1.  Title: Early diagnosis, follow-up, and prenatal treatment of a case of TRAP sequence occurring in a dichorionic triamniotic triplet pregnancy. Author: Cavoretto P; Serafini A; Valsecchi L; Lanna M; Rustico MA Source: Journal of Clinical Ultrasound. 2009 Jul-Aug;37(6):350-3. Abstract: We are reporting a case of twin reversed arterial perfusion (TRAP) sequence occurring in a dichorionic triamniotic triplet pregnancy with successful percutaneous prenatal treatment and excellent neonatal outcome. TRAP sequence was diagnosed at 11 weeks in a spontaneous dichorionic-triamniotic triplet. Sonographic assessment showed persistent arterial flow and development of hydrops in the acardiac twin. Percutaneous cord interstitial laser coagulation was performed, and the co-twin subsequently developed growth restriction. The 9-month-old twins have a normal developmental course. This report confirms that fetal intervention is indicated in cases of TRAP sequence in which the acardiac twin presents a significant enlargement on follow-up sonographic examinations. Language: English Keywords: ITALY | SUMMARY REPORT | CASE HISTORIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | FETUS | MULTIPLE BIRTH | FETAL MEMBRANES | VASCULAR DISEASES | GROWTH | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | ULTRASONICS | AMNIOCENTESIS | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | Developed Countries | Europe, Southern | Europe | Data Collection | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Diseases | Child Development | Biology | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses Document Number: 342793 |
2.  Peer Reviewed Title: Implications of incorrect determination of fetal sex by ultrasound. Author: Chigbu CO; Odugu B; Okezie O Source: International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2008 Mar;100(3):287-290. Abstract: The objective was to assess the experiences of women following incorrect determination of fetal sex by ultrasound. A 3-year prospective cohort study of 102 women with discordance between fetal sex determined by ultrasound scan and birth sex. Participants were interviewed using 2 structured pretested questionnaires. The first questionnaire was undertaken within 24 h of delivery. The women were followed up with a second questionnaire 6-9 months later. In-depth interviews were also carried out at this time. Women who had received an incorrect determination of fetal sex by ultrasound experienced marital conflicts, domestic violence, negative perceptions of ultrasound, and a desire for reversal of tubal ligation. Incorrect determination of fetal sex by ultrasound has implications that can affect the mental and psychological health of the mother and the upbringing of the newborn. (author's) Language: English Keywords: NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SEX DETERMINATION | ULTRASONICS | ERROR SOURCES | KNOWLEDGE | ATTITUDES | VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Measurement | Research Methodology | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Domestic Violence | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 324207 |
| 3. Peer Reviewed Title: Second trimester abortions in India. Author: Dalvie SS Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31 Suppl):37-45. Abstract: This article gives an overview of what is known about second trimester abortions in India, including the reasons why women seek abortions in the second trimester, the influence of abortion law and policy, surgical and medical methods used, both safe and unsafe, availability of services, requirements for second trimester service delivery, and barriers women experience in accessing second trimester services. Based on personal experiences and personal communications from other doctors since 1993, when I began working as an abortion provider, the practical realities of second trimester abortion and case histories of women seeking second trimester abortion are also described. Recommendations include expanding the cadre of service providers to non-allopathic clinicians and trained nurses, introducing second trimester medical abortion into the public health system, replacing ethacridine lactate with mifepristone-misoprostol, values clarification among providers to challenge stigma and poor treatment of women seeking second trimester abortion, and raising awareness that abortion is legal in the second trimester and is mostly not requested for reasons of sex selection. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SEX DETERMINATION | SEX PRESELECTION | ABORTION LAW | POLICY | SAFETY | ABORTION | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Public Health | Pregnancy Document Number: 330099 Notification |
| 4. Peer Reviewed Title: Maintaining access to safe abortion and reducing sex ratio imbalances in Asia. Author: Ganatra B Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 May;16(31 Suppl):90-8. Abstract: High sex ratios at birth (108 boys to 100 girls or higher) are seen in China, Taiwan, South Korea and parts of India and Viet Nam. The imbalance is the result of son preference, accentuated by declining fertility. Prenatal sex detection with ultrasound followed by second trimester abortion is one of the ways sex selection manifests itself, but it is not the causative factor. Advocates and governments seeking to reverse this imbalance have largely prohibited sex detection tests and/or sex selective abortion, assuming these measures would reverse the trend. Such policies have been difficult to enforce and have met with only limited success. At the same time, such policies are starting to have adverse effects on the already limited access to safe and legal second trimester abortion for reasons other than sex selection. Moreover, the sex selection issue is being used as a platform for anti-abortion rhetoric by certain groups. Maintaining access to safe abortion and achieving a decline in high sex ratios are both important goals. Both are possible if the focus shifts to addressing the conditions that drive son preference. Language: English Keywords: ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | SONS | SEX PREFERENCE | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | SEX DETERMINATION | SEX PRESELECTION | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies Document Number: 330098 |
