1. ![]() Title: Kangaroo mother care for low birth weight babies: a prospective observational study. Source: Journal of Nepal Paediatric Society. 2009 Jan-Jun;29(1):6-9. Abstract: Introduction: Kangaroo Mother Care is the low cost, humane technique for caring low birth weight babies by direct skin to contact with the mother. Objective: The Prospective observational study was done to see the effect of KMC especially on weight gain on low birth weight babies weighing 2000 grams or less at Special Care Baby Unit of Paropakar Maternity and Women's hospital, Kathmandu. Method: The study was conducted in Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of Paropakar Maternity and Women's Hospital over 7 months period May 2007 to Nov. 2008 (from Baishakh 2064 to Kartik 2065). The method of care consisted of skin to skin contact between the mother and the infant. Result: It was observed that babies had good weight gain of average 30gms/day and had short duration of hospital stay of average 9 days. Babies had less morbidities like hypothermia, apnea, skin infections and oral thrush.100% babies had exclusive breast feeding and KMC was acceptable to mothers. Conclusion: Kangaroo Mother Care shows early and good weight gain in low birth weight babies. It is simple, low cost technique and well acceptable by mother and family and can be continued at home. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | INFANT | LOW BIRTH WEIGHT | TREATMENT | INFANT HEALTH | GESTATIONAL AGE | BREASTFEEDING, EXCLUSIVE | COST EFFECTIVENESS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Weight | Body Weight | Physiology | Biology | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Child Health | Fetus | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Breastfeeding | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Evaluation Indexes | Quantitative Evaluation | Evaluation Document Number: 341512   |
2. Peer Reviewed Title: Nepal 2006: Results from the Demographic and Health Survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):71-76. Abstract: The Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2006 (NDHS 2006) was conducted by the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative NDHS 2006 were collected from 8,707 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 10,793 women aged 15-49 and 4,397 men aged 15-59. The fieldwork took place from 5 February to 18 August 2006. The summary statistics presented were taken from the Nepal country report. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | KAP SURVEYS | POPULATION | HEALTH STATUS INDEXES | FERTILITY | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS CHOSEN | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | CHILD NUTRITION | HIV TRANSMISSION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Health | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Nutrition | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases Document Number: 341083   |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Nepal 2006: results from the demographic and health survey. Source: Studies In Family Planning. 2009 Mar;40(1):71-6. Abstract: The Nepal Demographic and Health Survey 2006 (NDHS 2006) was conducted by the Ministry of Health and Population of Nepal with technical assistance from Macro International. Data for the nationally representative NDHS 2006 were collected from 8,707 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 10,793 women aged 15-49 and 4,397 men aged 15-59. The fieldwork took place from 5 February to 18 August 2006. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY RATE | CONTRACEPTION | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | INFANT MORTALITY | NUTRITION INDEXES | CHILD HEALTH | DISEASES | TREATMENT | KNOWLEDGE | HIV INFECTIONS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Nutrition | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases Document Number: 341336   |
4. Peer Reviewed Title: Pakistan 2006-07: results from the demographic and health survey. Source: Studies in Family Planning. 2009 Sep;40(3):252-257. Abstract: Data for the nationally representative PDHS 2006-07 were collected from 9,255 households, and complete interviews were conducted with 10,023 ever-married women aged 15-49. The fieldwork took place from early September 2006 and February 2007. Summary statistics presented are: 1) General characteristics of the population; 2) Fertility trends; 3) Fertility preferences; 4) Contraception; 5) Marital status; 6) Assistance during delivery; 7) Postpartum variables; 8) Infant mortality; and 9) Disease prevention and treatment. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | FERTILITY | AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATE | CONTRACEPTION | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | CONTRACEPTIVE PREVALENCE | MARITAL STATUS | INFANT MORTALITY | POSTPARTUM | HEALTH | KNOWLEDGE | AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | DISEASE PREVENTION | TREATMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Fertility Rate | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Family Planning | Contraceptive Usage | Nuptiality | Mortality | Puerperium | Reproduction | Sociocultural Factors | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Prevention and Control | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 339707   |
5. ![]() Title: Creating healthy families in Nepal: sustaining family planning practices among marginalized groups. Author: CORE Group Source: CORE Group, Washington, D.C., 2009 Mar. Abstract: This case study documents the sustainable activities and interventions of a USAID Flexible Fund Program, Valued Behavior for Healthy Families-A Model for Social Inclusion, that was implemented by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Center for Communications Programs through Save the Children/US in Nepal. Sustainable activities are defined here as those activities or practices that have been continued or improved after the project ended. The Valued Behavior project aimed to help women and couples from disadvantaged groups in Nepal realize their reproductive intentions through: a) increased knowledge and interest in family planning services through NGO involvement; b) improved quality of family planning (FP) services delivered by providers in selected facilities and the community; c) increased community access to FP services; and d) improved social and policy environment for FP and reproductive health services and behavior. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | SUMMARY REPORT | KNOWLEDGE | FAMILY PLANNING | SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT | POLICY | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Sociocultural Factors | Economic Factors | Political Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 328782   |
6. Title: Delivering services and influencing policy: health care professionals join forces to improve maternal, newborn, and child health. Author: Health Care Professional Association Writing Group Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 Jun;105(3):271-4. Abstract: This article reviews the major activities of health care professional organizations (HCPAs), and emphasizes the role they can play in advocating for women and children and influencing maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH) programs and policies. The ICM/FIGO joint effort to prevent postpartum hemorrhage and the 40-year partnership between the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Indian Health Service (IHS) are highlighted as examples of how and why HCPAs should assume a leadership role in advocacy work. The action-oriented multicountry HCPA workshops organized by the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (PMNCH) and the international HCPAs are also described. These capacity building workshops are aimed at strengthening the ability of HCPAs to organize, coordinate activities, and become more involved in program and policy development. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH PERSONNEL | CAPACITY BUILDING | MATERNAL HEALTH | CHILD HEALTH | ANTENATAL CARE | HEALTH POLICY | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Sustainability | Programs | Organization and Administration | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341372   |
