ORCID Profile
0000-0002-3238-3427
Current Organisation
University of Adelaide
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Research Topics
In Research Link Australia (RLA), "Research Topics" refer to ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes. These topics are either sourced from ANZSRC FOR and SEO codes listed in researchers' related grants or generated by a large language model (LLM) based on their publications.
Top 5 Research Topics
ANZSRC Field of Research (FoR)
Public Health and Health Services | Epidemiology | Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety | Epidemiology | Environmental And Occupational Health And Safety | Aged Health Care | Environmental Impact Assessment | Public Health And Health Services Not Elsewhere Classified | Health Economics | Primary Health Care | Rural Sociology | Climate change impacts and adaptation not elsewhere classified | Environmental epidemiology | Climate change impacts and adaptation | Health Promotion | Human Bioethics | Health And Community Services | Environmental Impact Assessment | Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified | Primary health care |
ANZSRC Socio-Economic Objective (SEO)
Environmental Health | Environmental health | Social structure and health | Occupational Health | Climate Change Adaptation Measures | Social Impacts of Climate Change and Variability | Health and support services not elsewhere classified | Social Structure and Health | Health related to ageing | Health education and promotion | Health related to specific ethnic groups | Rural health | Health policy evaluation | Climate variability | Air quality | Health Related to Ageing | Public health not elsewhere classified | Health status (e.g. indicators of “well-being”) | Rural Health | Health Protection and/or Disaster Response
Related Links
Publications
Is a One Health Approach Utilized for Q Fever Control? A Comprehensive Literature Review.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 28-02-2019
Abstract: Q fever, a zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to humans, is a significant public health problem with a potential for outbreaks to occur. Q fever prevention strategies should incorporate human, animal, and environmental domains. A One Health approach, which engages cross-sectoral collaboration among multiple stakeholders, may be an appropriate framework and has the underlying principles to control Q fever holistically. To assess whether components of One Health for Q fever prevention and control have been applied, a comprehensive literature review was undertaken. We found 16 studies that had practiced or recommended a One Health approach. Seven emerging themes were identified: Human risk assessment, human and animal serology, integrated human–animal surveillance, vaccination for at-risk groups, environmental management, multi-sectoral collaboration, and education and training. Within the multi-sectoral theme, we identified five subthemes: Policy and practice guidelines, information sharing and intelligence exchange, risk communication, joint intervention, and evaluation. One Health practices varied between studies possibly due to differences in intercountry policy, practice, and feasibility. However, the key issue of the need for multi-sectoral collaboration was highlighted across most of the studies. Further research is warranted to explore the barriers and opportunities of adopting a One Health approach in Q fever prevention and control.
Preparing Health Services for Climate Change in Australia
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2011
Abstract: Although the implications of climate change for public health continue to be elucidated, we still require much work to guide the development of a comprehensive strategy to underpin the adaptation of the health system. Adaptation will be an evolving process as impacts emerge. The authors aim is to focus on the responses of the Australian health system to health risks from climate change, and in particular how best to prepare health services for predicted health risks from heat waves, bushfires, infectious diseases, diminished air quality, and the mental health impacts of climate change. In addition, the authors aim to provide some general principles for health system adaptation to climate change that may be applicable beyond the Australian setting. They present some guiding principles for preparing health systems and also overview some specific preparatory activities in relation to personnel, infrastructure, and coordination. Increases in extreme weather—related events superimposed on health effects arising from a gradually changing climate will place additional burdens on the health system and challenge existing capacity. Key characteristics of a climate change—prepared health system are that it should be flexible, strategically allocated, and robust. Long-term planning will also require close collaboration with the nonhealth sectors as part of a nationwide adaptive response.