| 5. Title: Female feticide in India: Issues and concerns. Author: Garg S; Nath A Source: Journal of Postgraduate Medicine. 2008 Oct;54(4):276-279. Abstract: The preference for a son continues to be a prevalent norm in the traditional Indian household. This is evident from the declining sex ratio which has dropped to alarming levels, especially in the northern states according to Census 2001 reports. The proliferation and abuse of advanced technologies coupled with social factors contributing to the low status of women such as dowry, concerns with family name and looking up to the son as a breadwinner has made the evil practice of female feticide to become common in the middle and higher socioeconomic households, especially in the northern states. Despite the existence of the Prenatal Diagnostic Techniques Act, there is a dire need to strengthen this law since the number of convictions is despairingly low as compared to the burden posed by this crime. Moreover, it is necessary to gear efforts against the cultural, economic and religious roots of this social malady by woman empowerment and intensive Information, Education and Communication campaigns. The medical colleges and professional bodies have a vital role to play by sensitizing medical students who are the doctors of tomorrow. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | FETUS | SEX PREFERENCE | ABORTION | WOMEN'S STATUS | CULTURE | DOWRY | SEX DETERMINATION | CRIME | LEGISLATION | SOCIAL PROBLEMS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Political Factors | Diseases Document Number: 328513 Notification |
| 6. Title: Fetal gender screening by ultrasound at 11 to 13 +6 weeks. Author: Hsiao CH; Wang HC; Hsieh CF; Hsu JJ Source: Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2008;87(1):8-13. Abstract: The objective was to survey the accuracy of fetal gender determination during first trimester screening and scan for congenital anomalies. A prospective observational study was performed on 496 singleton pregnancies at the first trimester ultrasound screening. The doctor was a certified sonographer of first trimester screening by the Fetal Medicine Foundation (FMF). Ultrasound examination was performed on a GE Voluson 730 Pro, transabdominally, between 11 and 13/+6 weeks. Both transverse and mid-sagittal planes of a section of the fetal genital tubercle were performed to identify the gender. The subsequent gender at birth was obtained from karyotyping reports or hospital birth records. During the study, 496 patients requested gender information at the time of first trimester screening. Of the patients it was possible to determine gender (441 out of 496), the scan achieved an overall success rate of 91.8% in correctly identifying gender. The success rate for correctly identifying fetal gender (where identification was possible) increased with gestational age, from 71.9% at 11 weeks, 92% at 12 weeks, and 98.3% at 13 weeks, respectively, where gestational age was calculated from the crown-rump length in conjunction with menstrual or ovulation dating (p less than 0.001). Of the 55 cases where no identification of gender was possible, 39 were in the 11-week gestational age group, representing 40.6% of this category. The overall fetal gender accuracy rate for male fetus was slightly better than female (92.5 versus 91.2%), but was not statistically significant. This study demonstrated that the gestational age of the fetus has a material effect on the accuracy rate of gender determination. At 12 weeks and over, the average success rate for correctly identifying gender, where gender identification was possible, was 94.8%, with the accuracy at 13 weeks of 98.3% approaching that achieved by invasive testing. Fetal gender identification at 11 weeks (where crown-rump length is less than 57 mm) is difficult and liable to high rates of inaccuracy when a determination is made. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TAIWAN | RESEARCH REPORT | PROSPECTIVE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | SEX DETERMINATION | SCREENING | ULTRASONICS | CONGENITAL ABNORMALITIES | PREGNANCY, FIRST TRIMESTER | RELIABILITY | GESTATIONAL AGE | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Neonatal Diseases and Abnormalities | Diseases | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Measurement | Fetus Document Number: 325876 |
| 7. Peer Reviewed Title: Anticipated and perceived pain from midtrimester amniocentesis. Author: Karasahin E; Gungor S; Goktolga; Keskin U; Gezginc K Source: International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2008 Jun;101(3):290-294. Abstract: The objective was to evaluate the anticipated and perceived pain and determine the factors contributing to pain perception in women undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis. A visual analog scale was used to quantify pain in this prospective study of 64 women undergoing amniocentesis in the same clinical setting. The analysis was done using the paired-samples t test, analysis of variance, the Kruskal-Wallis test, the Mann-Whitney U test, and Pearson correlation analysis. The postprocedural pain scores were significantly less than the preprocedural pain scores (P less than 0.01). Parity, a previous amniocentesis, the indication for amniocentesis, and the previous loss of a child were factors contributing to pain scores. No correlations were found between pain score and maternal age, week of pregnancy at the time of the procedure, parity, or having lost a child. The perceived pain was less than the anticipated pain, and the factors contributing to pain should be kept in mind when counseling patients undergoing midtrimester amniocentesis. (author's) Language: English Keywords: TURKEY | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | PREGNANT WOMEN | AMNIOCENTESIS | PAIN | PERCEPTION | RISK FACTORS | Europe, Southeastern | Europe | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Signs and Symptoms | Diseases | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Biology Document Number: 326724 |
| 8. Peer Reviewed Title: The frequency and significance of intraamniotic inflammation in patients with cervical insufficiency. Author: Lee SE; Romero R; Park CW; Jun JK; Yoon BH Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2008 Jun;198(6):633.e1-633.e8. Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency and clinical significance of intraamniotic inflammation in patients with acute cervical insufficiency. Amniocentesis was performed in 52 patients with acute cervical insufficiency (cervical dilation, greater than or equal to 1.5 cm) and intact membranes and without regular uterine contractions (gestational age, 17-29 weeks). Amniotic fluid (AF) was cultured for aerobic and anaerobic bacteria and genital mycoplasmas and assayed for matrix metalloproteinase- 8. Intraamniotic inflammation was defined as an elevated AF matrix metalloproteinase-8 concentration (greater than 23 ng/mL). Nonparametric statistics and survival techniques were used for analysis. The prevalence of intraamniotic inflammation was 81% (42/ 52); the prevalence of a positive AF culture was 8% (4/52). Intraamniotic inflammation was present in all cases with a positive AF culture. Preterm delivery within 7 days occurred in 50% of cases (19/38), and delivery before 34 weeks of gestation occurred in 84% of cases (32/ 38) with intraamniotic inflammation but without AF infection. Fifty-five percent of newborn infants (21/38) who were born to mothers with intraamniotic inflammation but without AF infection died immediately after birth (less than 1 day). The amniocentesis-to-delivery interval was shorter in patients with intraamniotic inflammation than in those without inflammation (P less than .05). There were no differences in the interval-to-delivery or the rate of