bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Perinatal and Neonatal Mortality in Rural India
Authors: Bhardwaj Neelam , Badrul Hasan S.
Published: September 2007

A prospective study conducted in rural India on pregnant women showed poor utilization of primary health services and very poor maternal care receptivity especially in terms of antenatal care. A very high perinatal mortality rate of 81.3/ 1000 live births and a neonatal mortality rate of 63.7/1000 live births was observed in the present study. Out of 204 live births, 72.05% of newborn developed complications within 6 weeks of the delivery. Most of the complications were of a minor nature and could be attributed to poor environmental conditions, lack of personal hygiene and ignorance. The study highlights the need for training of grass root level workers for the improvement of perinatal and neonatal care in rural India.
Socio-Cultural and Economic Factors Affecting Food Consumption Patterns in the Arab Countries
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman O.
Published: September 2007

Several factors have been found to determine the dietary habits of the people in the Arab world. Food consumption pattern has dramatically changed in some Arab countries as a result of sudden increase in income from oil revenue. It is believed that food subsidy policy has adversely affected the food habits in the Gulf states by encouraging the intake of fat, sugar, rice, wheat flour and meat. Socio-cultural factors such as religion, beliefs, food preferences, gender discrimination, education and womens' employment all have a noticeable influence on food consumption patterns in this region. Mass media, especially televised food advertisements, play an important role in modifying the dietary habits. The migration movement, particularly that which was carried out during the 70s has a great impact on the food practices in many Arab countries. Comprehensive studies on social, cultural and economic factors associated with food consumption patterns in the Arab region are highly recommended.
Nurses.. Bridging The Gap: Australian Aboriginals and Primary Health Care
Authors: Newman Barbara
Published: September 2007

This paper outlines a clinical learning experience designed to provide nursing students with experience in working with the Australian Aboriginal people. It also provided an opportunity for the concepts of primary health care from the rural perspective to be observed and experienced.

Walgett is 433 miles or 694 kilometres from Sydney and situated in the north west of the state of New South Wales (NSW).

Australia, being a large continent ofsome 7,682,300 square kilometres or 2,966,15 3 square miles, is divided into 7 states, of which New South Wales is the most populated (National Geographic Atlas of the World, 1981).
Smoking Habits of Students in Secondary Health Institutes in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdalla Abdel Wahid Saeed  , Al-Johali Eisa Al , Al-Shahry Ahmed Hussain
Published: September 2007

The smoking habits of all male and female students enroled in Riyadh Secondary Health Institutes of the Ministry of Health in 1990 were studied using a self-administered questionnaire.

The overall smoking prevalence was 22%. Cigarettes were virtually the only form of tobacco used. Males smoked about twice the females in terms of prevalence (24% and 14%) and intensity (14 and 6 cigarettes per day). The majority of smokers for both sexes started the habit at or before the age of 16 years and the majority of them thought seriously about quitting and attempted to quit but only 12% of them were so far successful. Psychologic pressures, smoking contacts and foreign travel were important factors in relapsers. Religious, health and professional considerations were the most important motives for attempting to quit the habit among smokers and for not attempting the habit itself for the non smokers.
Fathers and Breast Feeding: A Pilot Observational Study
Authors: Voss Simon , Finnis Louise , Manners Jacquie
Published: September 2007

A small pilot survey (n = 113) by questionnaire of the fathers of a sample of children under one year of age was undertaken in order to investigate the involvement of fathers with infant feeding and their attitudes to the method of feeding adopted. The response rate was 72% overall and 79% when the partners of 'single parent' mothers were excluded. Nearly 30% of respondents had not discussed the method of feeding with anyone, but over 60% had discussed it with their partner. 64% of fathers sometimes helped with feeding their child and 17% said that they always helped. The majority of fathers did not mind their partner breast feeding in front of friends or relatives but 42% did not like them feeding in front ofstrangers and over half did not like them breast feeding in a public place.

From this study, based on relatively small numbers, we conclude that fathers may feel left out of infant feeding. They should be given more opportunity to become involved from an early stage and take part in the decision about the method of infant feeding to be adopted.
Exploration of the Frontiers of Tradomedical Practices: Basis for Development of Alternative Medical Healthcare Services in Developing Countries
Authors: Osujih Michael
Published: September 2007

The study is a brief exploration of the functions and roles of the traditional healers in the total health care delivery system as a basis for tapping the salient features of this age old art: for the purpose of refining, and establishing it as an alternative medical health-care service. The investigation is considered relevant particularly in the developing countries where, in addition to the dearth of orthodox medical services, institutions and per sonnel, it is relatively cheaper, socio-culturally accessible and acceptable. Refining and developing some aspects of the traditional healers' services will serve the interest of the health consumers whose main concern is with service and not the source. Furthermore, it is hoped that the study will stimulate purposeful discussions on the need for an unbi ased examination of the materials, methods and techniques of the traditional healers including, eventually, compiling a native pharmacopoeia.

