Child Media Net

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Adults inside the Gulf Coast location of Mississippi have experienced increased rates of chronic diseases such as hypertension since Hurricane Katrina, and children in the location have experienced increased rates of mental health problems, according to study recently released by the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University as well as the Children’s Health Fund, the New York Times reports. For the study, researchers conducted interviews with families in the Gulf Coast location of Mississippi who live in private trailer parks, in Federal Emergency Management Agency trailer parks or in trailers on their own properties one year right after the hurricane, which occurred in August 2005. The study found that the rate of hypertension diagnoses amongst adults increased by far more than one-third since the hurricane. In addition, the study found that diagnoses of depression and anxiety among children increased by 400% since the hurricane. According towards the Times, the study “showed no improvement since a survey in Louisiana six months earlier.” Irwin Redlener, director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at the Mailman School of Public Health and co-founder with the Children’s Health Fund, stated that a lack of leadership and inconsistent private donations have led to an unequal distribution of help for Gulf Coast residents since the hurricane. He stated, “It’s not a lack of money. It’s a lack of distribution of the resources. We have a completely dysfunctional distribution system and a great deal of bureaucracy.” Redlener added, “For all the practical purposes, these FEMA trailer parks are in fact internal refugee camps. Families are mired in these horrendous conditions with no sense of when this is going to be over, either inside the minds of the families or within the officials responsible for them” (Dewan, New York Times, 2/2).

“Reprinted with permission from http://www.kaisernetwork.org. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at http://www.kaisernetwork.org/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork.org, a free service with the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation . ? 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.

three.five (two votes)

Healthcare Prof:

3 (1 votes)

You see it in movies or even though viewing your favorite sitcom; a scene in the doctor’s office exactly where the character inevitably gets a small woozy which results in a fainting spell. It could seem funny when watching it all unfold on television, but based on a study within the May/June 2008 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry’s (AGD) clinical, peer-reviewed journal, this type of reaction, in genuine life settings, these breath-holding scenarios are probably the most typical emergency scenario within the dental office.

This condition is recognized as vasovagal syncope and lead author of the study, Rubia Kapusta, DDS, MS, explains that both dentists and patients ought to be aware of the signs and be prepared in case it occurs. Vasovagal syncope is characterized by a loss of consciousness and muscle tone, which typically are preceded by non-specific symptoms that last anywhere from a few seconds to a minute. These symptoms result from alterations in the nervous program that will include dizziness, lightheadedness, paleness, palpitations, nausea, sweating, hyperventilation and adjustments in vision.

According to Dr. Kapusta, “Any patient who experiences a syncope reaction might have an underlying trigger that may predispose him or her to a life-threatening situation.”

It is regarded as essentially the most frequent clinical problem that occurs amongst patients of all ages, affecting 3.five percent of the general population. Emotional stress, anxiety, discomfort, fatigue and becoming in a hot and crowded environment can result in vasovagal syncope.

“It is not uncommon for patients to expertise some anxiety when visiting their general dentist,” says AGD spokesperson, Melvin Pierson, DDS. “Yet, you will find ways to lessen the possibility of an anxiety-related incident.” Dr. Pierson encourages patients to discuss with their general dentist any fears they may have, and when seeing a dentist for the very first time, schedule a preliminary pay a visit to.

“Asking questions and requesting informational supplies can support you get a greater understanding of your dental service or remedy,” says Dr. Pierson. “General dentists are trained to answer questions and tell you what to expect to support you really feel comfortable.”

If the signs and symptoms of vasovagal syncope do occur, the dental procedure will likely be quickly stopped and treatment provided as soon as achievable.

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The AGD is a expert association of far more than 35,000 general dentists dedicated to staying up-to-date in the profession by means of continuing education. Founded in 1952, the AGD has grown to grow to be the world’s second largest dental association, which could be the only association that exclusively represents the needs and interests of general dentists.

More than 786,000 persons are employed directly in the field of general dentistry. A general dentist could be the primary care provider for patients of all ages and is responsible for the diagnosis, therapy, management and overall coordination of services related to patients’ oral well being wants.

