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Title: mHealth for development: The opportunity of mobile technology for healthcare in the developing world.
Author: Vital Wave Consulting
Source: Washington, D.C., United Nations Foundation, 2009. 66 p.
Abstract: Mounting interest in the field of mHealth -- the provision of health-related services via mobile communications -- can be traced to the evolution of several interrelated trends. In many parts of the world, epidemics and a shortage of healthcare workers continue to present grave challenges for governments and health providers. Yet in these same places, the explosive growth of mobile communications over the past decade offers a new hope for the promotion of quality healthcare. Among those who had previously been left behind by the 'digital divide,' billions now have access to reliable technology. There is a growing body of evidence that demonstrates the potential of mobile communications to radically improve healthcare services -- even in some of the most remote and resource-poor environments. This report examines issues at the heart of the rapidly evolving intersection of mobile phones and healthcare. It helps the reader to understand mHealth's scope and implementation across developing regions, the health needs to which mHealth can be applied, and the mHealth applications that promise the greatest impact on heath care initiatives. It also examines building blocks required to make mHealth more widely available through sustainable implementations. Finally, it calls for concerted action to help realize mHealth's full potential. (Excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | PUBLIC HEALTH | TELECOMMUNICATIONS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | EDUCATION | AWARENESS | DATA COLLECTION | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | TRAINING ACTIVITIES | HEALTH PERSONNEL | DISEASE PREVENTION | TECHNOLOGY | TREATMENT | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | DRUGS | HIV TESTING | HIV PREVENTION | Health | Broadcast Media | Mass Media | Communication | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Research Methodology | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Training Programs | Prevention and Control | Diseases | Economic Factors | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases
Document Number: 331450

2.
Title: Counsellors are human [letter]
Author: Anand V
Source: Indian Journal of Medical Ethics. 2009 Jul-Sep;6(3):169-70.
Abstract: This letter touches on the subject of the medical knowledge of physicians in India. It first discusses male circumcision and then moves on to India not having an established system for sharing medical information and updates. It asks that better systems of regularly updating the medical knowledge of Indian physicians be developed.
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | CRITIQUE | PROVIDERS WITH CLIENTS | MALE CIRCUMCISION | KNOWLEDGE | INFORMED CONSENT | FEES | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Sociocultural Factors | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Communication
Document Number: 342876

Title: Demographic data for development in sub-Saharan Africa.
Author: Baldwin W; Diers J
Source: New York, New York, Population Council, 2009. 15 p. (Poverty, Gender, and Youth Working Paper No. 13)
Abstract: More demographic data are being collected throughout the developing world than ever before, but the effective use of that data to further development goals is often lacking. This paper summarizes case studies on the demand for data in four sub-Saharan African countries, namely Ethiopia, Ghana, Senegal, and Uganda. The project's objective was to create a detailed portrait of access and demand at the country level, and to determine whether policymakers are getting the data they need to develop sound policies. Common findings across the four countries include an increased external demand from international initiatives that has not necessarily translated into internal demand for data; a missing link between producers and users of data; and a need for data to be presented in user-friendly formats. One driver of internal demand for data is the decentralization and democratization process that is underway in all four countries; this demand highlighted the paucity of available data that can be disaggregated at the level to which policies were being devolved. Next steps are to support initiatives to establish data access as a right, encourage a culture of data-sharing among funders and producers of data, strengthen intermediaries between policymakers and data collectors, display data in accessible formats such as maps, and disaggregate available data to the most useful levels. (Author's abstract)
Language: English
Keywords:
ETHIOPIA | GHANA | SENEGAL | UGANDA | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | DATA COLLECTION | CASE STUDIES | DATA QUALITY | NEEDS | DECENTRALIZATION | DEMOCRACY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | POVERTY | GENDER ISSUES | YOUTH | POLICY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Research Methodology | Studies | Data Analysis | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Political Systems | Communication | Socioeconomic Factors | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 331433

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Pill scare: communication conundrum.
Author: Edouard L
Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2009 Apr;35(2):121-2.
Abstract: Adverse publicity for combined oral contraceptives (COCs) has led to pill scares on numerous occasions such as reproductive cancers in 1983 and venous thromboembolism (VTE) in 1995. Misinformation should be avoided, especially through the correct interpretation of relative risk to avoid confusion and decrease unnecessary anxiety. Reassurance is usually important, as the absolute risk is infinitely small. The popular media are very effective for the prompt dissemination of information, and authoritative statements are useful for improving communications with providers, patients and public.
Language: English
Keywords:
ALGERIA | HISTORICAL REVIEW | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, COMBINED | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES, SIDE EFFECTS | MISINFORMATION | FEAR | RISK ASSESSMENT | CANCER | THROMBOEMBOLISM | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | PUBLIC HEALTH | Africa, North | Africa | Developing Countries | Oral Contraceptives | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Safety | Safety | Health | Communication | Emotions | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Evaluation | Neoplasms | Diseases | Embolism | Vascular Diseases
Document Number: 341650

