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Title: The conceptions of care among family caregivers of persons living with HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Author: Aga F; Kylma J; Nikkonen M
Source: Journal of Transcultural Nursing. 2009 Jan;20(1):37-50.
Abstract: This focused ethnographic study explores and describes the conceptions of care among family caregivers of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWAs) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Leininger's theory of culture care diversity and universality is the conceptual anchor of this ethnographic study. Using semistructured interviews and participant observation, 6 key informants and 12 general informants were interviewed in their home in Amharic language. Data were analyzed in Amharic using Leininger's phases of ethnonursing analysis for qualitative data and then translated to English. Four major themes representing family caregivers' conceptions of care were identified: nourishing the PLWA while struggling with poverty, maintenance of cleanliness and hygiene of the person and surroundings, comforting the PLWA, and sacrificing self to sustain the PLWA. Valuable data were gathered about the family caregivers' conceptions of care. Nurses can use this knowledge to design and provide culturally congruent care to family caregivers and PLWAs in the community.
Language: English
Keywords:
ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | PERCEPTION | CARE AND SUPPORT | TREATMENT | HYGIENE | POVERTY | SANITATION | FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD | HOME CARE | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Public Health | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors
Document Number: 330218

Peer Reviewed

Title: The impact of an urban sewerage system on childhood diarrhoea in Tehran, Iran: a concurrent control field trial.
Author: Kolahi AA; Rastegarpour A; Sohrabi MR
Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 May;103(5):500-5.
Abstract: The stepwise implementation of the Tehran Sewerage Project provided a convenient setting for which health impacts of an urban sewerage system could be examined with appropriate controls. In 2001, Tehran municipal districts 17 and 18 had no sewerage system connections, but areas within these districts had been planned to be connected by 2006. These areas were chosen as an intervention group. Neighbouring areas, with a similar socio-economic status, that had not been planned to connect to the sewerage system by 2006, were chosen as controls. Homes within designated areas were randomized and surveyed twice to determine diarrhoea incidences for children aged 6-60 months, once in 2001, before connection to the sewerage system, and once again in 2006, after the intervention. By 2006, 76% of the homes in the intervention zones were connected to the sewerage system. In the first stage of the study, diarrhoea incidences for intervention and control groups were 18.6 and 16.6%, respectively. In the second stage, incidences decreased to 10.1 and 10.5%, respectively. Data collected from 4179 children demonstrated that the diarrhoea incidence had decreased by 46% in the intervention group, whereas it had decreased by 37% in the controls.
Language: English
Keywords:
IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | INCIDENCE | URBAN POPULATION | SANITATION | PUBLIC HEALTH | DIARRHEA | WASTE MANAGEMENT | HYGIENE | Middle East | Developing Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Diseases | Environment
Document Number: 342515

5.
Title: [Presence of Cryptosporidium spp in children with acute diarrhea in a public daycare center in Recife, State of Pernambuco] Presenca de Cryptosporidium spp em criancas com diarreia aguda em uma creche
Author: Nascimento WR; Cavalcanti IM; Irmao JI; Rocha FJ
Source: Revista Da Sociedade Brasileira De Medicina Tropical. 2009 Mar-Apr;42(2):175-8.
Abstract: The objective of the present study was to analyze the frequency of oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp in fecal samples from children aged one to fourteen years at a public daycare center located in a needy community in the city of Recife, Pernambuco. The investigation was carried out between June 28, 2006, and April 3, 2007, and involved 182 children. Among the samples analyzed, 59 (32.4%) were positive regarding the presence of oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp, and the age group most affected was between three and five years (54.2%). The high frequency of samples positive for Cryptosporidium spp obtained in this study confirms that daycare centers are an environment that favors such occurrences, because of the direct contact between children or between children and staff. The most important infection route for Cryptosporidium spp is person-to-person transmission, which is well illustrated in daycare centers. Immaturity, deficiencies of the immune system and inadequate hygiene habits are factors that also contribute towards this type of infection.
Language: Portuguese
Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CHILDREN | CHILD CARE | INFECTION TRANSMISSION | IMMUNITY | HYGIENE | RISK FACTORS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child Rearing | Behavior | Infections | Diseases | Immune System | Physiology | Biology | Public Health | Health
Document Number: 342238

7.
Title: [Is male circumcision an effective method of controlling HIV spread worldwide?] Czy obrzezanie mezczyzn jest dobrym sposobem na zahamowanie rozprzestrzeniania
Author: Rogowska-Szadkowska D; Chlabicz S
Source: Przeglad Epidemiologiczny. 2009;63(1):49-54.
Abstract: After early ending of controlled randomized studies in three African countries, where it has been shown that male circumcision diminishes the risk of their HIV infection even by 60%, campaigns recommending such procedures were undertaken in many countries. However circumcision does not provide to males absolute protection against HIV and it is necessary to apply other strategies diminishing the risk of infection, like delaying sexual initiation, reducing the number of sexual partners and consistent and proper use of condoms. It has not been unequivocally clarified so far how male circumcision affects the risk of infection of their female sexual partner. There are very few studies concerning the influence of hygiene of sexual organs on the risk of acquiring sexual transmitted diseases, including HIV. It would be advisable to explore those issues before recommending male circumcision, particularly in those countries where HIV infected women outnumber HIV-infected men.
Language: Polish
Keywords:
GLOBAL | AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | MEN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV PREVENTION | MALE CIRCUMCISION | HIV INFECTIONS | HYGIENE | Developing Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health
Document Number: 341921