adverse outcome between patients with intraamniotic inflammation and a negative culture and patients with proven AF infection. Intraamniotic inflammation, regardless of AF culture result, is present in approximately 80% of patients with acute cervical insufficiency and is a risk factor for impending preterm delivery and adverse outcomes. (author's) Language: English Keywords: REPUBLIC OF KOREA | RESEARCH REPORT | CLINICAL RESEARCH | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | PREGNANT WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | AMNIOCENTESIS | CERVICAL DILATATION | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | PREVALENCE | IMMUNOLOGICAL EFFECTS | NEONATAL MORTALITY | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | PREMATURE BIRTH | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Diseases | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Treatment | Infections | Measurement | Immunity | Immune System | Physiology | Biology | Infant Mortality | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Pregnancy | Reproduction Document Number: 308641 |
| 9. Title: Sex selection, gender-based violence and human rights abuse [letter] Author: Liljestrand J; Shaw D Source: Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica. 2008;87(4):482-483. Abstract: In the People's Republic of China, over 10% of young women are missing. One major contributory factor to this loss of millions of human lives is sex selective abortion based on early ultrasound. This practice, legal or illegal, is also common in other countries such as parts of India. In this light, it is surprising that Hsiao et al. in Acta number 1, 2008, do not even mention this dilemma in their study of early fetal sex determination by ultrasound. They do refer to the fact that many Taiwanese/Chinese wish to have early information on fetal sex, however, they do not mention the ethical dilemma of disclosing such information, particularly in parts of the world where such information may lead to - and does lead to - the earliest form of gender-based violence and major human rights abuse, directed against the female sex. The Editor's comment does raise this dilemma, however this is insufficient, as many readers will read the original paper only. FIGO's ethical guidelines emphasize that professional societies and their members are accountable for the employment of techniques for sex selection only for medical indications; and that in regional areas with marked sex ratio imbalance, professional societies should work with governments to ensure that sex selection is strictly regulated. It is surprising to us that Acta would permit such a paper to go to print without any discussion in the paper of the ethical and human rights implications of the scientific findings. (full text) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | INDIA | TAIWAN | CRITIQUE | SEX PRESELECTION | ETHICS | HUMAN RIGHTS | SEX DETERMINATION | ULTRASONICS | SEX RATIO | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Developed Countries | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population Document Number: 325877 |
| 10. Peer Reviewed Title: Effective prediction of preeclampsia by a combined ratio of angiogenesis-related factors. Author: Lim JH; Kim SY; Park SY; Yang JH; Kim My Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2008 Jun;111(6):1403-1409. Abstract: Imbalance between angiogenesis-related factors is closely related to the development of preeclampsia. The objective was to estimate the most effective and accurate predictive biomarker among levels and ratios of angiogenesis-related factors, including soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1), soluble endoglin, placental growth factor (PlGF), and transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1), in women who subsequently developed preeclampsia. A nested cohort study was conducted to estimate the levels of sFlt-1, soluble endoglin, PlGF, and TGF-beta1 in plasma collected in the second trimester from 40 women who subsequently developed preeclampsia and 100 contemporaneous normotensive women. Levels of sFlt-1 and soluble endoglin were significantly higher in women with preeclampsia than in normotensive women, whereas levels of PlGF and TGF-beta1 were lower (P less than .001). In women with preeclampsia, sFlt-1/PlGF, soluble endoglin/TGF-beta1, and the combined ratio of (sFlt-1 + soluble endoglin)/(PlGF+ TGF-beta1) were significantly higher than in normotensive women (P less than .001) and even greater in severe preeclampsia with preterm delivery compared with mild preeclampsia with term delivery (P less than .05). At equivalent sensitivity (85%), the false-positive rate was 45% for sFlt-1, 41% for soluble endoglin, 33% for sFlt-1/PlGF, 21% for soluble endoglin/ TGF-beta1, and 10% for the combined ratio. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, the risks for developing preeclampsia were as follows: odds ratio (OR) 6.9 [95% confidence interval 2.3-20.7] for sFlt-1 level, 7.1 [2.3-21.7] for soluble endoglin level, 6.8 [2.4-19.4] for sFlt-1/PlGF, 38.8 [9.8-154.3] for soluble endoglin/TGF-beta1, and 74.8 [17.6-316.7] for the combined ratio. The combined ratio of angiogenesis-related factors showed the lowest false-positive rate and the highest OR for prediction of preeclampsia, indicating that it may provide more effective prediction of development of preeclampsia. (author's) Language: English Keywords: DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF KOREA | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | PREGNANT WOMEN | PREGNANCY, SECOND TRIMESTER | PREECLAMPSIA | HOMEOSTASIS | AMNIOCENTESIS | TESTING | LABORATORY PROCEDURES | RISK FACTORS | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Pregnancy Complications | Diseases | Physiology | Biology | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Measurement Document Number: 327247 |
| 11. Peer Reviewed Title: Analysis of socio-political and health practices influencing sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam. Author: Pham BN; Hall W; Hill PS; Rao C Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2008 Nov;16(32):176-84. Abstract: Viet Nam has experienced rapid social change over the last decade, with a remarkable decline in fertility to just below replacement level. The combination of fertility decline, son preference, antenatal sex determination using ultrasound and sex selective abortion are key factors driving increased sex ratios at birth in favour of boys in some Asian countries. Whether or not this is taking place in Viet Nam as well is the subject of heightened debate. In this paper, we analyse the nature and determinants of sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam, including a small family size norm, recent reinforcement by the Government of the "one-to-two child" family policy, traditional son preference, easy access to antenatal ultrasound screening and legal abortion, and an increase in the proportion of one-child families. In order to prevent an increased sex ratio at birth in Viet Nam, we argue for the relaxation of the one-to-two child family policy and a return to the policy of "small family size" as determined by families, in tandem with a comprehensive approach to promoting the value of women and girls in society, countering traditional gender roles, and raising public awareness of the negative social consequences of a high sex ratio at birth. Language: English Keywords: VIETNAM | RECOMMENDATIONS | SONS | SEX RATIO | SEX PREFERENCE | ANTINATALIST POLICY | FAMILY SIZE | SEX DETERMINATION | ULTRASONICS | SEX PRESELECTION | ABORTION | LEGISLATION | Asia, Southeastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning Document Number: 342199 Notification |
