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Perveen MM, Mayo-Malasky HE, Lee-Wong MF, Tomaska JM, Forsyth E, Gravely A, Klein MA, Trembley JH, Butterick TA, Promisloff RA, Ginex PK, Barach P, Szema AM. Gross Hematuria and Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms Associated With Military Burn Pits Exposures in US Veterans Deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. J Occup Environ Med 2023; 65:740-744. [PMID: 37367635 PMCID: PMC10487357 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000002919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of the study is to describe rates of hematuria and other lower urinary tract symptoms, including self-reported cancer rates, among veterans postburn pits emissions exposure during deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. METHODS US post-9/11 veterans with burn pits emissions exposure confirmed via DD214 forms in the Burn Pits360.org Registry were sent a modified survey. Data were deidentified and anonymously coded. RESULTS Twenty-nine percent of the 155 respondents exposed to burn pits self-reported seeing blood in their urine. The average index score of our modified American Urological Association Symptom Index Survey was 12.25 (SD, 7.48). High rates of urinary frequency (84%) and urgency (76%) were self-reported. Bladder, kidney, or lung cancers were self-reported in 3.87%. CONCLUSIONS US veterans exposed to burn pits are self-reporting hematuria and other lower urinary tract symptoms.
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Barati H, Ramozi M, Mousavi SH, Kaneda Y, Ozaki A. Health Challenges After a Ban on Women Working in Non-governmental Organizations in Afghanistan. Cureus 2023; 15:e41137. [PMID: 37519567 PMCID: PMC10386788 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.41137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Taliban's prohibition of women working in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has severely impacted essential health services in Afghanistan since its enactment in late 2022. This ban has led to the suspension of numerous health and nutrition teams, reduced counseling services, and closure of safe spaces for women and girls. The significant contribution of women in the healthcare sector is evidenced by their presence in various NGOs, with their absence causing a critical shortage of female health personnel. This has further exacerbated the hunger crisis in Afghanistan, putting millions at risk. The international community urgently needs to address this issue to protect human rights and safeguard the well-being of the affected population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yudai Kaneda
- School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, JPN
| | - Akihiko Ozaki
- Department of Breast and Thyroid Surgery, Jyoban Hospital of Tokiwa Foundation, Iwaki, JPN
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Neyazi A, Haidarzada AS, Rangelova V, Erfan A, Bashiri B, Neyazi M, Faizi N, Konşuk-Ünlü H, Griffiths MD. Prevalence and predictors of depression among women in Afghanistan: a cross-sectional study. Discov Psychol 2023; 3:7. [PMCID: PMC9987398 DOI: 10.1007/s44202-023-00068-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
Depression is a very common mental health illness characterized by a cluster of signs and symptoms ranging from mood disturbances and sleep or appetite disorders to physical manifestations of the body. The purpose of the present study was to estimate the prevalence of depression and its related factors among Afghan women. A cross-sectional study was conducted among women between July 14, 2021, to August 15, 2021, in Kabul, Mazar-e-Sharif and Samangan provinces (Afghanistan). A total of 664 Afghan women participated in the study (mean age = 28.85 years; SD ± 11.57). In order to assess depression among participants, the 19-item validated Dari version of the Center for Epidemiological Studies–Depression Scale was used. Approximately four-fifths of the sample had depression symptoms (79.1%). Participants with depression symptoms were significantly more likely to (i) be aged over 30 years, (ii) live in rural areas, (iii) have a low-income level, (iv) not have an occupation, (v) have any disease/illness, and (vi) have experienced an event that had mentally affected them in the past month. Considering the high prevalence of depression symptoms among Afghan women, there is a need to integrate mental health services for women in Afghanistan. The use of interventions including regular screening for depression symptoms, and educating women and girls concerning the symptoms of depression for early self-diagnosis are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Neyazi
- Afghanistan Center for Epidemiological Studies, Herat, Afghanistan
| | | | - Vanya Rangelova
- Department of Epidemiology and Disaster Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Medical University Plovdiv, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Adiba Erfan
- Faculty of Medicine, Balkh University, Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan
| | - Bahara Bashiri
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Atefi Institute of Health Sciences, Herat, Afghanistan
| | - Mehrab Neyazi
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Atefi Institute of Health Sciences, Herat, Afghanistan
| | - Naweed Faizi
- Faculty of Medicine, Afghan Swiss Higher Educational Institute, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | | | - Mark D. Griffiths
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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Knefel M, Kantor V, Weindl D, Schiess-Jokanovic J, Nicholson AA, Verginer L, Schäfer I, Lueger-Schuster B. Mental health professionals' perspective on a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for Afghan asylum seekers and refugees. Eur J Psychotraumatol 2022; 13:2068913. [PMID: 35695861 PMCID: PMC9176353 DOI: 10.1080/20008198.2022.2068913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While many elaborated treatment protocols focus on post-traumatic stress symptoms, a large number of refugees suffer from a range of mental health problems. Thus, brief and transdiagnostic psychological interventions may be helpful first interventions for help-seeking refugees and asylum seekers in a stepped-care approach. Critically, there is limited research on how transdiagnostic interventions are received in general practice in non-specialized mental healthcare settings in high-income countries, where often only mental health professionals (MHPs) are legally allowed to treat people with mental disorders. MHPs may thus deliver such interventions, but their perspective towards them has not yet been investigated. Objective We aimed to investigate MHPs' perception of the usability of adapted Problem Management Plus (aPM+), a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for refugees, which we adapted to address distress caused by post-migration living difficulties (PMLDs). Method Employing an e-learning tool, we introduced the aPM+ intervention to 59 MHPs and assessed their perspective towards the intervention. We then used an inductive approach to analyse their perspective towards the intervention with open-ended questions. Results Altogether, 59 MHPs enrolled in the webinar and 29 provided feedback on the intervention. MHPs had a positive view on the intervention but emphasized the importance of situation-specific adaptations to the structure of the manual. The most favoured specific strategies were 'managing stress/slow-breathing', the 'tree of capabilities', and the 'riding the anger' exercise. The last two were additionally developed to reduce distress caused by PMLDs by either enhancing self-efficacy or reducing anger regulation difficulties. Conclusions An adaptation to aPM+ regarding more flexibility of the manual may enhance the likelihood of MHPs implementing the intervention in their daily practice. Strategies addressing coping with PMLDs could be particularly helpful.Trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register identifier: DRKS00016538. HIGHLIGHTS Mental health professionals had a positive view on a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention for refugees but emphasized the importance of situation-specific adaptations to the structure of the manual.Low -intensity interventions may be useful not only in low- and middle-income countries but also in high-income countries as part of a stepped-care approach, even if distributed by MHPs instead of trained laypersons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Knefel
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Viktoria Kantor
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dina Weindl
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Andrew A. Nicholson
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Lucia Verginer
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ingo Schäfer
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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Jazdarehee A, Huget-Penner S, Pawlowska M. Pseudo-pheochromocytoma due to obstructive sleep apnea: a case report. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep 2022; 2022:21-0100. [PMID: 35212265 PMCID: PMC8897593 DOI: 10.1530/edm-21-0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition of intermittent nocturnal upper airway obstruction. OSA increases sympathetic drive which may result in clinical and biochemical features suggestive of pheochromocytoma. We present the case of a 65-year-old male with a 2.9-cm left adrenal incidentaloma on CT, hypertension, symptoms of headache, anxiety and diaphoresis, and persistently elevated 24-h urine norepinephrine (initially 818 nmol/day (89-470)) and normetanephrine (initially 11.2 µmol/day (0.6-2.7)). He was started on prazosin and underwent left adrenalectomy. Pathology revealed an adrenal corticoadenoma with no evidence of pheochromocytoma. Over the next 2 years, urine norepinephrine and normetanephrine remained significantly elevated with no MIBG avid disease. Years later, he was diagnosed with severe OSA and treated with continuous positive airway pressure. Urine testing done once OSA was well controlled revealed complete normalization of urine norepinephrine and normetanephrine with substantial symptom improvement. It was concluded that the patient never had a pheochromocytoma but rather an adrenal adenoma with biochemistry and symptoms suggestive of pheochromocytoma due to untreated severe OSA. Pseudo-pheochromocytoma is a rare presentation of OSA and should be considered on the differential of elevated urine catecholamines and metanephrines in the right clinical setting. LEARNING POINTS Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common condition among adults. OSA may rarely present as pseudo-pheochromocytoma with symptoms of pallor, palpitations, perspiration, headache, or anxiety. OSA should be considered on the differential of elevated urine catecholamines and metanephrines, especially in patients with negative metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan results.
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Key Words
- adolescent/young adult
- adult
- geriatric
- neonatal
- paediatric
- pregnant adult
- female
- male
- american indian or alaska native
- asian - bangladeshi
- asian - chinese
- asian - filipino
- asian - indian
- asian - japanese
- asian - korean
- asian - pakistani
- asian - vietnamese
- asian - other
- black - african
- black - caribbean
- black - other
- hispanic or latino - central american or south american
- hispanic or latino - cuban
- hispanic or latino - dominican
- hispanic or latino - mexican, mexican american, chicano
- hispanic or latino - puerto rican
- hispanic or latino - other
- native hawaiian/other pacific islander
- white
- other
- afghanistan
- aland islands
- albania
- algeria
- american samoa
- andorra
- angola
- anguilla
- antarctica
- antigua and barbuda
- argentina
- armenia
- aruba
- australia
- austria
- azerbaijan
- bahamas
- bahrain
- bangladesh
- barbados
- belarus
- belgium
- belize
- benin
- bermuda
- bhutan
- bolivia
- bosnia and herzegovina
- botswana
- bouvet island
- brazil
- british indian ocean territory
- brunei darussalam
- bulgaria
- burkina faso
- burundi
- cambodia
- cameroon
- canada
- cape verde
- cayman islands
- central african republic
- chad
- chile
- china
- christmas island
- cocos (keeling) islands
- colombia
- comoros
- congo
- congo, the democratic republic of the
- cook islands
- costa rica
- côte d'ivoire
- croatia
- cuba
- cyprus
- czech republic
- denmark
- djibouti
- dominica
- dominican republic
- ecuador
- egypt
- el salvador
- equatorial guinea
- eritrea
- estonia
- ethiopia
- falkland islands (malvinas)
- faroe islands
- fiji
- finland
- france
- french guiana
- french polynesia
- french southern territories
- gabon
- gambia
- georgia
- germany
- ghana
- gibraltar
- greece
- greenland
- grenada
- guadeloupe
- guam
- guatemala
- guernsey
- guinea
- guinea-bissau
- guyana
- haiti
- heard island and mcdonald islands
- holy see (vatican city state)
- honduras
- hong kong
- hungary
- iceland
- india
- indonesia
- iran, islamic republic of
- iraq
- ireland
- isle of man
- israel
- italy
- jamaica
- japan
- jersey
- jordan
- kazakhstan
- kenya
- kiribati
- korea, democratic people's republic of
- korea, republic of
- kuwait
- kyrgyzstan
- lao people's democratic republic
- latvia
- lebanon
- lesotho
- liberia
- libyan arab jamahiriya
- liechtenstein
- lithuania
- luxembourg
- macao
- macedonia, the former yugoslav republic of
- madagascar
- malawi
- malaysia
- maldives
- mali
- malta
- marshall islands
- martinique
- mauritania
- mauritius
- mayotte
- mexico
- micronesia, federated states of
- moldova, republic of
- monaco
- mongolia
- montenegro
- montserrat
- morocco
- mozambique
- myanmar
- namibia
- nauru
- nepal
- netherlands
- netherlands antilles
- new caledonia
- new zealand
- nicaragua
- niger
- nigeria
- niue
- norfolk island
- northern mariana islands
- norway
- oman
- pakistan
- palau
- palestinian territory, occupied
- panama
- papua new guinea
- paraguay
- peru
- philippines
- pitcairn
- poland
- portugal
- puerto rico
- qatar
- réunion
- romania
- russian federation
- rwanda
- saint barthélemy
- saint helena
- saint kitts and nevis
- saint lucia
- saint martin
- saint pierre and miquelon
- saint vincent and the grenadines
- samoa
- san marino
- sao tome and principe
- saudi arabia
- senegal
- serbia
- seychelles
- sierra leone
- singapore
- slovakia
- slovenia
- solomon islands
- somalia
- south africa
- south georgia and the south sandwich islands
- spain
- sri lanka
- sudan
- suriname
- svalbard and jan mayen
- swaziland
- sweden
- switzerland
- syrian arab republic
- taiwan, province of china
- tajikistan
- tanzania, united republic of
- thailand
- timor-leste
- togo
- tokelau
- tonga
- trinidad and tobago
- tunisia
- turkey
- turkmenistan
- turks and caicos islands
- tuvalu
- uganda
- ukraine
- united arab emirates
- united kingdom
- united states
- united states minor outlying islands
- uruguay
- uzbekistan
- vanuatu
- vatican city state
- venezuela
- viet nam
- virgin islands, british
- virgin islands, u.s.
