1.  Peer Reviewed Title: Conceptualising abortion stigma. Author: Kumar A; Hessini L; Mitchell EM Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 May 12;:1. Abstract: Abortion stigma is widely acknowledged in many countries, but poorly theorised. Although media accounts often evoke abortion stigma as a universal social fact, we suggest that the social production of abortion stigma is profoundly local. Abortion stigma is neither natural nor 'essential' and relies upon power disparities and inequalities for its formation. In this paper, we identify social and political processes that favour the emergence, perpetuation and normalisation of abortion stigma. We hypothesise that abortion transgresses three cherished 'feminine' ideals: perpetual fecundity; the inevitability of motherhood; and instinctive nurturing. We offer examples of how abortion stigma is generated through popular and medical discourses, government and political structures, institutions, communities and via personal interactions. Finally, we propose a research agenda to reveal, measure and map the diverse manifestations of abortion stigma and its impact on women's health. Language: English Keywords: CRITIQUE | KAP SURVEYS | POLICYMAKERS | ABORTION | STIGMA | SEX DISCRIMINATION | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | INEQUALITIES | POLITICAL FACTORS | SOCIAL PROBLEMS | FEMALE ROLE | PUBLIC OPINION | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Behavior | Behavior | Attitudes | Psychological Factors Document Number: 341497 |
| 2. Peer Reviewed Title: Assessment of the Chinese version of HIV and homosexuality related stigma scales. Author: Liu H; Feng T; Rhodes AG; Liu H Source: Sexually Transmitted Infections. 2009 Feb;85(1):65-69. Abstract: Objectives: To design and assess HIV and homosexuality related stigma scales in a developing world context. Methods: A respondent-driven sampling survey was conducted among 351 men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shenzhen, China. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used to examine and determine the latent factors of stigma subscales. Results: Factor analyses identified three subscales associated with homosexuality and HIV stigma: public homosexual stigma (10 items), self homosexual stigma (8 items) and public HIV stigma (7 items). There were no items with cross-loadings onto multiple factors, supporting the distinctness of the constructs that these scales were meant to measure. The fit indices in confirmatory factor analysis provide evidence for the hypothesised three-factor structure of associations (the x2/degree ratio=1.84, CFI=0.91, RMSEA=0.05 and SRMR=0.05). Reliability of the three scales was excellent (Cronbach's alpha: 0.78-0.85) and stable across split samples and for the data as a whole. Conclusions: The selection of three latent factors was supported by both psychometric properties and theories of stigmatisation. The scales are brief and suitable for use in developing countries where less time-consuming measurement is preferable. Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | METHODOLOGICAL STUDIES | KAP SURVEYS | QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN | EVALUATION INDEXES | FACTOR ANALYSIS | HOMOSEXUALS | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | STIGMA | HIV INFECTIONS | PUBLIC OPINION | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Survey Methodology | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Data Analysis | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Attitudes | Psychological Factors Document Number: 340113 |
| 3. 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 |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: The 'problem' of Asian women's sexuality: public discourses in Aotearoa/New Zealand. Author: Simon-Kumar R Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2009 Jan;11(1):1-16. Abstract: Public health research in New Zealand views Asian health - particularly, Asian women's sexual health issues - as a priority problem. In recent years, high rates of abortion and the growing incidence of unsafe sex among younger age Asian migrants have been publicized as a health concern. Public health research implicates migrant experiences and cultural factors as responsible for these trends. Loneliness and isolation among international students, inability to communicate effectively in English and lack of knowledge of available services are highlighted as reasons for the growing sexual ill-health in the Asian population in New Zealand. Extending from these, public health measures aim at improving culture-sensitive services, including targeted education. The present paper offers a critical commentary on these accepted public health perceptions that inform policy in New Zealand. It takes a Third World feminist approach to critique dominant public health discourses on Asian women's sexuality and questions the construction of knowledges about what are 'normal' and 'pathological' sexual practices. The paper revisits the data used to describe the 'problem' of Asian sexuality and argues that in order to understand sexual practices, it is important to query the cultural lenses that are used to describe and define them. Language: English Keywords: NEW ZEALAND | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | ASIANS | WOMEN | IMMIGRANTS | ETHNIC GROUPS | SEXUALITY | SEX BEHAVIOR | RISK BEHAVIOR | ABORTION RATE | CULTURE | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | PUBLIC OPINION | FEMINISM | Oceania | Developed Countries | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Personality | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Sociocultural Factors | Attitudes Document Number: 341121 |
