Canadian journal of public health = Revue canadienne de santé publique
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Can J Public Health · Jan 2012
Air pollution and emergency department visits for asthma in Windsor, Canada.
The city of Windsor is recognized to have poor air quality in comparison with other Canadian cities. However, relatively few studies have evaluated associations between day-to-day fluctuations in air pollution levels and respiratory health in Windsor. In this study, we examined associations between short-term changes in ambient air pollution and emergency department (ED) visits for asthma in Windsor. ⋯ Exposure in Windsor to ambient air pollution increases the risk of ED visits for asthma, particularly among children.
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Can J Public Health · Sep 2011
ReviewFetal alcohol spectrum disorder prevalence estimates in correctional systems: a systematic literature review.
The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic search of the literature for studies that estimated the prevalence/incidence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in correctional systems in different countries and, based on these data, to estimate a) the number of people with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)/FASD within the criminal justice system population, and b) the relative risk of becoming imprisoned for individuals with FAS/FASD compared with those without FAS/FASD. ⋯ More studies investigating the prevalence/incidence of alcohol-affected people in the criminal justice system are required. There is an urgent need to raise awareness about the prevalence and disabilities of individuals with FASD in the criminal justice system and about appropriate responses. The criminal justice system is an ideal arena for intervention efforts aimed at the rehabilitation and prevention or reduction of recidivism in this unique population.
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Can J Public Health · Sep 2011
Non-medical use of prescription opioids among Ontario adults: data from the 2008/2009 CAMH Monitor.
There are indications that non-medical prescription opioid analgesics use (NMPOU) in the general population has increased in Canada in recent years; however, existing estimates have limitations. Thus our objectives are to determine prevalence and associated demographics of 1) prescription opioid analgesics (PO) use, 2) NMPOU, and 3) use of PO for intoxication purposes in the adult population in Ontario. ⋯ NMPOU is an emerging epidemic in Canada across all income and age groups, and is associated with other substance use and mental health problems. Improved survey designs are required for more accurate population estimates of NMPOU.
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In March and April 2009, pandemic H1N1 2009 influenza A virus (pH1N1 2009) emerged among residents of and travelers to Mexico, the United States and Canada. During the 2009 pandemic, cases of pH1N1 2009 infection were reported from over 214 countries, with at least 18,449 recorded deaths. ⋯ Although Aboriginal peoples constitute only 3.8% of Canada's population, members of the First Nations were 6.5 times more likely to be admitted to an ICU with pH1N1 2009 influenza than non-First Nations, and had rates of hospitalization nearly triple that of the national cumulative crude rate for all Canadians. We herein provide a succinct review of our current understanding of the risk of influenza among First Nations populations in Canada.
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Can J Public Health · Jul 2011
Multicenter StudyImplementing an indoor smoking ban in prison: enforcement issues and effects on tobacco use, exposure to second-hand smoke and health of inmates.
To describe the issues encountered during the implementation of an indoor smoking ban in prison and its effects on self-reported tobacco use, perceived exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) and perceived health status of inmates in Quebec's provincial correctional facilities. ⋯ This study's findings emphasize the importance of considering organizational and environmental factors when planning the implementation of an indoor smoking ban in correctional facilities.