7. ![]() Title: After receiving USAID | DELIVER Project logistics training, access to health products improves in Nepal. Author: John Snow [JSI]. DELIVER Source: Arlington, Virginia, JSI, DELIVER, 2009 Jul. [2] p. (Success Story) Abstract: Just three years ago, under the previous health commodity distribution system in Nepal, the average stockout rate for family planning was 8.2 percent; for maternal and child health commodities it was 22.9 percent. Many women and children did not have the health commodities they needed. To prevent stockouts and to increase the availability of health commodities nationwide, the USAID | DELIVER PROJECT partnered with the Government of Nepal / Ministry of Health and Population (Logistics Management Division / Department of Health Services [LMD / DOHS]) and others to develop a series of logistics training programs. The goal was to create an efficient pull system that the country could use to manage stock levels at all health facilities. The project and the LMD collaborated to successfully implement two training programs -- one for community logistics and one for web-based logistics management information systems (LMISs). Conducted by the Nepali government, the USAID | DELIVER PROJECT, and their partners, these trainings taught community and district health workers how to improve the national health commodity logistics system and how to ease the transition to the new district-level pull system, which allows each health facility to determine the amount of stock that it needs to order. As a result, after 25 of the poorly performing districts participated in the training programs, stockouts of key commodities in their health facilities -- condoms, vitamin A capsules, iron tablets, cotrimoxazole, oral rehydration salt, and oxytocin decreased, while product availability for the end user increased. (Excerpt) Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | SUMMARY REPORT | COMMUNITY-BASED DISTRIBUTION WORKERS | USAID | LOGISTICS | DISTRIBUTIONAL ACTIVITIES | TRAINING PROGRAMS | INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS | INTERNET | HEALTH FACILITIES | PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Community Workers | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Management | Organization and Administration | Program Activities | Programs | Education | Data Storage and Retrieval | Information Processing | Information | Information Networks | Communication Document Number: 331664   |
8. ![]() Title: Success story: Bangladesh averts a stock crisis with help from the USAID | DELIVER PROJECT. Author: John Snow [JSI]. DELIVER Source: Arlington, Virginia, JSI, DELIVER, 2009 Apr. [2] p. (USAID Deliver Project, Task Order 1) Abstract: In the fall of 2007, the Ministry of Health in Bangladesh faced a severe shortage of condoms in the public sector; countrywide stockouts were very likely. A shipment was underway, but despite negotiated contracts, the supplier made some last minute changes that were unacceptable to the Government of Bangladesh (GoB). While the GoB and the supplier continued to negotiate, the condom supply dwindled. December 2007 approached, and the condom stocks continued to go down. It soon became clear that negotiations with the supplier were not going to be resolved in time to head off a countrywide stockout of public sector condoms. As always, the Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP) and the USAID | DELIVER PROJECT jointly monitored the consumption and pipeline for public sector products; the project kept the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and other partners informed of the potential stock issues. The USAID | DELIVER PROJECT, in discussions with DGFP and local stakeholders, pursued various options for alleviating this short-term problem, including moving up other procurement ship dates and borrowing supplies. These solutions, however, would not be enough to fill the gap in time. At this point, after the project alerted USAID to the potential stockout, they agreed to airlift 6 million condoms to Bangladesh-in time to prevent a stockout. The project worked closely with the DGFP, with USAID in Washington and in Dhaka, as well as with the Bangladesh Social Marketing Company (SMC) to get the condoms into the country and through the various tiers of the supply chain. SMC, a recipient of USAID-donated condoms, agreed to receive and clear the emergency condom donation-the shipment came into the country quickly, without any disruption. In just one month, Bangladesh had received the USAID-donated condoms in-country, and the condoms were on their way through the supply chain to the end user. This action successfully averted a full blown stockout and gave the government time to sort out issues with the supplier. The contract negotiation was eventually completed and the first shipment arrived in-country in March 2008. At the time of delivery, condoms were still available because fewer condoms than usual were distributed during the shortages. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | SUMMARY REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | CONDOMS | CONTRACEPTIVE SECURITY | CONTRACEPTIVE IMPORTATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Barrier Methods | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Contraceptive Availability | Family Planning Program Administration | Family Planning Programs Document Number: 339992   |
9. ![]() Title: Learn without fear. Youth in action against violence in schools. Author: Plan International Deutschland Source: Hamburg, Germany, Plan International Deutschland, 2009 May. 63 p. Abstract: Plan Germany brought together children from Colombia, Germany, Ecuador, India, the Philippines, Tanzania, and Uganda to create a manual with exercises and activities to address school violence. Activities include identifying areas in school grounds which are less safe, understanding stereotypes, and helping someone who has been hurt or bullied. Language: English Keywords: ECUADOR | COLOMBIA | GERMANY | TANZANIA | UGANDA | INDIA | PHILIPPINES | TEACHING MATERIALS | SCHOOLS | YOUTH | ADOLESCENTS | VIOLENCE | PHYSICAL ABUSE | SEXUAL ABUSE | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | HUMAN RIGHTS | SAFETY | Developing Countries | South America, Western | South America | Latin America | Americas | South America, Northern | Europe, Central | Europe | Developed Countries | Africa, Eastern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Asia, Southern | Asia | Asia, Southeastern | Education | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Diseases | Political Factors | Public Health | Health Document Number: 331826   |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Emergency contraception: knowledge and attitudes of family physicians of a teaching hospital, Karachi, Pakistan. Author: Abdulghani HM; Karim SI; Irfan F Source: Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition. 