Public health
-
Since January 2002, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a number of advisories about the use of antidepressants, including selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These advisories may have influenced the number of SSRI exposures reported to poison control centres. The purpose of this study was to examine time trends in SSRI exposures reported to poison control centres in Texas with respect to the timing of the various advisories. ⋯ The FDA advisory in June 2003 appeared to initiate a decline in paroxetine ingestions, particularly among patients aged <20 years, but did not appear to influence other SSRI ingestions reported to poison control centres in Texas.
-
Evidence suggests that the present and projected global burden of road traffic injuries is borne disproportionately by countries that can least afford to meet the health service, economic and societal challenges. Although the evidence base on which these estimates are made remains somewhat precarious in view of the limited data systems in most low- and middle-income countries, these projections highlight the essential need to address road traffic injuries as a public health priority. ⋯ However, these groups comprise the majority of road traffic victims in low- and middle-income countries, and consequently the majority of road traffic victims globally. Responding appropriately to the disparities in available evidence and prevention efforts is necessary in order to address this global public health crisis comprehensively.
-
To determine the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) associated with various types of tobacco consumption among young patients aged 20-49 years attending a tertiary care cardiac hospital in Bangladesh. ⋯ This study found evidence for an association between various types of tobacco consumption and CHD, particularly for bidi smoking and different types of smokeless tobacco consumption. Policies should be made and implemented to combat bidi smoking and smokeless tobacco consumption, as well as cigarette smoking.
-
To undertake a review of the literature relating to public health planning and interventions at previous summer Olympic and Paralympic Games and other relevant major summer sporting events or mass gatherings, with a focus on official publications and peer-reviewed articles. ⋯ The 2012 Olympic Games will provide an exciting challenge for public health providers and systems. Preparation requires early detailed planning of policies, procedures and on-site health promotion events, in addition to helping to set up the surveillance and monitoring systems that will capture public health activity alongside medical activity. Learning from the literature review will support the identification of critical success factors and help to formulate recommendations that will allow optimal utilization of public health initiatives. All plans require full costings in advance which are supported by internal and external health-related agencies, voluntary organizations and sponsors. A risk assessment should be undertaken as part of the planning process leading to risk management plans for mitigating identified potential risks. All surveillance and monitoring systems, communication, policies and procedures will require full testing prior to commencement of the Games.
-
To present crucial stages of planning and the resources involved in the medical and health care that will address issues affecting the health and safety of all participants in the 2010 World Cup. ⋯ This article offers guidance in planning for the 2010 World Cup health and emergency medical care, emphasizing the need for integration of public health and medical practices. It depicts the span of planning envisioned, the organizational relationships crucial to it, and emphasizes the necessity of an early start.