bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Childhood Sexual Abuse and Risk Behaviors Among Men at High Risk for HIV Infection
Authors: DiIorio Colleen , Hartwell Tyler , Hansen Nellie 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined the association between unwanted sexual activity during childhood and risky behaviors among a sample of predominantly African American and Hispanic men.Methods. Data were obtained from baseline interviews completed by 2676 men enrolled in a multisite HIV prevention trial.Results. Approximately 25% of the men reported unwanted or uninvited sexual activity before 13 years of age, with Hispanic men more likely than African American men to report unwanted sexual activity during childhood. Men with a history of unwanted sexual activity during childhood were more likely to report unwanted sexual activity since age 13, the buying and selling of sex, problems with alcohol, and drug use. Men who reported unwanted sexual activity during childhood also reported a significantly greater frequency of unprotected sexual acts and more partners.Conclusions. Among men at high risk for HIV infection, unwanted sexual activity during childhood is more widespread than previously described and can increase the risk of participating in harmful health practices during adulthood, including risky sexual behaviors.
Poverty, Family Process, and the Mental Health of Immigrant Children in Canada
Authors: Beiser Morton , Hou Feng , Hyman Ilene , Tousignant Michel 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined the differential effects of poverty on the mental health of foreign-born children, Canadian-born children of immigrant parents, and children of nonimmigrant parents. Methods. Secondary analysis of data from a national Canadian study of children between 4 and 11 years of age was conducted. Results. Compared with their receiving-society counterparts, foreign-born children were more than twice as likely to live in poor families, but they had lower levels of emotional and behavioral problems. The effect of poverty on children's mental health among long-term immigrant and receiving-society families was indirect and primarily mediated by single-parent status, ineffective parenting, parental depression, and family dysfunction. In comparison, the mental health effect of poverty among foreign-born children could not be explained by the disadvantages that poor families often suffer. Conclusions. Poverty may represent a transient and inevitable part of the resettlement process for new immigrant families. For long-stay immigrant and receiving-society families, however, poverty probably is not part of an unfolding process; instead, it is the nadir of a cycle of disadvantage.
Prevalence of Medication Treatment for Attention Deficit–Hyperactivity Disorder Among Elementary School Children in Johnston County, North Carolina
Authors: Rowland Andrew S. , Umbach David M. , Stallone Lil , Naftel A. Jack , Bohlig E. Michael , Sandler Dale P. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study estimated the prevalence of medication treatment for attention deficit–hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) among elementary school children in a North Carolina county. Methods. Parents of 7333 children in grades 1 through 5 in 17 public elementary schools were asked whether their child had ever been given a diagnosis of ADHD by a psychologist or physician and whether their child was currently taking medication to treat ADHD. Parents of 6099 children (83%) responded. Results. By parental report, 607 children (10%) had been given an ADHD diagnosis and 434 (7%) were receiving ADHD medication treatment. Seventy-one % of the diagnosed children were receiving medication. Treatment rates varied by sex, race/ethnicity, and grade. Conclusions. If treatment patterns observed in this study are representative, the public health impact of ADHD may be underestimated. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:231–234)
Classroom-Based Surveys of Adolescent Risk-Taking Behaviors: Reducing the Bias of Absenteeism
Authors: Guttmacher Sally , Weitzman Beth C. , Kapadia Farzana , Weinberg Sharon L. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This investigation examined the effectiveness of intensive efforts to include frequently absent students in order to reduce bias in classroom-based studies. Methods. Grade 10 students in 13 New York City high schools (n = 2049) completed selfadministered confidential surveys in 4 different phases: a 1-day classroom capture, a 1-day follow-up, and 2 separate 1-week follow-ups. Financial incentives were offered, along with opportunities for out-of-classroom participation. Results. Findings showed that frequently absent students engaged in more risk behaviors than those who were rarely absent. Intensive efforts to locate and survey chronically absent students did not, however, significantly alter estimates of risk behavior. Weighting the data for individual absences marginally improved the estimates. Conclusions. This study showed that intensive efforts to capture absent students in classroom-based investigations are not warranted by the small improvements produced in regard to risk behavior estimates.