- wallis and futuna
- western sahara
- yemen
- zambia
- zimbabwe
- maylaysia
- adipose tissue
- adrenal
- bone
- duodenum
- heart
- hypothalamus
- kidney
- liver
- ovaries
- pancreas
- parathyroid
- pineal
- pituitary
- placenta
- skin
- stomach
- testes
- thymus
- thyroid
- andrology
- autoimmunity
- cardiovascular endocrinology
- developmental endocrinology
- diabetes
- emergency
- endocrine disruptors
- endocrine-related cancer
- epigenetics
- genetics and mutation
- growth factors
- gynaecological endocrinology
- immunology
- infectious diseases
- late effects of cancer therapy
- mineral
- neuroendocrinology
- obesity
- ophthalmology
- paediatric endocrinology
- puberty
- tumours and neoplasia
- vitamin d
- 17ohp
- acth
- adiponectin
- adrenaline
- aldosterone
- amh
- androgens
- androstenedione
- androsterone
- angiotensin
- antidiuretic hormone
- atrial natriuretic hormone
- avp
- beta-endorphin
- big igf2
- brain natriuretic peptide
- calcitonin
- calcitriol
- cck
- corticosterone
- corticotrophin
- cortisol
- cortisone
- crh
- dehydroepiandrostenedione
- deoxycorticosterone
- deoxycortisol
- dhea
- dihydrotestosterone
- dopamine
- endothelin
- enkephalin
- epitestosterone
- epo
- fgf23
- fsh
- gastrin
- gh
- ghrelin
- ghrh
- gip
- glp1
- glp2
- glucagon
- glucocorticoids
- gnrh
- gonadotropins
- hcg
- hepcidin
- histamine
- human placental lactogen
- hydroxypregnenolone
- igf1
- igf2
- inhibin
- insulin
- kisspeptin
- leptin
- lh
- melanocyte-stimulating hormone
- melatonin
- metanephrines
- mineralocorticoids
- motilin
- nandrolone
- neuropeptide y
- noradrenaline
- normetanephrine
- oestetrol (e4)
- oestradiol (e2)
- oestriol (e3)
- oestrogens
- oestrone (e1)
- osteocalcin
- oxyntomodulin
- oxytocin
- pancreatic polypeptide
- peptide yy
- pregnenolone
- procalcitonin
- progesterone
- prolactin
- prostaglandins
- pth
- relaxin
- renin
- resistin
- secretin
- somatostatin
- testosterone
- thpo
- thymosin
- thymulin
- thyroxine (t4)
- trh
- triiodothyronine (t3)
- tsh
- vip
- 17-alpha hydroxylase/17,20 lyase deficiency
- 17-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency
- 3-m syndrome
- 22q11 deletion syndrome
- 49xxxxy syndrome
- abscess
- acanthosis nigricans
- acromegaly
- acute adrenocortical insufficiency
- addisonian crisis
- addison's disease
- adenocarcinoma
- aip gene mutation
- adrenal insufficiency
- adrenal salt-wasting crisis
- adrenarche
- adrenocortical adenoma
- adrenocortical carcinoma
- adrenoleukodystrophy
- aip gene variant
- amenorrhoea (primary)
- amenorrhoea (secondary)
- amyloid goitre
- amyloidosis
- anaplastic thyroid cancer
- anaemia
- aneuploidy
- androgen insensitivity syndrome
- anti-phospholipid antibody syndrome
- asthma
- autoimmune disorders
- autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome 1
- autoimmune polyendocrine syndrome 2
- autoimmune polyglandular syndrome
- autoimmune hypophysitis
- autosomal dominant hypophosphataemic rickets
- autosomal dominant osteopetrosis
- bardet-biedl syndrome
- bartter syndrome
- bilateral adrenal hyperplasia
- biliary calculi
- breast cancer
- brenner tumour
- brown tumour
- burkitt's lymphoma
- casr gene mutation
- catecholamine secreting carotid body paraganglionoma
- cancer-prone syndrome
- carcinoid syndrome
- carcinoid tumour
- carney complex
- carotid body paraganglioma
- c-cell hyperplasia
- cerebrospinal fluid leakage
- chronic fatigue syndrome
- circadian rhythm sleep disorders
- congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- congenital hypothyroidism
- congenital hyperinsulinism
- conn's syndrome
- corticotrophic adenoma
- craniopharyngioma
- cretinism
- crohn's disease
- cryptorchidism
- cushing's disease
- cushing's syndrome
- cystolithiasis
- de quervain's thyroiditis
- denys-drash syndrome
- desynchronosis
- developmental abnormalities
- diabetes - lipoatrophic
- diabetes - mitochondrial
- diabetes - steroid-induced
- diabetes insipidus - dipsogenic
- diabetes insipidus - gestational
- diabetes insipidus - nephrogenic
- diabetes insipidus - neurogenic/central
- diabetes mellitus type 1
- diabetes mellitus type 2
- diabetic foot syndrome
- diabetic hypoglycaemia
- diabetic ketoacidosis
- diabetic muscle infarction
- diabetic nephropathy
- diverticular disease
- donohue syndrome
- down syndrome
- eating disorders
- ectopic acth syndrome
- ectopic cushing's syndrome
- ectopic parathyroid adenoma
- empty sella syndrome
- endometrial cancer
- endometriosis
- eosinophilic myositis
- euthyroid sick syndrome
- familial hypocalciuric hypercalcaemia
- familial dysalbuminaemic hyperthyroxinaemia
- familial euthyroid hyperthyroxinaemia
- fat necrosis
- female athlete triad syndrome
- fetal demise
- fetal macrosomia
- follicular thyroid cancer
- fractures
- frasier syndrome
- friedreich's ataxia
- functional parathyroid cyst
- galactorrhoea
- gastrinoma
- gastritis
- gastrointestinal perforation
- gastrointestinal stromal tumour
- gck mutation
- gender identity disorder
- gestational diabetes mellitus
- giant ovarian cysts
- gigantism
- gitelman syndrome
- glucagonoma
- glucocorticoid remediable aldosteronism
- glycogen storage disease
- goitre
- goitre (multinodular)
- gonadal dysgenesis
- gonadoblastoma
- gonadotrophic adenoma
- gorham's disease
- granuloma
- granulosa cell tumour
- graves' disease
- graves' ophthalmopathy
- growth hormone deficiency (adult)
- growth hormone deficiency (childhood onset)
- gynaecomastia
- hamman's syndrome
- haemorrhage
- hajdu-cheney syndrome
- hashimoto's disease
- hemihypertrophy
- hepatitis c
- hereditary multiple osteochondroma
- hirsutism
- histiocytosis
- huntington's disease
- hürthle cell adenoma
- hyperaldosteronism
- hyperandrogenism
- hypercalcaemia
- hypercalcaemic crisis
- hyperglucogonaemia
- hyperglycaemia
- hypergonadotropic hypogonadism
- hypergonadotropism
- hyperinsulinaemia
- hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia
- hyperkalaemia
- hyperlipidaemia
- hypernatraemia
- hyperosmolar hyperglycaemic state
- hyperparathyroidism (primary)
- hyperparathyroidism (secondary)
- hyperparathyroidism (tertiary)
- hyperpituitarism
- hyperprolactinaemia
- hypersexuality
- hypertension
- hyperthyroidism
- hypoaldosteronism
- hypocalcaemia
- hypoestrogenism
- hypoglycaemia
- hypoglycaemic coma
- hypogonadism
- hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism
- hypoinsulinaemia
- hypokalaemia
- hyponatraemia
- hypoparathyroidism
- hypophosphataemia
- hypophosphatasia
- hypophysitis
- hypopituitarism
- hypothyroidism
- iatrogenic disorder
- idiopathic bilateral adrenal hyperplasia
- idiopathic pituitary hyperplasia
- igg4-related systemic disease
- inappropriate tsh secretion
- incidentaloma
- infertility
- insulin autoimmune syndrome
- insulin resistance
- insulinoma
- intracranial vasospasm
- intrauterine growth retardation
- iodine allergy
- ischaemic heart disease
- kallmann syndrome
- ketoacidosis
- klinefelter syndrome
- kwashiorkor
- kwashiorkor (marasmic)
- leg ulcer
- laron syndrome
- latent autoimmune diabetes of adults (lada)
- laurence-moon syndrome
- left ventricular hypertrophy
- leukocytoclastic vasculitis
- leydig cell tumour
- lipodystrophy
- lipomatosis
- liver failure
- lung metastases
- luteoma
- lymphadenopathy
- macronodular adrenal hyperplasia
- macronodular hyperplasia
- macroprolactinoma
- marasmus
- maturity onset diabetes of young (mody)
- mccune-albright syndrome
- mckittrick-wheelock syndrome
- medullary thyroid cancer
- meigs syndrome
- membranous nephropathy
- men1
- men2a
- men2b
- men4
- menarche
- meningitis
- menopause
- metabolic acidosis
- metabolic syndrome
- metastatic carcinoma
- metastatic chromaffin cell tumour
- metastatic gastrinoma
- metastatic melanoma
- metastatic tumour
- microadenoma
- microprolactinoma
- motor neurone disease
- myasthenia gravis
- myelolipoma
- myocardial infarction
- myositis
- myotonic dystrophy type 1
- myotonic dystrophy type 2
- myxoedema
- myxoedema coma
- nelson's syndrome
- neonatal diabetes
- nephrolithiasis
- neuroblastoma
- neuroendocrine tumour
- neurofibromatosis
- nodular hyperplasia
- non-functioning pituitary adenoma
- non-hodgkin lymphoma
- non-islet-cell tumour hypoglycaemia
- noonan syndrome
- oculocerebrorenal syndrome
- osteogenesis imperfecta
- osteomalacia
- osteomyelitis
- osteoporosis
- osteoporosis (pregnancy/lactation-associated)
- osteosclerosis
- ovarian cancer
- ovarian dysgenesis
- ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome
- ovarian tumour
- paget's disease
- paget's disease (juvenille)
- pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour
- pancreatitis
- panhypopituitarism
- papillary thyroid cancer
- paraganglioma
- paranasal sinus lesion
- paraneoplastic syndromes
- parasitic thyroid nodules
- parathyroid adenoma
- parathyroid adenoma (ectopic)
- parathyroid carcinoma
- parathyroid cyst
- parathroid hyperplasia
- pcos
- periodontal disease
- phaeochromocytoma
- phaeochromocytoma crisis
- pickardt syndrome
- pituitary abscess
- pituitary adenoma
- pituitary apoplexy
- pituitary carcinoma
- pituitary cyst
- pituitary haemorrhage
- pituitary hyperplasia
- pituitary hypoplasia
- pituitary tumour (malignant)
- plurihormonal pituitary adenoma
- poems syndrome
- polycythaemia
- porphyria
- pneumonia
- posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome
- post-prandial hypoglycaemia
- prader-willi syndrome
- prediabetes
- pre-eclampsia
- pregnancy
- premature ovarian failure
- premenstrual dysphoric disorder
- premenstrual syndrome
- primary hypertrophic osteoarthropathy
- prolactinoma
- prostate cancer
- pseudohypoaldosteronism type 1
- pseudohypoaldosteronism type 2
- pseudohypoparathyroidism
- psychosocial short stature
- puberty (delayed or absent)
- puberty (precocious)
- pulmonary oedema
- quadrantanopia
- rabson-mendenhall syndrome
- rhabdomyolysis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- rickets
- schwannoma
- sellar reossification
- sertoli cell tumour
- sertoli-leydig cell tumour
- sexual development disorders
- sheehan's syndrome
- short stature
- siadh
- small-cell carcinoma
- small intestine neuroendocrine tumour
- solitary fibrous tumour
- solitary sellar plasmacytoma
- somatostatinoma
- somatotrophic adenoma
- squamous cell thyroid carcinoma
- stiff person syndrome
- struma ovarii
- subcutaneous insulin resistance
- systemic lupus erythematosus
- takotsubo cardiomyopathy
- tarts
- testicular cancer
- thecoma
- thyroid adenoma
- thyroid carcinoma
- thyroid cyst
- thyroid dysgenesis
- thyroid fibromatosis
- thyroid hormone resistance syndrome
- thyroid lymphoma
- thyroid nodule
- thyroid storm
- thyroiditis
- thyrotoxicosis
- thyrotrophic adenoma
- traumatic brain injury
- tuberculosis
- tuberous sclerosis complex
- tumour-induced osteomalacia
- turner syndrome
- unilateral adrenal hyperplasia
- ureterolithiasis
- urolithiasis
- von hippel-lindau disease
- wagr syndrome
- waterhouse-friderichsen syndrome
- williams syndrome
- wolcott-rallison syndrome
- wolfram syndrome
- xanthogranulomatous hypophysitis
- xlaad/ipex
- zollinger-ellison syndrome
- abdominal adiposity
- abdominal distension
- abdominal cramp
- abdominal discomfort
- abdominal guarding
- abdominal lump
- abdominal pain
- abdominal tenderness
- abnormal posture
- abdominal wall defects
- abrasion
- acalculia
- accelerated growth
- acne
- acrochorda
- acroosteolysis
- acute stress reaction
- adverse breast development
- aggression
- agitation
- agnosia
- akathisia
- akinesia
- albuminuria
- alcohol intolerance
- alexia
- alopecia
- altered level of consciousness
- amaurosis
- amaurosis fugax
- ambiguous genitalia
- amblyopia
- amenorrhoea
- ameurosis
- amnesia
- amusia
- anasarca
- angiomyxoma
- anhedonia
- anisocoria
- ankle swelling
- anorchia
- anorectal malformations
- anorexia
- anosmia
- anosognosia
- anovulation
- antepartum haemorrhage
- anuria
- anxiety
- apathy
- aphasia
- aphonia
- apnoea
- appendicitis
- appetite increase
- appetite reduction/loss
- apraxia
- aqueductal stenosis
- arteriosclerosis
- arthralgia
- articulation impairment
- ascites
- asperger syndrome
- asphyxia
- asthenia
- astigmatism
- asymptomatic
- ataxia
- atrial fibrillation
- atrial myxoma
- atrophy
- adhd
- autism
- autonomic neuropathy
- avulsion
- babinski's sign
- back pain
- bacteraemia
- behavioural problems
- belching
- bifid scrotum
- biliary colic
- bitemporal hemianopsia
- blindness
- blistering
- bloating
- bloody show
- boil(s)
- bone cyst
- bone fracture(s)
- bone lesions
- bone pain
- bony metastases
- borborygmus
- bowel movements - bleeding
- bowel movements - increased frequency
- bowel movements - pain
- bowel obstruction
- bowel perforation
- brachycephaly
- brachydactyly
- bradycardia
- bradykinesia
- bradyphrenia
- bradypnea
- breast contour change
- breast enlargement
- breast lump
- breast reduction
- breast tenderness
- breastfeeding difficulties
- breathing difficulties
- bronchospasms
- brushfield spots
- bruxism
- buffalo hump
- cachexia
- calcification
- cardiac fibrosis
- cardiac malformations
- cardiac tamponade
- cardiogenic shock
- cardiomegaly
- cardiomyopathy
- cardiopulmonary arrest
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- caruncle - inflammation
- cataplexy
- cataract(s)
- catathrenia
- central obesity
- cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhoea
- cervical pain
- cheeks - full
- cheiloschisis
- chemosis
- chest pain
- chest pain (pleuritic)
- chest pain (precordial)
- cheyne-stokes respiration
- chills
- cholecystitis
- cholestasis
- chondrocalcinosis
- chordee
- chorea
- choroidal atrophy
- chronic pain
