bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review Paper: Pandemic Preparedness in Asia: A Role for Law and Ethics?
Authors: Bennett Belinda , Carney Terry
Published: June 2011

Management of pandemic influenza relies on complex coordination of many different dimensions of the health and social care systems, emergency services, levels of national and local government, civil society, communications and media, and cultural expectations. Law is one small but important component of those arrangements, which touch on fundamental ethical debates. This review demonstrates that the Asian region is actively engaging those issues in diverse ways in light of their varied socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, but scope remains for prioritising further research into these relationships.
WHO Expert Committee on Venereal Diseases and Treponematoses (Sixth Report) Technical Report Series 736
Authors: Wong T W
Published: June 2011

WHO Expert Committee on Venereal Diseases and Treponematoses (Sixth Report) Technical Report Series 736
A Serological Study of the Immune Status to Rubella in a Community in Singapore
Authors: Wong T W , Chan YC , Tan HC
Published: June 2011

In 1986, a seroepidemiological study on rubella antibody was conducted in a public housing community in Singapore using the direct latex agglutination method. The overall seropositive rate was 78.1% (95% confidence limit: 73.5% to 82.7%). There was no significant association between age and immune status for both sexes. However, the seropositive rates for females aged 15 to 19 years and 20 to 24 years were significantly higher than for females in other age groups, reflecting the impact of the rubella immunisation programme launched in 1976. There is still a considerable number of susceptible females in the reproductive age group. An extension of the present programme to cover all persons above 12 months of age is recommended, as this would reduce the overall incidence of rubella, and hence congenital rubella, by conferring immunity to young children who presently act as reservoirs of infections.
Supply and Demand Elasticities of Physician Services: Disequilibrium Analysis
Authors: Yang B M
Published: June 2011

Numerous empirical works have examined the demand for and supply of physician services during the past 15 years. Almost all simultaneous equation models have used the assumption of an equilibrium condition in the physician services market. The assumption of an equilibrium market for physician services may not be realistic, at least not in the short term, because the cost of physician services is insufficiently flexible or because of the induced demand on the part of physicians. Different market assumptions will result in different model formulations and model estimations, and with different empirical implications of the estimated results.

The paper has used the US aggregate time-series data, 1950 to 1980, to estimate the demand and supply relationship of physician services, similar to the model specified in the Martin Feldstein article, 1 under a disequilibrium physician services market assumption. The maximum likelihood method is used for the empirical estimation. Contrary to Feldstein's earlier findings, the price elasticity of the demand for physicians is statistically significant with expected signs under a disequilibrium condition. The elasticity of supply of physician services is also, as expected, positive and statistically significant. Economic and policy implications are discussed based on these findings. This paper should fill empirically the gap that has been noted by previous researchers on the demand for physician services.
The Many Epidemiological Faces of AIDS With Special Reference to Hong Kong and Implications for Prevention and Control
Authors: Thong KL
Published: June 2011

There are global differences in the epidemiological picture of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and its virus the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In Central Africa, AIDS has occurred predominantly in the sexually active age group, with a male to female ratio of 1.1: 1. The infection has been transmitted primarily by promiscuous heterosexual activity. In contrast, in the USA, the major groups at risk are male homosexuals, intravenous drug abusers and haemophiliac patients. Most of the infections have also occurred in the sexually active age group of 20 to 39 years, but the male to female ratio of reported cases was 19: 1. Similar risk groups have been affected in most of the developed countries in America, Europe and Australasia.

In Hong Kong, the three imported cases were all males with histories of sexual encounters abroad. Two were self-professed homosexuals or bisexuals, and the third admitted heterosexual contact with prostitutes. HIV infection has not been detected in intravenous drug abusers. Of the 61 HIV infections detected, 44 (72%) were in haemophiliac patients and 12 (19.8%) In homosexual or bisexual men. Only two infections were seen in women infected by transfusion of blood components in 1984 when safer products were unavailable.

Early preventive measures were taken in Hong Kong, including establishing an AIDS Expert Advisory Committee that informed the public about the facts on AIDS and gave clear guidelines to health care personnel. They were effective in averting the emotive reactions and hysteria to AIDS encountered in many developed countries. In recognition of the importance and need for epidemiological data, a seroepidemiologlcal programme was initiated in April 1985 to identify the groups infected and the extent of the infection. Universal blood donor unit screening for HIV antibody and the introduction of heat-treated Factor VIII were measures implemented to reduce parenterally acquired infections. An AIDS Education and Publicity Committee has also been assembled to heighten public awareness and to disseminate knowledge on the measures available to reduce the risk of infection. An anonymous and confidential AIDS Counselling and Consultation Clinic was established to provide an alternative testing site and to of fer advice and counselling to individuals at risk of infection.
The Seroepidemiology of Hepatitis A and B in the Asia-Pacific Region
Authors: Brown P
Published: June 2011

Published studies of the serological markers of hepatitis A (anti-HAV) and hepatitis B (HBsAg, anti-HBs, and anti-HBc) in populations of the Asia-Pacific region have been tabulated and analysed for information about the extent and pattern of virus exposure, with a view to identifying areas in need of further study, and to formulating strategies for eventual immunisation programmes.