Impact of Highly Active Antiretroviral Treatment on HIV Seroincidence Among Men Who Have Sex With Men: San Francisco
Authors: Katz Mitchell H. , Schwarcz Sandra K. , Kellogg Timothy A. , Klausner Jeffrey D. , Dilley James W. , Gibson Steven , McFarland William 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study assessed the countervailing effects on HIV incidence of highly active antiretroviral treatment (HAART) among San Francisco men who have sex with men (MSM). Methods. Behavioral risk was determined on the basis of responses to cross-sectional community interviews. HIV incidence was assessed through application of an enzyme-linked immunoassay testing strategy. Results. Use of HAART among MSM living with AIDS increased from 4% in 1995 to 54% in 1999. The percentage of MSM who reported both unprotected anal intercourse and multiple sexual partners increased from 24% in 1994 to 45% in 1999. The annual HIV incidence rate increased from 2.1% in 1996 to 4.2% in 1999 among MSM who sought anonymous HIV testing, and the rate was high (5.3%) but stable in a blinded survey of MSM seeking sexually transmitted disease services. Conclusions. Any decrease in per contact risk of HIV transmission due to HAART use appears to have been counterbalanced or overwhelmed by increases in the number of unsafe sexual episodes. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:388–394)
No Care for the Caregivers: Declining Health Insurance Coverage for Health Care Personnel and Their Children, 1988–1998
Authors: Case Brady G. S. , Himmelstein David U. , Woolhandler Steffie 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined trends in health insurance coverage for health care workers and their children between 1988 and 1998. Methods. We analyzed data from the annual March supplements of the Current Population Survey (CPS), a Census Bureau survey that collects information about health insurance from a nationally representative sample of noninstitutionalized US residents. Results. Of the health care personnel younger than 65 years, 1.36 million (90% confidence interval [CI] = 1.28 million, 1.45 million) were uninsured in 1998, up 83.4% from 1988; the proportion uninsured rose from 8.4% (90% CI = 7.8%, 9.1%) to 12.2% (90% CI = 11.5%, 12.9%). Declining coverage rates in the growing private-sector health care workforce—and declining health employment in the public sector, which provided health insurance benefits to more of its workers—accounted for the increases. Households with a health care worker included 1.12 million (90% CI = 1.05 million, 1.20 million) uninsured children, accounting for 10.1% (90% CI = 9.5%, 10.8%) of all uninsured children in the United States. Conclusions. Health care personnel are losing health insurance coverage more rapidly than are other workers. Increasingly, the health care sector is consigning its own workers and their children to the ranks of the uninsured.
Effect of Racial/Ethnic Misclassification of American Indians and Alaskan Natives on Washington State Death Certificates, 1989–1997
Authors: Stehr-Green Paul , Bettles James , Robertson L. Dee 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined effects of racial/ethnic misclassification of American Indians and Alaskan natives on Washington State death certificates. Methods. Probabilistic record linkage were used to match the 1989–1997 state death files to the Northwest Tribal Registry. Results. We identified matches for 2819 decedents, including 414 (14.7%) who had been misclassified as non–American Indians and Alaskan natives on the death certificates. The likelihood of being correctly classified increased 3-fold for each higher level of American Indian and Alaskan native ancestry (odds ratio = 2.88; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.51, 3.30) and decreased by 6.9% per calendar year (95% CI = 2.0, 11.5). Conclusions. Systematic biases on death certificates in Washington State persist. Methods to reduce misclassification can improve data quality and enhance efforts to measure and reduce racial/ethnic health disparities. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:443–444)
Moving Forward: Addressing the Health of Asian American and Pacific Islander Women
Authors: Ro Marguerite 
Published: December 2008

Little is known about the health of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) women, a rapidly growing population marked by diverse sociodemographic characteristics, health needs, and access to and use of health services. This commentary provides broad recommendations for research, program development, and policy development based on the first-ever White House Initiative report on AAPIs. These recommendations address the issues of data, access, civil rights, community capacity, and the need to recognize ethnic subgroups among the AAPI population. Reflecting on the events of the past year, the recommendations provide direction for public health to address the health and well-being of AAPI women.
Intimate Partner Violence and Women of Color: A Call for Innovations
Authors: Lee Roberta K. , Thompson Vetta L. Sanders , Mechanic Mindy B. 
Published: December 2008

In this commentary, we focus on violence against women of color. Although African American women experience higher rates of intimate partner homicide than White women, the cumulative rates for nonfatal intimate partner violence are similar and do not vary between urban and rural locations (though access to services may vary by location). Much of the research about intimate partner violence is based on women with low socioeconomic status and on interventions that were developed by and for White women. Current primary prevention strategies focus on violence that is perpetrated by strangers rather than their primary perpetrators—intimate partners. We recommend the development and rigorous evaluation of prevention strategies that incorporate the views of women of color and attention to primary prevention.
Impact of Breast Cancer on African American Women: Priority Areas for Research in the Next Decade
Authors: Jones Lovell A. , Chilton Janice A. 
Published: December 2008

Despite all the gains that have been made in the area of breast cancer research, African American women suffer disproportionately from the effects of the disease. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among African American women, exceeded only by lung cancer. Improvements in cancer incidence, mortality, and survival rates among populations are undoubtedly the outcome of quality research. Therefore, there is a need to identify and discuss issues regarding breast cancer among African American women and to determine whether these issues should be a part of the nation's breast cancer research agenda. This commentary summarizes the results of the Summit Meeting Evaluating Research on Breast Cancer in African American Women, which was held September 8–11, 2000, in Washington, DC. Listed are priority areas and some of the questions that fueled this 2-day discussion among 130 participants, including health advocates, cancer survivors, and experts representing various areas of cancer research.