Title: Infodemiology and infoveillance: Framework for an emerging set of public health informatics methods to analyze search, communication and publication behavior on the Internet [editorial]
Author: Eysenbach G
Source: Journal of Medical Internet Research. 2009;11(1):e11.
Abstract: Infodemiology can be defined as the science of distribution and determinants of information in an electronic medium, specifically the Internet, or in a population, with the ultimate aim to inform public health and public policy. Infodemiology data can be collected and analyzed in near real time. Examples for infodemiology applications include: the analysis of queries from Internet search engines to predict disease outbreaks (eg. influenza); monitoring peoples' status updates on microblogs such as Twitter for syndromic surveillance; detecting and quantifying disparities in health information availability; identifying and monitoring of public health relevant publications on the Internet (eg. anti-vaccination sites, but also news articles or expert-curated outbreak reports); automated tools to measure information diffusion and knowledge translation, and tracking the effectiveness of health marketing campaigns. Moreover, analyzing how people search and navigate the Internet for health-related information, as well as how they communicate and share this information, can provide valuable insights into health-related behavior of populations. Seven years after the infodemiology concept was first introduced, this paper revisits the emerging fields of infodemiology and infoveillance and proposes an expanded framework, introducing some basic metrics such as information prevalence, concept occurrence ratios, and information incidence. The framework distinguishes supply-based applications (analyzing what is being published on the Internet, eg. on Web sites, newsgroups, blogs, microblogs and social media) from demand-based methods (search and navigation behavior), and further distinguishes passive from active infoveillance methods. Infodemiology metrics follow population health relevant events or predict them. Thus, these metrics and methods are potentially useful for public health practice and research, and should be further developed and standardized. (Author's abstract)
Language: English
Keywords:
CANADA | CRITIQUE | EPIDEMIOLOGY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS | INTERNET | INFLUENZA | MONITORING | COMMUNICATION | PUBLIC HEALTH | Developed Countries | North America, Northern | Americas | Health | Data Storage and Retrieval | Information Processing | Information | Information Networks | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Evaluation
Document Number: 331416

6.
Title: Doesn't the public have the right to know that male circumcision protects against HIV? [editorial]
Author: Madhivanan P; Krupp K
Source: Indian Journal of Medical Ethics. 2009 Jan-Mar;6(1):5-6.
Abstract: This editorial examines the issue of male circumcision (MC) in India and discusses doctor's challenges' with the question,"Doesn't the public have the right to know that male circumcision protects against HIV?" It describes the reluctance of the Government of India to disclose this information due to the controversy that may erupt between conservative Hindus and the Muslims in the country in which male circumcision is a marker of religious identity.
Language: English
Keywords:
INDIA | CRITIQUE | PUBLIC OPINION | HUMAN RIGHTS | MALE CIRCUMCISION | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | HIV PREVENTION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases
Document Number: 330900

Peer Reviewed

Title: An end to secrecy [editorial]
Source: Nature. 2008 Oct 2;455(7213):566.
Abstract: As part of a special collection of articles on HIV, this week's issue contains a Feature by Linqi Zhang of Tsinghua University in Beijing and his colleagues on the status of HIV in southern China (see page 609). Their conclusions are alarming: HIV prevalence is no longer confined to high-risk groups such as those who inject themselves with drugs, but is now seeping into the general population. Some of the most rapid increases are among men in same-sex relationships. Moreover, the findings confirm what veteran outside-observers of China and those concerned with HIV globally have long suspected: patterns of infection in southern China are similar to those in other developing countries - especially those experiencing large-scale migration from rural areas to cities, which provides men and women with more opportunities for sex. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
CHINA | CRITIQUE | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | POLICYMAKERS | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV PREVENTION | PREVALENCE | STATISTICS | INFORMATION SOURCES | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Persons Living With HIV/AIDS | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Measurement | Information | Communication
Document Number: 329091