2009 Jun;27(3):339-44. Abstract: This study was conducted to assess the knowledge of family medicine providers and their attitudes towards emergency contraception in a teaching hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. A 21-item questionnaire containing the demographic profile of respondents and questions concerning knowledge of and attitudes towards emergency contraception was distributed among participants. In total, 45 interviews were conducted, with a response rate of 100%, with faculty physicians (33%), residents (27%), medical officers (40%), 36% male and 64% female physicians; of them, the majority (64%) were married. Although the large majority (71%) of the respondents reported considerable familiarity with emergency contraception, objective assessment revealed deficiencies in their knowledge. About 38% of the participants incorrectly chose menstrual irregularity as the most common side-effect of progestin-only emergency contraception pills, and only 33% answered that emergency contraception was not an abortifacient while 42% were unsure. Forty percent of the physicians prescribed emergency contraception in the past. The large majority (71%) of the physicians were familiar with emergency contraception, yet deficiencies in knowledge inaccuracies were identified. Barriers to its use were identified as 'it will promote promiscuity' (31%), religious/ethical reasons (27%), liability (40%), teratogenicity (44%), and inexperience (40%). Overall attitudes regarding emergency contraception were positive; however, most (82%) physicians were unsatisfied with their current knowledge of emergency contraception, and there was a discrepancy between perceptions of physicians and actual knowledge. Interventions providing education to family physicians regarding emergency contraception is strongly recommended. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PHYSICIANS | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | ATTITUDES | KNOWLEDGE | PERCEPTION | FAMILY PLANNING | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Contraception | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 341579   |
11. Title: Awareness and views of the law on termination of pregnancy and reasons for resorting to an abortion among a group of women attending a clinic in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Author: Abeyasinghe NL; Weerasundera BJ; Jayawardene PA; Somarathna SD Source: Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine. 2009 Apr;16(3):134-7. Abstract: In Sri Lanka, induced abortion is a criminal offence except to save the life of the mother. This study determined the awareness and views of the law on abortion among women seeking an abortion. Three hundred and thirteen women were interviewed. The characteristics of the study group are discussed. 65.8% of the respondents stated they knew the current law, 25.6% stated they did not and 8.3% were unsure. On detailed analysis of each respondent's knowledge regarding the situations where abortion is legalized including those who stated that they did not know the law, only 11.2% had an accurate knowledge. More than 75% stated that abortion should be legalized when the mother's life was in danger, where there was pregnancy after rape or incest, when there was psychiatric illness in the mother and when there were fetal anomalies. Reasons for resorting to an abortion are discussed. Although 11.2% were aware of the law, there was no difference in the reasons for resorting to an abortion when compared with those who were unaware of the law. This study highlights the fact that availability of abortion services to women depend not only on the law and its awareness, but on how it is interpreted and enforced. Language: English Keywords: SRI LANKA | RESEARCH REPORT | ABORTION | ABORTION LAW | AWARENESS | INTERVIEWS | ABORTION RATE | ATTITUDES | CONTRACEPTIVE USAGE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Contraception Document Number: 342188   Notification |
12. Peer Reviewed Title: Factors affecting awareness of emergency contraception among college students in Kathmandu, Nepal. Author: Adhikari R Source: BMC Women's Health. 2009 Sep 17;9(1):27. Abstract: ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: In Nepal, Emergency Contraception (EC) could play a critical role in reducing unintended pregnancies, but very few people aware about it. This paper aims to investigate the level of awareness and factors influencing awareness of EC among college students. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was carried out in April-May 2006. Structured self-administered questionnaires were administered to 1,137 college students (573 males and 564 females) in Kathmandu district. The association between awareness of EC and the explanatory variables were first assessed in bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test. The associations were further explored using a multivariate logistic analysis. RESULTS: Only about two-thirds of college students (68%) had ever heard about EC. Bivariate analysis shows that males were more aware (72%) of EC than were females (64%). Similarly, the awareness level was significantly higher among younger, unmarried youth who were from outside Kathmandu Valley, who lived with friends, and who had received reproductive health (RH) education in school/college. The study also found that students' sex, permanent place of residence (district), and RH education are significant predictors of awareness of EC. Males are 1.5 times more likely to be aware of EC compared to females. Furthermore, students who lived in Kathmandu Valley were 41% less likely to be aware of EC than were students from outside Kathmandu Valley. On the other hand, those students who received RH education in school/college were almost nine times more likely to be aware of EC compared to those who did not receive such education. CONCLUSIONS: Awareness of the EC is low among college students in Nepal. Health education initiatives should target students as they are more likely to be sexually active. There is a need to further educate students about EC which can help to reduce unintended pregnancies, many of which result in unsafe abortion and take a large toll on women's health. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | STUDENTS | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | AWARENESS | QUESTIONNAIRES | LIVING ARRANGEMENTS | SEX FACTORS | AGE FACTORS | SEX EDUCATION | PREGNANCY, UNPLANNED | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Education | Contraception | Family Planning | Knowledge | Sociocultural Factors | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Reproductive Behavior | Fertility | Population Dynamics Document Number: 342836   |
