bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subjective Health Feeling and Health Care Utilization Among Nigerian Elderly
Authors: Togonu-Bickersteth Funmi
Published: September 2007

SECONDARY ANALYSIS of data to measure relationship between perceived health status and reported health care utilization among 145 Nigerian males 50 years and older.

Results show an inverse relationship between perceived health status and health care utilization: individuals who perceive their health negatively paid more visits to the doctors than those who view their health positively. Age, income or stoicism appear to have no influence on this relationship between subjective health feelings and health care utiliza tion.
Epidemiology of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Jeddah
Authors: Bener Abdulbari , El-Sayyad G.M.
Published: September 2007

ONE OF THE problems of congested urban areas involves traffic accidents. It affects the quality of daily life and has major social and economic consequences. Road traffic accidents are an epidemic of modern times. Epidemio logical studies are important for its control. Three factors are usually blamed: the driver, the vehicle and the environment. This study has revealed the magnitude of the problem during six years in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The following facts have emerged: There is a high factor of excessive speed (66%); high percentage of non licenced drivers (40%); high rate of accidents by drivers aged 18-30 (46%); and high percentage of pedestrian involvement (36%). Recommendations to improve the situation are made.
The Placebo Effect: A Controversy
Authors: Athique Maroof M.
Published: September 2007

THIS PAPER examines the placebo effect with regards to the natural healing properties of the human body. In many modern medical researches over a third of the population have shown a positive effect for placebos in double blind trials. Yet, no study has been attempted to explain the unexplained curing effects of placebos, a subject that is conveniently swept under the carpet by modern science. The amazing capabilities of the human mind and body to rid itself of disease were recognised and applied by the traditional medical systems. The human body is too complicated to rationalize, and is endowed with nature's finest defence system in order to preserve itself. There are no placebos, except the self-healing powers of the body and mind.
Progress in the diagnosis of anorexia nervosa
Authors: McSherry J.A.
Published: September 2007

CURRENTLY ACCEPTED diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa are unduly rigorous and their use counterproductive since they recognise the disorder only in its most severe forms.

More flexible alternative diagnostic criteria encourage anorexia nervosa diagnosis in the early stages of the disorder when intervention is more likely to be fruitful.

The Eating Attitudes Test (EAT 26) offers a convenient and reliable method for assessing the psychological com ponent of this complex disorder of psyche and soma.
Schick Test Survey in Rural Children of Jawan Block, District Aligarh, (U.P), India
Authors: Mohammad Yunus Khan
Published: September 2007

THE PRESENT study conducted in three villages of Jawan block, Aligarh, India on 576 children showed a higher immunity to diphtheria in the age group of 3 months to 5 years. 99.3% children studied were shick negative. Only 4 children below the age of 3 years (0.7%), showed the positive schick test. Each of the 4 children belonged to lower social classes of illiterate Hindu parents and were not previously immunised against diphtheria.
Selected Factors and Stroke in Young Adults, 15-40 Years of. Age
Authors: Oleckno William A.
Published: September 2007

HOSPITAL-BASED case-control study was conducted to determine the degree of association between cigarette smoking, alcohol use, drug use, and prior medical disorders and the development of stroke in young adults, 15-40 years of age. Cases consisted of 80 patients with a discharge diagnosis of stroke, excluding subarachnoid hemorrhage and transient cerebral ischemia, admitted to one of four community hospitals in northern Illinois between 1975 and 1983. Controls included 321 injury patients matched to cases by hospital and year of admission. The proportion of drug users and those with a history of medical disorders was significantly higher in cases than controls. Cigarette smoking and alcohol use did not appear to be risk factors for stroke, although the risk was obscured by the apparent association of these factors with injuries in the control group. Had community controls been selected it is possible that positive associations may have been found.
Health Manpower and Population Change in Nigeria
Authors: Ezenwa Afamdi O.
Published: September 2007

HEALTH SERVICES in Nigeria were initially pro vided by traditional doctors followed by phys icians brought by Portuguese traders to care for the health of their staff. The effort to provide modern medical care for the Nigerian population was initiated by the missionaries who established hospitals by the 1850s. Government institutions which started later in the 19th Century with a unified system of health services expanded very slowly until 1952 when the system was first decentral ised. Even after decentralisation the limited economy did not permit rapid expansion until the 1970s when the economy was greatly improved by the marketing of Nigerian petroleum permitting rapid development of health manpower and establishments. The numbers of the various categories of health personnel in recent years appear to be increasing at a rate higher than that of the population growth resulting in continued higher health manpower versus population ratio but there is still the need for improvement. The present level of health manpower in Nigeria is lower than those of the majority of the developing countries possibly due to the large popula tion of Nigeria and the initial lag in development. There is need for training greater numbers considering the size (about 96 million) of the Nigerian population and the target of providing health for all by the Year 2000. Other factors which need improvement include the uneven distribution of health manpower and the establishments between the urban and rural areas, transportation problems and the distance from the health facilities, cost of medication, and the adherence of a large percentage of the population to traditional beliefs and practices.
Theoretical Considerations and Applications of Relaxation Training for Children
Authors: Bruno-Golden Barbara
Published: September 2007

ELAXATION may be seen as a behavioural state, usually defined by the specific operations that are used. Implications for children are far-reaching, and include possibilities for enhancing application with intel lectual, social, and emotional development. Improvements in learning, health, and general quality of life have been among the benefits of relaxation programmes.