Cardiovascular Disease Among Women Residing in Rural America: Epidemiology, Explanations, and Challenges
Authors: Taylor Herman A. , Hughes Gail D. , Garrison Robert J. 
Published: December 2008

Many believe that the United States has entered a “Golden Age” of cardiovascular health and medicine. Pharmacological and technological advances have indeed produced an era of declining mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases for the nation as a whole. However, there remain areas of challenge. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is still by far the leading cause of death and disability in the United States, and it is the leading killer of US women. Perhaps the single most notable feature of the CVD epidemic in the United States is the substantial difference in morbidity and mortality that exists between White women and women of color, with a disproportionate share of suffering borne by minority women. Unexplained regional variations also cloud the otherwise notable progress of the last 30 years, and many rural areas appear to be uniquely affected by cardiovascular disease. This commentary reviews the evidence that the CVD epidemic disproportionately burdens women of color who reside in rural areas, itemizes and provides a logical framework for explaining this burden, and suggests approaches to solving this vexing public health problem.
Heterogeneity of Health Disparities Among African American, Hispanic, and Asian American Women: Unrecognized Influences of Sexual Orientation
Authors: Mays Vickie M. , Yancey Antronette K. , Cochran Susan D. , Weber Mark , Fielding Jonathan E. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study compared health indicators among self-identified lesbians/bisexual women and heterosexual women residing in Los Angeles County. Methods. Respondents were English-speaking Hispanic, African American, and Asian American women. Health status, behavioral risks, access barriers, and indicators of health care were assessed. Results. Prevalence rates of chronic health conditions were similar among women in the 3 racial/ethnic groups. However, lesbians and bisexual women evidenced higher behavioral risks and lower rates of preventive care than heterosexual women. Conclusions. Among racial/ethnic minority women, minority sexual orientation is associated with increased health risks. The effects of sexual minority status need to be considered in addressing health disparities affecting this population.
Early Adult Characteristics and Mortality Among Inner-City African American Women
Authors: Astone Nan Marie , Ensminger Margaret , Juon Hee Soon 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined predictors of longevity in a cohort of inner-city African American women. Methods. Data were derived from a cohort study of inner-city African American mothers whose median age in 1966 was 31 years. Analyses involved single-decrement life tables and pooled logistic regression. Results. Giving birth for the first time before age 25 and having at least a high school education predicted longevity in this sample. Effects of later age at first delivery in terms of mortality risk were stronger after 55 years and, especially, after 70 years. Conclusions. The findings offer support for Geronimus's weathering hypothesis. Predictors of longevity among African Americans may be distinct from predictors for the population as a whole.
McKeown and the Idea That Social Conditions Are Fundamental Causes of Disease
Authors: Link Bruce G. , Phelan Jo C. 
Published: December 2008

In an accompanying commentary, Colgrove indicates that McKeown's thesis—that dramatic reductions in mortality over the past 2 centuries were due to improved socioeconomic conditions rather than to medical or public health interventions—has been “overturned” and his theory “discredited.” McKeown sought to explain a very prominent trend in population health and did so with a strong emphasis on the importance of basic social and economic conditions. If Colgrove is right about the McKeown thesis, social epidemiology is left with a gaping hole in its explanatory repertoire and a challenge to a cherished principle about the importance of social factors in health. We return to the trend McKeown focused upon—post-McKeown and post-Colgrove—to indicate how and why social conditions must continue to be seen as fundamental causes of disease.
Heat Wave Morbidity and Mortality, Milwaukee, Wis, 1999 vs 1995: An Improved Response?
Authors: Weisskopf Marc G. , Anderson Henry A. , Foldy Seth , Hanrahan Lawrence P. , Blair Kathleen , Török Thomas J. , Rumm Peter D. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study examined whether differences in heat alone, as opposed to public health interventions or other factors, accounted for the reduction in heat-related deaths and paramedic emergency medical service (EMS) runs between 1995 and 1999 during 2 heat waves occurring in Milwaukee, Wis. Methods. Two previously described prediction models were adapted to compare expected and observed heat-related morbidity and mortality in 1999 based on the city's 1995 experience. Results. Both models showed that heat-related deaths and EMS runs in 1999 were at least 49% lower than levels predicted by the 1995 relation between heat and heat-related deaths or EMS runs. Conclusions. Reductions in heat-related morbidity and mortality in 1999 were not attributable to differences in heat levels alone. Changes in public health preparedness and response may also have contributed to these reductions.
