bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Information Needs of Patients and Visitors in a District General Hospital
Authors: Philipp Robin , Hughes Anthony , Wood Neil , Burns-Cox Chris , Cook Nicola , Fletcher Gillian
Published: September 2007

ASURVEY of the information needs of patients and visitors to a large District General Hospital was conducted during a one-month period in 1988 to identify sources of information used by patients and their visitors, whether these sources were per ceived as adequate and what improvements were suggested. The findings indicate that of 406 res pondents, 37% had wanted to know more about a particular condition within the preceding 12 months. The most frequently used sources of information were general practitioners, hospital doctors and nurses, and written material. The most frequent inquiries were about disease aetiology and prevention, and the treatment and prognosis of a wide range of medical conditions. Thirty-six per cent of the inquirers had received little or none of the information that they sought. Visitors were more likely than patients to be dissatisfied with presently available sources of informa tion, and patients over 60 years old were more likely to be satisfied than younger groups. Dissatisfied persons were most often seeking improved access to doctors and nurses, more explanations from these staff, and more readily available booklets and leaflets. The results are discussed in relation to previous findings with hospital in-patients. They support a stated need in the recent Government White Paper, Working For Patients, for patient information leaflets and for clear and sensitive explanations about what is happening to them in hospital.
Comparison of Phenothrin Shampoo and Malathion Lotion in the Treatment of Head Louse Infection
Authors: Kyle D.R.
Published: September 2007

EIGHTY patients (age range 4-10 years) with head lice infection were recruited to the study. Forty patients were treated with a single application of 0.2% w/v phenothrin liquid shampoo and 40 with 0.2% w/v malathion lotion.

Inspection of the patients one week later revealed that no live lice remained in either group, but that two patients had viable eggs in the malathion lotion group.

Re-inspection four weeks after application revealed that five patients of the phenothrin shampoo group and seven of the malathion lotion group had viable eggs. Live lice were not seen to be present in either treatment group.

The results indicate that both products are effective in the treatment of head lice infection and that the phenothrin shampoo would be a useful addition to the insecticides currently employed.
Soak-away Systems and Possible Groundwater Pollution Problems in Developing Countries
Authors: Olanrewaju Dapo
Published: September 2007

PEOPLE in the developing countries do not have adequate sanitation and everyone defaecates somewhere. Those who do not have a toilet or latrine have to resort to indiscriminate defaecation either in the sea shore such as in the Lagos lagoon in Nigeria, or vacant plots and open drains as in Iddo area of Lagos and sides of rural footpaths. Water closets (W.C.s) are the most accepted sanitation system, but the cost of operating and maintaining them is high. As a result sewerage is not appropriate for the majority of people in developing countries whose greater popu lation live in rural areas and small towns. The majority of people in urban areas use septic tanks and very often most of these septic tanks are not properly designed or sometimes located too close to sources of water supply, which then become contaminated. It is generally believed that systems like septic tanks, pit latrines and aqua privies are capable of totally eliminating these pathogens. There are many problems associated with the physical, chemical and biological processes that may result in groundwater pollution from septic tanks. Many experiments have shown that faecal organisms do not travel any significant distance radially as a result of concentration gradient. They are, however, carried with groundwater flow. The task is to prevent pathogens from getting into the aquifer. This paper attempts to highlight the ability of some enteric viruses to survive septic tank wastewater treatment.
Children of Divorce
Authors: Leung Alexander K.C. , Robson Lane M.
Published: September 2007

DIVORCE IS a stressful experience for children. The disruption of the home is associated with significant emotional, financial, and social costs. Children often react to divorce with emotional res ponses typically associated with death. Divorce may be perceived as the death of an established family unit. Denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance are often part of the emotional evolution of a child experiencing the divorce of the parents. The grieving process may last months or years and in some children may never end. The exact nature of the response is influenced by the age and the developmental level of the child. Most children are able to overcome the initial trauma of parental divorce and resume normal development and function. Some children, however, experience severe depression or anxiety and are left with an emotional scar for the rest of their lives. The adverse impact of a divorce can be minimised by a realistic and sensitive understanding of the effects on children. Parents can help at the time of divorce by preparing their children for what is about to happen. The preparation should be appropriate for the age and the developmental level ot the child. Parents should demonstrate a strong commitment to their children. Children cope better with divorce if the parents co-operate with each other and adopt an attitude of 'together for our child while separate for us'.
Music: Some Influences on Health
Authors: Reaks Brian
Published: September 2007

MUSIC: SOME influences of health. The impact of ideas conveyed by music: examples of its utilization in past years — the development of music therapy in the 20th century: growing interest in Britain; the establishment of training courses for music therapists. — Music in medical practitioners' waiting rooms; the choice of suitable music — the dangers of ident pop music: perceptive deafness and other dangerous consequences — some advantages of listen ing to music of merit; special benefits to patients with terminal diseases.
Sexuality and Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Older Men Attending the Genito-Urinary Clinic in Birmingham
Authors: Opaneye A.A.
Published: September 2007