The effort of relaxing carries with it autonomic responses which are opposite and antagonistic to those characteristic s of anxiety and other symptom-related stresses. Relaxation is also a means to develop a coping skill. Helping professions working with children should be actively involved in applying these techniques as a self control process which may reduce unnecessary and potentially harmful tension.

The main purposeof this article is to review the current status of relaxation as an intervention option and to urge extended and more aggressive utilisation.
Diarrhoeal Disease in Bottle Fed Children
Authors: Cherian Annie , Lawande Ravindra V.
Published: September 2007

HE LARGE recovery of pathogens from feeding bottles of fifty children under thirty months was compared against their nutritional status and symptoms of diarrhoeal disease. 56% malnutrition was observed. Symptoms of illnesses was common to well nourished (82%) and malnourished children (89%).

All the bottles of the malnourished children had been contaminated, of which 96% had been contaminated with enteric pathogens. Among the well nourished children, 77% of the bottles had been contaminated with enteric pathogens.

Continued consumption of feeds from dirty feeding bottles and poor hygienic practices suggest that these children could develop recurrent attacks of diarrhoeal diseases which could affect their nutritional status.
Infant Protein Energy Malnutrition in Nigeria
Authors: Ojofeitimi E.O. , Ajao O. , Ighere J.E.
Published: September 2007

EIGHTY VILLAGE mothers whose children were suffering from covert or overt malnutrition were interviewed as to the names given to protein energy malnutrition (PEM), its causes, prevention, infant feeding practices and cultural food practices. PEM was recognized as digestive disorder and enlarged spleen by 25% and 31% of the mothers respectively. About 25% and 10% of the participants attributed the cause of PEM to intestinal worms, child's frequent sickness respectively. Means of preventing the disease included the use of charms through scarifications, herbs, and prayers. The majority of the mothers had no idea as to the causes and prevention of PEM.

Animal protein sources top the list of foodstuffs proscribed to the infants. The reasons for taking health care and growth monitoring to the rural areas by Community health workers are highlighted.
Sheltered Housing in Primary Geriatric Health Care in Hong Kong
Authors: Woo Jean
Published: September 2007

THE PROBLEM of health care of the elderly in developing countries such as Hong Kong is discussed. The setting up of a sheltered housing programme for those most at risk forms an important contribution to geriatric health care.
Louse Borne Relapsing Fever (LBRF): Mortality and Frequency of Jarisch-Herxheimer Reaction
Authors: Zein Zein Ahmed
Published: September 2007

The charts of 132 louse-borne relapsing fever (LBRF) patients admitted to a teaching and provincial hospital in Northwestern Ethiopia covering the period 1970-1985 were analysed.

Of the 83 males (62.9%) and 49 (37.1%) females, there were 97 patients treated with varying doses of intramuscular procaine penicillin (100,000-600,000 u) as well as a group of 35 patients treated with single or multiple doses of tetracycline. The average age of tetracycline-treated and penicillin-treated groups was similar, but 65.7% of the former group were above 20 years of age while 51.6% of the latter group were above 20 years of age. The overall rate of the Jarisch-Herxheimer (J-HR) reaction was 21.2%. The corresponding rates in penicillin- and tetracycline-treated groups were 24.7% and 11.4% respectively. Although the frequency of the J-HR reaction is twice as large in the penicillin-treated group as compared with the tetracycline- treated group, the difference is not statistically significant (P>0.05). Similarly the overall death rate following antibiotic treatment was 3.8%. In terms of the J-HR reaction, there were more deaths in the penicillin-treated group (4.1 %), with 2.8% in the tetracycline group. In terms of the frequency as well as mortality from the J-HR reaction, it appeared that penicillin had no therapeutic advantage over tetracycline, and the latter was associated with less frequent J-HR reaction and death. These findings are in contrast to the preference for penicillin in the treatment of hospitalized LBRF patients in Ethiopia at present. As there is no concensus on the treatment of LBRF, a multicentre trial involving older and more recent antibiotics is recommended.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Zambia
Authors: Sajiwandani Jonathan J. , Baboo K.S.
Published: September 2007

THE HIGHER prevalence of Sexually Trans mitted Diseases (STDs) such as syphilis and gonorrhoea is one of the health problems among the major diseases in Zambia today in spite of the available medical care for these diseases. In addition there is a new and more serious Autoimmune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) among the STDs. Are there any measures that might successfully assist in bringing about the control of these diseases? In this paper an attempt has been made to answer this question in order to help the Health Authorities in their efforts to combat these diseases by implementing, as an 'Action Research', a simple Control Strategem making full use of the available resources and facilities. Nurses are seen as a major resource and school and other local buildings as possible facilities to be used in the strategem. The paper also suggests that all health workers should apply the discussed psychological approach guidelines in all activities of treatment, health education, contact- tracing and counselling.
Health attitudes among King Saud University Students
Authors: Anokute Charles C.
Published: September 2007

