bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HIV/AIDS Prevention : Knowledge, Attitudes and Education Practices of Secondary School Health Personnel in 14 Cities of China
Authors: Chen J.Q. , Dunne M.P. , Zhao D.C.
Published: June 2011

This study assessed the preparedness of school health personnel to develop and deliver HIV/AIDS prevention education programmes for young people in China. A survey of 653 personnel working in secondary schools in 14 cities was conducted. More than 90% had basic knowledge of ways in which HIV can be transmitted, but knowledge of ways in which the virus is not transmitted needs improvement. Substantial numbers of teachers were not sure whether there was an effective preventive vaccine (42%) or did not know whether AIDS was a curable illness or not (32%). The great majority approved of AIDS prevention programmes in universities (98%) and secondary schools (91%), although fewer (58%) agreed that the topic was appropriate for primary schools. Currently, most classroom activities focuses on teaching facts about HIV/AIDS transmission, while less than half are taught about HIV/AIDS related discrimination and life skills to reduce peer pressure. Personnel with some prior training on HIV/ AIDS education (53%) had better factual knowledge, more tolerant attitudes and more confidence in teaching about HIV/AIDS than those without training. The majority of teachers indicated a need for more resource books, audiovisual products, expert guidance, school principal support and dissemination of national AIDS prevention education guidelines to schools. Asia Pac J Public Health 2004; 16(1): 9-14.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistant Shigellae among Primary School Children in Urban Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Udo S.M. , Eja M.E.
Published: June 2011

In a recent study, involving the examination of 593 stool samples obtained from randomly selected children from three primary schools in Calabar, Shigella spp. were isolated from 123 (20.7%) of the samples. The infection rate was highest among the younger children with (64.2%) 79/123 of the isolates coming from children under 10 years of age. Infection rate was comparable among boys and girls ( p=0.1). Only two species of Shigella were isolated viz: Shigella flexneri 12.0% (71/593) and Shigella sonnei 8.8% (52/593), in this study. The infection rate was highest in the Government Public Primary school, which also had the highest ratio of pupils per toilet. In all, 24 (19.5%) of the isolates were sensitive to all of the nine antimicrobial agents tested while 67 (54.5%) were resistant to two or more antibiotics. The data generated from this study show that there is a high infection rate of shigellosis among primary school children in this study area and calls for better health education, improved and sustainable sanitation and provision of more functional toilets with running water in the primary schools. Asia Pac J Public Health 2004; 16(1): 41-44.
Mainland Chinese Students' Concept of Health
Authors: Wang W.
Published: June 2011

This investigation, which was part of a larger project, was to describe and explain the concept of health as perceived by Chinese students. Data were collected through a questionnaire from students from two primary schools, two high schools and two universities (N=946) in Shanghai, China. The results showed that Chinese students not only considered themselves healthy but also viewed adolescents as the healthiest people in comparison with children, the middle and the old-aged. Their health concept consisted of components relating to physical, psychological, and social/moral dimensions. There were more boys than girls who considered mental health to be part of general health and a tendency for boys to perceive health status as poorer along with the increase in age. The categories of the concept of health and students' views on how to enhance health status are presented. Asia Pac J Public Health 2004; 16(2): 89-94.
Smoking Cessation among Hong Kong Chinese Smokers Attending Hospital as Outpatients: Impact of Doctors' Advice, Successful Quitting and Intention to Quit
Authors: Yu D.K.H. , Wu K.K. , Abdullah A.S.M. , Chai S.C. , Chai S.B. , Chau K.Y. , Jeong A.K.Y. , Liu C.Y. , Tam W.K. , Yu W.H. , Yam H.K.
Published: June 2011

To identify factors affecting current smokers' intention to quit smoking and factors associated with successful quitting among ex-smokers in Hong Kong. A cross-sectional survey of Chinese patients attending medical and surgical Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOPCs) of public hospitals in Hong Kong, using a structured questionnaire. Results of the 642 respondents, 21% were current smokers, 9% were ex-smokers and 69% were non-smokers. 74% of the smokers reportedly received quitting advice from doctors. Among the current smokers, past quitting attempts, receiving information from sources other than doctors, believing that doctor's advice was useful, believing that all smokers should quit smoking and a positive attitude towards quitting were associated with intention to quit. Among those who had attempted to quit, being older (aged 50 or above), being retired / unemployed and consuming more than 10 cigarettes per day were associated with successful quitting. We found that advice from doctors on quitting smoking did not have any impact on Chinese smokers quitting or future intention to quit and reflect the inadequacy of advice given by Hong Kong doctors. The predictors of intention to quit and successful quitting identified in the study could be used to design future smoking cessation services. Asia Pac J Public Health 2004; 16(2): 115-120.
Factors affecting Nutritional Status of Malaysian Primary School Children
Authors: Anuar Zaini M.Z. , Lim C.T. , Low W.Y. , Harun F.
Published: June 2011

This paper investigates the nutritional status of a randomly selected cohort of school children and the factors affecting it. This random survey was conducted in the state of Selangor, involving 1,405 primary students (aged 9-10 years from 54 national primary schools). Physical examination was carried out on all the students. Information on the students was also obtained from the parents. Blood samples were taken by using the finger pricking technique. Body mass index (BMI) was used as a measure of physical growth.