Characterising the impact of heatwaves on work-related injuries and illnesses in three Australian cities using a standard heatwave definition- Excess Heat Factor (EHF)
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-04-2019
DOI: 10.1038/S41370-019-0138-1
Abstract: Heatwaves have potential health and safety implications for many workers, and heatwaves are predicted to increase in frequency and intensity with climate change. There is currently a lack of comparative evidence for the effects of heatwaves on workers' health and safety in different climates (sub-tropical and temperate). This study examined the relationship between heatwave severity (as defined by the Excess Heat Factor) and workers' compensation claims, to define impacts and identify workers at higher risk. Workers' compensation claims data from Australian cities with temperate (Melbourne and Perth) and subtropical (Brisbane) climates for the years 2006-2016 were analysed in relation to heatwave severity categories (low and moderate/high severity) using time-stratified case-crossover models. Consistent impacts of heatwaves were observed in each city with either a protective or null effect during heatwaves of low-intensity while claims increased during moderate/high-severity heatwaves compared with non-heatwave days. The highest effect during moderate/high-severity heatwaves was in Brisbane (RR 1.45, 95% CI: 1.42-1.48). Vulnerable worker subgroups identified across the three cities included: males, workers aged under 34 years, apprentice/trainee workers, labour hire workers, those employed in medium and heavy strength occupations, and workers from outdoor and indoor industrial sectors. These findings show that work-related injuries and illnesses increase during moderate/high-severity heatwaves in both sub-tropical and temperate climates. Heatwave forecasts should signal the need for heightened heat awareness and preventive measures to minimise the risks to workers.
Carbon emissions and public health: an inverse association?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
Effect of climate change on Australian rural and remote regions: What do we know and what do we need to know?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 07-01-2008
DOI: 10.1111/J.1440-1584.2007.00945.X
Abstract: This paper addresses a very important issue in Australian rural and remote regions: the effects of climate change on various aspects including natural resources, agricultural activity, population health, and social and economic development. The objective is to briefly characterise the consequences of climate change in rural Australia and what we can do to prevent further impact in our rural communities.
The effects of ambient temperatures on the risk of work-related injuries and illnesses
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2018.12.024
Abstract: The thermal environment can directly affect workers' occupational health and safety, and act as a contributing factor to injury or illness. However, the literature addressing risks posed by varying temperatures on work-related injuries and illnesses is limited. To examine the occupational injury and illness risk profiles for hot and cold conditions. Daily numbers of workers' compensation claims in Adelaide, South Australia from 2003 to 2013 (n = 224,631) were sourced together with daily weather data. The impacts of maximum daily temperature on the risk of work-related injuries and illnesses was assessed using a time-stratified case-crossover study design combined with a distributed lag non-linear model. The minimum number of workers' compensation claims occurred when the maximum daily temperature was 25 °C. Compared with this optimal temperature, extremely hot temperatures (99th percentile) were associated with an increase in overall claims (RR: 1.30, 95%CI: 1.18-1.44) whereas a non-significant increase was observed with extremely cold temperatures (1st percentile, RR: 1.10 (95%CI: 0.99-1.21). Heat exposure had an acute effect on workers' injuries whereas cold conditions resulted in delayed effects. Moderate temperatures were associated with a greater injury burden than extreme temperatures. Days of very high temperatures were associated with the greatest risks of occupational injuries whereas moderate temperatures, which occur more commonly, have the greatest burden. These findings suggest that the broader range of thermal conditions should be considered in workplace injury and illness prevention strategies.
Characterising the Burden of Work-Related Injuries in South Australia: A 15-Year Data Analysis.