EIGHTY-SEVEN men aged 60 years and over who attended the sole genito-urinary clinic in Birmingham during the year 1989 had their records reviewed. Sixty-five (75%) were sexually active and the most frequent complaints were penile soreness and urethral discharge. Nineteen patients had positive serological tests for syphilis (TPHA) and two men, both homosexuals, had positive hepatitis (HBA2) serology. In this age group, compared to a Caucasian, an Afro-Caribbean man had an Odds Ratio of 4.68 of having a positive serological test for syphilis. Two patients had psychosexual problems and one genital ulcer was squamous cell carcinoma of the penis. The men with multiple sexual partners were more likely to have a past history of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) (p<0.05).
Food Consumption Patterns of Mothers in Oman (A Preliminary Study)
Authors: Musaiger Abdulrahman O.
Published: September 2007

FOOD INTAKES of 157 mothers from four geographical regions in Oman were studied. Rice and wheat breads were the main cereals con sumed. Fish was daily consumed by 26% of mothers, whereas meat and chicken were consumed less often. Cow's milk was more frequently consumed than goat's milk. Of mothers, 63% drank carbonated beverages daily, while the traditional drink, laban (butter-milk) was drunk daily by 47% of mothers. Only 19.8% of mothers did not or rarely consumed animal fat. These results suggest that dietary habits of Omani mothers have changed and become more diversified when compared to diet consumed 20 years ago.
Strategic aspects of insecticide resistance in head lice
Authors: Maunder John W.
Published: September 2007

THE CONTINUED undisciplined use of medical insecticides without due regard to underlying principles may soon lead to severe problems with insecticide resistance.
Geriatric Health Promotion Goals for the Year 2000 in the United States
Authors: Moore Steven R.
Published: September 2007

THE UNITED States undertakes the development of health objectives for 10-year cycles, covering the full range of federal health care delivery and policy. The goals for the cycle ending in the year 2000 have recently been announced.
First Aid and First Aiders who work in Health Food, Processing a>nd Light Engineering in Nottingham
Authors: Foulis W. , Mayberry J.F. , Doran J.
Published: September 2007

ONE HUNDRED and forty nine first aiders working in a health authority, 26 in a light engineering company and 35 in food processing plants completed an anonymous questionnaire about their training and first aid work. Information was also gathered on views about its value, the role of cash bonuses and its promotion amongst other staff. The response rate was 88%. The majority of first aiders were in their 30s and had practised first aid for less than a decade. At least 80% intended to revalidate their certificate and continue to practise. First aid was used most in food processing plants and least in the health authority. Offers of help had seldom been refused. Over 90% of respondents thought first aid was worthwhile.
The Occupational Exposure Level of 1, 2-Dichloroethane in an EM Preparation laboratory
Authors: Li K.M. , Cheng W.T.
Published: September 2007

The toxicity of 1, 2-Dichloroethane, DCE, toxicity was measured in an Electron-Microscopy (EM) preparation laboratory by Gas Chromatography. Although the personal exposure of the worker to DCE has not exceeded the occupational exposure limits, the exposure level was quite close to the short-term exposure limit. Owing to the carcinogenic potential and low exposure limits of DCE, it is suggested that a closed controlled-environment would be useful in reducing the exposure level of DCE.
Combating Protein-Energy-Malnutrition in a Rural/ Peri-Urban Southern African Black Population
Authors: Macintyre Una E. , Bac Martin , Kuzwayo Pauline M.N. , Glatthaar Ingrid I. , Ingle Ronald F. , Walker Alexander R.P.
Published: September 2007

ROTEIN-ENERGY-malnutrition (PEM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in young children in Africa. In South Africa, in 1987, to help combating and preventing PEM in the rural black population, the Gold Fields Nutrition Unit was inaugu rated at the Medical University of Southern Africa. In 1987-9, 442 patients (rural/peri-urban) plus their mothers or child carers were admitted, and 406 attended as outpatients. Average age was 15.4 ± 7.6 months, weight 7.0 ± 1.6kg, stay in hospital, 12 ± 10.8 days, and daily weight gain during treatment was 31 ± 48g. Mothers mainly were young and unmarried. Primary causative factors were infections, ignorance, and insufficiency of food. Since results from rehabili tation are usually poor, mothers and carers were taught how best to prepare meals using local foodstuffs. The interventions included teaching and demonstrations of how to grow vegetables, maintain an orchard, a fowl-run, and improve kitchen and laundry facilities. In 1990, in a follow-up of 73 patients, no deaths had occurred within a 12 month period. This far better than usual outcome is being furthered by setting up satellite nutrition clinics.
Crohn's Disease & Aflatoxins
Authors: Roy Rajat N. , Russell R.I.
Published: September 2007

