bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Employment Module for the Tourism Satellite Account of the OECD
Authors: Heerschap N.M.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes the importance of the employment or human resource issue for the ‘tourism industry’. From a statistical point of view the data presented in this area are fragmented, immature and often lacking in quality. Data on tourism-related employment therefore lack credibility. Levels of tourism-related employment are derived largely from a demand-side approach. Such an approach, however, cannot assess the composition or structure of the employment generated by tourism. Thus a supply-side approach is always needed, but it is not easy from the supply-side to demarcate the ‘tourism industry’ properly, nor to take into account factors such as indirect employment. This paper proposes the use of both approaches simultaneously by connecting basic employment data from the supply-side to the data of the tourism satellite account (TSA) through an employment module as the integration framework. This provides not only a connection between supply and demand, but also an essential central framework for definitions and classifications. Furthermore, this approach offers a means of connecting employment data with other aspects of the economic process as well as other extensions of the TSA, such as types and numbers of visitors and characteristics of industries. This proposal follows the ideas of a Social Accounting Matrix, described in the System of National Accounts, 1993. After outlining the methodology, the author presents his main conclusions and recommendations.
Regional and Inter-Regional Economic Impacts of Tourism Consumption: Methodology and the Case of Italy
Authors: Manente Mara
Published: July 2017

This paper implements a multiregional-multisectoral input-output model à la Chenery-Moses for the analysis of the economic role of the travel and tourism industry, in order to describe the consumption habits of tourists coming from different origins and choosing different types of holiday, and to evaluate the sectoral and regional impacts of any kind of demand and of production. The effects which localized expenditure (total and by item) can generate in each regional economic system are discussed, and an analysis is then presented of the economic role of tourism by macro-area with estimations of the ‘centralizing’ and ‘leakage’ effects.
The Measurement of Seasonality and its Economic Impacts
Authors: Bar-On Raphael Raymond
Published: July 2017

Seasonality is significant in most travel and tourism series. The economic benefits of tourism are reduced by the building of accommodation and facilities that are used only part of the year, or have low annual usage, and by seasonal unemployment. Monthly occupation peaks and troughs in 1998 are presented for 16 countries, as well as seasonal patterns of tourism by air to Israel by principal origin and of inbound and domestic hotel demand — the paper gives the national totals and the figures for Eilat (including revenue per night — inbound and domestic and employment) and for five other destinations, using the X-11 ARIMA/88 program. The Maximal Utilization constrained by Seasonality (MUS) and the Seasonal Underutilization Factor (SUF) are presented.
Open Study of Reservoir and Matrix Patches in a Tropical Environment
Authors: Bhathena RK , Anklesaria BS , Ganatra AM , Pinto Rosaline
Published: July 2017

Objective

To determine the influence of temperature and humidity on skin reactions with continuous transdermal oestrogen therapy.

Design

Two prospective studies, each of 6 months’ duration. Setting Two centres in Western India. Range of temperature 20–38°C; humidity 55–90 per cent.

Population

62 healthy menopausal women.

Main outcome measures

61 women using a 50ug reservoir patch were assessed over 6 months about tolerability and skin reactions. In 26 women who had repeated complete detachment of, or significant skin reactions with the reservoir patch, a further study of 6 months’ duration was undertaken with a 50ug matrix patch.

Results

64 per cent completed the first study and were happy to continue with the reservoir patch, while 36 per cent discontinued prematurely because of adverse effects. Ten per cent had problems of adhesion. Mild skin reactions occurred in 21 per cent, and moderate or severe in 38 per cent. The premature discontinuation rate because of problems of adhesion and skin reactions was 23 per cent, which was significantly higher than such rates in 4 other comparable studies conducted in temperature zones. However, the variations in temperature and humidity in Western India did not significantly influence the premature discontinuation rate as a consequence of skin reactions (Chi-Square test, P = 0.4, and P = 1.0, respectively). From the 26 women subsequently using the matrix patch, none complained of the patch falling off, although 4 per cent had partial detachment. None complained of moderate or severe skin reactions. Twelve per cent had mild itching.

Conclusions

Because of frequent and severe skin irritation, transdermal therapy with the reservoir patch is not accepted favourably by some women in hot, humid climates. In contrast, because of the superior adhesive properties and minimal mild skin reactions, women in Western India are found to readily accept therapy with the matrix patch.
Medical Problem or Natural Transition: Women's Accounts of Menopause
Authors: Hunter Myra
Published: July 2017

The menopause is commonly described as a natural development phase of life, yet, biomedical language dominates media and scientific writing on the subject. This paper reports on the results of a qualitative study of women's own views and experiences of the menopause. Thirty seven peri or post menopausal women took part in semi-structured interviews. Medical language was used initially when they defined themselves in relation to the menopause, but less so when they spoke about its impact upon themselves and their lives. In general, they described the menopause as having little overall impact and the majority saw the cessation of menstruation as a relief. Reproductive decisions tended to have been made earlier in their lives. However, they also faced an additional task during the menopause in terms of dealing with negative social stereotypes of the menopause and aging, which in some cases lead to anxiety and lower self esteem.
Options for the Management of Dementia in Primary Care
Authors: Adams Ruth
Published: July 2017

