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1.    Full text document

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  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: A new agenda for children affected by HIV/AIDS [editorial]
Source: Lancet. 2009 Feb 14;373(9663):517.
Abstract: As is so often the case in the provision of health care and deciding research agendas, children have been sidelined in the fight against HIV/AIDS. According to the latest UNAIDS figures, nearly 2 million children live with HIV worldwide, two-thirds in sub-Saharan Africa. In addition, 12 million children in sub-Saharan Africa have lost one or two parents due to HIV/AIDS. Many more live with a parent or carer with HIV. A very small proportion of infected children receive antiretroviral treatment, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission is only given to a third of women. Diagnosis in infancy is difficult and therefore often delayed. Child-friendly medication is lacking. 60% of children in southern Africa live in poverty. Now that HIV/AIDS is evolving from an acute emergency into a chronic epidemic, the way to deliver treatment and achieve prevention needs to change radically from an individualistic approach to a broader strategic one. Children and families need to take centre stage. In an excellent report, based on 2 years of research and analyses, the Joint Learning Initiative on Children and HIV/AIDS-an independent alliance of researchers, implementers, activists, policy makers, and people living with HIV-has presented recommendations for such a change in direction. Home Truths: Facing the Facts on Children, AIDS, and Poverty, released on Feb 10, points out three broad policies that will make an immediate and long lasting difference to children: support children through immediate or extended families and deliver integrated family-centred services; strengthen community action to support families; and address family poverty through national social protection. Such policies are AIDS-sensitive but not AIDS-directed. The family is the most important support structure for children. The report argues that the way orphans have been defined (as having lost one or both parents) and have become the centre of attention for many HIV/AIDS policies has been unhelpful, if not damaging. 88% of children labelled as orphans have a surviving parent and overall 95% continue to live with extended families. Additionally, children who live with HIV-positive parents have needs long before their parents die. Children need to stay within a family or kinship structure. Infected children usually live with others who are infected with the virus. The whole family, not the individual, needs to become the unit for support and treatment. The report advocates home health visiting and early childhood development interventions together with strategies to encourage children's education. The use of schools as intervention platforms misses the opportunity to reach children early and to reach those who are not in education-the majority in some countries. Economic strengthening of families has to be the basis to allow many of these programmes to fully succeed. The best immediate support for families is given by com munity groups. International donors need to work with these groups in partnership to avoid duplication, confusion, and waste of time and money. The authors suggest that coordination could be strengthened with a district committee that maintains an active register of community activities and devises a system of accountability that is understood by all and serves the com munity. All activities should be delivered within a framework that is based on best practice. Communities also have a crucial role to act as a backstop when families break down or when children live in an abusive environment. Family poverty and undernutrition can be addressed through income-transfer programmes, such as Mexico's Oportunidades programme or South Africa's child support grants. These projects are efficient and simple, empower women, and can act as a springboard for other more complex schemes, such as microfinance loans. Such economic support increases school attendance, reduces illnesses, improves growth, and encourages uptake of health services. The largest portion of money is usually used to purchase food. Extreme poverty, rather than HIV infection, should be used as a criterion to avoid stigma and resentment. The report argues that "any developing country, no matter how poor, can afford social protection packages for children". The positive effect of this policy is now established beyond doubt and no further pilot studies are needed. To integrate all these strategies, governments need to take the lead with national plans and frameworks to scale-up programmes for children and families. With this approach, society as a whole will be strengthened with intergenerational effects that will go a long way towards, but also go well beyond, tackling the effects of HIV/AIDS. Putting children and families at the centre will show long-term vision with guaranteed future benefits. (fulll-text)
Language: English

Keywords:
AFRICA, SUB SAHARAN | SUMMARY REPORT | CHILDREN | HIV INFECTIONS | AIDS | POVERTY | MALNUTRITION | CHILD HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | DELIVERY OF HEALTH CARE | TREATMENT | Africa | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Nutrition Disorders | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine
Document Number: 341049  

3.
Title: Plan B for 17-year olds.
Source: Medical Letter On Drugs and Therapeutics. 2009 May 18;51(1312):40.
Abstract: The FDA has announced that it will lower the age for over-the-counter access to the emergency contraceptive Plan B from 18 to 17 years old. In a randomized, controlled trial, the two 0.75-mg levonorgestrel tablets in Plan B, taken 12 hours apart beginning within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, decreased the overall pregnancy rate to 1.1% (11/976) of women who requested emergency contraception. The sooner the drug is taken after coitus, the more effective it is. Nausea and vomiting can occur with Plan B. Fetal malformations have not been associated with pregnancies that occurred despite use of levonorgestrel-only emergency contraception. (full-text)
Language: English

Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | USFDA | ADOLESCENTS | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION | ADMINISTRATION AND DOSAGE | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | USPHS | Government Agencies | Organizations | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraception | Family Planning | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 341625  

4.    Full text document

Title: Guidelines for prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections in HIV-infected adults and adolescents.
Author: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Source: MMWR. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Recommendations and Reports. 2009 Apr 10;58(RR-4):[216] p..
Abstract: Major changes in the guidelines include 1) greater emphasis on the importance of antiretroviral therapy for the prevention and treatment of opportunistic infections (OIs), especially those OIs for which no specific therapy exists; 2) information regarding the diagnosis and management of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndromes; 3) information regarding the use of interferon-gamma release assays for the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection; 4) updated information about drug interactions that affect the use of rifamycin drugs for prevention and treatment of TB; 5) the addition of a section on hepatitis B virus infection; and 6) the addition of malaria to the list of OIs that might be acquired during international travel.
Language: English

Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | SUMMARY REPORT | STANDARDS | MANUAL | ADULTS | ADOLESCENTS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | HIV PREVENTION | TREATMENT | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DRUG INTERACTIONS | EXAMINATIONS AND DIAGNOSES | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Research Methodology | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Youth | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | HIV | Drugs
Document Number: 339985  

5.    Full text document

Title: Doorways III: teacher training manual on school-related gender-based violence prevention and response.
Author: DevTech Systems. Safe Schools Program
Source: Arlington, Virginia, DevTech Systems, 2009 Mar. v, 214 p. (USAID Contract No. GEW-I-02-02-00019-00)
Abstract: This manual was designed to train teachers to help prevent and respond to school-related gender-based violence (SRGBV) by reinforcing teaching practices and attitudes that promote a safe learning environment for all students.
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | MANUAL | TEACHERS | STUDENTS | SCHOOLS | ADOLESCENTS | CHILDREN | PHYSICAL ABUSE | VIOLENCE | TRAINING ACTIVITIES | COUNSELING | PSYCHOLOGICAL FACTORS | IMPACT | SOCIAL CHANGE | Education | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Training Programs | Clinic Activities | Program Activities | Programs | Organization and Administration | Communication | Sociocultural Factors
Document Number: 339983  

6.    Full text document

Title: ICPD contributions to universal access for women and girls.
Author: Fundacion para Estudio e Investigacion de la Mujer [FEIM]
Source: Buenos Aires, Argentina, FEIM, 2009. 2 p.
Abstract: This advocacy document, urging governments at the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) to adopt a series of key actions to reaffirm their commitments to the Cairo Programme of Action especially related to sexual health and rights and HIV/AIDS, was distributed to the official delegates of the 42nd session of the CPD in English and Spanish and used to do advocacy with governments.
Language: English

Keywords:
AFRICA | ASIA | LATIN AMERICA | CARIBBEAN | MANUAL | WOMEN | CHILD, FEMALE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developing Countries | Americas | Demographic Factors | Population | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Health | Delivery of Health Care | Human Rights | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 328699  

7.    Full text document

Title: ICPD contributions to universal access for women and girls. Aportes de la ICPD para el Acceso Universal para Mujeres y Ninas.
Author: Fundacion para Estudio e Investigacion de la Mujer [FEIM]
Source: Buenos Aires, Argentina, FEIM, 2009. 2 p.
Abstract: This advocacy document, urging governments at the Commission on Population and Development (CPD) to adopt a series of key actions to reaffirm their commitments to the Cairo Programme of Action especially related to sexual health and rights and HIV/AIDS, was distributed to the official delegates of the 42nd session of the CPD in English and Spanish and used to do advocacy with governments.
Language: English

Keywords:
AFRICA | ASIA | LATIN AMERICA | CARIBBEAN | MANUAL | WOMEN | CHILD, FEMALE | REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH | HEALTH SERVICES | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY | Developing Countries | Americas | Demographic Factors | Population | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Health | Delivery of Health Care | Human Rights | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Program Evaluation | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 328781  

8.    Full text document

Title: How to put an end to the practice of female genital mutilation (FGM)? Panel discussion report (6 February 2008).
Author: Inter-Parliamentary Union; International Organization for Migration [IOM]; Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices Affecting the Health of Women and Children; Switzerland. Geneva. Departement des Institutions
Source: Geneva, Switzerland, Inter-Parliamentary Union, 2009. 32 p.
Abstract: Every 10 seconds, somewhere in the world, a little girl is a victim of genital mutilation. Three million girls are excised every year. To mark the International Day of Zero Tolerance to FGM on 6 February 2008, more than 100 representatives of international organizations, civil society, media, diplomatic missions and the local authorities in Geneva gathered at The House of Parliaments to discuss ways of putting an end to this harmful practice. The IPU, the Departement des Institutions de l?Etat de Geneve (Geneva Department of Institutions), the International Organization for Migration and the Inter-African Committee on Traditional Practices decided to join forces to put an end to this human tragedy. This publication contains the experts' contributions, extracts of the debates and conclusions of the seminar. (Excerpts)
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | RECOMMENDATIONS | EVALUATION | WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT | POLICYMAKERS | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | FEMALE GENITAL CUTTING | POLITICAL FACTORS | ADVOCACY | RELIGION | LEADERSHIP | SOCIAL POLICY | WOMEN'S RIGHTS | CULTURE | Economic Development | Economic Factors | Administrative Personnel | Organization and Administration | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Harmful Traditional Practices | Traditional Health Practices | Sociocultural Factors | Communication | Policy | Human Rights
Document Number: 331363  

9.    Full text document

Title: Why women and girls need an AIDS vaccine. The search for new and better prevention options.
Author: International AIDS Vaccine Initiative [IAVI]
Source: [New York, New York], IAVI, 2009. 4 p. (iavi INFOsheet)
Abstract: Women’s and girls’ increased biological vulnerability to HIV infection, coupled with social and economic inequities, fuel the pandemic in resource-limited nations. This information sheet addresses some of the gender norms and inequalities that impede women’s ability to prevent HIV infection and makes the case for development of an AIDS vaccine as a powerful equity tool.
Language: English

