Commonwealth of Independent States
Europe, Eastern
USSR
Tajikistan
Azerbaijan
Independent State of Samoa
Diphtheria
Micronesia
Virginia
Diphtheria-Tetanus Vaccine
Guam
American Samoa
Massachusetts
Australia
United States
Health Services Accessibility
Life expectancy in Central and Eastern European countries and newly independent states of the former Soviet Union: changes by gender. (1/25)
AIM: To examine changes in life expectancy at birth for countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union (NIS) for the period 1989-1996. Differences in the change by gender were examined and several factors which likely bear on the changes were discussed. Methods. Data from the WHO Health for All European Data Base were used to determine changes in life expectancy and selected economic factors for CEE and NIS countries. RESULTS: Changes in life expectancy varied by gender in both CEE and the NIS, with the difference increasing for the two groups during the period with the largest increase occurring in the NIS. Both male and female life expectancy declined, with male life expectancy dropping at a more rapid rate. In 1994, the year in which most, but not all countries, reached a low point, life expectancy for males had declined below 60 years for two countries. CONCLUSIONS: The most striking point about the decline in life expectancies was the short period in which the declines occurred, especially in the NIS. It is not possible to determine the exact cause for the changes, but there are likely multiple reasons. It is not completely clear why the decline in life expectancy was greater for males, although the linkage between economic and behavioral and lifestyle factors appear to have some association. Further research is necessary to determine why effects by gender vary so greatly and whether the negative outcomes are a short-term anomaly or will persist. (+info)Occupational cancer in the European part of the Commonwealth of Independent States. (2/25)
Precise information on the number of workers currently exposed to carcinogens in the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is lacking. However, the large number of workers employed in high-risk industries such as the chemical and metal industries suggests that the number of workers potentially exposed to carcinogens may be large. In the CIS, women account for almost 50% of the industrial work force. Although no precise data are available on the number of cancers caused by occupational exposures, indirect evidence suggests that the magnitude of the problem is comparable to that observed in Western Europe, representing some 20,000 cases per year. The large number of women employed in the past and at present in industries that create potential exposure to carcinogens is a special characteristic of the CIS. In recent years an increasing amount of high-quality research has been conducted on occupational cancer in the CIS; there is, however, room for further improvement. International training programs should be established, and funds from international research and development programs should be devoted to this area. In recent years, following privatization of many large-scale industries, access to employment and exposure data is becoming increasingly difficult. (+info)The changing epidemiology of diphtheria in the vaccine era. (3/25)
The epidemic of diphtheria in the Newly Independent States (NIS) of the former Soviet Union has drawn attention to our incomplete understanding of the epidemiology of diphtheria. Many unanswered questions remain concerning the reasons for a resurgence of diphtheria and for the shift in the age of patients and concerning the mechanisms for acquisition of immunity in adults through natural infection under unfavorable living conditions. Other unanswered questions relate to the precise role of socioeconomic factors and hygiene conditions in the initiation, buildup, and spread of the epidemic. Important characteristics of the NIS epidemic can be used to help predict the spread of future diphtheria epidemics. These characteristics include a high proportion of infected adults, a progressive spread of disease from urban centers to rural areas, and transition from initial amplification of disease in groups with high rates of close contacts in focalized, well-distinguished outbreaks to a more generalized epidemic. (+info)Successful control of epidemic diphtheria in the states of the Former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics: lessons learned. (4/25)
Epidemic diphtheria reemerged in the Russian Federation in 1990 and spread to all Newly Independent States (NIS) and Baltic States by the end of 1994. Factors contributing to the epidemic included increased susceptibility of both children and adults, socioeconomic instability, population movement, deteriorating health infrastructure, initial shortages of vaccine, and delays in implementing control measures. In 1995, aggressive control strategies were implemented, and since then, all affected countries have reported decreases of diphtheria; however, continued efforts by national health authorities and international assistance are still needed. The legacy of this epidemic includes a reexamination of the global diphtheria control strategy, new laboratory techniques for diphtheria diagnosis and analysis, and a model for future public health emergencies in the successful collaboration of multiple international partners. The reemergence of diphtheria warns of an immediate threat of other epidemics in the NIS and Baltic States and a longer-term potential for the reemergence of vaccine-preventable diseases elsewhere. Continued investment in improved vaccines, control strategies, training, and laboratory techniques is needed. (+info)Diphtheria surveillance and control in the Former Soviet Union and the Newly Independent States. (5/25)
The Newly Independent States (NIS) inherited a common approach to diphtheria control from the Soviet Union and maintained a centralized system of surveillance and control managed by Soviet-trained epidemiologists with a shared professional culture. This system had controlled a diphtheria resurgence in the 1980s. In response to the epidemic of the 1990s, NIS health authorities responded with a set of control measures based on the Soviet-era experience. These measures included intensified childhood vaccination, aggressive case investigation, widespread diphtheria screening in institutions, and vaccination of adults in high-risk occupation groups. These measures proved insufficient due to high levels of susceptibility among adults, excessive contraindications to childhood vaccination, and insufficient resources in many countries. After these initial delays in implementing effective measures in some countries, most of the NIS health authorities rapidly and successfully implemented mass immunization of the population against diphtheria once the strategy was adopted and sufficient vaccine was available. (+info)Immunogenicity of tetanus-diphtheria toxoids (Td) among Ukrainian adults: implications for diphtheria control in the Newly Independent States of the Former Soviet Union. (6/25)