Title: Nutrition intervention and adequate hygiene practices to improve iron status of vulnerable preschool Burkinabe children.
Author: Sanou D; Turgeon-O'Brien H; Desrosiers T
Source: Nutrition. 2009 Jul 21;
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To determine the impact of an intervention that combined an increase in dietary and bioavailable iron intakes and an improvement in hygiene behaviors on the iron status of preschool children from Burkina Faso. METHODS: Thirty-three orphans and vulnerable children from 11 families who were 1-6 y old, were non-anemic, or had mild to moderate anemia were enrolled in an 18-wk trial. Using the probability approach for planning diets in an assisted-living facility, bioavailable iron intake was increased from 0.4 to 0.9mg/d by increasing the amounts of meat and citrus fruits and by adding iron-rich condiments to the diet, for an estimated cost of U.S. $0.59/mo. Hygiene behaviors were modified by implementing hand-washing before meals and by the use of individual plates for meals. Iron status indicators were measured twice and means at enrollment and after intervention were compared. RESULTS: After intervention, hemoglobin concentration increased from 98.7 to 103.8g/L (P=0.006). There was a decrease in total iron binding capacity (107 to 91mumol/L, P=0.05) and a marginal increase in transferrin saturation (13% to 17%, P=0.06). Significant improvement was not observed for serum ferritin concentration or prevalence of depleted iron stores, likely due to the confounding effect of infection. Anemia and iron-deficiency anemia were decreased from 64% to 30% and from 61% to 30%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Dietary modification associated with adequate hygiene behaviors could be a relevant strategy to control iron deficiency and anemia in areas where infection is a major health problem.
Language: English
Keywords:
BURKINA FASO | RESEARCH REPORT | SAMPLING STUDIES | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | CHILD NUTRITION | INTERVENTIONS | DIET | IRON | ANEMIA | PREVALENCE | HYGIENE | HEMOGLOBIN LEVEL | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Diseases | Measurement | Public Health | Hemic System
Document Number: 342282

Peer Reviewed

Title: General hygiene, sexual risk behaviour and HIV prevalence in truck drivers from Andhra Pradesh, South India: implications for prevention interventions.
Author: Schneider JA; Dude A; Dinaker M; Kumar V; Laumann EO; Holloway-Beth A; Oruganti G; Saluja GS; Chundi V; Yeldandi V; Mayer KH
Source: International Journal of STD and AIDS. 2009 Jan;20(1):39-45.
Abstract: The relationships between hygiene, sexual behaviour and HIV infection are poorly understood. We examine these relationships in Indian truck drivers, a group at high risk for HIV infection. Truck drivers (n = 189) were recruited into an integrated HIV and hygiene Information Motivation (IM) programme. Sociodemographic characteristics, sexual and hygiene behaviour and HIV prevalence were determined. Multivariate logistic regression and linear generalized estimating equation models were utilized. At baseline, 2.1% of drivers were HIV infected and 34% who reported having contact with female sex workers (FSWs) had contact within the previous six months. Those who washed their hands postdefecation were less likely to report genital symptoms (OR 0.02; P = 0.01) and have sex with an FSW (OR [odds ratio] 0.21; P = 0.05). After an IM intervention, there were no changes in sexual risk-taking behaviour (coefficient -0.15 to -0.02; P = 0.13-0.75); however, hygiene behaviour improved from baseline (coefficient 0.09-0.31; P < 0.01 to P = 0.03). Personal hygiene habits, like handwashing, seem to be a modifiable behaviour after a modest intervention, whereas HIV risk-taking behaviour was not. The association between hygiene and HIV risk-taking suggests the need for further evaluation of the relationship and that of other hygiene practices in high-risk men in India.
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | KAP SURVEYS | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | TRUCK DRIVERS | SEX WORKERS | PREVALENCE | HYGIENE | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV PREVENTION | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Data Analysis | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Behavior | Measurement | Public Health | Health | Viral Diseases | Diseases
Document Number: 330714

10.

Title: Trials of Improved Practices (TIPs): Determining feasible water and feces management small doable actions for HIV programs in Ethiopia.
Author: Seumo EF; Tesfay M; Rosenbaum J; Bery R
Source: Washington, D.C., Academy for Educational Development [AED], USAID Hygiene Improvement Project, 2009 Feb. 61 p. (Trials of Improved Practices (TIPs)USAID Contract No. GHS-I-00-04-00024-00)
Abstract: Diarrheal disease is the most common opportunistic infection in people living with HIV / AIDS (PLWHA) in resource limited settings. Diarrhea is very debilitating and negatively affects the PLWHA's quality of life. Household members and especially children are at risk of contracting diarrhea from PLWHA suffering from bouts of diarrhea. Improving water, hygiene, and sanitation (WASH) helps prevent diarrhea in PLWHA and their households and enhances the quality of life. The major challenge is how to integrate WASH into HIV programs. To address this challenge, USAID / HIP worked with NGOs providing home-based care services in Ethiopia to design and carry out a trial of improved practices (TIPs) to help identify the water, hygiene, and sanitation small doable actions (SDA) to be integrated into HIV programs. A rapid assessment was carried out in Amhara Region in December 2007. The SDA were reviewed with NGOs partners in Addis to identify the WASH behaviors to be explored in the TIPs. Water and feces management were the two areas that required more information and were thus selected for the TIPs. Further, despite the high risk of HIV transmission associated with menstrual blood, very little is known about HIV-positive women's hygiene practices during menstruation. To fill this gap, USAID / HIP also included this topic in the TIPs. For seven weeks trained data collectors and home-based care workers visited 62 PLWHA in Adama, Addis, Alemtena, and Wonji -- urban, peri-urban, and rural sites in the Oromo Region. USAID / HIP reviewed the findings from the Oromo and Amhara regions and developed recommendations on the WASH SDA to be integrated in the home-based care programs in Ethiopia. (Excerpts)
Language: English
Keywords:
ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | WATER QUALITY | HYGIENE | SANITATION | BEHAVIOR CHANGE | HOME CARE | INTEGRATED PROGRAMS | DIARRHEA | MENSTRUATION | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Public Health | Health | Behavior | Care and Support | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Programs | Organization and Administration | Reproduction
Document Number: 331415