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-03-2020
Abstract: To characterise the burden of work-related injuries in South Australia, workers’ compensation claim data were obtained from SafeWork South Australia between 2000 and 2014. Descriptive analyses were performed to investigate the burden of work-related injuries by age, gender, occupation, industry, and nature and mechanism of injury. Dunn’s test was used to compare the injury costs and working days lost by industry and occupation. Ordinary linear regression was used to investigate the age-injury cost association. A total of 464,139 workers’ compensation claims were reported during the 15-year period in South Australia, with an overall rate of 4.6 claims per 100 employees, resulting in a total of 20,861,001 working days lost and AU$14.9 billion dollars of compensation payment. Between 2000 to 2014, the annual claim rates, compensation payments, working days lost, and number of work-related death reduced by 59.3, 73.8, 87.1, and 78.6 percent, respectively, while the median compensation payment increased by 67.3% from AU$968 to AU$1620. A 1-year increase in age was associated with a 2.1% (Rate Ratio, RR = 1.021, 95% CI: 1.020–1.022) increase in compensation costs and a 1.3% (RR = 1.013, 95% CI: 1.012–1.020) increase in working days lost. Work-related injury rates are declining in most sectors, however some workers, especially young male technicians and labourers in the community services industry, remain at higher risk. Challenges for workers’ health and safety include the aging labour force, vehicle incidents, and severe injuries among new and foreign-born workers.
Weather and notified Campylobacter infections in temperate and sub-tropical regions of Australia: An ecological study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2008.08.004
Abstract: The relationship between weather and food-borne diseases has been of great concern recently. However, the impact of weather variations on food-borne disease may vary in different areas with various geographic, weather and demographic characteristics. This study was designed to quantify the relationship between weather variables and C ylobacter infections in two Australian cities with different local climatic conditions. An ecological-epidemiological study was conducted, using weekly disease surveillance data and meteorological data, over the period 1990-2005, to quantify the relationship between maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall, relative humidity and notifications of C ylobacter infections in Adelaide, with a temperate Mediterranean climate, and Brisbane, with a sub-tropical climate. Spearman correlation and time-series adjusted Poisson regression analyses were performed taking into account seasonality, lag effects and long-term trends. The results indicate that weekly maximum and minimum temperatures were inversely associated with the weekly number of cases in Adelaide, but positively correlated with the number of cases in Brisbane, with relevant lagged effects. The effects of rainfall and relative humidity on C ylobacter infection rates varied in the two cities. Weather might have different effect on C ylobacter infections in different cities. Further studies are needed for a better understanding of these relationships for they may indicate epidemiologic factors important for control of these infections.
Lung function reductions associated with motor vehicle density in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a cross-sectional study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-10-2016
Risk factors for deaths during the 2009 heat wave in Adelaide, Australia: a matched case-control study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 24-05-2017
DOI: 10.1007/S00484-016-1189-9
Abstract: The extreme heat wave in Australia in 2009 resulted in significantly increased number of daily deaths. The circumstances that lead to deaths during extreme heat have not been explored before in Australia. This study aims to identify the in idual and community risk factors for deaths during this extreme heat wave in Adelaide. A matched case-control study was conducted. Cases were those who died in the Adelaide metropolitan area during the heat wave period. For each case, two community controls were randomly selected, matched by age and gender. Face-to-face or telephone interviews were conducted to collect data of demographic information, living environment, social support, health status and behavioural changes during the heat wave. Descriptive analysis, as well as simple and multiple conditional logistic regressions were performed. In total, 82 deaths and 164 matched community controls were included in the analysis, with a median age of 77.5 (range 26.6-100.7). The multiple logistic regression model indicated that, compared with controls, the risk of death during the heat wave was significantly increased for people living alone (AOR = 42.31, 95 % CI 2.3, 792.8) or having existing chronic heart disease (AOR = 22.4, 95 % CI 1.7, 303.0). In addition, having air conditioning in bedrooms (AOR = 0.004, 95 % CI 0.00006, 0.28) and participating in social activities more than once a week (AOR = 0.011, 95 % CI 0.0004, 0.29) indicated significant protective effects. We have identified factors that could significantly impact on the likelihood of deaths during heat waves. Our findings could assist in the development of future intervention programs and policies to reduce mortality associated with a warmer climate.
