Irish journal of medical science
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Injecting drug users are at high risk of acquiring blood-borne infections. Ireland has had a harm reduction policy of methadone maintenance and needle exchange since 1992. ⋯ A standardised written protocol for screening for blood-borne viruses and for immunisation against hepatitis B in methadone service attendees was clearly needed, and was subsequently introduced by the Eastern Region Health Authority.
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Respiratory disease is the major cause of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF). The significance of Burkholderia cepacia (B. cepacia) in the pathogenesis of lung disease in CF is debated, but its exact role remains unclear. ⋯ Acquisition of B. cepacia may be a cause of, rather than a marker for, a decrease in pulmonary function.
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The longterm outlook after Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication in peptic ulcer disease is unclear. ⋯ Despite a low H. pylori recurrence rate, longterm dyspeptic symptoms were common in peptic ulcer patients after H. pylori eradication. The symptoms are mainly reflux in type and require anti-secretory therapy in only a minority of patients.
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There is a paucity of data on the health status of breast cancer survivors. ⋯ The self-perceived health status of breast cancer survivors merits further research in the Irish context. Inclusion of the SF-36 questionnaire as an outcome measure is recommended.
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Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease characterised by low bone density and micro architectural deterioration of bone tissue with a consequent increase in bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. It is a silent disease. It is the result of the negative balance between bone formation and bone resorption, i.e. more bone is lost than is formed. ⋯ Peak bone mass is determined by sex, heredity family history, race, diet and exercise. Sixty per cent of bone growth occurs during adolescence. Moderate exercise protects against osteoporosis, but too little or excessive exercise may cause osteoporosis.