Hepatitis A infection is shifting to older age groups as it slowly disappears from developed countries such as Australia and Japan, and poses the paradox of fewer but potentially more severe illnesses. Except for some small island populations of Oceania, where it may strike periodically in epidemic fashion, hepatitis A continues to be an endemic, ubiquitous childhood infection in the rest of the Asia-Pacific region. As subclinical or mild infection is the rule in children, indiscriminate immunisation of the general population does not seem advisable.

Hepatitis B infection is also least common in Australia, and only moderately more frequent in New Zealand and Japan, which can probably afford to restrict immunisation to high-risk population subsets. Taiwan, southeast China, and most of the perimeter countries of the Western Pacific, show an early, high prevalence of infection, which when considered in the light of the high frequency of chronic hepatitis and hepatocellular carcinoma in these countries, justifies nation-wide immunisation programmes carried out in early childhood. Infection is also widespread among Oceanic populations, but as there is little or no information for most of these populations about the frequency of late sequelae of hepatitis B, immunisation may not be urgent, or even appropriate.
The American Experience with Hazardous Waste Management
Authors: LaDou J
Published: June 2011

The United States created a fund in 1980 to clean up hazardous wastes contaminating the environment and to seek out and clean up abandoned dumping sites that harbour hazardous materials. Many of these locations are not known at this time, and others are as much as one hundred years old. The amount of money actually needed to accomplish the goals of legislation is merely speculation. The Of fice of Technology Assessment estimates that dealing with the most critical 10, 000 sites will cost US$100 billion.

The impact of hazardous wastes on the public health of surrounding communities is interpreted with caution. Of the 900 hazardous waste dump sites receiving priority attention by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), only 20 have been studied for effects on human health. No prospective study has been initiated among affected populations yet. Federal laws and most state laws do not provide a mechanism for compensating individuals who have developed illnesses from environmental exposures to hazardous waste sites.
Environmental and Occupational Lead Toxicity: Some Current Considerations
Authors: Spickett JT
Published: June 2011

The role of trace elements in human health is not well understood. Lead is generally regarded as a toxic trace element with no beneficial effects. However, the adverse effects of lead resulting from environmental and occupational exposure have been the subject of extensive research. There is still controversy over whether lead from petrol is the main source of lead for most people. There have been a number of reports of lead contamination of food, air and water, however there is some question about the accuracy of the reported data and hence the conclusions drawn.

Although certain aspects of lead toxicity are reasonably well understood there is still uncertainty about the maximum acceptable safe level and also about the wide variety of factors that affect the absorption and retention, and hence toxicity, of lead. Of particular interest is the Influence of dietary factors on lead toxicity.
Empowerment for Primary Health Care and Child Survival: Escalating Community Participation, Community Competence, and Self-Reliance in the Pacific
Authors: Raymond JS , Patrick W
Published: June 2011

Community participation is universally held to be central to the achievement of Health For All through Primary Health Care (PHC) and Child Survival (CS) strategies. Nevertheless, community participation remains a little understood and underachieved precept in public health. Some propositions and principles on the theory of community empowerment through escalating community participation in health are presented to help health planners, administrators and educators to implement PHC and CS programmes. The “expert driven” model of participation, employing persuasion, coercion, and incentives, is contrasted with a new paradigm of empowerment and community competence, the “community driven, ” expert guided model. A case study from Micronesia (Yap) is presented as one application of the community driven paradigm. Shifts in the ways experts think about communities are proposed. Implications are discussed for Primary Health Care and Child Survival as complementary strategies toward achieving Health For All.
Absenteeism of Shift and Day Workers with Special Reference to Peptic Ulcer
Authors: Higashi T , Sakurai H , Satoh T , Toyama T
Published: June 2011

The causes and duration of sickness absences have been registered for workers in 30 plants of 17 member companies of The Japan Chemical Fibers and Textile Association (JCFTA). Diseases that caused absence were classified into 38 categories by plant physicians according to a simplified version of the International Classification of Diseases, and recorded monthly in the central file of JCFTA. Using 1982 data for 26, 324 male manufacturing workers including 13, 472 shift workers, incidences (inception rate) of diseases that caused absence and days lost due to them were studied in order to evaluate the effect of shift work. The incidence of peptic ulcer was significantly higher (rate ratlo=1.6) among shift workers as compared with day workers. The incidences of days lost due to other diseases in shift workers were almost equal to or lower than those in day workers.
Relationship of Smoking to Other Life-Style Factors Among Several Ethnic Groups in Hawaii
Authors: Marchand L Le , Ntilivamunda A , Kolonel LN , Vanderford MK , Lee J
Published: June 2011