The students were mainly from urban areas (82.9%). The mean age was 9.71 years and a higher proportion was females (51%). Malays constituted 83.6%, Indians 11.6% and Chinese 4.2% of the study population. The mean weight and height were 32.30 kg and 135.18cm respectively. The mean BMI was 17.42 kg/m2, with 1.2% of the students underweight, 76.3% normal BMI, 16.3% overweight and 6.3% were obese. Nutritional status was significantly related to blood pressure, history of breast feeding, eating fast food, taking canned/bottled drinks, income and educational level of parents. Significant differences in nutritional status between sexes and locations (rural/ urban) were also found. The prevalence of overweight and obese children was of concern. There is thus an urgent need for the School Health Program to periodically monitor the school children's eating habits and physical growth. Appropriate counselling on nutritional intake and physical activities should be given not only to schoolchildren but also to their teachers and parents or caregivers. Asia Pac J Public Health 2005; 17(2): 71-80.
Identifying Competencies for Australian Health Professionals Working in International Health
Authors: Akbar H. , Hill P.S. , Rotem A. , Riley I.D. , Zwi A.B. , Marks G.C. , Mark T.
Published: June 2011

A profile of the roles performed by Australian health professionals working in international health was constructed to identify the core competencies they require, and the implications for education and training of international health practitioners. The methods used included: literature review and document analysis of available training and education; an analysis of competencies required in job descriptions for international health positions; and consultations with key informants.

The international health roles identified were classified in four main groups: Program Directors, Program Managers, Team Leaders and Health Specialists. Thirteen 'core' competencies were identified from the job analysis and key informant/group interviews.

Contributing to international health development in resource poor countries requires high level cultural, interpersonal and team-work competencies. Technical expertise in health disciplines is required, with flexibility to adapt to new situations. International health professionals need to combine public health competencies with high level personal maturity to respond to emerging challenges. Asia Pac J Public Health 2005; 17(2): 99-103.
Smoking among Secondary School Students in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Authors: Lee L.K. , Paul C.Y.C. , Kam C.W. , Jagmohni K.
Published: June 2011

This study was done to determine the prevalence of smoking and factors influencing cigarette smoking among secondary school students in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. This is a cross-sectional school survey conducted on 4500 adolescent students based on a structured questionnaire. Data was collected using the supervised self administered questionnaire the Youth Risk Behaviour Surveillance in the Malaysian National Language Bahasa Malaysia. The prevalence of smoking among the students was 14.0%. About a third of the students (37.8%) started smoking at 13 to 14 years of age. The prevalence of smoking among the male students was higher (26.6%) compared to the female students (3.1 %). Adolescent smoking was associated with (1) sociodemographic factors (age, ethnicity, rural/urban status); (2) environmental factors (parental smoking, staying with parents); (3) behavioural factors (playing truant and risk-taking behaviours such as physical fighting, drug use, alcohol use, sexual activity, lack of seatbelt use, riding with a drunk driver); (4) lifestyle behaviours (being on diet and lack of exercise); (5) personal factors (feeling sad and suicidal behaviours). In conclusion, smoking is a major problem among Malaysian adolescents. Certain groups of adolescents tend to be at higher risk of smoking. This problem should be curbed early by targeting these groups of high risk adolescents. Asia Pac J Public Health 2005; 17(2): 130-136.
Community Smoking Behavior in Changqiao, Shanghai
Authors: Pinpin Zheng  , Yingying Fu  , Yimin Lu  , Ming Ji  , Hovell Melbourne F. , Hua Fu
Published: June 2011

China has observed increasing tobacco use in the past decade. Only a few studies describing smoking behavior were reported at the community level in China. The present research aimed to obtain baseline data on tobacco use and factors that influence smoking behaviors in a local community in Shanghai, China. A total of 2100 residents in Changqiao, Shanghai, between ages 13 and 84 years were surveyed using a multistage proportional random sampling design. On the basis of that, a subsampling was conducted, and 1500 residents were randomly selected to avoid a cluster effect. There were 28.3% ever smokers (53.3% for men and 2.3% for women) and 23.5% current smokers (44.2% for men and 1.9% for women). Men ages 40 to 49 years smoked the most (more than 17 cigarettes per day on average). Age, education, and marital status were significant predictors of current smoking among men. Only 13.4% of current smokers were willing to quit. The prevalence of secondhand smoke exposure was 30.4% among nonsmokers. Smoking and secondhand smoking are serious problems in Changqiao, Shanghai. Comprehensive and intensive interventions should be implemented to motivate quitting and reduce secondhand smoke exposure.
Problems Related to Menstruation and Their Effect on Daily Routine of Students of a Medical College in Delhi, India
Authors: Sharma Anamika , Taneja Devender K. , Sharma Pragya , Saha Renuka
Published: June 2011