A more comprehensive account of the traditional healers contributions to the battle against diseases and maintenance of health and well being is envisaged.
Occupational Health: Control and Monitoring of Psychosocial and Organisational Hazards at Work
Authors: Cox Tom , Cox Sue
Published: September 2007

This paper considers the conceptualizations which underpin the traditional approach to occupational health and offers a critique; much ofwhich points up the importance ofpsychosocial and organizational issues. It then explores the possible devel opment of a new 3 factor model of concern - organisational health - based on health, work and organisation. It takes as its thesis the need to address the problems posed by psychosocial and organisational hazards at work and the argument that these can be managed effectively within the framework of practice that has proved successful for the more tangible workplace hazards.
Restorative Dental Care of the Geriatric Patient
Authors: Wilson Clive A.
Published: September 2007

Dental care of the elderly generally does not form a major area of study in the undergraduate curriculum, and seldom forms the main attraction at dental conferences. All too often treatment of the elderly is considered to be a backwater of prosthetic dentistry and little attention is paid to the restorative needs of this rapidly growing section of society. The aim of this paper is to identify the dental needs of an ageing population, and to focus the attention of the profession on these needs as well as to explode certain myths and prejudices associated with the treatment of patients in senescence.
Sexual Promiscuity: Knowledge of Dangers in Institutions of Higher Learning
Authors: Ebong R.D.
Published: September 2007

Knowledge of dangers of sexual promiscuity was assessed in 2 institutions of higher learning. The objectives were to find out the knowledge of medical and social consequences as well as the factors responsible for sexual promiscuity among Nigerian youths. The study also assessed the discrepancies in societal concept of sex norms for males and females. The result was used as an index to determine the need for sex education for Nigerian youths. A total of 200 students (100 from each school) was assessed by random selection and use of a questionnaire. The result showed that students had a fair knowledge of sexual promiscuity, although in terms of medical consequences the knowledge was low for both groups. On social consequences, the knowledge was fair for both groups. Students agreed that lack of financial support and of supervision from parents and teachers were among the causes of sexual promiscuity.

Recommendations were made for Health Education in these areas in institutions of higher learning. Also, recommen dations were made for parental education on how to bring up, and care for, their adolescents to reduce the problems of sexual promiscuity. It was also recommended that a compulsory course on sexual promiscuity should be included in the syllabus in institutions of higher learning.
Notables in the Environmental Health Management System in the USA
Authors: Akinmoladun Tunde M.
Published: September 2007

Key organizations or agencies in the US environmental health management system were identified, and the importance of each in the system was described. Assuming each active participant in the system continues to play its environmental protection role conscientiously, the result will be pollution control and prevention. In the end, humankind becomes the ultimate beneficiary.
Smoking, pregnancy and the fetus
Authors: Economides Demetrios , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: September 2007

Smoking may influence a women's reproductive ability by having adverse effects on fertility, the early embryo and the fetus. The ability to become pregnant and to maintain the pregnancy long enough for it to be clinically detected is reduced in smokers. Smoking can adversely influence seve ral of the crucial steps within the reproductive process required for achieving a pregnancy.

Despite the increased miscarriage rate in women that smoke there is no evidence to suggest that smoking can cause fetal abnormalities. The chemical composition of cigarette smoke is more closely related to reduction in fetal growth than the number of cigarettes smoked.

In smokers, the placenta appears remarkably normal. The effects of smoking could be due to one or more of the hundreds of different chemical substances in tobacco smoke, but apart from carbon monoxide and nicotine, little is known about the effects of other toxins. Nicotine can adversely affect uterine and placental blood flow by causing constriction of the blood vessels. It can also affect both the maternal and fetal blood pressure and heart rate, but its action on the fetal cardiovascular system does not appear to be dependent on its effect on placental perfusion.
Post Primary School Teachers' View Point on Reproductive Health and Contraceptive Practice among Schoolgirls in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Briggs Lawanson A.
Published: September 2007

The view point of secondary school teachers on reproductive health, specifically, their attitude towards contraceptive practice among sexually active schoolgirls and general opinion on teenage pregnancy was examined. A sample survey of teachers was conducted in all the registered girls and mixed post primary schools in Port Harcourt. A substantial proportion of teachers were of the opinion that sexually active schoolgirls should not be encouraged to use contraceptives because they damage reproductive organs. A greater proportion (33.8%) of teachers was also of the opinion that schoolgirls should abstain from sex until they are married. This was closely followed by the suggestion that sexually active girls should use contraceptives (20.8%). The majority (48.3 % ) of teachers, however, advocated a sex education programme in the schools in order to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
Smokers Have Less Dense Bones and Fewer Teeth
Authors: Johnston J.D.
Published: September 2007