Associations between smoking status and selected life-style characteristics (food and beverage consumption, alcohol use, weight, height, obesity, education and Income) were examined among the five main ethnic groups in Hawaii (Caucasians, Japanese, Hawaiians, Filipinos and Chinese) in a sample of 18, 632 male and 19, 031 female adults who were interviewed from 1975 to 1980. Mean values for each personal characteristic, adjusted for age and ethnicity by analysis of covariance, were compared in each sex among non-, ex-and current smokers. Linear relationships with extent of smoking were also sought. Significant findings from these analyses included: an increasing use of alcohol and coffee from non-to ex-to current smokers; a greater consumption of meat and eggs and a lower consumption of fresh fruits and raw vegetables by current than by ex-and non-smokers; higher intakes of protein and cholesterol by smokers; and less obesity among smokers than non-smokers (females only). These results were consistent across ethnic groups. They were also in agreement with those obtained among Caucasians in the US and Europe, suggesting that the dietary preferences of smokers do not reflect cultural influences but rather universal personality traits or biological needs.
AIDS in the Pacific
Authors: Villagomez JT
Published: June 2011

This article summarises current AIDS and HIV infection epidemiology, population risk behaviour factors, local public health and governmental responses to AIDS and cooperative strategic plans for a Pacific “War on AIDS” among the United States Public Health Service and the Pacific jurisdiction public health agencies. The Pacific Island Health Officers Association is comprised of the Republic of Palau, the Government of Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, American Samoa and the State of Hawaii.
Endemic Goitre in Sri Lanka
Authors: Fernando MA , Balasuriya S , Herath KB , Katugampola S
Published: June 2011

This survey examined 59, 158 children from 87 schools in 17 out of 24 districts in Sri Lanka for goitre. The overall prevalence rate was 18.8%: 23.2% for girls and 14.0% for boys. Prevalence in districts varied from 30.2% in Kalutara to 6.5% in Matale. It was higher in rural than urban areas, and in inland than coastal areas. The sex ratio of prevalence rates was directly related and the ratio of palpable to visible goitre was inversely related to the severity of the endemic. It is suggested that for a rapid epidemiological assessment when the latter ratio is less than four, it is indicative of endemicity for public health purposes and calls for intervention. The iodination of salt is both practical and feasible in Sri Lanka.
Child Survival and Development Toward Health for All: Roles and Strategies for Asia-Pacific Universities
Authors: Raymond Jonathan S. , Patrick Walter
Published: June 2011

Recently, discussion among academics and practitioners has focused on the potential roles, strategies, and functions of universities in the Asia-Pacific region in the next ten to fifteen years in the global initiative commonly referred to as the Child Survival and Development Revolution toward Health for All. (1) The purpose of this paper is to capture the practical key elements of recent discussions and to extend the current thinking into potentially useful guidelines or frameworks for universities of the region. Universities may then be better prepared to move forward in ways which promote the goals and interests of the Health For All movement and the well-being of particularly the worl's children.
Training and Education in Occupational Health in China
Authors: M.D. Fengsheng He , M.D. Jiayin Lu
Published: June 2011

Training programmes in Occupational Health in the People's Republic of China have been expanded and improved tremendously since 10 years ago. There are 26 faculties of Public Health in the medical schools taking undergraduate students for a six-year basic training which leads to the degree of Bachelor of Medicine and Public Health. A three-year postgraduate course leading to the Master's degree in Occupational Health and two more years' specialist course for the doctorate degree in Occupational Health are offered by the Institute of Occupational Medicine, Chinese Academy of Preventive Medicine and six training centres for occupational health. Continuing education at multi-level seems to be of great benefit, yet needs further development.
Hearing Loss and Otitis Media on Guam: Impact of Professional Services
Authors: Garrett John Alden , Stewart Jean Lee
Published: June 2011

In less than two decades, there has been a dramatic reduction in the prevalence of otitis media and perforations among Guam's school-aged children. In addition, hearing loss due to chronic middle ear disease as a cause of disqualification from military service has dropped from a first rank order cause to next-to-last. However, there has been no reduction in the prevalence of otitis media in the preschool population. The reduction in chronic ear disease is the result of improved access to primary care, intensive hearing screening, wide availability of audiologic diagnostic and follow-up services, and comprehensive otologic care. It is essential that these services continue to be available to Guam's children to avoid a reversal of these dramatic gains. Attention must now focus on how to achieve similar gains for Micronesian children who remain restricted in their access to these resources.
Mental Health Patients in Primary Health Care Services in Nepal
Authors: Wright C , Nepal MK , Bruce-Jones WDA
Published: June 2011

Patients attending two primary care settings in Nepal (a village health post and a district hospital outpatient department) were screened for psychiatric morbidity using the Self Reporting Questionnaire. Approximately one-quarter of all patients screened were found to have psychiatric morbidity. Women presenting were found to have higher frequency of “psychiatric caseness” than men. All these psychiatric patients presented with physical complaints, none with psychological, and the most common physical symptoms presented were abdominal pain, headache and cough. Health worker recognition of these cases was 29% in the health post and 0% in the hospital. Conclusions are drawn regarding the need for sufficient and relevant psychiatric teaching in health worker curriculae
Prevention of Intellectual and Other Disabilities: The Singapore Experience
Authors: Lyen Kenneth R.
Published: June 2011

In Singapore, first level prevention, aimed at reducing the occurrence of disabilities, has included neonatal screening for glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, a programme of universal vaccination, screening for congenital hypothyroidism, and improvements in obstetric and neonatal care. Non-specific measures, such as improved housing, better nutrition and higher standards of education, have also contributed to the reduction in serious illnesses that can potentially cause disabilities.