13. ![]() Peer Reviewed Title: Premarital sexual behavior among male college students of Kathmandu, Nepal. Author: Adhikari R; Tamang J Source: BMC Public Health. 2009 Jul;9(241):1-9. Abstract: A cross-sectional survey of male college students in Kathmandu was conducted between April and May 2006. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 573 male students. Association between premarital sex and the explanatory variables was assessed. Despite the religious and cultural restrictions, about two-fifths of survey respondents (39%) reported that they had had premarital sex. The study also showed that substantial proportions of students indulge in sexual activities as well as risky sexual behavior. Sex with commercial sex workers and multiple sex partners, and inconsistent use of condoms with non-regular partners were common among the students. Less than two in five male students (57%) had used condoms at first sexual intercourse. Students aged 20 and above were more likely to have had premarital sex compared with younger students ages 15-19. Students who believe in Hindu religion were more than two times more likely to have premarital sex compared with those who follow other religions. Participants who had close unmarried friends who experienced premarital sexual intercourse were eight times more likely to be sexually active than those who did not have such sexually active friends. School- or college-based sexuality education could benefit out-of-school youths as well, because their partners often are students. Language: English Keywords: NEPAL | RESEARCH REPORT | STUDENTS | MEN | PREMARITAL SEX BEHAVIOR | CONDOM USE | PREVALENCE | ATTITUDES | RELIGIOUS ASPECTS | AGE FACTORS | SEX EDUCATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Education | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Behavior | Behavior | Risk Reduction Behavior | Measurement | Research Methodology | Psychological Factors | Religion | Sociocultural Factors | Population Characteristics Document Number: 339893   |
14. Peer Reviewed Title: Evaluation of mifepristone as a once a month contraceptive pill. Author: Agarwal M; Das V; Agarwal A; Pandey A; Srivastava D Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2009 May;200(5):e27-9. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of mifepristone as a contraceptive pill. STUDY DESIGN: A prospective case-control study was conducted in a tertiary care center of North India. The study group (n = 86) was given 200-mg mifepristone tablets on the 16th day of the menstrual cycle. The control group (n = 92) received combined oral contraceptive (COC) as per protocol. Subjects were followed for drug compliance, satisfaction, side effects, and failure. RESULTS: Acceptability of mifepristone was significantly higher in educated population (P < .001), with fewer side effects (P = .001), good satisfaction (P < .001), and higher compliance rate (P = .05). The oral contraceptive pill group had higher adverse biochemical parameters. CONCLUSION: Mifepristone can be used as a monthly contraceptive pill effectively. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES | RU-486 | TIME FACTORS | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Hormone Antagonists | Hormones | Endocrine System | Physiology | Biology | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health Document Number: 341243   |
15. Title: Spontaneous vesicovaginal fistula caused by genitourinary aspergillosis. Author: Agarwal N; Seth A; Kulshrestha V; Kochar S; Kriplani A Source: International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics. 2009 Apr;105(1):63-4. Abstract: Genitourinary aspergillosis is rare in patients who are not immunocompromised. A 39-year-old woman presented with vaginal urinary leakage with no history of previous trauma, procedure, or fever. The patient's last delivery had been by cesarean 12 years previously and she had no history of difficult labor. Six months prior to presenting, the patient had been scheduled to undergo abdominal hysterectomy for menorrhagia along with repair of a surgical hernia; only the hernia was repaired at that time as dense adhesions prevented the hysterectomy. The patient had been amenorrheic since that surgery and her incontinence began 6 days prior to presentation. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | SUMMARY REPORT | CASE HISTORIES | CLIENTS | FISTULA | AMENORRHEA | VAGINAL ABNORMALITIES | SURGERY | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | UROGENITAL EFFECTS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Diseases | Menstruation Disorders | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Infections | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 341383   |
16. Title: Prevalence of Candida species and potential risk factors for vulvovaginal candidiasis in Aligarh, India. Author: Ahmad A; Khan AU Source: European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology. 2009 May;144(1):68-71. Abstract: OBJECTIVES: The objectives were to determine the frequency of Candida species in women of different age groups as well as to suggest the criteria for the diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC). STUDY DESIGN: A prospective study of vulvovaginal candidiasis was carried out using laboratory diagnosis, with the estimation of vaginal pH and the direct microscopic and biochemical examination of vaginal discharge/secretions. Vaginal cultures for Candida species were collected from 1050 women with vulvovaginal symptoms. RESULTS: Out of 1050 women, 215 (20.47%) were positive for Candida species. Of 215 women, 172 (80%) had pH within the normal range and 167 (77.67%) were showing yeast cells and mycelia on direct microscopic examination. Candida albicans accounted for 46.9% of cases, Candida glabrata 36.7%, Candida parapsilosis 10.2%, Candida tropicalis 2.8%, Candida krusei 1.4%, and Candida kiefer 1.9%. The frequency of culture positivity was related to pregnancy (P<0.001), an increase in parity (P<0.001), and use of oral contraceptives (P<0.001) and antibiotics (P<0.001). The most common signs and symptoms in 215 women with positive cultures were pruritus with or without vaginal discharge and vaginal erythema. CONCLUSION: Our study suggests that vulvovaginal candidiasis can only be diagnosed by using clinical criteria in correlation with vulvovaginal symptoms and Candida cultures. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | CLIENTS | CANDIDIASIS | RISK FACTORS | PREVALENCE | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | PRURITUS | VAGINITIS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Bacterial and Fungal Diseases | Infections | Diseases | Health | Measurement | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Dermatitis | Vaginal Abnormalities Document Number: 342002   |
17. Peer Reviewed Title: Community-based skilled birth attendants in Bangladesh: attending deliveries at home. Author: Ahmed T; Jakaria SM Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2009 May;17(33):45-50. Abstract: Only 15% of births in Bangladesh in 2007 were delivered at health facilities, but the increase over previous years has been significant, and treatment-seeking from a medically trained provider for obstetric complications has also increased. A programme to create a cadre of skilled birth attendants for home births was launched by the Government of Bangladesh in 2004. The training, for community-based health and family planning fieldworkers, covers 74 essential midwifery skills and danger signs for referral. Training of trainers and supervisors for the fieldworkers was also initiated. By the end of 2008 an estimated 4,000 out of a proposed 13,500 skilled birth attendants and 50 of 4,000 proposed supervisors had been trained and were working in 56 districts. There needs to be a full evaluation of the programme and whether it has reduced maternal deaths. Bangladesh now needs to decide how long to invest in this programme and/or whether to train a new cadre of fully qualified midwives, as proposed by the Nursing Council. We believe this programme can only be an interim measure, not a long-term solution, as more women decide to seek institutional delivery and professional midwifery care. For the moment, though, task-shifting seems to have yielded beneficial results and important insights into human resources planning for safe motherhood in Bangladesh. Spanish Abstract: En 2007, sólo el 15% de los partos en Bangladesh ocurrieron en establecimientos de salud. En comparación con años anteriores, este porcentaje ha aumentado considerablemente, al igual que la búsqueda de tratamiento de complicaciones