Title: 2008 National Youth Shadow Report: Progress Made on the 2001 UNGASS Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. Zimbabwe.
Author: Chisango T
Source: New York, New York, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV / AIDS, 2008. 13 p.
Abstract: In Zimbabwe roughly one person becomes infected every three minutes. The country lies within the Southern African region with the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. According to UNAIDS (2005), an estimated 11.4 million people are living with HIV in nine countries of Southern Africa, one of which is Zimbabwe. This means that almost 30% of all people living with HIV globally reside in an area inhabited by only 2% of the world's population. In Zimbabwe, more than half of all new infections occur among young people, especially girls. In 2002, President Robert Mugabe declared HIV and AIDS a national emergency. Notably, by 2007, Zimbabwe reported a decline in overall HIV prevalence in the adult population ages 15-49 from an estimated 24.6% in 2003 to an estimated 9-15.6%. Nonetheless, the average life expectancy for women, who are particularly affected by Zimbabwe's AIDS epidemic, is 34 years old - the lowest anywhere in the world. HIV prevalence of young women below the age of 20 was reported to be five times higher than their male counterparts. Surveys have found that women as young as 12 years are engaging in sex work with very mobile populations who are statistically more likely to be infected with HIV in country with a generalized epidemic. With increasing political conflict and economic decline, Zimbabwe has become isolated from the international aid community. Zimbabwe is currently experiencing historic civil unrest due to a power struggle between two rival political candidates for President. The rate of hyperinflation as of March 2008 was 355,000%; with global food and energy costs soaring, and opposition voters experiencing brutal intimidation by the incumbent President Robert Mugabe. Over 4 million Zimbabweans have fled to neighboring countries as refugees, and HIV is just one of the dire concerns for a people facing starvation, violence, unemployment, and disease. The international community has isolated Zimbabwe due to violent government repression of citizens, and allegations of a fraudulent election. Conflict exacerbates the causes of high rates of HIV infection in the region- sexual violence, low rates of condom use, multiple sexual partnerships, gender inequality, and low coverage of health services amongst others. Young people account for most new HIV infections in Zimbabwe, and the an estimated 13% of young people ages 15-24 years are living with HIV, one of the highest in the world. The situation is compounded by a lack of translation of knowledge on how to prevent HIV infection into action. According to the National Behaviour Change Strategy (NCBS) what needs to be addressed are issues related to perceptions of one's level of risk of infection, sex between older men and younger women, and multiple sexual partners that expose young people to HIV. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
ZIMBABWE | LITERATURE REVIEW | RESEARCH REPORT | YOUTH | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | HIV PREVENTION | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | FUNDS | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organization and Administration | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Communication | Financial Activities | Economic Factors
Document Number: 326056

10.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Global and local networking for HIV / AIDS prevention: the case of the Saathii E-forum.
Author: DeSouza R; Jyoti Dutta M
Source: Journal of Health Communication. 2008 Jun;13(4):326�344.
Abstract: The global spread of HIV/AIDS has sparked the proliferation of civil society groups working on various aspects of the disease such as prevention, treatment, support, and policy. In this article, we explore the role of the Internet in networking civil society organizations working on HIV/AIDS-related issues across local and global spaces. Specifically, we conducted a thematic analysis of an e-forum established by the nongovernmental organization (NGO) Saathii, working on HIV/AIDS issues in India to (a) identify the specific functions served by the e-forum and (b) explore how global and local actors use the e-forum to network with one another. The thematic analysis documented four key functions of the online forum: (a) to provide HIV/AIDS-related news, (b) to serve as an informational resource, (c) to promote political activism, and (d) to express emotions. The discussion elaborates on the how global and local actors network with one another and build solidarity. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
GLOBAL | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | SOCIAL NETWORKS | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | SUPPORT GROUPS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | INTERNET | HIV PREVENTION | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | ADVOCACY | EMOTIONS | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Organizations | Political Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Information Networks | Communication | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Psychological Factors | Behavior
Document Number: 327380

11.

Title: 2008 National Youth Shadow Report: Progress Made on the 2001 UNGASS Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. Senegal.
Author: Dombou E; Diagne B
Source: New York, New York, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV / AIDS, 2008. 10 p.
Abstract: The authors conducted a literature review of relevant policies, publications and reports, including activities and cases studies on youth interventions, interviews with national and international NGO workers, as well as policymakers involved in the fight against HIV and AIDS. Questionnaires were prepared on the basis of the indicators suggested by UNAIDS in the document "Guideline on Construction of Core indicators." Key findings: 1) Senegal has a national policy on HIV and AIDS to guide a multisectoral country response; 2) Only 22% of young people had accurate comprehensive knowledge on HIV, Far below the UNGASS target of 95% by 2010; 3) Youth participation in policy and programme formulation, implementation or design is almost nonexistent; and 4) A large population of adolescents and young people is out of school and very difficult to reach with information, education and services. Key recommendations: 1) An incentive policy for voluntary testing services should be instated to attract young people to get tested; 2) Public structures such as the National Centre of Blood Transfusion (CNTS) should contribute to the efforts of testing and provide advice, sensitization and training with youth; 3) The government should increase the visibility of and access to HIV awareness programs, specifically for the young sex workers, out of school youth and young people living with HIV (YPLHIV); and 4) It is necessary to employ more young people in the decision making process by granting them positions of leadership. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
SENEGAL | RESEARCH REPORT | LITERATURE REVIEW | YOUTH | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | SEX WORKERS | FUNDS | GOVERNMENT FINANCING | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | MISINFORMATION | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | HIV PREVENTION | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 326059

12.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Reporting AIDS and the invisible victims in China: Official knowledge as news in the People�s Daily, 1986-2002.
Author: Dong D; Chang TK; Chen D
Source: Journal of Health Communication. 2008 Jun;13(4):357-374.
Abstract: Against the backdrop of the sociology of knowledge as a framework, the purposes of this study are threefold: (1) to examine the discourses surrounding the AIDS news in China; (2) to determine how Chinese people with AIDS and the identification of their social groups are covered at the national level; and (3) to discuss the implications of reporting AIDS as official knowledge for a better understanding of the interplay between the mass media and social structure in China today. Findings indicate that as an epidemic, AIDS in China has not only become invisible in the national news, but also constructed as a non-issue devoid of social consequences in public health communication. It is a disease mostly presented in an "us vs. them" news discourse that helps convey the official knowledge as to how AIDS is to be perceived and understood in the country. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | SOCIOLOGY | KNOWLEDGE | HIV INFECTIONS | MASS MEDIA | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | SOCIAL CHANGE | PUBLIC HEALTH | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | HEALTH EDUCATION | NEWSPAPERS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Communication | Social Problems | Health | Education | Printed Media
Document Number: 327381

13.