11.

Title: Smart finance solutions: Examples of innovative financial mechanisms for water and sanitation.
Author: Singeling M; Claasen F; Casella D; van Daalen T; Fonseca C
Source: Amsterdam, Netherlands, KIT Publishers, 2009. 72 p.
Abstract: This booklet gives examples of how different financial mechanisms are being used to finance water, sanitation projects and small local businesses that contribute to reaching MDG-7. The first chapter describes different financing mechanisms being applied at household / community (micro-) and at intermediate institutional (meso-) level. It gives examples of how these mechanisms are being used to finance water and sanitation projects or small / medium enterprises. It also provides the reader with some useful links for further reading. The second part describes which business models can be used to obtain different financial mechanisms and gives an overview of how to write a successful business plan or project proposal. It also includes a list of organisations that finance water and sanitation projects / businesses. The booklet is designed as a source of inspiration, rather than a manual. It provides links to further, more in-depth information. (Author's abstract)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | NETHERLANDS | MANUAL | CASE STUDIES | WATER SUPPLY | WATER QUALITY | SANITATION | HYGIENE | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | PLANNING | MANAGEMENT | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Natural Resources | Environment | Water | Public Health | Health | Economic Factors | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 331418

12.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Traditional birth attendants in rural Nepal: Knowledge, attitudes and practices about maternal and newborn health.
Author: Thatte N; Mullany LC; Khatry SK; Katz J; Tielsch JM; Darmstadt GL
Source: Global Public Health. 2009 May 8;:1-17.
Abstract: Efforts to formalise the role of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in maternal and neonatal health programmes have had limited success. TBAs' continued attendance at home deliveries suggests the potential to influence maternal and neonatal outcomes. The objective of this qualitative study was to identify and understand the knowledge, attitudes and practices of TBAs in rural Nepal. Twenty-one trained and untrained TBAs participated in focus groups and in-depth interviews about antenatal care, delivery practices, maternal complications and newborn care. Antenatal care included advice about nutrition and tetanus toxoid (TT) immunisation, but did not include planning ahead for transport in cases of complications. Clean delivery practices were observed by most TBAs, though hand-washing practices differed by training status. There was no standard practice to identify maternal complications, such as excessive bleeding, prolonged labour, or retained placenta, and most referred outside in the event of such complications. Newborn care practices included breastfeeding with supplemental feeds, thermal care after bathing, and mustard seed oil massage. TBAs reported high job satisfaction and desire to improve their skills. Despite uncertainty regarding the role of TBAs to manage maternal complications, TBAs may be strategically placed to make potential contributions to newborn survival.
Language: English
Keywords:
NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | FOCUS GROUPS | RURAL POPULATION | TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS | ATTITUDES | MATERNAL-CHILD HEALTH SERVICES | ANTENATAL CARE | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | TRANSPORTATION | IMMUNIZATION | MATERNAL NUTRITION | HYGIENE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Maternal Health Services | Diseases | Economic Factors | Nutrition | Public Health | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors
Document Number: 341473

13.
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

14.

Title: Ecological sanitation latrines: The experience of Nepal.
Author: WaterAid
Source: Kupondole, Nepal, WaterAid in Nepal, 2008 Sep. 19 p. (Fieldwork Paper)
Abstract: The urbanization trend in developing countries including Nepal is accelerating, thus exacerbating the condition of proper sanitation coverage. Despite greater sanitation coverage in urban areas compared to rural parts of Nepal, access to sanitation facilities does not solve the problem of improved sanitation. This is because conventional latrines normally lead to various other pressing environmental problems, along with the injustice of scarce water resources for flushing latrines to keep excreta out of sight, which means that other community accepted sustainable solutions are needed. Therefore, considering the present context and sanitation situation of the country, there is a need for a holistic approach to call for hygienic, sustainable and ecofriendly alternatives and hence, ecological sanitation toilets. This paper argues that Nepal's historical acceptance of ecological sanitation, and its recent experience in using the approach - set out in the evidence presented here - mean that Ecological Sanitation (Ecosan) could be very valuable. It could confront these problems and provide potential "added value" to the livelihood link through agricultural production and water and environment conservation. This paper highlights acceptance and use related issues, lessons learned and challenges experienced for scaling up. (Excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
NEPAL | URBAN AREAS | CRITIQUE | SANITATION | WASTE MANAGEMENT | APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY | LATRINES | HYGIENE | AGRICULTURE | PERCEPTION | COST EFFECTIVENESS | PROMOTION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Geographic Factors | Population | Public Health | Health | Environment | Technology | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Marketing
Document Number: 331422

15.

