JAMA : the journal of the American Medical Association
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Prisoners are reported to have a higher suicide rate than the community. We studied suicides in the Maryland prison system to determine the level of risk and risk factors for inmate suicide. There were 37 male inmate suicide deaths between 1979 and 1987 (39.6 suicides per 100,000 male inmates), which is significantly higher than the age- and race-adjusted male suicide rate in the general population of Maryland (22.0 per 100,000). ⋯ The methods of suicide chosen by inmates were hanging (86%), cutting wound (5%), antidepressant overdose (5%), and fall from height (3%). We conclude that inmate suicide represents a significant correctional health and public health problem. Specific implications for prevention of inmate suicide are examined.
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Maternal mortality is one of the great neglected problems of health care in developing countries. The World Health Organization estimates that approximately 500,000 women die each year from pregnancy-related causes, more than 98% of these deaths occurring in the developing world. Maternal mortality rates in developing countries are as much as 100 times higher than those seen in industrialized countries. ⋯ It is suggested that no new or costly technologies are needed; rather that appropriate priority-setting and allocation of needed resources are essential to the solution of the problem. There are few interventions that hold much hope of success at the village level, although antibiotics, ergonovine maleate, and sedatives might be usefully utilized, after appropriate training. Overall, however, networks of maternity care facilities, trained personnel, and means of transport are necessary to provide needed emergency maternity care services.