Women and men who smoke are more slender than their non-smoking counterparts and have a bone density appro priate to their degree of slenderness. As a result, they are more likely to sustain a fracture than their non-smoking punterparts. The lower bone density found in smokers may arise because of less stress and strain imposed on the skeleton by a slim physique. Smokers have poorer oral hygiene and less teeth than their non-smoking counter parts. The relationship between smoking and tooth patho logy remains unclear: smoking may either act via a direct mechanism based on the toxicity of tobacco smoke or indirectly through body weight (ie the effect on teeth is part of a wider effect on bone structure).
Casualty Risk Reduction from Safety Seat Belts in a Desert Country
Authors: Bener A. , Achan N.V. , Sankaran-Kutty M. , Ware J. , Cheema M.Y. , Al-Shamsi M. Ali
Published: September 2007

A prospective study was carried out between December 1991 and October 1992 to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of hospitalized drivers regarding seat belt usage in United Arab Emirates (UAE). During this period, a total of 800 vehicle drivers were seen and treated in the Accident and Emergency Departments of two general hospitals. A total of 706 (88%) drivers gave consent for the study. The study showed that the rate of constant seat belt usage among drivers was 10.5%, and the rate of frequent seat belt usage was 5.8%. There was a statistically signifi cant difference between seat belting and age groups (p=0.0051). However, there were no significant statistical differences between seat belt usage versus non usage by sex, nationality and marital status. There were statistically significant differences between user and non-users of seat belts concerning their educational level and occupation. The results showed a reduction in the number of injuries due to usage of seat belts. Those patients who were not wearing seat belts were at risk twice as often as drivers who were restrained by belts. There was a statistically signifi cant difference between the number of persons injured wearing and not wearing seat belts, (p=0.032). It was observed that the majority of patients stated that seat belts are the best protective measure against all injuries (62.1%) and severe injuries (29.1%) of road traffic accidents. Also, there was strong support for the mandatory use of safety seat belts (56%). We may conclude that these data are encou raging, and would suggest general acceptance of seat belt legislation in the United Arab Emirates.
Knowledge and attitudes towards AIDS among primary health care physicians in the Asir Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Mahfouz Ahmed A. R. , Alakija Wole , Al-Khozayem Abdul-Aziz , Al-Erian Reda A. G.
Published: September 2007

Study Objectives: To assess the knowledge and attitudes towards AIDS among practicing physicians in the Asir Region, Saudi Arabia.

Design and Participants: A survey was carried out among primary health care (PHC) physicians working in the 238 PHC centers in the region. Self administered questionnaires were distributed to the 361 physicians working in these centers. Three hundred and twenty-eight responded (90.1%) and were included in the study. Non- respondents were found not to differ significantly from respondents with regards to sex, age and qualifications.

Main Results: The study revealed several gaps in their knowledge regarding AIDS. Of particular concern are those who are to be considered at high risk and modes of transmission of the disease.

Conclusions: These results indicate an urgent need to develop AIDS specific continuing medical education program to deal with erroneous ideas to convey the message properly to the public.
The application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) in a flight catering establishment improved the bacteriological quality of meals
Authors: Lambiri M. , Mavridou A. , Papadakis J.A.
Published: September 2007

Following an outbreak of salmonellosis affecting 415 passengers on flights in 1991, the associated flight catering establishment located on a Greek island was sur veyed for two years. During the first year of the survey, the bacteriological quality of food was not satisfactory. In an attempt to maximize food safety for crew and passengers the HACCP approach was implemented in 1993. Since its application, greatly supported by the management and staff, the bacteriological quality of aircraft meals was considerably improved.
A comparative study of generalised obesity and anatomical distribution of subcutaneous fat in adult White and Pakistani migrant males in Peterborough
Authors: Bose Kaushik
Published: September 2007

Obesity can be defined in two main ways - generalised obesity (measured as Body Mass Index (BMI)) and anatomical distribution of adiposity. A comparative study of generalised obesity (body mass index) and the anatomical distribution of subcutaneous fat in adult White and Pakistani migrant males was carried out in Peterborough. No signifi cant difference in the prevalence of obesity as measured by the BMI was observed between Whites and Pakistani migrants. The mean BMI values were similar in both ethnic groups. However, Pakistanis had significantly more truncal fat com pared with Whites whereas the latter group had more upper extremity fat compared with the former. No significant difference was observed in the amount of fat deposited on the lower extremities between the two ethnic groups. The Pakista nis also had significantly more total (sum of all skinfolds) subcutaneous fat compared with Whites.

These preliminary results clearly indicate that there is a tendency for accumulation of truncal adiposity in Asians of Pakistani origin compared with Whites irrespective of the level of generalised (BMI) obesity.