Title: Prevalence and potential link between E. coli O157:H7 isolated from drinking water, meat and vegetables and stools of diarrhoeic confirmed and non-confirmed HIV/AIDS patients in the Amathole District - South Africa.
Author: Abong'o BO; Momba MN
Source: Journal of Applied Microbiology. 2008 Aug;105(2):424-31.
Abstract: AIM: The current study investigated the prevalence and molecular relatedness between Escherichia coli O157:H7 isolated from water, meat and meat products and vegetables and from stools of confirmed and non-confirmed Human Immune Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) patients with diarrhoea. METHODS AND RESULTS: Culture-based and polymerase chain reaction techniques were used to identify E. coli O157:H7. Thirty-five per cent of meat products, 25.5% of water, 21.7% of vegetables as well as 56.5% and 43.5% of stools of confirmed and non-confirmed HIV/AIDS patients, respectively, were presumptively positive with E. coli O157. Molecular results indicated that 10.3%, 8.6% and 7.8% of the vegetables, water and meat products examined carried E. coli O157:H7, which had homologous fliC(H7), rfbE(O157) and eaeA genetic loci to the genes of some E. coli O157:H7 isolated from 12.2% and 8.8% of the stools of confirmed and non-confirmed HIV/AIDS patients, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Water, meat and meat products and vegetables are potential sources of E. coli O157:H7 that are potentially capable of causing diarrhoea in humans especially HIV/AIDS patients. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY: Great care should be exercised to ensure that water and foods consumed by HIV/AIDS patients are safe, as contaminated water and foods can cause secondary infections in these patients.
Language: English
Keywords:
SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | PREVALENCE | DIET | DIARRHEA | HIV INFECTIONS | COMPLICATIONS | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | HYGIENE | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Measurement | Nutrition | Health | Infections | Environmental Degradation | Environment | Public Health
Document Number: 329272

16.

Title: Flowing away: Water and health opportunities [editorial]
Author: Bartram J
Source: Bulletin of the World Health Organization. 2008 Jan;86(1):2.
Abstract: Despite long-standing evidence that water sanitation and hygiene are fundamental to health, health institutions have become distanced from water and sanitation since the 1970s. In developing countries, some 2.6 billion people invest a significant proportion of their household time or money in simply securing drinking-water or somewhere private to defecate. In the European Union, planners are preoccupied with the cost of serving the public's preference for bathing in sewage-free seas - as enshrined in the Bathing Water Directive, its most popular legislation. Health practitioners also appreciate the importance of water. In a recent BMJ poll, sanitation was voted the most important medical advance of the past 150 years. Is this correct? Over 9% of the global disease burden could be prevented by better management of water (this umbrella term covers drinking-water, sanitation and hygiene).5 Intervention studies report reductions in diarrhoeal disease incidence averaging 25-37%, and - using the criteria of the Commission on Macroeconomics and Health - these interventions are cost effective or very cost effective in developing countries. Even these findings value only health outcomes - analysing all impacts indicates a benefit that can be valued at 3 to 34 dollars per dollar invested. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | WATER SUPPLY | WATER QUALITY | SANITATION | HYGIENE | DISEASE PREVENTION | PUBLIC HEALTH | DIARRHEA | Natural Resources | Environment | Water | Health | Prevention and Control | Diseases
Document Number: 323377

17.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Contextual correlates of child malnutrition in rural Maharashtra.
Author: Bawdekar M; Ladusingh L
Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2008 Sep;40(5):771-786.
Abstract: This paper examines the role of observed contextual factors like topography, development and literacy on severe malnutrition among social groups in rural Maharashtra based on the Reproductive and Child Health District Level Household Survey (RCH-DLHS) Round II (2002-04) data. Multilevel modelling techniques were applied in order to examine the district-wise variations in severe malnutrition associated with the characteristics of the places (contextual effects), as the relationships with the type of people (compositional effects) have already been well established. The results show that developmental aspects such as road connectivity, community literacy, toilet facilities and household standard of living contribute positively to the status of severe malnutrition. Also, the scheduled tribe, aboriginal underprivileged group are more at risk of severe malnourishment due to a lack of proper development, poor awareness about maintaining and enhancing the nutritional value of food and lack of hygiene and sanitation as compared with the scheduled castes, another aboriginal group.
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | CENSUS | RURAL AREAS | TRIBES | CHILD | MALNUTRITION | LITERACY | AGRICULTURE | POVERTY | STANDARD OF LIVING | HYGIENE | SANITATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Population Statistics | Geographic Factors | Population | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Macroeconomic Factors | Public Health | Health
Document Number: 308355