Title: Visualizing information for advocacy: an introduction to information design.
Author: Emerson J
Source: [Bangalore], India, Tactical Technology Collective, 2008. 43 p.
Abstract: This manual offers an introduction to information design. It is intended to provide NGOs with a useful and powerful tool for advocacy and research. Information design can help tell your story to a variety of constituencies. You can use it as an advocacy tool, for outreach or for education. You can facilitate strategic planning by making a visual map of a given situation. This pamphlet is divided in two parts: first an overview of information design, what it is and how it can be used for social change, followed by some basic principles, tips and advice to help you get started. The examples included in this pamphlet were made by advocacy organizations, media companies and individuals around the world. The graphics show some of the many ways information can be designed and how information design can be used in your campaign. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | MANUAL | TEACHING MATERIALS | NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS | ADVOCACY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | COMMUNICATION STRATEGY | MATERIALS DEVELOPMENT | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Communication
Document Number: 327304

14.

Title: 2008 National Youth Shadow Report: Progress Made on the 2001 UNGASS Declaration of Commitment on HIV / AIDS. Nigeria.
Author: Eshiet E; Ogunrombi A; Oghenefego I; Assim-Ita B; Taiye F
Source: New York, New York, Global Youth Action Network, Global Youth Coalition on HIV / AIDS, 2008. 13 p.
Abstract: The authors reviewed existing national policy documents on HIV and AIDS and youth, including the National Youth Policy, the HIV Sentinel Survey 2005, the National Strategic Framework (2005-2009), the National Policy on the Health and Development of Adolescent and Young People, the 2003 National HIV and AIDS Policy, and the National HIV and AIDS Prevention Plan 2007-2009. Interviews were conducted with policy makers, government officials, civil society organizations and young people to seek information on the issues and policies on youth. Key Findings: 1) Nigeria has an HIV and AIDS National Strategic Framework for Action (2005-2009), which has a comprehensive approach prioritizing young people, orphans and vulnerable children; 2) The national response is multi-sectoral, involving many ministries and sectors, and led by a Presidential AIDS Council (PAC), chaired by The President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria; 3) Youth participation in policy formulation, implementation and evaluation is still low, though it exists to some degree within civil society networks; 4) Access to reproductive health information and services for young people in the rural communities is still low and where it exists, culture and religious beliefs still pose significant barriers to access. 5) Regressive bans on condoms and other forms of contraceptives in 2008 are jeopardizing the health of thousands of young people and setting a fundamentalist precedent that threatens access for all Nigerians; 6) Severe discrimination against lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Nigerians has been enshrined into law in several states, and a bill criminalizing their sexuality has mobilized widespread support; and 7) Disaggregated data by gender, age and subpopulation has not been adequately collected for young people. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | YOUTH | VOLUNTARY COUNSELING AND TESTING | HIV PREVENTION | FEMALE CONDOMS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | HEALTH SERVICES | PARTICIPATION | FAMILY LIFE EDUCATION | NEEDS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Testing | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Vaginal Barrier Methods | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Communication | Social Behavior | Behavior | Education | Economic Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 326060

15.
Title: The use of websites for disseminating health information in developing countries: an experience from Sri Lanka.
Author: Kommalage M; Thabrew A
Source: International Journal of Electronic Healthcare. 2008;4(3-4):327-38.
Abstract: This study was designed to investigate the use of websites as a health education medium in Sri Lanka. Approximately 87.2% of the websites contained less than 100 webpages. The quality score was higher in the websites owned by local nonbusiness organisations compared to the websites owned by business organisations. Only 8.1% of the websites provided health education content for the general public as their main content. The total number of websites has not increased compared to the increase in internet usage in Sri Lanka during the last few years. The internet is an underutilised health education tool despite the growth of internet usage in Sri Lanka.
Language: English
Keywords:
SRI LANKA | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH EDUCATION | INTERNET | INFORMATION | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Education | Information Networks | Communication
Document Number: 331014