An investigation to examine the relationship between Crohn's disease and aflatoxins, a group of structurally related toxic and carcinogenic metabolites, was carried out on 24 patients. Extracts of serum and urine from the patients were assayed qualitatively by thin layer chromatography and the Aflatest method, and quantitatively by fluorimetry. There was evidence that some patients suffering from Crohn's Disease, together with some having coeliac disease and ulcerative colitis, did have varying amounts of aflatoxins in their serum and urine. The presence of aflatoxins may have been due to exposure to food containing these toxins or inability of the patient to excrete aflatoxins on account of some gastro-intestinal derangement. Only long-term investigation would establish the link between dietary history and the presence of aflatoxins in these patients.
Building Materials and Environmental Health: Radon in Hong Kong
Authors: Yu K.N.
Published: September 2007

The origin and health effect of radon are first identified. In Hong Kong, the main contribution to the indoor radon concentration comes from building materials. The relatively high radium content in building materials used in Hong Kong explains the high indoor radon concentrations measured. Using risk analysis and established data, radon induced lung cancer deaths have been estimated and remedial measures have been recommended. The variations with age of building and type of ventilation are stated to be additional controlling factors. The possible effects of radon solubility in water are also explored.
Nutritional and Non-Nutritional Factors for 'Healthy' Longevity
Authors: Walker A.R.P. , Walker B.F.
Published: September 2007

The far-reaching effects of the ageing of populations is being increasingly appreciated. Lengthening longevity, associated with decreasing family size, evokes rising charges, socio-economically, and on health services. Information on these and other parameters is presented for developed and developing populations. Examples are given, with lessons to be learned, of long-living segments of populations, past and present. The roles of diet, physical activity, and smoking and alcohol consumption also of attitudes, are discussed. It is concluded that if the middle-aged and elderly could be persuaded to follow long-term practices associated with good public health, then morbidity could be compressed, and disability-free years extended. However, this goal could only be achieved with a high level of motivation.
Hull Healthline: A Description of a Telephone Health Information and Promotion Service
Authors: Geddes Lesley , Watt Ian
Published: September 2007

The development and use of a telephone health information service, Hull Healthline, is described. The local circumstances which make the Hull service different from, and it is argued more effective than, national schemes are detailed. The relevance of such a service to a health promotion strategy is discussed.
Knowledge About HIV and Views About HIV Testing Among Students at an Inner London University
Authors: Gommon Natalie , Bor Robert
Published: September 2007

Undergraduate students at an inner London university were surveyed at the beginning of 1992 about their basic knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS, HIV transmission and views about the HIV antibody test. Although they demonstrated good knowl edge about HIV/AIDS and routes of transmission, a proportion had had unprotected intercourse, but were deterred from seeking an HIV test for a number of reasons. Implications for promoting safer sex and increasing awareness about HIV testing sites on university campuses are discussed.
Early Childhood Mortality - A Rural Study
Authors: Khalique Najam , Sinha S.N. , Yunus Mohammad , Malik Ashraf
Published: September 2007

The present study was conducted in 9 villages of Rural Health Training Centre, Jawan, Aligarh, India, having 1792 regis tered families. The infant mortality rate was 79.3 per 1000 live births. Higher mortality in children between 1-2 years (29.6/ 1000) in comparison to 2-5 years (16.2/1000) reflected the higher vulnerability of children below 2 years. Diarrhoea (21.2%) and neonatal factors (21.2%) were the major cause of infant mortality followed by pneumonia (18.2%) and tetanus (15.1 %). Diarrhoea (32.2%), pneumonia (22.6%) and malnu trition (12.9%) were the major killers in children between 1- 5 years. Mortality in females was higher than males in infancy. Risk factors associated with infant mortality included extremes of maternal age (<20 + > 35 years) primipara or multipara and illiterate mothers.
The New US Health Care Plan of 1993 and its Terminology
Authors: Wilson C. Nick
Published: September 2007

The Clinton Administration is moving toward a fundamental change in the United States health care system. President Bill Clinton made the issue of health care reform one of his top campaign priorities and promised to introduce a reform pro posal for consideration in 1993. To that end, he asked his wife, Hillary Clinton, to lead the newly established Health Care Reform Task Force as it develops alternatives and the plan for health reform as promised to be introduced in 1993. While some uncertainty exists regarding how President Clinton will differ from candidate Clinton, current indications are that the health care reform will be somewhere between 'incre mental reform' which the opposition Republican Party favours, and the 'Single Payor/Canadian Style' approaches under which the federal government would take over most responsibilities now carried out by private health insurance companies.