18.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Utilization of a basic care and prevention package by HIV-infected persons in Uganda.
Author: Colindres R; Mermin J; Ezati E; Kambabazi S; Buyungo P
Source: AIDS Care. 2008 Feb;20(2):139-145.
Abstract: Opportunistic infections are the leading cause of mortality among HIV-infected people. Several simple interventions prevent illness, prolong life, or prevent HIV transmission from HIV-infected people in Africa. These include: cotrimoxazole prophylaxis; insecticide-treated bed nets; supplies for household water treatment and safe storage; materials promoting family voluntary counselling and testing (VCT); and condoms. We provided these interventions to adults and children with HIV who were members of the AIDS Support Organization in Uganda. To evaluate use of this basic care and prevention package, we surveyed a representative sample of 112 clients of TASO in their homes. Among respondents, 95% reported taking cotrimoxazole everyday, 89% said they had slept under a bednet the night before, 65% reported current treatment of household drinking water, 89% of sexually active respondents reported using condoms, and 96% reported family use of VCT. Household observations verified that use of cotrimoxazole, bednets, and water treatment products were consistent with reported use. This evaluation suggests successful distribution and use of basic care and prevention services at an AIDS organization in Uganda. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
UGANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | SUPPORT GROUPS | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | AIDS PREVENTION | BED NETS | PESTICIDES | HIV TESTING | COUNSELING | CONDOM USE | SANITATION | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | HYGIENE | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Social Networks | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | AIDS | Parasite Control | Public Health | Ingredients and Chemicals | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Risk Reduction Behavior | Behavior | Contraceptive Usage | Contraception | Family Planning
Document Number: 324764

19.

Title: 2008 National Youth Shadow Report: Progress Made on the 2001 UNGASS Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. Vietnam.
Author: Dao H
Source: New York, New York, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV / AIDS, 2008. 13 p.
Abstract: In Viet Nam, young people under the age of 24 account for nearly half of the total population of 84.1 million people. Increasingly HIV has become a reality for young people, with 50% of all reported cases among 20-29 year-olds in 2007. Of the 40 to 120 people infected with HIV every day, the majority are young people. Viet Nam's rapid economic liberalization over the last 20 years has greatly impacted the social and sexual norms and practices of a traditionally closed society. Emerging cultural openness has found root in the lives of young people, especially as more than ever youth live apart from their families and migrate for education or employment. One of the most pressing issues confronting the health of young people, however, is the lack of access to- and acceptance of- modern contraceptives. Young people are sexually active, but taboos, stigma and conservative social norms often prevent them from accessing and utilizing prevention-based services and information. Abortion rates alone reveal the startling reality of sexual and reproductive health issues facing young people. Estimates suggest that one-third of all abortion procedures occur among young, unmarried women. While rates have declined, Viet Nam earned the ranking of the world's highest rate of abortion in 1999, performing over 1.5 million abortions, or 83 per 1000. Data from 2006 reveal that many hospitals perform more abortions than deliveries per year. With a concentrated prevalence rate of 0.5% the country is on the verge of a severely generalized HIV and AIDS epidemic due to rapidly increasing rates of transmission and skyrocketing seroprevalence among injecting drug users (around 168,000 HIV positive) and female sex workers (estimated over 50,800 HIV positive). Men who have sex with men (MSM) are also at higher risk in part due to stigma. Many MSM do not identify themselves as gay because of cultural norms discouraging homosexuality. Discreet, underground sexual activity often leads to a lack of both access to contraception and acknowledgement of prevention methods. Moreover, the majority of sex workers, intravenous drug users and men who have sex with men are young people. In Viet Nam, HIV is a youth issue. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
VIETNAM | LITERATURE REVIEW | RESEARCH REPORT | QUALITATIVE RESEARCH | YOUTH | SYRINGE | HYGIENE | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | HIV PREVENTION | FUNDS | NEEDS | CONDOMS | HIV TESTING | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Equipment and Supplies | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Organization and Administration | Programs
Document Number: 326057

20.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Assessment of risk behaviors and factors associated with oral and peri-oral lesions in adult HIV patients at Tikur Anbessa specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Author: Diro E; Feleke Y; Guteta S; Fekade D; Neway M
Source: Ethiopian Journal of Health Development. 2008;22(2):180-186.
Abstract: Background: HIV patients have several habits that can produce oral lesions. However, the association of oral habits and risk behaviors with oral and peri-oral lesions in HIV patients has not been studied in Ethiopia to date. Objective: To assess the relationship of oral and peri-oral lesions with oral habits, risk behaviors, socio-demographic factors and clinical stages of disease among HIV infected adult Ethiopians. Methodology A cross-sectional study was conducted on consecutive adult ART na�ve HIV patients at ART clinic of Tikur Anbessa Specialized University Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia during December 2005 to July 2006. The EC-clearing house's classification and diagnostic criteria for oral lesions in HIV infection was used. Written informed consent was obtained before enrollment to the study. Results A total of 384 patients, 126 (33%) males and 258 (67%) females were evaluated. The mean + SD age of males was 39.9 +10.56, and females was 33.17 + 8.85 years. Fifty seven (15%) of the unit of analysis were smokers, 178 (46%) alcohol consumers and 217(57.1%) khat chewers, use tooth sticks for dental cleaning. Of which, 132 (34.7%) clean their teeth at least once a day and 302 (79%) gave history of recent significant weight loss. Linear regression analysis showed association of oral and peri-oral lesions with less frequent cleaning (p=0.038, p=0.03, respectively), means of cleaning (p=0.004; p=0.001), broad-spectrum antibiotic use (p=0.019, p=0.008), advanced stage of HIV (p=0.016, p=0.001) and CD4 level below 200 Cells/mm3 (p=0.001, p=0.01). The oral lesions were seen more frequently among smokers (p=0.028), heavy alcohol consumers (p=0.041), those with age above 40 years (p=0.016) and recent weight loss (p=0.001). At the level of binary logistic regression analysis smoking (p=0.005), CD4 count less than 200 (p=0.039) and stage 3 (p=0.022) and stage 4 disease (p=0.046) were found to be independent risks while daily dental cleaning habit was found to be protective (p=0.021). Conclusion Oral and peri-oral diseases among HIV/AIDS patients and are significantly associated with correctable risk factors like smoking and poor oral cleaning habits. Lesions are also frequent with evidence of advanced HIV disease and low CD4 count. These findings demonstrate the need for oral health examination and education to improve on risk behaviors and oral care in HIV/AIDS patients.
Language: English
Keywords:
ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | ORAL EFFECTS | TOBACCO USE | RISK FACTORS | HIV INFECTIONS | INFECTIONS | RISK BEHAVIOR | HYGIENE | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Behavior | Health | Public Health
Document Number: 329293