Source: Stefanie Schroeder
Academy of General Dentistry

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The Boston Globe on Monday reported on an internal inspector general investigation into the business expense practices of the executive director of the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. According towards the Globe‘s description with the investigation, which was completed in August 2006, Global Fund Executive Director Richard Feachem has “made extensive use of a little-known private bank account, spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on limousines, expensive meals, boat cruises along with other expenses.” According to the Globe, a separate investigation by the World Health Organization also “raised concerns” over use with the account. Global Fund spokesperson Jon Liden stated, “These expenses are reasonable and necessary for carrying out the business with the Global Fund,” adding that the report is of “extraordinarily poor quality in terms of accuracy, context and fairness. We have nothing to hide.” (Donnelly, Boston Globe, 2/5) The Global Fund in a release on Monday provided comments and clarifications on a “number of untrue or misleading statements” created within the Globe article (Global Fund release, 2/5).

“Reprinted with permission from http://www.kaisernetwork.org. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at http://www.kaisernetwork.org/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork.org, a free service of the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation . ? 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.

Healthcare Prof:

As the anniversary of the shootings at the Von Maur department store in Omaha approaches, some people might have much more thoughts, feelings, and memories about the event, based on Scot Adams, Ph.D., director of the Division of Behavioral Health inside the Department of Wellness and Human Services (DHHS), Nebraska.

“It’s widespread to really feel grief and sadness again, and the reminders can create fear, anxiety and even anger or guilt,” Adams stated. “On a more positive note, anniversaries can also give folks and communities an opportunity for extra healing. It truly is a time to pause and appreciate family, pals, and others.”

For a lot more details about how to cope with traumatic events, click here.

“There are things you are able to do to aid your self and other people as this anniversary approaches,” stated Blaine Shaffer, M.D., Chief Clinical Officer for the Division of Behavioral Wellness. “Participate in community remembrances or commemorations and talk to someone you trust about what you’re feeling. Remember that many people will be okay with support from loved ones and pals.”

Shaffer urged anyone experiencing a severe emotional reaction towards the anniversary to reach out for assist. To locate mental well being providers in the Omaha area during this difficult time, contact Behavioral Health Region 6 at (402) 444-6573, or call United Way’s 2-1-1 for info about other resources.

Nebraska Department of Health & Human Services

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President Bush on Monday released his $2.8 trillion fiscal year 2008 budget proposal, which would allocate $5.4 billion for the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, the Wall Street Journal reports (Phillips, Wall Street Journal, 2/6). Bush’s budget proposal would allocate $4.two billion for treatment, prevention and care initiatives to PEPFAR’s 15 focus countries, as well as an additional $1.2 billion for global HIV/AIDS programs, disease research and contributions to partner organizations (President’s FY 2008 budget, 2/5). Included in the PEPFAR budget, Bush has asked for $300 million for the Global Fund To Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria and $491 million for other activities, including TB programs (PEPFAR.gov release, 2/2). In addition to the PEPFAR funding, the budget proposal would provide $300 million for the President’s Malaria Initiative and ongoing malaria programs worldwide (President’s FY 2008 budget, 2/5). The budget proposal also calls for $3 billion for the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a program meant to encourage economic and political reforms in developing countries, VOA News reports (VOA News, 2/5). Bush’s budget proposal comes a week soon after the House voted 286-140 to approve a $463 billion spending resolution (HJ Res 20) for FY 2007 that includes a $1.three billion increase for PEPFAR. The resolution would bring the total for PEPFAR to $4.5 billion and would allocate $724 million for the U.S. contribution towards the Global Fund. In addition, $248 million would be allocated to expand programs under PMI, an increase of $149 million. The Senate is expected to consider the bill this week (Kaiser Daily HIV/AIDS Report, 2/2). “The Global fund will require $1.4 billion from the U.S., as well as added funding from the rest of the world,” Friends with the Global Fight President Jack Valenti said, adding, “We are concerned that without additional funds, a lot of folks will die. Inside the upcoming year, I look forward to working with the [Bush] administration and Congress to fully fund the Global Fund and the president’s programs” (Friends with the Global Fight release, 2/5).

“Reprinted with permission from http://www.kaisernetwork.org. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at http://www.kaisernetwork.org/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork.org, a free service of the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation . ? 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.

Healthcare Prof:

4 (1 votes)

Almost a third of registered aged care nurses are considering quitting within the subsequent year as a result of job stress, says a brand new University of Melbourne study.