Alzheimer's disease is a devastating condition. One in ten of us can expect to develop dementia in retirement. It is more common in women, and carers of sufferers are more often female, either spouses or daughters. The principles of management centre around early diagnosis, based upon an accurate clinical history and investigation to exclude other possible causes or exacerbating factors, and ongoing monitoring, support and advice as the condition progresses. The dementia sufferer interacts with the physical and social environment and her behaviour needs to be considered in this context. Drug therapy plays a part in improving symptoms; there are specific drugs available but their efficacy is still unproven. The carers of sufferers are often under considerable strain and their needs must be considered in planning services. Although Alzheimer's disease is a deteriorating condition, it should not lead to therapeutic nihilism. There is a great deal that can be done to alleviate suffering, both for the patient and the carer, and in providing this the rewards can be great.
Arthritis at the Menopause
Authors: Harvie John P , Reid David M
Published: July 2017

Joint pains are often attributed to the menopause and can be of varied aetiologies. This review discusses menopausal “arthritis”, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, connective tissue disease, fibromyalgia, gout, carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoporosis. Presentation, treatment and use of hormone replacement therapy are described.
Anorectal Function in the Postmenopausal Woman
Authors: Thakar Ranee , Sultan Abdul H
Published: July 2017

Anorectal problems are more common in the postmenopausal woman. This appears to be due largely to loss of collagen tissue integrity. This review describes anorectal pathophysiology and the effects of ageing. The two principal conditions in the menopause are faecal incontinence and constipation. The contributory factors prolapse, hysterectomy, anorectal surgery, sexual abuse, diabetes mellitus, colon or rectal cancer, multiple sclerosis and rectal prolapse are discussed.
A Computer Based System for Gynecological Cytology
Authors: Stenkvist B. , Danielsson J. , Pettersson G.
Published: July 2017

A computer system is described for cytological report and registration routines in gynecological practice. The sociomedical advantages of the integration of such a computer system with a previously described computer system for organized gynecological health control are pointed out.
Screening—an Efficient Tool in Outpatient Endocrine Care Studies of the Diagnostic Process
Authors: Allander Erik , Rosenqvist Urban
Published: July 2017

A screening procedure based on physical examination alone was used in the outpatient unit of a department of endocrinology and metabolism. The effectiveness, efficiency, and volume of this diagnostic process were evaluated by a study of the case records and a mail questionnaire. In 1968, 296 subjects were examined by this screening procedure; 103 of these could immediately be referred back. The percentage of confident endocrine diagnoses increased from 31 to 39%. The corresponding figure for the group of subjects immediately referred back was 100%. A considerable change in the diagnoses was also recorded. The use of the screening procedure saved approximately $30000. It is concluded that diagnostic screening by an experienced endocrinologist is inexpensive, efficient and safe. The use of the screening procedure made it possible to offer highly specialized medical treatment to more people.
Organization of a Breast Tumour Clinic and Aspects of Data Analysis of a Clinical Material
Authors: Johansson H. , Rimsten Å. , Stenkvist B. , Danielsson J.
Published: July 2017

With the aim of making it easier for patients with tumours or suspected tumours of the breast to obtain adequate medical advice and treatment, a special breast tumour clinic was established at the Department of Surgery of the University Hospital in Uppsala for women resident in the county of Uppsala. The waiting time was less than one week. In addition to palpation, fine-needle biopsy with cytological examination, mammography and xeroradiography were performed. Close co-operation between a few doctors responsible for the various diagnostic units made it possible to give the patients quick service and contributed to an efficient use of the diagnostic resources. The clinic functioned mainly within the framework of the existing medical care facilities and did not act as a screening project.

Over a period of 15 months, 1244 women were examined. 116 had breast cancer, and 5 of these tumours were occult. A comparatively low mean tumour size and a low frequency of lymph node metastases would seem to indicate that the patients came under medical care at a relatively early stage.

For recording of the case histories and examination findings, special medical records permitting data processing were used. This has facilitated follow-up of the patients, special checks on certain patient groups, statistical analyses and prospective investigations.

We consider that, for the patient, a clinic of this kind offers considerable psychological and financial benefits, and that for the health service as a whole it means increased efficiency and a lower cost per patient. It seems probable that both the patient's and the doctor's delay are reduced.
Do You Die from Rheumatism?
Authors: Allander Erik
Published: July 2017

Do you die from rheumatism? The five-year mortality in a middle-aged population sample with respect to reported joint symptoms. Allander, E. (Department of Social Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden).