Effect of apparent temperature on daily emergency admissions for mental and behavioral disorders in Yancheng, China: a time-series study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 20-11-2019
DOI: 10.1186/S12940-019-0543-X
Abstract: Very few studies have focused on the relationship between ambient apparent temperature (AT) and admission of mental and behaviour disorders (MDs). Therefore, a time-series study was conducted in Yancheng, China, to explore the effects of AT on the daily emergency admissions of patients with MDs over the period of 2014–17. A quasi-Poisson generalized linear model (GLM) combined with a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was adopted to explore the associations after adjusting for time trend, day of the week, humidity, sunshine duration, rainfall, holidays and air pollutants. In the subgroup analysis, the modification effects of age and sex were also examined. Overall, 8438 cases of MDs emergency admissions were identified. With the apparent temperature with the minimum number of admissions (− 3.4 °C) serving as a reference, a positive correlation emerged between high AT and daily emergency admissions of patients with MDs in Yancheng, China, with the lagged effect of 1 to 5 days. The subgroup analysis demonstrated a positive relationship between AT and MDs emergency admissions among males and in iduals younger than 45 years old, with no lagged effect. The results will provide important scientific evidence for mental health policy-makers and practitioners for possible intervention, especially among the vulnerable populations.
Hospitalization Costs of Respiratory Diseases Attributable to Temperature in the Context of Climate Change in Australia
Publisher: Research Square Platform LLC
Date: 21-12-2021
DOI: 10.21203/RS.3.RS-1140619/V1
Abstract: Background: The association between temperatures and respiratory diseases has been extensively reported. However, the associated healthcare costs and attributable fractions due to temperature have scarcely been explored. The aims of this study were to estimate respiratory disease hospitalization costs attributable to non-optimum ambient temperature, to quantify the attributable fraction from cold and hot temperatures, and to estimate the future hospitalization costs in two Australian cities. Methods: The associations between daily hospitalization costs for respiratory diseases and temperatures in Sydney and Perth over the study period of 2010-2016 were analyzed using distributed lag non-linear models. Future hospitalization costs for respiratory diseases were estimated based on three predicted climate change scenarios - RCP2.6, RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Results: The estimated respiratory disease hospitalization costs attributable to non-optimum ambient temperatures increased from 493.2 million Australian dollars (AUD) in 2010s to more than 700 million AUD in 2050s in Sydney, and from 98.0 million AUD to about 150 million AUD during the same period in Perth, in large part due to population growth. In the context of climate change, the current cold attributable fraction in Sydney (23.7%) and Perth (11.2%) is estimated to decline by the middle of this century to (18.1-20.1%) and (5.1-6.6%) respectively, while the heat-attributable fraction for respiratory disease is expected to gradually increase from 2.6% up to 5.5% in Perth. Conclusions: This study found both cold and hot temperatures increased the overall hospitalization costs for respiratory diseases in two major Australian cities, although the attributable fractions varied. The largest contributor was cold temperatures. While respiratory disease hospitalization costs will increase in the future, climate change will result in a decrease in the cold attributable fraction and an increase in the heat attributable fraction, depending on the location.
The effects of ambient temperature and heatwaves on daily Campylobacter cases in Adelaide, Australia, 1990-2012
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 11-07-2017
DOI: 10.1017/S095026881700139X
Abstract: C ylobacter spp. is a commonly reported food-borne disease with major consequences for morbidity. In conjunction with predicted increases in temperature, proliferation in the survival of microorganisms in hotter environments is expected. This is likely to lead, in turn, to an increase in contamination of food and water and a rise in numbers of cases of infectious gastroenteritis. This study assessed the relationship of C ylobacter spp. with temperature and heatwaves, in Adelaide, South Australia. We estimated the effect of (i) maximum temperature and (ii) heatwaves on daily C ylobacter cases during the warm seasons (1 October to 31 March) from 1990 to 2012 using Poisson regression models. There was no evidence of a substantive effect of maximum temperature per 1 °C rise (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 0·995, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0·993–0·997) nor heatwaves (IRR 0·906, 95% CI 0·800–1·026) on C ylobacter cases. In relation to heatwave intensity, which is the daily maximum temperature during a heatwave, notifications decreased by 19% within a temperature range of 39–40·9 °C (IRR 0·811, 95% CI 0·692–0·952). We found little evidence of an increase in risk and lack of association between C ylobacter cases and temperature or heatwaves in the warm seasons. Heatwave intensity may play a role in that notifications decreased with higher temperatures. Further examination of the role of behavioural and environmental factors in an effort to reduce the risk of increased C ylobacter cases is warranted.