| 5. Peer Reviewed Title: Pharmacovigilance of antimalarial treatment in Uganda: community perceptions and suggestions for reporting adverse events. Author: Bukirwa H; Nayiga S; Lubanga R; Mwebaza N; Chandler C Source: Tropical Medicine and International Health. 2008 Sep;13(9):1143-52. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The deployment of new antimalarials in Africa provides an important opportunity to develop systems for pharmacovigilance. To inform strategies for reporting adverse events in Uganda, we investigated local perceptions and experiences with antimalarial treatment, and evaluated existing and potential systems for pharmacovigilance. METHODS: Focus group discussions (FGD) were conducted with community members and health workers from urban and rural Uganda exploring knowledge of fever/malaria, perceptions and expectations of treatment, understanding of adverse effects, and experiences with adverse events. Sessions were recorded, transcribed into English, and analysed using a coding scheme developed from pre-defined topics together with themes emerging from the data. RESULTS: Between April and July 2006, we conducted 25 FGDs; 16 with community members and nine with health workers. All respondents had extensive experience with malaria and its treatment. Community members commonly recognized adverse effects of antimalarial therapy. However, events were uncommonly reported, and certain events were often interpreted as signs of successful treatment. Community members often felt that the costs of reporting or seeking additional care outweighed the potential benefits. Health workers were unfamiliar with formal pathways for reporting, and were deterred by the additional work of reporting and fear of incrimination. Respondents provided suggestions for incentives and methods of reporting, emphasizing that pharmacovigilance should ideally encompass the public and private sector, and the community. CONCLUSIONS: To be successful, pharmacovigilance relying on voluntary reporting will require active participation of patients and health workers. Addressing the costs and benefits of reporting, and providing sensitization, training and feedback will be important. Language: English Keywords: UGANDA | RESEARCH REPORT | FOCUS GROUPS | COMMUNITY | HEALTH PERSONNEL | COMMUNITY WORKERS | ANTIMALARIAL DRUGS | PERCEPTION | KNOWLEDGE | FEVER | PUBLIC OPINION | USER COMPLIANCE | SIDE EFFECTS | FEAR | STIGMA | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Malaria | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors | Body Temperature | Physiology | Biology | Attitudes | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Emotions | Social Problems Document Number: 328968 |
| 6. Peer Reviewed Title: Policies around sexual and reproductive health and rights in Peru: Conflict, biases and silence. Author: Caceres C; Cueto M; Palomino N Source: Global Public Health. 2008;3(S2):39-57. Abstract: This study is aimed at examining how subsequent Peruvian governments, since 1990, have addressed reproductive rights, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, and sexual diversity rights, as well as the drastic policy shifts and its many contradictions. Abortion and contraception consistently generated the deepest public controversies and debates, which made progress in reproductive rights difficult. HIV/AIDS was often portrayed as having the potential to affect everyone, which allowed advocates and activists to achieve some success in advancing HIV/AIDS-related rights. Sexual diversity rights, perceived as a demand made by "others", were generally trivialised and disdained by politicians, officials, and the general population. Positive changes occurred as long as the issue was given a low political and institutional profile. The analysis of policy-making and programme implementation in these three areas reveals that: (1) Weaknesses in national institutional frameworks concerning reproductive health made it possible for governments to adopt two very different (even contradictory) approaches to the issue within the past 15 years; (2) Policies were presented as rights-based in order to garner political legitimacy when, in fact, they evidenced a clear disregard for the rights of individual citizens; and (3) By favouring low-profile "public health" discourses, and marginalising "the sexual" in official policies related to sexuality, advocacy groups sometimes created opportunities for legal changes but failed to challenge conservative powers opposing the recognition of sexual and reproductive rights and the full citizenship of women and sexual minorities. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PERU | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV PREVENTION | AIDS | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | POLITICAL SYSTEMS | ADVOCACY | BIAS | PUBLIC OPINION | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Health | Human Rights | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Organizations | Communication | Error Sources | Measurement | Research Methodology | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 327684 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Nigeria struggles to contain poliomyelitis. Author: Cheng MH Source: Lancet. 2008 Oct 11;372(9646):1287-90. Abstract: Nigeria has had several setbacks in its bid to control poliomyelitis, including false rumours about vaccine safety. Now public anger over the failure of the ailing health system to deliver for its people threatens to derail the country's eradication campaign. Margaret Harris Cheng reports. Not only is Nigeria struggling to contain its poliomyelitis outbreak, it is now exporting the virus across its porous borders, and the disease is using the region's ancient trade routes to spread itself across Africa once more. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | PROGRESS REPORT | EVALUATION | INFLUENTIALS | CHILDREN | IMMIGRANTS | POLIO | PUBLIC OPINION | CAMPAIGNS | DISEASE PREVENTION | ADVOCACY | LEADERSHIP | IMMUNIZATION | BORDER CROSSING | HEALTH POLICY | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Knowledge Sources | Communication | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Migrants | Migration | Population Dynamics | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Communication Programs | Prevention and Control | Organization and Administration | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | International Migration | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 329066 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: Contraptions for intrauterine contraception. Author: Edouard L Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2008 Jul;34(3):199-201. Abstract: Intrauterine contraception is underutilised largely due to its reputed association with infections. The Copper T-380A, one of the most cost-effective methods of contraception and the most widely used intrauterine contraceptive device in the world, is effective for at least 12 years and is also used for emergency contraception. The levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG IUS) is extremely useful for treating menorrhagia. A renaissance of intrauterine contraception is overdue and will necessitate community-wide information campaigns to stimulate demand generation, implementation of service guidelines that avoid restrictive eligibility criteria, and access to service providers with special training in counselling and clinical skills. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | CLINICAL RESEARCH | WOMEN | COST EFFECTIVENESS | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | IUD, COPPER RELEASING | IUD, HORMONE RELEASING | LEVONORGESTREL | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | MENORRHAGIA | PUBLIC OPINION | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | IUD COMPLICATIONS | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | IUD | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Agents, Progestin | Contraceptive Agents, Female | Contraceptive Agents | Menstruation Disorders | Diseases | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 327779 |