With special reference to reported joint symptoms, the five-year mortality was studied of a population sample of 3 394 persons, 56–60 years old in 1965. An age-and sex-matched comparison was made between the mortality of the total population of the same age-group, and the sample investigated. A significant excess mortality was found for males reporting previous hospital admission for “rheumatoid arthritis”. In this group, however, only 28% really had rheumatoid arthritis according to generally used criteria. The other diseases were mainly previous rheumatic fever and degenerative joint disease. It is concluded that males are harder hit by degenerative joint disease than females. The sample investigated had a lower mortality than the population from which it was sampled. The comparability of a fixed sample and a mean population found in official statistics is discussed. The non-response group was estimated to have a considerable excess mortality.
Results of a Quit-smoking Research Project in a Randomly Selected Population
Authors: Isacsson Sven-Olof , Janzon Lars
Published: July 2017

Results of a quit-smoking research project in a randomly selected population. Isacsson, S.-O. and Janzon, L. (Departments of Clinical Physiology, Social and Preventive Medicine, and Surgery, Allmänna Sjukhuset, S-21401 Malmö, Sweden).

In the spring of 1973, 58 strictly randomized heavy smokers from a defined population of men born in 1914 were asked to quit smoking, at least for 8–9 weeks, as a part of a research project focused upon the relationship between smoking and peripheral blood flow, fibrinolysis, and lung function. Eighty-eight per cent of the smokers were willing to try to quit smoking. Seven (12%) refused at the outset, as they regarded quitting as impossible. Of the remaining 51 it was possible to keep 31 (60%) free from smoking for 8–9 weeks with the aid of an intense anti-smoking program lasting 6 weeks. Checks of continued smoking abstention were made by questionnaire and COHb-determination. After 6 weeks, no further information was given to the subjects. A follow-up after 8–9 months revealed that 33% of the 51 participants (i.e. 29% of the original 58) were still non-smokers.

The long-lasting effect of our quit-smoking method was equal to the best reported by others and 30% is probably the highest rate of long-term success to be achieved in smoking cessation.
The Layman's Medical Vocabulary
Authors: Allander Erik , Håkanson Eva
Published: July 2017

The layman's medical vocabulary. A study of illness definitions and perceived need for medical care. Allander, E. and Håkanson, E. (Dept. of Social Medicine, Huddinge University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, and Institute of Linguistics, University of Stockholm, Sweden).

A knowledge of the layman's illness concepts is of value both for diagnosis and therapy in the practical application of the medical services. It is also valuable for the estimation of morbidity and of the need for medical assistance.

The present article describes an investigation intended to throw light on the import of ten different illness concepts and on the implications these may have for the utilization of the medical services. The study is based on interviews with 100 middle-aged women.

Most of the respondents considered that an illness may have many causes—a multifactorial aetiology. Great differences between the illnesses were noted with respect to the opinions as to whether examination by a doctor was necessary for diagnosis. The interpretations as to whether an illness needed treatment—medical attention, medicine, hospital care—seemed however to be more closely related to its duration than to its nature. A long duration was regarded by a surprisingly large number as a sign that hospitalization was required—even in the case of a common cold!

Only 8% considered obesity ‘serious’. As regards the choice of illness alternatives, earlier experience of illness influenced this only in the case of ‘shortness of breath’ and ‘nervous symptoms’. Social class was not found to affect the type of answer.
Sexual Problems in Patients Suffering from Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Lilius H. G. , Valtonen Erkki J. , Wikström Juhani
Published: July 2017

Sexual problems in patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. Lilius, H. G., Valtonen, E. J. and Wikström, J. (Departments of Physical Medicine and Neurology, University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland).

A questionnaire which allowed anonymous answering and which also included many other questions besides those dealing with sexual life was sent to 302 patients suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS). Sexual life had changed for 91% of males and 72% of females. About half of the patients replied that their sexual life was unsatisfactory or had ceased altogether. These patients were as a rule in a relative poor physical condition. In males, disturbances in erection (62%) were the most common problem, erection was normal in only 20%. In females the essential figures were: loss of orgasm in 33%, loss of libido in 27% and spasticity in 12%. There was no correlation between the incidence of sexual disturbances and the duration of the MS. It seems that the neurological disturbances in sexual life depend simply on the location of the plaques in the central nervous system.
On Risk Factors for Premature Myocardial Infarction in Middle-aged Building Construction Workers
Authors: Theorell Töres , Askergren Alf , Olsson Alice , Åkerstedt Torbjörn
Published: July 2017

On risk factors for premature myocardial infarction in middle-aged building construction workers. A comparison with other selected illnesses. Theorell, T., Askergren, A., Olsson, A., and Åkerstedt, T. (Dept. of Medicine, Serafimerlasarettet, Foundation for Industrial Safety and Health in the Construction Industry, and the Laboratory for Clinical Stress Research, Stockholm, Sweden).