Use of web 2.0 to recruit Australian gay men to an online HIV/AIDS survey
Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.
Date: 06-11-2012
DOI: 10.2196/JMIR.1819
Does hot weather affect work-related injury? A case-crossover study in Guangzhou, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2018.01.005
Abstract: Despite increasing concerns about the health effects of climate change, the extent to which workers are affected by hot weather is not well documented. This study aims to investigate the association between high temperatures and work-related injuries using data from a large subtropical city in China. We used workers' compensation claims to identify work-related injuries in Guangzhou, China during 2011-2012. To feature the heat effect, the study period was restricted to the warm seasons in Guangzhou (1 May-31 October). We conducted a time-stratified case-crossover study to examine the association between ambient outdoor temperatures, including daily maximum and minimum temperatures, and cases of work-related injury. The relationships were assessed using conditional Poisson regression models. Overall, a total of 5418 workers' compensation claims were included over the study period. Both maximum and minimum temperatures were significantly associated with work-related injuries, but associations varied by subgroup. One °C increase in maximum temperature was associated with a 1.4% (RR = 1.014, 95%CIs 1.012-1.017) increase in daily injury claims. Significant associations were seen for male and middle-aged workers, workers in small and medium-sized enterprises, and those working in manufacturing sector. And 1 °C increase in minimum temperature was associated with 1.7% (RR = 1.017, 95%CIs 1.012-1.021) increase in daily injury claims. Significant associations were observed for female and middle-aged workers, workers in large-sized enterprises, and those working in transport and construction sectors. We found a higher risk of work-related injuries due to hot weather in Guangzhou, China. This study provides important epidemiological evidence for policy-makers and industry that may assist in the formulation of occupational safety and climate adaptation strategies.
Gas pressure measurement in ICF cryogenic target micro-tube gas-filling process
Publisher: Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics
Date: 2012
Geographical variation in risk of work-related injuries and illnesses associated with ambient temperatures: A multi-city case-crossover study in Australia, 2005-2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.06.098
Abstract: The thermal working environment can have direct and in-direct effects on health and safety. Ambient temperatures have been associated with an increased risk of occupational injuries but it is unknown how the relationship can vary by weather, location and climate. To examine the relationship between ambient temperatures and work-related injury and illness compensation claims in three Australian cities: Melbourne and Perth (temperate climate) and Brisbane (subtropical climate) in order to determine how hot and cold weather influences the risk of occupational injury in Australia. Workers' compensation claims from each city for the period 2005 to 2016 were merged with local daily weather data. A time-stratified case-crossover design combined with a distributed lag non-linear model was used to quantify the impacts of daily maximum temperature (T Compared to the median maximum temperature (T The relationship between injury and ambient temperature appears to be variable depending on location and climate. In general, work-related injuries and illnesses appear to be more common at higher temperatures than lower temperatures. Adopting adaptation and prevention measures could reduce the social and economic burden of injury, and formulating effective measures for dealing with high temperatures should be prioritised given the predicted increase in the frequency and intensity of hot weather.
Association between malaria incidence and meteorological factors: a multi-location study in China, 2005–2012
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 17-12-2018
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268817002254
Abstract: This study aims to investigate the climate–malaria associations in nine cities selected from malaria high-risk areas in China. Daily reports of malaria cases in Anhui, Henan, and Yunnan Provinces for 2005–2012 were obtained from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Generalized estimating equation models were used to quantify the city-specific climate–malaria associations. Multivariate random-effects meta-regression analyses were used to pool the city-specific effects. An inverted-U-shaped curve relationship was observed between temperatures, average relative humidity, and malaria. A 1 °C increase of maximum temperature ( T max ) resulted in 6·7% (95% CI 4·6–8·8%) to 15·8% (95% CI 14·1–17·4%) increase of malaria, with corresponding lags ranging from 7 to 45 days. For minimum temperature ( T min ), the effect estimates peaked at lag 0 to 40 days, ranging from 5·3% (95% CI 4·4–6·2%) to 17·9% (95% CI 15·6–20·1%). Malaria is more sensitive to T min in cool climates and T max in warm climates. The duration of lag effect in a cool climate zone is longer than that in a warm climate zone. Lagged effects did not vanish after an epidemic season but waned gradually in the following 2–3 warm seasons. A warming climate may potentially increase the risk of malaria resurgence in China.