21.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Evaluation of light microscopy and rapid diagnostic test for the detection of malaria under operational field conditions: a household survey in Ethiopia.
Author: Endeshaw T; Gebre T; Ngondi J; Graves PM; Shargie EB
Source: Malaria Journal. 2008;7:118.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: In most resource-poor settings, malaria is usually diagnosed based on clinical signs and symptoms and not by detection of parasites in the blood using microscopy or rapid diagnostic tests (RDT). In population-based malaria surveys, accurate diagnosis is important: microscopy provides the gold standard, whilst RDTs allow immediate findings and treatment. The concordance between RDTs and microscopy in low or unstable transmission areas has not been evaluated. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of malaria parasites in randomly selected malarious areas of Amhara, Oromia, and Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' (SNNP) regions of Ethiopia, using microscopy and RDT, and to investigate the agreement between microscopy and RDT under field conditions. METHODS: A population-based survey was conducted in 224 randomly selected clusters of 25 households each in Amhara, Oromia and SNNP regions, between December 2006 and February 2007. Fingerpick blood samples from allpersons living in even-numbered households were tested using two methods: light microscopy of Giemsa-stained blood slides; and RDT (ParaScreen device for Pan/Pf). RESULTS: A total of 13,960 people were eligible for malaria parasite testing of whom 11,504 (82%) were included in the analysis. Overall slide positivity rate was 4.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.4-5.0%) while ParaScreen RDT was positive in 3.3% (95% CI 2.6-4.1%) of those tested. Considering microscopy as the gold standard, ParaScreen RDT exhibited high specificity (98.5%; 95% CI 98.3-98.7) and moderate sensitivity (47.5%; 95% CI 42.8-52.2) with a positive predictive value of 56.8% (95% CI 51.7-61.9) and negative predictive value of 97.6% (95% CI 97.6-98.1%) under field conditions. CONCLUSION: Blood slide microscopy remains the preferred option for population-based prevalence surveys of malaria parasitaemia. The level of agreement between microscopy and RDT warrants further investigation in different transmission settings and in the clinical situation.
Language: English
Keywords:
NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS | HANDWASHING | HYGIENE | CHILD SURVIVAL | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population
Document Number: 328463

22.
Title: A stepwise regression analysis on under-five diarrhoael morbidity prevalence in Nekemte town, western Ethiopia: maternal care giving and hygiene behavioral determinants.
Author: Eshete WB
Source: East African Journal of Public Health. 2008 Dec;5(3):193-8.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Various studies have addressed the relationship between maternal care giving behaviours including hygiene behaviours and the occurrence of diarrhoea in children. However, very few studies have done in Ethiopia in general and none exist in Nekemte town, western Ethiopia. Therefore, the present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of under-five diarrhoea morbidity in relation to mothers/care takers behaviours including hygiene behavioural determinants. METHODS: Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Nekemte town, western Ethiopia from October 15- November 26, 2007. 477 mothers/ care takers of index under-five children living in the households selected randomly from sub cities in the town formed the study population. Structured and pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were entered into a computer, edited and analyzed using SPSS for windows version 12.01. Stepwise logistic regression model was used to calculate the Odds ratios and 95% confidence interval for the different risk factors was considered. RESULTS: From 477, 461 were participated in the study giving a response rate of 96.6%. The mean ages of the respondents and the index children were about 32.4 (+/- 8.8 SD) years and 25.27 (+/- 15.16 SD) months respectively. Diarrhoea morbidity prevalence over a period of two weeks preceding the study was about 28.9%. Although several maternal cares giving and hygiene-related risk factors showed significant association with diarrhoea morbidity on bivariate analysis, the use of cover material during drinking water transportation, faeces seen around the pit-hole and bottle feeding were the only significant variables on multivariate analysis. CONCLUSION: As diarrhoea morbidity was major problem among under-five children in Nekemte town, appropriate intervention programmes should be formulated focused on identified risk factors.
Language: English
Keywords:
ETHIOPIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | CHILDREN | MOTHERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREVALENCE | DIARRHEA | CHILD CARE | HYGIENE | RISK FACTORS | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Measurement | Diseases | Child Rearing | Behavior | Public Health | Health
Document Number: 331262

23.