obstétricas brindado por un profesional médico capacitado. En 2004, el Gobierno de Bangladesh lanzó un programa para crear una categoría de asistentes de partos calificados que ayudaran con los partos domiciliares. La capacitación de trabajadores comunitarios de la salud y de planificación familiar, abarca 74 habilidades esenciales de partería y los signos de alarma para dar referencias. También se inició la capacitación de capacitadores y supervisores de los trabajadores de campo. A finales de 2008, aproximadamente 4,000 de los 13,500 asistentes de partos calificados y 50 de los 4,000 supervisores propuestos habían recibido capacitación y estaban trabajando en 56 distritos. Es necesario realizar una evaluación completa del programa y determinar si éste ha logrado disminuir la tasa de muertes maternas. Bangladesh debe decidir por cuánto tiempo continuar invirtiendo en este programa y/o si capacitar a un nuevo grupo de parteras profesionales plenamente cualificadas, como propone el Consejo de Enfermería. Estimamos que este programa es sólo una medida provisional, no una solución de largo plazo, ya que cada vez más aumenta el número de mujeres que deciden buscar atención institucional y cuidados de partería profesionales. No obstante, por ahora la reasignación de tareas parece haber dado buenos resultados e importantes datos sobre los recursos humanos en la planificación de la maternidad sin riesgos en Bangladesh. French Abstract: Au Bangladesh, en 2007, 15% seulement des naissances avaient eu lieu dans un établissement de santé, mais la hausse par rapport aux précédentes années était sensible et le recours aux services d'un prestataire formé médicalement pour les complications obstétricales avait aussi augmenté. En 2004, le Gouvernement a lancé un programme de création d'un groupe d'accoucheuses qualifiés pour les naissances à domicile. La formation des agents de santé et de planification familiale communautaires couvre 74 compétences obstétricales essentielles et les signes de danger exigeant le transfert de la patiente. La formation des formateurs et des superviseurs des agents de terrain a aussi été lancée. Fin 2008, environ 4000 des 13 500 accoucheuses qualifiés envisagés et 50 des 4000 superviseurs prévus avaient été formés et travaillaient dans 56 districts. Il faut mener une évaluation complète du programme et déterminer s'il a diminué les décès maternels. Le Bangladesh doit maintenant décider pendant combien de temps investir dans ce programme et/ou s'il souhaite former un nouveau groupe de sages-femmes pleinement qualifiées, ainsi que l'a proposé le Conseil des infirmières. Nous pensons que ce programme ne peut être qu'une mesure provisoire et non une solution à long terme, à mesure que davantage de femmes opteront pour un accouchement institutionnel et des soins de sages-femmes professionnelles. Pour le moment, néanmoins, la délégation des tâches semble avoir produit des résultats positifs et des connaissances précieuses sur la planification des ressources humaines pour une maternité à moindre risque au Bangladesh. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | PROGRESS REPORT | PILOT PROJECTS | COMMUNITY WORKERS | MIDWIVES AND MIDWIFERY | CHILDBIRTH | REFERRAL AND CONSULTATION | GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS | TRAINING OF TRAINERS | MEDICAL SUPERVISION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Training Programs | Education | Supervision | Management Document Number: 342014   |
18. Peer Reviewed Title: Enhanced immunogenicity of an oral inactivated cholera vaccine in infants in Bangladesh obtained by zinc supplementation and by temporary withholding breast-feeding. Author: Ahmed T; Svennerholm AM; Al Tarique A; Sultana GN; Qadri F Source: Vaccine. 2009 Feb 25;27(9):1433-9. Abstract: The killed oral cholera vaccine Dukoral is recommended for adults and only children over 2 years of age, although cholera is seen frequently in younger children and there is an urgent need for a vaccine for them. Since decreased immunogenicity of oral vaccines in children in developing countries is a critical problem, we tested interventions to enhance responses to Dukoral. We evaluated the effect on the immune responses by temporarily withholding breast-feeding or by giving zinc supplementation. Two doses of Dukoral consisting of killed cholera vibrios and cholera B subunit were given to 6-18 months old Bangladeshi children (n=340) and safety and immunogenicity studied. Our results showed that two doses of the vaccine were safe and induced antibacterial (vibriocidal) antibody responses in 57% and antitoxin responses in 85% of the children. Immune responses were comparable after intake of one and two doses. Temporary withholding breast-feeding for 3 h before immunization or supplementation with 20 mg of zinc per day for 42 days resulted in increased magnitude of vibriocidal antibodies (77% and 79% responders, respectively). Administration of vaccines without buffer or in water did not result in reduction of vibriocidal responses. This study demonstrates that the vaccine is safe and immunogenic in children under 2 years of age and that simple interventions can enhance immune responses in young children. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | INFANT | CHOLERA | ZINC | HUMAN MILK | VACCINES | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | CONTRACEPTIVE USE-EFFECTIVENESS | AUTOIMMUNE RESPONSE | SAFETY | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Bacterial and Fungal Diseases | Infections | Diseases | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Lactation | Maternal Physiology | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Drugs | Treatment | Contraceptive Effectiveness | Contraception | Family Planning | Antibodies | Immunologic Factors | Immunity | Immune System | Public Health Document Number: 341051   |
19. Peer Reviewed Title: Determinants of perceived morbidity and use of health services by children less than 15 years old in rural Bangladesh. Author: Alam N; van Ginneken JK; Timaeus I Source: Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2009 Jan;13(1):119-29. Abstract: This study examined the association of a number of social and economic and other factors with perceived morbidity and use of health services by children in rural Bangladesh, using the data of a health and socioeconomic survey conducted in Matlab, Bangladesh in 1996. One of the factors of interest was women's social position measured with indicators such as their education, domestic autonomy, social networks and social prestige. Other factors of interest were economic in nature and included the availability of high-quality primary health care (PHC) facilities in one part of the study area. A total of 52% of the 3,793 children below 15 had an episode of an acute illness in the month preceding the interview. The medical care sought for acute illnesses was grouped into four categories: medical doctors, paramedics, traditional and untrained village doctors (including drug sellers) and homeopaths. A total of 55% of the children who were sick in the past month consulted any type of health provider. Logistic regression was used to estimate the effects of the various independent variables on the two dependent variables: perceived morbidity of under-15 children and health service use for under-15 sick children. The results revealed that age of the child was the most important factor influencing perceived morbidity while social and economic variables were in general not related to perceived morbidity. Prolonged and severe illnesses and illnesses of young and male children were more likely to be treated by health providers, particularly by physicians. While women's education and social network influenced visits to any health providers socioeconomic indicators influenced visits to physicians. Availability of PHC facilities in one part of the study area also led to more use of modern medical care. The findings highlight that improvement of women's education and of social and economic status in general, in combination with more availability of high-quality PHC will in Bangladesh lead to better health care of children. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | CHILDREN | MORBIDITY | INFECTIONS | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | BEHAVIOR | MATERNAL HEALTH | EDUCATION | SOCIAL NETWORKS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 330857   |