Second level prevention, designed to limit or reverse a disability, has included a developmental screening programme carried out in the primary health care sector. Centralised multi-disciplinary developmental assessment clinics have been established to define better the disabilities and to advise on rehabilitation. An early intervention programme has been started, and special schools are being upgraded.

Third level prevention, aimed at preventing a disability from becoming a handicap, has included the setting up of comprehensive rehabilitation programmes, provision of aids and appliances, vocational training, and job opportunities. The integration of the handicapped back into society is currently being promoted.
The Need for a Participatory Conservation Programme for the Reduction of Noise Exposure to Thai Female Workers
Authors: Chavalitsakulchai P , Shahnavaz H
Published: June 2011

Hearing loss induced in thirty female workers because of exposure to continuous noise was studied in a plastic bag plant in Samutprakarn Province, the largest industrial zone in Thailand. The sound level in this plant was 98.5 dBA., 94.0 dBA. and 93.0 dBA. in the weaving, winding and warping sections, respectively. Results of an audiometric test showed a significant relationship between high noise level and hearing loss at frequency 4, 000 Hz. A questionnaire survey found that a relatively high number of workers had various symptoms such as: 76.7% general fatigue, 70% headache, 63.3% ear distension and 56.7% vertigo. Concerning the usage of ear protective devices, it was found that 80% of the workers have never used such devices, 16.7% occasionally used them, and 3.3% have always used cotton wool to reduce the high noise level. Their reasons for non-use of ear protective devices were 1) not provided by the employer (86.7%), 2) not necessary (83.3%), 3) accustomed to the noise (63.3%), 4) nobody uses (56.7%), and 5) no loud noise (16.7%). These results point to the need for improving the work conditions and welfare services of the workers at this plant. Also, hearing conservation programmes can be instituted in developing countries through cooperation among the safety inspectorate, the employer and the workers.
A Randomised Controlled Trial of Counseling in a Workplace Setting for Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factor Modification: Effects on Blood Pressure
Authors: Frommer Michael S , Mandryk John A , Edye Beryl V , Healey Sandra , Berry Geoffrey , Ferguson David A
Published: June 2011

This paper reviews a prospective study of occupational factors in coronary heart disease risk incorporated in a randomised controlled trial of a worksite based occupational health nurse counseling program for reducing coronary heart disease risk factors. The aim of the trial was to evaluate the longterm effectiveness of the counseling program in persons with mildly elevated risk factor levels. Of the 2, 489 Australian government employees with mildly elevated risk factor levels who entered the intervention trial, 1, 937 (78%) attended a followup examination three years later. This paper reports on changes in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Multiple linear regression models were used with three-year blood pressure reduction as the dependent variable, intervention status as the main determinant, and sex, age, initial risk level and initial blood pressure as covariates. Although systolic and diastolic blood pressure fell in both the intervention and control groups, intervention was significantly associated with systolic blood pressure change only.
Vaccination of Children in Japan
Authors: Nishi Motoi , Miyake Hirotsugu , Ito Yasuo , Kagiichi Sachiko , Kimura Masami , Suzuki Asako , Takaoka Akinori , Tago Naoko , Nagase Kumi
Published: June 2011

The coverage rates of six vaccines (BCG, polio, DPT, measles, mumps and varicella) and the prevalence of these diseases in Japan were investigated. It was found that 82.2% of children had been inoculated with BCG before their first birthday, and 85.4% were given two doses of polio vaccine before their second birthday. The high acceptance rates of these vaccines seem to be attributable to mass inoculations at health centers. On the other hand, the median age when the first dose of DPT vaccine was given was as late as 22 months. Mass administration of this vaccine during infancy should be performed since about one-quarter of the patients with diphtheria, pertussis or tetanus were less than one year old. The cumulative percentage for measles inoculation failed to reach 60% by the second birthday. Considering that the incidence of measles has not yet been satisfactorily lowered and that infants under 23 months of age account for about one-half of this incidence, more children less than 18 months old should be immunized. The ineffective rate of varicella vaccine was found to be 18.2%, although reestimation of its effectiveness may be necessary.
The Impact of Training Traditional Birth Attendants in Improving MCH Care in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Begum Jahan Ara , Kabir Iqbal Aminul , Mollah AHM Yasin
Published: June 2011