This study was carried out in order to define readily available indicators of elevated risk of imminent myocardial infarction in middle-aged building construction workers in Stockholm and also provided an opportunity for comparing the risk of myocardial infarction with that of gastric or duodenal ulcer and “social illness”.

Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that the risk of myocardial infarction was associated with relative overweight, short stature, elevated blood pressure and elevated psychosocial discord index, whereas excessive cigarette smoking was associated with a risk of myocardial infarction in the univariate analysis only. Excessive cigarette smoking was associated with ulcer and “social illness”. Elevated blood pressure was associated with risk of ulcer and elevated heart rate with risk of “social illness”.

The target population consisted of all male 41–61-year-old members of the union of building-construction workers in Greater Stockholm ( n=8973). They were all asked to fill out a psychosocial questionnaire from which a “discord index” was calculated. Non-responders (25%) were comparable to responders with regard to a number of crude social characteristics. In order to establish somatic characteristics for the participants, the investigators utilized a standardized health check-up ( Bygghälsan—building workers' health scheme) in which 55% of the participants had taken part.

Official registers were utilized during the follow-up (12–27 months) in order to find instances of (1) myocardial infarction (2) gastric or duodenal ulcer, and (3) prolonged neurosis or non-illness death (“social illness”). Subjects who had been absent from work because of similar illness during the preceding year were excluded from the followup. Three roughly equal-sized diagnostic groups ( n = 22–26) were formed. They were compared with a contrast group ( n = 194) which was selected from the population in a representative way.
On Pensioners' Circumstances in a Large Swedish City
Authors: Bolin Anders , Lindström Bengt , Sagnér Alf , Svanström Leif
Published: July 2017

On pensioners' circumstances in a large Swedish city. A report from Malmö, Bolin, A., Lindström, B., Sagnér, A. and Svanström, L. (Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Lund, and the Social Board of Malmö, Sweden).

In 1972–1973 the authors carried out a field-work programme in a surburban area covered by the 4th Welfare District of Malmö with the objective of charting the general circumstances among the pensioners living there. Such surveys should be pursued in such a way that immediate needs would be disclosed and met. The findings were intended to form a basis for future improvement projects. As expected, the results show the necessity of tracking down hidden needs, often underestimated by the pensioners themselves, especially those in poor health and of limited means. Within the framework of a permanent field-work programme, those people must be made more aware of their own interests and rights.
Retirement and Psychic Investments
Authors: Niemi Timo , Sarna Seppo , Kovalainen Seppo
Published: July 2017

Retirement and psychic investments. Niemi, T., Sarna, S. and Kovalainen, S. (From the Psychiatric Clinic of Helsinki University Central Hospital and the Department of the Public Health Sciences of Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland

An attempt has been made to investigate the effect of retirement on the amount of psychic investment in the different sections of the social field. A further investigation was made on the application of the disengagement theory and the theory of role flexibility to the present material. The results do not support either of the theories. The material consisted of 28 pensioners, who were sent 3 questionnaires: on retirement, and 3 months and 1 year later. In processing the material, factor analysis and group analysis were primarily employed. In the group analysis, the observation units (84) (each answer from each subject) were divided into three groups. The present results showed a considerable degree of stability in the subjects, irrespective of their retirement; 82% had remained in the same group for all three questionnaires.
What Middle-aged Men Know of Their Parents' Cause of Death and Age at Death
Authors: Waern Urban , Hedstrand Hans , Åberg Hans
Published: July 2017

What middle-aged men know of their parents' cause of death and age at death. A comparison between history and death certificate. Waern, U., Hedstrand, H. and Åberg, H. (Dept. of Medicine, University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden).

Middle-aged men's knowledge of the circumstances of their parents' diseases and death is reliable to such an extent that it can be used when appropriate for therapeutic purposes in familial diseases. This conclusion is based on findings in a health examination survey of 441 middle-aged men in Uppsala, Sweden where the men were asked whether their parents were dead and, if so, the known cause of death and at what age they had died. The information reported was then compared with the official data kept by the authorities. In 87% of cases it was possible to perform such a comparison. The study showed good conformity of the two sources, in general.
The Effect of Religious Factors on Intoxicant Use
Authors: Parfrey P. S.
Published: July 2017

The effect of religious factors on intoxicant use. Parfrey, P. S. (Dept. of Social and Preventive Medicine, University College, Cork, Ireland).

To examine cigarette, alcohol and drug use among undergraduates in Cork a precoded questionnaire was mailed to one in seven (458) students, chosen systematically. The response rate was 97%. Religious belief and practice was significantly associated with pattern of drinking behaviour, attitude to alcohol use, marijuana, L.S.D., barbiturate or amphetamine experience and cigarette smoking. It is suggested that current uncertainty of belief in a God and infrequent attendance at religious services are more important factors in promoting alcohol use than being brought up a Roman Catholic. The nature of practices considered serious misdemeanours was significantly associated with religious belief and practice, pattern of drinking behaviour, attitude to alcohol use, marijuana, L.S.D., barbiturate or amphetamine experience and cigarette smoking. These associations allowed separation of two overlapping groups, one of which was tradition-directed and the other which swung towards a more liberal and unstructured life style.
Men with Disability Pension
Authors: Medhus Asbjörn
Published: July 2017

Men with disability pension. Medhus, A. (Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Lund, Sweden).