Menstrual problems are common among young girls. These deserve careful evaluation as uncorrected menstrual problems may adversely affect the daily routine and quality of life. The aim of this article is to study the prevalence and the effect of menstrual disorders on daily routine among unmarried undergraduate medical students and their treatment-seeking behavior. Of 276 undergraduate girl students, 112 were sampled by stratified random sampling. All the consenting participants were given a pretested semistructured questionnaire to collect their responses by personal interviews. The data collected were analyzed. Premenstrual syndrome (67%) and dysmenorrhea (33%) were perceived by the study subjects as the most distressing problems associated with menstruation. The most common effect of menstrual problems on daily routine reported by the study subjects was in the form of prolonged resting hours (54%) followed by inability to study (50%). More than half (52%) of the subjects discussed their problems with their mother, and 60% of the study subjects were opted for allopathic treatment for their menstrual problems.
Depressive Symptoms in Middle-Aged Women in Peninsular Malaysia
Authors: Zuraida Zainal Nor
Published: June 2011

A household survey was carried out in Peninsular Malaysia to determine the prevalence rate of depressive symptoms in middle-aged women and to explore its associated factors. Women aged 45 to 60 years were assessed on sociodemographic profiles, menopausal status, depressive symptoms, marital dissatisfaction, and coping strategies. A total of 3934 women participated, and the mean age was 51 years. The prevalence rate of depressive symptoms was 54.2%. Of the married women, 38.4% had poor to very severe problems in their marriage. Depressive symptoms were significantly associated with marital status ( P < .001), ethnicity ( P < .001), educational levels ( P < .001), occupational status ( P < .001), domicile ( P < .001), and menopausal status ( P < .05). Depressive symptoms were correlated with marital dissatisfaction scores. Women who consulted professionals, shared with relatives, kept problems to themselves, or consulted parents/siblings had higher mean scores on depressive symptoms compared with those who did not use these coping strategies.
Child Immunization Coverage in Rural Hard-to-Reach Haor Areas of Bangladesh: Possible Alternative Strategies
Authors: Uddin Md. Jasim , Larson Charles P. , Oliveras Elizabeth , Khan Azharul Islam , Quaiyum M. A. Md. Abdul , Chandra Saha Nirod
Published: June 2011

This article assessed the status of childhood vaccination coverage and the possibility of using selected alternative vaccination strategies in rural hard-to-reach haor (low lying) areas of Bangladesh. Data were collected through survey, in-depth interviews, group discussion, and observations of vaccination sessions. Complete immunization coverage among 12- to 23-month-old children was found to be significantly lower in study areas when compared with the national coverage levels. The study identified reasons for low complete immunization coverage in hard-to-reach areas, including irregular/cancelled extended program on immunization (EPI) sessions, less time spent in EPI spots by field staff, and absence of any alternative strategy for remote areas. The findings indicated that the existing service delivery strategy is not sufficient to improve immunization coverage in hard-to-reach areas. However, most of the strategies assessed are considered possible to implement by health care providers in hard-to-reach areas. The study suggested that before implementing alternative strategies in hard-to-reach areas, feasibility and effectiveness of the possible strategies need to be tested to identify evidence-based strategies.
Assessment of Mental Health Status of Senior Secondary School Children in Delhi
Authors: Dhuria Meera , Sharma Nandini , Devender Kumar Taneja  , Kumar Rajesh , Gopal Krishan Ingle
Published: June 2011

Background. Schoolchildren undergo rapid mental, emotional, and social changes and are susceptible to psychiatric disorders. Objectives. This study aimed to assess the mental health status and some determinants in senior secondary school children in Delhi. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 458 children, selected by 2-stage sampling. Goldberg's General Health Questionnaire containing 60 items (GHQ-60) was used for assessment of mental health. Results. GHQ was administered to 239 boys and 219 girls in the age group of 15 to 20 years. Of 458 students, 113 (24.7%) had a score ≥16, the cutoff score, indicating mental morbidity among them. Among boys and girls, 28.5% and 20.5%, respectively, had some component of mental morbidity. Morbidity was significantly higher in children hailing from nuclear families and among children who had either failed or those who had scored highest in the class. Conclusion. Mental health needs of schoolchildren need to be addressed by the school health services.
The Stages of Physical Activity and Exercise Behavior: An Integrated Approach to the Theory of Planned Behavior
Authors: Park Byung-Ha , Lee Moo-Sik , Hong Jee-Young , Bae Seok-Hwan , Kim Eun-Young , Kim Kwang-Kee , Kim Dae-Kyoung
Published: June 2011