Keywords:
GLOBAL | SUMMARY REPORT | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | AIDS | STIGMA | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | PHYSICAL ABUSE | SEXUAL ABUSE | VACCINES | MICROBICIDES | WOMEN'S HEALTH | RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Violence | Behavior | Crime | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Drugs | Treatment | Technology | Economic Factors
Document Number: 331832  

10.    Full text document

Title: HIV and children.
Author: Population Council
Source: Momentum. 2009 Jun;:1-13.
Abstract: This issue of Momentum describes initiatives to increase access to low-cost, life-saving treatments to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, help communities mobilize resources to assist families affected by HIV, train grandmothers to encourage HIV testing for orphans, and build a bank of evaluation data to guide programs and service delivery. The focus is on children 15 years of age and under.
Language: English

Keywords:
ZAMBIA | SUMMARY REPORT | MOTHERS | CHILDREN | ORPHANS AND VULNERABLE CHILDREN | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | HIV INFECTIONS | PREVENTION OF MOTHER-TO-CHILD TRANSMISSION | PROGRAM ACTIVITIES | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Disease Transmission Control | Prevention and Control | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 341210  

11.    Full text document

Title: Diarrheal disease: solutions to defeat a global killer.
Author: Program for Appropriate Technology in Health [PATH]
Source: Washington, D.C., PATH, 2009. 38 p.
Abstract: Today, the leading causes of death among children under the age of five, particularly in the developing world, are pneumonia and diarrhea. These illnesses are both preventable and treatable. The global health community possesses the interventions and knowledge to save millions of children's lives worldwide. We can do this by reprioritizing diarrheal disease on the global health agenda; educating, increasing awareness, and mobilizing health care providers, policymakers, and the larger global community around the burden of diarrheal disease and the lifesaving interventions that exist today; and by implementing these solutions with a coordinated approach. Proven, lifesaving, prevention and treatment methods [include]: safe water, improved sanitation and good hygiene; vaccines; exclusive breastfeeding and optimal complementary feeding; oral rehydration therapy (ORT) / oral rehydration solution (ORS); zinc treatment and other micronutrients. (Excerpts)
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | LOW INCOME POPULATION | CHILDREN | DIARRHEA | MALNUTRITION | CHILD MORTALITY | ZINC | WATER QUALITY | CAUSES OF DEATH | SANITATION | TREATMENT | Social Class | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diseases | Nutrition Disorders | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Metals | Vitamins and Minerals | Physiology | Biology | Water | Natural Resources | Environment | Public Health | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care
Document Number: 331382  

12.    Full text document

Title: Handbook on the Optional Protocol on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography.
Author: UNICEF. Innocenti Research Centre
Source: Florence, Italy, UNICEF, Innocenti Research Centre, 2009. [74] p.
Abstract: The Convention on the Rights of the Child, the main international instrument for protecting children's rights, is supplemented by two optional protocols. One addresses the sale of children, child prostitution, and child pornography, and the other the involvement of children in armed conflict. This handbook addresses the former issue. The publication describes the genesis, scope, and content of the protocol and provides examples of measures taken by governments to fulfill their obligations under this protocol.
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | CHILDREN | SOCIAL PROTECTION | TREATIES | PHYSICAL ABUSE | SEXUAL ABUSE | HUMAN RIGHTS | HUMAN TRAFFICKING | VIOLENCE | INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior | Crime | Social Problems | Diseases
Document Number: 331375  

13.    Full text document

Title: A study on violence against girls: Report on the International Girl Child Conference, 9-10 March 2009, The Hague, the Netherlands.
Author: UNICEF. Innocenti Research Centre; Netherlands. Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Human Rights Division
Source: Florence, Italy, UNICEF Innocenti Research Centre, 2009. [97] p.
Abstract: This publication summarizes the discussions and outcomes of the International Conference on Violence against the Girl Child. The conference addressed gaps in knowledge, research, and responses to violence against girls in the home, and was a follow-up to the United Nations Secretary-General’s Study on Violence against Children.
Language: English

Keywords:
NETHERLANDS | SUMMARY REPORT | CHILDREN | CHILD ABUSE | SOCIAL PROTECTION | PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT | CARE AND SUPPORT | CHILD MARRIAGE | INTERNET | HUMAN RIGHTS | DOMESTIC VIOLENCE | RECOMMENDATIONS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | Europe, Western | Europe | Developed Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Crime | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Political Factors | Child Rearing | Behavior | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Marriage Patterns | Marriage | Nuptiality | Information Networks | Communication | Diseases
Document Number: 331831  