Co-existing conditions for deaths from infectious and parasitic diseases in Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2004
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJID.2003.05.002
Abstract: To examine the frequency distribution of co-existing conditions for deaths where the underlying cause was infectious and parasitic diseases. Besides the underlying cause of death, the distributions of co-existing conditions for deaths from infectious and parasitic diseases were examined in total and by various age and sex groups, at in idual and chapter levels, using 1998 Australian mortality data. In addition to the underlying cause of death, the average number of reported co-existing conditions for a single infectious and parasitic death was 1.62. The most common co-existing conditions were respiratory failure, acute renal failure - non-specific causes, ischaemic heart disease, pneumonia and diabetes. When studying the distribution of co-existing conditions at the ICD-9 chapter level, it was found that the circulatory system diseases were the most important. There was an increasing trend in the number of reported co-existing conditions from 60 years of age upwards. Gender differences existed in the frequency of some reported co-existing conditions. The most common organism types of co-existing conditions were other bacterial infection and other viruses. The study indicated that the quality of death certificates is less than satisfactory for the 1998 Australian mortality data. The findings may be helpful in clarifying the ICD coding rules and the development of disease prevention strategies.
Changes in Rodent Abundance and Weather Conditions Potentially Drive Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome Outbreaks in Xi’an, China, 2005–2012
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 30-03-2015
Speaking of climate change: a discursive analysis of lay understandings
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 11-02-2015
Abstract: Representations of climate change have been a recurrent motif in media and political domains spanning over 20 years. However, relatively scant scholarly work has addressed how laypeople make sense of this phenomenon in talk. The current study, employing a discursive approach, demonstrates how the salience of climate change, as a social issue, is accounted for and made contingent on social, financial, and political factors. Moreover, the issue of climate change was accounted for as an intergenerational issue, and moral considerations were mobilized in arguing for why the issue should be provided increased attention. We argue that science communication research could fruitfully examine the discursive building blocks underpinning taken-for-granted ways of talking about climate change, informing the design of alternative discourses.
Molecular dynamics simulation of diffusion of hydrogen and its isotopic molecule in polystyrene
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 13-01-2018
Association between high temperature and work-related injuries in Adelaide, South Australia, 2001-2010
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 13-12-2014
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2013-101584
Abstract: (1) To investigate the association between temperature and work-related injuries and (2) to identify groups of workers at high risk of work-related injuries in hot environments in Adelaide, South Australia. Workers' compensation claims in Adelaide, South Australia for 2001-2010 were used. The relationship between temperature and daily injury claims was estimated using a generalised estimating equation model. A piecewise linear spline function was used to quantify the effect of temperature on injury claims below and above thresholds. Overall, a 1°C increase in maximum temperature between 14.2°C and 37.7°C was associated with a 0.2% increase in daily injury claims. Specifically, the incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for male workers and young workers aged ≤24 were (1.004, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.006) and (1.005, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.008), respectively. Significant associations were also found for labourers (IRR 1.005, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.010), intermediate production and transport workers (IRR 1.003, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.005) and tradespersons (IRR 1.002, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.005). Industries at risk were agriculture, forestry and fishing (IRR 1.007, 95% CI 1.001 to 1.013), construction (IRR 1.006, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.011), and electricity, gas and water (IRR 1.029, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.058). There is a significant association between injury claims and temperature in Adelaide, South Australia, for certain industries and groups. Relevant adaptation and prevention measures are required at both policy and practice levels to address occupational exposure to high temperatures.