This study evaluates the impact of training in changing the knowledge and practices of traditional birth attendants (TBAs) with regard to antenatal, intranatal and postnatal care of mothers and newborn babies. Training has improved the quality of their care. Most TBAs (71.2%) had traditional beliefs as to the cause of neonatal sickness, and training has led them to change their beliefs in favour of infection. Prior to training, a majority (58%) of the TBAs never used to make antenatal visits, while after training 72% of them began making such visits. They also have learned the importance of antiseptic measures during delivery. Training also has helped to eliminate harmful practices such as septic abortion.
Causes of Infant Mortality in a Multiethnic Population
Authors: Baruffi Gigliola , Alexander Greg , Novotny Rachel
Published: June 2011

Causes of infant mortality and their change over time in five ethnic groups were investigated using linked infant death and live birth certificates from the State of Hawaii, 1968-1983. Over the study period, there were 3, 324 deaths of which 31 percent were to Whites, 26 percent to Hawaiians, 17 percent to Asians, 15 percent to Filipinos and 10 percent to other ethnic groups. Significant changes in the proportion of deaths by cause occurred over the period. Perinatal causes remained the most frequent, but their relative contribution to annual infant deaths declined from 61 percent to 47 percent. The proportion of deaths from congenital anomalies increased from 19 percent to 30 percent, while the proportion of deaths from infectious diseases declined from 14 percent to 4 percent. There was a significant difference in the proportion of deaths by cause between ethnic groups in the early years of the study period. However, during the last four years 1980-1983, no significant difference between ethnic groups was observed.
Treatment Efficiency and Filtration Rate of a Horizontal Sand Filtration System
Authors: Kompayak Udom , Dejthai Thonglaw
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study was to establish acceptable criteria for a horizontal sand filtration (HSF) system that are suitable for the design of community water supply units in rural areas. Two laboratory scales of HSF were constructed and tested for their filtration rates and treatment efficiency in Visetchaicharn District of Angthong Province, Thailand. The main structure of both models was the same except for the lengths of the filtration column, i.e., 80 cm. in Model 1 and 100 cm. in Model 2. The results of treatment efficiency of both models were very satisfactory. The physical and chemical quality of the filtered water was within the standards for drinking water except for bacteria quality. The rates of filtration of Model 1 were slightly faster than those of Model 2 for both one and two meters of water level in the raw water column. The rates for both models were higher than the lower limit standards of the slow sand filtration system throughout the study.
Trends in the Epidemiology of Injuries Due to Road Traffic Accidents in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Jayasuriya Rohan
Published: June 2011

The trends of Road Traffic Accidents (RTA) in PNG illustrate a rapidly growing problem for developing countries. In this paper data of a time series for twenty years are analyzed to ascertain the trends in main indicators and injury rates. The relationship of injuries to road users and type of vehicle highlights the problems of passengers of utility vehicles and buses. An emerging problem of RTA due to use of light coaches for passenger transport is highlighted. The need for behavioral interventions and tighter regulations is argued.
Mortality Trend in a Rapidly Developing Economy in Taiwan Part II: Life Expectancy and “Potential Years of Life Lost”
Authors: Tsai Shan P , Wen CP , Guo JP , Tsai SF
Published: June 2011

Taiwan has made remarkable economic progress in the last 30 years. The life expectancy of its population improved steadily during this period. A male child born in 1983 could look forward to 70.4 years of life and a female child to 75.3 years, gains of 17.5 years and 19.0 years, respectively, since 1950. The potential gains in life expectancy of the Taiwan population are also examined if the five leading causes of death are reduced or eliminated.

In addition, this paper discusses the concept of potential productive years of life lost (PYLL), examines the leading causes of premature death and shows how this measure can be used to target prevention programs and health care planning.
Shifting Paradigms of International Health
Authors: Pannenborg CO
Published: June 2011

The evolution of international health is showing increasing symptoms of decline. The paradigms of world health crystallized into a clear system of international health relations in the post-war period (1945-1960), based upon the tenet to preserve and promote peace, culminating in the establishment and effectiveness of the World Health Organization (WHO). The last decades have witnessed the emergence of Primary Health Care (PHC) and the subsequent objective of “Health for All” (HFA) as the guiding principles of the field. By the 1990s, however, the strategic weakness of these paradigms has become apparent, yet no realistic substitute is in sight. Unless a serious and urgent attempt is undertaken at reformulating its basic conceptual tenets, the field of international health, and with it WHO, is risking a major decline and could ultimately pass into obscurity and oblivion.
Quality of Life: A Possible Health Index for the Elderly
Authors: Kai Ichiro , Ohi Gen , Kobayashi Yasuki , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Hisata Mitsuru , Kiuchi Matuyoko
Published: June 2011