- circulatory collapse
- cirrhosis
- citraturia
- claudication
- clitoromegaly
- cloacal exstrophy
- clonus
- club foot
- clumsiness
- coagulopathy
- coarctation
- coeliac disease
- cognitive problems
- cold intolerance
- collapse
- colour blindness
- coma
- concentration difficulties
- confusion
- congenital heart defect
- conjunctivitis
- constipation
- convulsions
- coordination difficulties
- coughing
- crackles
- cramps
- craniofacial abnormalities
- craniotabes
- cutaneous ischaemia
- cutaneous myxoma
- cutaneous pigmentation
- cyanosis
- dalrymple's sign
- deafness
- deep vein thrombosis
- dehydration
- delayed puberty
- delirium
- dementia
- dental abscess(es)
- dental problems
- depression
- diabetes insipidus
- diabetic neuropathy
- diabetic foot infection
- diabetic foot neuropathy
- diabetic foot ulceration
- diarrhoea
- diplopia
- dizziness
- duodenal atresia
- duplex kidney(s)
- dysarthria
- dysdiadochokinesia
- dysgraphia
- dyslexia
- dyslipidaemia
- dysmenorrhoea
- dyspareunia
- dyspepsia
- dysphagia
- dysphonia
- dysphoria
- dyspnoea
- dystonia
- dysuria
- ear, nose and/or throat infection
- early menarche
- ears - low set
- ears - pinna abnormalities
- ears - small
- ecchymoses
- ectopic ureter
- emotional immaturity
- encopresis
- endometrial hyperplasia
- enlarged bladder
- enlarged prostate
- eosinophilia
- epicanthic fold
- epilepsy
- epistaxis
- erectile dysfunction
- erythema
- euphoria
- eyebrows - bushy
- eyelid retraction
- eyelid swelling
- eyelids - redness
- eyes - almond-shaped
- eyes - dry
- eyes - feeling of grittiness
- eyes - inflammation
- eyes - irritation
- eyes - itching
- eyes - pain (gazing down)
- eyes - pain (gazing up)
- eyes - redness
- eyes - watering
- face - change in appearance
- face - coarse features
- face - numbness
- facial fullness
- facial palsy
- facial plethora
- facial weakness
- facies - abnormal
- facies - hippocratic
- facies - moon
- faecal incontinence
- failure to thrive
- fallopian tube hyperplasia
- fasciculation
- fatigue
- fatigue (post-exertional)
- feet - cold
- feet - increased size
- feet - large
- feet - pain
- feet - small
- fingers - thick
- flaccid paralysis
- flatulence
- flushing
- fontanelles - enlarged
- frontal bossing
- fungating lesion
- fungating mass
- funny turns
- gait abnormality
- gait unsteadiness
- gallbladder calculi
- gallstones
- gangrene
- gastro-oesophageal reflux
- genital oedema
- genu valgum
- genu varum
- gestational diabetes
- glaucoma
- glucose intolerance
- glucosuria
- growth hormone deficiency
- growth retardation
- haematemesis
- haematochezia
- haematoma
- haematuria
- haemoglobinuria
- haemoptysis
- hair - coarse
- hair - dry
- hair - temporal balding
- hairline - low
- hallucination
- hands - enlargement
- hands - large
- hands - single palmar crease
- hands - small
- head - large
- headache
- hearing loss
- heart failure
- heart murmur
- heat intolerance
- height loss
- hemiballismus
- hemianopia
- hemiparesis
- hemispatial neglect
- hepatic cysts
- hepatic metastases
- hepatomegaly
- hidradenitis suppurativa
- high-arched palate
- hip dislocation
- hippocampal dysgenesis
- hirschsprung's disease
- hot flushes
- hydronephrosis
- hypolipidaemia
- hyperactivity
- hyperacusis
- hyperandrogenaemia
- hypercalciuria
- hypercapnea
- hypercholesterolaemia
- hypercortisolaemia
- hyperflexibility
- hyperglucagonaemia
- hyperhidrosis
- hyperhomocysteinaemia
- hypernasal speech
- hyperopia
- hyperoxaluria
- hyperpigmentation
- hyperplasia
- hyperpnoea
- hypersalivation
- hyperseborrhea
- hypersomnia
- hyperthermia
- hypertrichosis
- hypertrophy
- hyperuricaemia
- hyperventilation
- hypoadrenalism
- hypoalbuminaemia
- hypocalciuria
- hypocitraturia
- hypomagnesaemia
- hypopigmentation
- hypoplastic scrotum
- hypopotassaemia
- hypoprolactinaemia
- hyporeflexia
- hyposmia
- hypospadias
- hypotension
- hypothermia
- hypotonia
- hypoventilation
- hypovitaminosis d
- hypovolaemia
- hypovolaemic shock
- hypoxia
- immunodeficiency
- impulsivity
- inattention
- infections
- inflexibility
- insomnia
- instability
- intussusception
- irritability
- ischaemia
- ischuria
- itching
- jaundice
- keratoconus
- ketonuria
- ketotic odour
- kidney dysplasia
- kidney stones
- kyphoscoliosis
- kyphosis
- labioscrotal fold abnormalities
- laceration
- late dentition
- learning difficulties
- leg pain
- legs - increased length
- leukaemia
- leukocytosis
- libido increase
- libido reduction/loss
- lichen sclerosus
- lips - dry
- lips - thin
- little finger - in-curved
- little finger - short
- liver masses
- lordosis
- lordosis (loss of)
- lymphadenectomy
- lymphadenitis
- lymphocytosis
- lymphoedema
- macroglossia
- malaise
- malaise (post-exertional)
- malodorous perspiration
- mania
- marcus gunn pupil
- mastalgia
- meckel's diverticulum
- melena
- menorrhagia
- menstrual disorder
- mesenteric ischaemia
- metabolic alkalosis
- microalbuminuria
- microcephaly
- micrognathia
- micropenis
- milk-alkali syndrome
- miscarriage
- mood changes/swings
- mouth - down-turned
- mouth - small
- movement - limited range of
- mucosal pigmentation
- muscle atrophy
- muscle freezing
- muscle hypertrophy
- muscle rigidity
- myalgia
- myasthaenia
- mydriasis
- myelodysplasia
- myeloma
- myoclonus
- myodesopsia
- myokymia
- myopathy
- myopia
- myosis
- nail clubbing
- nail dystrophy
- nasal obstruction
- nausea
- neck - loose skin (nape)
- neck - short
- neck mass
- neck pain/discomfort
- necrolytic migratory erythema
- necrosis
- nephrocalcinosis
- nephropathy
- neurofibromas
- night terrors
- nipple change
- nipple discharge
- nipple inversion
- nipple retraction
- nipples widely spaced
- nocturia
- normochromic normocytic anaemia
- nose - depressed bridge
- nose - flat bridge
- nose - thickening
- nystagmus
- obsessive-compulsive disorder
- obstetrical haemorrhage
- obstructive sleep apnoea
- odynophagia
- oedema
- oesophageal atresia
- oesophagitis
- oligomenorrhoea
- oliguria
- onychauxis
- oophoritis
- ophthalmoplegia
- optic atrophy
- orbital fat prolapse
- orbital hypertelorism
- orthostatic hypotension
- osteoarthritis
- osteopenia
- otitis media
- ovarian cysts
- ovarian hyperplasia
- palatoschisis
- pallor
- palmar erythema
- palpebral fissure (downslanted)
- palpebral fissure (extended)
- palpebral fissure (reduced)
- palpebral fissure (upslanted)
- palpitations
- pancreatic fibrosis
- pancytopaenia
- panic attacks
- papilloedema
- paraesthesia
- paralysis
- paranoia
- patellar dislocation
- patellar subluxation
- pedal ulceration
- pellagra
- pelvic mass
- pelvic pain
- penile agenesis
- peptic ulcer
- pericardial effusion
- periodontitis
- periosteal bone reactions
- peripheral oedema
- personality change
- pes cavus
- petechiae
- peyronie's disease
- pharyngitis
- philtrum - long
- philtrum - short
- phosphaturia
- photophobia
- photosensitivity
- pleurisy
- poikiloderma
- polydactyly
- polydipsia
- polyphagia
- polyuria
- poor wound healing
- postmenopausal bleeding
- post-nasal drip
- postprandial fullness
- postural instability
- prehypertension
- premature birth
- premature labour
- prenatal growth retardation
- presbyopia
- pretibial myxoedema
- proctalgia fugax
- prognathism
- proptosis
- prosopagnosia
- proteinuria
- pruritus
- pruritus scroti
- pruritus vulvae
- pseudarthrosis
- psoriatic arthritis
- psychiatric problems
- psychomotor retardation
- psychosis
- pterygium colli
- ptosis
- puberty (delayed/absent)
- puberty (early/precocious)
- puffiness
- pulmonary embolism
- purpura
- pyelonephritis
- pyloric stenosis
- pyrexia
- pyrosis
- pyuria
- rash
- rectal pain
- rectorrhagia
- refractory anemia
- reluctance to weight-bear
- renal agenesis
- renal clubbing
- renal colic
- renal cyst
- renal failure
- renal insufficiency
- renal phosphate wasting (isolated)
- renal tubular acidosis
- respiratory failure
- reticulocytosis
- retinitis pigmentosa
- retinopathy
- retrobulbar pain
- retrograde ejaculation
- retroperitoneal fibrosis
- salivary gland swelling
- salpingitis
- salt craving
- salt wasting
- sarcoidosis
- schizophrenia
- scoliosis
- scotoma
- seborrhoeic dermatitis
- seizures
- sensory loss
- sepsis
- septic arthritis
- septic shock
- shivering
- singultus
- sinusitis
- sixth nerve palsy
- skeletal deformity
- skeletal dysplasia
- skin - texture change
- skin infections
- skin necrosis
- skin pigmentation - spotty
- skin thickening
- skin thinning
- sleep apnoea
- sleep difficulties
- sleep disturbance
- sleep hyperhidrosis
- slow growth
- slurred speech
- social difficulties
- soft tissue swelling
- somnambulism
- somniloquy
- somnolence
- sore throat
- spasms
- spastic paraplegia
- spasticity
- speech delay
- spider naevi
- splenomegaly
- sputum production
- steatorrhoea
- stomatitis
- strabismus
- strangury
- striae
- stridor
- stroke
- subfertility
- suicidal ideation
- supraclavicular fat pads
- supranuclear gaze palsy
- sweating
- syncope
- syndactyly
- tachycardia
- tachypnoea
- teeth gapping
- telangiectasias
- telecanthus
- tetraparesis
- t-reflex (absent)
- t-reflex (depressed)
- tetany
- thermodysregulation
- thrombocytopenia
- thrombocytosis
- thrombophilia
- thrush
- tics
- tinnitus
- toe clubbing
- toe deformities
- toes - thick
- toes - widely spaced
- tongue - protruding
- tracheo-oesophageal compression
- tracheo-oesophageal fistula
- tremulousness
- tricuspid insufficiency
- umbilical hernia
- uraemia
- ureter duplex
- uricaemia
- urinary frequency
- urinary incontinence
- urogenital sinus
- urticaria
- uterine hyperplasia
- uterus duplex
- vagina duplex
- vaginal bleeding
- vaginal discharge
- vaginal dryness
- vaginal pain/tenderness
- vaginism
- ventricular fibrillation
- ventricular hypertrophy
- vertigo
- viraemia
- virilisation (abnormal)
- vision - acuity reduction
- vision - blurred
- visual disturbance
- visual field defect
- visual impairment
- visual loss
- vitiligo
- vocal cord paresis
- vomiting
- von graefe's sign
- weight gain
- weight loss
- wheezing
- widened joint space(s)
- xeroderma
- xerostomia
- 3-methoxy 4-hydroxy mandelic acid
- 17-hydroxypregnenolone (urine)
- 17-ketosteroids
- 25-hydroxyvitamin-d3
- 5hiaa
- aberrant adrenal receptors
- acid-base balance
- acth stimulation
- activated partial thromboplastin time
- acyl-ghrelin
- adrenal antibodies
- adrenal function
- adrenal scintigraphy
- adrenal venous sampling
- afp tumour marker
- alanine aminotransferase
- albumin
- albumin to creatinine ratio
- aldosterone (24-hour urine)
- aldosterone (blood)
- aldosterone (plasma)
- aldosterone (serum)
- aldosterone to renin ratio
- alkaline phosphatase
- alkaline phosphatase (bone-specific)
- alpha-fetoprotein
- ammonia
- amniocentesis
- amylase
- angiography
- anion gap
- anti-acetylcholine antibodies
- anticardiolipin antibody
- anti-insulin antibodies
- anti-islet cell antibody
- anti-gh antibodies
- antinuclear antibody
- anti-tyrosine phosphatase antibodies
- asvs
- barium studies
- basal insulin
- base excess
- apolipoprotein h
- beta-hydroxybutyrate
- bicarbonate
- bilirubin
- biopsy
- blood film
- blood pressure
- bmi
- body fat mass
- bone age
- bone biopsy
- bone mineral content
- bone mineral density
- bone mineral density test
- bone scintigraphy
- bone sialoprotein
- bound insulin
- brca1/brca2
- c1np
- c3 complement
- c4 complement
- ca125
- calcifediol
- calcium (serum)
- calcium (urine)
- calcium to creatinine clearance ratio
- carcinoembryonic antigen
- cardiac index
- catecholamines (24-hour urine)
- catecholamines (plasma)
- cd-56
- chemokines
- chest auscultation
- chloride
- chorionic villus sampling
- chromatography
- chromogranin a
- chromosomal analysis
- clomid challenge
- clonidine suppression
- collagen
- colonoscopy
- colposcopy
- continuous glucose monitoring
- core needle biopsy
- corticotropin-releasing hormone stimulation test
- cortisol (9am)
- cortisol (plasma)
- cortisol (midnight)
- cortisol (salivary)
- cortisol (serum)
- cortisol day curve
- cortisol, free (24-hour urine)
- c-peptide (24-hour urine)
- c-peptide (blood)
- c-reactive protein
- creatinine
- creatine kinase
- creatinine (24-hour urine)
- creatinine (serum)
- creatinine clearance
- crh stimulation
- ctpa scan
- ct scan
- c-telopeptide
- cytokines
- deoxypyridinoline
- dexa scan
- dexamethasone suppression
- dexamethasone suppression (high dose)
- dexamethasone suppression (low dose)
- dhea sulphate
- discectomy
- dldl cholesterol
- dmsa scan
- dna sequencing
- domperidone
- down syndrome screening
- ductal lavage
- echocardiogram
- eeg
- electrocardiogram
- electrolytes
- electromyography
- endoscopic ultrasound
- endoscopy
- endosonography
- enzyme immunoassay
- epinephrine (plasma)
- epinephrine (urine)
- erythrocyte sedimentation rate
- estimated glomerular filtration rate
- ethanol ablation
- ewing and clarke autonomic function
- exercise tolerance
- fbc
- ferritin
- fine needle aspiration biopsy
- flow cytometry
- fludrocortisone suppression
- fluticasone-propionate-17-beta carboxylic acid
- fmri
- folate
- ft3
- ft4
- gada
- gallium nitrate
- gallium scan
- gastric biopsy
- genetic analysis
- genitography
- gh day curve
- gh stimulation
- gh suppression
- glp-1
- glp-2
- glucose suppression test
- glucose (blood)
- glucose (blood, fasting)
- glucose (blood, postprandial)
- glucose (urine)
- glucose tolerance
- glucose tolerance (intravenous)
- glucose tolerance (oral)
- glucose tolerance (prolonged)
- gluten sensitivity
- gnrh stimulation
- gonadotrophins
- growth hormone-releasing peptide-2 test
- gut hormones (fasting)
- haematoxylin and eosin staining
- haemoglobin
- haemoglobin a1c
- hcg (serum)