Impact of meteorological factors on hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in 19 cities in China, 2005–2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.04.407
Abstract: This study aims to investigate the associations between meteorological factors and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in 19 cities selected from HFRS high risk areas across different climate zones in three Provinces of China. De-identified daily reports of HFRS in Anhui, Heilongjiang, and Liaoning Provinces for 2005-2014 were obtained from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Daily weather data from each study location were obtained from the China meteorological Data Sharing Service System. Generalised estimating equation models (GEE) were used to quantify the city-specific HFRS-weather associations. Multivariate random-effects meta-regression models were used to pool the city-specific HFRS-weather effect estimates. HFRS showed an overall downward trend during the study period with a slight rebound after 2010. Meteorological factors were significantly associated with HFRS incidence. HFRS was relatively more sensitive to weather variability in subtropical regions (Anhui Province) than in temperate regions (Heilongjiang and Liaoning Provinces). The size of effect estimates and the duration of lagged effects varied by locations. Pooled results of the 19 cities showed that a 1 °C increase in maximum temperature (T
Solidification of an atomic fluid inside a spherical shell
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 22-05-2015
Harm reduction behind bars: Prison worker perspectives
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 07-2013
Abstract: We aimed to identify how strategies to reduce the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in prisons could be implemented in a way that is acceptable to those with the responsibility for implementing them. Prison officer and nurse perceptions of HCV and attitudes toward a range of harm reduction interventions, including clean needle and bleach provision, were explored. In the context of highly prevalent feelings of resentment, most of the proposed strategies were perceived by all staff as a threat for officers and a privilege for prisoners. Addressing the underlying concerns of prison staff is essential in achieving a fully collaborative harm reduction effort. Ongoing resistance to proposed harm reduction strategies underscores the relevance of these findings for prison settings in Australia and elsewhere.
Geographic variation of notified Ross River virus infections in Queensland, Australia, 1985-1996
Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Date: 09-2001
DOI: 10.4269/AJTMH.2001.65.171
Abstract: The spatial and temporal variations of Ross River virus infections reported in Queensland, Australia, between 1985 and 1996 were studied by using the Geographic Information System. The notified cases of Ross River virus infection came from 489 localities between 1985 and 1988, 805 between 1989 and 1992, and 1,157 between 1993 and 1996 (chi2(df = 2) = 680.9 P < 0.001). There was a marked increase in the number of localities where the cases were reported by 65 percent for the period of 1989-1992 and 137 percent for 1993-1996, compared with that for 1985-1988. The geographic distribution of the notified Ross River virus cases has expanded in Queensland over recent years. As Ross River virus disease has impacted considerably on tourism and industry, as well as on residents of affected areas, more research is required to explore the causes of the geographic expansion of the notified Ross River virus infections.
Climate Change and Infectious Diseases in Australia: Future Prospects, Adaptation Options, and Research Priorities
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 03-2011
Abstract: Climate change will have significant and erse impacts on human health. These impacts will include changes in infectious disease incidence. In this article, the authors review the current situation and potential future climate change impacts for respiratory, diarrheal, and vector-borne diseases in Australia. Based on this review, the authors suggest adaptive strategies within the health sector and also recommend future research priorities.
What can we learn about workplace heat stress management from a safety regulator complaints database?