The study, conducted by the Centre for Human Resource Management at the University of Melbourne and also the Australian Nursing Federation finds Victoria’s registered nurses in Victoria’s aged care sector are “emotionally exhausted” and not committed to their workplace.

It cites excessive workloads, price cutting, a hostile work environment and competing role demands as causing the anxiety.

The study was based on a survey of over 1000 registered nurses and personal care workers in Victoria last year.

University of Melbourne researchers Associate Professor Leisa Sargent, Professor Bill Harley and Ms Belinda Allen say the study also reveals that aged care facilities need to have to drastically boost their coaching and human resource management.

“Facilities that offer much more coaching, have rigorous recruitment, selection and performance management practices and developed grievance procedures benefit from staff who’ve a more positive attitude toward their function and far better physical and mental wellness outcomes.

“Workers at these facilities also reported that the good quality of care supplied for residents was better than workers at facilities where there were poor human resource management practices and high levels of expense cutting in relation to staffing levels. In particular having fewer residents for each and every nurse to care for was related to much less frequent medication errors.”

Associate Professor Sargent says existing Commonwealth funding arrangements for nursing homes, introduced in 1997, have placed pressure on operators to cut costs.

“The rapidly-ageing population in Australia is placing an unprecedented strain on aged-care provision and it seems likely this pressure will continue in coming years,” she says.

“This pressure is most likely to further damage the high quality of working life for staff and undermine resident care.”

A report on the findings will be presented in the Australian Nursing Federation’s Aged Care Nurses Conference in Melbourne right now (Friday), to be opened by the Federal Minister for Aging, Justine Elliot.

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The researchers have received funding from the Australian Analysis Council to further investigate these findings more than the next two years.

Source: David Scott
University of Melbourne

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The World Bank plans to provide Thailand using a $750,000, three-year grant aimed at providing HIV-positive individuals with increased access to antiretroviral drugs, Viroj Tangcharoensathien, program director for international health policy at the country’s Ministry of Public Health, stated recently, Thailand’s Nation reports. Much more than 130,000 HIV-positive people in Thailand need access to antiretrovirals, and also the number is increasing annually, according to the Nation. Under the grant partnership, the bank will support address funding issues associated with the country’s universal health care system, Viroj said. “We can’t rely on the ministry’s budget allocation alone,” Viroj stated, adding that the partnership will seek other resources for health services. In addition, the project will provide training for nurses and doctors in an effort to overcome the shortage of health care personnel inside the country, health ministry senior adviser Suwit Wibulpol-prasert stated. The collaboration is a “step forward to sustainable development in this field and improving the country’s health care,” Suwit said. A separate partnership between the Thailand Center of Excellence for Life Sciences and also the World Health Organization will aim to standardize clinical research into tropical diseases, the Nation reports. The partnership will focus on the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and dengue fever (Nation, 2/6).

“Reprinted with permission from http://www.kaisernetwork.org. You can view the entire Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report, search the archives, or sign up for email delivery at http://www.kaisernetwork.org/dailyreports/healthpolicy. The Kaiser Daily Health Policy Report is published for kaisernetwork.org, a free service of the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation . ? 2005 Advisory Board Company and Kaiser Family Foundation. All rights reserved.

3.33 (three votes)

Healthcare Prof:

3 (2 votes)

Consumers are burying their heads within the sand in relation to Christmas spending for the duration of the credit crunch, a top psychologist is cautioning.

Salford University’s Dr Tom Fawcett associates the psychological phenomenon of ‘cognitive dissonance’ – or conflicting thoughts – for the public’s desire to spend this Christmas – even though they know they can’t afford it.

He predicts a post-seasonal rise in anxiety and depression in the end of January, as folks who ignore mounting debts more than Christmas and readily engage in festive spending receive hefty credit card statements.

“People are well aware that they’re spending beyond their indicates this year, but they’re willing to take the credit hit so that you can celebrate Christmas,” explained Dr Fawcett. “This behaviour is conducted even though folks recognise their inability to offer the required financial support inside the long term.

“These contradictory thoughts are known as cognitive dissonance and create uncomfortable tension in people’s minds. People know deep down that their behaviour is destructive but they suppress those thoughts in order to boost their enjoyment. They live in a state of suspended ignorance which has extremely negative consequences.”

