address the "three R's"-rescue, rehabilitation, and reintegration- and to encourage learning and sharing of best practices in these areas. We must go beyond an initial rescue of victims and restore to them dignity and the hope of productive lives. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
GLOBAL | TECHNICAL REPORT | HUMAN TRAFFICKING | SEXUAL TRAFFICKING | MIGRANT WORKERS | CHILD LABOR | HUMAN RIGHTS | POLICY | GOVERNMENT | LAWS AND STATUTES | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Political Factors
Document Number: 327634

10.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Dangerous medicines: Unproven AIDS cures and counterfeit antiretroviral drugs.
Author: Amon JJ
Source: Globalization and Health. 2008 Feb 27;4:5.
Abstract: Increasing access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a critical goal endorsed by the United Nations and all of its member states. At the same time, anecdotal accounts suggest that the promotion of unproven AIDS 'cures' and remedies are widespread, and in the case of The Gambia, Iran and South Africa, have been promoted by governments directly. Although a range of legislative and regulatory measures have been adopted by some governments, and technical assistance has been provided by international agencies to address counterfeit medicines generally, the threat of counterfeit antiretroviral drugs is not being addressed. Countries, charged with fulfilling the right to health and committed to expanding access to ART must explicitly recognize their obligation to combat unproven AIDS treatments and ensure the availability of a safe and efficacious drugs supply. International donors must help support and coordinate these efforts. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
GAMBIA | IRAN | SOUTH AFRICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | EVALUATION | GOVERNMENT | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | ANTIRETROVIRAL DRUGS | AIDS PREVENTION | CRIME | MARKETING | LEGISLATION | HEALTH POLICY | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Middle East | Africa, Southern | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Organizations | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | AIDS | Social Problems | Economic Factors | Policy
Document Number: 324957

11.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Estimating the relative success of local authorities at labour-market integration of immigrants.
Author: Andersen SH; Heinesen E
Source: European Journal of Population. 2008 Mar;24(1):59-86.
Abstract: We propose a method for estimating indicators of the success of local authorities at integrating immigrants in the labour-market. The proportion of time in employment of individuals is used to measure labour-market integration, and we correct for differences in characteristics of immigrants and local labour markets using a two-limit Tobit model. This method is applied to a large administrative micro dataset which contains information on all immigrants in Denmark. We compare the estimated indicators of integration to corresponding uncorrected measures, and conclude that the corrections have a significant effect on the ranking of local authorities. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
DENMARK | RESEARCH REPORT | ESTIMATION TECHNIQUES | IMMIGRANTS | GOVERNMENT | LABOR FORCE | EMPLOYMENT STATUS | SETTLEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT | ACCULTURATION | Developed Countries | Europe, Northern | Europe | Research Methodology | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Social Change
Document Number: 325285

12.
Title: Prospects for feminism in the Islamic Republic of Iran.
Author: Barlow R; Akbarzadeh S
Source: Human Rights Quarterly. 2008;30:21-40.
Abstract: There is a stark contrast between the level of Iranian women's social and political engagement and what the conservative regime prescribes. The gap between the reality of women's participation in public life and their restricted legal status has emboldened women's groups to campaign for legal reforms. But the Iranian regime has adopted an uncompromising position in relation to such demands. This is seen as an existential matter for the state. As a result, the Islamic regime has adopted a highly intolerant and repressive approach to women's groups. This is most evident in relation to secular-oriented feminists, such as the Nobel Prize Laureate Shirin Ebadi, driving a wedge between the latter and the more religiously-oriented feminists. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
IRAN | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | GOVERNMENT | ISLAM | FEMINISM | POLITICAL FACTORS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | LEGISLATION | WOMEN'S STATUS | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | Developing Countries | Middle East | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Interest Groups | Sociocultural Factors | Religion | Socioeconomic Factors | Human Rights
Document Number: 324454