| 20. Title: High prevalence of HIV infection among injection drug users (IDUs) in Hyderabad and Sukkur, Pakistan. Author: Altaf A; Saleem N; Abbas S; Muzaffar R Source: JPMA. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association. 2009 Mar;59(3):136-40. Abstract: OBJECTIVE: To estimate size of injection drug users (IDU), determine their high risk behaviours and assess the prevalence of HIV. METHOD: As part of second generation surveillance (SGS), we investigated specific demographic and behavioural characteristics of IDUs in Hyderabad and Sukkur in 2005. It was a cross sectional study. The survey was preceded by geographic mapping to determine size estimation and to define sampling procedures prior to integrated behavioural and biological survey (IBBS). A sample size of at least 400 was calculated for each city. Besides calculating frequencies, chi square was used for comparing variables among HIV positive and negative IDUs like time elapsed as IDU, number of injections, sharing needles and self perception of acquiring HIV infection. RESULTS: A total of 800 (Hyderabad 398; Sukkur 402) questionnaires and DBS samples were collected. The estimated number of IDUs in both cities was 3,225 (Hyderabad 975 and Sukkur 2250 respectively). Average age of IDUs in Hyderabad was 36.5 years and 34.6 years in Sukkur. Sharing of injection equipment for last injection was reported by 34 (8.5%) in Hyderabad and 135 (33.6%) in Sukkur. In both cities behaviours such as injecting drugs for more than 10 years (p = 0.00) and injecting four or more times in a day (p = 0.11) were significantly associated with seropositivity of HIV infection. In Hyderabad the seroprevalence of HIV was 25.4% (101/398) and in Sukkur it was 19.2% (77/402). CONCLUSION: The burden of HIV among IDUs in Hyderabad and Sukkur is extremely high and can play a significant role in transmitting the infection to other vulnerable groups. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | IV DRUG USERS | URBAN POPULATION | PREVALENCE | HIV INFECTIONS | RISK BEHAVIOR | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | NEEDLE SHARING | SELF-PERCEPTION | RISK ASSESSMENT | DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Drug Use and Abuse | Behavior | Population Characteristics | Population | Measurement | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Perception | Psychological Factors | Evaluation Document Number: 330915   |
21. Peer Reviewed Title: High-risk behaviours among juvenile prison inmates in Pakistan. Author: Altaf A; Janjua NZ; Kristensen S; Zaidi NA; Memon A; Hook EW 3rd; Vermund SH; Shah SA Source: Public Health. 2009 Jul 15; Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To assess the sexual- and drug-use-related risk behaviours of male juvenile detainees in Karachi, Pakistan. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted of prison inmates aged 15-21 years in Karachi Juvenile Prison in 2002. In total, 321 inmates were interviewed about sexual orientation and behaviours, and knowledge about human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Urine specimens were collected and tested for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae using ligase chain reaction. RESULTS: A substantial proportion (n=111, 34.6%) of the participants were sexually active. Sixty-two (19%) and 67 (21%) had had sex with a male or female before incarceration, respectively. Twenty-seven (8.4%) participants had an STI, and 50% of the 109 sexually active participants had had multiple sexual partners. Use of addictive substances was associated with sexual activity. The mean knowledge score computed from the sum of 16 items was 4.7, with a median of 2.9. A large proportion (40%) of participants knew about condoms, but very few (3.4%) had ever used one. The mean+/-standard deviation risk score from nine items was 2.4+/-1.7. On the basis of behavioural and biological markers, 117 (36.4%) participants had high-risk behaviour. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, knowledge, risk perception and age were predictive of higher risk. CONCLUSIONS: HIV risk behaviours are common among adolescent inmates. Although inmates do have knowledge about modes of transmission and condom use, the use of condoms is significantly low. Interventions are needed for behavioural change among this group. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | YOUTH | PRISONERS | SEX BEHAVIOR | DRUG USE AND ABUSE | ALCOHOL USE AND ABUSE | KNOWLEDGE | SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Reproductive Tract Infections | Infections | Diseases | Viral Diseases Document Number: 342285   |
22. Title: Socioeconomic determinants of age at first birth in rural areas of Bangladesh. Author: Aminul Haque M; Sayem AM Source: Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health. 2009 Jan;21(1):104-11. Abstract: The age at first birth is very low under existing rural sociocultural settings in Bangladesh. This study examined the socioeconomic and cultural determinants of age at first birth. The study subjects were married women aged 15 to 29 years in 2 rural areas that were identified through a multistage sampling technique. To collect the relevant information, a semistructured interviewer schedule was applied to the eligible women. This study found that 72.8% women gave first birth at <20 years of age with mean age at first birth 18.74 years. Simple linear regression model explained 30.9% of variance in age at first live birth. Among socioeconomic and cultural determinants, family pressure explained the most significant variance. It is really difficult to reduce fertility in complex sociocultural settings in rural Bangladesh. However, the findings of this study may provide an answer to increase the age at first birth and hence to reduce the high fertility among these group of women. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RESEARCH REPORT | RURAL AREAS | WOMEN | YOUTH | FIRST BIRTH | AGE FACTORS | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | CULTURE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Geographic Factors | Population | Demographic Factors | Population Characteristics | Pregnancy History | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 330710   |
| 23. 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   |