The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the health reform plan, and to present the specialised terminology that is growing from the health reform initiatives.
Smoking Habits Among Physicians in Two Gulf Countries
Authors: Bener A. , Gomes J. , Anderson J.A.D.
Published: September 2007

The smoking habit of physicians in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait were studied as first step towards surveying the habit among medical professionals. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Kuwait between January-June 1990. Out of the 300 physicians who were contacted 252 (84%) completed the questionnaires, 190 (75%) were males and 62 (25%) were females. Among male physicians, current smokers were 86 (45.3%), ex-smokers were 34 (17.9%) and non- smokers were 70 (36.8%), while among the female physicians 10 (16%) were smokers and 52 (84%) were non-smokers.

Also, a cross-sectional study was conducted between De cember 1991-November 1992 to identify the extent of smok ing among physicians in UAE. Of the 300 physicians, 275 (91.6%) responded, 214 (77.8%) were males and 61 (22.2%) were females. Among the males, current smokers were 94 (43.9%), ex-smokers were 32 (14.9%) and non-smokers were 88 (41.2%), while among the females 5 (8.2%) were smokers, 3 (4.9%) were ex-smokers and 53 (86.9%) were non-smokers. Most important factors responsible for non-smoking doctors for not taking up smoking were: 'Protection of health', 'Self- discipline' and 'To set a good example to others'. The majority of physicians in UAE (91.3%) and Kuwait (75.6%) strongly agreed that smoking is hazardous to health. The results revealed that less than 50% of physicians provide information to over 70% of smoking patients.

The majority of physicians and health professionals were aware of association between smoking and various diseases. The ill- effects of tobacco smoking particularly as a major cause in relation to lung cancer, chronic bronchitis, coronary artery diseases, pulmonary emphysema, laryngeal cancer were widely and correctly known by all categories of doctors in both Gulf countries, UAE and Kuwait. The options favoured by doctors for preventing smoking included a ban on tobacco advertising, specific health waming on cigarette packs and restriction ofsmoking in public places, particularly hospitals and primary health clinics.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms and Diet of Members of an Irritable Bowel Self-help Group
Authors: Rees Gail A. , Davies G Jill , Parker Mike , Trevan Mike
Published: September 2007

A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 103 members of a self-help group for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and 130 controls, to compare the presence of IBS symptoms. Dietary fibre prescription, compliance and effi cacy were documented in the IBS group. There were significant differences in the frequency of defaecation and number of symptoms present between the two groups. Most of the IBS subjects had been prescribed a high fibre diet but adherence to the diet and symptomatic improve ment were poor. In contrast many IBS sufferers were following a range of diets not prescribed by their doctor. The seriousness of the IBS condition was highlighted by the fact that 8% of the IBS group had retired early due to their condition.
An Innovative Strategy to Promote Oral Health in Schoolchildren
Authors: Entwistle Nigel
Published: September 2007

It is believed that the single most important factor affecting the incidence of dental caries in children is the frequency of exposure of teeth to non-milk extrinsic sugars, particularly sucrose, in the diet. Restricting consumption of sugar- containing snacks and drinks to mealtimes makes a signifi cant contribution to the reduction of dental caries in children and consequent improvement in oral health. Many schools offer children sugar-containing drinks and snacks at break-times although they may give children the option of healthy food choices at mealtimes. Attempts by dentists to persuade schools to change their break-time food and drink policies may be met with moderate success, especially with respect to drinks.

Recently a sugar-free cup drink has been made available to schools in an attractive package and at an attractive price. An innovative campaign to promote sugar-free cup drinks in schools is described. By this campaign a reduction of dental caries' experience in schoolchildren may be achieved. Proposals are made for sugar-free cup drinks to be recog nised as a safe confectionery and to be endorsed with the 'Tooth-friendly Sweets' logo.
Health education models and food hygiene education
Authors: Rennie Denise M.
Published: September 2007

Education of food industry personnel in hygiene matters has been recommended as a means of improving food handling practices and thus the safety of food. Provision has been made within the Food Safety Act 1990 for the making of regulations to specify the nature and extent of such training. There is, however, a lack of documentary evidence of improvements in food hygiene standards which can be directly related to education or training. Evaluations of formal food hygiene education courses have identified increased knowledge levels of course participants and improvements in the relationship between food industry and enforcement personnel. This paper considers the operation of food hygiene train ing in the context of health education theory. Interpretation of this suggests that further evaluation of training is warranted prior to programme development and that behavioural change might be more likely to occur if the settings approach to health promotion were to be adopted in food premises.
Explaining the French paradox
Authors: Burr Michael L
Published: September 2007

The 'French paradox' refers to the very low incidence of and mortality rates from ischaemic heart disease in France despite the fact that saturated fat intakes, serum choles terol, blood pressure and prevalence of smoking are no lower there than elsewhere. To some extent it is due to under-reporting, but this is not the whole explanation. The relative im munity of the French to ischaemic heart disease has been attributed to their high alcohol consumption and to their intake of antioxidant vitamins, both being supplied by wine. The custom of drinking wine with the meal may confer protection against some of the adverse effects of the food.
The role of nicotine in tobacco smoking: implications for tobacco control policy
Authors: Foulds Jonathan , Ghodse A.H.
Published: September 2007