13.
Title: Women and nation-building.
Author: Benard C; Jones SG; Oliker O; Thurston CQ; Stearns BK
Source: Santa Monica, California, RAND, Center for Middle East Public Policy, 2008. [207] p.
Abstract: The challenge of nation-building, i.e., dealing with the societal and political aftermath of conflicts and putting new governments and new social compacts into place, has occupied much international energy during the past several decades. As an art, a process, and a set of competencies, it is still very much in an ongoing learning and experimentation phase. The RAND Corporation has contributed to the emerging knowledge base in this domain through a series of studies that have looked at notion-building enterprises led by the United States and others that were led by the United Nations and have examined the experiences gained during the reconstruction of specific sectors. Our study focuses on gender and nation-building. It considers this issue from two aspects: First, it examines gender-specific impacts of conflict and post-conflict and the ways in which events in these contexts may affect women differently than they affect men. Second, it analyzes the role of women in the nation-building process, in terms of both actual current practices, as far as these could be measured and ascertained, and possible outcomes that might occur if these practices were to be modified. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | AFGHANISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | RECOMMENDATIONS | CASE STUDIES | DATA COLLECTION | EVALUATION INDEXES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | GOVERNMENT | FEMALE ROLE | WAR | NATIONAL SECURITY | WOMEN'S HEALTH | ECONOMIC FACTORS | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Economic Development | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Health
Document Number: 326013

14.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Changing fortunes: Analysis of fluctuating policy space for family planning in Kenya.
Author: Crichton J
Source: Health Policy and Planning. 2008;23:339-350.
Abstract: Policies relating to contraceptive services (population, family planning and reproductive health policies) often receive weak or fluctuating levels of commitment from national policy elites in Southern countries, leading to slow policy evolution and undermining implementation. This is true of Kenya, despite the government's early progress in committing to population and reproductive health policies, and its success in implementing them during the 1980s. This key informant study on family planning policy in Kenya found that policy space contracted, and then began to expand, because of shifts in contextual factors, and because of the actions of different actors. Policy space contracted during the mid-1990s in the context of weakening prioritization of reproductive health in national and international policy agendas, undermining access to contraceptive services and contributing to the stalling of the country's fertility rates. However, during the mid-2000s, champions of family planning within the Kenyan Government bureaucracy played an important role in expanding the policy space through both public and hidden advocacy activities. The case study demonstrates that policy space analysis can provide useful insights into the dynamics of routine policy and programme evolution and the challenge of sustaining support for issues even after they have reached the policy agenda. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | FAMILY PLANNING | CONTRACEPTION | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | HEALTH POLICY | GOVERNMENT | POLICY DEVELOPMENT | POLITICAL FACTORS | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Sociocultural Factors | Planning | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 327983

15.

Title: International assistance and cooperation in sexual and reproductive health: a human rights responsibility for donors.
Author: de Mesquita JB; Hunt P
Source: Colchester, Essex, United Kingdom, University of Essex, Human Rights Centre, 2008 Dec. 24 p.
Abstract: States' obligations under some international treaties extend beyond their national borders to international assistance and cooperation for human rights, including the rights to sexual and reproductive health, in other countries. This publication focuses on what is expected of donors in the context of this responsibility. It shows how many donors are taking important steps towards fulfilling this duty through measures they are taking to integrate the rights to sexual and reproductive health into their policies and programmes, but also argues that many donors can also do more. The publication concludes with a set of recommendations addressed to donors and their developing country partner governments.
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | DEVELOPED COUNTRIES | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT | HUMAN RIGHTS | FOREIGN AID | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASE PREVENTION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | POLITICAL FACTORS | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | GOALS | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Sociocultural Factors | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Sexually Transmitted Diseases | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Health | Programs | Planning
Document Number: 325207

16.
Peer Reviewed

Title: The prevalence of hepatitis B co-infection in a South African urban government HIV clinic.
Author: Firnhaber C; Reyneke A; Schulze D; Malope B; Maskew M
Source: South African Medical Journal. 2008 Jul;98(7):541-4.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: There are an estimated 350 million hepatitis B carriers worldwide. In South Africa the prevalence of mono-infection with hepatitis B has been estimated to range from 1% in urban areas to approximately 10% in rural areas. The exact prevalence of hepatitis B in the HIV-infected population has not been well established. Hepatitis B screening is not standard practice in government HIV clinics. Co-infection with hepatitis B and HIV can influence antiretroviral treatment and prognosis of both diseases. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of hepatitis B/HIV coinfection. DESIGN: This is believed to be the first prospective observational report on the prevalence of hepatitis B/HIV co-infection in South Africa. Patients on whom hepatitis B serological tests could not have been done previously were recruited from an HIV clinic in a regional hospital in Johannesburg. Standard hepatitis B serological tests were performed. RESULTS: Five hundred and two participants were screened.The cohort's average age was 37 +/- 9 years and the average CD4 count was 128 cells/pi. Twenty-four (4.80%) were hepatitis B surface antigen positive. Nearly half (47%) of the participants showed some evidence of hepatitis B exposure. The risk of hepatitis B co-infection was not significantly different when analysed in terms of sex, race, CD4 count or age. Liver function tests were not a good predictor of hepatitis B infection. CONCLUSION: The rate of hepatitis B infection, as defined by hepatitis B surface antigen positivity in HIV-infected individuals in urban South Africa was 5 times the rate in people who were not HIV-infected. A 5% rate of hepatitis B/HIV co-infection is a reason to increase the accessibility of tenofovir/emtricitabine (Truvada) for first-line treatment for this population.
Language: English
Keywords:
SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | CLINICAL RESEARCH | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | GOVERNMENT | URBAN POPULATION | PREVALENCE | HEPATITIS | COMPLICATIONS | HIV INFECTIONS | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Studies | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Measurement | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health
Document Number: 328508