| 12. Peer Reviewed Title: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on India’s gender imbalance. Author: Singh M Source: Population and Development Review. 2008 Jun;34(2):387-389. Abstract: India is one of a number of countries, mostly East and South Asian, that record anomalous male-dominated sex ratios at birth. Under-enumeration of girl children may be partly responsible, but the larger cause is the selective abortion of female fetuses in societies showing strong cultural or economic preferences for sons over daughters. Fetal sex determination became simple with the development of ultrasound technology. The sharp rise in the ratio of boys to girls in the youngest population age groups seen in the Indian censuses of 1981, 1991, and 2001-especially in the northwestern states of Punjab and Haryana-coincides with the spread of this technology, notwithstanding that its use for this purpose has been outlawed since the early 1990s. (Abortion is legal in India but the principle of parental sovereignty in reproductive decisions is overruled in this case in the name of the collective interest.) In a recent speech Prime Minister Manmohan Singh called attention to the gender imbalance and supported a nationwide campaign to end sex discrimination in this "gray area of national concern." The Prime Minister's speech was delivered on 28 April 2008 to the National Conference on "Save the Girl Child," New Delhi, a meeting organized by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is reprinted below. The Prime Minister describes selective abortion of a female fetus as a reprehensible practice. Its origin is found in the "patriarchal mindset," its prevalence ascribed to "unscrupulous parents" and "unethical conduct on the part of some medical practitioners" offering sex determination services. The remedy, he says, lies in education and empowerment of women. While that may well be the case in the longer run, cross-sectional research findings are less than supportive. The gender imbalance is positively associated with parental education and social status-whether linked to greater affordability of sex determination services or to the enhanced agency of higher-status parents in reproductive decisions. The text of the speech can be found at http://pmindia.nic.in/lspeech.asp?id=677. Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS | POPULATION | POLICYMAKERS | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEX RATIO | POPULATION POLICY | SEX DETERMINATION | ULTRASONICS | ABORTION | WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT | SEX DISCRIMINATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Women's Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems Document Number: 327378 Notification |
| 13. Title: Sex ratio at birth and excess female child mortality in India: trends, differentials and regional patterns. Author: Arokiasamy P Source: In: Watering the neighbour's garden: The growing demographic female deficit in Asia, edited by Isabelle Attane and Christophe Z. Guilmoto. Paris, France, Committee for International Cooperation in National Research in Demography [CICRED], 2007. :49-72. "Chapters in this volume originate from papers presented at an international seminar organized by the authors in Singapore on 5-7 December 2005". Abstract: The region comprising the northern and western states of India, where evidence of stronger son preference is well documented, has the history of most imbalanced sex ratio. The corresponding link between adverse female/male child mortality differentials and the recent sharp rise in child sex ratios, related to foetal mortality, constitutes the main focus of this analysis. Set in this context, this chapter assesses the evidence of trends and regional patterns in sex bias against female children. It explores the dynamics of gender bias in terms of two proximate determinants of sex ratio, namely, sex ratio at birth and excess female child mortality. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | HEALTH SURVEYS | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | CHILD, FEMALE | SEX RATIO | CHILD MORTALITY | SEX DISTRIBUTION | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | EXCESS MORTALITY | DIFFERENTIAL MORTALITY | SEX DISCRIMINATION | AMNIOCENTESIS | ULTRASONICS | ABORTION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Health | Research Methodology | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Factors | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Social Discrimination | Social Problems | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning Document Number: 308894 Notification |
| 14. Peer Reviewed Title: Fetal sex-determination in Delhi: A population-based investigation. Author: Chaturvedi S; Chhabra P; Bharadwaj S; Smanla S; Kannan AT Source: Tropical Doctor. 2007 Apr;37(2):98-100. Abstract: A population-based cross-sectional inquiry was carried out in Delhi to assess the practice of fetal sex determination, sex-selective abortions and awareness about the related law. A total of 1514 respondents, selected through multistage cluster sampling from all across Delhi, were interviewed using a pretested, semistructured questionnaire. Legal awareness (73.6%) was significantly better among the male and urban respondents. Only 39 (2.6%) of the respondents had ever gone for fetal sex determination. In 17 (43.6%) of them, it was done in spite of being aware of its unlawfulness, and in 33 (84.6%), the couple had one or more living male children. Frequency of fetal sex determination was comparable for slum and urban areas. Fifty-six additional cases of fetal sex determination, occurring in the neighbourhood of the respondents, were also reported. A total of 28 cases of female feticide were reported. Awareness about the illegality of fetal sex determination has improved, compared with the 1997--1998 data collected from East Delhi (55.3--73.6%). However, this comparison also shows a marginal increase in the practice of fetal sex determination (2.1--2.6%). In all cases of feticide, a qualified doctor was involved. A number of couples abandoned the abortion plan midway, even after detecting that the fetus was female, and there were occasional cases where the doctor refused to abort the female fetus. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CROSS SECTIONAL ANALYSIS | INTERVIEWS | COUPLES | SEX PRESELECTION | AWARENESS | SEX DETERMINATION | LEGISLATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Data Collection | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Knowledge | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Political Factors Document Number: 316527 |