The health implications of body fat patterning on non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and coronary heart disease (CHD) are well known. It is possible that the pattern of fat distribution observed in migrant Pakistani males in this study exists in other migrant groups originating from the Indian subcontinent. This pronounced truncal distribu tion of body fat could be one of the risk factors predisposing migrant Asians in the UK to develop NIDDM and CHD irrespective of their BMI.

Future epidemiological studies should lay more emphasis on morphological fat patterning rather than BMI in Asian migrants in the UK.
Severity signs of childhood diarrhoea in north eastern Nigeria
Authors: Akpede George O , Omotara Babatunji A , Gazali Waziri
Published: September 2007

Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) use in Nigeria is currently far short of the na tional Control of Diarrhoeal Diseases (CDD) programme goals. Towards designing health education strategies to improve this, maternal lay health concerns during diarrhoea in under-fives were examined among two large ethnic groups, the Kanuris and Buras, in north- eastern Nigeria. Over half of the respondents judged the severity of diarrhoea by more than one sign and expected ORT to stop diarrhoea. Severity signs frequently described (averaging from a quarter to a half of respondents) included weakness and refusal of food; frequent stooling and fever were more frequently used by the Kanuris (p < 0.001) compared to Buras and weight loss and dehydration by the Buras (p < 0.01) compared to Kanuris. Generally, rural residents were less concerned with dehydration and weight loss (p < 0.0001 and 0.003 respectively, compared to urban residents) and more concerned with restlessness, including excessive crying (p < 0.07 to 0.0001). Stool characteristics and vomiting were rarely used as severity signs although the Kanuris in focus group discussions related severity to diarrhoea typology. Concerns with persistent diarrhoea, and diarrhoea associated with measles, were rarely expressed by participants, irrespective of ethnic group and domicile, suggesting that health education aimed at increasing awareness in relation to these two serious illnesses is urgently needed in Nigeria. Several of the lay health concerns expressed by participants in the study could form a useful basis for promoting ORT use in Nigeria and elsewhere.
Compliance with short-term antibiotic therapy among patients attending primary health centres in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Shammari S.A. , Khoja T. , Al-Yamani M J M S
Published: September 2007

Non-compliance results in several undesired consequences. Admissions due to non-compliance have been estimated to account for up to 10.5% of all admissions to hospi tal. There seems to be very little data about compliance in Saudi Arabia.

The present study addressed the problem of non-compliance with short-term antibiotic therapy in patients attending Primary Health Centres (PHC). The data were collected from five different centres selected randomly from the 53 centres in the Riyadh area, Saudi Ara bia. A five-part questionnaire was designed and used to collect data. Different parts were required to be completed by patient, doctor, pharmacist and social worker. At the end of the study period 414 questionnaires were suitable for evaluation. Paediatric patients (< 15 years old) constituted 65.9% of the sample. Compliance was noted in 67.8%. Those who missed three doses or less and more than three doses were 22.7% and 9.4% respectively. Factors which appeared to enhance patient compliance were: parental involvement (p<0.001), un employment (p<0.01), absence of psychiatric illness (p<0.02) and early improvement of symptoms (p<0.05).

Reasons most frequently mentioned by patients for non-compliance were: rapid improve ment of symptoms, bitter taste of drug(s), forgetfulness and frequent dosing. These reasons accounted for 73.7% of reasons for non-compliance.

Our findings suggest that approximately two thirds of patients were compliant with their medications. It is also worth noting that approximately three quarters of patients were not compliant for reasons which could be minimised or removed by good patient counsel ling and effective communication with patients.

At least one third of the patients did not use their drugs appropriately. These findings suggest that the problem of non-compliance needs to be further evaluated in this part of the world.
Rheumatic heart disease in India
Authors: Agarwal A.K. , Yunus M. , Ahmad J. , Khan A.
Published: September 2007

A cross-sectional study was carried out in rural areas of Jawan Block, District Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India, covering a total population of 3760 drawn from 11 villages. The total number of confirmed cases of rheumatic heart disease was 24 with a prevalence rate of 6.4 per 1000 of the general rural population. The prevalence of rheumatic heart disease increased with age until the age of 25 years. Females were more prone to rheumatic heart disease compared to males. Socio-economic class had a direct impact on the occurrence of rheumatic heart disease.
Lead toxicity and public health policy
Authors: Millstone Erik , Russell John
Published: September 2007

Senior UK scientists have recently acknowledged that lead exerts neurotoxic effects at blood lead levels even as low as 10 μg/dL. The implications of these findings for public policy are outlined, especially in relation to contamination of drinking water, soil and household dust. Estimates of the proportion of 6 year old children with elevated blood lead levels for several locations are also provided.
Immediacy concept application in the teaching of courses in environmental health
Authors: Akinmoladun Tunde M.
Published: September 2007

Immediacy, a communication behaviour, is defined and its application in the teaching of environmental health courses is illustrated. The practical experience gained from engaging in this teaching behaviour includes enhancement of student-professor relationships, affective learning and increased sensory stimulation, etc. The dynamics of this concept are exemplified in this article.
Cigarette smoking and health of the heart
Authors: Leone Aurelio
Published: September 2007

A large series of studies relate cigarette smoking to the development of cardio vascular damage. Both active and passive smoking seem to act negatively on the heart, although with different results. Active smoking impairs the cardiovascular system chroni cally causing mainly coronary atherosclerosis, whereas passive smoking impairs cardiac per formance transiently after acute exposure, and to a greater extent in those with established ischaemic heart disease.