This research aims to verify whether it is possible to explain the health-promoting behaviors based on sociodemographic characteristics by integrating the theory of planned behavior (TPB) proposed by Ajzen in 1988 and the transtheoretical model (TTM) proposed by Prochaska and DiClemente in 1983. In particular, the aim was to verify whether the variables of the TPB can properly distinguish the stages of change in exercise in the proposed integrated model and to figure out how attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavior control, influence, and intention-can explain the stages of change in exercise. Investigators who have taken previous training for the survey visited and interviewed 3658 people older than 30 years in the chosen town by multistage sampling method from July 27 to July 31, 2003. After the exclusion of inappropriate data out of 760 participants, only data from 584 participants were used for this research. χ2 test, t test, and 1-way analysis of variance were used to identify the difference between the distribution of the stages of change in exercise and the variables of the means. A discriminant analysis to verify the accuracy of the stages of change in exercise by means of the variables of the TPB and a path analysis to verify the fit of the integrated model were also used. The variables of the TPB were useful to satisfactorily distinguish and predict the stages of change in exercise. But to clarify the validity of this model, more diversified research should be conducted in the future, and the results must be accumulated.
Estimating Unit Costs for Dental Service Delivery in Institutional and Community-Based Settings in Southern Thailand
Authors: Tianviwat Sukanya , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Birch Stephen
Published: June 2011

In this cross-sectional study, the cost of different dental services was estimated and the unit costs of dental services for schoolchildren were compared between 2 settings: hospital-based and community-based mobile dental clinics. Heads of all departments in a selected community hospital were invited to attend 2 workshops to collect relevant data. Unit costs of different dental services varied from 41 to 2693 baht, with services falling into 4 unit cost groups: very high, high, moderate, and low. The very-high-unit-cost services included rehabilitative dental services. The high-unit-cost services covered removal of an impacted tooth, root canal treatment, and tooth-color fillings. The moderate-unit-cost group included a wide range of other dental services, with screening and oral hygiene instruction in community-based dental clinics falling into the low-unit-cost group. Generally, services provided in the community-based mobile clinic had lower unit costs than the same services provided in the hospital dental clinic.
Women's Autonomy in Decision Making for Health Care in South Asia
Authors: Senarath Upul , Nalika Sepali Gunawardena
Published: June 2011

This article aims to discuss women's autonomy in decision making on health care, and its determinants in 3 South Asian countries, using nationally representative surveys. Women's participation either alone or jointly in household decisions on their own health care was considered as an indicator of women's autonomy in decision making. The results revealed that decisions of women's health care were made without their participation in the majority of Nepal (72.7%) and approximately half of Bangladesh (54.3%) and Indian (48.5%) households. In Sri Lanka, decision making for contraceptive use was a collective responsibility in the majority (79.7%). Women's participation in decision making significantly increased with age, education, and number of children. Women who were employed and earned cash had a stronger say in household decision making than women who did not work or worked not for cash. Rural and poor women were less likely to be involved in decision making than urban or rich women.
Acute Malnutrition in Bangladeshi Children
Authors: Rahman Azizur , Chowdhury Soma , Hossain Delwar
Published: June 2011

The main purpose of the study was to identify the levels and determinants of acute malnutrition or wasting in Bangladeshi children. A 2-stage stratified random sampling design was used to collect the Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data during November 1999 to March 2000, in which 5333 living children aged 0 to 59 months and their mothers were weighed and measured to obtain their anthropometric data. The prevalence of wasting was assessed by the z scores approach, using the anthropometric criterion of weight-for-height and following the WHO guidelines and cutoff points. Results reveal that the prevalence of severe and moderate wasting were more common among children, and the overall prevalence of acute malnutrition was about 10%, indicating that it is one of the major public health problems in the country. Multivariate analysis showed that mother's BMI and media exposure, child's age and birth size, and respiratory sickness in childhood were significantly associated with both severe and moderate wasting.
Effects of Oral Health Care on Salivary Flow Rate in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ibayashi Haruhisa , Nishiyama Tomohiro , Tanaka Masayuki , Pham Truong-Minh , Yano Junko , Sakai Kazuyo , Kobayashi Atsushi , Yakura Naonori , Matsuda Shinya
Published: June 2011

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of the authors' oral health care program on the stimulated whole salivary flow rate and buffer capacity before and after a 6-month intervention. The authors conducted the intervention study among 25 participants with diabetes. The salivary flow rate and buffer capacity were evaluated before and after this intervention. Overall, the results showed a significant increase in salivary flow rate and no significant change in buffer capacity. Also, it was likely that salivary flow rate significantly increased among patients with more than 20 remaining teeth and patients with well-controlled diabetes. The findings suggest that this program for type 2 diabetes led to an increase in the stimulated whole salivary flow rate.
Strategies to Change Body Shape Among Men and Women Who Attend Fitness Centers
Authors: McCabe Marita P. , James Tegan
Published: June 2011