A VOLUNTEER SAMPLE of students, in three colleges of King Saud University was surveyed for knowledge, attitude and health promoting behaviour. Data were collected by self administered questionnaires. Results showed that there was no sig nificant difference between medical and allied medical students on health promoting behaviour. Medical students were a little stronger than allied medical students on knowledge while both medical and allied medical students together displayed better attitudes than science students.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Nasser Abdul-Aziz Nasser , El-Shabrawy Aboul-Enein M. , Al-Aska Abdul-Karim
Published: September 2007

THIS RETROSPECTIVE study is aimed at evalu ation of demographic and clinical aspects of sys temic lupus erythematosus (S.L.E.) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Sixty-three confirmed and hospitalised S.L.E. patients were investigated in the major hospitals of Riyadh City during the period 1977-1985.

Females comprised 82.54% of cases. The average age for the total group was 25.95 ± 10.27 years. Only one case had a family history of S.L.E.

The pattern of signs and symptoms included the following in order of magnitude: fever (92%). arthralgia (87.3%), anaemia (76.2%), renal lesions (66.7%), butter fly rash (66.7%), miscellaneous affections ranged from 31.7% to 12.7%. The anti-nuclear factor was suggestive of S.L.E. in 95.2% of cases. DNA antibodies were indicative of S.L.E. in 66.7% of cases. L.E. cells were encountered in 65%.

In 65% of cases, no predisposing factor could be elicited. There was difficulty in diagnosis as shown by periods elapsing till confirmed diagnosis was made. Only 20.6% were diagnosed within the first three months and 49.2% were diagnosed within the first year. This signifies that almost 51 % of cases escape diagnosis during the first year and may lose the chance to have early treatment.

The improvement rate was 11.7%.

The case fatality rate was 15.3%.

The exacubation rate was 32.2%

Complications were encountered in 22% of cases.
Improvement of Sanitation in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Omishakin M. Ademola , Sridhar M.K.C. , Ofor D.S.
Published: September 2007

THIS PAPER describes how a community in Nigeria learnt to appreciate the inter-relationsh ips between poor sanitation and health as a result of health education intervention for a period of 12 months. The results have been encouraging, as the com munity has begun to use simple technologies such as drum and mud incinerators for the burning of refuse.
Back and Neck Problems in a Teaching Institution
Authors: Chan Kitty K.C. , Ling Lydia C.C.
Published: September 2007

THE INCIDENCE of back and neck problems among the staff of the University of Hong Kong was studied. They were found to be more preva lent in the 31-40 and the older age groups and in the female sex. Good posture, suitable furniture design, and regular exercise were shown to be beneficial to back and neck health.
Tritium and Health
Authors: Grainger C.R.
Published: September 2007

TRITIUM is produced naturally by the interaction of cosmic rays with the atmosphere and in nuclear reactions in rock. Large quantities of tri tium are produced artificially in the nuclear industry and during the testing and use of thermonuclear weapons. Tritium enters the hydrological cycle and is incorporated into organic substances, including tissues, and becomes one sources of internal radiation of man.

Radiation is a cause of mortality and morbidity. Much can be done to reduce the possible level of irradiation due to tritium by careful control of indus trial processes using or producing tritium and by not testing or using thermonuclear weapons in the atmos phere.
Vitamin Supplementation in Pregnancy
Authors: Best Alison , Little Julian , Macpherson Marion
Published: September 2007

THE AIM of the study was to investigate the extent and determinants of vitamin supplementation in early pregnancy.

Some 246 women were recruited in the antenatal clinics of a major teaching hospital and asked to com plete a brief questionnaire relating to sources of advice and details of diet and vitamin supplementation during the index pregnancy. Further information was abstracted from routine antenatal records. A total of fifty-seven women (23%) took some form of vitamin supplement during the index pregnancy. Factors which affected supplementation included advice received from diverse sources and whether or not the women took iron supplements. Somewhat surprisingly, supplementation was not affected by age, social class or reproductive history.
A Simple Tool for Heart Disease Risk Appraisal in General Practice
Authors: Dlugolecka Maria J. , King Sibyl A.
Published: September 2007

Health promotion is becoming an increasingly promi nent part of the workload of the primary health care team. Widening a consultation out to encompass general health matters can be difficult and time consuming. In this paper a simple tool to assist general practitioners and primary health care workers to discuss coronary heart disease risk factors is outlined and the experience gained in West Dorset is described.
The Epidemiology of Road Traffic Accidents in Jordan
Authors: Jadaan Khair S.
Published: September 2007

A REVIEW of the problem of road traffic acci dents (RTA) in Jordan is presented with a special reference made to hospitalised accidents. Analy sis of time-series data on road traffic accidents (RTA) between 1979 and 1985 showed a rising trend. Over three-quarters of accidents occur in urban areas and during daylight while pedestrians constitute over 40% of all in juries.