In 1964, temporary or permanent disability pension was granted to 2.9 per thousand of all men in Malmö aged 16 to 66 years. The figure for 1974 was 10.6 per thousand, i.e. 3.7 times as high. The 235 men who in 1964 for the first time had been granted temporary or permanent disability pension by the Regional Social Insurance Office were compared with 235 men chosen at random from the 893 who in 1974 had been granted these benefits for the first time. The relation between temporary and permanent disability pension in the 1964 material was 1: 2, and in the 1974 material, 1: 4. In the 1964 material, the average age was 54.9 years; in the latter 57.4. The main diagnoses mental disorders, diseases of the circulatory system, and diseases of the musculoskeletal system represent about 70% of the cases in each of the materials.
Childhood Accidents: Three Epidemiological Studies on the Etiology
Authors: Gustafsson Lars H.
Published: July 2017

Three studies on childhood accidents are presented. The aim was to study the importance of different factors regarding the accidents in question. The following factors have then been taken into consideration: the environmental hazard, the accident proneness, the supervision and the education. Methodologically the investigations were carried out with an epidemiological technique. One is of a descriptive nature and the other two more analytically oriented. The studies are based on two different 1-year-materials consisting of accidents among children recorded in the emergency departments of Östersund Hospital and the University Hospital in Uppsala. The results indicate that risk factors in the children's physical milieu played an important role in the occurrence of the accidents: clearly identifiable risk factors in the environment could be connected with 52% of the accidents, whereas some deficiency in supervision was noted in 20%. The investigators could identify a number of specific risk factors. Attempts were made to examine how frequency and type of childhood accidents vary with the population structure and social structure in well-defined housing areas, but the results were hard to evaluate because of methodological problems. The results are presented against the background of a detailed discussion on central methodological problems in epidemiological accident research. It is pointed out in particular that epidemiological methods have clear limitations in attempts at studying the low-frequency events that each individual type of accident in fact comprises. It is of great importance that in future research, side by side with the traditional epidemiological methods, other techniques are tested with the aim of obtaining maximal usable information from a detailed study of individual accidents and their backgrounds.
Maladjusted Children and the School Health Services: Development of a Screening Test for Routine Use
Authors: Irgens Lorentz M. , Eikhom Siri Nome , Bjerkedal Tor
Published: July 2017

Maladjustment, with social and mental dysfunction, is one of the most prevalent health problems threatening children in many countries. A method for the early identification of maladjusted schoolchildren is described and evaluated. The method involves the completion of a questionnaire for each child by the teacher and the calculation of a test score based on a set of weighting factors assigned to each, question. The factors are determined by discriminant analysis. For a proper evaluation of the method an independent clinical assessment of maladjustment among 524 school children was performed, making calculations of specificity and sensitivity possible.
The Prevalence of Bronchial Asthma and Chronic Bronchitis in an Industrialized Community in Northern Sweden
Authors: Mikaelsson Bo , Stjernberg Nils , Wiman Lars-Gösta
Published: July 2017

The population living within a small area around a sulphite pulp factory in Northern Sweden was studied with regard to chronic obstructive lung disease. In persons in the age group 20–64 years the prevalence of bronchial asthma was found to be 3.0% for males and 3.2% for females. These figures correspond closely with previous studies in the Central and Southern Sweden. In the same age group the prevalence of chronic bronchitis was 2.8% for males and 1.0% for females, i.e. not differing much from that of other parts of Sweden. These findings, however, were far removed from the high prevalence of chronic bronchitis reported from Northern Finland, viz. 28.2% in males and 5.8% in females. The difference is probably attributable to differences in diagnostic criteria. In this study, those sulphite pulp factory workers who smoke seemed to constitute a population running a high risk of contracting chronic bronchitis.
Menopausal Age and Spontaneous Abortion in a Group of Women Working in a Swedish Steel Works
Authors: Kolmodin-Hedman Birgitta , Hedström Lars , Grönqvist Bertil
Published: July 2017

Female workers in a Swedish Steel works had a higher parity than clerical day workers. Mean menopausal age was 48±1 years in shift workers, compared with 49±1 in industrial day workers and 50±1 years in clerical day workers. Menstrual irregularity was not found to any higher degree in the industrially exposed groups. A tendency to increased frequency of spontaneous abortion among workers in the metallurgical areas was found, but can probably be explained by factors such as age and smoking habits.
The Influence of Repeated Health Examinations on Mortality in a Prospective Cohort Study, with a Comment on the Autopsy Frequence: The Study of Men Born in 1913
Authors: Tibblin Gösta , Welin Lennart , Larsson Bo , Ljungberg Inga-Lisa , Svärdsudd Kurt
Published: July 2017