Evidence indicates that the heart is a target organ for cigarette smoking (Leone, 1992). Diseases of the heart and blood vessels account for over one-third of all the excess deaths in smokers (follow-up report of the Royal College of Physicians, 1983).

The purpose of this report is to demonstrate some of the links between cardiovascular damage and smoking by reviewing our previous findings based on an Italian population.
Towards malaria control in Nigeria
Authors: Wagbatsoma V.A. , Ogbeide O.
Published: September 2007

Malaria is still highly prevalent in many tropical countries and this disease can only survive in areas where mosquitoes and infected human populations are high. Relevant information on the species of mosquitoes, their habitats and their population are important in planning preventative strategies in the control of malaria, hence this study.

Mosquito species and their habitats were investigated in both high and low density areas of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

The results showed that Culex pipiens fatigans, Aedes aegypti, Aedes albopictus, Anopheles gambiae and Culex trigripes were the commonest mosquitoes found in Benin City. Among the habitats studied, containers and gutters had the highest population of mosquitoes.

The serious public health implications of these various species of mosquitoes is the possi bility of outbreaks of infectious diseases like yellow fever, dengue, which some of these mosquitoes are known to transmit. Malaria, though endemic, is also important because of its associated high morbidity and mortality rates.

This study provides some useful information on the habitats and species of mosquitoes found in Benin City.

Follow-up studies are being carried out by the authors on quantitative studies on the population of these species of mosquitoes, the dissolved elements present in the different habitats that could promote or inhibit the breeding of mosquitoes, and KAP surveys on mosquitoes and malaria among the Benin populace. It is hoped that such comprehensive data would be very useful in planning effective preventative strategies in the control of malaria in Benin City.
Assessment of radon levels in soil and water
Authors: Yu K.N.
Published: September 2007

Radon gas and its progeny are radioactive and may induce lung cancer. A main source of indoor radon concentration is the radon gas which comes from the soil under a house or building. Therefore, accurate measurement of the radon concentrations in the soil are very helpful in identifying doubtful areas and in minimizing some radon hazards. A method of assessing the radon concentration in soil is described. The results were compared with the radon concentrations in associated water samples. It was found that the concentra tions in soil and water were correlated, except for some anomalies and that the measure ment of concentrations in soil were more direct and sensitive.
Dealing with drug misuse
Authors: Gabbay Mark B.
Published: September 2007

This paper provides a background to current trends in the treatment of drug misuse in the UK. It presents an argument for adopting a client-centred approach empha sising harm minimisation, as a means of reducing the negative impact of drug misuse be haviour on the community, particularly in housing estates. The paper concentrates on opiate misuse as this currently presents the greatest challenge to society in the UK, although the use of cocaine and other stimulants is on the increase.
Medicinal plants of Seychelles
Authors: Grainger C.R.
Published: September 2007

Plants are known to contain pharmacologically active substances. Traditional medical practitioners have considerable knowledge of herbal medicines. The Seychelles have many unique plants which have not been studied in depth. The people of Seychelles originate from diverse ethnic backgrounds which has resulted in a culture with a strong tra dition of use of herbal medicines and consultation with traditional healers. Some of the plants and their use in traditional healing are outlined.
Doctors at risk of hepatitis B and HIV infection from patients in Nigeria
Authors: Olubuyide I.O.
Published: September 2007

The aim of this study was to assess the degree of residents' concern about acquiring hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection from their patients at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria. We surveyed 149 resident doctors. The response was 89%. Nine per cent of the resident doctors reported percutaneous exposures to needles contaminated with blood of patients infected with HBV or HIV. Eighty per cent of the residents experienced moderate to major concern about contracting these viral infections from their patients. The majority of the doctors (54-64%) indicated that they should be allowed to decide for themselves whether to treat the infected patients. A substantial proportion of them (46-49% ) believed that refusing to take care of the patient was not unethical. About 86-96% of the doctors believed that the hospital as well as the Residency Training Programme administrators were not concerned about the risk of acquiring the viruses from their patients.