- hcg (urine)
- hcg stimulation
- hdl cholesterol
- hearing test
- heart rate
- hepatic venous sampling with arterial stimulation
- high-sensitivity c-reactive protein
- histopathology
- hla genotyping
- holter monitoring
- homa
- homocysteine
- hyaluronic acid
- hydrocortisone day curve
- hydroxyproline
- hydroxyprogesterone
- hysteroscopy
- igfbp2
- igfbp3
- igg4/igg ratio
- immunocytochemistry
- immunohistochemistry
- immunoglobulins
- immunoglobulin g2
- immunoglobulin g4
- immunoglobulin a
- immunoglobulin m
- immunostaining
- inferior petrosal sinus sampling
- inhibin b
- insulin (fasting)
- insulin suppression
- insulin tissue resistance tests
- insulin tolerance
- intracranial pressure
- irm imaging
- ketones (plasma)
- ketones (urine)
- kidney function
- lactate
- lactate dehydrogenase
- laparoscopy
- laparoscopy and dye
- laparotomy
- ldl cholesterol
- leuprolide acetate stimulation
- leukocyte esterase (urine)
- levothyroxine absorption
- lipase (serum)
- lipid profile
- liquid-based cytology
- liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
- liver biopsy
- liver function
- lumbar puncture
- lung function testing
- luteinising hormone releasing hormone test
- macroprolactin
- magnesium
- mag3 scan
- mammogram
- mantoux test
- metanephrines (plasma)
- metanephrines (urinary)
- methoxytyramine
- metoclopramide
- metyrapone cortisol day curve
- metyrapone suppression
- metyrapone test dose
- mibg scan
- microarray analysis
- molecular genetic analysis
- mri
- myocardial biopsy
- nerve conduction study
- neuroendocrine markers
- neuron-specific enolase
- norepinephrine
- ntx
- oct
- octreotide scan
- octreotide suppression test
- osmolality
- ovarian venous sampling
- p1np
- palpation
- pap test
- parathyroid scintigraphy
- pentagastrin
- perchlorate discharge
- percutaneous umbilical blood sampling
- peripheral blood film
- pet scan
- ph (blood)
- phosphate (serum)
- phosphate (urine)
- pituitary function
- plasma osmolality
- plasma viscosity
- platelet count
- pneumococcal antigen
- pneumococcal pcr
- polymerase chain reaction
- polysomnography
- porter-silber chromogens
- potassium
- pregnancy test
- proinsulin
- prostate-specific antigen
- protein electrophoresis
- protein fingerprinting
- protein folding analysis
- psychiatric assessment
- psychometric assessment
- pulse oximetry
- pyelography
- pyridinium crosslinks
- quicki
- plasma renin activity
- radioimmunoassay
- radionuclide imaging
- raiu test
- red blood cell count
- renal biopsy
- renin (24-hour urine)
- respiratory status
- renin (blood)
- renin plasma activity
- rheumatoid factor
- salt loading
- sdldl cholesterol
- secretin stimulation
- selective parathyroid venous sampling
- selective transhepatic portal venous sampling
- semen analysis
- serotonin
- serum osmolality
- serum free insulin
- sestamibi scan
- sex hormone binding globulin
- shbg
- skeletal muscle mass
- skin biopsy
- sleep diary
- sodium
- spect scan
- supervised 72-hour fast
- surgical biopsy
- sweat test
- synaptophysin
- systemic vascular resistance index
- tanner scale
- thoracocentesis
- thyroid transcription factor-1
- thyroglobulin
- thyroid antibodies
- thyroid function
- thyroid scintigraphy
- thyroid ultrasonography
- total cholesterol
- total ghrelin
- total t3
- total t4
- trabecular thickness
- transaminase
- transvaginal ultrasound
- trap 5b
- trh stimulation
- triglycerides
- triiodothyronine (t3) suppression
- troponin
- tsh receptor antibodies
- type 3 precollagen
- type 4 collagen
- ultrasound-guided biopsy
- ultrasound scan
- urea and electrolytes
- uric acid (blood)
- uric acid (urine)
- urinalysis
- urinary free cortisol
- urine 24-hour volume
- urine osmolality
- vaginal examination
- vanillylmandelic acid (24-hour urine)
- visual field assessment
- vitamin b12
- vitamin e
- waist circumference
- water deprivation
- water load
- weight
- western blotting
- white blood cell count
- white blood cell differential count
- x-ray
- zinc
- abscess drainage
- acetic acid injection
- adhesiolysis
- adrenalectomy
- amputation
- analgesics
- angioplasty
- arthrodesis
- assisted reproduction techniques
- bariatric surgery
- bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy
- blood transfusion
- bone grafting
- caesarean section
- cardiac transplantation
- cardiac pacemaker
- cataract extraction
- chemoembolisation
- chemotherapy
- chemoradiotherapy
- clitoroplasty
- continuous renal replacement therapy
- contraception
- cordotomy
- counselling
- craniotomy
- cryopreservation
- cryosurgical ablation
- debridement
- dialysis
- diazoxide
- diet
- duodenotomy
- endonasal endoscopic surgery
- exercise
- external fixation
- extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
- extraocular muscle surgery
- eye surgery
- eyelid surgery
- fasciotomy
- fluid repletion
- fluid restriction
- gamma knife radiosurgery
- gastrectomy
- gastrostomy
- gender reassignment surgery
- gonadectomy
- heart transplantation
- hormone replacement
- hormone suppression
- hypophysectomy
- hysterectomy
- inguinal orchiectomy
- internal fixation
- intra-cardiac defibrillator
- islet transplantation
- ivf
- kidney transplantation
- laparoscopic adrenalectomy
- laryngoplasty
- laryngoscopy
- laser lithotripsy
- light treatment
- liver transplantation
- lumpectomy
- lymph node dissection
- mastectomy
- molecularly targeted therapy
- neuroendoscopic surgery
- oophorectomy
- orbital decompression
- orbital radiation
- orchidectomy
- orthopaedic surgery
- osteotomy
- ovarian cystectomy
- ovarian diathermy
- oxygen therapy
- pancreas transplantation
- pancreatectomy
- pancreaticoduodenectomy
- parathyroidectomy
- percutaneous adrenal ablation
- percutaneous nephrolithotomy
- pericardiocentesis
- pericardiotomy
- physiotherapy
- pituitary adenomectomy
- plasma exchange
- plasmapheresis
- psychotherapy
- radiofrequency ablation
- radionuclide therapy
- radiotherapy
- reconstruction of genitalia
- resection of tumour
- right-sided hemicolectomy
- salpingo-oophorectomy
- small bowel resection
- speech and language therapy
- spinal surgery
- splenectomy
- stereotactic radiosurgery
- termination of pregnancy
- thymic transplantation
- thyroidectomy
- tracheostomy
- transcranial surgery
- transsphenoidal surgery
- transtentorial surgery
- vaginoplasty
- vagotomy
- 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors
- 17?-estradiol
- abiraterone
- acarbose
- acetazolamide
- acetohexamide
- adalimumab
- albiglutide
- alendronate
- alogliptin
- alpha-blockers
- alphacalcidol
- alpha-glucosidase inhibitors
- amiloride
- amlodipine
- amoxicillin
- anastrozole
- angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
- angiotensin receptor antagonists
- anthracyclines
- antiandrogens
- antibiotics
- antiemetics
- antiepileptics
- antipsychotics
- antithyroid drugs
- antiseptic
- antivirals
- aripiprazole
- aromatase inhibitors
- aspirin
- astragalus membranaceus
- ativan
- atenolol
- atorvastatin
- avp receptor antagonists
- axitinib
- azathioprine
- bendroflumethiazide
- benzodiazepines
- beta-blockers
- betamethasone
- bexlosteride
- bicalutamide
- bisphosphonates
- bleomycin
- botulinum toxin
- bromocriptine
- cabergoline
- cabozantinib
- calcimimetics
- calcitonin (salmon)
- calcium
- calcium carbonate
- calcium chloride
- calcium dobesilate
- calcium edta
- calcium gluconate
- calcium-l-aspartate
- calcium polystyrene sulphonate
- canagliflozin
- capecitabine
- captopril
- carbimazole
- carboplatin
- carbutamide
- carvedilol
- ceftriaxone
- chlorothiazide
- chlorpropamide
- cholecalciferol
- cholinesterase inhibitors
- ciclosporin
- cinacalcet
- cisplatin
- clodronate
- clomifene
- clomiphene citrate
- clopidogrel
- co-cyprindiol
- codeine
- colonic polyps
- combined oral contraceptive pill
- conivaptan
- cortisone acetate
- continuous subcutaneous hydrocortisone infusion
- continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
- coumadin
- corticosteroids
- cortisol
- cyproterone acetate
- dacarbazine
- danazol
- dapagliflozin
- daunorubicin
- deferiprone
- demeclocycline
- denosumab
- desmopressin
- dexamethasone
- diazepam
- diethylstilbestrol
- digoxin
- diltiazem
- diphenhydramine
- diuretics
- docetaxel
- dopamine agonists
- dopamine antagonists
- dopamine receptor agonists
- doxazosin
- doxepin
- doxorubicin
- dpp4 inhibitors
- dutasteride
- dutogliptin
- eflornithine
- enoxaparin
- empagliflozin
- epinephrine
- epirubicin
- eplerenone
- epristeride
- equilenin
- equilin
- erlotinib
- ethinylestradiol
- etidronate
- etomidate
- etoposide
- everolimus
- exenatide
- fenofibrate
- finasteride
- fluconazole
- fluticasone
- fludrocortisone
- fluorouracil
- fluoxetine
- flutamide
- furosemide
- gaba receptor antagonists
- gefitinib
- gemcitabine
- gemigliptin
- ginkgo biloba
- glibenclamide
- glibornuride
- gliclazide
- glimepiride
- glipizide
- gliquidone
- glisoxepide
- glp1 agonists
- glucose
- glyclopyramide
- gnrh analogue
- gnrh antagonists
- heparin
- hrt (menopause)
- hydrochlorothiazide
- hydrocortisone
- ibandronate
- ibuprofen
- idarubicin
- idebenone
- imatinib
- immunoglobulin therapy
- implanon
- indapamide
- infliximab
- iron supplements
- isoniazid
- insulin aspart
- insulin glargine
- insulin glulisine
- insulin lispro
- interferon
- intrauterine system
- iopanoic acid
- ipilimumab
- ipragliflozin
- irbesartan
- izonsteride
- ketoconazole
- labetalol
- lactulose
- lanreotide
- leuprolide acetate
- levatinib
- levodopa
- levonorgestrel
- levothyroxine
- linagliptin
- liothyronine
- liraglutide
- lithium
- lisinopril
- lixivaptan
- loperamide
- loprazolam
- lormetazepam
- losartan
- low calcium formula
- magnesium glycerophosphate
- magnesium sulphate
- mecasermin
- medronate
- medroxyprogesterone acetate
- meglitinides
- menotropin
- metformin
- methadone
- methimazole
- methylprednisolone
- metoprolol
- metyrapone
- miglitol
- mitotane
- mitoxantrone
- mozavaptan
- mtor inhibitors
- multivitamins
- naproxen
- natalizumab
- nateglinide
- nelivaptan
- neridronate
- nifedipine
- nilutamide
- nitrazepam
- nivolumab
- nsaid
- octreotide
- oestradiol valerate
- olanzapine
- olpadronate
- omeprazole
- opioids
- oral contraceptives
- orlistat
- ornipressin
- otelixizumab
- oxandrolone
- oxidronate
- oxybutynin
- paclitaxel
- pamidronate
- pancreatic enzymes
- pantoprazole
- paracetamol
- paroxetine
- pasireotide
- pegvisomant
- perindopril
- phenobarbital
- phenoxybenzamine
- phosphate binders
- phosphate supplements
- phytohaemagglutinin induced interferon gamma
- pioglitazone
- plicamycin
- potassium chloride
- potassium iodide
- pramlintide
- prazosin
- prednisolone
- prednisone
- premarin
- promethazine
- propranolol
- propylthiouracil
- protease inhibitors
- proton pump inhibitors
- pyridostigmine
- quetiapine
- quinagolide
- quinestrol
- radioactive mibg
- radioactive octreotide
- radioiodine
- raloxifene
- ramipril
- relcovaptan
- remogliflozin etabonate
- repaglinide
- risperidone
- risedronate
- rituximab
- romidepsin
- rosiglitazone
- salbutamol
- saline
- salmeterol
- salt supplements
- satavaptan
- saxagliptin
- selective progesterone receptor modulators
- selenium
- sglt2 inhibitors
- sildenafil
- simvastatin
- sirolimus
- sitagliptin
- sodium bicarbonate
- sodium chloride
- sodium polystyrene sulfonate (kayexalate)
- somatostatin analogues
- sorafenib
- spironolactone
- ssris
- statins
- streptozotocin
- steroids
- strontium ranelate
- sucralfate
- sulphonylureas
- sunitinib
- tamoxifen
- taspoglutide
- temazepam
- temozolomide
- teplizumab
- terazosin
- teriparatide
- testolactone
- testosterone enanthate esters
- tetrabenazine
- thalidomide
- thiazolidinediones
- thyrotropin alpha
- tibolone
- tiludronate
- tiratricol (triac)
- tofogliflozin
- tolazamide
- tolbutamide
- tolvaptan
- tramadol
- trastuzumab
- trazodone
- triamcinolone
- triamterene
- trimipramine
- troglitazone
- tryptophan
- turosteride
- tyrosine-kinase inhibitors
- valproic acid
- valrubicin
- vandetanib
- vaptans
- vildagliptin
- vinorelbine
- voglibose
- vorinostat
- warfarin
- zaleplon
- z-drugs
- zoledronic acid
- zolpidem
- zopiclone
- cardiology
- dermatology
- gastroenterology
- general practice
- genetics
- geriatrics
- gynaecology
- nephrology
- neurology
- nursing
- obstetrics
- oncology
- otolaryngology
- paediatrics
- pathology
- podiatry
- psychology/psychiatry
- radiology/rheumatology
- rehabilitation
- surgery
- urology
- insight into disease pathogenesis or mechanism of therapy
- novel diagnostic procedure
- novel treatment
- unique/unexpected symptoms or presentations of a disease
- new disease or syndrome: presentations/diagnosis/management
- unusual effects of medical treatment
- error in diagnosis/pitfalls and caveats
- february
- 2022
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria Jazdarehee
- Department of Medicine and Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sawyer Huget-Penner
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Fraser Health Authority, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Monika Pawlowska
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of British Columbia, British Columbia, Canada