The current study examined the association between exercise behaviors, disordered eating, and other behaviors to change body shape among fitness center attendees. The participants were 520 adults (245 men, 275 women) who attended fitness centers. Data were gathered using an anonymous questionnaire. Women who attended fitness centers were generally trying to lose weight and improve fitness; men were generally trying to increase their muscles and improve their fitness level. Reasons for exercise predicted the nature of the body change strategies adopted by respondents. Regression analyses demonstrated that exercises performed by people who attend fitness centers are a reflection of whether or not they want to lose weight, increase muscle or improve fitness. All groups were equally likely to engage in health risk behaviors, but the specific nature of these behaviors varied by group. The implications of these findings for health-related messages among people who attend fitness centers are discussed.
Regional Variations in Living Conditions During the North Korean Food Crisis of the 1990s
Authors: Schwekendiek Daniel
Published: June 2011

In the 1990s, North Korea experienced one of the severest famines in modern history. Considering the level of food deprivation during famines in totalitarian states, substantial debate exists over how differently the crisis affected households and regions. Here, the authors investigate regional differences in socioeconomic living conditions by comparing height-for-age z scores (HAZs) of 9934 preschool children living in 11 administrative provinces. Data are based on 2 UN/DPRK anthropometric surveys performed in North Korea representing cohorts born from 1991 to 2002. Through regression of pooled HAZs on a set of province dummies, the authors find that children born in Pyongyang are more healthy, providing evidence that elites residing in the capital seemingly possess comparative advantages in food supply. When controlling for further variables, they find that boys and older children suffered more during the crisis, although cohorts born before the onset of the famine were significantly better-off.
Local Wisdom and Health Promotion: Barrier or Catalyst?
Authors: Demaio Alessandro
Published: June 2011

The respectful, appropriate use of local wisdom (LW) in health promotion increases penetration and longevity of positive behavior change. Collaborations based on mutual respect, flexibility and trust between health program organizers, traditional and local practitioners, and the communities being served are the goal for public health physicians in our modern, globalized world. This meta-analysis reviewed literature from the past 18 years drawn from a wide range of sources. This investigations proposes a grassroots, material shift toward regarding health promotion interventions as partnerships when planning, executing, and evaluating health promotion projects. This holistic approach would be based on the premise that LW is equal to expert opinion. This article endorses the integration of LW at every stage of the health promotion process concluding that it is through empowerment and involvement of local communities, their culture and specific environmental conditions that best-practice health promotion can be achieved.
Effects of Information and Communication Technology on Youth’s Health Knowledge
Authors: Ghorbani Nahid R. , Heidari Rosemarie N.
Published: June 2011

Information technology (IT) has produced a deep impact on human lives, and the most important aspect of its effect is on education and learning. This study was done for the purpose of evaluating the effectiveness of electronic health information on our Web site http://www.teen.hbi.ir in the promotion of health education and in increasing the capabilities of the students in the use of the Internet. This study was performed on the basis of the information obtained from the questionnaires on selected health issues from 649 students from 3 high schools. Information was collected in 2 steps (pretest and posttest). The t test and Leven’s test were used in the statistical analysis of data. Results of the t test showed that educating students through health information Web sites has increased their knowledge by at least 14.5% on environmental health and 48.9% on nutrition and was statistically meaningful in all fields ( P = .000) with the exception of mental health. The fact is that the use of IT has become a part of our society and is perhaps the most promising medium for achieving health promotion initiatives.
Prevalence, Treatment, and Control of Metabolic Risk Factors by BMI Status in Thai Adults: National Health Examination Survey III
Authors: Aekplakorn Wichai
Published: June 2011

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension, diabetes, and high total cholesterol (TC) by BMI categories. Data from the National Health Examination Survey III of Thai adults aged ≥18 years were used. Age and sex-adjusted prevalence and awareness of the 3 risk factors increased with increases in BMI categories. Proportions of awareness of hypertension, diabetes, and high TC were 27.9%, 33.4%, and 13.6%, respectively, in the BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 group. The highest treatment rates of 19.0% for hypertension and 10.1% for high TC were found in the BMI ≥ 30 kg/m 2 group and the highest treatment rate of 33.6% for diabetes in the 25 to 30 kg/m2 BMI group. There were no significant differences in the control rates of these risk factors across BMI groups. Improvement in detection, treatment, and control of these metabolic risk factors in all BMI subgroups is critical.
Prevalence of Work-Related Upper Limbs Symptoms (WRULS) Among Office Workers
Authors: Zairina Abdul Rahman  , Abdul Sallam Atiya
Published: June 2011

