Articles: health.
-
Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Are reminder stickers effective in reducing immunization dropout rates in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia?
A field trial to assess the effectiveness of a reminder sticker in reducing immunization dropout rates was conducted in two districts of Addis Ababa between 14 October 1991 and 31 January 1992. A total of 703 children were entered into the study. The study population was randomly divided into intervention and control groups. ⋯ This difference is clinically and statistically (P < 0.01) significant. Therefore, it is concluded that the reminder sticker is effective in reducing immunization dropout rates. Further investigations under operational conditions are recommended prior to the routine introduction of stickers into the immunization services.
-
Historical Article
Evolution of paediatric oncology over the years: overview with a focus on sub-Saharan Africa and examples from the Kenyan experience.
In this paper on "The Evolution of Paediatric Oncology Over the Years", a historical perspective is outlined regarding the subspecialty of paediatric oncology on a global basis. The evolution of paediatric oncology units and their role in the progress of cancer management in children is highlighted. ⋯ The development of a paediatric oncology unit at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya has been focused on, pointing out challenges, constraints and success that are associated in the initiation and nurturing of such units in developing countries. Lastly, Burkitt's lymphoma is singled out for discussion to illustrate problems that are abound in cancer management in children in sub-Saharan Africa.
-
Small area analysis has developed over the last two or three decades as a useful tool in health services research, as it allows the identification of areas within health or local authority districts with high rates of morbidity and mortality, and thus provides a useful base for planning the delivery of health services. A profile was compiled for Liverpool Family Health Services Authority on planned parenthood in the Liverpool District, with the aim of identifying where resources are needed most - which parts of the City, and which groups of women, are most in need. The profile included an analysis of various outcome measures, including abortion statistics, which can be used as a guide to the apparent effectiveness of services. ⋯ The maps for NHS and BPAS abortion rates suggest that total abortion rates are high in City centre wards, and low in areas south of the City. This would suggest that there are differences in social factors, family planning provision, and other factors which are influencing abortion rates. Although available indicators would suggest that City centre wards are in greatest need of improved family planning provision, these are the wards which are relatively well provided with health authority family planning clinics.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)