| 9. Title: Fertility concern in Finland and Russia: Economic thinking and ideal family size in the rhetoric of population polices. Author: Isola AM Source: Finnish Yearbook of Population Research. 2008;43:63-84. Abstract: This article deals with fertility concern in Russian and Finnish population policies. The article points out that some commonly known discourses are persistently used as arguments in fertility-related population policies. In Finland, these include, for instance, discourses on "ageing nation" and "economic competitiveness". Russian policymakers use a "crisis discourse" that consists of three sub-discourses: "demographic crisis", "reproductive health in crisis" and "family crisis". The Russian government implements pronatalist population policies, whereas Finnish authorities hesitate to use the term "population policy" because of its emphasis on reproductive rights on the one hand, and the negative associations of population policy on the other. Russia has both population and family programs, as well as a new law with a specifically pronatalist emphasis. Conversely, Finland uses family policy as a tool of population policy. (author's) Language: English Keywords: FINLAND | RUSSIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | POPULATION | FAMILY SIZE, IDEAL | HOME ECONOMICS | POPULATION POLICY | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | PUBLIC OPINION | PERCEPTION | DEMOGRAPHIC AGING | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | PRONATALIST POLICY | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | Developed Countries | Europe, Northern | Europe | Asia, Northern | Asia | Developing Countries | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Family Size | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Microeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Family Planning | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Health | Human Rights Document Number: 326069 |
10.  Peer Reviewed Title: Bulgaria: Ethnic differentials in rapidly declining fertility. Author: Koytcheva E; Philipov D Source: Demographic Research. 2008 Jul 1;19(13):361-402. Abstract: This chapter provides a detailed description of the fertility changes in Bulgaria during recent decades and discusses possible reasons and consequences. It also gives an overview of the steps that the government has undertaken to offset the considerable decline in fertility. Before the fall of communism, fertility trends in Bulgaria were stable and characterized by a nearly universal entry into parenthood, dominance of a two-child family model, an early start and early end of childbearing, stable mean ages at entry into childbearing and marriage, and low percentages of non-marital births. During the 1990s and in the first years of the new century, we observe a marked, rapid change in fertility behaviour. Together with the severe decline in overall fertility rates, demographic data reveal a significant postponement of entry into motherhood and marriage, a decline of the two-child family model, and an emergence of new family forms. Most research attributes these changes to the particular political and social situation in Bulgaria since 1989. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BULGARIA | RESEARCH REPORT | FERTILITY CHANGES | FERTILITY DECLINE | FERTILITY DETERMINANTS | ETHNIC GROUPS | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | DIVORCE | ABORTION | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | EDUCATION | PUBLIC OPINION | FAMILY POLICY | FERTILITY INCENTIVES | GOVERNMENT | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Cultural Background | Population Characteristics | Marriage | Nuptiality | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Contraception | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Pronatalist Policy | Population Policy Document Number: 327721 Notification |
| 11. Title: Mirror on the media. Gender and tabloids in Southern Africa. Author: Morna CL; Ndlovu S Source: Johannesburg, South Africa, Gender Links, 2008. 100 p. Abstract: This report is part of Mirror on the Media series of monitoring reports coordinated by GL with the support of the Open Society Initiative of Southern Africa (OSISA) on gender and the media. Previous studies include: Gender and Advertising in Southern Africa; Who talks on radio talk shows and Who makes the news, an analysis of the 2005 Global Media Monitoring Project (GMMP) results in Southern Africa. The study focused on gender and tabloids in three Southern African countries with the highest density of tabloids, defined both in terms of size and content. It included monitoring of three newspapers in each country over the month of June 2007. The monitoring covered a total of 2546 news items: 859 in Mauritius; 1203 in South Africa and 484 in Tanzania (where tabloids are much fewer pages than in the other countries). Researchers also conducted desk top research; interviewed editors; gathered case material and administered an audience survey to 280 readers in the three countries. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: AFRICA, SOUTHERN | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | CELEBRITIES | GENDER ISSUES | NEWSPAPERS | SPORTS | SEX FACTORS | MONITORING | PUBLIC OPINION | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Influentials | Knowledge Sources | Communication | Sociocultural Factors | Printed Media | Mass Media | Social Behavior | Behavior | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Evaluation | Attitudes | Psychological Factors Document Number: 325692 |