16.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Information and communications technology for future health systems in developing countries.
Author: Lucas H
Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2008 May;66(10):2122-2132.
Abstract: There has been much discussion of the role that recent advances in information and communication technologies (ICTs) could play in improving health systems in developing countries, but limited independent analysis of existing applications. Combining a case study approach with a general discussion of the issues, this paper attempts to assess the potential benefits of a diverse range of ICT innovations and some of the constraints they will need to overcome. Four broad areas are considered: improvements in traditional health information systems; computer-aided diagnosis and treatment monitoring; a range of applications generically labelled 'telemedicine'; and the use of ICT to inform general populations on health and healthcare. The final section speculates on the possible medium-term impacts of ICT in terms of improving the performance of existing systems, allowing scope for radical innovations, or even changing basic assumptions about the provider-patient relationship. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | CRITIQUE | CASE STUDIES | HEALTH PERSONNEL | HEALTH FACILITIES | INFORMATION NETWORKS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | COMPUTER PROGRAMS AND PROGRAMMING | TELECOMMUNICATIONS | TECHNOLOGY | Studies | Research Methodology | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication | Information Processing | Information | Broadcast Media | Mass Media | Economic Factors
Document Number: 326192

17.

Peer Reviewed

Title: Vital horoscope: longitudinal data collection in the Iranian primary health care system.
Author: Mehryar AH; Naghavi M; Ahmad-Nia S; Kazemipour S
Source: Asia Pacific Population Journal. Dec;23(3):55-90.
Abstract: Despite their importance, longitudinal methods of data collection are complex, time-consuming and expensive. With longer periods of observation, the problems of population movement and loss to follow-up become important. This is particularly the case in developing countries with high rates of rural-to-urban migration and residential mobility within major urban centres. A more practical alternative involves repeated data collection on well-defined communities on a regular monthly or annual basis. Combining such data-gathering exercises with a practical programme of intervention or service delivery can justify the expense involved and ensure the viability of the project.Since its establishment in 1985, the Primary Health Care (PHC) Network of the Islamic Republic of Iran has provided a unique opportunity for longitudinal data collection concerning the total population of a large number of rural communities (villages) on an annual basis (Naghavi and others, 2005). This article strives to describe this PHC-based management information system and show the type of longitudinal information collected by it. To achieve this aim, the article begins with a description of the sophisticated but simple management information system developed to support the PHC Network, the most innovative component of which is the "vital horoscope" which is described at some length in the article. Finally, the trends of changes in basic demographic and health indicators of the rural population of the Islamic Republic of Iran, as revealed by an analysis of vital horoscope data collected between 1993 and 2003, are presented. The combination of cross-sectional and longitudinal data afforded by the vital horoscope is important for obtaining a nuanced and comprehensive picture of the demographic and health status of the population nationally and in different provinces and districts, and for providing valuable information on the reach and effectiveness of the public health services. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
IRAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | RURAL AREAS | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION | POPULATION GROWTH | MORTALITY | Middle East | Developing Countries | Studies | Geographic Factors | Population | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors
Document Number: 331322

18.

19.

Title: Growth, productivity, and scientific impact of sources of HIV / AIDS research information, with a focus on eastern and southern Africa.
Author: Onyancha OB
Source: African Journal of AIDS Research. 2008 May;7(1):55-70.
Abstract: As channels of communicating HIV/AIDS research information, serial publications and particularly journals are increasingly used in response to the pandemic. The last few decades have witnessed a proliferation of sources of HIV/AIDS-related information, bringing many challenges to collection-development librarians as well as to researchers. This study uses an informetric approach to examine the growth, productivity and scientific impact of these sources, during the period 1980 to 2005, and especially to measure performance in the publication and dissemination of HIV/AIDS research about or from eastern or southern Africa. Data were collected from MEDLINE, Science Citation Index (SCI), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), and Ulrich's Periodical Directory. The analysis used Sitkis version 1.5, Microsoft Office Access, Microsoft Office Excel, Bibexcel, and Citespace version 2.0.1. The specific objectives were to identify the number of sources of HIV/AIDS-related information that have been published in the region, the coverage of these in key bibliographic databases, the most commonly used publication type for HIV/AIDS research, the countries in which the sources are published, the sources' productivity in terms of numbers of papers and citations, the most influential sources, the subject coverage of the sources, and the core sources of HIV/AIDS-information. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | INFORMATION PROCESSING | KNOWLEDGE SOURCES | AIDS | DATA STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | IMPACT | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Communication | Information | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Technology | Economic Factors
Document Number: 327160

20.

Peer Reviewed

Title: From mosques to classrooms: mobilizing the community to enhance case detection of tuberculosis.
Author: Rifat M; Rusen ID; Mahmud MH; Nayer I; Islam A
Source: American Journal of Public Health. 2008 Sep;98(9):1550-1552.
Abstract: In response to the global challenge of inadequate case detection of tuberculosis (TB), the Fund for Innovative DOTS Expansion through Local Initiatives to Stop Tuberculosis (FIDELIS) was developed in 2003 to rapidly assess and implement innovative approaches to increase the detection of new smear-positive TB cases. As previously reported, a wide range of target populations and interventions has been incorporated into successful FIDELIS projects.
Language: English
Keywords:
BANGLADESH | SUMMARY REPORT | TUBERCULOSIS | DIRECTLY OBSERVED THERAPY SHORT-COURSE (DOTS) | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | SCHOOLS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Infections | Diseases | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Organization and Administration | Education | Communication | Programs
Document Number: 307996

