W Indian Med J
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A survey of physicians in Jamaica was conducted between March and September, 1993 in order to estimate the level of reporting of HIV and AIDS. A questionnaire was delivered to nearly all of approximately 1,200 physicians practising in Jamaica. Completed questionnaires were received from 418, a response rate of 35%. ⋯ Most (75%) public sector physicians had seen one or more AIDS patients. Sixty-four per cent of these physicians said that all of their AIDS cases were reported, 4% said some, 4% said none and 28% didn't know. Reporting of AIDS cases is better in the public sector than among private physicians.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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The prevalence and socio-biological relations of bacteriuria in Trinidadian pregnant women were investigated. The prevalence of bacteriuria was found to be 16.7% and it was more common in the 30-39 year age group, among parous women, among Negroes, and in patients with a low family income and overcrowded living conditions. ⋯ Only 10% had been previously exposed to sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis, gonorrhea and herpetic genital infections. Because of the serious consequences to mother and foetus, we advocate quantitative urine cultures for all antenatal patients, especially those coming from disadvantaged socio-economic conditions.
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A cross-sectional study was done, focusing on the prevalence of exercise-induced asthma in Jamaica and variables that may account for this rate. No previous study of this nature had been undertaken, and the investigators contend that there is a need to identify children who suffer from this condition but are unaware of it. A sample of 214 students from primary and secondary schools in the Corporate Area were chosen and given questionnaires to complete. ⋯ I. +/- 5.35] was identified which reflected a rate comparable to that recorded in North America. There was a significantly higher prevalence in children of primary school ages, but all other variables considered for significance testing to determine associations between these and the prevalence of EIA proved not significant. A recommendation has been made for opportunity screening by medical practitioners.
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Trauma accounted for 20% of all admissions to the general surgery wards of this University Hospital in a developing country. It was the most common reason for admission. This condition affects the young, males more commonly than females, and results in the need for operation in almost 40% of admitted trauma patients. ⋯ The head, chest and abdomen are, in order of frequency, the most commonly affected areas of the body, and injury is mainly the result of interpersonal violence (52%), accidental injuries including burns (20%), and road traffic accidents (20%). In-patient mortality was 4.5%, significantly higher in older patients and mainly in those with head injuries and burns. Scarce resources and resource misallocation mandate preventive measures to minimize the human and economic waste.
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In the Commonwealth of Dominica, the health and disability status of 108 people who, for various reasons, are confined to their homes--the so-called "shut-ins"--were studied. Eighty per cent of them were over 65 years of age and 10% were children. Most shut-ins were independent in self-care but dependent in general activities. ⋯ Twenty-one suffered from diseases of the musculo-skeletal system c.q. osteoarthritis, 13 from blindness of various origins, 13 from neurological diseases, 13 from CVA, psychosis or dementia and 13 from different other diseases. One-third suffered from more than one disease. A special programme would be required to optimize the home-care for the shut-ins and to encourage them to become more active.