This paper outlines some of the evidence that tobacco smoking is maintained by addiction to nicotine. Smokers often perceive that tobacco helps them cope with stress and aids their mental alertness. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms are one important factor pre venting many smokers from quitting (only about 3% succeed with each unaided quit attempt). A number of policies are suggested to reduce the health consequences of smoking more quickly than at present. These include

(a) banning all tobacco advertising and prosecuting retailers who sell illegally to children, in order to reduce the number of young people becoming addicted,

(b) increasing the real price of tobacco in order to encourage more people to try to stop smoking,

(c) providing specialist smokers' clinics in every large general hospital in order to assist highly motivated but addicted smokers to quit and

(d) increasing the rate at which tobacco manufacturers must reduce permissible tar and carbon monoxide yields, such that in 20 years time only nicotine delivery products which are free of tar and carbon monoxide will be allowed.
Self-reported incidence of accidental exposures to patients' blood and body fluids by resident doctors in Nigeria
Authors: Olubuyide I.O. , Olawuyi F.
Published: September 2007

An anonymous survey of 149 resident doctors was conducted to estimate the ex tent of accidental exposures to blood and body fluids of patients over a one-year period. There was a total of 1142 exposures. Ninety-three percent of respondents reported one or more exposure incident(s).

Analysis of events and procedures leading to accidental exposures revealed that recapping needles was involved in 17%, suturing accounted for 14%, setting up intravenous lines 11%, cuts with scalpel 9% and phlebotomy 9%. Surgical residents had a threefold greater risk of exposure compared with medicine residents. No trend was found for accidental expo sures by level of residency training. Seventy-four percent of the residents used universal precautions 50% or less of the time. Only half of the doctors could recall formal instruction on correct course of action after exposure and 5% of them had as undergraduates hepatitis B vaccine prior to the commencement of venepuncture duties. All but one of the residents' exposures were not reported to the Staff Medical Services Department. The doctor who reported was neither tested for hepatitis B virus or human immunodeficiency virus nor was he properly treated. Only 5 (4.6%) of the contaminating patients were evaluated serologi cally for their status of these viruses.

These data emphasize the need for increased efforts toward improved early and continu ing education, prevention and correct management of accidental exposures to blood or body fluids of patients by resident doctors in Nigeria. No recent study exists that exclusively addresses this problem in doctors in tropical Africa.
A study of nosocomial infection in relation to different host factors in an Indian teaching hospital
Authors: Ganguly P. , Yunus M. , Khan A. , Malik A.
Published: September 2007

Out of a total of 422 patients studied, 164 (38.8%) developed nosocomial infec tion. The rate was higher (41.6%) in males than in females (34.7%). A rising trend of infection was observed with age, maximum (69.6%) being in the above 60 age group. No socomial infection rate was inversely proportional to the socio-economic status of the patient. At the same time some underlying diseases in the patients influenced the rate of infection to a great extent, eg infection rates in patients with anaemia (53.7%), diabetes mellitus (85.2%), hypertension (82.0%) and obesity (51.5%) were much more than in patients with no such underlying disease (17.5%).
Breakfast cereal consumption patterns and nutrient intakes of British schoolchildren
Authors: Gibson S.A. , O'Sullivan K.R.
Published: September 2007

Breakfast cereals are nutrient-dense foods that are also low in fat. They could theoretically contribute to lowering the percentage energy from fat in the diet whilst enhancing the intake of certain nutrients. This project is based on a further analysis of dietary data (seven day weighed intakes) from 2705 British schoolchildren (DoH, 1989) and examines the relationship between breakfast cereal consumption and total daily nutri ent intakes. The children were grouped according to amount of cereal consumed per day (none; less than 20 g; 20—40 g; over 40 g) and results examined for each age group (10-11 and 14-15 years) in boys and girls separately. For the nutrients examined there was a highly significant and graded increase in vitamin and mineral intake with increasing cereal consumption and a simultaneous reduction in energy from fat from 39-40% amongst non- consumers to 36-37% among children consuming a portion of cereal or more per day. Body mass index tended to be lower in the frequent breakfast cereal eaters. In conclusion, children who eat breakfast cereal tend to have more desirable nutrient intakes than those who do not.
Job satisfaction in public health
Authors: Oleckno William A. , Blacconiere Michael J.
Published: September 2007