24. Title: Collecting reliable information about violence against women safely in household interviews: experience from a large-scale national survey in South Asia. Author: Andersson N; Cockcroft A; Ansari N; Omer K; Chaudhry UU; Khan A; Pearson L Source: Violence Against Women. 2009 Apr;15(4):482-96. Abstract: This article describes the first national survey of violence against women in Pakistan from 2001 to 2004 covering 23,430 women. The survey took account of methodological and ethical recommendations, ensuring privacy of interviews through one person interviewing the mother-in-law while another interviewed the eligible woman privately. The training module for interviewers focused on empathy with respondents, notably increasing disclosure rates. Only 3% of women declined to participate, and 1% were not permitted to participate. Among women who disclosed physical violence, only one third had previously told anyone. Surveys of violence against women in Pakistan not using methods to minimize underreporting could seriously underestimate prevalence. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA COLLECTION | DATA QUALITY | RELIABILITY | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | SAFETY | INTERVIEWS | PROGRAM EVALUATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Data Analysis | Measurement | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Public Health | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration Document Number: 341635   |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Quality of obstetric care in public-sector facilities and constraints to implementing emergency obstetric care services: evidence from high- and low-performing districts of Bangladesh. Author: Anwar I; Kalim N; Koblinsky M Source: Journal of Health, Population, and Nutrition. 2009 Apr;27(2):139-55. Abstract: This study explored the quality of obstetric care in public-sector facilities and the constraints to programming comprehensive essential obstetric care (EOC) services in rural areas of Khulna and Sylhet divisions, relatively high- and low-performing areas of Bangladesh respectively. Quality was explored by physically inspecting all public-sector EOC facilities and the constraints through in-depth interviews with public-sector programme managers and service providers. Distribution of the functional EOC facilities satisfied the United Nation's minimum criteria of at least one comprehensive EOC and four basic EOC facilities for every 500,000 people in Khulna but not in Sylhet region. Human-resource constraints were the major barrier for maternal health. Sanctioned posts for nurses were inadequate in rural areas of both the divisions; however, deployment and retention of trained human resources were more problematic in rural areas of Sylhet. Other problems also plagued care, including unavailability of blood in rural settings and lack of use of evidence-based techniques. The overall quality of care was better in the EOC facilities of Khulna division than in Sylhet. 'Context' of care was also different in these two areas: the population in Sylhet is less literate, more conservative, and faces more geographical and sociocultural barriers in accessing services. As a consequence of both care delivered and the context, more normal vaginal and caesarian-section deliveries were carried out in the public-sector EOC facilities in the Khulna region, with the exception of the medical college hospitals. To improve maternal healthcare, there is a need for a human-resource plan that increases the number of posts in rural areas and ensures availability. All categories of maternal healthcare providers also need training on evidence-based techniques. While the centralized push system of management has its strengths, special strategies for improving the response in the low-performing areas is urgently warranted. Language: English Keywords: BANGLADESH | RURAL AREAS | RESEARCH REPORT | OBSTETRICS | EMERGENCY SERVICES | IMPLEMENTATION | MATERNAL HEALTH SERVICES | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | OBSTACLES | HEALTH FACILITIES | PUBLIC SECTOR | HUMAN RESOURCES | BLOOD SUPPLY | SAFE MOTHERHOOD | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Geographic Factors | Population | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Programs | Organization and Administration | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation | Macroeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Equipment and Supplies | Medical Procedures | Maternal Health Document Number: 341937   |
26. ![]() Title: PRISM tools for assessing, monitoring, and evaluating RHIS performance. Author: Aqil A; Lippeveld T Source: Chapel Hill, North Carolina, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Carolina Population Center [CPC], MEASURE Evaluation, 2009 Mar. [32] p. (MS-09-34USAID Cooperative Agreement No. GPO-A-00-03-00003-00) Abstract: PRISM Framework and its tools applications have expanded since 2004. Now it has been applied in Pakistan, Uganda, South Africa, Mexico, Paraguay, Honduras, Haiti, China and Cote d'Ivore for assessment and evaluation. It has been applied in diverse countries of Africa, Asia, Latin America and Carribean continents. While these applications showed the strengths and appropriateness of PRISM Framework and its tools in identifying strengths and weaknesses of the routine information systems, they brought some challenges to attention. First, to make a distinction between RHIS performance indicators -accuracy, timeliness and completeness, from their counterpart processes. Second, to keep minimum variables in various tools for triangulation of information to avoid respondent's burden of filling the details. Third, better measurement of use of information. Thus, there was a need to revise the PRISM tools. Uganda PRISM evaluation in 2007 for testing its reliability and validity also helped to make the revisions. PRISM tools version 3.0 meets old and new challenges in assessing, monitoring and evaluation of RHIS. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | MEXICO | HONDURAS | HAITI | CHINA | PARAGUAY | SOUTH AFRICA | UGANDA | SUMMARY REPORT | EVALUATION | INFORMATION PROCESSING | DATA COLLECTION | MANAGEMENT | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | North America | Americas | Central America | Latin America | Caribbean | Asia, Eastern | South America, Central | South America | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Africa, Eastern | Information | Research Methodology | Organization and Administration | Programs Document Number: 339994   |
27. Peer Reviewed Title: Education gender gaps in Pakistan: Is the labor market to blame? Author: Aslam M Source: Economic Development and Cultural Change. 2009 Jul;57(4):747-784. Abstract: Differential labor market returns to male and female education are one potential explanation for large gender gaps in education in Pakistan. We empirically test this explanation by estimating private returns to education separately for male and female wage earners. This article contributes to the literature by using a variety of methodologies (ordinary least squares, Heckman correction, two-stage least squares, and household fixed effects) in order to estimate economic returns to education. The latest nationally representative data-the Pakistan Integrated Household Survey (2002)-are used. Earnings function estimates consistently reveal a sizable gender asymmetry in economic returns to education, with returns to women's education being substantially and statistically significantly higher than men's. The return to an additional year of schooling ranges between 7% and 11% for men and between 13% and 18% for women. There are also large, direct returns to women's education at low levels of schooling, and the education-earnings profile is more convex for women than for men. However, a decomposition of the gender wage gap (into the component "explained" by differing male and female endowments and the residual component) suggests that there is highly differentiated treatment by employers. We conclude that the total labor market returns are much higher for men, despite returns to education being higher for women. This suggests that parents may have an investment motive in allocating more resources to boys than to girls within households. Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | STATISTICAL REGRESSION | MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS | MATHEMATICAL MODEL | LABOR FORCE | SPOUSE | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | GENDER ISSUES | SEX FACTORS | INEQUALITIES | INCOME | PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Data Analysis | Research Methodology | Theoretical Models | Human Resources | Economic Factors | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child Rearing | Behavior Document Number: 341095   |