| 15. Title: Factors influencing the use of prenatal diagnostic techniques and sex ratio at birth in India. Author: Mari Bhat PN; Zavier AJ Source: In: Watering the neighbour's garden: The growing demographic female deficit in Asia, edited by Isabelle Attane and Christophe Z. Guilmoto. Paris, France, Committee for International Cooperation in National Research in Demography [CICRED], 2007. :131-160. "Chapters in this volume originate from papers presented at an international seminar organized by the authors in Singapore on 5-7 December 2005". Abstract: The Indian subcontinent is one of the few regions in the world where there are more males than females in the population. Before the landmark study of Pravin Visaria on the sex ratio of India's population, several hypotheses were in circulation to account for this unusual occurrence. The latest census in 2001 has recorded a significant increase in the sex ratio of children age 0-6 while registering a decline in the overall male-female ratio from the previous census in 1991. Many attribute the increase in the child sex ratio to a possible rise in the sex ratio at birth (SRB) owing to the increasing incidence of female foeticide in regions where son preference remains strong. But it has also been pointed out that there could be other factors at work such as changing pattern of age misstatements by sex, and increase in the SRB because of improvements in health status and midwifery practices and from the decline in the proportion of higher-order births. The data from India's National Family Health Surveys provide an opportunity to analyze the effect of a larger set of factors from a fairly sizeable sample of births using multivariate techniques. Also, as the second round of the survey (NFHS-2) had collected data on the use of ultrasound and amniocentesis during pregnancies of live births born during the threeyear period preceding the survey, they additionally made it possible to analyze how socioeconomic and demographic factors affect the SRB through the 'misuse' such techniques. Although some attempts have already been made to analyze this data set for this purpose, its potential is yet to be fully exploited. An attempt in this direction is made in this chapter. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS | HEALTH SURVEYS | INFANT | CHILD, FEMALE | SEX RATIO | SEX DETERMINATION | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX PRESELECTION | HUMAN GEOGRAPHY | CENSUS | RELIGION | CULTURE | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Research Methodology | Health | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Geography | Social Sciences | Science | Sociocultural Factors | Population Statistics | Economic Factors Document Number: 308898 |
| 16. Title: Perinatal mortality in Rh alloimmunized patients. Author: Nardozza LM; Camano L; Moron AF; Chinen PA; Torloni MR Source: European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology. 2007 Jun;132(2):159-162. Abstract: Evaluate and compare the perinatal mortality of Rh-negative pregnancies managed at Sao Paulo Federal University during a 9-year period, using either amniocentesis or middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity. Descriptive observational study involving 291 consecutive Rh-negative pregnancies managed between January 1995 and January 2004. The perinatal mortality of 99 alloimmunized patients was compared with 192 Rh-negative unimmunized patients (control group). The perinatal mortality of patients managed with amniocenteses was compared to those managed with Doppler studies. There were 74 patients managed with amniocenteses and 25 managed with Doppler studies. Perinatal mortality was significantly higher in the 99 Rh-negative isoimmunized patients than in the 192 unimmunized patients (12.1% versus 1%, p = 0.0001) and did not differ according to the management protocol used (amniocentesis 13.5% versus cerebral Doppler 8.0%, p = 0.725). Mean gestational age and mean weight at birth in pregnancies managed with amniocenteses (35.7 weeks and 2586 g) did not differ significantly from those managed with Doppler (36.3 weeks and 2647 g). Perinatal mortality in Rh-negative alloimmunized patients remains high and does not differ whether pregnancies are managed through amniocentesis or cerebral Doppler evaluation. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CONTROL GROUPS | CLIENTS | PERINATAL MORTALITY | RH SENSITIZATION | ANEMIA | AMNIOCENTESIS | ULTRASONICS | IMMUNOLOGIC FACTORS | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy Complications | Diseases | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Immunity | Immune System | Physiology | Biology Document Number: 317141 |
| 17. Title: Gender preference and awareness regarding sex determination among married women in slums of Chandigarh. Author: Puri S; Bhatia V; Swami HM Source: Indian Journal of Community Medicine. 2007 Jan-Mar;32(1):[6] p. Abstract: Female foeticide resulting in decline of child sex ratio has led to enforcement of Preconception and Prenatal diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) act since February 2003. Sex ratio, an important social indicator measuring extent of prevailing equity between males and females in society, is defined as no. of females /1000 males. Changes in sex ratio reflect underlying socioeconomic, cultural patterns of a society. As per 2001 census sex ratio in India is 933/1000 males, which continues to be significantly adverse towards women and is the lowest amongst 10 most populous countries in world. Russia tops the list in sex ratio (1140) followed by USA (1029). Most alarming is decrease in CSR (Child sex ratio 0-6). In Punjab the number was least (793) in 2001, followed by Haryana (820) and Chandigarh (845). Advances in technology and diagnostic facilities have opened up avenue for the girl haters leading to serious disturbances in sex ratio as a result of female foeticide. Desire for male child manifests so blatantly that parents have no qualms about repeated, closely spaced pregnancies, premature deaths and even terminating child before it is born. Birth of female child is perceived as a curse with economic and social liability. Therefore the present study was conducted among married women dwelling in slums and semi-rural area to find out the level of their awareness regarding sex determination and attitude towards gender. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | QUESTIONNAIRES | COUPLES | CURRENTLY MARRIED | WOMEN | SEX PRESELECTION | SEX DETERMINATION | REPRODUCTIVE TECHNOLOGIES | KNOWLEDGE | AWARENESS | FAMILY SIZE, DESIRED | SEX RATIO | INFANTICIDE | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Marital Status | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproduction | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Family Size | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 315403 |