Five occupational groups of public health workers (health administrators, nur sing personnel, environmental health personnel, other public health workers, and public health support staff) from nine county health departments in the midwestern United States were statistically compared to uncover similarities and differences in job satisfaction/dissat isfaction that might be important in planning effective intervention programmes designed to improve satisfaction on the job. Each participant in the study (n = 602) completed three validated job satisfaction/dissatisfaction instruments: the Job Descriptive Index, the Job in General scale and the Occupational Needs Questionnaire. Several discernable trends in job satisfaction/dissatisfaction were identified among the groups. In general, health administra tors appeared to be more satisfied with their jobs compared to the other groups, especially with regard to the actual work performed. Public health support staff, on the other hand, seemed to be the least satisfied group, particularly with respect to pay. The greatest source of dissatisfaction among all the groups appeared to be the lack of promotional opportuni ties.
Exercise and mental health: a review
Authors: Glenister David
Published: September 2007

With the advent of programmes to raise the level of fitness in the general pop ulation, and alliances between primary health care and community leisure services, the potential of exercise in promoting mental as well as physical health deserves investigation. In contrast to USA and continental Europe, there is a paucity of British research studies systematically exploring the mental health benefits of exercise. The recent rapid growth of exercise prescription among general practitioners presents an opportunity for future research. This review of eleven randomised control trials (RCTs) suggests a causal relation ship between exercise and mental health based upon studies in various settings. The methodological difficulties associated with randomised control trials of psycho-social inter ventions are discussed. The value of future randomised control trials which incorporate examination of perceived acceptability and health economics is indicated.
Condensation and Mould: The Canadian Experience
Authors: Rayner K.F.
Published: September 2007

It has been estimated that up to 20% of the UK housing stock is significantly affected by dampness and associated mould growth. The effects on the health of the occu pants of affected homes are well documented. The recent imposition of VAT at 17.5% on domestic fuel is generally regarded as likely to worsen the problem. However, this deteri orating situation puts me in mind of a recent study tour to Canada where the problem of dampness in housing is being tackled very differently to the United Kingdom.

Are there any lessons to be learnt?
Smoking habit in female students of northwestern Greece: relation to other cardiovascular risk factors
Authors: Elisaf M. , Papanikolaou N. , Letzaris Gr , Siamopoulos K.C.
Published: September 2007

The aims of our study were: (1) to detect the prevalence of cigarette smoking among female students in Northwestern Greece, and (2) to assess the relation of cigarette smoking with other harmful lifestyles (such as alcohol consumption, obesity, type of dietary fat), fasting lipids and blood pressure. A total of 590 female students in the last class of the local senior high schools was studied. Seventy-seven (13%) of the students were smokers. Interestingly, in this cohort of young female students clustering of the smoking habit with dyslipidemia and alcohol use was observed. However, smoking was associated with signif icantly lower levels of blood pressure, as well as with lower mean body weight and body mass index. In conclusion, a considerable though apparently decreasing number of Greek female students are smokers. The smoking habit is strongly associated with dyslipidemia and alcohol consumption in this population.
Obesity among female university students in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Amine E.K. , Samy M.
Published: September 2007

The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of obesity among female students from the United Arab Emirates University.

A sample of 566 students was taken. Body weight and height were measured. The stu dents were interviewed to collect data on age, home Emirate, obesity in childhood, obesi ty among parents, food intake between meals, the consumption of fast foods and physical activity. A student was considered overweight when the body weight was 110-120% of the reference weight of height and was considered obese when the body weight exceeds 120 % of the reference value. The results show that 10.8% of the students were overweight and 30.6% were obese. While the prevalence of obesity increased with age, obesity among stu dents was associated with obesity during childhood, the presence of obesity among one or both parents, food intake between meals and in particular fast foods. Limited physical exer cise and long afternoon napping were important contributors to the development of obesi ty.
Latchkey children
Authors: Leung Alexander K C , Robson Wm Lane M , Cho Helen , Lim Stephen H N
Published: September 2007

Children who are regularly left without adult supervision during a significant portion of the day, referred to as 'latchkey children', are a growing social phenomenon. The main reason for the rising prevalence of latchkey children is the increase in dual income and single parent families. Studies on the effects of the latchkey phenomenon report conflicting results. The potential positive consequences include learning to be independent and responsible. The potential negative consequences include loneliness, boredom, fear, academic under-achievement, drug and alcohol abuse, accidental injury, and impairment of the parent-child relationship. Such wide variations in reported consequences in latchkey children might reflect differences in the maturity of the children and in the parent-child relationships prior to entering the latchkey arrangement. Counselling parents about the problems associated with a latchkey arrangement, referring children to an after- school programme, and teaching children self-help skills might minimise the possibility of negative consequences.
Female circumcision and its health implications
Authors: Ebong R.D.
Published: September 2007

A total of 400 subjects was randomly selected from 40 villages in the Uruan Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State for the study.

The purposes of the study were to:

i. identify the 'established benefits' of female circumcision;

ii. identify the health hazards that accompany the practice; and

iii. create awareness among community members of the ill-effects of the practice.