In the Study of Men Born in 1913 it was possible to investigate the influence of repeated health examinations on mortality in a prospective cohort study. On January 1, 1963, 1010 men in the experimental grop and 1956 in the control group were alive. The experimental group took part in repeated examinations in 1963, 1967, 1973 and 1980. Overt diseases were treated accordingly. Newly detected hypertension was also treated. By the end of a 15-year-long observation period, the cumulative mortality in the experimental group (14.5%) was not significantly lower than that in the control group (15.7%). In the experimental group, 855 took part. The mortality was significantly higher in the non-participating group. The autopsy frequency decreased for in-hospital deaths but increased for deaths outside hospital during the study period.
Assessment of Sodium Intake by a Short Dietary Questionnaire
Authors: Pietinen P. , Tanskanen A. , Tuomilehto J.
Published: July 2017

The aim of the study was to develop a short questionnaire for classifying persons according to their use of salt in public health work. After pretesting the questionnaire it was modified to measure the saltiness of diet. It consisted of five questions concerning certain salting habits and self-rating of salt use, and the frequency of use of seven salty food items. The questionnaire was completed by 1471 persons aged 14 to 65 who also collected one 24-hour urine sample. A sum index of all the questions was formed and called the Salt Index (SI). The correlation between the 24-hour urinary sodium excretion and SI was 0.18 in men and 0.20 in women (both significant at p<0.001). Men and women were classified into three groups according to their SI: low representing the lowest quintile, high representing the highest and medium containing all the other quintiles. The mean 24-hour urinary sodium excretion was lowest in the low SI-category and highest in the high SI-category in both men and women. The subjects were further divided into light and heavy workers on the basis of their occupation. In this analysis the effect of both energy intake and the saltiness of the diet indicated by SI were clearly distinguished. Women doing light work and having a low SI had the lowest sodium excretion value, 148 mmol/day, and men doing heavy work and having a high SI had the highest, 260 mmol/day.
Arduousness of Work, Career, and Disability Pensioning of Finnish Iron Ore Miners
Authors: Kuorinka I. , Nurminen M.
Published: July 2017

The career and work arduousness of a population of retired iron ore miners and their contemporaries who continued to work were investigated to find out what aspects of work history were associated with disability pensioning. The retired group had entered the mining industry at a more advanced age than the referents. The retired miners had also started at more strenuous tasks. Later they changed to lighter tasks, but were less often promoted in their career. The risk of early retirement seems thus to be related to the essential indicators of one's progress in the mining vocation.
Use of Dental Services by Finnish Immigrants in Sweden Assessed by Questionnaire
Authors: Widström Eeva , Nilsson Bo , Martinsson Thore
Published: July 2017

The purpose of this work was to assess the dental visiting behaviour of Finnish immigrants in Sweden, and factors which determined this. The initial material consisted of a probability sample of 1332 Finnish citizens aged 20 to 59 years, resident in a Stockholm suburb. The response rate was 80%. About 23% of the respondents had never been to a dentist in Sweden. They were mostly newly immigrated and had a poor knowledge of Swedish. About 36% of the subjects visited a dentist in Sweden regularly (at least every second year), a lower rate than reported from studies on Swedish populations. Twenty-three per cent of the subjects had on some occasion been to a dentist in Finland while resident in Sweden. Difficulty in getting an appointment, indifference, fear, language difficulties and poor knowledge of the dental care system in Sweden were mentioned as reasons for not attending a dentist. Thus prevailing attitudes as well as the many other problems in connection with immigration seemed to result in dental health being given low priority by Finnish immigrants in Sweden.
A Predictor Analysis of Patients' Assessment of Outcome after Operation for Duodenal Ulcer
Authors: Aagaard J. , Amdrup E. , Aminoff C. , Sørensen F. Hanberg
Published: July 2017

During a period of one year data were obtained concerning life events, non-specific psychological symptoms, individual social history and ulcer history in consecutive cases of patients about to undergo elective surgical treatment for duodenal ulcer. At a one-year follow-up, a blind clinical evaluation was performed, and information concerning the patients' assessment of outcome was obtained. Those patients who at the one-year follow-up stated no improvement due to the operation could be predicted to some extent from postoperative complications, partly from a long ulcer history. The patients who stated that the result did not come up to their expectations were predicted from older age, and from certain symptoms, especially severe headache. It is suggested that it is relevant to apply the patients' assessment of outcome for the purpose of evaluation, supplementing the clinical assessment of the more biomedical aspects of outcome.
Long-Term Effect on Mother–Infant Behaviour of Extra Contact during the First Hour Post Partum III
Authors: de Château Peter , Wiberg Britt
Published: July 2017