17.
Title: The political context of AIDS-related stigma and knowledge in a South African township community.
Author: Forsyth B; Vandormael A; Kershaw T; Grobbelaar J
Source: SAHARA J. 2008 Jul;5(2):74-82.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the presentation of AIDS-related stigma and knowledge within the political context of the South African government's response to the AIDS epidemic. It was during the 2000 - 2004 period that key government officials publicly challenged the orthodox views of HIV/AIDS, with the South African president, Thabo Mbeki, actively positing the primary role of poverty and other socio-economic stressors in the progression of the AIDS epidemic. This discursive position had real-time effects for AIDS policy-making and ultimately delayed the implementation of a national antiretroviral (ARV) rollout programme. Consequently this position was criticised by commentators in the media and elsewhere for contributing to an already widespread climate of AIDS stigmatization and misinformation. To shed more light on these claims we conducted a survey in 2005 in Atteridgeville, a South African township, and compared results with those of a similar survey conducted shortly after ARV medications became available in 2004. Results indicated a reduction in AIDS stigma levels across the 1-year period, and that those participants who endorsed contentious political views (such as those expressed by key government officials) were more likely to have a higher level of AIDS-related stigma than those who disagreed. Nevertheless, this study cautions against drawing a causal relationship between the South African government's position and IDS-stigmatizing attitudes, and suggests that further political and social factors be accounted for in an attempt to gain a fuller understanding of this seemingly complex relationship.
Language: English
Keywords:
SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOLLOW-UP STUDIES | GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | GOVERNMENT | STIGMA | AIDS | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | KNOWLEDGE | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | HEALTH POLICY | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | POVERTY | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Social Problems | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Policy | Economic Factors | HIV
Document Number: 329227

18.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Denialism undermines AIDS prevention in sub-Saharan Africa.
Author: Gisselquist D
Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS. 2008 Oct;19(10):649-55.
Abstract: Some denialists, widely reviled, contend that HIV does not cause AIDS. Other denialists, widely respected, contend that HIV transmits so poorly through trace blood exposures that iatrogenic infections are rare. This second group of denialists has had a corrosive effect on public health and HIV programmes in sub-Saharan Africa. Guided by this second group of denialists, no African government has investigated unexplained HIV infections. Denialists have withheld and ignored research findings showing that non-sexual risks account for substantial proportions of HIV infections in Africa. Denialists have promoted invasive procedures for HIV prevention in Africa--injections for sexually transmitted infections, and adult male circumcision--without addressing unreliable sterilization of reused instruments. By denying that health care causes more than rare infections, denialists blame (stigmatize) HIV-positive African adults for causing their own infections through sexual behaviour. Denialism must be overcome to ensure safe health care and to combat HIV-related stigma in Africa.
Language: English
Keywords:
AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | GOVERNMENT | POLICYMAKERS | BELIEFS | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV TRANSMISSION | KNOWLEDGE | BLOOD TRANSFUSION | SURGERY | HIV PREVENTION | MALE CIRCUMCISION | HYGIENE | STIGMA | Africa | Developing Countries | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Culture | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health | Social Problems
Document Number: 329424

19.