In general, the results demonstrate a major degree of concern about acquiring HBV and HIV infections among resident doctors. Moreover, there is a need for the hospital and Residency Training Programme administrators to formally address these concerns so as to motivate well and reassure these doctors. No such study exists that exclusively address this important and topical subject in doctors in tropical Africa.
Generalised obesity and regional adiposity in adult White and migrant Muslim males from Pakistan in Peterborough
Authors: Bose K.
Published: September 2007

A comparative study was made of generalised obesity (body mass index; BMI) and the regional distribution of adiposity (measured as circumferences and circumference ratios) in adult White and migrant Muslim males from Pakistan in Peterborough. No significant difference in the prevalence of obesity as measured by the BMI was observed between Whites and Pakistani migrants. Although the mean BMI values were similar in both groups, they had distinctly different body fat patterning. Whites had significantly more upper body, central body and lower body adiposity compared with Pakistani migrants. They also had significantly more total fat as well as upper body:lower body, upper body:central body, and upper body:total fat indices. Within the central body, Whites had significantly more adiposity in the waist region relative to abdomen region (Waist:Abdomen ratio). However, Pakistani migrants had significantly more abdominal adiposity relative to total adiposity (Abdomen:Sum of All Circumferences ratio) than Whites.

These preliminary results clearly indicate that there is a tendency for accumulation of adiposity in the abdominal region in Asian men of Pakistani origin compared with White men irrespective of the level of generalised adiposity. The health implications of body fat patterning on non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) and coronary heart dis ease (CHD) are well-known. The pattern of fat distribution observed in migrant Pakistani males in this study may exist in other migrant groups originating from the Indian sub-continent and could be one of the risk factors predisposing migrant Asians (persons originating from the Indian sub-continent) in Britain to develop NIDDM and CHD irrespective of their generalised (BMI) obesity. Future epidemiological studies should lay more emphasis on morphological fat patterning instead of BMI in Asian migrants in Britain.
Toward the assessment of psychological empowerment in health promotion: initial tests of validity and reliability
Authors: Rissel C. , Perry C. , Finnegan J.
Published: September 2007

Because of the importance of empowerment in health promotion, the measure ment of empowerment is a priority for health promotion research. The present study sought to develop a valid and reliable instrument to assess psychological empowerment and to resolve the theoretical question of whether psychological empowerment is a topic-specific or general construct. University of Minnesota employees (n = 160) completed two different versions of empowerment questionnaires. One of the questionnaires measured general empowerment; the other was specific to alcohol use prevention. Reasonable reliability was demonstrated in a previously developed general empowerment instrument (Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.84) and for an alcohol-specific instrument (Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.78). Construct validity for the alcohol- specific instrument was demonstrated by appropriate significant correlations between sub- scales and overall scores for both instruments. Predictive validity tests partially supported the concept that psychological empowerment is topic-specific, although further testing with a more representative population may be needed to resolve this question. The results suggest that the alcohol-specific psychological empowerment instrument could be used in the evaluation of community alcohol abuse prevention programmes.
A discussion of the environmental influences on asthma and the role of Environmental Health Officers in combating it
Authors: Griffiths S.D.
Published: September 2007

Asthma is a multifactorial disease and environmental influences have long been associated with its everyday symptoms. In recent years it has been proposed that environmental factors can also influence the actual development of the disease. Underlying genetic factors may interact with these common environmental factors. Thus, the environment may be involved in both the aetiology and the symptomatic manifestations of the disease. The discussion is completed by looking at the role of local authority Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) in combating asthma.
Occupational health status of sawmill workers in Nigeria
Authors: Fatusi A. , Erhabor G.
Published: September 2007

The health impact of exposure to sawdusts on 59 sawmill workers from south- west Nigeria was studied. Workers were chosen by a two-stage random sampling method from 15 privately owned sawmills. Peak flow and spirometric measurements were obtained from all workers. They also underwent a structured questionnaire which elicited occupationally related symptoms.

Age and sex matched controls consisting of 199 workers from similar socio-economic backgrounds as the subjects underwent similar questionnaire and lung function tests.

Results showed a high prevalence of respiratory symptoms, principally cough, chest pain and sputum production, among the workers. Most of the workers also had high prevalence of conjunctivitis, skin irritation and hearing difficulties when compared with controls. Pulmonary function parameters were also significantly lower (p < 0.05 in sawmill workers than controls).

