The New Zealand medical journal
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New Zealand's National Pest Plant Accord (NPPA) is a voluntary and cooperative agreement between industry, regional councils, and central government departments with biosecurity responsibilities (primarily the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and the Department of Conservation). Plant species included in the NPPA are declared unwanted organisms under the Biosecurity Act 1993, which prevents their sale, propagation, or distribution across the country. ⋯ In contrast, T. succedaneum was not included in the NPPA, as the latter was deemed to be an inappropriate mechanism for its control. In this article the NPPA process is outlined, and the adverse impacts on human health of these two species are discussed--including symptoms, treatment, and possible management measures.
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In 2005 the National Screening Unit of the Ministry of Health appointed a Colorectal Screening Advisory Group to provide independent strategic advice and recommendations on population screening for colorectal cancer (CRC) in New Zealand. ⋯ The Advisory Group recommends that a feasibility study of CRC screening using FOBTi be undertaken. This would help determine the performance of the FOBTi in the New Zealand population and whether the New Zealand health system could support an acceptable, effective and economically efficient CRC screening programme. To optimise the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer there is an immediate need to expand colonoscopy services and to ensure that throughout New Zealand the treatment outcomes for CRC, both surgical and oncological, meet international standards.
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Comment Letter
Medical students denied access to normal vaginal deliveries.