Peer Reviewed

Title: China: Policy and practice of MCH since the early 1990s.
Author: Guo Y; Zakus D; Liang H
Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2008 Mar;12(2):139-148.
Abstract: Since the socioeconomic reforms in China in the late 1970s the improvement of maternal and child health (MCH), which was once considered one of the great achievements of China after 1949, has slowed and some indicators show that the situation in some regions, especially in rural areas, is getting worse instead of better. This article will focus on policy and policy-related issues in the delivery of MCH services. It will cover historical changes in policy and their effects, especially in the financing of MCH. In addition, it will also touch upon new practices of MCH in the new cooperative medical scheme (NCMS) in present-day rural China. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
CHINA | CRITIQUE | HISTORICAL REVIEW | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | GOVERNMENT | HEALTH POLICY | POLICY DEVELOPMENT | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Policy | Planning | Organization and Administration | Financial Activities | Economic Factors
Document Number: 324355

20.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Overview Chapter 8: The impact of public policies on European fertility.
Author: Hoem JM
Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(10):249-260.
Abstract: This chapter outlines the positions in the current debate about the possibility of using public policies to influence fertility. We note the polarization between, on the one hand, those who view public policies as obvious means for lifting the currently low fertility levels in Europe, in line with the role of economic policies in a modern society; and, on the other hand, those who feel that family policies are inefficient, and perhaps even unnecessary. We place the contributions of the national chapters of this book in this framework and describe the formidable methodological difficulties that face those who seek to investigate policy impacts on fertility behavior. While properly conducted empirical investigations have overcome such problems and have clearly demonstrated policy effects in specific circumstances, we conclude that, in general, national fertility is possibly best seen as a systemic outcome that depends more on broader attributes, such as the degree of family-friendliness of a society, and less on the presence and detailed construction of monetary benefits. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
EUROPE | CRITIQUE | FERTILITY RATE | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | POPULATION POLICY | FAMILY POLICY | GOVERNMENT | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | Developed Countries | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors
Document Number: 327720

21.

Title: Reproductive health surveillance in the US-Mexico border region: beyond the border (and into the future) [editorial]
Author: Kotelchuck M
Source: Preventing Chronic Disease. 2008 Oct;5(4):A109. Also available in Spanish: http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2008/oct/pdf/08_0098_es.pdf
Abstract: This editorial examines reproductive health surveillance in the US- Mexico border region. It offers improvements for reproductive health data system methods and recommendations for sustainability of the project. It also proposes revisions to the Brownsville-Matamoros Sister City Project for Women�s Health (BMSCP) in the following areas: maternal birthing experiences, women�s health over the life course, migration history, acculturation/cultural identity/border region identity, Latina reproductive health, and MCH policy relevance.
Language: English
Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MEXICO | PROGRESS REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | BORDER CROSSING | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INFORMATION | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | PROGRAM SUSTAINABILITY | CULTURE | INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS | INFANT HEALTH | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | International Migration | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Public Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Data Storage and Retrieval | Information Processing | Child Health
Document Number: 329180

22.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Bulgaria: Ethnic differentials in rapidly declining fertility.
Author: Koytcheva E; Philipov D
Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(13):361-402.
Abstract: This chapter provides a detailed description of the fertility changes in Bulgaria during recent decades and discusses possible reasons and consequences. It also gives an overview of the steps that the government has undertaken to offset the considerable decline in fertility. Before the fall of communism, fertility trends in Bulgaria were stable and characterized by a nearly universal entry into parenthood, dominance of a two-child family model, an early start and early end of childbearing, stable mean ages at entry into childbearing and marriage, and low percentages of non-marital births. During the 1990s and in the first years of the new century, we observe a marked, rapid change in fertility behaviour. Together with the severe decline in overall fertility rates, demographic data reveal a significant postponement of entry into motherhood and marriage, a decline of the two-child family model, and an emergence of new family forms. Most research attributes these changes to the particular political and social situation in Bulgaria since 1989. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
BULGARIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY CHANGES | FERTILITY DECLINE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | ETHNIC GROUPS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | DIVORCE | ABORTION | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | EDUCATION | PUBLIC OPINION | FAMILY POLICY | FERTILITY INCENTIVES | GOVERNMENT | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Marriage | Nuptiality | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Contraception | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Pronatalist Policy | Population Policy
Document Number: 327721 Notification

