Lancet
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Malnutrition, the coexistence of both undernutrition and obesity, poses a considerable public health and economic burden worldwide. Globally, undernutrition is the largest cause of death in children younger than 5 years, being responsible for 3·1 million, or approximately 45%, of deaths in this population. Conversely, WHO estimated that, in 2016, 41 million children younger than 5 years were overweight or obese. The global problem of malnutrition can be ascribed to changing dietary and lifestyle habits and to the epidemiological transition of most countries. Developing communities, such as in the Gaza Strip, are thus subject to a double burden of preexisting widespread undernutrition and emerging obesity and chronic diseases. ⋯ None.
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Meningitis is an infection of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is a dangerous condition with potentially serious consequences if misdiagnosed or left untreated. Our study aimed to summarise the clinical and laboratory predictors in patients with acute meningitis at one hospital in the Gaza Strip. ⋯ None.
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Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health problem because of high morbidity and mortality and high costs of treatment. Diabetes is a major risk factor for development and progression of CKD. In this study, we aimed to assess the prevalence of CKD among patients with type 2 diabetes treated in primary health care (PHC) centres in the north area of West Bank, occupied Palestinian territory. ⋯ None.
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Bedouin children living in occupied Palestinian territory are at risk of developing trauma-related pathologies because of chronic exposure to political and military violence. Little is known about psychological wellbeing and life satisfaction in this group of children, or their coping skills and survival skills in adjusting to these conditions. ⋯ None.
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During a multiple-casualty incident, a large casualty caseload adversely affects the quality of care given to patients. From a trauma care perspective, the goal of the hospital emergency department plan is to simultaneously provide severely injured patients with a standard of care that approximates the care given to similar patients under normal conditions. This study highlights the barriers and challenges associated with implementing the emergency plans at the Nasser Medical Complex, Gaza Strip, occupied Palestinian territory, during a multiple-casualty incident, with the aim of facilitating appropriate staff training to address any deficiencies identified. ⋯ None.