| 18. Peer Reviewed Title: Septostomy with amniodrainage in the treatment of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome: a 16-case report. Author: Saito M; Pontes AL; Filho FA; Sousa FL; Saito M Source: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2007 May;275(5):341-345. Abstract: The objective was to report the treatment results of 16 monochorionic and diamniotic gestations cases, which had complications due to the twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), the neonatal and other possible complications of the septostomy associated to the amniodrainage. Based on ultrasonographic findings, 16 pregnant women were diagnosed with the twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS). These cases were divided in two groups: one of them included the fetuses without hydrops and the second included the "recipient" fetuses with hydrops. The therapy measures included septostomy with or without amniodrainage. The following parameters were evaluated: gestational age at the time the septostomy was performed, volume of drained amniotic fluid, gestational age at delivery, birth weight, postnatal evolution, and procedure complications. The average gestational age for this procedure was of 23.6 weeks (from 14 weeks and 1 day to 33 weeks). The gestational age for the septostomy until the delivery was of 8.18 weeks (from 1.0 to 21.3 weeks). The survival rate in the group without hydrops was of 68.7%, while in the second group it was of 25%. Some of the complications were as follows: two cases of premature membrane rupture and one case of preterm labor. Septostomy with amniodrainage, when performed on the initial stages and on earlier gestational ages has good perinatal results. (author's) Language: English Keywords: BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | PREGNANCY OUTCOMES | MULTIPLE BIRTH | AMNIOCENTESIS | SURGERY | Developing Countries | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Treatment Document Number: 315236 |
| 19. Title: Neglect in the care of pregnant South African women of advanced maternal age [letter] Author: Watcham SJ; Schon S; Christianson AL Source: South African Medical Journal. 2007 Nov;97(11):1064-1071. Abstract: Pregnant women of advanced maternal age (AMA), i.e. over 35 years old, are at increased risk of giving birth to an infant with a chromosomal abnormality. Of South Africa's pregnant population 17.2% falls into the AMA category, which accounts for the high prevalence of Down syndrome, documented to be 1.8 and 2.09 per 1 000 live births in urban and rural populations, respectively. Antenatal care aims to provide a normal pregnancy and delivery of a healthy infant by combating avoidable causes of antenatal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Health professionals must therefore recognise mothers at high risk, with regard to their own and their unborn baby's wellbeing, and manage these cases appropriately. Genetic counselling and prenatal diagnosis (by amniocentesis and cytogenetic analysis) for women of AMA has been available in academic hospitals in Johannesburg since 1980. In 1990 only 5% of amniocenteses in Johannesburg were performed for black women, who comprise 90% of the pregnant population. This was considered to be due to lack of community awareness of the service and failure by the medical personnel to inform these women of the service at their first antenatal visit to confirm the pregnancy. Since 1994 this service has been free, and it has always been open to referral from the health services outside of the academic hospitals. In 2003 and 2004 there were about 2.1 million births in South Africa, 17.2% (360 000) of which were potentially to women of AMA. The National Health Laboratory Service and KwaZulu-Natal Blood Bank cytogenetic laboratories performed only 1 226 amniocenteses for AMA in this period. Utilisation of public health AMA prenatal diagnosis services is therefore still poor in Johannesburg and nationwide. We investigated why AMA women attending antenatal clinics at the academic Johannesburg and Coronation hospitals were not identified in time to receive AMA counselling and the offer of prenatal diagnosis. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: SOUTH AFRICA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PREGNANT WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | MATERNAL AGE, 35 AND OVER | ANTENATAL CARE | GENETIC COUNSELING | AMNIOCENTESIS | LABORATORY EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | GESTATIONAL AGE | QUALITY OF HEALTH CARE | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Maternal Age | Parental Age | Age Factors | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Counseling | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Genetic Techniques | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Fetus | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Health Services Evaluation | Program Evaluation Document Number: 330631 |
| 20. Peer Reviewed Title: Gender preferences and demand for preconception sex selection: a survey among pregnant women in Pakistan. Author: Zubair F; Dahl E; Sher Shah S; Ahmed M; Brosig B Source: Human Reproduction. 2007 Feb;22(2):605-609. Abstract: In its recent report 'Human Reproductive Technologies and the Law', the House of Commons' Select Committee on Science and Technology called for greater efforts to establish the potential demographic impact of sex selection across all sectors of UK society. Given the well-known preference for boys over girls among some communities, there is concern that a readily available service for social sex selection may upset the balance of the sexes. Of particular interest are the gender preferences and the demand for sex selection among Pakistanis. We conducted a social survey on gender preferences and potential demand for preconception sex selection among 301 pregnant women in Karachi, Pakistan, using a self-report questionnaire consisting of 14 questions. About 41.5% wish to have a family with an equal number of boys and girls; 3.3% would like to have only boys, 1.0% only girls, 27.6% more boys than girls and 4.3% more girls than boys, and 22.3% stated that they do not care about the sex composition of their family. Whereas 6.3% could imagine employing cytometric sperm separation for social sex selection, 76.1% could not and 17.6% were undecided. About 27.2% felt that social sex selection ought to be legal, 48.8% thought it ought to be illegal and 23.9% were undecided. Although Pakistani women do show a statistically significant preference for boys over girls, the number of women willing to subject themselves to cytometric sperm separation appears to be too small to cause a severe imbalance of the sexes. However, further research among British citizens of Pakistani origin is needed to establish whether sex selection poses a serious threat to the sex ratio of UK communities. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | PREGNANT WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX DETERMINATION | PERCEPTION | BELIEFS | ATTITUDES | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Culture | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 312203 |