After 30 years of control, epidemic diphtheria returned to the Soviet Union in 1990. To develop control strategies, the immunogenicity of the tetanus and diphtheria toxoids (Td) vaccine was assessed. Workers who were 18-67 years old received two Td immunizations separated by 30 days. A neutralization assay determined diphtheria antitoxin (DAT) on enrollment and on days 7, 30, 60, and 425. On enrollment, 43.0% of 488 workers had DAT <0.1 IU/mL. After one dose, 88.5% had DAT >/=0.1 IU/mL, after two doses, 92.2% had >/=0.1 IU/mL and >90% of participants <30 or >/=50 years of age attained >/=1.0 IU/mL; however, only 78.4% of those who were 30-39 years old and 51.8% of those who were 40-49 years old achieved >/=1.0 IU/mL after two doses. To control the epidemic in Ukraine, one Td dose should be administered to virtually the entire population (persons 30-49 years old require three doses of Td for optimal individual protection and to maximize population immunity). (+info)Epidemic diphtheria in the Newly Independent States of the Former Soviet Union: implications for diphtheria control in the United States. (7/25)
The re-emergence of diphtheria in the Newly Independent States of the former Soviet Union in the 1990s raised global awareness of the potential for resurgent disease in countries with long-standing immunization programs. In the United States, the large population of susceptible adults and the possibility of a reintroduction of toxigenic strains of diphtheria create a setting in which diphtheria could spread. In addition, at least one focus of continued circulation of endemic toxigenic Corynebacterium diphtheriae has been identified. Few physicians now have expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of persons with diphtheria, and laboratory capacity is lacking throughout the country. These concerns highlight the importance of maintaining high levels of age-appropriate diphtheria toxoid vaccination, surveillance, accessible and reliable laboratory testing, and training of health care providers. Although the risk of resurgence of diphtheria in the United States is low, public health authorities must ensure that the capacity to recognize, diagnose, and control diphtheria is maintained. (+info)Implications of the diphtheria epidemic in the Former Soviet Union for immunization programs. (8/25)
The massive diphtheria epidemic in the former Soviet Union provides important lessons for all diphtheria immunization programs: It is important to achieve a high level of childhood immunization, maintain immunity against diphtheria in older age groups, and use anti-epidemic measures, including immunization, to control epidemics in the early phase. The immunization coverage among children should be at least 90%. Further studies are needed to elaborate the most effective strategy to maintain immunity against diphtheria in adults (periodic booster doses, immunization of selected age groups in health care settings, use of Td [tetanus-diphtheria toxoids with reduced diphtheria toxoid content] vaccine instead of monovalent tetanus toxoid whenever tetanus toxoid is indicated [e.g., in treatment of wounds or in school-based immunization programs]). Efforts should be undertaken to monitor diphtheria immunity in different groups by conducting age-specific serologic studies. (+info)The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) is not a medical term, but rather a political and geographical term. It refers to a regional organization that was established in 1991, following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The CIS comprises 10 post-Soviet states: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Therefore, there is no medical definition associated with the term "Commonwealth of Independent States." However, it is important to note that public health and healthcare systems in CIS countries have undergone significant changes since the collapse of the Soviet Union, with varying degrees of success and challenges.
Eastern Europe is a geographical and political region of the European continent. The exact definition of Eastern Europe varies, but it generally includes the countries in Central and Eastern Europe that were part of the Soviet Union or aligned with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. These countries include:
* Belarus
* Bulgaria
* Czech Republic
* Hungary
* Moldova
* Poland
* Romania
* Russia (European portion)
* Slovakia
* Ukraine
Some definitions of Eastern Europe also include the Baltic states (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania), which were part of the Soviet Union but are now independent countries. Other definitions may also include Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia, which were part of the Eastern Bloc but not part of the Soviet Union.
It is important to note that the term "Eastern Europe" can be seen as problematic and outdated, as it is often associated with negative stereotypes and historical connotations from the Cold War era. Many people prefer to use more specific terms, such as "Central Europe," "Eastern Bloc," or "Soviet Union," to describe the region.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but the abbreviation "USSR" stands for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, which was a socialist state in Eastern Europe and northern and central Asia that existed from 1922 until its dissolution in 1991. It was not a medical term or concept. If you have any questions related to medicine, I would be happy to try to help answer them for you.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Tajikistan" is not a medical term. It is the name of a country located in Central Asia. Tajikistan is a sovereign state, bordered by Afghanistan to the south, Uzbekistan to the west, Kyrgyzstan to the north, and China to the east. The capital city of Tajikistan is Dushanbe. If you have any questions about medical topics or terminology, I would be happy to help answer those for you.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but the term "Azerbaijan" is a country's name and not a medical term or condition. It is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. If you have any questions about Azerbaijani culture, history, or geography, I would be happy to try to help answer them, but for medical information, it would be best to consult a reliable health or medical resource.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Independent State of Samoa" is the name of a country, specifically the nation-state located in the central South Pacific Ocean, formerly known as Western Samoa. It is not a medical term or concept. The Independent State of Samoa consists of two main islands, Upolu and Savai'i, along with several smaller islands. Its capital city is Apia.