21.
Title: HIV testing among pregnant women in Brazil: rates and predictors.
Author: Veloso VG; Portela MC; Vasconcellos MT; Matzenbacher LA; Vasconcelos AL; Grinsztejn B; Bastos FI
Source: Revista de Saude Publica. 2008 Oct;42(5):859-67.
Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To assess rates of offering and uptake of HIV testing and their predictors among women who attended prenatal care. METHODS: A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted among postpartum women (N=2,234) who attended at least one prenatal care visit in 12 cities. Independent and probabilistic samples were selected in the cities studied. Sociodemographic data, information about prenatal care and access to HIV prevention interventions during the current pregnancy were collected. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were carried out to assess independent effects of the covariates on offering and uptake of HIV testing. Data collection took place between November 1999 and April 2000. RESULTS: Overall, 77.5% of the women reported undergoing HIV testing during the current pregnancy. Offering of HIV testing was positively associated with: previous knowledge about prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV; higher number of prenatal care visits; higher level of education and being white. HIV testing acceptance rate was 92.5%. CONCLUSIONS: The study results indicate that dissemination of information about prevention of mother-to-child transmission among women may contribute to increasing HIV testing coverage during pregnancy. Non-white women with lower level of education should be prioritized. Strategies to increase attendance of vulnerable women to prenatal care and to raise awareness among health care workers are of utmost importance.
Language: English
Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PREGNANT WOMEN | POSTPARTUM WOMEN | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | ANTENATAL CARE | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Puerperium | Reproduction | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Communication | Disease Transmission Control
Document Number: 331159

22.

Title: Improving the education response to HIV and AIDS: Lessons of partner efforts in coordination, harmonisation, alignment, information sharing and monitoring in Jamaica, Kenya, Thailand and Zambia.
Author: Visser-Valfrey M; Brown CR; Abagi O; Buabuttra T; Nalwamba C
Source: [Geneva, Switzerland], Joint United Nations Programme on HIV / AIDS [UNAIDS], Inter-Agency Task Team on Education, 2008 Mar. 77 p.
Abstract: This report documents the findings of a study on the quality and effectiveness of collaboration among partners involved in the HIV and AIDS response in the education sector. The study was commissioned by the United Nations Joint Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) Inter-Agency Task Team (IATT) on Education which brings together UNAIDS Cosponsors, bilateral agencies, private donors, and civil society organizations. The purpose of this study was to document how external partners coordinate and harmonise their efforts at the country level, to identify areas of overlap and significant gaps in country responses, and to formulate recommendations for improving synergy and alignment across IATT member agencies and other actors operating at the country level. The case studies were conducted between March and May 2007 in Jamaica, Kenya, Thailand and Zambia. These countries were selected to represent geographical, epidemiological and socio-economic diversity and because significant efforts have been undertaken insupport of education sector responses to HIV and AIDS in these settings. The study was carried out by an international consultant with the support of four local consultants. In each country, an IATT member agency hosted the study, while the IATT Secretariat, with the help of a working group of IATT members, undertook the overall supervision of the study. Data for the study were collected through a comprehensive documentation review and interviews with key stakeholders from the education sector and the overall HIV and AIDS response. To ensure maximum involvement of all parties, a draft country aide memoire was produced after the field work, circulated to those consulted and finalised based on the suggestions received. While every attempt was made to ensure that a wide selection of stakeholders was consulted, the findings are limited by the short duration of time in-country. The study is not a comprehensive mapping exercise of country-level activity. Rather the findings reflect country stakeholder perspectiveson engagements, progress and on-going challenges. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
JAMAICA | KENYA | THAILAND | ZAMBIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EVALUATION REPORT | HIV | AIDS | EDUCATION | COORDINATION | EVALUATION | PROGRAM EFFECTIVENESS | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | MONITORING | Caribbean | Americas | Developing Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Africa, Southern | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organization and Administration | Program Evaluation | Programs | Communication
Document Number: 308672

23.

Peer Reviewed

Title: An opportunity for engaging the public in global health.
Source: Lancet. 2007 Jun 23;369(9579):2052.
Abstract: You only have to open a UK newspaper on any day of the week to see that readers are interested in, even obsessed by, health stories. But this obsession is usually limited to health news that affects their lives and those of their family and friends. As Sarah Boseley, The Guardian's health editor, wrote in The Lancet's 2006 special issue on medicine and creativity: "Newspapers run stories about issues they think will interest their readers. They want to sell papers. Desk editors do not believe that stories about leishmaniasis and deaths in childbirth in Africa will do anything for their circulation." How then can people in developed nations become engaged in health issues in other countries? Can a new cultural venue that aims to "challenge and inspire visitors to consider issues of science, health and human identity" help? This week the Wellcome Collection - a pound30 million public venue from the Wellcome Trust - opened in London, UK. The collection houses the trust's library, a public events space, and 1300 exhibits, including a printout of the human genome and 60 amputation saws. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
GLOBAL | UNITED KINGDOM | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | COMMUNICATIONS PERSONNEL | COMMUNITY RELATIONS | EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES | PUBLIC HEALTH | COMMUNICATION STRATEGY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Communication | Group Processes | Social Behavior | Behavior | Education | Health
Document Number: 318052

24.