An analytical cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the prevalence of work-related upper limbs symptoms (WRULS) among office workers and factors associated with it. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the information. A total of 463 (87.7%) office workers from selected government agencies participated in this study. The mean age of the respondents was 34.1 years (range = 18-55 years). Majority (91.6%) were Malay and female (72.8%), and 58.1% were from clerical group. Mean duration of work was 8.7 years. This study found that prevalence of WRULS was 33.0% (95% CI [confidence interval] = 28.8%, 37.3%). Computer users at work had 2.0 (95% CI = 1.1, 3.4) higher odds ratio of developing WRULS and those who used it for 5 hours and more per day had 7.5 (95% CI = 2.3, 24.2) higher odds ratio of developing WRULS. Hand-intensive hobbies and higher education were also found to be associated with WRULS.
Key Quality Aspect: A Fundamental Step for Quality Improvement in a Resource-Poor Setting
Authors: Su Tin Tin , Sax Sylvia
Published: June 2011

The objective of the study is to identify user’s perception of key quality aspects of the hospital and its influence on willingness to pay. The study was conducted in 2001 in Dhading District Hospital, Nepal. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study design using quantitative and qualitative methods: questionnaire exit interview and focus group discussions with inpatients and outpatients, focus group discussion with service providers, and key informant interviews. The research identified attitude, technical and interpersonal skills of health personnel, availability of drugs and services as important quality aspects to be improved. Users were motivated to use this hospital and were ready to pay if they received proper treatment from skilled and communicative staff. This study highlights the importance of identifying the quality factors important to service users as a first step in improving quality. For the users within this study, this meant improving attitude, interpersonal skills, and technical skills of service personnel.
Domestic Violence Against Women: A Qualitative Study in a Rural Community
Authors: Kaur Ravneet , Garg Suneela
Published: June 2011

Domestic violence is a major contributor to physical and mental ill health of women and is evident, to some degree, in every society in the world. The World Health Organization reports that globally 29% to 62% of women have experienced physical or sexual violence by an intimate partner. Ending gender discrimination and all forms of violence against women requires an understanding of the prevailing culture of bias and violence. The present study was conducted in a rural area in India. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among married women in the age group of 18 to 35 years. Physical violence was a major cause of concern among these women. Some women had to suffer even during pregnancy. An alcoholic husband emerged as the main cause for domestic violence. Husbands’ relatives instigating wife beating was also common. Majority of the women preferred to remain silent despite being victimized. The women feared to resort to law because of implications such as social isolation. To address this, all sectors including education, health, legal, and judicial must work in liaison. Gender inequality must be eliminated and equal participation of women in the decision-making and development processes must be ensured.
Stigmatized Attitudes Toward People Living With HIV in Bangladesh: Health Care Workers’ Perspectives
Authors: Mohammad Bellal Hossain  , Kippax Susan
Published: June 2011

This study was conducted among 526 health care workers (HCWs) in Bangladesh to identify the levels and correlates of stigmatized attitudes toward people living with HIV (PLHIV). HIV-related stigmatized attitudes were measured by a set of items that reflected avoidance attitude of HCWs in hypothetical situations. A multiple linear regression model identified the following correlates of stigma: higher age, high level of irrational fear about HIV and AIDS, being HCW other than a doctor, working in teaching hospital, and rating religion as very important in their life ( R2 = .502). The findings are important for both public health policy planners and human rights activists as high prevalence of stigmatized attitudes among HCWs influence the decision-making process of PLHIV and stop them from accessing voluntary counseling and testing, care, support, and treatment services.
Anxiety Prevalence and Affecting Factors Among University Students
Authors: Sakin Ozen Nurdan , Ercan Ilker , Irgil Emel , Sigirli Deniz
Published: June 2011

This study provides insight into the prevalence and correlates of anxiety among university students in Bursa, Turkey. A total of 4850 students participated in the study. Students completed Spielberger’s State—Trait Anxiety Inventory, as well as a questionnaire designed to determine risk factors of anxiety. About 29.6% and 36.7% of the students in the study reported state and trait anxiety scores of more than 45 points, respectively. Controlling for gender and family socioeconomic status, the following characteristics predict both state and trait anxiety: the status of family relationships, difficulty understanding lectures, difficulty adapting to university life, having to solve problems independently, a vision of self-sufficiency in problem solving, negative life experience, and satisfaction with their department of study. The following factors are predictive of only state anxiety: boarding conditions, having a chronic disease, and exam periods. The risk factors for trait anxiety scores include the following: anxiety about the future, preparation for work life, class of study, private relationships, and attitude of the family toward their child. Families, secondary education institutions, and universities should cooperate to eliminate risk factors for anxiety among university students.
Drug Use Among Street Children and Non—Street Children in the Philippines
Authors: Njord Levi , Merrill Ray M. , Njord Rebecca , Lindsay Ryan , Pachano Jeanette D. R.
Published: June 2011