The study discovered a strong belief in the established benefits and poor appreciation of the health hazards of female circumcision by the participants. Recommendations were made for more efforts in public health education programmes on the ill-effects of the practice. Studies were also recommended to be conducted in other parts of the country to assess the level of awareness on the ill-effects of such an operation and the institution of educational programmes where applicable.
South African communities' perceptions and priorities for well-being
Authors: Beke Andy K. , Kocks Daniel J. , Meyer Amanda , Comm B.
Published: September 2007

Surveys were conducted using a pre-tested questionnaire in 1991 and 1993 in South Africa to find out how the people perceive the government's social responsibility with special reference to the provision of free health care and other determinants of well-being. Provision of jobs for the unemployed and free education were identified to be the main priorities. Free health care ranked as the fifth priority.

The study supports the call for increasing participation of communities in determining and prioritising their needs. It also calls on health care professionals to support the communities by advocating for policies that are directed twoards the perceived needs of the community and to use the present available resources efficiently.
Do the homeless get a fair deal from General Practitioners?
Authors: Wood N. , Wilkinson C. , Kumar A.
Published: September 2007

Many studies have indicated the health status of homeless people to be typically poorer than that of the general population, with various studies indicating a high prevalence of psychiatric illness, drug or alcohol misuse and associated socio-medical problems.

The Bristol Primary Healthcare Project is an agency which was established to provide a local health care service tailored to the needs of people who are homeless. The present study was carried out as part of an evaluation of the service offered locally to homeless people by General Practitioners (GPs). A postal questionnaire survey of 155 general practices within the Avon FHSA area was carried out. Both fundholding and non-fundholding practices were included, within an area including inner city, urban and rural/semi-rural locations. One hundred and seventeen completed questionnaires were returned, providing a response rate of 75%.

Twenty-seven percent of practices would fully register a homeless person who seeks to register at the practice, 24% would treat as immediate and necessary and 33% would treat as a temporary resident. Four percent of fundholding practices surveyed would fully register homeless persons and 55% of inner city practices would do so. Seventy-nine percent of doctors indicated that homeless patients were more difficult to treat than other patients.

The most frequent problems associated with registering homeless persons were perceived to be the associated social problems (90% of respondents agreed), the lack of medical records (88% agreed), the complex health problems (79% agreed) and the associated alcohol or substance misuse (78% agreed).

The study has highlighted a need for government to consider providing incentives to GPs to register homeless people without resulting in adverse effects on their contract targets. The reluctance of some practices to register these patients varied by area and type of practice with doctors at fundholding practices being the most reluctant. There is an identified need for further health education and promotion work and initiatives exemplified by the Bristol Primary Healthcare Project for people who are homeless.
Assessment of the functional status of elderly subjects in Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Mahadi Mohammed A. , Elzubier Ahmed G.
Published: September 2007

A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of elderly subjects aged 65 years and above, resident in Qassim region, in central Saudi Arabia. The sample size was 266 subjects (12%). The study objective was to assess the subjects' functional activities in the form of Activities of Daily Living (ADL) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Wadu, the Muslim tradition of washing before the main five daily prayers was included in the ADL.

The results showed that impairment of ADL, ADL and Wadu, and IADL was observed in 12.4%, 7.9% and 54.4% of subjects. Advancing age and female gender were found to be negatively, while male gender and having an occupation were found to be positively associated with functional activity.
A baseline study of tobacco use among the staff of Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
Authors: Yunus M. , Khan Z.
Published: September 2007

A cross-sectional study of 2,439 university employees and research scholars was carried out using the questionnaire method. The objective was to assess the prevalence and type of tobacco usage and to collect background data for planning health education programmes.

The overall prevalence of tobacco usage was 51.5% among males and 30.3% among females. There were no female smokers, the preferred habit of tobacco usage among women being chewing. The prevalence of smoking among non-teaching staff members was significantly higher. Among females, the prevalence of tobacco chewers was higher in non- teaching staff members. Tobacco usage (both smoking and usage of other forms) rose with age. However, even at 20 - 30 years of age 25.4% of males were addicted to smoking. A majority of 60.6% had smoked for more than 10 years.

Among the staff members (both teaching and non-teaching) the reason for smoking was either to relax or because of addiction, whereas the research scholars smoked to improve their image or for enjoyment/pleasure. The reasons given by users of other forms of tobacco were boredom, to pass the time or for no reason at all.

Among non-users, the majority were aware of the harmful effects of smoking. Family pressure and traditions were also important reasons for not smoking.