| 12. Title: Are country reputations for good and bad leadership on AIDS deserved? An exploratory quantitative analysis. Author: Nattrass N Source: Journal of Public Health. 2008 Dec;30(4):398-406. Abstract: Some countries (e.g. Brazil) have good reputations on AIDS policy, whereas others, (notably South Africa) have been criticized for inadequate leadership. Cross-country regression analysis reveals that these 'poster children' for AIDS leadership have indeed performed better or worse than expected given their economic and institutional constraints and the demographic and health challenges facing them. Regressions were run on HAART coverage (number on highly active antiretroviral therapy as percentage of total need) and MTCTP coverage (pregnant HIV+ women accessing mother-to-child-transmission prevention services as percentage of total need). Brazil, Cambodia, Thailand and Uganda (all of whom have established reputations for good leadership on AIDS performed consistently better than expected-as did Burkina-Faso, Suriname, Paraguay Costa Rica, Mali and Namibia. South Africa, which has the worst reputation for AIDS leadership, performed significantly below expectations-as did Uruguay and Trinidad and Tobago. The paper thus confirms much of the conventional wisdom on AIDS leadership at country level and suggests new areas for research. Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | INFLUENTIALS | POLICYMAKERS | LEADERSHIP | AIDS PREVENTION | HIV PREVENTION | PUBLIC OPINION | PERCEPTION | HEALTH POLICY | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Comparative Studies | Studies | Knowledge Sources | Communication | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | HIV | Transmission | Infections Document Number: 331076 |
| 13. Peer Reviewed Title: Antiretroviral therapy in Zambia: colours, 'spoiling', 'talk' and the meaning of antiretrovirals. Author: Schumaker LL; Bond VA Source: Social Science and Medicine. 2008 Dec;67(12):2126-34. Abstract: We examine responses to the roll-out of antiretroviral drugs (ARVs) in Zambia in 2004, focusing on material features of the drugs (colour, shape, size, origin), 'spoiling' (concern about toxicity, side effects of the drugs) and rumours ('talk' about the drugs). Data consists of interviews with 10 people living with HIV and 21 healthcare practitioners. We found that the colour symbolism of 'traditional medicine' has some influence on ideas about ARVs, suggesting possible 'meaning responses' that could affect treatment outcomes. Respondents also become concerned when colours, shapes and side effects differ from expectations. 'Talk' about ARVs concerns risks of medication, sustainability of treatment programmes and people's feelings of vulnerability within larger socio-economic contexts in which countries like Zambia are disadvantaged. Understanding the associations that pharmaceuticals evoke can improve treatment programmes by elucidating public and patient concerns and sensitising healthcare professionals to the historical and political circumstances that condition the 'meaning' of ARVs. Language: English Keywords: ZAMBIA | RESEARCH REPORT | OPERATIONS RESEARCH | KAP SURVEYS | ADMINISTRATIVE PERSONNEL | AIDS PREVENTION | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | TOXICITY | SIDE EFFECTS | BELIEFS | TRADITIONAL HEALTH PRACTICES | PERCEPTION | PROGRAM SUSTAINABILITY | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | PUBLIC OPINION | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Research Methodology | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | AIDS | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | HIV | Physiology | Biology | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Culture | Sociocultural Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Economic Factors | Attitudes Document Number: 331064 |
| 14. Title: Emergency contraception: Overestimated effectiveness and questionable expectations. Author: Stanford JB Source: Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 2008 Jan;83(1):19-21. Abstract: Reproductive-health advocates have advocated tirelessly for increased awareness of, access to, and utilization of emergency contraception, particularly levonorgestrel (Plan B), with considerable success in the face of much opposition. Unfortunately, the associated political and ideological struggles have diverted attention from two key issues around the use of this drug: how effective it really is and the impact of its use at the population level. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | NORTH CAROLINA | NEW JERSEY | UNITED KINGDOM | CRITIQUE | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE USE-EFFECTIVENESS | TIME FACTORS | PUBLIC OPINION | IMPACT | NEEDS | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Europe, Western | Europe | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Effectiveness | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Communication | Economic Factors | Technology Document Number: 323628 |
| 15. Peer Reviewed Title: A community-based bacteriological study of quality of drinking-water and its feedback to a rural community in western Maharashtra, India. Author: Tambe PV; Daswani PG; Mistry NF; Ghadge AA; Antia NH Source: Journal of Health, Population and Nutrition. 2008 Jun;26(2):139-150. Abstract: A longitudinal study of the bacteriological quality of rural water supplies was undertaken for a movement towards self-help against diseases, such as diarrhoea, and improved water management through increased community participation. Three hundred and thirteen water samples from different sources, such as well, tank, community standpost, handpumps, percolation lakes, and streams, and from households were collected from six villages in Maharashtra, India, over a one-year period. Overall, 49.8% of the 313 samples were polluted, whereas 45.9% of the samples from piped water supply were polluted. The quality of groundwater was generally good compared to open wells. Irregular and/or inadequate treatment of water, lack of drainage systems, and domestic washing near the wells led to deterioration in the quality of water. No major diarrhoeal epidemics were recorded during the study, although a few sporadic cases were noted during the rainy season. As a result of a continuous feedback of bacteriological findings to the community, perceptions of the people changed with time. An increased awareness was observed through active participation of the people cutting across age-groups and different socioeconomic strata of the society in village activities. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | RURAL POPULATION | COMMUNITY | WATER SUPPLY | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | FEEDBACK | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES | ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION | DIARRHEA | EPIDEMICS | PUBLIC OPINION | INTERVENTIONS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Natural Resources | Environment | Infections | Diseases | Evaluation Methodology | Evaluation | Organization and Administration | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Environmental Degradation | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Programs Document Number: 327781 |