A detailed analysis of 1986 RTA has revealed that more accidents occur on Saturdays (the first day of working week) and during summer months. Out of all drivers involved 96% were male and 95% were Jordanians. Three-quarters of injured pedestrians were less than 20 years of age, a group which constitutes only 60% of total population.

Analysis of hospitalised RTA showed that head injuries were the most common type followed by extremities while 73% of total injuries involved people less than 30 years of age. Joint and upper extremity injuries required the longest and the shortest periods of stay in hospitals respectively.
Smoking Habits of Elderly Diabetic Patients
Authors: Banerjee Arpan K.
Published: September 2007

THE results of a survey of smoking habits in elderly diabetic patients are presented. Our survey suggests that most elderly diabetics are non-smokers and that the latter group are less likely to require insulin than their smoking counterparts. The majority of patients who gave up smoking following the diagnosis of diabetes did so following their doctor's advice and we suggest that all diabetic patients should be discouraged from smoking by their doctors.
Overweight and Obesity in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Awadi Fawzia , Amine Ezzat K.
Published: September 2007

THE AIM of this study was to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adult females. A multistage stratified sample of 2999 adult females was examined. 52.5% were found to be overweight (10-20% above reference weight tables) and 42% obese (more than 20% above reference standards). The numbers increased with age. There were fewer obese and more overweight the higher the standard of education, with a similar pattern with the husbands' standard of education. Obesity was more prevalent (46.8%) in non-working women, 36.8% among those in management and 32.9% among those in technical work, while the corresponding figures for those overweight were 47.7%, 56.9% and 62.2%. The prevalence of obesity increased with family size while that of overweight fell. A similar pattern was found with the number of children. Family income was inversely related to the prevalence of obesity and positively related to overweight.
Accidental Poisoning of Children in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulaziz Al-Sekait Mohammed
Published: September 2007

THERE WERE 7142 cases of accidental poisoning in children admitted to all Riyadh Governmental Hospitals during the five years period (1983-87). Household products were the most common poisoning agent, accounting for 59% of all cases. This was followed by drugs (39%), and plants (2%). Children aged one to two years were the most affected. The fatality rate was 0.1% . This study indicates that improved living conditions, proper storage of the drugs and chemicals as well as health education of parents will help in reducing the incidence of poisoning.
Breastfeeding and Breast Milk Jaundice
Authors: Leung Alexander K.C. , Sauve Reginald S.
Published: September 2007

TWO TYPES of jaundice associated with breast feeding are recognized. The first type is early onset breastfeeding jaundice which may result from caloric deprivation and/or insufficient frequency of feeding. This type of jaundice can be prevented or treated by encouraging mothers to nurse as frequently as possible, particularly if the bilirubin level is rising. The second type is later onset, prolonged jaundice, known as the breast milk jaundice syndrome which is associated with one or more abnormalities in the maternal milk itself. Breast milk jaundice syndrome generally needs no therapy if serum bilirubin concen trations remain below 270 μmol/l in healthy full-term infants. When the serum bilirubin concentration is above 270 μmol/l and rising, temporary interruption of breastfeeding may be indicated.
The Asian Mother and Baby Campaign (The Leicestershire Experience)
Authors: Mason E.S.
Published: September 2007

LEICESTERSHIRE was one of the 10 districts selected for inclusion in the Asian Mother and Baby Campaign, a campaign undertaken to help overcome the problems experienced by Asian women during pregnancy. To achieve this aim eight linkwor kers were allocated to this district for a two year period. A local evaluation was undertaken using general practices with evidence of a higher than average perinatal risk. Linkworkers were distributed equally between the hospital and community setting. Women from the selected practices were interviewed at three points; booking for ante-natal care, following delivery and at the post-natal visit.

It was found that the linkworkers provided a much needed interpreter service but were less successful in imparting health education knowledge to Asian women. In fact improvement in health education knowledge only occurred in women with a good anderstanding of English. A surprising finding was that there is still a very large proportion (approximately 50%) of Asian women in Leicestershire who are unable to communicate in English and are not therefore able to make full use of the available services.
Trends in the Organization of Cervical Cancer Screening
Authors: Haran Dave , Eardley Anne , Elkind Andrea , Spencer Brenda , Smith Alwyn
Published: September 2007

CERVICAL CYTOLOGICAL screening has been available in the UK for several decades, but has not achieved a significant reduction in the incidence of and mortality from cervical cancer. In this paper we describe past problems of cervical screening, discuss the impact of recent innovations to computerize call and recall, and suggest further improvements for the future.
Functional Health Development Model: A Tool for Planning
Authors: Abdul Rahman Fahd Al-Swailem  , El-Shabrawy Ali M.
Published: September 2007

THIS PAPER describes a functional model (gross style) taking available information about the health sector e.g. indicators of health status, types of service utilization, source allocations and placing these quantities into a systematic framework as a tool for planning for health services in a developing area.