14.    Full text document

Title: Child and Adolescent Health and Development progress report 2008. Highlights.
Author: World Health Organization [WHO]. Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development
Source: Geneva, Switzerland, WHO, Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development, 2009. 32 p.
Abstract: This report presents highlights of work done in 2008 by the World Health Organization’s Department of Child and Adolescent Health and Development. It provides an overview of key achievements in newborn, child, and adolescent health and development at the headquarters, regional, and country levels. It also includes a statistical annex covering key indicators for child health in a selection of countries with high under-five mortality rates, as well as adolescent health profiles for five countries.
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | SUMMARY REPORT | ADOLESCENTS | CHILD | CHILD HEALTH | ADOLESCENT HEALTH | CHILD SURVIVAL | ANTENATAL CARE | BREASTFEEDING | PNEUMONIA | MALNUTRITION | MORBIDITY | STANDARDS | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Health | Survivorship | Length of Life | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Maternal Health Services | Maternal-Child Health Services | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Pulmonary Effects | Physiology | Biology | Nutrition Disorders | Diseases | Research Methodology
Document Number: 342030  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Assessment of childhood immunisation coverage [letter]
Author: Aaby P; Benn CS
Source: Lancet. 2009 Apr 25;373(9673):1428.
Abstract: Stephen Lim and colleagues scrutinise coverage with the third dose of diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine (DTP3) in 193 countries. With donor emphasis on DTP3 coverage, it is not surprising that the national estimates might be inflated. Still, there is little doubt that DTP3 coverage has increased in recent decades. But maybe we should be more concerned about the health implications of this trend than about the accuracy of the estimate. From a public health perspective, the fact that DTP3 coverage is now higher than measles vaccine coverage in most African countries is of questionable value. Numerous studies have shown that measles vaccine is beneficial for child survival, but there are conflicting data about the effect of DTP. DTP has frequently been associated with increased mortality in situations with herd immunity. Furthermore, as a result of the drive to increase the DTP3 coverage, more children receive DTP simultaneously with or after measles vaccine. We have found consistently that DTP given simultaneously with measles vaccine (table) or after it is associated with increased mortality compared with having measles vaccine alone as the most recent vaccine. In a study from Bangladesh, children who received DTP/BCG after the age of measles vaccine administration had around threefold higher mortality than unvaccinated children. These observations have not been contradicted. If they are true, the drive to boost the DTP3 coverage could lead to increased child mortality. Current policy is based on the assumption that receiving three DTP vaccines is associated with decreased child mortality. It should be a major priority to determine whether this assumption is correct. (full-text)
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | CRITIQUE | CROSS-CULTURAL COMPARISONS | EPIDEMIOLOGIC METHODS | CHILDREN | IMMUNIZATION | PERTUSSIS | TETANUS | DIPHTHERIA | Comparative Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Bacterial and Fungal Diseases | Infections | Diseases
Document Number: 341150  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: 'And they kill me, only because I am a girl'...a review of sex-selective abortions in South Asia.
Author: Abrejo FG; Shaikh BT; Rizvi N
Source: European Journal of Contraception and Reproductive Health Care. 2009 Feb;14(1):10-6.
Abstract: The low social status of women and the preference for sons determine a high rate of sex-selective abortion or, more specifically, female feticide, in South Asian countries. Although each of them, irrespective of its abortion policy, strictly condemns sex-selective abortion, data suggest high rates of such procedures in India, Nepal, China and Bangladesh. This paper reviews the current situation of sex-selective abortion, the laws related to it and the factors contributing to its occurrence within these countries. Based on this review, it is concluded that sex selective abortion is a public health issue as it contributes to high maternal mortality. Abortion policies of South Asian countries vary greatly and this influences the frequency of reporting of cases. Several socio-economic factors are responsible for sex-selective abortion including gender discriminating cultural practices, irrational national population policies and unethical use of technology. Wide social change promoting women's status in society should be instituted whereby women are offered more opportunities for better health, education and economic participation through gender sensitive policies and programmes. A self-regulation of the practices in the medical profession and among communities must be achieved through behavioural change campaigns.
Language: English

Keywords:
ASIA | RESEARCH REPORT | CHILD, FEMALE | SEX PRESELECTION | SOCIAL DISCRIMINATION | BEHAVIOR CHANGE | Developing Countries | Child | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Reproductive Technologies | Reproduction | Social Problems | Sociocultural Factors | Behavior
Document Number: 341236  

17.    Subscription may be needed for full text     
Title: Prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease in HIV-infected children: expanding the toolbox [editorial]
Author: Abzug MJ; Pelton SI
Source: Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2009 Apr 15;199(8):1109-11.
Abstract: Invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD) remains a threat to HIV-infected children, adolescents, and adults in both developed and emerging nations. In the pre-highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era, Mao et al. identified a cumulative incidence of 6.1 cases per 100 patient-years through age 7 years among HIV-infected children in Massachusetts, a rate 100-300-fold that seen in HIV-uninfected immunocompetent children in the United States. Similarly, Westwood et al. reported an IPD rate of 13 cases per 100 patient-years in Capetown, South Africa, a large proportion of which were lower respiratory tract infections. With widespread use of HAART in the United States, the rate of pneumococcal bacteremia declined by 80%, to 1.9 cases per 100 patient-years; this residual rate still remained at least 10-fold greater than that among HIV-uninfected children, and children who suffered an episode of pneumococcal bacteremia were more likely to die during follow-up than were HIV-infected children without an episode. These data identify the need to protect HIV-infected children from infection with Streptococcus pneumoniae, even in populations treated with HAART. (excerpt)
Language: English

Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | MASSACHUSETTS | SOUTH AFRICA | SUMMARY REPORT | CLINICAL TRIALS | PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS | CHILDREN | ADULTS | ADOLESCENTS | ANTIRETROVIRAL THERAPY | DISEASE PREVENTION | VACCINES | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Developing Countries | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Clinical Research | Research Methodology | HIV Infections | Viral Diseases | Diseases | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | HIV | Prevention and Control | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health
Document Number: 341354  