Title: Enhanced and Rapid Improvement of Community Health in Mindanao (EnRICH) program. Final report.
Author: ACDI / VOCA. Enhanced and Rapid Improvement of Community Health in Mindanao [EnRICH]
Source: Quezon City, Philippines, ACDI / VOCA, 2007 Feb 28. 25 p. (USAID Award No. CA 492-A-00-02-00025-00)
Abstract: The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is one of the six administrative regions of Mindanao. It is composed of five provinces: Basilan, Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi; and one city, Marawi. It has a population of more than 2 million, 98 percent of the population predominantly are Muslims. It is populated by five major ethnolinguistic groups, namely Yakan in Basilan, Maranao in Lanao del Sur and Marawi City, Maguindanaon in Maguindanao, Tausug in Sulu and Sama in Tawi-Tawi. With poverty incidence of 71.3 percent and a population growth of 3.86 percent (compared with the national average of 2.36 percent), the five provinces and one city are included in the most depressed provinces in the Philippines. The region regularly reports the lowest health and family planning (FP) statistics. According to the National Demographic and Health Survey, fully immunized child (FIC) coverage is at 44 percent (the national mark is 73 percent) while infant mortality rate is at 55/1000 live births (the national record is 35/1000 live births). Women using modern FP methods account for only 11.6 percent as compared to the national figure of 33.4 percent. Political instability, weak leadership, frequent armed conflicts and the geographic inaccessibility of many areas have made the delivery of health services difficult and unstable. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
PHILIPPINES | RESEARCH REPORT | ADOLESCENTS | YOUTH | PRIMARY HEALTH CARE | PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | COORDINATION | BEST PRACTICES | CAPACITY BUILDING | TRADITIONAL BIRTH ATTENDANTS | IEC | INFORMATION | EDUCATION | COMMUNICATION | HEALTH SERVICES | INTERVENTIONS | RECOMMENDATIONS | USAID | Developing Countries | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Management | Organization and Administration | Programs | Program Sustainability | Health Personnel | Program Activities | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors
Document Number: 324272

25.

26.

Title: Guidelines on protecting the confidentiality and security of HIV information. Proceedings from a workshop, 15-17 May 2006, Geneva, Switzerland. Interim guidelines.
Author: Joint United Nations Programme on HIV / AIDS [UNAIDS]
Source: Geneva, Switzerland, UNAIDS, 2007 May 15. 61 p.
Abstract: The aim of the Workshop was to develop consensus on a draft set of guidelines to ensure the confidentiality and security of HIV related information collected for patient management and monitoring, and program and HIV services monitoring and evaluation as part of scaling-up HIV services in middle- and lower-income countries. Potential methods to implement these guidelines within countries were also discussed. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
SWITZERLAND | CONFERENCES AND CONGRESSES | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION | DATA STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL | HUMAN RIGHTS | INFORMATION PROCESSING | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | ETHICS | RECOMMENDATIONS | Europe, Central | Europe | Developed Countries | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organization and Administration | Sociocultural Factors | Information | Political Factors | Communication
Document Number: 322395

27.

Title: Global health. USAID supported a wide range of child and maternal health activities, but lacked detailed spending data and a proven method for sharing best practices.
Author: United States. Government Accountability Office [GAO]
Source: Washington, D.C., GAO, 2007 Apr. 59 p. (Report to Congressional CommitteesGAO HighlightsGAO-07-486USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse Doc ID / Order No. PC-AAB-572) Highlights of GAO-07-486, a report to congressional committees.
Abstract: Every year, disease and other conditions kill about 10 million children younger than 5 years, and more than 500,000 women die from pregnancy and childbirth-related causes. To help improve their health, Congress created the Child Survival and Health Programs Fund. The 2006 Foreign Operations Appropriations Act directed GAO to review the U.S. Agency for International Development's (USAID) use of the fund for fiscal years 2004 and 2005. Committees of jurisdiction indicated their interest centered on the Child Survival and Maternal Health (CS/MH) account of the fund. GAO examined USAID's (1) allocations, obligations, and expenditures of CS/MH funds; (2) activities undertaken with those funds; (3) methods for disseminating CS/MH information; and (4) response to challenges to its CS/MH programs. GAO conducted surveys of 40 health officers, visited USAID missions in four countries, interviewed USAID officials, and reviewed data. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | USAID | MATERNAL HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | CHILD HEALTH | CHILD SURVIVAL | DIARRHEA | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | FUNDS | FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES | POSTPARTUM PROGRAMS | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Delivery of Health Care | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Communication | Economic Factors | Family Planning Programs | Family Planning | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 318015

28.