Although a large number (94.9% ) of the workers were aware of the potential hazards of exposure to sawdusts, less than 20% wore protective masks. Our study highlights the need for health and safety regulation in the workplace. There is also a need for improved methods of dust control in factories with high levels of dust particulates, particularly in the developing world.
Radon in surface water on Jersey
Authors: Grainger C.R.
Published: September 2007

A survey of surface water was undertaken, in Jersey, in 1994, to measure the concentration of radon. Over most of the island the levels were found to be low. The highest levels correlated with the areas where granite was intruded into older rocks. The levels found could lead to elevated concentrations in some dwellings but it was felt that radon was not a major risk to the health of the public.
Healthcare outcomes management and quality improvement
Authors: Al-Assaf A.F.
Published: September 2007

Until recently, the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) has relied on structure measures in drafting their annual Hospital Standards for Accreditation Manual. Peer Review Organizations (PROs), on the other hand, relied on process indicators in evaluating quality of care provided to Medicare patients. Currently, however, a new movement called 'outcomes management' is evolving to include a number of areas that impact on the quality of patient care. It focuses on using outcome measures to manage quality. This trend toward outcome management is driven by economics and, to a lesser extent, by the curiosity of providers and researchers. In this paper the concept of outcomes management is presented, along with the objectives, the methods for implementation, and its relationship to quality improvement.
Studies of risks associated with technological development in Nigeria
Authors: Ezenwa Afamdi O
Published: September 2007

This paper attempts to assess the magnitude of the risks associated with industrial and transportation technologies in Nigeria using data from various governmental agencies and private organisations.

The minimum annual averages of injured persons and data from accidents associated with technological risks in Nigeria were as follows: factories - 402.4 injured persons and 5.8 deaths; petroleum industry - 106.5 injured and 45.3 deaths; road traffic accidents - 25,262 injured persons and 9,117 deaths; and railways 170.5 injured persons and 43.2 deaths. Of the eleven plane crashes reported between 1978 and 1991 the nine crashes for which information was disclosed claimed 352 lives. The highest technological risk is from road traffic accidents. The annual average death from road traffic accidents (9,117) was 1.05 times the annual average death (8,662) from communicable diseases and 1.2 times the number of deaths (7,711) from cholera epidemics in 1991.

Between 1988 and 1991 there were 855 reported cases of occupational diseases with an annual average of 214 cases. Conjunctivitis, dermatitis, chronic bronchitis and bronchial asthma accounted for 91% of the 855 reported cases. The observations reflect the techno logical risk situation in Nigeria, and the need for improvements in both reducing risks and increasing the recording of risk statistics.
A survey of the adequacy of Video Display Terminal/Unit equipment in 7 local authorities in the Midlands
Authors: Maguire K.
Published: September 2007

In order to assess the adequacy of equipment in the run-up to the full implementation of the Display Screen Equipment Regulations, several local authorities agreed to take part in a pilot survey of their own video display terminals. The instrument was a self-reporting questionnaire based on the new regulations. A number of the questionnaires were also completed in parallel by EHOs in order to assess the objectivity with which questionnaires were completed. The surveys found many deficiencies but discovered that respondents with better levels of training were less critical of their work station. The reasons for this are discussed. The parallel inspection validated the instrument and suggests that self-inspection by users is a good indicator of some conditions at the work station but not of temperature, light, or relative humidity. Occupational stress was also measured. The levels were above UK average and levels of depression were found to be associated with respondents' aches and pains.
How to write a scientific paper
Authors: Bender A.E.
Published: September 2007

The essential requirements of a scientific paper are described although each journal publishes its own specific 'Guidelines for Contributors' which may differ to some extent from those required by other journals. It is essential to follow such guidelines and to check and recheck your paper.
Work-related stress
Authors: Grayham Derek A.
Published: September 2007

This paper considers many of the aspects of work-related stress, including problems of definition, the legal duties and responsibilities of employers towards their employees concerning stress. It includes an outline of some of the possible financial consequences (and legal penalties) if employers do not, so far as is reasonably practicable, take appropriate action to remove, reduce or alleviate work-related stressors affecting their employees' health. The paper concludes with a summary of a range of coping strategies which will assist employers to comply with legislative requirements and duties.
Infant mortality in the rural Riyadh region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Nahedh Nora
Published: September 2007

A prospective study of a cohort of infants born in 1987 was carried out until they were one year old.

Five villages were selected at random. All the babies born in 1987 in these villages were identified by a group of trained nurses. These nurses collected morbidity and mortality data on these children each time the events occurred using a structured data collection form. Data were analysed using relevant demographic and statistical techniques.

A total of 4,963 babies was born during the period of study. The neonatal mortality rate was 21.4 per 1,000 live births and the infant mortality rate was 53.8 per 1,000. The post neonatal death rate was 32.5 per 1,000 live births. The causes of infant deaths as presumed from reported signs of last illness were gastroenteritis, respiratory problems, preterm birth complications and congenital abnormalities.