23.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Equity of skilled birth attendant utilization in developing countries: financing and policy determinants.
Author: Kruk ME; Prescott MR; Galea S
Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Jan;98(1):142-147.
Abstract: Developing countries with higher health care spending have greater overall utilization of maternal health services than do countries with lower spending. However, the rich tend to disproportionately use these services. We assessed whether redistributive government policies in the context of higher levels of health spending were associated with more-equitable use of skilled birth attendants (doctors, nurses, or midwives) between rich and poor. We used data from Demographic and Health Surveys of 45 developing countries and disaggregated by wealth quintile. Multivariable regression analyses were used to assess the joint effect of higher health care expenditures, the wealth distribution of women's fifth-grade education (a proxy for redistributive policy environment within the central government) and the overall proportion of women with fifth-grade education (a proxy for female literacy and an indicator of governments' commitment to girls' education). We found that utilization of skilled birth attendants was more equitable when higher health expenditures were accompanied by redistributive education policies. Higher health care expenditures should be accompanied by redistributive policies to reduce the gap in utilization of skilled birth attendants between poorer and richer women in developing countries. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES | HEALTH PERSONNEL | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | HEALTH POLICY | HEALTH SERVICES ADMINISTRATION | ECONOMIC FACTORS | GOVERNMENT | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Factors | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Management
Document Number: 314042

24.
Title: Should there be mandatory testing for HIV prior to marriage in India?
Author: Malhotra R; Malhotra C; Sharma N
Source: Indian Journal of Medical Ethics. 2008 Apr-Jun;5(2):70-4.
Abstract: The National AIDS Prevention and Control Policy of the government of India states that testing for HIV infection should be voluntary in nature. But from time to time various state governments and the central government have announced their intent of introducing mandatory premarital testing. Though this intent has not yet been translated into action, we present our case against the adoption of such a policy by discussing various social and medical issues. These include the limited population that such a policy would target given the early age of marriage in India; issues related to its implementation considering the low marriage registration rates in India; potential of stigma and discrimination associated with it; issues with defining boundaries and the role of the state; limitations related to the HIV test itself in context of the policy, including the window period and the positive predictive value of the test; its limited impact in population groups at a high risk for HIV infection; its limited role in changing unsafe behaviours; its limited potential to enhance the empowerment of women; its conflict with existing human rights; and the adverse experience of other countries with a similar policy.
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT | HEALTH POLICY | HIV TESTING | MARRIAGE | SOCIAL POLICY | ETHICS | MARRIAGE AGE | STIGMA | SAFER SEX | HUMAN RIGHTS | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Policy | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Marriage Patterns | Social Problems | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors
Document Number: 328772

25.

Title: A case study of women's education within the Moroccan development model.
Author: Marrakchi NL
Source: Journal of North African Studies. 2008 Mar;13(1):55-73.
Abstract: This paper examines the current efforts being made in Morocco in the field of women's education and evaluates the success of the Moroccan Development Model in the field of women's education by examining the topic through three lenses: international aid agencies, Moroccan government and royal efforts and the Moroccan Women's Movement. Consideration of the historical, religious and economic frameworks for each actor maintains priority within the study as a means of evaluating the progress made to date, the current status of women's education and the long-term goals and timeframes. The findings within this paper are primarily based on UN statistics, ratings, and definitions as well as other reputable sources such as the World Bank. Sources used include magazine articles, websites, academic journals and papers, and sociological, political and anthropological books on Morocco and women. It must be noted that this evaluation focuses on Anglophone and Francophone sources only and does not consider Arabophone sources. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
MOROCCO | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES | GOVERNMENT | WOMEN'S GROUPS | EDUCATION | LITERACY | GENDER ISSUES | INEQUALITIES | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Interest Groups | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Human Rights
Document Number: 323794