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Noh JW, Im YM, Kim KB, Kim MH, Kwon YD, Cha J. Digital and Economic Determinants of Healthcare in the Crisis-Affected Population in Afghanistan: Access to Mobile Phone and Socioeconomic Barriers. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:506. [PMID: 33925698 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9050506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite recent progress in Afghanistan’s health system from the support of international donors and NGOs, protracted conflicts combined with a series of natural disasters have continued to present substantial health risks. Extreme poverty has still aggravated social determinants of health and financial barriers to healthcare. Little is known about the context-specific factors influencing access to healthcare in the crisis-affected population. Using a subset of data from ‘Whole of Afghanistan Assessment (WoAA) 2019’, this study analyzed 31,343 households’ data, which was collected between 17 July and 19 September 2019 throughout all 34 provinces in Afghanistan. The outcome measured was access to care in the healthcare facility, and multivariable binary logistic regression models were used to identify the specific factors associated with access to healthcare. Of 31,343 households exposed to complex emergencies in Afghanistan, 10,057 (32.1%) could not access healthcare facilities when one was needed in last three months. The access to healthcare was significantly associated with displacement status, economic factors such as employment status or total monthly income, and the distance to healthcare facilities. Significant increase in healthcare access was associated with factors related to communication and access to information, such as awareness of humanitarian assistance availability and mobile phone with a SIM card, while disability in cognitive function, such as memory or concentration, was associated with poorer healthcare access. Our findings indicate that the crisis-affected population remains vulnerable in access to healthcare, despite the recent improvements in health sectors. Digital determinants, such as access to mobile phone, need to be addressed along with the healthcare barriers related to poverty and household vulnerabilities. The innovative humanitarian financing system using mobile communication and cash transfer programs would be considerable for the conflict-affected but digitally connected population in Afghanistan.
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Shabbir MU, Ahmed A, Shaukat F, Zaki A, Askar G, Ansar I, Sohail MI, Khan H. Disseminated Hydatid Disease in a Child Involving Multiple Organ Systems: A Case Report. Cureus 2020; 12:e6564. [PMID: 32042534 PMCID: PMC6996532 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.6564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Hydatid disease is a parasitic infestation by Echinococcus granulosus, which involves the liver and lungs primarily. The authors report a case of disseminated hydatid disease involving multiple organs simultaneously in a 7-year-old child from Kabul, Afghanistan. The patient under examination had been having a complaint of cough and low-grade fever for the last one year. Computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (USG) demonstrated cystic lesions in his liver, lungs, spleen, and suprarenal region. The literature review showed that it was very rare for hydatid disease to involve multiple organs simultaneously, even in endemic areas, and the management of disseminated disease was very challenging, especially in the pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Awaiz Ahmed
- Medicine, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, PAK
| | | | - Abdullah Zaki
- Internal Medicine, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Ghazan Askar
- Medicine, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, PAK
| | - Iqraa Ansar
- Pediatrics, Shifa International Hospital, Islamabad, PAK
| | | | - Hamza Khan
- Surgery, Shifa College of Medicine, Islamabad, PAK
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8
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Huizinga E, Idenburg FJ, van Dongen TTCF, Hoencamp R. Repatriation for diseases or non-battle injuries (DNBI): long-term impact on quality of life. BMJ Mil Health 2019; 166:e13-e16. [PMID: 31005884 DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2019-001194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Throughout history, diseases and non-battle injuries (DNBI) have threatened deployed forces more than battlefield injuries. During the Dutch involvement in Afghanistan, the amount of DNBI that needed medical evacuation out of theatre (60%) exceeded the number of battle injuries (40%). The aim of this study is to explore the long-term quality of life (QoL) of Dutch service members that acquired a DNBI, warranting repatriation during their deployment to Afghanistan between 2003 and 2014. METHODS Observational cross-sectional cohort study in a selected group of Dutch service members who deployed to Afghanistan 2003-2014 and were repatriated due to DNBI. Using the 36-item Short Form, EuroQol-6D, Symptom Checklist 90 and Post Deployment Reintegration Scale questionnaires, their outcomes were compared with a control group of deployed service members who did not sustain injuries or illnesses. RESULTS Groups were comparable in age, rank, number of deployments and social status. There were significant differences found in terms of physical functioning, pain and health perspective. No differences were seen in emotional or psychological outcomes. CONCLUSION The amount of military service members who contract a DNBI is significant and imposes a burden on the capacity of the medical support, readiness of deployed units and sustainability of ongoing operations. However, regarding QoL, being forced to leave their units and to be repatriated to their home country due to a DNBI seems to have no significant impact on reported psychological symptoms of distress and reintegration experiences. Future research should focus on more in-depth registration of illnesses and not combat related diseases and injuries and even longer-term outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eelco Huizinga
- Department of Surgery, Central Military Hospital, Utrecht, the Netherlands .,Defense Healthcare Organization, Ministry of Defense, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - F J Idenburg
- Defense Healthcare Organization, Ministry of Defense, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - T T C F van Dongen
- Defense Healthcare Organization, Ministry of Defense, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, Alrijne Hospital, Leiderdorp, the Netherlands
| | - R Hoencamp
- Defense Healthcare Organization, Ministry of Defense, Utrecht, the Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, Alrijne Hospital, Leiderdorp, the Netherlands.,Department of Surgery, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, the Netherlands
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Habibi S, Ayubi AG, Ohkama-Ohtsu N, Sekimoto H, Yokoyama T. Genetic Characterization of Soybean Rhizobia Isolated from Different Ecological Zones in North-Eastern Afghanistan. Microbes Environ 2017; 32:71-79. [PMID: 28321006 PMCID: PMC5371078 DOI: 10.1264/jsme2.me16119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2016] [Accepted: 01/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Seventy rhizobial isolates were obtained from the root nodules of two soybean (Glycine max) cultivars: Japanese cultivar Enrei and USA cultivar Stine3300, which were inoculated with different soil samples from Afghanistan. In order to study the genetic properties of the isolates, the DNA sequences of the 16S rRNA gene and symbiotic genes (nodD1 and nifD) were elucidated. Furthermore, the isolates were inoculated into the roots of two soybean cultivars, and root nodule numbers and nitrogen fixation abilities were subsequently evaluated in order to assess symbiotic performance. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, the Afghanistan isolates obtained from soybean root nodules were classified into two genera, Bradyrhizobium and Ensifer. Bradyrhizobium isolates accounted for 54.3% (38) of the isolates, and these isolates had a close relationship with Bradyrhizobium liaoningense and B. yuanmingense. Five out of the 38 Bradyrhizobium isolates showed a novel lineage for B. liaoningense and B. yuanmingense. Thirty-two out of the 70 isolates were identified as Ensifer fredii. An Ensifer isolate had identical nodD1 and nifD sequences to those in B. yuanmingense. This result indicated that the horizontal gene transfer of symbiotic genes occurred from Bradyrhizobium to Ensifer in Afghanistan soil. The symbiotic performance of the 14 tested isolates from the root nodules of the two soybean cultivars indicated that Bradyrhizobium isolates exhibited stronger acetylene reduction activities than Ensifer isolates. This is the first study to genetically characterize soybean-nodulating rhizobia in Afghanistan soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Safiullah Habibi
- United Graduate School of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and TechnologyJapan
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul UniversityAfghanistan
| | | | - Naoko Ohkama-Ohtsu
- Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and TechnologyJapan
| | | | - Tadashi Yokoyama
- Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and TechnologyJapan
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Soelberg J, Jäger AK. Comparative ethnobotany of the Wakhi agropastoralist and the Kyrgyz nomads of Afghanistan. J Ethnobiol Ethnomed 2016; 12:2. [PMID: 26739280 PMCID: PMC4702329 DOI: 10.1186/s13002-015-0063-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 10/24/2015] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The mountainous Wakhan and Pamir in northeastern Afghanistan is one of the most isolated yet inhabited places in Asia. It is home to the agropastoralist Wakhi and the last Afghan semi-nomadic Kyrgyz. We present a study of plant names and uses, along with comparisons of plant name etymology, origins of plant resources, intra- and intercultural exchanges and relations, and the relative availability of the known and used plants. METHODS The fieldwork was conducted as an expedition in the summer of 2010, and visited settlements and pastures in Upper Wakhan and Big and Little Pamir. Semi-structured group interviews, talks and observations gave initial data on names, uses and the relative availability of used plants, and provided foundation for individual interviews using an interview-herbarium containing vouchers of the 72 most frequently used plants or plant groups. RESULTS Wakhi and Kyrgyz plant names are recorded in western transcription, the new Wakhi alphabet, phonetically and in Cyrillic. The present study documents a large body of endemic, indigenous plant knowledge; on crops, fuel, fodder, cosmetics, dyes, vegetables, veterinary medicine, traditional medicines and other plant uses which sustain life in Wakhan and Pamir. Overall, the Wakhi use considerably more plants than the Kyrgyz, and their materia medica and use thereof is more complex. Although the Wakhi and Kyrgyz are close neighbours, there are few indications of direct knowledge transfer between them. Most shared plant uses are strictly necessary for survival in the mountains. While there are few differences between genders and cultural subgroups within the two cultures, the Wakhi and Kyrgyz exhibit great differences both in their total number of use-plants and the distance from which they obtain them. The agropastoralist Wakhi appear to have their basic needs for wild natural resources covered within half a days travel, while the relatively plant-derived environment of the high Pamir appears to have necessitated the nomadic Kyrgyz to adapt by developing uses and obtaining plants that are comparatively remote. CONCLUSION The comparative differences in plant uses between the agropastoralist Wakhi and nomadic Kyrgyz appear to be accentuated by an environment at the extreme of what is humanly possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens Soelberg
- Museum of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anna K Jäger
- Museum of Natural Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Universitetsparken 2, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Sutton B, Canyon D. The Tortoise and the Hare: Guinea Worm, Polio and the Race to Eradication. PLoS Curr 2015; 7:ecurrents. [PMID: 26401418 DOI: 10.1371/currents.outbreaks.16e2349da74ec9bdfe26cc6598bee881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: The eradication of a human infectious disease is a major challenge and, if achieved, represents a enormous achievement. This article explores the long and difficult journey towards eradication for polio and guinea worm. Methods: The authors reviewed the programmatic approaches taken in the eradication strategies for these two diseases and the unique socio-political contexts in which these strategies are couched. The epidemiology of the last 15 years is compared and contrasted. The specific challenges for both programs are outlined and some key elements for success are highlighted. Discussion: The success of these eradication programs is contingent upon many factors. Nothing is assured, and progress remains fragile and vulnerable to setbacks. Security must be ensured in guinea worm transmission areas in Africa and polio transmission areas in Pakistan and Afghanistan. Technical solutions alone cannot guarantee eradication. National leadership and continued international focus and support are necessary, today more than ever. The legacy of success would be extraordinary. It would reverberate to future generations in the same way that the eradication of smallpox does for this generation.
