Journal of women's health
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Journal of women's health · Oct 2008
Health practices and vaginal microbicide acceptability among urban black women.
Intravaginal topical microbicides are being investigated for prevention of HIV transmission. Use of vaginal microbicides will constitute a new type of practice, occurring in the context of other vaginal practices related to contraception, hygiene, and self-care, which are affected by cultural norms and personal beliefs. Given the high rate of HIV infection among black women, research on practices and decision making relevant to microbicide acceptability is needed in this population. ⋯ The majority of women in the sample expressed willingness to use a vaginal product for HIV prevention. Decision-making processes regarding vaginal practices were complex and were affected by social, cultural, and personal factors. Although specific preferences may vary, attitudes toward using a vaginal product are likely to be positive when side effects are minimal and the product is considered safe.
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Journal of women's health · Oct 2008
Heart disease prevention practices among immigrant Vietnamese women.
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death in the United States as well as in many countries around the world, including Vietnam. ⋯ Our findings confirm the need for continued efforts to develop and implement targeted educational campaigns to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease among Vietnamese American women.
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Journal of women's health · Oct 2008
Fibromyalgia: diagnosis and management for the primary healthcare provider.
Fibromyalgia is a disorder of chronic generalized musculoskeletal pain affecting 2% of the general population, with an increased frequency in women. Clinical diagnosis relies on history and research-supported tender point criteria. ⋯ Evidence-supported pharmacological interventions include tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, alpha-2-delta ligands, and other serotonergic-noradrenergic analgesic agents, such as tramadol. This paper offers the primary healthcare provider a systematic approach to the diagnosis of fibromyalgia and management strategies based on available evidence, consensus, and empirical data.