26.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Community case management of pneumonia: At a tipping point?
Author: Marsh DR; Gilroy KE; Van de Weerdt R; Wansi E; Qazi S
Source: Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2008;86(5):381-389.
Abstract: Pneumonia is the leading cause of child mortality globally. Community case management (CCM) of pneumonia by community health workers is a feasible, effective strategy to complement facility-based management for areas that lack access to facilities. We surveyed experts in the 57 African and Asian countries with the highest levels and rates of childhood mortality to assess current policies, implementation and plans regarding CCM of pneumonia. About one-third (20/54) of countries reported policies supporting CCM for pneumonia, and another third (18/54) reported no policy against the strategy. Half (27/54) the countries reported some implementation of CCM for pneumonia, but often on a small scale. A few countries sustain a large-scale programme. Programmes, community health workers and policy parameters varied greatly among implementing countries. About half (12/26) of non-implementing countries are planning to move ahead with the strategy. Momentum is gathering for CCM for pneumonia as a strategy to address the pneumonia treatment gap and help achieve Millennium Development Goal 4. Challenges remain to: (1) introduce this strategy into policy and implement it in high pneumonia burden countries; (2) increase coverage of this strategy in countries currently implementing it; and (3) better define and monitor implementation at the country level. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
AFRICA | ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | CHILDREN | COMMUNITY-BASED DISTRIBUTION WORKERS | GOVERNMENT | PNEUMONIA | SYNDROMIC MANAGEMENT | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | HEALTH POLICY | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | Developing Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Community Workers | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Pulmonary Effects | Physiology | Biology | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Primary Health Care | Policy | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 326558

27.

Title: Managing migration: The global challenge.
Author: Martin P; Zurcher G
Source: Population Bulletin. 2008 Mar;63(1):1-22.
Abstract: The number of international migrants is at an all-time high. There were 191 million migrants in 2005, which means that 3 percent of the world's people left their country of birth or citizenship for a year or more. The number of international migrants in industrialized countries more than doubled between 1985 and 2005, from almost 55 million to 120 million. However, most of the world's 6.6 billion people never cross a national border; most live and die near their place of birth. Those who cross national borders usually move to nearby countries, for example, from Mexico to the United States, or from Turkey to Germany. The largest flow of migrants is from less developed to more developed countries. In 2005, 62 million migrants from developing countries moved to more developed countries, but almost as many migrants (61 million) moved from one developing country to another, such as from Indonesia to Malaysia. Large flows of people also move from one industrialized country to another, from Canada to theUnited States, for example, and much smaller flows move from more developed to less developed countries, such as people from Japan who work in or retire to Thailand. The international community believes that international migration should be voluntary, and has tried to minimize "forced migration," whether motivated by persecution or economic deprivation at home. The United Nation's 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights asserts that "everyone has the right to leave any country, including his own, and to return to his country." However, the right to emigrate does not give migrants a right to immigrate, and most migrants are not welcomed unconditionally into the countries to which they move. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | MIGRANTS | REFUGEES | GOVERNMENT | INTERNATIONAL MIGRATION | SETTLEMENT AND RESETTLEMENT | POPULATION DYNAMICS | REMITTANCES | BORDER CROSSING | ECONOMIC FACTORS | MIGRATION POLICY | Migration | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy
Document Number: 325289

28.

30.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Strengthening accountability to citizens on gender and health.
Author: Murthy RK
Source: Global Public Health. 2008;3 Suppl 1:104-120.
Abstract: Accountability refers to the processes by which those with power in the health sector engage with, and are answerable to, those who make demands on it, and enforce disciplinary action on those in the health sector who do not perform effectively. This paper reviews the practice of accountability to citizens on gender and health, assesses gaps, and recommends strategies. Four kinds of accountability mechanisms have been used by citizens to press for accountability on gender and health. These include international human rights instruments, legislation, governance structures, and other tools, some of which are relevant to all public sector services, some to the health sector alone, some to gender issues alone, and some to gender-specific health concerns of women. However, there are few instances wherein private health sector and donors have been held accountable. Rarely have accountability processes reduced gender inequalities in health, or addressed 'low priority' gender-specific health needs of women. Accountability with respect to implementation and to marginalized groups has remained weak. This paper recommends that: (1) the four kinds of accountability mechanisms be extended to the private health sector and donors; (2) health accountability mechanisms be engendered, and gender accountability mechanisms be made health-specific; (3) resources be earmarked to enable government to respond to gender-specific health demands; (4) mechanisms for enforcement of such policies be improved; and (5) democratic spaces and participation of marginalized groups be strengthened. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | LITERATURE REVIEW | RECOMMENDATIONS | WOMEN | MINORITY GROUPS | CIVIL SOCIETY | PRIVATE SECTOR | GOVERNMENT | GENDER ISSUES | HEALTH SERVICES EVALUATION | INEQUALITIES | NEEDS | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Socioeconomic Factors
Document Number: 326809


	Information & Knowledge for Optimal Health (INFO) Project 111 Market Place Suite 310, Baltimore, MD 21202 Phone: 410-659-6300 Fax: 410-659-6266 Security & Privacy Policy