The major advantages of functional models over trial-and-error for planning have been presented. The functional model described could contribute to the sorting out of desirable from less desirable policy alternatives for a specific population. The output from the model is useful for matching resources to program development, taking into consideration costs and effectiveness.
Trauma Patients in an Indian Hospital
Authors: Dhingra Neeraj , Yunus Mhod. , Sinha S.N. , Zaheer Mohd. , Khan Aziz
Published: September 2007

THE STUDY was carried out at the Emergency Department of Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College Hospital, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India, to ascertain the pattern of trauma in the patients. A total of 2446 trauma cases were recorded in the year 1987. Accidental falls were the commonest cause of injury, i.e 35.7%, followed by motor-vehicle collisions (23.5%), pedal cyclists (8%), occupational injuries (5.2%) and sports injuries (5.2%). The com monest age group involved was 5-15 years which accounted for 32.8% of all trauma. Fractures (44%) were the most frequently observed nature of injury. Death due to trauma was highest in motor-vehicle collisions (31%) followed by accidental falls (16%), and occupational injuries (12%).
Imported Malaria in Italy from 1986 to 1988
Authors: Majori G. , Sabatinelli G. , Casaglia O. , Cavallini C. , Monzali C.
Published: September 2007

THE TREND of imported malaria cases in Italy from 1960 to 1988 is discussed. Comparative analysis of malaria incidence in the last three years is also presented. Since 1985, a rapid increase was recorded with 191 cases in a 1986, 287 in 1987 and 350 in 1988. In 1986-1988 Plasmodium falciparum was responsible for 74% cases of the total number, followed by P. vivax (21%), P. malariae (2.2%) and P. ovale (1%). 86% of the imported cases was acquired in African countries, 8% in Asia and 3% in South America. As far as travellers categories are concerned, workers represented 46% of the total population, tourists 37%, seamen and aircrew 2% and strangers coming from endemic malaria areas and travelling to Italy 16%. In 1986, 1987 and 1988 three, four and two deaths respectively, due to malaria, were reported.
Obesity in Black Women in Soweto, South Africa: Minimal Effects on Hypertension, Hyperlipidaemia and Hyperglycaemia
Authors: Walker A.R.P. , Walker B.F. , Manetsi B. , Tsotetsi N.G. , Walker A.J.
Published: September 2007

STUDIES were made on 50 South African urban black obese women aged 25-40 years, with Body Mass Index (BMI) (Kg/m2) of 29.5 or more, and on 50 non-obese women with BMI of 25 or less. In the two groups, mean triceps skinfolds were 25.5mm and 17.8mm, respectively. Hypertension (≥160/95mm Hg) was present in 6 and 4 women (12% and 8%), hypercholesterolaemia (≥5.2mmol/l) in 5 and 3 women (10% and 6%), hypertriglyceridaemia (≥1.8mmol/l) in 5 and 3 (10% and 6%), and hyperglycaemia (≥7.8mmol/l) in 2 and 1 women (4% and 2%). One or more adverse sequelae were present in 11 (22%) obese and in 9 (18%) of non-obese women, proportions not significantly different. Dietarily, mean daily intakes were — Kcals 2273 and 2240, protein 73g and 70g (12.9% and 12.5% energy), fat 65g and 67g (25.7% and 26.9% energy), carbohydrate 349g and 330g (61.4% and 60.5% energy), and dietary fibre, 12g and 13g. In this low socioeconomic and low fat dietary context, obesity in the black women studied was not specifically evocative of deleterious sequelae of obesity.
Vitamin Use and Beliefs Among Students at a Malaysian University
Authors: Mazlan Bin Yong
Published: September 2007

QUESTIONNAIRE was administered in class to a sample of physical education students at a Malaysian University in order to determine their beliefs and use patterns regarding vitamin supplemen tation.

About a quarter of the subjects (24.6%) had practised vitamin supplementation for the past two years prior to the study, 14.9% of them being females as opposed to only 9.7% males. The most frequently used vitamin supplements, in rank order, were multivi tamins (used by 57.6%), vitamin C (24.2%), the B-Complex vitamins (9.1%), and vitamin E (6.1%).

Among vitamin supplementeers, the most frequently cited reasons for using vitamin supplements, in rank order, were 'to supplement the daily diet' (33.3%), 'to prevent colds' (27.3%), and 'to prevent fatigue or lethargy' (21.2%). Among non-supplementeers, the three reasons most frequently mentioned for not using vitamin supplements were 'vitamin needs are ade quately supplied by daily meals' (50.5%), 'I am healthy enough and therefore I do not need extra vitamins' (27.2%), and 'fear of insidious side effects' (9.9%).