The study provides a clear picture of tobacco usage within the University.
Lessons to be learned: a case study approach
Authors: Luthra Yugal K. , Donaldson David
Published: September 2007

The case is presented of a 62 year old doctor with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) who experienced severe nocturnal hypoglycaemia following a total intake for the day of fruit and yoghurt (providing 230 kcal) for breakfast, four pints of beer (providing 540 kcal - which included the energy from 37.0 g carbohydrate) later in the day and an evening meal containing approximately 123 g of carbohydrate (providing 1050 kcal). He had taken insulin, as was his custom, just before breakfast, half-an-hour prior to the evening meal and again two-and-a-half hours afterwards. He felt entirely well when he retired to bed at 2100 h. He awoke later, having dreamt that he was practically immobile - but then found to his horror that the dream was true. He soon realised that he was severely hypoglycaemic and, as he had no glucose immediately available, had no alternative but in some way to attempt the journey to the kitchen where there was non-diet mandarin drink available in tin cans inside a refrigerator. He was able later to recall and, in consequence, describe the whole terrifying experience in great detail, on account of the remarkable preservation of mental clarity. The clinical features of the episode are viewed in terms of the relationships between alcohol intake, carbohydrate ingested and the insulin administered. Exercise was minimal on this day.
Some Peoples' Psychological Experiences of Attending a Sexual Health Clinic and having a Sexually Transmitted Infection
Authors: Holgate H.S. , Longman C.
Published: September 2007

This study considers aspects of the experiences of a group of people attending a sexual health clinic and receiving the diagnosis of a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

The study was conducted in the form of action research using a qualitative approach. Participants consisted of eight attenders at a sexual health clinic who had been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection. Counselling skills and techniques were used through out semi-structured interviews to explore participants' feelings about these issues. Thematic analysis was used to generate themes of importance to the participants.

Some people who had been to a sexual health clinic and received a diagnosis of a sex ually transmitted infection were found to experience feelings of anxiety, stigma and isola tion. This study is of value to all those working in the field of sexual health with an inter est in understanding the issues that are important to the client group.
The Growing Influence of Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) in International Health: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Akukwe C.
Published: September 2007

The growing influence of non governmental organizations (NGOs) in international health is occurring in the face of major challenges and opportunities. These challenges include the continued increases in global poverty status, the growing influence of private-funded health systems, the need for sustainability of external-funded programs, and the clamour for com munity participation in the planning and management of external-funded programs.

Opportunities include the near universal recognition of the indispensable roles of NGOs by bilateral institutions and governments, the current emphasis on global trade by developed countries, and the need to develop political and economic systems that are equi table and promote social development. This article is an overview of these challenges and how these challenges can become excellent opportunities for NGOs to improve the health and social development of target communities in developing countries.
Rises in schoolchildren's anthropometry: what do they signify in developed and developing populations?
Authors: Walker A.R.P. , Walker B.F.
Published: September 2007

Recent reports indicate continuing rises in the height and weight of schoolchildren in both developed and developing populations. Also indicated are increases in the body mass index of children, and of adults, despite all public health warnings to the contrary, as well as personal desires of huge proportions of children, and of adults, to be slim. A little researched question concerns which level of schoolchildren's growth is consistent in later life with least occurrence of degenerative diseases. In developing populations, lack of knowledge prevails regarding the current and future health of the large proportions, and huge numbers, of schoolchildren who, judging from Western anthropometric standards, are categorized as suffering from mild to moderate malnutrition. It is questioned whether greater growth is essentially better. As to the future, in Western and in urban developing populations, attempts to control greater attainment of weight for height in schoolchildren, as well as adults, are unlikely to be rewarding, due to unpopularity of a 'prudent' diet on the one hand, and the still diminishing physical activity on the other. Notwithstanding, educational and other efforts to improve the composition of diets and encourage greater physical activity must be energetically pursued.
The influence of ispaghula husk on bowel habit
Authors: Davies G Jill , Dettmar Peter W , Hoare Roger C
Published: September 2007

Frequency of defaecation, faecal form, straining at the start and end of defaecation, feelings of incomplete evacuation of faeces and urgency of defaecation were recorded in 69 healthy volunteers during three distinct 28-day study phases: pre-treatment, treatment with ispaghula husk and post-treatment. During treatment there was a significant increase (P<0.001) in stool frequency and significant decreases in straining at the start (P<0.001) and end (P<0.001) of defaecation and in feelings of incomplete evacuation (P<0.001). There was evidence of a beneficial residual effect after treatment had stopped. There are indications that ispaghula husk (Fybogel® Orange) is of benefit in relieving constipation symptoms in apparently healthy people.
Lessons to be learned: a case study approach An unusual case of alveloar deposition from swallow ing metallic mercury in an attempt at self-poisoning
Authors: Southgate H John , Ward Anne , Taylor Andrew , Carr Patrick
Published: September 2007

The authors report a case of deliberate self-poisoning in a drug addict who swallowed ele mental mercury: in so doing he inadvertently acquired a permanent diffuse deposition of mercury particles throughout both lung fields. Swallowed mercury should be relatively harmless in small quantity but the high specific gravity and free flowing properties of ele mental mercury allowed it to overcome the normal swallowing pathways — such that some of it passed into the bronchial tree instead of passing harmlessly through the gut. In that site its significant vapour pressure, together with its potential for oxidation to inorganic mer cury - which may, in turn, be absorbed across the alveolar membrane, gives high potential for mercury poisoning.