| 16. Title: Differential community response to introduction of zinc for childhood diarrhea and combination therapy for malaria in southern Mali. Author: Winch PJ; Doumbia S; Kante M; Male AD; Swedberg E Source: Journal of Nutrition. 2008 Mar;138:642-645. Abstract: Developing effective, affordable, and sustainable delivery strategies for the isolated low-income populations that stand to gain the most from micronutrient interventions has proven difficult. We discuss our experience with implementation of zinc as treatment for diarrhea in children less than 5 y of age over the course of 3 operational research studies in rural Sikasso Region, Mali, West Africa. The initial formative research study highlighted how malaria affects perceptions of diarrhea and its causes and that malaria and diarrhea are not necessarily viewed as distinct conditions. The second-phase pilot introduction demonstrated that, in introducing zinc treatment in malaria-endemic regions, it is especially important that both community and facility-level providers be trained to manage sick children presenting with multiple symptoms. The third-phase study on large-scale implementation detected that the experience with implementation of new treatments for malaria is distinct from that of diarrhea. To some extent zinc treatment is the solution to a problem that communities may not recognize at all. Interventions to improve case management of sick children must be integrated across diseases and nutritional problems at both the facility and community levels. Operational research can identify points where integration should occur and how it should be carried out. Programs targeting single diseases or single nutritional problems can have a variety of deleterious effects on health systems, no matter how well they are planned. (author's) Language: English Keywords: MALI | RESEARCH REPORT | OPERATIONS RESEARCH | FORMATIVE RESEARCH | PILOT PROJECTS | CHILDREN | COMMUNITY | ZINC | FOOD SUPPLEMENTATION | PUBLIC OPINION | DIARRHEA | COMMUNITY RELATIONS | COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION | MALARIA | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developing Countries | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration | Research Methodology | Studies | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Nutrition Programs | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Diseases | Group Processes | Social Behavior | Parasitic Diseases Document Number: 324776 |
| 17. Peer Reviewed Title: Vaccine-derived poliomyelitis in Nigeria. Source: Lancet. 2007 Oct 20;370(9596):1394. Abstract: Eradicating poliomyelitis presents many challenges. Financing essential activities can be difficult when donors fail to meet funding targets (a US$60 million funding gap currently exists for the fourth quarter of 2007). Security issues in two of the four polio-endemic countries-Afghanistan and Pakistan-make access to children difficult for immunisation teams. And in Nigeria, low vaccine coverage and an outbreak of disease from vaccine-derived poliovirus (VDPV) could set back global eradication efforts. Over the past 10 years there have been nine outbreaks of poliomyelitis derived from the oral vaccine in nine countries. Nigeria has seen the largest outbreak; 69 children have been paralysed this year. VDPVs are rare but occur when the live virus in an oral polio vaccine mutates and reverts to neurovirulence. This loss of attenuation does not matter so much in populations who are fully immunised with oral vaccine, since they will be protected from wild and vaccine-derived poliovirus, but in Nigeria,where vaccine coverage is 39% (and even lower in some northern states), it is a problem. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | CHILDREN | POLICYMAKERS | GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | POLIO | VACCINES | WHO | CDC | PUBLIC OPINION | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | UN | International Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | USPHS | Government Agencies | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 321884 |
| 18. Title: Council works to reduce unsafe abortion in Mexico. Author: Population Council Source: Population Briefs. 2007 Dec;13(3):5. Abstract: In April 2007, Mexico City's legislative assembly voted to liberalize abortion law to permit the interruption of pregnancy in the first trimester. The city is a federal district-similar to Washington, DC-and has a state-like autonomy. The law is in place only in Mexico City; Mexico's states still have restrictive abortion laws. The Council's research and collaboration with local nongovernmental organizations, universities, professional associations, and the Mexican government helped bring about this groundbreaking legislation. "The Population Council's research findings on abortion in Latin America have been used by government officials and women's rights advocacy groups to shape evidence-based policies, including the recent change in abortion law in Mexico City," says Sandra G. Garcia, the Council's director of reproductive health for Latin America and the Caribbean. In 2007, Garcia was honored as a recipient of the Guttmacher Institute's Darroch Award for Excellence in Sexual and Reproductive Health Research. She was cited for "research documenting abortion-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices in Mexico" that "played an important role in the...recent decision to legalize first-trimester abortion." (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: MEXICO | CRITIQUE | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | POLICYMAKERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANT WOMEN | PHYSICIANS | ABORTION | ABORTION LAW | PUBLIC OPINION | ATTITUDES | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 324243 Notification |
| 19. Title: Abortion law [letter] [reply] Author: Argent V; Wakley G Source: Journal of Family Planning and Reproductive Health Care. 2007 Jan;33(1):65. Abstract: Shortage of space in a journal always constrains the amount of material in any commentary. References to support the view that "other polls generally show support for earlier abortion on request and improved access" have been widely available. They include one on 'Women's perceptions of abortion law and practice in Britain' carried out by BMRB Social Research for Marie Stopes International. This showed that 88% of women believed that decisions about abortion should rest with the woman concerned and that 67% believed that abortion should be free on the National Health Service. The State of the Nation poll by the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust found that 76% of the UK population were pro-choice. The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists reported that one in three women have an abortion in their lifetime and that almost 90% of abortions take place in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. These large numbers provide a practical demonstration of the wishes of women to have access to early abortion. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED KINGDOM | CRITIQUE | WOMEN | ABORTION | ABORTION LAW | PUBLIC OPINION | FAMILY PLANNING PROGRAMS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 311585 Notification |