Title: Undernutrition and household environmental quality among urban and rural children in Nigeria.
Author: Folake OS; Cole AH; Oldewage-Theron WH
Source: Pakistan Journal of Nutrition. 2008 Jan-Feb;7(1):44-49.
Abstract: This study explored the association between child undernutrition and household environmental quality in urban and rural households. Anthropometric assessments were conducted on 370 preschool children in three urban communities (high, medium and low-density) and one rural community. A structured questionnaire for mothers and an observation checklist were used to collect sociodemographic and environmental data. An Environmental Quality Index (EQI) combining four composite indicators of household environment (water, sanitation, housing, waste disposal/drainage) was developed. Results Overall prevalence was 16.8% for wasting, 29.7% for stunting and 28.4% for underweight. There was a significant association between the EQI and stunting (r = -0.437, p =0.000) and also, underweight (r = -0.491, p = 0.000) but not with wasting (r = -0.152, p =0.201). Dissagregation of data into rural and urban revealed that the significant associations disappeared in the rural but persisted among the urban children. The findings reiterate the significance of environmental inadequacies to childhood undernutrition. However, environmental quality appears to be a more important determinant of undernutrition among urban than rural children. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | RISK ASSESSMENT | RURAL AREAS | URBAN AREAS | CHILD | HOUSEHOLDS | MALNUTRITION | QUALITY OF LIFE | WATER QUALITY | SANITATION | HYGIENE | WASTE MANAGEMENT | BODY WEIGHT | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Evaluation | Geographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Social Welfare | Economic Factors | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Public Health | Health | Physiology | Biology
Document Number: 323632

24.

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

25.

Title: Water disinfection and hygiene behaviour in an urban slum in Kenya: impact on childhood diarrhoea and influence of beliefs.
Author: Graf J; Meierhofer R; Wegelin M; Mosler HJ
Source: International Journal of Environmental Health Research. 2008 Oct;18(5):335-55.
Abstract: In this research project, we studied factors that presumably affect the incidence of diarrhoea among young children in urban slums in developing countries: consumption of safe drinks, hygiene behaviour, cleanliness of household surroundings and the quality of raw water. Beliefs concerning the causes of diarrhoea were also related to health-improving behaviour, namely the application of the water-treatment method SODIS (solar water disinfection) and hygiene behaviour. We conducted a survey in a shanty town in Nairobi, Kenya. Field workers interviewed 500 households. Analysis with regression models revealed that two out of the four postulated factors were significant: children have a lower risk of contracting diarrhoea when they consume high percentages of safe drinks and live in households with good hygiene. As regards beliefs, we found that biomedical knowledge of children's diarrhoea as well as the perceived social norm for treating water was associated with the use of SODIS and good hygiene.
Language: English
Keywords:
KENYA | RESEARCH REPORT | URBAN AREAS | URBAN POPULATION | SLUMS | HYGIENE | SANITATION | BEHAVIOR | WATER QUALITY | DIARRHEA | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Geographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Urbanization | Urban Population Distribution | Population Distribution | Public Health | Health | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Diseases
Document Number: 329315

26.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Strategies for the prevention and treatment of reproductive tract infections among women in Vietnam.
Author: Huong NM; Gammeltoft T; Rasch V
Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2008 Jun;10 Suppl 1:S111-S121.
Abstract: This paper presents selected findings from a larger study on reproductive tract infections (RTIs) among women seeking abortion in Northern Vietnam. In particular it focuses on women's experience of RTIs within the context of their perceptions of female physiology and what women do to prevent and treat RTIs. The approach used was a combination of the quantitative and the qualitative: 748 structured interviews were undertaken before, and 701 after, abortion; and in-depth interviews were carried out with 20 women and 20 healthcare providers. Both healthcare providers and women believed that RTIs are an essential and normal part of womanhood. Reproductive tract infections were associated with laziness, being unclean and hesitance in using health facilities for help with gynecological problems. Women used various forms of self-treatment, including some that may be medically harmful. Women's preventive and treatment strategies were often supported and sometimes even promoted by healthcare providers. We assess women's strategies for RTI prevention and treatment in the context of the current Vietnamese health system and from a gender perspective. These strategies highlight inadequacies in the public healthcare system, while also pointing to important cultural paradoxes in the understanding of womanhood in contemporary Vietnam. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
VIETNAM | RESEARCH REPORT | ABORTION | PROVIDERS WITH CLIENTS | REPRODUCTIVE TRACT INFECTIONS | DISEASE PREVENTION | VAGINAL ABNORMALITIES | PERCEPTION | SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS | HYGIENE | SELF CARE | INTERVIEWS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Infections | Diseases | Prevention and Control | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Public Health | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Data Collection | Research Methodology
Document Number: 326459 Notification

27.

Title: Clinical waste management in the context of the Kanye community home-based care programme, Botswana.
Author: Kang'ethe SM
Source: African Journal of AIDS Research. 2008 Jul;7(2):187-194.
Abstract: This study examines clinical waste disposal and handling in the context of a community home-based care (CHBC) programme in Kanye, southern Botswana . This qualitative study involved 10 focus group discussions with a total of 82 HIV/AIDS primary caregivers in Kanye, one-to-one interviews with the five nurses supervising the programme, and participant observation. Numerous aspects of clinical or healthcare waste management were found to be hazardous and challenging to the home-based caregivers in the Kanye CHBC programme, namely: lack of any clear policies for clinical waste management; unhygienic waste handling and disposal by home-based caregivers, including burning and burying the healthcare wastes, and the absence of pre-treatment methods; inadequate transportation facilities to ferry the waste to clinics and then to appropriate disposal sites; stigma and discrimination associated with the physical removal of clinical waste from homes or clinics; poor storage of the healthcare waste at clinics; lack of incinerators for burning clinical waste; and a high risk of contagion to individuals and the environment at all stages of managing the clinical waste.
Language: English
Keywords:
BOTSWANA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOCUS GROUPS | COMMUNITY WORKERS | HOME CARE | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | HYGIENE | RISK FACTORS | WASTE MANAGEMENT | PROCEDURES | SAFETY | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Care and Support | Health Services | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Public Health | Environment | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 341262