In general, both supplementeers and non-supple menteers tended to beheve in the purported health benefits of vitamin supplementation. However, on the whole, supplementeers were willing to change their supplementation habits.
Undiagnosed Tuberculosis in Hospitalized Patients- An Autopsy Survey
Authors: Lee J.K.M.
Published: September 2007

TUBERCULOSIS (TB) causes unnecessary deaths because of failure to diagnose and treat what is today a curable disease. A retrospective study was carried out in a general hospital to assess the magnitude of undiagnosed tuberculosis in hospitalized patients. Sixty-three cases of active tuberculosis, 39 of which were diagnosed only at autopsy, were found among 1306 autopsy cases during a three year study period. The reasons for the failure of diagnosis are discussed. For a correct diagnosis, the post-mortem examination must be systematic and include bacteriolo gical and histological studies.
The Effect of Consanguinity on Pregnancy Outcome in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Wong Simin S. , Anokute Charles C.
Published: September 2007

SIMPLE random sample of 4498 Saudi pregnant women was analysed to study the effect of consanguinity on pregnancy outcome. The rate of consanguinity was found to be 54.3% which com prised 31.4% of first cousins and 22.9% of other relatives. The average proportion of outcome was higher and over 50% within the consanguinous mar riages in all pregnancy outcome except prematurity and low birth weights.

In general, more unfavourable outcomes occurred among consanguinous than non-consanguinous mar riages. Perinatal, infant and neonatal deaths were the most deleterious outcomes among related marriages with 62%, 60.3% and 57.9% respectively. The differ ences between total consanguinity and unrelated mar riages in the infant and perinatal death categories were significant (P=0.05).
Medical Treatment for Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Bird H.A.
Published: September 2007

REST, PHYSIOTHERAPY, joint protection, patient education and counselling all play an important role alongside drug therapy and sur gery in the management of a chronic disorder such as theumatoid arthritis. Patients expect their physician to take the initiative in integrating the members of the multi-disciplinary team devoted to their care.

The physician will also instigate drug therapy. In early disease, an analgesic ('for pain') may supplement a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ('for stiffness'). A variety of such drugs are available with various advantages and disadvantages.

For more severe, progressive disease a 'second-line' or disease-modifying drug may be prescribed. Typical examples are injectable gold, penicillamine, anti malarials, sulphasalazine and methotrexate. The pres cription of any of these represents a calculated risk: the benefits of treatment have to be balanced against the likely side-effects.

A variety of intra-articular treatments are also available for providing some localisation of response and sometimes obviating the need for surgery which should be the subject of close collaboration between the rheumatologists and orthopaedic surgeons.
Child Feeding by Nigerian Mothers during Acute Diarrhoeal Illness
Authors: Ekanem E.E.
Published: September 2007

A STUDY was conducted among mothers in a suburban community in Lagos to ascertain child feeding patterns during episodes of diarrhoea. Two hundred women with children of 6 to 36 months were selected randomly from 672 who were partici pating in a diarrhoea surveillance study. The vast majority restricted the consumption of yams and sugar (>90%) and substantial numbers (40/50%) restricted bread and rice. On the other hand other carbohydrate foods were increased — plantain (73%) ogi-maize pap (53%) amala (56%). Of the protein foods the vast majority restricted beans (94%) and milk formula (69%) with 35% restricting meat but not fish. Few increased the intake of such foods. Beverages, fruit and vegetables were restricted by the majority; water intake was maintained. These dietary restrictions are appar ently based on tradition but can have serious conse quences.
Swimming and Ear Infection
Authors: Robson Lane M. , Leung Alexander K. C.
Published: September 2007

SURFACE SWIMMING in fresh or ocean water is not contraindicated in children with otitis media or in children with tympanostomy tubes. Diving should be prohibited in children with acute or chronic otitis media or in children with tympanostomy tubes. Hot tub water, bath water, chlorinated water, or water from stagnant ponds may pose a risk for either otitis media or otitis externa.
Alternative Therapy for Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Bird H.A.
Published: September 2007

THE wide variety of alternative therapies available for rheumatic diseases attests to the inability of the medical profession to provide patients with adequate cures. Many patients resort to alternative remedies even if these are not always declared to the physician.

Our own studies have included assessments of injectable enzyme preparations, vitamins and the use of healing in conjunction with the Confederation of Healing Organisations. Other well controlled trials have been made of diet, nutritional supplements and natural remedies such as green lipped muscle prepar ations.

Unfortunately, the controlled scientific evidence of efficacy is often eclipsed by extravagant advertising claims for subjective enthusiasm of patients who suffer from a variety of conditions, many of which undergo a natural cyclical variation in severity. The clinical assessments used in such trials require critical appraisal.
Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy
Authors: Matthews Danny
Published: September 2007

TWO YEARS after the introduction of a slaughter policy for BSE, the author summarizes the development of the epidemic and introduction of Government controls. In conclusion, the risk to humans is discussed.
The Role of Sex Education in Adolescent Pregnancy
Authors: Edet Emmanuel E.
Published: September 2007

THE AIM of the present Review is to throw some light on the sexual education of young people in the hope that it would provide a panacea for adolescent pregnancy. The source of knowledge, family or school, is not the issue, but information presumably will foster an enlightened mind and perhaps even enlightened behaviour.