To assess whether quality of life (QOL) could be employed as an outcome measure of health programs for elderly populations, we evaluated the relationship between subjective assessment of QOL (“morale scale”) and objective constituents of active life such as activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL (IADL) and work status along with determination of active life expectancy (ALE) in a rural district in Japan (n=13, 529). The QOL scale was positively correlated with ADL, IADL and work status but not with age. Validity and test-retest reliability were satisfactory as regards the small subsamples of respondents. ALE of the elderly aged 60 to 64 was 15.2 years, while their life expectancy was 27.1 years. Factors associated with lower ADL included age, lower IADL and joblessness. The QOL measurement and the objective variables can be incorporated into an assessment of the health status of the elderly in addition to conventional indices based on mortality.
The Demand for OTC Medicines: Some Australian Evidence
Authors: Johnson Lester W.
Published: June 2011

One of the major social goals of the government in any country is the provision of adequate health care for all its residents. This is certainly the case in Australia where total health expenditure as a proportion of gross domestic product (GDP) has risen since the early 1970s to its current level of over 7%. Well over half of this health expenditure comes from the public purse upon which increasing demands are being made. One potential means of reducing this pressure in the health area is a greater reliance on self health care which includes the use of OTC medicines. The present paper examines the economics of self health care through the specification of an economic model of the demand for self care and the empirical testing of this model using Australian data. The model is then used to calculate the consumer surplus in the market for OTC medicines as a measure of part of the benefits of self medication in the Australian health care system.
Etiological Investigation of Farmer's Lung Disease: A Serological Study
Authors: Shen Yi-e , Wu Cui-E , Tao Bing-Gen , Chen Guo-Xing , Hong Zeng-Rong , Shan Wei-Iiang
Published: June 2011

To confirm the main etiological antigen of farmer's lung in Dafeng County, Jiangsu Province, People's Republic of China, precipitins in serum from 30 patients with farmer's lung were tested with several strains of antigens. Reactions against two strains of T.vulgaris were shown in 46.7% and 66.7% of the patients group, which were significantly higher than in the controls, while the percentage of reactions against Faenia rectivirgula and A.fumigates were low in the patients group and had no significant difference with the controls. The results indicate that the main etiological agents were some strains of T.vulgaris. This finding was consistent with the microbiological study of sputum of the patients and moldy hay samples from the working area.
Preparation and Certification of Lyophilized Human Urine for Trace Metals Reference Material in China
Authors: Yongxiao Ruan , Hongwei Wang , Shuqing Lu , Lizhong Zhang , Zaiyong Wang , Hong Wei
Published: June 2011

The preparation of lyophilized human urine certified reference material (CRM) was established on the basis of literature in other countries and domestic conditions. The homogeneity and stability of the CRM accord with the stipulations. The certified values were determined by 14 high level laboratories in China using nine methods with different principles and have been examined by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) using Inductively Coupled Plasma—Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). This CRM has been approved as first grade national reference material. It can be used in quality control of routine analysis, test of new methods, and as standard material for calibration of analytical Instruments and as certified reference material for quantity transmission and analysis arbitration.
The Sampling Design for the Korean National Nutrition Survey
Authors: Kim Jong Kun , Lee Seung Wook , Kye Hoon Bang
Published: June 2011

Korea has been conducting the National Nutrition Survey annually since 1969. Due to the magnitude and budget of the survey, its sample size was limited to 1, 000. Since 1989, however, the government has increased the size to 2, 000. We developed a new sampling design suitable when budget is limited and cases to be covered are relatively very small, which has been in use since 1987. The outline of the design is introduced. Basic sampling method adopted was Probability Proportional to Size (PPS) sampling. Using the Enumeration Districts (EDs) as primary sampling units (PSU), we selected 300 EDs and constructed six identical sample sets, each having 50 ED's. From each ED, we selected 20 households. Therefore, one set has 1, 000 households. Currently, two sets are being used for the survey.
Attitude Change Towards Mental Illness during Nursing Education —-A Cross-cultural Study of Student Nurses in Korea, Republic of China and Japan
Authors: Kumakura N , Ito H , Mori T , Saito T , Kurisu E , Asaka A , Sasaki Y , Rhi B , Kim Y , Ha K , Rin H , Lee Y Yang
Published: June 2011

This is an initial report of a cooperative project by colleagues in Korea, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Japan, involving the measuring of attitudes toward mental illness. The discussion mainly revolves around the influence of mental health education in nursing on attitudes towards mental illness.

The subjects' attitudes were assessed by Wig's profiles. The attitudes of freshmen who had just entered nursing schools and seniors who had already finished clinical training in psychiatry were compared to measure the attitude change during the course of nursing education, if any. Non-medical students sewed as a control group. As a result, a seemingly “negative and pessimistic” attitude was demonstrated in the senior student nurses. The findings are examined and discussed.
Prevalence of Hepatitis B Surface Antigen and Antibody among Health Care Employees in Negri Sembilan, Malaysia, 1989
Authors: Tan TC , Vadivale M , Ong CN
Published: June 2011