| 20. Title: Is it all in a word? The effect of issue framing on public support for U.S. spending on HIV / AIDS in developing countries. Author: Bleich S Source: Harvard International Journal of Press / Politics. 2007;12(2):120-132. Abstract: The frequency of government foreign aid decisions influenced by pubic opinion has risen dramatically in the past few years. This study looks at the effect of issue framing on support for U.S. spending on HIV/AIDS in developing countries-specifically, at how support changes when the phrase foreign aid is included or omitted from a survey question. Analyses reveal a significant effect of issue framing for women and Democrats. Omitting the phrase foreign aid is associated with increased support for U.S. spending among Democrats and decreased support among women. Regardless of issue framing, blacks, Hispanics, and more educated individuals support U.S. spending on HIV/AIDS in developing countries. However, when forced to decide between funds' going overseas for HIV/AIDS in developing countries or remaining in the United States, all respondents overwhelmingly support monies' being used in the United States. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEY METHODOLOGY | POPULATION | PUBLIC OPINION | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | FOREIGN AID | TERMINOLOGY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Financial Activities | Economic Factors Document Number: 317574 |
| 21. Title: Free choice restricted: USAID's reactionary policies and the case of emergency contraception in Peru. Author: Chavez S; Coe AB Source: Lima, Peru, Centro de Promocion y Defensa de los Derechos Sexuales y Reproductivos [PROMSEX], 2007 Sep. 27 p. Abstract: For 30 years the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been the primary foreign donor to health programs in Peru. In 1998 alone it provided $21 million to Peru's public health sector, making up approximately one-fourth of the bi- and multilateral financial aid in this area. A significant portion of USAID's funding has been directed to reproductive health, with a focus on family planning. For example, between 1994 and 1998, USAID provided $85 million to family planning activities, or three quarters of all of its reproductive health aid to Peru. USAID's support has contributed significantly to improving the reproductive health and rights of people living in poverty in Peru, particularly women. Nevertheless, politically driven U.S. policies governing USAID's programs have at times inhibited reproductive rights and adversely affected the health and well-being of individuals. Depending on the goals of successive U.S. administrations, USAID's support for family planning programsin Peru has shifted since it began working there in the 1960s. Initially, it focused on meeting demographic goals, with a mindset toward simply slowing rapid population growth. After the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo in 1994, USAID sought to implement that agreement, shifting to a rights-based approach to population policy, which emphasized women's needs and context, rather than fertility targets. Today, under the conservative Bush administration, USAID's position on emergency contraception in Peru negates fundamental human rights, including the right to informed and voluntary decisions over one's body, reproduction, and contraceptive use. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: PERU | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | USAID | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | FAMILY PLANNING POLICY | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | CHRISTIANITY | PUBLIC OPINION | CONSERVATISM | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Contraception | Family Planning | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Human Rights | Religion | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 321280 |
| 22. Title: Reassessing how society prioritizes the health of young people. Author: Eisenberg D; Freed GL Source: Health Affairs. 2007 Mar-Apr;26(2):345-354. Abstract: A number of important health policy issues, such as the allocation of flu vaccines during a pandemic, require society to determine priorities across different age groups. Cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) and related methods of economic evaluation are often useful for determining optimal resource allocations. Using the examples of recently evaluated vaccine interventions, we show that current methods of CEA are likely to undervalue health interventions for young people, relative to societal preferences inferred from research on age preferences and the value of health over time. These findings demonstrate important considerations regarding how society distributes health resources across age groups. (author's) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | LITERATURE REVIEW | YOUTH | POLICYMAKERS | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | COST EFFECTIVENESS | RESOURCE ALLOCATION | AGE FACTORS | VACCINATION | PUBLIC OPINION | GOALS | HEALTH POLICY | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Health | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation | Financial Activities | Economic Factors | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Planning | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 314244 |