28.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Prevalence of HCV and HIV infections in 2005-Earthquake-affected areas of Pakistan.
Author: Khan S; Rai MA; Khan A; Farooqui A; Kazmi SU; Ali SH
Source: BMC Infectious Diseases. 2008;8:147.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: On October 8, 2005, an earthquake of magnitude 7.6 hit the Northern parts of Pakistan. In the post-earthquake scenario, overcrowding, improper sewage disposal, contamination of food and drinking water, hasty surgical procedures, and unscreened blood transfusions to earthquake victims most likely promotes the spread of infections already prevalent in the area. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study reported here was to determine the prevalence of Human Immunodeficiency and Hepatitis C viruses (respectively, HIV and HCV) in the earthquake-affected communities of Pakistan. The samples were analyzed 2 months and then again 11 months after the earthquake to estimate the burden of HIV and HCV in these areas, and to determine any rise in the prevalence of these viral infections as a result of the earthquake. METHODS: Blood samples were initially collected during December, 2005 to March 2006, from 245 inhabitants of the earthquake-affected areas. These samples were screened for HCV and HIV, using immunochromatography and Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay (ELISA). RESULTS: Out of 245 samples tested, 8 (3.26%) were found positive for HCV, and 0 (0.0%) for HIV, indicating the existence of HCV infection in the earthquake-stricken areas. The same methods were used to analyze the samples collected in the second round of screening in the same area, in September, 2006 - 11 months after the earthquake. This time 290 blood samples were collected, out of which 16 (5.51%) samples were positive for HCV, and 0 for HIV. CONCLUSION: A slightly higher prevalence of HCV was recorded 11 months after the earthquake; this increase, however, was not statistically significant. None of the study participants was found HIV-infected.
Language: English
Keywords:
PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | HIV INFECTIONS | HEPATITIS | NATURAL DISASTERS | HIV TESTING | HYGIENE | WATER QUALITY | SANITATION | RISK FACTORS | BLOOD TRANSFUSION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Measurement | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Environment | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Public Health | Water | Natural Resources | Biology | Treatment
Document Number: 329352

29.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Community involvement saves newborn infants in India.
Author: Kohn D
Source: Lancet. 2008 Apr;371(9620):1235-1236.
Abstract: In a rural village in India, newborn deaths have been halved not by neonatologists or high-tech interventions but by local villagers trained in simple life-saving practices. Some experts, however, are sceptical about whether this strategy can work everywhere. David Kohn reports. 4 million newborn babies die every year around the world-almost all in poor countries. Most infant mortality experts have argued that the answer is more specialised medical care. This solution, of course, is too costly for the developing world, and so in some countries little progress has been made in improving infant survival. But now some experts think that with a little training, local villagers can prevent many of these neonatal deaths themselves, with simple, inexpensive methods. This idea is controversial, though, because it shifts responsibility for infant health from doctors to poor, uneducated people with no training in neonatology. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | CRITIQUE | BAREFOOT DOCTORS | CHILDBIRTH | POVERTY | LOW INCOME POPULATION | BONDING | HYGIENE | INFANT MORTALITY | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Interpersonal Relations | Behavior | Public Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Organization and Administration | Diseases
Document Number: 326152

30.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Infectious diseases and vaccine sciences: strategic directions.
Author: Luby SP; Brooks WA; Zaman K; Hossain S; Ahmed T
Source: Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition. 2008 Sep;26(3):295-310.
Abstract: Despite substantial progress, infectious diseases remain important causes of ill-health and premature deaths in Bangladesh. Bangladesh has experienced a > 90% reduction in the incidence of deaths due to childhood diarrhoea over the last 25 years. Further reductions can be achieved through the introduction of effective vaccines against rotavirus and improvements in home hygiene, quality of drinking-water, and clinical case management, including appropriate use of oral rehydration solution and zinc. Pneumonia is now the leading cause of childhood deaths in Bangladesh, and the pneumonia-specific child mortality is largely unchanged over the last 25 years. Reductions in mortality due to pneumonia can be achieved through the introduction of protein conjugate vaccines against Haemophilus influenza type b and Streptococcus pneumoniae, improvements in case management, including efforts to prevent delays in providing appropriate treatment, and the wider use of zinc. Tuberculosis is responsible for an estimated 70,000 deaths each year in Bangladesh. Although services for directly-observed therapy have expanded markedly, improved case finding and involvement of private practitioners will be important to reduce the burden of disease.
Language: English
Keywords:
BANGLADESH | RECOMMENDATIONS | PROGRESS REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CHILDREN | COMMUNICABLE DISEASE CONTROL | INFECTION PREVENTION | IMMUNIZATION | CHILD SURVIVAL | ORAL REHYDRATION | DIARRHEA | ZINC | HYGIENE | PNEUMONIA | TUBERCULOSIS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Infections | Diseases | Primary Health Care | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Public Health | Pulmonary Effects
Document Number: 328889


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