This study was based on a hepatitis B screening program conducted in one of the states in Malaysia in 1989. The majority (84.6%) of the 2986 health employees were screened. One quarter (25%) was found to have serological markers for the Hepatitis B Virus (HBV); 2.1% had Hepatitis B surface Antigen (HBsAg) and 22.8% had antibody to the Hepatitis B surface Antigen (anti-HBs). The occurrence of HBsAg was higher in ethnic Chinese (6.3%) compared to Malays (1.8%) and Indians (0.9%), even when analyzed by sex, but not with age, type of institution and geographical locality. The distribution of anti-HBs was higher with ethnic Chinese (41.6%), male sex (27.2%) and age. There was a wide variation of the prevalence of serological markers among occupations and increased relative risks of HBsAg were found among medical assistants (RR 3.2; 95% CI 1.4-9.1) and laboratory staff (RR 3.2; 95% CI 1-8.8), and that of anti-HBs among medical assistants (RR 2.8; 95% CI 1.8-3.7). The variations of HBsAg among occupations by type of institutions was marginal while that of anti-HBs was higher among attendants and mid-wives in hospitals, medical assistants in health departments, and assistant nurses and dentists in dental centers. The patterns of distribution of serological markers of HBV among health staff reflect the situation in the community with high endemicity and resemble specific occupational factors noted in previous studies in the West.
Effectiveness of a Worksite Nutrition Education Activity in a Factory in China
Authors: Guldan Georgia S , Yongpeng Zhang , Yan Huang , Xiaomei Yang , Guo Zeng
Published: June 2011

To evaluate the effectiveness of a worksite nutrition education activity in China, a two-group pretest-posttest nutrition education lesson was designed and carried out in two divisions (N = 240 in each division) of a steel tube factory in Chengdu, Sichuan. Special features of the program were nutrition education materials developed from both (a) the results of a pretest survey of the employees, and (b) focus group discussions conducted with factory hospital and workteam staff; a colloquial style; a slogan; and an illustrated handout depicting the new Chinese Dietary Guidelines and a proposed Food Guide. Analysis of variance, chi-square, and t-tests showed both significant increases (p < 0.05) in nutrition knowledge and attitude scores and significant improvements in dietary practices in the group receiving the education. It is concluded that the method is a useful and practical model for designing and developing worksite nutrition education in China.
Impact of Motor Vehicle Injury in Taiwan Using Potential Productive Years of Life Lost
Authors: MacKinney Theodore , Baker Timothy
Published: June 2011

Motor vehicle injuries are a major harmful side effect of industralization. We examine this relationship in a rapidly industrializing country, Taiwan, using Potential Productive Years of Life Lost (PPYLL) analysis, and suggest ways that the injury toll of industrialization might be mitigated. We also compare Taiwan to the US, Hungary, Korea, and Chile. Taiwan has a higher PPYLL per 100, 000 population due to motor vehicle injury (530/100, 000) than cardiac disease, cancer, or strokes. Twenty-five years ago, more PPYLL was due to cancer, strokes, cardiac disease, and tuberculosis than to motor vehicle injuries (106/100, 000). Taiwan's PPYLL rate is much greater than three other industrializing countries-Chile, Korea, and Hungary-and twice that of the US.

Explanations for the dramatic rise in motor vehicle injury deaths in Taiwan may be high use of motorcycles, lack of motorcycle helmets, increase in alcohol use, high car density, and road and vehicle safety design problems.
Paint — Health and Environmental Risk Management: Report of an International Symposium held in Singapore: June 1–4, 1992
Authors: Harrington J. M. , Rose F. G. , Koh D.
Published: June 2011

Over the past ten years, concern over the possible health effects of occupational exposure to solvent based paints, as well as more general concerns over the environmental impact of such products, has led to several international workshops. The most recent symposium, convened in Singapore in June 1992, brought together a group of international experts from academic, government and industrial backgrounds. The purpose was twofold: to identify consensus areas related to health and environmental risk assessment of paints, and to describe where further work was necessary to enhance convergence of view.

The symposium proved particularly valuable in focusing on issues of current relevance and providing useful guidance for risk management strategies within the industry. The main areas addressed were the general principles and specific processes in risk assessment, organic solvents in the risk assessment process, risk communication, and comparative risks of water-based and solvent-based paints. Each subject area was introduced by a keynote speaker, followed by syndicate discussions and conclusions. To our knowledge this was the first workshop of its kind and we believe it provided a valuable model for the future.
Lead Concentration in Rain Water Used for Drinking in the Area Surrounding Bangkok
Authors: Nakata Kazuyo , Wansorn Sommai , Takano Takehito
Published: June 2011

Lead concentrations in jar water, originating from rain and used for drinking, were measured in 1990 in some of the villages surrounding Bangkok, Thailand. There were differences in lead concentrations among the villages: the values were 2.32, 1.38, 1.05 and 3.48 μg/liter in Maptaphut, Rai-Noong, Leam-Chabang and Rangsit-Pathumtani, respectively. As to direct health effects, these lead levels in the water were acceptably low at that point in time in 1990 when the study was conducted. The lead concentration in rain water was considered to be an appropriate indicator representing environmental quality under rapid industrialization. Considering that further advancement of industrialization and urbanization is expected in these areas in the near future, periodic measurement is needed for longitudinal environmental monitoring. The values presented herein can be used as background data before extensive urbanization.
Mortality Mapping in Hong Kong, 1979-83 and 1984-88: The Patterns of Major Non-Malignant Diseases
Authors: Yu TS , Wong SL , Wong TW , Lloyd Owen L
Published: June 2011