The theory of cognitive dissonance was developed within the 1950s by Leon Festinger who studied members of a cult which believed the world was going to be destroyed by aliens. When the globe didn’t end, they believed the aliens had saved the globe instead.

Dr Fawcett said: “Although Festinger’s case is extreme, we’re all guilty of dissonant thoughts. We justify consuming fattening foods when overweight, and locate excuses about why it is acceptable to smoke cigarettes or drink excessive amounts of alcohol.”

However, there’s a approach to prevent dissonant thoughts from taking over this Christmas, he advises: “People need to have to change their belief systems and recognise when their ideas and behaviours are conflicting.

They require to take a reality check the weeks prior to Christmas. Although it might result in a much less lavish period, it could well offer a much more comfortable post-festive existence which is much less stressful.

“That’s the only method to avoid guilt and depression in the New Year when the Christmas excess and enjoyment has worn off.”

Salford University

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Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, a division of Wyeth (NYSE: WYE), welcomes the decision by donor countries to focus on the importance of pneumococcal disease and to launch a pilot Advanced Market Commitment, which will assist to bring the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to developing countries.

“This financial pledge brings much needed attention towards the global burden of pneumococcal disease,” says Bernard Poussot, President, Chief Operating Officer and Vice Chairman, Wyeth. “We join the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers and Associations and also the global community in commending the donor countries, and look forward to cooperating with international partners with the goal of helping to protect children in developing countries against the potentially devastating consequences of pneumococcal disease.”

Wyeth is committed to helping to protect infants and young children against pneumococcal disease and currently markets the only pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, PREVENAR(TM), Pneumococcal Saccharide Conjugated Vaccine, Adsorbed, which has been incorporated into many childhood immunization programs about the world and has had a significant public health impact.

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) Strategic Advisory Group of Experts (SAGE), advocated for priority inclusion of PREVENAR in national immunization programs around the world. SAGE recommended that the vaccine be incorporated into immunization programs now, in view of the demonstrated vaccine efficacy and high disease burden, to help substantially reduce mortality and morbidity.

In addition, Wyeth is now developing a 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine that targets additional serotypes. This investigational vaccine is currently undergoing clinical development and would potentially offer broader coverage against pneumococcal disease.

??About Pneumococcal Disease

Pneumococcal disease is brought on by the bacterium S. pneumoniae, and describes a group of illnesses, including bacteremia/sepsis, meningitis, pneumonia and otitis media. Pneumococcal disease affects both children and adults and is a key cause of death and illness worldwide. The WHO estimates that pneumococcal disease results in up to one million deaths each year in children less than 5 years of age worldwide. Further, according to WHO, pneumococcal disease is the number one vaccine-preventable cause of death in children less than 5 years of age worldwide.

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, a division of Wyeth, has leading products within the areas of women’s health care, infectious disease, gastrointestinal health, central nervous system, inflammation, transplantation, hemophilia, oncology, vaccines and nutritional products.

Wyeth is one of the world’s largest research-driven pharmaceutical and health care products companies. It is a leader within the discovery, development, manufacturing and marketing of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biotechnology products and non-prescription medicines that improve the quality of life for people worldwide. The Company’s key divisions contain Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Wyeth Consumer Healthcare and Fort Dodge Animal Health.

The statements in this press release that are not historical facts are forward-looking statements based on current expectations of future events and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties incorporate risks associated with the inherent uncertainty with the timing and success of product research, development and commercialization (including with respect to our pipeline products), drug pricing and payment for our products by government and third party-payors, manufacturing, data generated on the safety and efficacy of our products, economic conditions including interest and currency exchange rate fluctuations, changes in generally accepted accounting principles, the impact of competitive or generic products, trade buying patterns, global business operations, product liability as well as other types of litigation, the impact of legislation and regulatory compliance, intellectual property rights, strategic relationships with third parties, environmental liabilities, as well as other risks and uncertainties, including those detailed from time to time in our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our current reports on Form 8-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and annual report on Form 10-K, particularly the discussion under the caption “Item 1A, Risk Factors.” We assume no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

Wyeth Pharmaceuticals
http://www.wyeth.com/