| 23. Peer Reviewed Title: Population size, economic development, and attitudes towards inequality: Evidence from 30 nations. Author: Evans MD; Kelley J Source: Population Review. 2007;46(2):[22] p. Abstract: How does population size affect social life? In accord with Durkheim's classic argument about the shift from the rigid "mechanical" solidarity of small societies to the more differentiated and interdependent "organic" solidarity of large societies, data from 30 nations and 19,568 respondents shows that the citizenry of large societies prefer more inequality in earnings than do citizens of small societies, net of the level of economic development. One reason for this is that citizens of large countries support larger rewards for education and occupational success. In most societies, the actual level of inequality is close to the ideal level, or a little higher. Data are from the World Inequality Study, which pools data from many excellent international survey projects; analysis is by OLS and multi-level regression. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | POPULATION | POPULATION SIZE | ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT | ATTITUDES | INEQUALITIES | PUBLIC OPINION | INCOME | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | OCCUPATIONAL STATUS | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Comparative Studies | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Economic Factors | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Socioeconomic Factors | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Employment Status Document Number: 324753 |
| 24. Title: Role of marketing in polio eradication. Author: Goswami R Source: [Unpublished] 2007. Presented at the International Marketing Conference on Marketing and Society, Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIMK), April 8-10, 2007. [16] p. Abstract: Reducing the number of children affected by polio from 1000 per day to around 4 per day is not a small feat by any standard only if, we hadn't decided to eradicate polio and, it wasn't six year since the target for eradication was set. Since the WHA resolution of 1988, globally over USD 4 billion has been spent, more than 10 million volunteers has administered around 10 billion polio doses in hundreds of National and supplementary immunization days (NIDs and SNIDs) across the world. The initial few years in eradication were, undoubtedly, remarkable with countries and continents being freed from the infection and disease. Although, the eradication target of year 2000 could not be achieved, but it was never far from sight till, vaccination activities were stopped in Nigeria in 2003. Situation created by the resulting outbreaks there and, following importation of the wild polio virus (WPV) to other countries changed the eradication scenario, in spite of the many efforts; this spread of polio could still not be halted on time. Even in 2006, some pockets of WPV i.e. one in Moradabad, India and some other in Kano, Nigeria are cause of concern for eradication experts as it is clear now that polio will not be eradicated before year 2007. Back in 1988, no one had envisaged that polio eradication will be this difficult. The explanation for current outbreak is being given by 'four year cycle' of return of polio as even earlier in 1998 and 2002, there were outbreaks. Situation in Nigeria and India are suggestive that it will take at least one year before Polio is eradicated. The hope goes down as the number of cases goes up in 2006 than last 3 year. India has reported the highest number of cases in last 4 years. Much of the debate is going on the strategy followed to eradicate polio out of world. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | RESEARCH REPORT | INTERVIEWS | CHILDREN | INFLUENTIALS | POLIO | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | SOCIAL MARKETING | IMMUNIZATION | PUBLIC OPINION | ACCEPTANCE PROCESS | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Knowledge Sources | Communication | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Marketing | Economic Factors | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Decision Making Document Number: 325178 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Teenage pregnancy and moral panic in Brazil. Author: Heilborn ML; Brandao ER; Da Silva Cabral C Source: Culture, Health and Sexuality. 2007 Jul-Aug;9(4):403-414. Abstract: This paper examines teenage pregnancy as a social-historical construction of increasing concern in Brazil. It presents findings from over five years of empirical research alongside an analysis of a sample of newspaper articles representative of the dominant positions in the Brazilian press concerning teenage pregnancy. In contrast to mainstream arguments and to broader moral panic surrounding teenage pregnancy, we argue that contemporary patterns of sexual behaviour among young people in Brazil do not signal growing permissiveness and are not straightforwardly related to poverty, family dysfunction or lack of life projects on the part of young people themselves. On the contrary, early pregnancy and parenthood retain strong continuities with core Brazilian values and norms of sexual culture. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CRITIQUE | LONGITUDINAL STUDIES | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | PREGNANT WOMEN | ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | NEWSPAPERS | PUBLIC OPINION | POVERTY | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | VALUE ORIENTATION | FIRST INTERCOURSE | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Behavior | Printed Media | Mass Media | Communication | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Behavior | Contraception | Family Planning Document Number: 308853 |
| 26. Title: Why we need to truly understand the medical literature [editorial] Author: Jordan B; Mooney C Source: Contraception. 2007 Jun;75(6):405-406. Abstract: During the past century, extraordinary scientific breakthroughs have transformed the ways in which we control our fertility, harness energy, protect ourselves against disease and much more. In the United States especially, we have long depended upon science and technology to improve our lives. Yet, despite major scientific advances and our society's strong reliance upon them, the integrity of science itself has taken a beating in recent years. Ideally, science should advance as new results call previously held assumptions into question; yet all too often, we have seen inconvenient data attacked, misinterpreted or even suppressed in the service of ideology or fatter profits. Furthermore, in many or even most modern cases, individuals out to undermine established scientific findings speak in the language of "science," citing unconfirmed studies and weak data to support their conclusions. In the medical and especially the highly politicized reproductive health arena, one consequence of the frequent misappropriation of the mantle of science can be seen in a cacophony of news headlines, presenting bewildering and often conflicting information: "Rethinking Hormones, Again", "What? Condoms Can Prevent AIDS? No Way!", "Public Citizen Petitions FDA to Ban Birth Control Pills Containing Hormone Desogestrel", "FDA To Reconsider Standards for Reviewing Low-Dose Oral Contraceptives", "Contraceptive Patch May Raise Blood Clot Risk" and "Delinking Abortion and Breast Cancer" Surveying this turmoil is a weary public, unclear what to think as research conclusions seem to change and contradict one another with disconcerting frequency. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | HEALTH PERSONNEL | SCIENCE | MISINFORMATION | MASS MEDIA | PUBLIC OPINION | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | CONTRACEPTIVE SAFETY | ACADEMIC TRAINING | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sociocultural Factors | Communication | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Safety | Public Health | Training Programs | Education Document Number: 316845 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Knowledge and perception of abortion and the abortion law in Trinidad and Tobago. Author: Martin CJ; Hyacenth G; Suite LS Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2007 May;15(29):97-107. Abstract: As for most of its Caribbean neighbours, Trinidad and Tobago's leading cause of maternal morbidity is unsafe abortion. Yet activism to introduce public policy and legislation that effectively address this aspect of women's reproductive rights and health has been met with public outcry. With almost hysterical opposition coming from certain religious quarters, there is the unsubstantiated impression that Trinidadians are overwhelmingly opposed to abortion law reform. A national survey was therefore carried out of people's knowledge and views on the current abortion law in Trinidad and Tobago. The survey found that although almost half of respondents had an unfavourable perception of abortion, more than half of them were in favour of broadening the legal grounds for accessing terminations. Incest, rape and danger to a woman's life were cited as the most significant circumstances under which abortions should be permitted. The vast majority of respondents agreed that voting on abortion law reform by members of the legislature should not be based on personal beliefs. The findings demonstrate that there is not the degree of opposition to abortion law reform that is widely assumed. On the other hand, given the wide variance of views and perceptions, we argue that public health concerns and human rights should always trump public opinion. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO | SUMMARY REPORT | MOTHERS | ABORTION LAW | PUBLIC OPINION | POLICY | PERCEPTION | KNOWLEDGE | MORBIDITY | Caribbean | Americas | Developing Countries | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Political Factors | Diseases Document Number: 316700 Notification |
| 28. Title: HPV vaccine: implications for nurses and patients. Author: Schmidt JV Source: Nursing for Women's Health. 2007;11(1):83-87. Abstract: In June 2006, the approval and recommendation of a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine that can prevent most cervical cancers piqued interest, generated much media attention and raised questions. As a result, many young women, parents and others want to know more about this vaccine. This article will help nurses understand and communicate about issues surrounding the vaccine. HPVs are a family of more than 100 virus types that cause such problems as common warts, plantar warts, skin cancers, anal and genital warts, recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (a rare benign infection of type HPV 6 or 11 that passes from mothers to infants during childbirth), head and neck cancers, genital cancers (vagina, vulva, penile) and cervical cancer. Approximately 40 types of HPV infect the mucosal epithelium, whereas 60 types are cutaneous. More than half of sexually active women and men will be infected with one or more types of HPV in their lifetime, and some reports indicate that 80 percent of women will have anHPV infection by 50 years of age. Young women and men between 15 and 24 years of age account for half of the infections. HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. It's estimated that 20 million people are currently infected and 6.2 million will be newly infected each year. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | GOVERNMENT AGENCIES | CHILD, FEMALE | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | HPV | VACCINATION | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | CERVICAL CANCER | DISEASE PREVENTION | PRODUCT APPROVAL | PUBLIC OPINION | North America | Americas | Developed Countries | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Adolescents | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Immunization | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Cancer | Neoplasms | Prevention and Control | Legislation | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 313055 |
| 29. Peer Reviewed Title: HIV denial in the Internet era. Author: Smith TC; Novella SP Source: PLoS Medicine. 2007 Aug;4(8):e256. Abstract: It may seem remarkable that, 23 years after the identification of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), there is still denial that the virus is the cause of acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This denial was highlighted on an international level in 2000, when South African president Thabo Mbeki convened a group of panelists to discuss the cause of AIDS, acknowledging that he remained unconvinced that HIV was the cause. His ideas were derived at least partly from material he found on the Internet. Though Mbeki agreed later that year to step back from the debate, he subsequently suggested a re-analysis of health spending with a decreased emphasis on HIV/AIDS. HIV denial has taken root in the general population and has shown its potential to frustrate public education efforts and adversely affect public funding for AIDS research and prevention programs. For example, the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) was for many years on the front lines of AIDS education and activism. But now a San Francisco chapter of the group has joined the denialist movement, stating on its Web site that "HIV does not cause AIDS... HIV antibody tests are fl awed and dangerous...AIDS drugs are poison." (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: GLOBAL | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | MEN HAVING SEX WITH MEN | INTERNET | HIV TRANSMISSION | PSYCHOSOCIAL FACTORS | PUBLIC OPINION | BELIEFS | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Information Networks | Communication | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Attitudes | Psychological Factors | Culture | |