Eastern Mediterranean health journal = La revue de santé de la Méditerranée orientale = al-Majallah al-ṣiḥḥīyah li-sharq al-mutawassiṭ
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Reproductive health has been receiving increasing recognition and attention. Its elements are included as 3 of the 8 Millennium Development Goals adopted by the world government community, and it is considered essential for reaching the other goals. Reproductive health problems still account for a major share of the burden of disease, particularly in women. ⋯ A research component is indispensable. The research community is called upon to enhance the responsiveness and potential impact of its contribution. Ten propositions are submitted.
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East. Mediterr. Health J. · Sep 2005
ReviewManagement of source and drinking-water quality in Pakistan.
Drinking-water quality in both urban and rural areas of Pakistan is not being managed properly. Results of various investigations provide evidence that most of the drinking-water supplies are faecally contaminated. ⋯ This paper presents a detailed review of drinking-water quality in the country and the consequent health impacts. It identifies various factors contributing to poor water quality and proposes key actions required to ensure safe drinking-water supplies to consumers.
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East. Mediterr. Health J. · Nov 2004
ReviewRegional overview of maternal and child malnutrition: trends, interventions and outcomes.
The proportions of underweight, wasted, and stunted children, as well as the infant and under-5 mortality rates, have all exhibited downward trends in the Region over the past 2 decades. This is in part attributable to maternal and child nutrition intervention programmes, especially those in which women were actively involved. Programmes which support and promote breastfeeding, such as the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative, have also contributed to this trend, although the number of baby friendly hospitals varies considerably between countries. ⋯ In several countries of the Region a number of micronutrient deficiency control programmes are in progress, such as iron supplementation for pregnant women, fortification of flour and iodization of salt. Iodine deficiency disorders are under control in 2 countries of the Region and legislation for salt iodization is in place in 17 countries. Prevalence of severe malnutrition in children is much lower than that of milder levels, thus, promotion of the nutrition status of mildly to moderately malnourished children could lead to a sizeable reduction in child mortality.