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Edward A, Osei-Bonsu K, Branchini C, Yarghal TS, Arwal SH, Naeem AJ. Enhancing governance and health system accountability for people centered healthcare: an exploratory study of community scorecards in Afghanistan. BMC Health Serv Res 2015; 15:299. [PMID: 26227814 PMCID: PMC4521484 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-015-0946-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2014] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The premise of patient-centered care is to empower patients to become active participants in their own care and receive health services focused on their individual needs and preferences. Afghanistan has evidenced enormous gains in coverage and utilization, but the quality of care remains suboptimal, as evidenced in the balanced scorecard (BSC) performance assessments. In the United States and throughout Africa and Asia, community scorecards (CSC) have proved effective in improving accountability and responsiveness of services. This study represents the first attempt to assess CSC feasibility in a fragile context (Afghanistan) through joint engagement of service providers and community members in the design of patient-centered services with the objective of assessing impact on service delivery and perceived quality of care. METHODS Six primary healthcare facilities were randomly selected in three provinces (Bamyan, Takhar and Nangarhar) and communities in their catchment area were selected for the study. Employing a multi-stakeholder strategy, community members and leaders, health councils, facility providers, NGO managers, and provincial directorates were engaged in a five-phase process to jointly identify structural and service delivery indicators (about 20), score performance and subsequently develop action plans for instituting improvements through participatory research methods. Three rounds of CSC assessments were conducted in each community. Over 470 community members, 34 health providers, and other provincial ministry staff participated in the performance audits. RESULTS Structural capacity indicators including the number and cadre of service providers, particularly female providers, water and power supply, waiting rooms, essential medicines, and equipment scored low in the first round (30-50%). Provider courtesy and quality of care received high scores (>90%) throughout the study. Unrealistic community demands for ambulances and specialist doctors were mitigated by community education of entitlements described in the national standards for essential package of services. The joint interface meeting facilitated transparent dialogue between the community and providers and resulted in creative and participatory problem solving mechanisms and mobilization of resources. CONCLUSION These results indicate the potential of the CSC as a tool for enhancing social accountability for patient-centered care. However, the process requires skilled facilitators to effectively engage communities and healthcare providers and adaptation to specific healthcare contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anbrasi Edward
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | | | - Casey Branchini
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21205, USA.
| | - Temor Shah Yarghal
- Future Health Systems Consultant, CBHC Department, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Witter S, Falisse JB, Bertone MP, Alonso-Garbayo A, Martins JS, Salehi AS, Pavignani E, Martineau T. State-building and human resources for health in fragile and conflict-affected states: exploring the linkages. Hum Resour Health 2015; 13:33. [PMID: 25971407 PMCID: PMC4488955 DOI: 10.1186/s12960-015-0023-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Human resources for health are self-evidently critical to running a health service and system. There is, however, a wider set of social issues which is more rarely considered. One area which is hinted at in literature, particularly on fragile and conflict-affected states, but rarely examined in detail, is the contribution which health staff may or do play in relation to the wider state-building processes. This article aims to explore that relationship, developing a conceptual framework to understand what linkages might exist and looking for empirical evidence in the literature to support, refute or adapt those linkages. METHODS An open call for contributions to the article was launched through an online community. The group then developed a conceptual framework and explored a variety of literatures (political, economic, historical, public administration, conflict and health-related) to find theoretical and empirical evidence related to the linkages outlined in the framework. Three country case reports were also developed for Afghanistan, Burundi and Timor-Leste, using secondary sources and the knowledge of the group. FINDINGS We find that the empirical evidence for most of the linkages is not strong, which is not surprising, given the complexity of the relationships. Nevertheless, some of the posited relationships are plausible, especially between development of health cadres and a strengthened public administration, which in the long run underlies a number of state-building features. The reintegration of factional health staff post-conflict is also plausibly linked to reconciliation and peace-building. The role of medical staff as part of national elites may also be important. CONCLUSIONS The concept of state-building itself is highly contested, with a rich vein of scepticism about the wisdom or feasibility of this as an external project. While recognizing the inherently political nature of these processes, systems and sub-systems, it remains the case that state-building does occur over time, driven by a combination of internal and external forces and that understanding the role played in it by the health system and health staff, particularly after conflicts and in fragile settings, is an area worth further investigation. This review and framework contribute to that debate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie Witter
- ReBUILD Programme, Institute for International Health and Development, Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Jean-Benoit Falisse
- Department of International Development & St Antony's College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
| | - Maria Paola Bertone
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine & ReBUILD Programme, London, UK.
| | | | - João S Martins
- Faculdade de Medicina e Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Nacional Timor Lorosa'e, Dili, Timor-Leste.
| | - Ahmad Shah Salehi
- Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) & Health Economics and Financing Directorate, Ministry of Public Health, Kabul, Afghanistan.
| | - Enrico Pavignani
- The School of Population Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Tim Martineau
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK.
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Speakman EM, Shafi A, Sondorp E, Atta N, Howard N. Development of the community midwifery education initiative and its influence on women's health and empowerment in Afghanistan: a case study. BMC Womens Health 2014; 14:111. [PMID: 25220577 PMCID: PMC4237830 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6874-14-111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Political transition in Afghanistan enabled reconstruction of the destroyed health system. Maternal health was prioritised due to political will and historically high mortality. However, severe shortages of skilled birth attendants--particularly in rural areas--hampered safe motherhood initiatives. The Community Midwifery Education (CME) programme began training rural midwives in 2002, scaling-up nationally in 2005. METHODS This case study analyses CME development and implementation to help determine successes and challenges. Data were collected through documentary review and key informant interviews. Content analysis was informed by Walt and Gilson's policy triangle framework. RESULTS The CME programme has contributed to consistently positive indicators, including up to a 1273/100,000 reduction in maternal mortality ratios, up to a 28% increase in skilled deliveries, and a six-fold increase in qualified midwives since 2002. Begun as a small pilot, CME has gained support of international donors, the Afghan government, and civil society. CONCLUSION CME is considered by stakeholders to be a positive model for promoting women's education, employment, and health. However, its future is threatened by insecurity, corruption, lack of regulation, and funding uncertainties. Strategic planning and resource mobilisation are required for it to achieve its potential of transforming maternal healthcare in Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Speakman
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Tavistock Place, London, UK
| | | | - Egbert Sondorp
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Tavistock Place, London, UK
- Royal Tropical Institute (KIT), Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Nooria Atta
- Kabul Medical University, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Natasha Howard
- Faculty of Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), Tavistock Place, London, UK
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Rasmussen A, Ventevogel P, Sancilio A, Eggerman M, Panter-Brick C. Comparing the validity of the self reporting questionnaire and the Afghan symptom checklist: dysphoria, aggression, and gender in transcultural assessment of mental health. BMC Psychiatry 2014; 14:206. [PMID: 25034331 PMCID: PMC4107970 DOI: 10.1186/1471-244x-14-206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The relative performance of local and international assessment instruments is subject to ongoing discussion in transcultural research on mental health and psychosocial support. We examined the construct and external validity of two instruments, one developed for use in Afghanistan, the other developed by the World Health Organization for use in resource-poor settings. METHODS We used data collected on 1003 Afghan adults (500 men, 503 women) randomly sampled at three sites in Afghanistan. We compared the 22-item Afghan Symptom Checklist (ASCL), a culturally-grounded assessment of psychosocial wellbeing, with Pashto and Dari versions of the 20-item Self-Reporting Questionnaire (SRQ-20). We derived subscales using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses (EFA and CFA) and tested total and subscale scores for external validity with respect to lifetime trauma and household wealth using block model regressions. RESULTS EFA suggested a three-factor structure for SRQ-20--somatic complaints, negative affect, and emotional numbing--and a two-factor structure for ASCL--jigar khun (dysphoria) and aggression. Both factor models were supported by CFA in separate subsamples. Women had higher scores for each of the five subscales than men (p < 0.001), and larger bivariate associations with trauma (rs .24 to .29, and .10 to .19, women and men respectively) and household wealth (rs -.27 to -.39, and .05 to -.22, respectively). The three SRQ-20 subscales and the ASCL jigar khun subscale were equally associated with variance in trauma exposures. However, interactions between gender and jigar khun suggested that, relative to SRQ-20, the jigar khun subscale was more strongly associated with household wealth for women; similarly, gender interactions with aggression indicated that the aggression subscale was more strongly associated with trauma and wealth. CONCLUSIONS Two central elements of Afghan conceptualizations of mental distress--aggression and the syndrome jigar khun--were captured by the ASCL and not by the SRQ-20. The appropriateness of the culturally-grounded instrument was more salient for women, indicating that the validity of instruments may be gender-differentiated. Transcultural validation processes for tools measuring mental distress need to explicitly take gender into account. Culturally relevant measures are worth developing for long-term psychosocial programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Rasmussen
- Fordham University, Dealy Hall 226, 441 East Fordham Rd, Bronx, NY 11215, USA
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Szema AM, Reeder RJ, Harrington AD, Schmidt M, Liu J, Golightly M, Rueb T, Hamidi SA. Iraq dust is respirable, sharp, and metal-laden and induces lung inflammation with fibrosis in mice via IL-2 upregulation and depletion of regulatory T cells. J Occup Environ Med 2014; 56:243-51. [PMID: 24603199 PMCID: PMC4037815 DOI: 10.1097/jom.0000000000000119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Determine whether surface dust grab samples taken from a large military base in Iraq are toxic and respirable. METHODS X-ray diffraction for mineral content, x-ray fluorescence for elemental content, in vivo mouse dust challenges for assessment of histological changes, bronchoalveolar lavage for cytokines, polarizing light microscopy for crystals in lung tissue, and Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting for cell surface and intracellular markers were utilized. RESULTS Camp Victory, Iraq dust taken during wartime contains respirable particles 2.5 microns in size, constituting particulate matter air pollution. Dust particles are angular and have sharp edges. Trace metals (including titanium) calcium and silicon are present. Mice with airway instillation of dust have polarizable crystals in lung and septate inflammation. Regulatory T cells (CD4⁺CD25⁺FOXP3⁺) are decreased in thymus and spleen. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is upregulated in bronchoalveolar lavage. CONCLUSIONS Respirable Iraq dust leads to lung inflammation in mice similar to that seen in patients with polarizable crystals, which seem to be titanium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M. Szema
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
| | | | | | | | - Jingxuan Liu
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Marc Golightly
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Todd Rueb
- Department of Pathology, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
| | - Sayyed A. Hamidi
- Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University School of Medicine, Stony Brook, NY
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Fogarty L, Kim YM, Juon HS, Tappis H, Noh JW, Zainullah P, Rozario A. Job satisfaction and retention of health-care providers in Afghanistan and Malawi. Hum Resour Health 2014; 12:11. [PMID: 24533615 PMCID: PMC3930828 DOI: 10.1186/1478-4491-12-11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study describes job satisfaction and intention to stay on the job among primary health-care providers in countries with distinctly different human resources crises, Afghanistan and Malawi. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, we enrolled 87 health-care providers in 32 primary health-care facilities in Afghanistan and 360 providers in 10 regional hospitals in Malawi. The study questionnaire was used to assess job satisfaction, intention to stay on the job and five features of the workplace environment: resources, performance recognition, financial compensation, training opportunities and safety. Descriptive analyses, exploratory factor analyses for scale development, bivariate correlation analyses and bivariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS The multivariate model for Afghanistan, with demographic, background and work environment variables, explained 23.9% of variance in job satisfaction (F(9,73) = 5.08; P < 0.01). However, none of the work environment variables were significantly related to job satisfaction. The multivariate model for intention to stay for Afghanistan explained 23.6% of variance (F(8,74) = 4.10; P < 0.01). Those with high scores for recognition were more likely to have higher intention to stay (β = 0.328, P < 0.05). However, being paid an appropriate salary was negatively related to intent to stay (β = -0.326, P < 0.01). For Malawi, the overall model explained only 9.8% of variance in job satisfaction (F(8,332) = 4.19; P < 0.01) and 9.1% of variance in intention to stay (F(10,330) = 3.57; P < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The construction of concepts of health-care worker satisfaction and intention to stay on the job are highly dependent on the local context. Although health-care workers in both Afghanistan and Malawi reported satisfaction with their jobs, the predictors of satisfaction, and the extent to which those predictors explained variations in job satisfaction and intention to stay on the job, differed substantially. These findings demonstrate the need for more detailed comparative human resources for health-care research, particularly regarding the relative importance of different determinants of job satisfaction and intention to stay in different contexts and the effectiveness of interventions designed to improve health-care worker performance and retention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Fogarty
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames St., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Young Mi Kim
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames St., Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hee-Soon Juon
- Department of Health, Behavior and Society, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, 624 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Hannah Tappis
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, The Johns Hopkins University, 615 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Jin Won Noh
- Department of Healthcare Management, Eulji University, 212 Yangji-dong, Sujeong-gu, Seongnam, Korea
| | - Partamin Zainullah
- Jhpiego/Afghanistan, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, Share-Naw Street 3, House 265, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Aleisha Rozario
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames St., Baltimore, MD, USA
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Kim YM, Ansari N, Kols A, Tappis H, Currie S, Zainullah P, Bailey P, Semba R, Sun K, van Roosmalen J, Stekelenburg J. Assessing the capacity for newborn resuscitation and factors associated with providers' knowledge and skills: a cross-sectional study in Afghanistan. BMC Pediatr 2013; 13:140. [PMID: 24020392 PMCID: PMC3846444 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2431-13-140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2013] [Accepted: 09/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resuscitation with bag and mask is a high-impact intervention that can reduce neonatal deaths in resource-poor countries. This study assessed the capacity to perform newborn resuscitation at facilities offering comprehensive emergency obstetric and newborn care (EmONC) in Afghanistan, as well as individual and facility characteristics associated with providers' knowledge and clinical skills. METHODS Assessors interviewed 82 doctors and 142 midwives at 78 facilities on their knowledge of newborn resuscitation and observed them perform the procedure on an anatomical model. Supplies, equipment, and infrastructure were assessed at each facility. Descriptive statistics and simple and multivariate regression analyses were performed using STATA 11.2 and SAS 9.1.3. RESULTS Over 90% of facilities had essential equipment for newborn resuscitation, including a mucus extractor, bag, and mask. More than 80% of providers had been trained on newborn resuscitation, but midwives were more likely than doctors to receive such training as part of pre-service education (59% and 35%, respectively, p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between doctors and midwives on knowledge, clinical skills, or confidence in performing newborn resuscitation. Doctors and midwives scored 71% and 66%, respectively, on knowledge questions and 66% and 71% on the skills assessment; 75% of doctors and 83% of midwives felt very confident in their ability to perform newborn resuscitation. Training was associated with greater knowledge (p < 0.001) and clinical skills (p < 0.05) in a multivariable model that adjusted for facility type, provider type, and years of experience offering EmONC services. CONCLUSIONS Lack of equipment and training do not pose major barriers to newborn resuscitation in Afghanistan, but providers' knowledge and skills need strengthening in some areas. Midwives proved to be as capable as doctors of performing newborn resuscitation, which validates the major investment made in midwifery education. Competency-based pre-service and in-service training, complemented by supportive supervision, is an effective way to build providers' capacity to perform newborn resuscitation. This kind of training could also help skilled birth attendants based in the community, at private clinics, or at primary care facilities save the lives of newborns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Kim
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Nasratullah Ansari
- Jhpiego/Afghanistan, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Adrienne Kols
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Hannah Tappis
- Johns Hopkins School of Public Health (JHSPH), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Sheena Currie
- Jhpiego/USA, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Partamin Zainullah
- Jhpiego/Afghanistan, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Patricia Bailey
- FHI 360 and Averting Maternal Death & Disability, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Richard Semba
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institute (JHMI), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kai Sun
- Johns Hopkins Medical Institute (JHMI), Baltimore, MD, USA
| | | | - Jelle Stekelenburg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Leeuwarden Medical Center, Leeuwarden, The Netherlands
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Drožđek B, Kamperman AM, Tol WA, Knipscheer JW, Kleber RJ. Is legal status impacting outcomes of group therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder with male asylum seekers and refugees from Iran and Afghanistan? BMC Psychiatry 2013; 13:148. [PMID: 23705873 DOI: 10.1186/1471-244X-13-148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2013] [Accepted: 05/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Legal status and other resettlement stressors are known to impact mental health of asylum seekers and refugees. However, the ways in which they interact with treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with these populations is still poorly understood. The aim of this study was to examine whether legal status and other resettlement stressors influence outcomes of a trauma-focused group PTSD treatment within a day-treatment setting with asylum seekers and refugees. METHODS Sixty six male Iranian and Afghan patients with PTSD residing in the Netherlands were assessed with self-rated symptom checklists for PTSD, anxiety and depression, and a demographic questionnaire one week before and two weeks after the treatment. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to examine the impact of legal status and living arrangements on the treatment outcomes per symptom domain. RESULTS The results suggest that both asylum seekers and refugees can be helped with their mental health complaints with a trauma-focused group therapy for PTSD regardless of their legal status. Obtaining a refugee status in a course of the treatment appears to improve the treatment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Legal status is impacting outcomes of group therapy for PTSD with male asylum seekers and refugees. Asylum seekers may benefit from group treatment regardless of unstable living conditions.
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Rahmani Z, Brekke M. Antenatal and obstetric care in Afghanistan--a qualitative study among health care receivers and health care providers. BMC Health Serv Res 2013; 13:166. [PMID: 23642217 PMCID: PMC3654902 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6963-13-166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite attempts from the government to improve ante- and perinatal care, Afghanistan has once again been labeled "the worst country in which to be a mom" in Save the Children's World's Mothers' Report. This study investigated how pregnant women and health care providers experience the existing antenatal and obstetric health care situation in Afghanistan. METHODS Data were obtained through one-to-one semi-structured interviews of 27 individuals, including 12 women who were pregnant or had recently given birth, seven doctors, five midwives, and three traditional birth attendants. The interviews were carried out in Kabul and the village of Ramak in Ghazni Province. Interviews were taped, transcribed, and analyzed according to the principles of Giorgi's phenomenological analysis. RESULTS Antenatal care was reported to be underused, even when available. Several obstacles were identified, including a lack of knowledge regarding the importance of antenatal care among the women and their families, financial difficulties, and transportation problems. The women also reported significant dissatisfaction with the attitudes and behavior of health personnel, which included instances of verbal and physical abuse. According to the health professionals, poor working conditions, low salaries, and high stress levels contributed to this matter. Personal contacts inside the hospital were considered necessary for receiving high quality care, and bribery was customary. Despite these serious concerns, the women expressed gratitude for having even limited access to health care, especially treatment provided by a female doctor. Health professionals were proud of their work and enjoyed the opportunity to help their community. CONCLUSION This study identified several obstacles which must be addressed to improve reproductive health in Afghanistan. There was limited understanding of the importance of antenatal care and a lack of family support. Financial and transportation problems led to underuse of available care, especially by poorly educated rural women. Patients frequently complained of being treated disrespectfully, and health care providers correspondingly complained about poor working conditions leading to exhaustion and a lack of compassion. Widespread corruption, including the necessity of personal contacts inside hospitals, was also emphasized as an obstacle to equitable antenatal and obstetric health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuhal Rahmani
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway, Blindern, P.O. Box 1078, Oslo, 0316, Norway
| | - Mette Brekke
- Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, P.O. Box 1130, Blindern, Oslo, 0318, Norway
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Abstract
Since September 11, 2001, 2.4 million military personnel have deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. To date, roughly 1.44 million have separated from the military and approximately 772,000 of these veterans have used VA health care. Combat deployments impact the physical, psychological, and social health of veterans. Given that many veterans are receiving care from non-VA providers, it is important that all community health care workers be familiar with the unique health care needs of this patient population, which include injuries associated with blast exposures (including mild traumatic brain injury), as well as a variety of mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder. Other important health concerns are chronic musculoskeletal pain, medically unexplained symptoms, sequelae of environmental exposures, depression, suicide, substance abuse, sleep disturbances, and impairments in family, occupational and social functioning. Elevated rates of hypertension and tobacco use remind us that deployment may result not only in immediate impacts on health, but also increase risk for chronic disease, contributing to a growing public health burden. This paper provides a comprehensive review of these health concerns and offers practical management guidelines for primary care providers. In light of relationships between physical, psychological and psychosocial concerns in this population, we recommend an interdisciplinary approach to care directed toward mitigating the long-term health impacts of combat.