The availability, or lack of availability, of sex education, contraception and abortion services appears worthy of special consideration. It is often assumed that adolescents, and especially low socio-economic adoles cents, begin their pregnancies at young ages because of indifference, or cultural pattern. Too little attention has been paid to the provision of adequate sex education and birth control services, especially in developing countries.
Phenothrin Lotion, the Latest Recruit in the Battle Against Headlice: The Results of Two Controlled Comparative Studies
Authors: Doss S. , Powell C.A. , Miller A.J.
Published: September 2007

ONE HUNDRED and one subjects with head louse infestation were entered into two separate studies, in which a phenothrin aqueous/alcoholic lotion was compared to a carbaryl lotion and a malathion lotion.

Fifty subjects were treated with a single application of the phenothrin lotion, 28 with the carbaryl lotion and 23 with the malathion lotion.

In the comparative study of the phenothrin and malathion lotions an inspection on the day following treatment showed no live lice remained, but that six of the subjects treated with malathion lotion still had evidence of viable eggs (p<0.05). In one subject viable eggs were still evident at two weeks post-treatment. There were no cases, however, of live lice or viable eggs at four weeks post-treatment. Mild cutaneous side-effects were reported in five subjects, the inci dence of which was not significantly different by treatment group.

One subject in the phenothrin and carbaryl lotion comparative study had evidence of live lice at one week post-treatment with phenothrin lotion. This subject received no further treatment and was clear of both live lice and viable eggs at subsequent visits.

A separate case of live lice infestation was found at two weeks post-treatment in a subject treated with phenothrin lotion and at four weeks post-treatment in two subjects treated with carbaryl lotion.

As these subjects were free of live lice infestation at previous follow-up visits it was highly probable that these were cases of re-infestation from another source.

Two subjects treated with carbaryl lotion, one of whom also had evidence of live lice, had viable eggs at four weeks, again probably due to re-infestation.

A significantly greater incidence of side-effects (p<0.05) was found in the carbaryl lotion treatment group, which were again of a mild cutaneous nature.

These studies demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this phenothrin lotion and suggest that it would be a useful and acceptable addition to the currently avail able range of insecticidal preparations.
Public Health Aspects of a Refugee Camp
Authors: Dyke Tim
Published: September 2007

THE explosion in the number of refugees through out the world has led to the development of a new medical speciality; Migration Medicine. Such a speciality has a strong public health dimension. Addressing the public health needs of refugees especially in developing countries is one of the few challenges of practising public medicine which gives measurable results in weeks rather than years.

Whilst I was a trainee in Public Health Medicine in Glasgow, UK, I was seconded to Medecins Sans Frontières ('doctors without borders') to act as Medical Co-ordinator of a relief operation for refugees from Sudan. This paper discusses some of the lessons that the experience taught me which have application to many refugee situations throughout the world.
Oxygen Free Radicals and Human Diseases
Authors: Aruoma Okezie I. , Kaur Harparkash , Halliwell Barry
Published: September 2007

FREE RADICALS and other reactive oxygen species are constantly formed in the human body. Many of them serve useful physiological func tions, but they can be toxic when generated in excess and this toxicity is often aggravated by the presence of ions of such transition metals as iron or copper. Excess generation of reactive oxygen species within tissues can damage DNA, lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. Which of these is the most important target of damage depends upon the cell type subjected to the oxidative stress and upon how it is imposed.
Study of the Regular Diet of Selected Hospitals of the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia: Edible Plate Waste and Its Monetary Value
Authors: Al-shoshan Ahmed A.
Published: September 2007

As part ofa multi-purpose study, the monetary value of edible plate waste was estimated in 18 large capacity Ministry of Health (MOH) general hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Direct measurement of the plate waste was carried out over 2-days, in which 6 consecutive regular diets were served to 554 Saudi patients (male 268 and female 286) and their 205 attendants (male 12 and female 193). It was estimated that the average plate waste represented approximately 40% of the meal cost/ participant/day, and the estimated annual monetary loss for the 5.625 million regular meals to be served to patients and attendants will be around 35 million Saudi Riyals.
Symptoms and Beliefs
Authors: Sims A.C.P.
Published: September 2007

Religious belief and psychiatric symptoms are distinct and separate phenomena. They occur in different realms of experience. However, they may occur individually or together and it may be difficult to decide which is which. When a person describes his own experience as religious and another observes this as mental illness they are unlikely to be commenting on precisely the same phenomena. The first person is describing an internal experience whilst the latter is inferring from observed behaviour. It is important for psychiatrists and mental health professionals to recognize that there is a spiritual dimension for their patients (and for themselves), and for pastoral theologians to form a concept of mental illness. The approach of phenomenological psychopathology is useful in making the distinction.
Nutrient Intakes of University Women in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Shawi Alia N.
Published: September 2007

This study assessed the nutrient intakes of 203 female college students, aged 20-31 years, mean 21 years. Results from computer analysis of 3-day food records showed that, on the basis of group means, two thirds of Recommmended Daily Allowance (RDAs) was met for all nutrients except iron, zinc, folacin and vitamin D. Nutrient intake and RDAs showed no significant differences related to marital status with the exception of vitamin D and manganese (p < 0.05). The indexes of Nutritional Quality indicated that, on average, diets of the students met or exceeded nutrient density allowance for protein, vitamin A, vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6 and phosphorus.