This study characterizes the prevalence of drug use among Filipino street children compared with Filipino non—street children. A cross-sectional survey was administered to 311 street children and 528 non—street children aged 13 to 17 years. Participants were enrolled through 4 nonprofit organizations and 3 high schools located in Manila, Philippines. After adjustment for age and sex, street children with little or no contact with their families were 2.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.7-2.3) times more likely to smoke tobacco, 1.3 (95% CI = 1.2-1.5) times more likely to use alcohol, 36.7 (95% CI = 16.4-82.0) times more likely to use inhalants, and 5.5 (95% CI = 3.6-8.2) times more likely to use illegal drugs than their non—street counterparts. Street children who maintained contact with their families, compared with non—street children, were 8.7 (95% CI = 3.9-19.4) times more likely to use inhalants and 2.8 (95% CI = 1.7-4.6) times more likely to use illegal drugs. There was no significant difference in tobacco or alcohol use between street children who maintained contact with their families and non—street children. All street children were significantly more likely to have been given or sold a drug in the past 30 days and to have received drug education compared with non—street children. Filipino street children are at greater risk of abusing drugs than are non—street children, with street children who do not maintain family contact being at greatest risk.
Family Factors for Child Meal Skipping in Low-Income Families in Korea
Authors: Bae Hwa-ok , Kim Meesook , Hong Soon-Myung
Published: June 2011

The present study proposed to examine whether family factors are associated with child meal skipping in Korea. Family factors were divided into risk factors and protective factors on conceptual and theoretical bases. The sample was obtained from the Survey of Meal Service for Poor Children conducted by the Korea Institute for Health and Social Affairs in 2007. A final sample was composed of 944 children in low-income families who are served by the public meal program. Child meal skipping was positively associated with risk factors and negatively associated with protective factors, as hypothesized. Single-father family, middle or small urban area, presence of caretaker after school, health level of caretaker, caretaker’s concern about child’s diet, and degree of family cohesion significantly predicted child meal skipping. The authors suggest a few implications for practice based on the study findings.
Contraceptive Use: Socioeconomic Correlates and Method Choices in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Mostafa Kamal S.M. , Aynul Islam Md
Published: June 2011

This article investigates socioeconomic correlates of contraceptive use and method choice in rural Bangladesh. To meet the objectives of the study, the authors used nationally representative 2004 Bangladesh Demographic and Health Survey data. The findings indicate that contraceptive prevalence rate among currently married nonpregnant women was 61%. The prevalence of modern methods was 49%. Oral pill and periodic abstinence were the most preferred modern and traditional methods, respectively. Both bivariate and multivariate analyses reveal that women’s age, number of living children, having a male child, women’s education, religion, NGO membership, and place of region are important determinants of contraceptive use and method choices. Findings suggest that discussion between husband and wife on family planning has the most single significant effect on both current contraceptive use (odds ratio [OR] = 4.45; confidence interval [CI] = 3.95-5.01) and modern method preference (OR = 1.57; CI = 1.28-1.93). The doorstep delivery service of modern methods should be strengthened to further increase effective family planning that is required to reduce the total fertility rate in Bangladesh.
Road Traffic Accidents in Dubai, 2002-2008
Authors: Al Marzooqi Ali Hassan , Badi Mohamed , El Jack Aizeldin
Published: June 2011

Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are among the leading causes of mortality in Dubai, and the burden of the problem on the health system is vast. This study aims to explore trends in road traffic accidents and to identify the most common factors associated with RTIs. A cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data for the period from 2002 to 2008. Dubai reported steadily increasing numbers of road traffic injuries, from 2203 in the year 2002 to 3043 in the year 2008, representing a 38% increase. The associated mortality showed the same trend with an overall increase of 54% during the same period. The age distribution of road traffic injuries per 100 000 in the population shows 2 peaks in the age groups 18 to 26 years and 63 to 71 years. The trend of road traffic fatalities is increasing among UAE nationals as well as expatriates. RTIs were found to be more frequent on roads with high speed limits and with the presence of trucks. Further research is needed to identify associated risk factors.
The Dual Nature of Alcohol Use and Abuse in Mongolia: Reflections Through Policy
Authors: Armstrong Sean C. , Tsogtbaatar Byamba
Published: June 2011

Alcohol abuse has become recognized by numerous organizations in Mongolia as one of their primary public health challenges. Despite the crisis of alcohol abuse in Mongolia, the dominance of narcology in shaping the health system’s response has allowed the alcohol industry to control the debate. The Mongolian population largely interprets the World Health Organization’s (WHO) “standard drink” as a consumption guideline rather than a measure of abuse. In addition, the focus on high levels of dependence, as defined by narcology, has allowed the WHO to officially write off the problem, stating that less than 1% of the adult population can be categorized as “alcoholics.” As the government focuses on new policy-based approaches to the issue, the rhetoric undermines participation and support, while the industry finds new ways to learn from narcology in their efforts to grow. However, by reinvesting profits from alcohol and a public health—focused approach, solutions can be found.
Cancer in the Global Health Era: Opportunities for the Middle East and Asia
Authors: Dey Subhojit , Soliman Amr S.
Published: June 2011

