International journal of epidemiology
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We explored methods to develop uncorrelated variables for epidemiological analysis models. They were used to examine associations between respiratory health outcomes and multiple household risk factors. ⋯ Our study suggests that independent respiratory effects of exposure to indoor air pollution, heating coal smoke, and ETS may exist for the studied children.
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Sulphur mustard (mustard gas), the most widely used chemical agent in the Iran-Iraq war, affects many organs including the skin, the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, and the central nervous system. The aim of this study was to assess the cumulative incidence rate and annual incidence rate of pulmonary complications, and the rate ratio of related factors. ⋯ The estimated risk of pulmonary complications from war exposure to mustard gas increased with age and for soldiers who had not worn masks.
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Similar to the general population in Taiwan, the health of aborigines has steadily improved over the last 30 years, but the gap remains wide, especially in males, despite an infusion of substantial medical resources. The objectives of this study are to quantify the contribution of major causes of death to the gap in life expectancy and to propose initiatives to bridge the health gap between aborigines and the general population. ⋯ Based on the findings of this study, we suggest that future focus should be in the area of primary prevention in order to reduce the incidence of infectious and parasitic diseases, liver cirrhosis, and accidents.
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Morbidity among elderly people has an important influence on their physical functioning and psychological well-being. Evaluation of the morbidity profile and its determinants, which have implications for elderly people, are not available. The objective of this study is to assess morbidity, co-morbidity, and patterns of treatment seeking, and to determine relationship of morbidity with disability, psychological distress, and socio-demographic variables among the elderly population in northern India. ⋯ A high mean number of morbidities (6.1, SD 2.9) was observed. Elderly subjects with higher morbidity had increasing disability and distress. Age, sex, and occupation were important determinants of morbidity. Assessment of the morbidity profile and its determinants will help in the application of interventions, both medical and social, to improve the health status and thus the quality of life of the elderly in Northern India.