| 21. Peer Reviewed Title: Delivering babies in a time of transition in Tula, Russia. Author: Danishevski K; Balabanova D; McKee M; Parkhurst J Source: Health Policy and Planning. 2006 May;21(3):195-205. Abstract: The objective was to investigate the provision of maternal services in the Tula region of Russia, with an emphasis on variations in practice. The study was set in Tula Oblast. Data sources included an obstetric information database detailing all Tula deliveries in 2000 (n = 11 123) and structured interviews with the heads of maternity facilities and hospital maternity departments. Caesarean-section rates varied from 3.3-37%; episiotomy from 9-80%; and amniocentesis from 0-51%. As fertility rates fell since the 1980s, increasing numbers of women were hospitalized for 'pathological pregnancy' in an attempt to preserve infrastructure. Over-medicalization arises in a system typified by excess capacity and large numbers of specialists. Some practice variations were correlated with characteristics of mothers, but others derive from systems structures such as equipment availability. Improvements in practice will require addressing these structural elements and steering the clinical culture towards evidence-based medicine, rather than simply writing new decrees. (author's) Language: English Keywords: RUSSIA | RESEARCH REPORT | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | PREGNANT WOMEN | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | CHILDBIRTH | CESAREAN SECTION | AMNIOCENTESIS | FERTILITY RATE | PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS | HEALTH FACILITIES | CULTURE | HEALTH POLICY | Developing Countries | Asia, Northern | Asia | Research Methodology | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Pregnancy Outcomes | Pregnancy | Reproduction | Obstetrical Surgery | Surgery | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Birth Rate | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics | Diseases | Sociocultural Factors | Policy | Political Factors Document Number: 299915 |
| 22. Title: Marriage squeeze in China: Historical legacies, surprising findings. Author: Goodkind D Source: [Unpublished] 2006. Presented at the Population Association of America, 2006 Annual Meeting, Los Angeles, California, March 30 - April 1, 2006. [30] p. Abstract: Since the late 1980s, the proliferation of prenatal sex testing in China has led increasingly to selective abortion of female fetuses. Yet these sex-distorted birth cohorts are still too young to marry. In 2000, a notable shortage of brides at peak marital ages was due to age structure - grooms tend to be older than brides, and the age structure at 20-29 resembled an inverse pyramid. By 2010, a temporary shift to a traditional pyramid should lead to a slight shortage of husbands. From 2015 to 2025, the cohorts affected by prenatal sex selection are projected to experience a severe deficit of brides, yet that deficit should still be due primarily to age structure. The accordion-like fluctuations in China's age structure result not only from fertility decline following the population policies established in the 1970s - they can also be traced back to the Great Leap Forward (1958-1961). (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | CONFERENCES AND CONGRESSES | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | POPULATION | MARRIAGE PATTERNS | SEX DETERMINATION | ABORTION | SEX RATIO | AGE DISTRIBUTION CHANGES | MARRIAGE AGE | ONE CHILD POLICY | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Marriage | Nuptiality | Demographic Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Population Characteristics | Age Distribution | Age Factors | Antinatalist Policy | Population Policy | Social Policy | Policy | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 317411 Notification |
| 23. Title: Human embryology and nutrition-some facts from the Holy Qur-an. Author: Khattak IA; Ullah N Source: JPMA. Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association. 2006 Jan-Jul;31(1):[5] p.. Abstract: The Holy Qur-an has provided vast information on various stages of human embryology.. It has been stated that man has been created from the elements provided mainly from water and soil. Qur-an states that after fertilization, nutfah (zygote) rests in the mother's womb for some time, where it gets its nourishment and protection from the outside stresses. It grows into alaqa (a clot of congealed blood) and then into mudgha (fetus lump). Then the mudgha is converted into izaman (mass of bones). Then the mother gives birth to the child. The term used in Qur-an for giving birth is nukh-raja-kum tiflan (expulsion of the baby). The newborn feeds on the mother's breasts for at least two years or two and a half years, as Allah states in the Holy Qur-an. (author's) Language: English Keywords: PAKISTAN | RESEARCH REPORT | DATA ANALYSIS | INFANT | BREASTFEEDING | ISLAM | EDUCATION | INFANT NUTRITION | PREGNANCY | SEX DETERMINATION | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Nutrition | Health | Religion | Sociocultural Factors | Reproduction | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care Document Number: 310933 |
| 24. Peer Reviewed Title: Doctors in India prosecuted for sex determination, but few convicted. Author: Mudur G Source: BMJ. British Medical Journal. 2006 Feb 4;332(7536):257. Abstract: Pressure from the medical community is obstructing action against doctors in India involved in illegal sex determination and selective abortion of female fetuses, government officials said last week, echoing concerns expressed by health activists. More than 300 doctors have been prosecuted in India for violating a 12 year old law that prohibits doctors from disclosing the sex of a fetus to parents, but only four have been convicted, officials said at a conference on sex selection technologies in New Delhi. Birth registration figures show that sex determination and selective abortion of female fetuses continues throughout the country. Doctors in ultrasonography clinics divulge fetal sex to parents after scans for birth defects. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | PHYSICIANS | SEX DETERMINATION | CRIME | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Health Personnel | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors Document Number: 296860 |
