The Medical journal of Australia
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Review Meta Analysis Comparative Study
Suicide in Australia: meta-analysis of rates and methods of suicide between 1988 and 2007.
To examine the changes in rates of methods of suicide in Australian states and territories between 1988 and 2007. ⋯ The decline in rates of suicide in most parts of Australia coincides with a reduction in the availability of lethal methods. Consideration should be given to further measures to limit the availability of lethal methods of suicide.
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To evaluate the evidence for and against the effectiveness of homeopathy. ⋯ The findings of currently available Cochrane reviews of studies of homeopathy do not show that homeopathic medicines have effects beyond placebo.
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To assess the impact of the opening of an after-hours general practice clinic on the number of daily low-urgency presentations to the nearby emergency department. ⋯ An after-hours general practice clinic was associated with a reduction in low-urgency presentations to the emergency department in Wagga Wagga.
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Recent research has confirmed that Australian children and pregnant women are mildly iodine deficient. A considerable proportion of the pregnant population is moderately to severely iodine deficient. Even subclinical hypothyroidism in the mother, occurring as a consequence of iodine deficiency, can cause irreversible brain damage in the fetus, making it essential to avoid iodine deficiency in pregnancy. ⋯ Views differ about the most effective measures to prevent iodine deficiency in Australia. We propose that women planning a pregnancy, and pregnant and lactating women should be advised to take an iodine supplement. Women with pre-existing thyroid disease should exercise caution and seek medical advice before taking a supplement.