The present prospective study examined, one year after delivery, the possible effects of early extra contact during the first hour following delivery. An extra skin-to-skin contact and suckling contact was allowed 22 primiparous mothers and their infants (P+ group). One control group of 20 primiparous mothers and their infants were given routine care immediately after birth (P group). During observation of a physical examination of the infant, ‘extra contact mothers’ held and touched their infants more frequently and more often talked positively to their infants than did mothers given routine care. ‘Extra contact mothers’ had returned to their professional employment outside the home to a lesser extent than had routine care mothers. A greater proportion of ‘extra contact’ infants slept in a room of their own. In the P+ group, mothers who had returned to gainful employment were also able to have their babies sleep in a room of their own—no such correspondence was found in the P group. The Gesell Developmental Schedules revealed that, in four parts out of five, infants with extra contact immediately after birth, were ahead of those in the control group. On the other hand, the Vineland Social Maturity Scale and the Cesarec Marke Personality Scheme did not reveal any major differences between the two groups. Mothers with early extra skin-to-skin contact and suckling contact breast-fed their infants on an average for 2 1/2 months longer than did routine care mothers. No other differences in feeding habits were found. The influence of extra contact was more pronounced in boy–mother than in girl–mother pairs.
Privatization of the Health Services
Authors: Brundtland Gro Harlem
Published: July 2017

Gro Harlem Brundtland, former Prime Minister and leader of the labour party of Norway and also an MD and MPH made the following remarks at a so-called Harvard Public Health Alumni Seminar in Oslo, April 6, 1984.
Fair Distribution of Health Services
Authors: Biörck Gunnar
Published: July 2017

We have asked the former professor of internal medicine at Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm currently an MP for the Conservative Party to respond to the article on privatization of services written by Gro Harlem Brundtland.
Repeated Short-Term Sick-Leave as a Possible Symptom of Psycho-Social Problems
Authors: Leijon Margareta , Mikaelsson Bo
Published: July 2017

As part of a research project concerning repeated short-term sick-leave an intensive study has been performed aiming at estimating the frequency and character of psycho-social problems in a population with a minimum of six short sick spells during a 12-month period, in comparison with an age- and sex-matched sample of patients who went to the local general practitioner in the same area. The results show that psycho-social problems are twice as common in the group with repeated short-term sick-leave.
The Attitudes of Sterilized Women to Contraceptive Sterilization
Authors: Børdahl Per E.
Published: July 2017

Six years after their sterilization, 206 of 216 consecutively sterilized women were interviewed. Included in the semistructured interview was a series of questions about their more general attitudes to tubal sterilization. Half of the women considered the early thirties the appropriate age for contraceptive sterilization. Sixty-four women argued for male sterilization, 59 for female. The protagonists for vasectomy were younger. Twenty-seven women said contraceptive sterilization should not be more widespread, 38 believed postoperative regret was common. The abortion situation was considered inappropriate in the discussion of sterilization by 66 women; 131 found it sensible. While 84 women considered the new, liberal sterilization legislation an improvement, 110 did not agree, mainly because they considered the age limit of 25 years too low.
Geographical and Socioeconomic Distribution of High Blood Pressure and Borderline High Blood Pressure in a Swedish Rural County
Authors: Haglund Bo J. A.
Published: July 2017

This report on “high” blood pressure (HBP) and “borderline high” blood pressure (BHBP) is based on a cross-sectional study in a rural Swedish county. The study was initiated in the Spring of 1977, selecting 7986 individuals aged 25–75 years, in 5-year intervals, in the 16 municipalities of Skaraborg County. A combination of health examination and a survey using polling of the population by interview was used. The blood pressure values that are presented are based on a casual measurement taken after a 5-minute rest period. The limits of HBP and BHBP correspond to the Swedish standard limits. Only a few researchers in Sweden have focused on the correlation between socioeconomic factors and hypertension. Moreover, few examinations have been made internationally concerning the correlation between socioeconomic factors and borderline hypertension. There was a significant variation in mean values of high blood pressure when comparing socioeconomic groups and comparing occupations. These differences associated with educational level were more pronounced for women than for men. Workers, especially men and persons with less formal education, had the highest mean blood pressure. Significant differences between socioeconomic groups existed even after adjustment for age, sex, weight index, smoking and treatment of hypertension. The socioeconomic differences constitute the most plausible explanation of differences seen between municipalities. “Borderline high” blood pressure was more prevalent than “high” blood pressure. Socioeconomic differences were greater within the borderline high blood pressure group than in the high blood pressure group. i.e., the differences between workers and civil servants were somewhat greater in the borderline high blood pressure group. Since there are socioeconomic differences, it might be possible to concentrate preventive activities in local communities on risk groups.
Participants and Non-participants of Different Categories in a Health Survey: A Cross-sectional Register Study
Authors: Ohlson Carl-Göran , Ydreborg Berit
Published: July 2017