Trends in Mortality Due to Legal Intervention in the United States, 1979 Through 1997
Authors: Sikora Andrew G. , Mulvihill Michael 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This report identifies trends in the number and rate of deaths due to law enforcement actions (International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, category “legal intervention”) in the United States. Methods. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Compressed Mortality File was used to determine age-, race-, and sex-specific death rates due to legal intervention for the years 1979 through 1997. Results. Males account for nearly all deaths, with the death rate for Black males several times that of White males. For both Whites and Blacks, the highest rates of death were observed for ages 20 to 34. Death rates declined significantly from 1979 to 1988 and remained stable thereafter. Conclusions. While legal intervention is an uncommon cause of death, some subpopulations experience rates of death many times that of the US population as a whole.
Overweight Status and Eating Patterns Among Adolescents: Where Do Youths Stand in Comparison With the Healthy People 2010 Objectives?
Authors: Neumark-Sztainer Dianne , Story Mary , Hannan Peter J. , Croll Jillian 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study determined the prevalence of Minnesota urban youths reaching the Healthy People 2010 objectives for obesity and intake of fat, calcium, fruits, vegetables, and grains and compared prevalence rates across sociodemographic characteristics. Methods. The study sample included 4746 adolescents (aged 11–18 years) from the Minneapolis/St. Paul area who completed dietary surveys and participated in anthropometric measurements as part of a school-based population study. Results. Considerable gaps were seen between the existing prevalence rates for obesity and nutrient and food patterns and the targeted Healthy People 2010 prevalence rates. For example, 12.5% of the girls and 16.6% of the boys had body mass index values at or greater than the 95th percentile (target = 5%). Only 29.5% of the girls and 42.5% of the boys were meeting the daily recommended intakes for calcium (target = 75%). Similarly, percentages of youths consuming the recommended amounts of fat, fruits, vegetables, and grains were lower than the targeted percentages. There were large sociodemographic disparities in obesity and eating patterns, particularly across race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status. Conclusions. Concerted public health efforts are needed to achieve the Healthy People 2010 objectives for obesity and nutrition and to reduce racial/ethnic and socioeconomic disparities.
Why and How the Tobacco Industry Sells Cigarettes to Young Adults: Evidence From Industry Documents
Authors: Ling Pamela M. , Glantz Stanton A. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. To improve tobacco control campaigns, we analyzed tobacco industry strategies that encourage young adults (aged 18 to 24) to smoke. Methods. Initial searches of tobacco industry documents with keywords (e.g., “young adult”) were extended by using names, locations, and dates. Results. Approximately 200 relevant documents were found. Transitions from experimentation to addiction, with adult levels of cigarette consumption, may take years. Tobacco marketing solidifies addiction among young adults. Cigarette advertisements encourage regular smoking and increased consumption by integrating smoking into activities and places where young adults' lives change (e.g., leaving home, college, jobs, the military, bars). Conclusions. Tobacco control efforts should include both adults and youths. Life changes are also opportunities to stop occasional smokers' progress to addiction. Clean air policies in workplaces, the military, bars, colleges, and homes can combat tobacco marketing. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:908–916)
Tobacco Industry Youth Smoking Prevention Programs: Protecting the Industry and Hurting Tobacco Control
Authors: Landman Anne , Ling Pamela M. , Glantz Stanton A. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This report describes the history, true goals, and effects of tobacco industry–sponsored youth smoking prevention programs. Methods. We analyzed previously-secret tobacco industry documents. Results. The industry started these programs in the 1980s to forestall legislation that would restrict industry activities. Industry programs portray smoking as an adult choice and fail to discuss how tobacco advertising promotes smoking or the health dangers of smoking. The industry has used these programs to fight taxes, clean-indoor-air laws, and marketing restrictions worldwide. There is no evidence that these programs decrease smoking among youths. Conclusions. Tobacco industry youth programs do more harm than good for tobacco control. The tobacco industry should not be allowed to run or directly fund youth smoking prevention programs.
Do Sex and Ethnic Differences in Smoking Initiation Mask Similarities in Cessation Behavior?
Authors: McGrady Gene A. , Pederson Linda L. 
Published: December 2008

Objectives. This study compared success in smoking cessation by sex, ethnic status, and birth cohort. Methods. African and European American respondents to the 1996 Current Population Survey (tobacco supplement) and the 1987 National Health Interview Survey (cancer control and cancer epidemiology supplements) constituted the study population. Elapsed time from smoking initiation to cessation was compared via nonparametric tests and survival analysis techniques. Results. Findings showed that success in quitting was independent of ethnic status and sex and that population differences in smoking initiation age (assuming no differences in quitting behavior) could produce statistical associations between sex/ethnicity and smoking cessation. Conclusions. Population differences in smoking initiation patterns can mask similarities in cessation rates. (Am J Public Health. 2002;92:961–965)