It was concluded that there is a decline in the infant mortality rate compared with previous estimated rates, but the high levels of neonatal death rates call for improved ante natal and obstetric health services. The high postneonatal death rate indicates the potential for a further reduction.
Dietary advice in the management of diabetes mellitus - history and current practice
Authors: Blades M. , Morgan J.B. , Dickerson J W T
Published: September 2007

Diet has been recognised for over three thousand years as being vital to the overall management of diabetes mellitus (DM). Today dietary advice for the person with diabetes continues to play just as an important role, not just as regards the day to day control but also in respect of the prevention of complications. The history of dietary advice for diabetes is examined as well as current dietary advice.
Discussion of the controversies associated with prostate cancer screening
Authors: Wolfe E.S. , Wolfe W.W.
Published: September 2007

Early detection of prostate cancer through screening seems to provide the best hope of control or possibly cure of the disease. Unfortunately, controversy and confusion surround the screening guidelines. Specifically, the controversy involves whether the screening of asymptomatic men, particularly those under age 50, should be recommended.

To date, there have been no randomised clinical trials which have demonstrated that screening for prostate cancer reduces mortality or increases life expectancy.

The lack of evidence regarding the benefits of prostate screening and the risk of adverse effects make it important for clinicians to provide information to interested patients regarding the possible consequences before they take part in screening endeavours. Other health care professionals must be proactive in becoming informed about the entire prostate screening issue.
A profile of 100 complicated cases of chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: Matin M A A , Khan A.H. , Khan F.A. , Haroon A.A.
Published: September 2007

A two year study of cases of chronic suppurative otitis media admitted in the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Department of Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital from January 1991 to December 1992 was done. 112 patients of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) were admitted during this two year period, out of which 100 patients (89.3%) presented with different types of complications and only 12 patients (10.7%) presented with no complications. Factors associated with the late presentation of the disorder, including poor socioeconomic conditions and lack of hospital facilities, are identified. Measures to prevent the rate of conmplications and hearing loss in children are suggested.
Essential oils and 'aromatherapy': their modern role in healing
Authors: Lis-Balchin M.
Published: September 2007

'Aromatherapy' is one of the most actively growing forms of alternative medicine combining massage together with counselling and a nice odour. Most clients suffer from some kind of stress-related disorder and aromatherapy encourages the healing process largely through relaxation and the relief of stress. Stress is also a major problem in hospitals, hospices and homes for the aged and physically or mentally-challenged. Aromatherapy is welcomed by nurses who want to be closer to their patient and doctors who can refer patients with stress-related disorders who do not respond to conventional medicines.

The actual mode of action of essential oils in vivo is still far from known, although there is strong in vitro evidence that essential oils can act as an antimicrobial or antioxidant agent or have a pharmacological effect on various tissues. Studies have shown that essential oils have an effect on brainwaves and can also alter behaviour. It is possible that most of the effect of the oils is probably transmitted through the brain via the olfactory system. Used professionally and safely, aromatherapy can be of great benefit as an adjunct to conventional medicine or used simply as an alternative.
The influence of smoking habits on thyroid gland volume: an ultrasonic approach
Authors: Georgiadis E. , Papapostolou C. , Korakis T. , Evagelopoulou K. , Mantzoros C. , Batrinos M.
Published: September 2007

The effects of smoking habits on thyroid function, echo-texture (nodules and/or cysts) and thyroid gland volume were determined by using ultrasound and measuring serum Thyroxin (T4), Triiodothyronine (T3), Thyrotropin (TSH) and TPO antibodies (ab-TPO) in 189 healthy smokers and non-smokers, randomly selected (111 females and 78 males) among the employees of our hospital and their relatives. When the entire group of subjects was considered the mean ratio of thyroid gland volume/body weight was found to be significantly higher in male (P<0.05) and female (P<0.05) smokers compared with non- smokers. In female smokers, mean serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) was lower (P<0.05) and the degree of smoking was positively correlated with the ratio of thyroid gland volume/body weight (P<0.05). However, when the subjects with a family history of goitre in first degree relatives were excluded from our study (14 females and 9 males), no significant differences in mean ratio of thyroid volume/weight or TSH between the remaining smokers and non-smokers were detected. In both sexes, the correlation between the degree of smoking and thyroid volume, although positive, did not reach statistical significance. No difference in prevalence of abnormal echogenicity and echo-texture (nodules and cysts) between smokers and non-smokers was detected.

It is concluded that smoking habits present a goitrogenic effect only in subjects with a family history of goitre but have no influence on thyroid gland texture.
Secondary prevention of stroke — an update
Authors: Forbes C.D.
Published: September 2007

Stroke disease remains a national priority due to the high morbidity and mortality. Good clinical practice dictates that risk factors are identified and corrected. Various therapeutic regimens have been tested in trials of sufficient strength to give answers. In the second European Stroke Prevention Study (ESPSZ), low dose aspirin (50 mg/d), sustained release dipyridamole (200 mg/d) were shown to reduce recurrence of stroke and TIA. The combination was twice as effective. Also in the Clopidogrel/aspirin Prevention of Recurrence of Ischaemic Events (CAPRIE) trial clopidogrel was shown to be superior to aspirin.

In clinical practice patients with stroke or TIA should be investigated rapidly, their risk factors corrected and appropriate drug regimens implemented.