If you have any medical questions or terms that need defining, I would be happy to help!
Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae. It typically affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and windpipe (trachea), causing a thick gray or white membrane to form over the lining of these areas. This can lead to breathing difficulties, heart complications, and neurological problems if left untreated.
The bacteria can also produce a powerful toxin that can cause damage to other organs in the body. Diphtheria is usually spread through respiratory droplets from an infected person's cough or sneeze, or by contact with contaminated objects or surfaces. The disease is preventable through vaccination.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Micronesia" is not a medical term. It is a geographical term that refers to a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, which includes countries such as the Federated States of Micronesia, Palau, and the Marshall Islands. If you have any questions about medical terms or concepts, I would be happy to help with those!
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Virginia" is not a medical term or condition. It is a geographical location, specifically the name of a state in the United States. If you have any medical questions or terms you would like defined, I'd be happy to help!
The Diphtheria-Tetanus vaccine, also known as the DT vaccine or Td vaccine (if diphtheria toxoid is not included), is a combination vaccine that protects against two potentially serious bacterial infections: diphtheria and tetanus.
Diphtheria is a respiratory infection that can cause breathing difficulties, heart problems, and nerve damage. Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and causes muscle stiffness and spasms, particularly in the jaw and neck.
The vaccine contains small amounts of inactivated toxins (toxoids) from the bacteria that cause diphtheria and tetanus. When the vaccine is administered, it stimulates the immune system to produce antibodies that provide protection against these diseases.
In addition to protecting against diphtheria and tetanus, some formulations of the vaccine may also include protection against pertussis (whooping cough), polio, or hepatitis B. The DTaP vaccine is a similar combination vaccine that includes protection against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis, but uses acellular pertussis components instead of the whole-cell pertussis component used in the DT vaccine.
The Diphtheria-Tetanus vaccine is typically given as a series of shots in childhood, with booster shots recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity. It is an important part of routine childhood vaccination and is also recommended for adults who have not received the full series of shots or whose protection has waned over time.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Guam" is not a medical term. It is a territorial island in the Pacific Ocean and is an organized, unincorporated territory of the United States. Guam is known for its unique Chamorro culture, beautiful beaches, and historical sites. If you have any questions about medical terms or topics, I'd be happy to help with those instead!
American Samoa is a territorial possession of the United States located in the South Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,600 miles southwest of Hawaii. It consists of five main islands and two coral atolls, with a total land area of about 77 square miles. The population is approximately 55,000 people, most of whom are of Samoan descent.
The main islands are Tutuila, Ta'u, Olosega, Ofu, and Aunu'u. The capital and largest city is Pago Pago, located on Tutuila. American Samoa is known for its beautiful beaches, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage.
As a territorial possession of the United States, American Samoa is governed by a governor and lieutenant governor, elected every four years by the residents. The territory also sends a non-voting delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives. While American Samoans are U.S. nationals, they are not U.S. citizens unless they are born in the United States or have been naturalized.
In medical terms, American Samoa has unique health challenges and disparities due to its remote location, limited resources, and cultural factors. Common health issues include non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, as well as infectious diseases such as tuberculosis and dengue fever. Access to healthcare services can be limited, particularly in rural areas, and there is a shortage of healthcare professionals. The territory also faces challenges related to mental health, substance abuse, and environmental health hazards such as contaminated water sources and poor sanitation.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "Massachusetts" is not a medical term. It is the name of a state located in the northeastern region of the United States. If you have any questions about medical terms or concepts, I would be happy to help clarify those for you.
I apologize for any confusion, but "Australia" is not a medical term or concept. It is the world's largest island and smallest continent, located in the Southern Hemisphere, surrounded by the Pacific and Indian Oceans. It is composed of many diverse ecosystems, including deserts, rainforests, and coastal areas, and is home to a wide variety of unique plant and animal species.
If you have any questions related to medical terminology or health-related topics, I would be happy to try and help answer them for you!
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "United States" is a geopolitical entity, specifically the name of the country consisting of 50 states, and it is not a medical term or concept. Therefore, I can't provide a medical definition for it. If you have any questions related to health, medicine, or biology, I would be happy to try to help answer those!
Health services accessibility refers to the degree to which individuals and populations are able to obtain needed health services in a timely manner. It includes factors such as physical access (e.g., distance, transportation), affordability (e.g., cost of services, insurance coverage), availability (e.g., supply of providers, hours of operation), and acceptability (e.g., cultural competence, language concordance).
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), accessibility is one of the key components of health system performance, along with responsiveness and fair financing. Improving accessibility to health services is essential for achieving universal health coverage and ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare without facing financial hardship. Factors that affect health services accessibility can vary widely between and within countries, and addressing these disparities requires a multifaceted approach that includes policy interventions, infrastructure development, and community engagement.
Commonwealth of Independent States