| 25. Peer Reviewed Title: Abortion and sex determination: conflicting messages in information materials in a district of Rajasthan, India. Author: Nidadavolu V; Bracken H Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2006 May;14(27):160-171. Abstract: Public information campaigns are an integral component of reproductive health programmes, including on abortion. In India, where sex selective abortion is increasing, public information is being disseminated on the illegality of sex determination. This paper presents findings from a study undertaken in 2003 in one district in Rajasthan to analyse the content of information materials on abortion and sex determination and people's perceptions of them. Most of the informational material about abortion was produced by one abortion service provider, but none by the public or private sector. The public sector had produced materials on the illegality of sex determination, some of which failed to distinguish between sex selection and other reasons for abortion. In the absence of knowledge of the legal status of abortion, the negative messages and strong language of these materials may have contributed to the perception that abortion is illegal in India. Future materials should address abortion and sex determination, including the legal status of abortion, availability of providers and social norms that shape decision-making. Married and unmarried women should be addressed and the participation of family members acknowledged, while supporting independent decisions by women. Sex determination should also be addressed, and the conditions under which a woman can and cannot seek an abortion clarified, using media and materials accessible to low-literate audiences. Based on what we learned in this research, a pictorial booklet and educator's manual were produced, covering both abortion and sex determination, and are being distributed in India. (author's) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | LOW LITERATES | SEX DETERMINATION | CAMPAIGNS | SEX EDUCATION | ABORTION | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION | PERCEPTION | MASS MEDIA | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Educational Status | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Communication Programs | Communication | Education | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Psychological Factors | Behavior Document Number: 304728 Notification |
| 26. Peer Reviewed Title: Missing female births in India. Author: Sheth SS Source: Lancet. 2006 Jan 21;367(9506):185-186. Abstract: Prenatal sex selection for non-medical reasons is a heated issue. Prenatal diagnosis involves an early invasive procedure, such as chorionic villus sampling, between 10 and 12 weeks of gestation or, in the later stages, ultrasonography or amniocentesis. In today's Lancet, Prabhat Jha and colleagues present a large study of 1.1 million Indian households to examine the causes of missing girls at birth. In the UK after a second public consultation, the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority reaffirmed its position opposing sex selection for nonmedical reasons. In India, fetal sex determination and medical termination of pregnancy on the basis of fetal sex have been illegal since 1994. Under the law, prenatal diagnostic scans are allowed for the detection of genetic abnormalities, but sex determination tests are forbidden. Those caught are subject to a fine, imprisonment, and suspension of the medical practitioner's licence. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | CRITIQUE | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | INFANT | CHILD, FEMALE | EXTENDED FAMILY | SEX PREFERENCE | SEX DETERMINATION | INFANTICIDE | FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS | Asia, Southern | Asia | Developing Countries | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Child | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Value Orientation | Psychological Factors | Behavior | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Crime | Social Problems Document Number: 296761 |
| 27. Peer Reviewed Title: Determinants of high sex ratio among newborns: a cohort study from rural Anhui Province, China. Author: Wu Z; Viisainen K; Hemminki E Source: Reproductive Health Matters. 2006 May;14(27):172-180. Abstract: This study analysed the relative contributions of three possible determinants to the high sex ratio among newborns in rural China -- under-reporting of female births, abortions of female fetuses and excess early female neonatal mortality. A cohort of 3,697 pregnancies collected at village level in 20 rural townships from a county in Anhui province in 1999 was followed from pregnancy registration to seven days after birth. The cohort was later completed with 267 retroactively registered pregnancies. In the original cohort, the sex ratio at birth was 152 males to 100 females and in the supplemented cohort 159 males to 100 females, being similar to the sex ratios in the census data of the same townships. The risk of death for girls was almost three times that for boys during the first 24 hours of life. A comparison of the estimated number of missing girls by parity and pregnancy approval status to the recorded abortions and stillbirths suggests that selective abortions of female fetuses contributed most to the extremely high sex ratio among newborns. The under-reporting of female live births and neglect or poorer care of female newborn infants seemed to play a secondary role. New technology has helped the one-child policy to become, in practice, an ''at-least-one-son'' practice. (author's) Language: English Keywords: CHINA | RESEARCH REPORT | COHORT ANALYSIS | INFANT | SEX RATIO | BIRTH RECORDS | ABORTION | SEX DETERMINATION | INFANT MORTALITY | PARITY | PREGNANCY, UNWANTED | Asia, Eastern | Asia | Developing Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Sex Distribution | Sex Factors | Vital Statistics | Population Statistics | Fertility Control, Postconception | Family Planning | Genetic Techniques | Laboratory Examinations and Diagnoses | Examinations and Diagnoses | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Reproductive Behavior Document Number: 304729 Notification |
| 28. Title: Pre-natal sex selection in India: case study of a policy advocacy initiative. Author: United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA] Source: [Unpublished] 2005. Presented at the CEPED-CICRED-INED Seminar on Female Deficit in Asia: Trends and Perspectives, Singapore, December 5-7, 2005. [2] p. Abstract: India is one of the countries in Asia where parents prefer to have a son rather than a daughter. The son preference is deeply rooted in the culture and is linked to the dowry system, the continuation of the family name, care and support for parents in old age, and to burial rituals. In the past, son preference might have translated to relative neglect for girls, and even to female infanticide. Lately however, despite some improvements in the survival chances of young girls in recent decades, the deficit of girls in the younger age groups has increased. The child sex ratio, estimated for age group 0-6 years, for the country as a whole, dropped by 4.5 percent between the censuses of 1981 and 2001, or from 971 to 927 girls per 1000 boys. (excerpt) Language: English Keywords: INDIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | PREGNANT WOMEN | INFANT | SEX DETERMINATION | ABORTION | SEX PREFERENCE | SONS | SEX RATIO | ULTRASONICS | BEHAVIOR CHANGE COMMUNICATION | Developing Countries | Asia, Southern | Asia | Studies | Research Methodology | |