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Gupta S, Shuaib M, Becker S, Rahman MM, Peters DH. Multiple indicator cluster survey 2003 in Afghanistan: outdated sampling frame and the effect of sampling weights on estimates of maternal and child health coverage. J Health Popul Nutr 2011; 29:388-399. [PMID: 21957678 PMCID: PMC3190370 DOI: 10.3329/jhpn.v29i4.8456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Due to an urgent need for information on the coverage of health service for women and children after the fall of Taliban regime in Afghanistan, a multiple indicator cluster survey (MICS) was conducted in 2003 using the outdated 1979 census as the sampling frame. When 2004 pre-census data became available, population-sampling weights were generated based on the survey-sampling scheme. Using these weights, the population estimates for seven maternal and child healthcare-coverage indicators were generated and compared with the unweighted MICS 2003 estimates. The use of sample weights provided unbiased estimates of population parameters. Results of the comparison of weighted and unweighted estimates showed some wide differences for individual provincial estimates and confidence intervals. However, the mean, median and absolute mean of the differences between weighted and unweighted estimates and their confidence intervals were close to zero for all indicators at the national level. Ranking of the five highest and the five lowest provinces on weighted and unweighted estimates also yielded similar results. The general consistency of results suggests that outdated sampling frames can be appropriate for use in similar situations to obtain initial estimates from household surveys to guide policy and programming directions. However, the power to detect change from these estimates is lower than originally planned, requiring a greater tolerance for error when the data are used as a baseline for evaluation. The generalizability of using outdated sampling frames in similar settings is qualified by the specific characteristics of the MICS 2003-low replacement rate of clusters and zero probability of inclusion of clusters created after the 1979 census.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivam Gupta
- Department of International Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 615 N Wolfe Street, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Abstract
There is a notable dearth of data about Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) prevalence in Afghanistan. Awareness program and research capacity in the field of hepatitis are very limited in Afghanistan. Number of vulnerabilities and patterns of risk behaviors signal the need to take action now. Thirty one studies dating from October 2003 to 2011 were included, consisting the data of 132,981 individuals for HBV and 132,500 individuals for HCV. Percentage prevalence was 1.9% for HBV and 1.1% for HCV in all available Afghanistan population. Most at risk population to hepatitis include injecting drug users who share needles and female sex workers, while truck drivers, prisoners and homosexual men needs attention, as their statistical figure are missing. Data suggests that high incidence of intravenous drug use, sexual activities, unsafe blood transfusion procedures and mobility are major risk factors for hepatitis transmission. This review is based on analysis of the limited available data in Afghanistan. Although there are many underlying vulnerability factors, it appears that Afghanistan remains at an early epidemic phase. Further research is required to determine the seroprevalence and prevalent genotype(s) of HBV and HCV in all provinces in Afghanistan. This article provides some key insights into the potential and likely future transmission dynamics of hepatitis which will serve as a guide in the identification of priority areas in term of high risk groups and risk behaviours in the country and will assist to develop urgent strategic plans to combat the future burden of hepatitis in Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanaullah Khan
- Molecular Parasitology and Virology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Kohat University of Science and Technology, Kohat 26000, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
| | - Sobia Attaullah
- Department of Zoology, Islamia College Peshawar (A Public Sector University), University Campus, Jamrod Road, Peshawar 25120, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
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Lind A, Edward A, Bonhoure P, Mustafa L, Hansen P, Burnham G, Peters DH. Quality of outpatient hospital care for children under 5 years in Afghanistan. Int J Qual Health Care 2011; 23:108-16. [PMID: 21242157 PMCID: PMC3115619 DOI: 10.1093/intqhc/mzq081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/28/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the quality of outpatient hospital care for children under 5 years in Afghanistan. DESIGN Case management observations were conducted on 10-12 children under five selected by systematic random sampling in 31 outpatient hospital clinics across the country, followed by interviews with caretakers and providers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Quality of care defined as adherence to the clinical standards described in the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness. RESULTS Overall quality of outpatient care for children was suboptimal based on patient examination and caretaker counseling (median score: 27.5 on a 100 point scale). Children receiving care from female providers had better care than those seen by male providers (OR: 6.6, 95% CI: 2.0-21.9, P = 0.002), and doctors provided better quality of care than other providers (OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1-6.4, P = 0.02). The poor were more likely to receive better care in hospitals managed by non-governmental organizations than those managed by other mechanisms (OR: 15.2, 95% CI: 1.2-200.1, P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS Efforts to strengthen optimal care provision at peripheral health clinics must be complemented with investments at the referral and tertiary care facilities to ensure care continuity. The findings of improved care by female providers, doctors and NGO's for poor patients, warrant further empirical evidence on care determinants. Optimizing care quality at referral hospitals is one of the prerequisites to ensure service utilization and outcomes for the achievement of the Child health Millennium Development Goals for Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Lind
- University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Anbrasi Edward
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Philippe Bonhoure
- European Commission Directorate-General for Humanitarian Aid and Civil Protection, India
| | | | | | - Gilbert Burnham
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - David H. Peters
- Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Kassam KA, Karamkhudoeva M, Ruelle M, Baumflek M. Medicinal Plant Use and Health Sovereignty: Findings from the Tajik and Afghan Pamirs. Hum Ecol Interdiscip J 2010; 38:817-829. [PMID: 21258436 PMCID: PMC3003150 DOI: 10.1007/s10745-010-9356-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants are indicators of indigenous knowledge in the context of political volatility and sociocultural and ecological change in the Pamir Mountains of Afghanistan and Tajikistan. Medicinal plants are the primary health care option in this region of Central Asia. The main objective of this paper is to demonstrate that medicinal plants contribute to health security and sovereignty in a time of instability. We illustrate the nutritional as well as medicinal significance of plants in the daily lives of villagers. Based on over a decade and half of research related to resilience and livelihood security, we present plant uses in the context of mountain communities. Villagers identified over 58 cultivated and noncultivated plants and described 310 distinct uses within 63 categories of treatment and prevention. Presence of knowledge about medicinal plants is directly connected to their use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Munira Karamkhudoeva
- Pamir Biological Institute, Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Tajikistan, Khorog, Republic of Tajikistan
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Jakupcak M, Vannoy S, Imel Z, Cook JW, Fontana A, Rosenheck R, McFall M. Does PTSD moderate the relationship between social support and suicide risk in Iraq and Afghanistan War Veterans seeking mental health treatment? Depress Anxiety 2010; 27:1001-5. [PMID: 20721901 PMCID: PMC3038554 DOI: 10.1002/da.20722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2010] [Revised: 05/27/2010] [Accepted: 05/29/2010] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a potential moderating variable in the relationship between social support and elevated suicide risk in a sample of treatment-seeking Iraq and Afghanistan War Veterans. METHOD As part of routine care, self-reported marital status, satisfaction with social networks, PTSD, and recent suicidality were assessed in Veterans (N=431) referred for mental health services at a large Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Logistic regression analyses were conducted using this cross-sectional data sample to test predictions of diminished influence of social support on suicide risk in Veterans reporting PTSD. RESULTS Thirteen percent of Veterans were classified as being at elevated risk for suicide. Married Veterans were less likely to be at elevated suicide risk relative to unmarried Veterans and Veterans reporting greater satisfaction with their social networks were less likely to be at elevated risk relative to Veterans reporting lower satisfaction. Satisfaction with social networks was protective for suicide risk in PTSD and non-PTSD cases, but was significantly less protective for veterans reporting PTSD. CONCLUSIONS Veterans who are married and Veterans who report greater satisfaction with social networks are less likely to endorse suicidal thoughts or behaviors suggestive of elevated suicide risk. However, the presence of PTSD may diminish the protective influence of social networks among treatment-seeking Veterans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Jakupcak
- VISN 20 Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Seattle, Washington, USA.
| | - Steven Vannoy
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Zac Imel
- VISN 20 Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Seattle, Washington,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
| | - Jessica W. Cook
- Center for Tobacco Research and Intervention, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Alan Fontana
- VISN 1 New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, New England,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Robert Rosenheck
- VISN 1 New England Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, New England,Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Miles McFall
- VISN 20 Northwest Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center, Seattle, Washington,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington
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Balsara ZP, Wu I, Marsh DR, Ihsan AT, Nazir R, Owoso E, Robinson C, Darmstadt GL. Reproductive tract disorders among Afghan refugee women attending health clinics in Haripur, Pakistan. J Health Popul Nutr 2010; 28:501-508. [PMID: 20941902 PMCID: PMC2963773 DOI: 10.3329/jhpn.v28i5.6159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Afghans comprise one of the largest groups of refugees in the world, with the majority living in Pakistan. The objective of this study was to identify commonly-occurring reproductive tract infections (RTIs), describe knowledge of women about RTIs, and assess physical and behavioural factors contributing to the development of RTIs. Afghan women presenting at Basic Health Units in refugee camps in Haripur, Pakistan, with reproductive health-related complaints, were included in the study (n=634). Data collection included implementation of an interviewer-administered questionnaire, along with a physical examination and laboratory tests. A descriptive analysis was conducted first. Qualitative data were coded and analyzed using predetermined themes. Chi-square test was used for determining the possible relationships between a binary outcome and categorical risk factors. Over three-fourths (76.7%) of those who reported to the health clinics with reproductive complaints had an RTI. Nearly half (49.5%) of these women were diagnosed with some form of vaginitis, and 14.7% were diagnosed with clinical suspicion of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). Women with cervical prolapse (p = 0.033) or who cleansed after intercourse (p = 0.002) were more likely to have vaginitis. There was a significant difference (p = 0.017) in the prevalence of suspected PID among women who used mud only (11.1%), any water (18.8%), and an old cloth or toilet paper (9.8%) for cleansing after defaecation. Specific physical and behavioural contributors to the high prevalence of RTIs in this population were identified, and recommendations to ameliorate these factors are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z P Balsara
- Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Eggerman M, Panter-Brick C. Suffering, hope, and entrapment: resilience and cultural values in Afghanistan. Soc Sci Med 2010; 71:71-83. [PMID: 20452111 PMCID: PMC3125115 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2010.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2009] [Revised: 03/12/2010] [Accepted: 03/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
A critical health-related issue in war-affected areas is how people make sense of adversity and why they show resilience in a high-risk environment. In Afghanistan, the burden of poor mental health arises in contexts of pervasive poverty, social inequality, and persistent violence. In 2006, we conducted face-to-face interviews with 1011 children (age 11-16) and 1011 adult caregivers, randomly selected in a school-based survey in three northern and central areas. Participants narrated their experiences as part of a systematic health survey, including an open-ended questionnaire on major life stressors and solutions to mitigate them. Responses were analysed using an inductive thematic approach and categorised for quantitative presentation, producing a conceptual model. For adults, the primary concern is repairing their "broken economy," the root of all miseries in social, educational, governance, and health domains. For students, frustrations focus on learning environments as well as poverty, as education is perceived as the gateway to upward social and economic mobility. Hope arises from a sense of moral and social order embodied in the expression of key cultural values: faith, family unity, service, effort, morals, and honour. These values form the bedrock of resilience, drive social aspirations, and underpin self-respect and dignity. However, economic impediments, social expectations, and cultural dictates also combine to create entrapment, as the ability to realise personal and social aspirations is frustrated by structural inequalities injurious to health and wellbeing. This study contributes to a small but growing body of work on resilience in public health and conflict settings. It demonstrates that culture functions both as an anchor for resilience and an anvil of pain, and highlights the relevance of ethnographic work in identifying what matters most in formulating social and public health policies to promote a hopeful future.
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Todd CS, Stibich MA, Stanekzai MR, Rasuli MZ, Bayan S, Wardak SR, Strathdee SA. A qualitative assessment of injection drug use and harm reduction programmes in Kabul, Afghanistan: 2006-2007. Int J Drug Policy 2009; 20:111-20. [PMID: 18207381 PMCID: PMC7201369 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2007.11.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2007] [Revised: 11/20/2007] [Accepted: 11/27/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this paper was to examine the context of injection drug use in Kabul, Afghanistan among injection drug users (IDUs) utilising and not utilising needle and syringe programmes (NSPs). METHODS Following identification of themes from eight focus group discussions, free-lists were used for further exploration with both NSP using (n=30) and non-NSP using (n=31) IDUs. RESULTS All participants were male, had been injecting for 5 years (mean), and most (95%) had been refugees in the past decade. Main reasons for sharing syringes were convenience and lack of availability and did not vary based on NSP use. Drug users perceived alienation from the community, evidenced by names used for drug users by the community which convey social stigma and moral judgment. Health risks were the principal stated risk associated with drug use, which was mentioned more frequently by NSP users. Harm reduction services available in Kabul are perceived to be insufficient for those in need of services, resulting in under utilisation. The limited scope and distribution of services was frequently cited both as an area for improvement among NSP using IDU or as a reason not to use existing programmes. CONCLUSIONS While some positive differences emerged among NSP-using IDU, the current context indicates that both rapid scale-up and increased variety of services, particularly in the realm of addiction treatment, are urgently needed in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine S Todd
- Division of International Health & Cross-Cultural Medicine, University of California, 9500 Gilman Drive, Mailstop 0622, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92093-0622, USA.
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Todd CS, Abed AMS, Scott PT, Safi N, Earhart KC, Strathdee SA. A cross-sectional assessment of utilization of addiction treatment among injection drug users in Kabul, Afghanistan. Subst Use Misuse 2009; 44:416-30. [PMID: 18979391 PMCID: PMC7153687 DOI: 10.1080/10826080802347669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to describe prior use of detoxification and addiction-treatment programs among injection drug users (IDUs) in Kabul, Afghanistan. From 2005-2006, IDUs (n = 464) recruited into this cross-sectional study completed an interviewer-administered questionnaire and whole blood rapid testing with fingerstick samples for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis C antibody and B surface antigen testing. Participants were predominantly male (99.8%), Afghan (98.9%), and had little formal education. Correlates of detoxification and addiction treatment were identified with logistic regression. The majority (94.0%, n = 435) felt great/urgent need for treatment, of whom 56.3% (n = 245) reported inability to access treatment. Prior detoxification was associated with new needle use with each injection (AOR = 1.91, 95% CI: 1.12-3.26) and prior incarceration (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.04-3.13). The study's limitations are noted. Rapid scale-up and subsidy of needle and syringe programs and opioid agonist treatment is urgently needed in Kabul.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine S Todd
- Department of Family & Preventive Medicine, University of California, San Diego, California, USA.
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Abstract
We studied prevalence and correlates of injection drug use, awareness of human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), and risky behaviors among drug users serviced by a nongovernmental organization catering to drug users in three Pakistani cities (Quetta, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify correlates of injection drug use. Of 608 drug users, 99.8% were male; median age was 32 years, and 44% were married. Most (79.8%) were Pakistani; 15.3% were Afghani. The majority used heroin (98.7%), mostly by inhalation; 15.2% injected drugs. Only 41% had heard of HIV/AIDS, and 30% had been paid for donating blood. Injection drug use and needle sharing were highest in Quetta. Injecting drug users (IDUs) were nearly twice as likely to have donated blood and to have heard about HIV/AIDS compared to other drug users. Interventions to discourage transitions to injection, increase HIV testing, and safeguard the blood supply in Pakistan are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Abrar Ahmed
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, 21205 Baltimore, MD
| | | | - Heena Brahmbhatt
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, 21205 Baltimore, MD
| | | | | | - Joseph C. Bareta
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, 21205 Baltimore, MD
| | - Steffanie A. Strathdee
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, 615 North Wolfe Street, 21205 Baltimore, MD
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Abstract
A prevalence survey in Kabul City showed that 2.7% and 21.9% of persons have active leishmaniasis lesions or scars, respectively. Incidence of disease was estimated to be 2.9% (29 cases/1,000 persons per year; 95% confidence interval 0.018 to 0.031). Disease was associated with age and gender; logistic regression analyses showed significant clustering of cases.
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