Participants and non-participants in a health survey of asbestos cement workers were compared, using data from public registers, i.e. variables of socio-medical relevance. The plant closed down in 1976 and 3 years later all living subjects, 985 persons, were offered a health examination. The participation rate was 57%. The non-participants were divided into four categories: I, those who answered the invitation but refused to participate; II, those who did not answer even after three invitations; III, those who answered and accepted but did not participate; and IV, those who participated partly. A very consistent pattern of differences between participants and non-participants was observed, the latter being significantly more often registered for Public Assistance, for heavy drinking habits or criminal offences, and had significantly lower incomes and occupational status. The sickness absence, however, was not significantly shorter among the participants. The non-participating categories II and III differed most from the participants. Category I was more similar to the participants than to the other non-participating categories. This heterogeneity of the non-response/non-participation concept should be considered when health survey data are interpreted.
Public Opinion on the Ambulance Service in a Rural and an Urban Region
Authors: Dahlgren Bengt-Einar , Svensson Per-Gunnar
Published: July 2017

Two groups of parents to schoolchildren (7 y and 15 y) were formed. The aim was to study if there were any differences in attitudes and knowledge concerning ambulance services in rural and urban areas. The results showed that knowledge about the ambulance service is good. Further, that day to day activities were considered more important than security measures to be used in emergencies. Parents living in rural parts considered the ambulance “near” but not as “near” as the parents in urban districts.
Changes in Self-reported Experienced Health and Psychosomatic Symptoms in Voluntary Participants in a 1-Year Extensive Newspaper Exercise Campaign
Authors: Andersson Gunnar , Malmgren Sture
Published: July 2017

Starting in 1977 the newspaper Östgötacorrespondenten carried through a 1-year health information campaign in Linköping. The campaign included exercise, dietary and anti-smoking components. It was given a great deal of space in the paper with special supplements almost every week. The purpose of the study is to throw light upon self-reported changed general well-being and experienced psychosomatic symptoms and health of the participants in this campaign. 2887 persons registered voluntarily for the campaign. After the campaign a questionnaire was sent to the 1568 participants who had been the most active in the campaign. 935 persons (60%) answered the questionnaire. One fourth of the participants with headache, back pain, stomach problems or sleeping trouble before the campaign experienced that their symptoms had decreased during the campaign, primarily due to changed exercise habits. Half of the participants reported that their general well-being was better and 42% experienced themselves healthier as a result of changed health habits in connection with the campaign. In the group that felt healthier, almost twice as many, 62% compared with 34%, had increased their exercising compared with those who experienced themselves as neither healthier nor less healthy.
Occurrence of Cancer in Socioeconomic Groups in Sweden: An Analysis Based on the Swedish Cancer Environment Registry
Authors: Vågerö Denny , Persson Gunnar
Published: July 2017

We wanted to examine the distribution of cancer by socioeconomic group in Sweden. For this purpose the 1960 census population was followed up for the whole period 1961–79 by means of the Swedish Cancer Environment registry. Cancer morbidity in five socioeconomic groups has analysed for each of 50 cancer sites. An association has found between several sites and particular socioeconomic groups. For instance, there are elevated rates of lung cancer and stomach cancer among blue collar workers; colon cancer and breast cancer among white collar workers and lip and stomach cancer among self-employed farmers. The overall cancer morbidity was close to the expected levels for all groups except self-employed farmers, who showed a marked deficit.
Neuropsychological Symptoms among Metal Workers Exposed to Halogenated Hydrocarbons
Authors: Rasmussen Kurt , Sabroe Svend
Published: July 2017

A cross-sectional study was designed as a questionnaire investigation with the aim of mapping the load of symptoms, especially signs of neuropsychological dysfunction in relation to degreasing with halogenated hydrocarbons. The primary study group, 240 metal workers, comprised all indentifiable persons engaged in degreasing with halogenated hydrocarbons in the county of Aarhus, the control group were 350 randomly selected semi-skilled metal workers. The final number of participants were 462 metal workers, corresponding to a rate of participation of 78.3%. The main findings were highly significant associations between exposure to halogenated hydrocarbons and symptoms of psychological dysfunction both at bivariate and multivariate analyses after adjustment for 4 potential confounder variables, age, alcohol consumption, neurological events and exposure to other organic solvents. Furthermore a dose-response-like relation could be demonstrated.
WHO—A Source of Inspiration for Researchers?
Authors: Vuori Hannu
Published: July 2017

Traditionally, the research community—be it biomedical or socio-medical—has not looked at the World Health Organization for inspiration. Understandably so: according to its constitution, the organization was founded to assist the Member States in strengthening health services by providing technical assistance (1). The staffing pattern has reflected this role; most staff members are technical experts, not researchers. They often come from the national health administrations and have limited exposure to—sometimes even limited understanding of—research.