The global burden of cancer is rising with almost 70% of cancer cases being in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).The Middle East and Asia have two thirds of the world’s population and the largest regional concentration of LMICs. Because of massive demographic and epidemiologic transitions, cancer mortality is projected to increase substantially in these populations. Lung cancer among men and breast cancer among women are the most prominent cancer sites in both the Middle East and Asia. Enhanced tobacco control and managing obesity are the most important measures for effective control of most cancers. However, detailed research is required within each population to best identify risk factors and to develop evidence-based methods for cancer prevention. International collaborations are an essential step in facilitating this process, because it can improve cancer registries, create robust infrastructure, improve skills of personnel and lead to effective cancer control and prevention.
Backsliding Against Malnutrition
Authors: Harrison Gail G. , Tirado M. Christina , Galal Osman M.
Published: June 2011

The Millennium Development Goals stated an ambition to cut severe poverty and hunger in half by the year 2015. The recent rise in staple food prices and global economic crisis make it clear that these goals will not be met and that recent gains in mitigating malnutrition are being erased. The number of malnourished people has increased to more than 1 billion, from ~800 million a few years ago. National responses have included restrictions on food exports and a rise in the practice of foreign investment in agriculture to ensure food security on the part of countries with limited land and/or water to feed their own populations. There are critical needs to increase production yet again and to protect the interests of the poor. The world’s population will stabilize by mid-century but the quality of that half-century depends on political will, technological capacity, and commitment.
Lessons From the Past: Perspectives on Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
Authors: Koh David , Sng J.
Published: June 2011

On March 12, 2003, the World Health Organization issued a global health alert stating that a new, unrecognizable, flulike disease may spread to health care workers (HCWs). We now know this illness as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). By August 2003, there were 8422 SARS cases and 916 deaths reported from 29 countries. SARS galvanized the world to the threat of emerging infectious diseases and provided a dress rehearsal for subsequent challenges such as H5N1 and H1N1 influenza. Among the insights gained were the following: SARS reminded us that health care work can be hazardous; the effects of SARS extended beyond the infection; general principles for prevention and control were effective against SARS; and SARS posed both a public health and an occupational health threat. Given these perspectives gained, we should be better prepared when faced with similar scenarios in the future.
Importing Health Conditions of Expatriate Workers Into the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Newson-Smith Mark S.
Published: June 2011

There are around 3.5 million workers in the United Arab Emirates, more than 80% of whom are expatriates. Among offshore workers, levels of obesity reflected the relative prevalence of the condition in their home countries and exceeded their respective national averages. Levels of hypertension and diabetes in these groups were lower than the national averages, probably because of the healthy worker effect. The level of obesity probably reflected the sedentary nature of their jobs. The presence of hepatitis C antibodies was almost exclusive to Egyptian workers. In a downstream oil and gas business, the prevalence of obesity also reflected the prevalences in the respective home countries, increasing greatly in existing employees when compared with those attending for preemployment health evaluations. Increases in the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes were also found in this group. One possible explanation is the impact of the changed environment on underlying susceptibility to these conditions.
Project Quit Tobacco International: Laying the Groundwork for Tobacco Cessation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Nichter Mark , Nichter Mimi , Muramoto Myra ,   Project Quit Tobacco International
Published: June 2011

The 3 aims of Project Quit Tobacco International are to design a tobacco curriculum for medical colleges, develop culturally appropriate approaches to clinic and community-based tobacco cessation, and to build tobacco research and training networks within India and Indonesia as a prototype for other countries. This article describes pilot interventions being launched in 10 medical colleges in these 2 countries to (a) integrate tobacco into their 4-year training programs, ( b) establish illness-specific cessation clinics, and (c) involve colleges in community outreach efforts to promote smoke-free households. This article reports on lessons learned, challenges faced, and successes realized to date.
Troubled Minds in The Gulf: Mental Health Research in the United Arab Emirates (1989-2008)
Authors: Osman Ossama T. , Afifi M.
Published: June 2011

This article aims to describe the characteristics of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) mental health research published from 1989 to 2008 in PubMed indexed journals to identify gaps and to suggest recommendations. Our sensitive PubMed search for general and mental health publications in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the UAE revealed a total of 192 mental health studies published in GCC countries over the past 20 years, which constituted less than 1% of the GCC total biomedical research. Most of the studies were from the UAE University and were either epidemiologic (48.98%) or psychometric (24.49%) with no studies addressing mental health systems research. Underrepresented were studies on health promotion and interdisciplinary, cross-cultural, ethnic, and gender research. There is a need for more international collaboration and for policies that link research conducted to services provided with longitudinal studies to test the long-term impact of early preventive interventions.