Title: Highly vulnerable children: causes, consequences and actions. The U.S. Government Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children first annual report to Congress, August 2007.
Author: United States. Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children
Source: Washington, D.C., United States Agency for International Development [USAID], 2007 Aug. [69] p. (USAID Development Experience Clearinghouse DocID / Order No. PD-ACK-053)
Abstract: The objective of United States Government (USG) assistance to highly vulnerable children in developing countries is to open up opportunities for them to lead healthy, productive lives. Addressing their urgent humanitarian needs - a necessary first response - will not in itself improve their long-term prospects or prevent increases in the number of highly vulnerable children in the future. For this reason, USG assistance addresses immediate consequences of vulnerability through direct service delivery. It addresses causes of vulnerability through activities that employ diplomacy and policy and expand our knowledge through research, demonstration, and information dissemination. Finally, it addresses the ability of families, communities, and governments to care for their children and improve their future well-being through capacity building and through integration of programs for highly vulnerable children with other development programs. The USG strategy recognizes that broad-based development programs that increase community growth and resilience are critical for a longer-term, sustainable response, because they help to create an environment in which families and communities can care for the most vulnerable and reduce future vulnerability. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | ANNUAL REPORT | USAID | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | REFUGEES | CHILD LABOR | WAR | NATURAL DISASTERS | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | POVERTY | CAPACITY BUILDING | ADVOCACY | HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE | SOCIAL MOBILITY | POLICY DEVELOPMENT | COUNSELING | EDUCATION | CHILD NUTRITION | MENTAL HEALTH | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | MONITORING | COORDINATION | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Family and Household | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Labor Force | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Environment | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Socioeconomic Factors | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration | Communication | Financial Activities | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Planning | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Nutrition | Health | Technology | Evaluation
Document Number: 322001

29.

Title: Strengthening health research systems in Central Asia. A system mapping and consultative process. Country experiences: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan.
Author: Ahmedov M; de Haan S; Sarymsakova B
Source: [Geneva, Switzerland], Council on Health Research for Development [COHRED], 2007. 34 p. (Council on Health Research for Development [COHRED] Working Paper No. 2)
Abstract: Health care and research systems in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan previously formed part of the Soviet medical and research frameworks. Each of the Soviet republics had an identical health research system at republic level that was supervised by a single national framework operating at the Union level in Moscow. In 1991, after the rupture of the Soviet Union, all Central Asian countries became independent and Moscow's supervision of their economies, including health care and health research frameworks, ceased. This has led to transformations of the health systems in the Central Asian countries, and has included the streamlining of the health care infrastructure and changes in financing and governance. For example, by 2004 the number of hospital beds halved (to 600 beds per 100, 000 population) making them comparable to EU figures (591 beds per 100, 000 population). The physician to population ratio has also decreased over this period from 35 per 10, 000 population in 1990 to 29 in 2004. (excerpt)
Language: English
Keywords:
ASIA, CENTRAL | KAZAKHSTAN | KYRGYZSTAN | TAJIKISTAN | UZBEKISTAN | TECHNICAL REPORT | MULTIREGIONAL ANALYSIS | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | PUBLIC HEALTH | NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICES | HEALTH POLICY | PLANNING | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | COMMUNICATION STRATEGY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | Developing Countries | Asia | Research Methodology | Technology | Economic Factors | Health | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Organization and Administration | Programs | Communication
Document Number: 321112

30.

Title: Libraries in the time of AIDS: African perspectives and recommendations for a revised model of LIS education.
Author: Albright K; Kawooya D
Source: International Information and Library Review. 2007 Jun;39(2):109-120.
Abstract: Library and information science (LIS) education in Sub-Saharan Africa has its historical roots in colonialism, modeling its curriculum after European LIS training, based upon the information needs of the European cultures. While this model has been useful in building and guiding LIS education in Sub-Saharan Africa, it has not adequately addressed the unique cultural needs of the African societies it represents, particularly in achieving the millennium development goals (MDGs) established by the United Nations. This paper presents a critical analysis of the LIS profession within a Sub-Saharan context. Beginning with an overview of libraries in Sub-Saharan Africa, it proceeds to examine LIS education and practice within a cultural context, critically analyzing existing structures that have their roots in colonialism. It raises questions regarding the adequacy of current LIS education and practice towards meeting development goals, using HIV/AIDS as an example. Drawing from previous research and projects in Africa, recommendations for the future of LIS education in Sub-Saharan Africa are presented. A case study from an existing partnership between academic programs in LIS in Uganda and the United States is used as an example of the benefits to both institutions. (author's)
Language: English
Keywords:
AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | CRITIQUE | LIBRARIES | EDUCATION | GOALS | CULTURE | COLONIALISM | KNOWLEDGE | POVERTY | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS PREVENTION | Developing Countries | Africa | Information Centers | Communication | Planning | Organization and Administration | Sociocultural Factors | Political Systems | Political Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | AIDS
Document Number: 320625


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