We examined the spatial patterns of mortality from various non-malignant diseases in Hong Kong during the two quinquennia, 1979-83 and 1984-88. Population data and parameters reflecting socioeconomic factors, including ethnic backgrounds, were selected from census data. Mortality data were obtained from death registration files. The standardized mortality ratios (SMRs) for major diseases were calculated for 27 census districts. The rankings of the districts' SMRs were shown in map form. Correlations were calculated between the districts' SMRs for the diseases, between them and the SMRs for cancers, and between them and socioeconomic and ethnic parameters.

Many spatial patterns and correlations showed consistency and were biologically plausible. These results showed that mapping for a rapidly growing city such as Hong Kong could be a valuable exercise for detecting “at risk” populations where causal factors for non-malignant diseases can be investigated and identified for possible elimination.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Family Planning in Rural Communities in Nigeria
Authors: Aja GN , Nwangwa MA , Egwu IN
Published: June 2011

Maternal and infant mortality rates, coupled with a high population growth rate, are unacceptably high in Nigeria. More recently, the Nigerian government endorsed the promotion of reproductive health, including family planning, through maternal and child health services. The Ohaozara Local Government Area (LGA) introduced a Five-Year Action Plan (FYAP) in 1989. To appraise the Ohaozara Five-Year Action Plan, 600 persons stratified by geographical location and sex were interviewed in three randomly selected autonomous communities in the Ohaozara Local Government Area to determine their knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP).

The findings in this study showed a high awareness level with a moderately positive attitude and generally low level of practice. Comprehensive reproductive health education (RHE), budgetary increase, evaluation of FYAP, and program coordination arc recommended.
Parental Smoking Habits and Infant Birth Weight
Authors: Jadsri Somchai , Jadsri Chootip
Published: June 2011

The study was conducted from May 1991 to April 1992 to determine the factors which affect low infant birth weight. The sample was drawn from pregnant women who delivered live single infants. Weight and gender of the newborn were recorded as well as the parental smoking habit. The study found that there were significant associations between low birth weight infants and maternal smoking habit (RR = 2.9; p > 0.05), father's smoking habit (RR = 1.5; p > 0.05), and length of gestation (RR = 3.2; p > 0.05). The variables for which no association with low birth weight infants was observed in this study were coffee intake, gender of infant, and the order of birth.
Self-Medication Among University Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Lau Grace SN , Lee Kenneth KC , Luk Mphil CT
Published: June 2011

Five hundred and sixty-three university students were interviewed to survey the practice of self-medication which was found to be very prevalent (94.0%). The most commonly used items included remedies for cough and cold, antipyretics and analgesics. Topical preparations and Chinese herbal medicines were also frequently consumed. Self-medication items were mostly obtained from home medicine cabinets and pharmacy shops (not necessarily staffed by registered pharmacists) and they also relied heavily on family members and previous illness experience for information on the medications they took. The healthcare professionals only played a minor role in the provision of drug information. Nevertheless, the concept of self-medication is well-established among these university students as they recognised that minor illness could be cared for without seeing a doctor. Healthcare professionals should assume more active roles in the provision of drug information and counselling so that a good self-care programme could be established.
Gastric Cancer in Tasmania (1978-1992)
Authors: Ansari Mohammad Z
Published: June 2011

A detailed analyses of gastric cancer incidence and mortality rates in Tasmania was done using fifteen years (1978-1992) of population based Tasmanian Cancer Registry data. The age standardised incidence rates for the period were 12.5 per 100, 000 men (95% CI 11.4-13.6) and 5.2 per 100, 000 women (95% CI 4.6-5.8). The age standardised mortality rates were 10.6 per 100, 000 men (95% CI 9.6-11.6) and 4.1 per 100, 000 women (95% CI 3.5-4.6). Male:Female ratio of mortality rates was 2.6. Gastric cancer mortality rates have now significantly declined among males (p=.03) and females (p=.02). No significant decline was observed for incidence rates among males (p=.1) and females (p=.3). For cases overall, there was a preponderance of intestinal type of gastric cancer (76.5%). No significant trend over time was observed in the mean rate of occurrence of intestinal or diffuse type of gastric cancer. The ratio of intestinal: diffuse was 6.5 for all ages. Among males, a significant (p=.03) upward trend in the incidence was observed for proximal tumours, while no such trend (p=.07) was observed among women. A significant decline in incidence of distal tumours was observed for males (p=.000) and females (p.007). Male:Female ratio for proximal tumour was 4.7:1. The results suggests that Tasmanians may have been a population at high risk of gastric cancer.