28. Title: Sonographic findings of uterine rupture with expulsion of the fetus into broad ligament. Author: Attarde VY; Patil P; Chaudhari R; Zope N; Apte A Source: Journal of Clinical Ultrasound. 2009 Jan;37(1):50-2. Abstract: We report the sonographic findings of a rare case of uterine rupture with extrusion of the fetus into the broad ligament during a second-trimester abortion. Sonography revealed the empty uterus with an indistinct defect on the side wall and the dead fetus lying outside, surrounded by a thin membrane. At surgery, the uterine rupture was confirmed with the fetus lying in the broad ligament. This study shows the importance of timely sonography in second-trimester abortion, enabling immediate management and preventing further complications. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | WOMEN | UTERINE PERFORATION | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | ULTRASONICS | UTERINE EFFECTS | ABORTION | MEDICAL PROCEDURES | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Demographic Factors | Population | Perforations | Diseases | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Uterus | Genitalia, Female | Genitalia | Urogenital System | Physiology | Biology | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning Document Number: 330846   Notification |
| 29. Title: Quality-of-life assessment of family adopters through user perspectives in the District of Karimnagar. Author: Avasarala K Source: Indian Journal of Community Medicine. 2009 Jan;34(1):24-28. Abstract: Background: Small families adopting family planning are usually considered happy families. They are expected to lead a better qualitative life. Quality-of-life (QOL) is routinely assessed for knowing patients' health status. Recently, the QOL concept has become increasingly popular for evaluating the impact of public health interventions. Hitherto, QOL is usually assessed by means of program achievements or indicators, which may sometimes be misleading. Hence, the new culture of QOL assessment by means of user perspectives is now becoming popular. Research Questions: 1) Is the quality-of-life of family planning (FP) adopters better than that of non-FP adopters? 2) Are the user perspectives helpful in QOL assessment? Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among 50 FP adopting families and 50 non-FP adopting families from the village of Vutoor and the city of Karimnagar in Andhra Pradesh. Sampling Methods: Random sampling, Proportions and Chi square test. Results: Program perspectives revealed a better standard of living for FP adopters because they have amenities like housing, television, and vehicles and less mortality and morbidity (P < 0.001). However, they lack positive feelings towards life, general adaptation, personal relationships, and leisure opportunities. Finally, self-assessment by FP adopters themselves revealed no significant increase in their qualitative life after family planning (P = 0.05). Conclusions: While assessing the impact of a health program on quality-of-life, multiple methods of assessments including user perspectives are better than program indicators alone. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | CLIENTS | FAMILY PLANNING | QUALITY OF LIFE | LIFE STYLE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Social Welfare | Economic Factors | Behavior Document Number: 328705   |
30. Peer Reviewed Title: Domestic violence against women in eastern India: a population-based study on prevalence and related issues. Author: Babu BV; Kar SK Source: BMC Public Health. 2009;9:129. Abstract: BACKGROUND: Violence against women is now widely recognised as an important public health problem, owing to its health consequences. Violence against women among many Indian communities on a regularly basis goes unreported. The objective of this study is to report the prevalence and other related issues of various forms of domestic violence against women from the eastern zone of India. METHODS: It is a population-based study covering both married women (n = 1718) and men (n = 1715) from three of the four states of Eastern India selected through a systematic multistage sampling strategy. Interviews were conducted using separate pre-piloted structured questionnaires for women (victimization) and men (perpetration). Women were asked whether their husband or any other family members committed violent acts against them. And men were asked whether they had ever perpetrated violent acts against their wives. Three principle domestic violence outcome variables (physical, psychological and sexual violence) were determined by response to a set of questions for each variable. In addition, data on socio-economic characteristics were collected. Descriptive statistics, bi- and multivariate analyses were done. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of physical, psychological, sexual and any form of violence among women of Eastern India were 16%, 52%, 25% and 56% respectively. These rates reported by men were 22%, 59%, 17% and 59.5% respectively. Men reported higher prevalence of all forms of violence apart from sexual violence. Husbands were mostly responsible for violence in majority of cases and some women reported the involvement of husbands' parents. It is found that various acts of violence were continuing among majority of women who reported violence. Some socio-economic characteristics of women have significant association with the occurrence of domestic violence. Urban residence, older age, lower education and lower family income are associated with occurrence of domestic violence. Multivariate logistic regressions revealed that the physical violence has significant association with state, residence (rural or urban), age and occupation of women, and monthly family income. Similar associations are found for psychological violence (with residence, age, education and occupation of the women and monthly family income) and sexual violence (with residence, age and educational level of women). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of domestic violence in Eastern India is relatively high compared to majority of information available from India and confirms that domestic violence is a universal phenomenon. The primary healthcare institutions in India should institutionalise the routine screening and treatment for violence related injuries and trauma. Also, these results provide vital information to assess the situation to develop public health interventions, and to sensitise the concerned agencies to implement the laws related to violence against women. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SAMPLING STUDIES | HOUSEHOLDS | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | PREVALENCE | PHYSICAL ABUSE | PSYCHOLOGICAL ABUSE | SEXUAL ABUSE | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Crime | Social Problems | Measurement | Violence | Behavior | Aggression | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors Document Number: 341406   |
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