Nutrients for which the average female student consumption was below recommended standards on a calorie basis, were carbohydrates, fat, vitamin D, folacin, calcium, iron, zinc and sodium. The diets were limited in fibre, high in sugar, high in caffeine and slightly above recommendations in cholesterol.

Female college students needed guidance in selecting nutrient dense foods. Attention in nutrition education programmes should be directed toward the individual student rather than the group.
Some Medical Problems Affecting the Ethnic Minorities of the UK
Authors: Cook G.C.
Published: September 2007

As a result of numerous influences, some genetic and others environmental, disease patterns in many of the minor ethnic groups are often at variance with those affecting the long established indigenes of the United Kingdom. Also, several important infective conditions can be acquired during brief visits to the land of their birth, or of their ancestors. As integration into the life-style of the UK becomes increasingly established, several diseases of the 'westernised' or 'industrialised' nations are assuming a major importance in these groups. The last few decades have witnessed the arrival of so many diverse groups from nearly all parts of the world that an intimate and in-depth knowledge of these disease patterns is now essential to the pursuance of competent medical practice in the UK.
Road Traffic Injuries in Al-Ain City, United Arab Emirates
Authors: Bener A. , Absood G.H. , Achan N.V. , Sankaran-Kutty M.
Published: September 2007

Road traffic injuries are the second major cause of death in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

A retrospective study for a 1 year period of all road traffic accidents and injuries was conducted in Jimi Hospital for the period 1 January to 31 December, 1990. A total of 1197 injuries were encountered at the Hospital Emergency Department. The majority of victims were males and under the age of 35 years. During the Ramadan (fasting month), the number of persons who were injured by traffic accidents was slightly higher than during other months. Excessive speed was closely related to traffic accidents and injuries. Most of the accidents and inj uries occurred from 8.00 am to 2.00 pm. Head injury was the most frequently noted type of injury (40.5%), followed by limbs injury (22.1 %) and chest, abdomen and pelvic injuries (14.7%). These findings suggest that there is a need to take a comprehensive approach on both excessive speed and driving habits.
The Effect of Selected Health Education Schemes on Knowledge and Attitude of the Kanuri Towards Certain Parasitic Diseases
Authors: Akogun Oladele B.
Published: September 2007

The effect of 3 types of intervention schemes on the scientific knowledge and attitude of Kanuri towards malaria, diarrhoea and dysentery and intestinal worms was assessed using the Likert scale response type statements. 1383 respondents in our identical Kanuri villages were used in the study. The effect of still pictures and card games (Goramari), drama songs, storytelling and discussions (Yerimari) and a combination of both (Shetimari) on knowledge and attitude was tested. Gotimari was used as the control. Quarterly assessment of changes in knowledge and attitude showed that Goramari was the least effective while Yerimari and Shetimari were the most effective. Women were more influenced than men by health education schemes which involve drama songs and stories while card games and still pictures had very little effect on them (women). The implication of these findings on disease management through health education is discussed.
Zimbabwe's Success Story in Education and Health: Will it Weather Economic Structural Adjustment?
Authors: Tumwine James K.
Published: September 2007

The beginning of the 1980s saw the birth of Zimbabwe as a result of a protracted liberation war. It coincided with global interest in primary health care, the concept of universal primary school education and, unfortunately, moves towards economic stabilisation and structural adjustment programmes. Economic structural adjustment was adopted by several sub Saharan African countries with dire consequences for the poor and vulrierable.

Zimbabwe's commitment to social justice and to equitable distribution of resources demonstrated a practical move away from the culture of rhetoric so characteristic ofmany governments and non-governmental organisations and agencies. This commitment has been translated into impressive improvements in health and education. Current evidence shows that education has had a positive impact on health and related areas like contraceptive use, child mortality and the nutrition status of children. Conversely nutrition and health conditions among school children are important determinants of educational outcomes.

Hitherto Zimbabwe's economy has been sufficiently strong to avoid excessive dependence on the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other foreign financial institutions. Unfortunately, however, the current economic recession together with economic structural adjustment programmes are beginning to have a negative impact on health and education. Will true synergism between health and education weather these structural problems? It seems that the people and government of Zimbabwe have the capacity and resolve to weather such a storm.
Awareness, Knowledge and Perceptions of Restaurateurs About Proposed Smoking Restrictions in Johannesburg Restaurants
Authors: Ross M.H. , De Beer M. , Algu K.
Published: September 2007

3 5 Johannesburg restaurateurs in randomly selected restaurants were interviewed by telephone to assess their awareness, knowledge and attitudes to proposed smoking restrictions in restaurants. The response rate was 78% . The 89% awareness ofproposed legislation was gained mainly from newspapers but only 29% of these respondents knew the correct details. The majority of respondents believed that there should be separate areas for smokers and non-smokers. However, 64% of respondents anticipated that their business would be affected and 55 % anticipated implementation problems. The real and unfounded problems recorded from this essential informant group contributed to the amendment of the legislation and the development of educational material for Johannesburg restaurateurs.