18.    Subscription may be needed for full text     
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.    Subscription may be needed for full text     
Title: Breastfeeding and obesity among Kuwaiti preschool children.
Author: Al-Qaoud N; Prakash P
Source: Medical Principles and Practice. 2009;18(2):111-7.
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: To determine if breastfeeding and its duration are associated with a reduced risk of obesity among Kuwaiti preschool children. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: The sample consisted of 2,291 (1,092 males and 1,199 females) preschool children (3-6 years of age) and their mothers. The data were collected from September 2003 to June 2004. Height and weight measurements were used for defining weight status while other data were collected by questionnaire. RESULTS: There was no significant association of breastfeeding or its duration with either overweight or obesity among preschool children after adjusting for effects of the confounders. The child's gender, age and birth weight were the significant factors influencing current weight. Girls were at 32% higher risk of becoming obese than boys. Children aged 4-5 years were at nearly 3 times higher risk of overweight and obesity than children of less than 4 years. Children with higher birth weight (>or=4 kg) had double the risk of obesity than those of normal birth weight (>or=2.5 to <4.0 kg). Maternal obesity was a strong predictor of obesity in the children. A child with an obese mother had nearly 2 times higher risk of being overweight (BMI between the 85th the 95th percentiles) and 3 times of being obese (BMI >or=95th percentile) compared to a child born to a mother with a normal body weight. CONCLUSION: Breastfeeding and its duration are not associated with obesity status. However, there is a positive association between child and maternal obesity.
Language: English

Keywords:
KUWAIT | RESEARCH REPORT | PREVALENCE | CHILDREN | BREASTFEEDING | OBESITY | BODY WEIGHT | CHILD HEALTH | Middle East | Developed Countries | Measurement | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infant Nutrition | Nutrition | Health | Physiology | Biology
Document Number: 341031  

20.    Subscription may be needed for full text     
Peer Reviewed

Title: Socioeconomic and environmental factors important for acquiring non-severe malaria in children in Yemen: a case-control study.
Author: Al-Taiar A; Assabri A; Al-Habori M; Azazy A; Algabri A; Alganadi M; Whitty CJ; Jaffar S
Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 Jan;103(1):72-8.
Abstract: Little is known about the relative importance of environmental and socioeconomic factors for acquiring malaria in Yemen. A case-control study was conducted to determine the importance of these factors for acquiring malaria among children in Yemen. Cases of non-severe malaria were recruited from health centres; community controls were from the neighbourhood of the cases. Data were collected by personal interview and direct inspection during home visits. In total, 320 cases and 308 controls were recruited. In the multivariate analysis, environmental factors (living near streams and freshwater marshes), earth roofs of houses and history of travel were all significantly and positively associated with the occurrence of malaria, whilst regular spraying with insecticides at home was a protective factor. There was no association with socioeconomic factors, including crowding, education and occupation of parents, and ownership of house assets. An index created based on a number of indicators of wealth showed a significant association with malaria in the univariate analysis but was not significant in the multivariate analysis. Control activities can be targeted on identifiable environmental factors such as stream and freshwater marshes, although this needs further investigation. Extra protective measures may be needed by all those who travel in Yemen.
Language: English

Keywords:
YEMEN | MIDDLE EAST | RESEARCH REPORT | CASE STUDIES | CHILDREN | MALARIA | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | RISK FACTORS | Developing Countries | Studies | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parasitic Diseases | Diseases | Economic Factors | Health
Document Number: 330835  

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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  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli are not a significant cause of diarrhoea in hospitalised children in Kuwait.
Author: Albert MJ; Rotimi VO; Dhar R; Silpikurian S; Pacsa AS; Molla AM; Szucs G
Source: BMC Microbiology. 2009;9:62.
Abstract: BACKGROUND: The importance of diarrhoeagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) infections in the Arabian Gulf including Kuwait is not known. The prevalence of DEC (enterotoxigenic [ETEC], enteropathogenic [EPEC], enteroinvasive [EIEC], enterohemorrhagic [EHEC] and enteroaggregative [EAEC]) was studied in 537 children < or = 5 years old hospitalised with acute diarrhoea and 113 matched controls from two hospitals during 2005-07 by PCR assays using E. coli colony pools. RESULTS: The prevalence of DEC varied from 0.75% for EHEC to 8.4% for EPEC (mostly atypical variety) in diarrhoeal children with no significant differences compared to that in control children (P values 0.15 to 1.00). Twenty-seven EPEC isolates studied mostly belonged to non-traditional serotypes and possessed beta and theta intimin subtypes. A total of 54 DEC isolates from diarrhoeal children and 4 from controls studied for antimicrobial susceptibility showed resistance for older antimicrobials, ampicillin (0 to 100%), tetracycline (33 to 100%) and trimethoprim (22.2 to 100%); 43.1% of the isolates were multidrug-resistant (resistant to 3 or more agents). Six (10.4%) DEC isolates produced extended spectrum beta-lactamases and possessed genetic elements (blaCTX-M, blaTEM and ISEcp1) associated with them. CONCLUSION: We speculate that the lack of significant association of DEC with diarrhoea in children in Kuwait compared to countries surrounding the Arabian Gulf Region may be attributable to high environmental and food hygiene due to high disposable income in Kuwait.
Language: English

Keywords:
KUWAIT | RESEARCH REPORT | CONTROL GROUPS | CHILDREN | BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL DISEASES | DIARRHEA | DIARRHEA, INFANTILE | PREVALENCE | ANTIBIOTICS | DRUG RESISTANCE | Middle East | Developed Countries | Research Methodology | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Infections | Diseases | Measurement | Drugs | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health
Document Number: 341689  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Expanding access to intrauterine contraception.
Author: Allen RH; Goldberg AB; Grimes DA
Source: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2009 Jun 13;
Abstract: The intrauterine device is a safe, highly effective, long-lasting, yet reversible method of contraception. Expanding access to intrauterine contraception is an important measure to reduce the rate of unintended pregnancy in the United States. Clinicians should consider intrauterine contraception in appropriate candidates, including women who are nulliparous, adolescent, immediately postpartum or postabortal, and desiring emergency contraception, and as an alternative to permanent sterilization. Barriers to intrauterine contraception such as requiring cervical cancer screening before insertion, routine testing for gonorrhea and chlamydial infection in low-risk women, or scheduling insertion only during menses are unnecessary.
Language: English

Keywords:
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA | CRITIQUE | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | IUD | CONTRACEPTIVE AVAILABILITY | MISINFORMATION | CONTRAINDICATIONS | INSERTION | PAIN | IUD EXPULSION | NULLIPARITY | Developed Countries | North America | Americas | Adolescents | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Contraceptive Methods | Contraception | Family Planning | Communication | Treatment | Medical Procedures | Medicine | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Signs and Symptoms | Diseases | Parity | Fertility Measurements | Fertility | Population Dynamics
Document Number: 341709  

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Title: The role of education level in the intergenerational pattern of adolescent pregnancy in Brazil.
Author: Almeida MC; Aquino EM
Source: International Perspectives on Sexual and Reproductive Health. 2009 Sep;35(3):139-146.
Abstract: Adolescent pregnancy has been associated with the early childbearing experience of the mothers of adolescents, and young people's education level is believed to be an important factor in this phenomenon. In 2002, a representative household survey collected data from 3,050 young men and women ages 20–24 in three Brazilian cities. The main measures were mother's age at first birth, daughter's age at first pregnancy, and son's age when he first impregnated a partner. Ages were dichotomized as younger than 20 and 20 or older. The distribution of respondents, by both their own and their mothers' reproductive experience, was analyzed in relation to various characteristics, and logistic regressions assessed possible associations between these variables and pregnancy experience. Thirty percent of women reported getting pregnant before age 20, and 21% of men said they were younger than 20 when they first impregnated a partner. Of these groups, 34% of women and 31% of men reported that their mothers had first given birth at the same age. Both women and men were more likely to have had an early pregnancy experience if their mother had had a child before age 20. Among women, this positive association disappeared in the final model after adjusting for their education level, whereas among men the association remained after similar adjustment.
Spanish Abstract: Contexto: El embarazo durante la adolescencia se ha asociado con la experiencia de la maternidad temprana de las madres de los y las adolescentes; y se considera el nivel educativo de la gente joven como un factor importante en este fenómeno. Métodos: En 2002, una encuesta representativa de hogares recolectó datos de 3,050 hombres y mujeres jóvenes de 20-24 años en tres ciudades brasileñas. Las principales medidas fueron la edad de la madre de los encuestados en el momento de su primer parto, la edad de la joven en el primer embarazo y la edad del joven al embarazar por primera vez a una pareja; los grupos de edad se dividieron en menores de 20 y de 20 años o mayores. La distribución de las personas encuestadas (tanto por su propia experiencia reproductiva como la de su madre), se analizó en relación con varias características, y se valoró mediante regresiones logísticas las posibles asociaciones entre estas variables y la experiencia del embarazo. Resultados: Treinta por ciento de las jóvenes reportaron haberse embarazado antes de los 20 años; y 21% de los hombres dijeron que eran menores de 20 años cuando su pareja se embarazó. De estos grupos, 34% de las mujeres y 31% de los hombres reportaron que sus madres habían dado a luz por primera vez a la misma edad. Tanto las mujeres como los hombres tuvieron mayor probabilidad de experimentar un embarazo temprano si su madre había tenido un hijo antes de los 20 años (razones de momios, 2.0 y 2.3, respectivamente). En las mujeres, esta asociación positiva desapareció en el modelo final, después de ajustar por nivel de educación, mientras que entre los hombres la asociación permaneció después de un ajuste similar (1.8). Conclusiones: El nivel de educación de las hijas e hijos parece ser un factor importante en la repetición de la fecundidad adolescente a través de las generaciones. Se necesita esfuerzos para aumentar el acceso a la educación y para alentar a la gente joven a que permanezca en la escuela.
French Abstract: Contexte: Les grossesses d'adolescentes ont été associées à l'expérience de la maternité précoce des mères des adolescents concernés et le niveau d'instruction des jeunes semble jouer un rôle important. Méthodes: En 2002, une enquête de ménages représentative a recueilli des données auprès de 3.050 jeunes hommes et femmes de 20 à 24 ans dans trois villes du Brésil. Les principales mesures ont porté sur l'âge de la mère à la première naissance, l'âge de la fille à la première grossesse et l'âge du fils au moment de la fécondation d'une partenaire. Les âges ont été dichotomisés entre moins de 20 ans et 20 ans ou plus. La distribution des répondants en fonction de leur propre expérience génésique et de celle de leur mère a été analysée selon différentes caractéristiques, tandis que les associations possibles entre ces variables et l'expérience d'une grossesse étaient évaluées par régressions logistiques. Résultats: Trente pour cent des femmes ont déclaré avoir été enceintes avant l'âge de 20 ans, tandis que 21% des hommes déclaraient avoir eu moins de 20 ans au moment de la fécondation de leur partenaire. De ces groupes, 34% des femmes et 31% des hommes ont déclaré que leur mère avait accouché pour la première fois à ce même âge. Tant les femmes que les hommes sont apparus plus susceptibles d'avoir connu une grossesse précoce si leur mère avait eu un enfant avant l'âge de 20 ans (rapports de probabilités, 2,0 et 2,3, respectivement). Côté féminin, cette association positive disparaît dans le modèle final après correction du niveau d'instruction; côté masculin, elle se maintient après correction similaire (1,8). Conclusions: Le niveau d'instruction des filles comme des fils semble jouer un rôle important dans la répétition de la fécondité adolescente d'une génération à l'autre. Des efforts sont nécessaires pour accroître l'accès à l'éducation et encourager les jeunes à poursuivre leur scolarisation.
Language: English

Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | SURVEYS | MOTHERS | ADOLESCENTS, FEMALE | ADOLESCENT PREGNANCY | AGE FACTORS | FIRST BIRTH | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | REPRODUCTIVE BEHAVIOR | FERTILITY | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Adolescents | Youth | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Population Dynamics | Pregnancy History | Fertility Measurements | Socioeconomic Status | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors
Document Number: 343004  

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Title: The use of home-based therapy with ready-to-use therapeutic food to treat malnutrition in a rural area during a food crisis.
Author: Amthor RE; Cole SM; Manary MJ
Source: Journal of the American Dietetic Association. 2009 Mar;109(3):464-7.
Abstract: When the international community declared a famine in Malawi in January of 2006, emergency food aid reached only populations with pre-existing health care services. To treat the widespread childhood malnutrition in Machinga district, a rural area lacking health care facilities, in February 2006 five outpatient therapeutic programs were implemented that utilized home-based therapy and ready-to-use therapeutic food. Children with severe malnutrition, defined as the presence of edema and/or a weight-for-height less than 70% of the reference standard, were enrolled in the program. Two senior clinical nurses trained village health aides in each of the five communities. Children visited the health aides biweekly. During the visits, health aides collected demographic and anthropometric information and distributed a 2-week supply of ready-to-use therapeutic food, providing 175 kcal/kg/d. Treatment continued for 8 weeks; children were discharged before 8 weeks if they reached a weight-for-height more than 100% of the reference standard, or required admission to the hospital due to systemic infection or recurrence of edema. Of the 826 children enrolled, 775 (93.7%) recovered, 13 (1.8%) remained malnourished, 30 (3.6%) defaulted, and 8 (0.9%) died. Mean weight gained was 2.7+/-3.7 g/kg/d, height gained 0.3+/-0.9 mm/d, and mid-upper arm circumference gained 0.2+/-0.3 mm/d. Home-based therapy with ready-to-use therapeutic food administered by village health aides is an effective approach to treating malnutrition during food crises in areas lacking health services.
Language: English

Keywords:
DEVELOPING COUNTRIES | MALAWI | RESEARCH REPORT | RURAL AREAS | COMMUNITY | CHILDREN | FAMINE | FOOD SECURITY | NUTRITION DISORDERS | ANTHROPOMETRY | BODY WEIGHT | BODY HEIGHT | MALNUTRITION | HOME CARE | TREATMENT | Africa, Southern | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Geographic Factors | Population | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Food Supply | Natural Resources | Environment | Diseases | Measurement | Research Methodology | Physiology | Biology | Care and Support | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Medical Procedures | Medicine
Document Number: 330803  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Changes in sexual behavior following a sex education program in Brazilian public schools. Mudancas no comportamento sexual de adolescentes de escolas publicas no Brasil apos um programa de educacao sexual.
Author: Andrade HH; de Mello MB; Sousa MH; Makuch MY; Bertoni N; Faundes A
Source: Cadernos de Saude Publica. 2009 May;25(5):1168-1176.
Abstract: This paper describes an evaluation of possible changes in sexual behavior in adolescents who participated in a school-based sex education program in selected public schools in four municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The program, given within the context of reproductive rights, dealt with risks involved in unsafe sexual practices, and focused on the positive aspects of sexuality. A quasi-experimental design with pre- and post-tests and a nonequivalent control group was used to evaluate the intervention. A total of 4,795 questionnaires were included in this analysis. The program succeeded in more than doubling consistent condom use with casual partners and in increasing the use of modern contraceptives during last intercourse by 68%. The intervention had no effect on age at first intercourse or on adolescents' engagement in sexual activities. The sex education program was effective in generating positive changes in the sexual behavior of adolescents, while not stimulating participation in sexual activities.
Language: Portuguese

Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | SECONDARY SCHOOLS | ADOLESCENTS | SEX EDUCATION | PARTICIPATION | CHANGES | SEX BEHAVIOR | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | SEXUALITY | RISK REDUCTION BEHAVIOR | CONDOM USE | PROGRAM EVALUATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Schools | Education | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Social Behavior | Behavior | Social Change | Sociocultural Factors | Human Rights | Political Factors | Personality | Psychological Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 340176  

27.
Peer Reviewed

Title: Changes in sexual behavior following a sex education program in Brazilian public schools.
Author: Andrade HH; Mello MB; Sousa MH; Makuch MY; Bertoni N; Faundes A
Source: Cadernos De Saude Publica. 2009 May;25(5):1168-76.
Abstract: This paper describes an evaluation of possible changes in sexual behavior in adolescents who participated in a school-based sex education program in selected public schools in four municipalities in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The program is inserted within the context of reproductive rights, deals with risks involved in unsafe sexual practices and focuses on the positive aspects of sexuality. A quasi-experimental design with pre and post-tests and a non-equivalent control group was used to evaluate the intervention. A total of 4,795 questionnaires were included in this analysis. The program succeeded in more than doubling consistent condom use with casual partners and in increasing the use of modern contraceptives during last intercourse by 68%. The intervention had no effect on age at first intercourse or on adolescents' engagement in sexual activities. The sex education program was effective in generating positive changes in the sexual behavior of adolescents, while not stimulating participation in sexual activities.
Language: English

Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | ADOLESCENTS | SEX BEHAVIOR | SEX EDUCATION | SCHOOLS | REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS | RISK BEHAVIOR | INTERVENTIONS | PROGRAM EVALUATION | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Behavior | Education | Human Rights | Political Factors | Sociocultural Factors | Programs | Organization and Administration
Document Number: 342612  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Improved sanitation and income are associated with decreased rates of hospitalization for diarrhoea in Brazilian infants.
Author: Andrade IG; Queiroz JW; Cabral AP; Lieberman JA; Jeronimo SM
Source: Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. 2009 May;103(5):506-11.
Abstract: Diarrhoeal diseases remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Brazilian children. However, from 1992 to 2001 there was a significant decline in hospitalizations for acute diarrhoea in children below 1 year of age in Brazil. A significant improvement in child health was also observed in the state of Rio Grande do Norte (RN), with a decrease in child mortality from 70 to 40 deaths per 1000. Using distributed lag analysis we analysed a number of factors possibly connected with decreased hospitalization in RN and found that hospitalization was correlated up to lag 3 with poverty (P<0.001) and inflation (P<0.001). Improvements in public health infrastructure such as better waste collection, presence of city water supply and increased sanitation, socio-economic variables such as education and literacy, and increased investment in health services were all important in reducing severe early childhood diarrhoeas and thus directly associated with the decrease in hospitalization. We also observed a positive seasonal correlation between rainfall and hospitalizations with an increased in rainfall impacting positively on hospitalization in all lags. The data suggests that increased buying power and reductions in poverty played a crucial role in reducing hospitalizations for acute diarrhoea in infants in RN.
Language: English

Keywords:
BRAZIL | RESEARCH REPORT | INFANT | DIARRHEA, INFANTILE | POVERTY | INFANT MORTALITY | SANITATION | HOSPITALS | PUBLIC HEALTH | SOCIOECONOMIC FACTORS | PREVENTION AND CONTROL | South America, Eastern | South America | Latin America | Americas | Developing Countries | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Population | Diarrhea | Diseases | Economic Factors | Mortality | Population Dynamics | Health | Health Facilities | Delivery of Health Care
Document Number: 342512  

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Title: Does where you live influence what you know? Community effects on health knowledge in Ghana.
Author: Andrzejewski CS; Reed HE; White MJ
Source: Health and Place. 2009 Mar;15(1):228-38.
Abstract: This paper examines community effects on health knowledge in a developing country setting. We examine knowledge about the etiology and prevention of child illnesses using a unique 2002 representative survey of communities and households in Ghana. We find that community context matters appreciably, even after adjusting for the anticipated positive effects of an individual's education, literacy, media exposure and household socioeconomic status. The proportion of literate adults and the presence of a market in a community positively influence a person's health knowledge. In other words, even if a person herself is not literate, living in a community with high levels of literacy or a regular market can still positively affect her health knowledge. Our results suggest that social networks and diffusion play a key role in these community effects. In turn, these results offer policy implications for Ghana and sub-Saharan Africa.
Language: English

Keywords:
GHANA | RESEARCH REPORT | KAP SURVEYS | COMMUNITY | CHILDREN | SOCIAL NETWORKS | KNOWLEDGE | LOCALE | CHILD HEALTH | DISEASE PREVENTION | EDUCATIONAL STATUS | LITERACY | MASS MEDIA | SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS | SOCIAL POLICY | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Surveys | Sampling Studies | Studies | Research Methodology | Residence Characteristics | Population Distribution | Geographic Factors | Population | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Demographic Factors | Friends and Relatives | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Health | Prevention and Control | Diseases | Socioeconomic Factors | Economic Factors | Communication | Policy | Political Factors
Document Number: 330296  

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Peer Reviewed

Title: Faith and child survival: the role of religion in childhood immunization in Nigeria.
Author: Antai D
Source: Journal of Biosocial Science. 2009 Jan;41(1):57-76.
Abstract: This study assessed the role of mother's religious affiliation in child immunization status of surviving children 12 months of age and older in Nigeria, using data from the 2003 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS). Guided by two competing hypotheses--the 'characteristics hypothesis' and the 'particularized theology hypothesis'--variations in the risks of child immunization in Nigeria were examined using logistic regression analysis. The results indicate that religion plays a role in the risk of non-immunization; religion was not associated with the risk of partial immunization; however, religion was significantly associated with the reduced risk of full immunization.
Language: English

Keywords:
NIGERIA | RESEARCH REPORT | DEMOGRAPHIC AND HEALTH SURVEYS | MOTHERS | CHILDREN | IMMUNIZATION | RELIGION | UTILIZATION OF HEALTH CARE | BELIEFS | Developing Countries | Africa, Western | Africa, Sub Saharan | Africa | Demographic Surveys | Population Dynamics | Demographic Factors | Population | Parents | Family Relationships | Family Characteristics | Family and Household | Sociocultural Factors | Youth | Age Factors | Population Characteristics | Primary Health Care | Health Services | Delivery of Health Care | Health | Culture
Document Number: 330568  
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