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 06-03-2018
Using the excess heat factor to indicate heatwave-related urinary disease: a case study in Adelaide, South Australia
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 28-01-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00484-019-01674-5
Abstract: The excess heat factor (EHF) is being adopted nationally for heatwave forecasting in Australia, but there is limited research utilizing it as a predictor for heat-related morbidity from diseases of the urinary system (urinary diseases). In this study, the incidence of eight temperature-prone specific urinary disease categories was analyzed in relation to the EHF. Daily data for maximum and minimum temperature and data for metropolitan hospital emergency department presentations and inpatient admissions for urinary disease were acquired in Adelaide, South Australia, from 1 July 2003 to 31 March 2014. An increased incidence for urolithiasis, acute kidney injury (AKI), chronic kidney disease, and lower urinary tract infections was associated with the EHF. Using the Australian national heatwave definition with the EHF, emergency department presentations increased on heatwave days compared to non-heatwave days for total urinary disease (IRR 1.046, 95% CI 1.016-1.076), urolithiasis (IRR 1.106, 95% 1.046-1.169), and acute kidney injury (AKI) (IRR 1.416, 95% CI 1.258-1.594). Likewise, inpatient admissions increased for total urinary disease (IRR 1.090, 95% CI 1.048-1.133) and AKI (IRR 1.335, 95% CI 1.204-1.480). The EHF is a reliable metric for predicting heat-induced morbidity from urinary disease. Climate change-related elevations in temperature can increase morbidity from urinary disease, especially AKI and urolithiasis. Diseases of the urinary system should be highlighted when providing public health guidance during heatwaves indicated by the EHF.
Workers’ health and safety in the heat: current practice in Australian workplaces
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 19-05-2020
Frailty index and its associations with self-neglect, social support and sociodemographic characteristics among older adults in rural China
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1111/GGI.13280
Abstract: The frailty index is used to measure the health status of older in iduals. However, its association with self-neglect, social support and sociodemographic characteristics of older adults is underexplored. The purpose of the present study was to explore such associations among the rural older adults in Anhui Province of China, and to provide scientific evidence for policy-makers to improve the health and well-being of older adults in rural China. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken among 3048 older adults in rural China. The frailty index was measured by an accumulation of deficits of 40 items. Ordinal logistic regression models were carried out to explore the associations of self-neglect, social support and sociodemographic characteristics with the frailty index. The frailty rate was 15.8% among the participants. Older adults who showed self-neglect, were female, had a lower education level, had a lower monthly income and did not drink alcohol were more prone to having frailty in the 60-76 years age group, whereas older adults who showed self-neglect, had poor social support, were female, were not smokers and did not drink alcohol were more likely to have frailty in the ≥77 years age group (P < 0.05). The interaction effect on frailty between self-neglect and social support was found in the 60-76 years age group. Age differences were shown in the associations between self-neglect, social support, sociodemographic characteristics and frailty index, which suggests different measures should be used accordingly for frailty prevention and management. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2018 18: 987-996.
Climate variations and bacillary dysentery in northern and southern cities of China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2006.12.002
Abstract: This paper was aimed at examining the relationship between meteorological variables and bacillary dysentery in different climatic and geographic areas in China. Jinan in northern China, with a temperate climate, and Baoan in southern China, with a subtropical climate were chosen as study areas. Spearman correlations and seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) models were used to quantify the association between meteorological variables and dysentery. The Hockey Stick model was used to explore the threshold of the effect of temperatures. Maximum temperature, minimum temperature, rainfall, relative humidity and air pressure were significantly correlated with the incidence of dysentery in the both cities, with lag effects varying from zero to two months. In the SARIMA models, maximum and minimum temperatures were significantly associated with dysentery transmission. The thresholds for the effects of maximum and minimum temperatures were 17 degrees C and 8 degrees C, respectively, in the northern city. No thresholds were detected in the southern city. Climate variations have different impacts on the transmission of bacillary dysentery in temperate and subtropical cities in China. Public health action should be taken at this stage to reduce future risks of climate change with consideration of local climatic conditions.
The impact of heatwaves on workers[U+05F3] health and safety in Adelaide, South Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2014.04.042
Abstract: This study aims to investigate the impact of heatwaves on worker's health and safety to identify workers at higher risk of prevalent illnesses and injuries due to heatwaves and to provide evidence for policy-makers and service providers. South Australian workers' compensation claims data for 2001-2010 were transformed into time series format, merged with meteorological data and analysed using generalized estimating equation (GEE) models. For total injury claims there was no significant difference detected between heatwave and non-heatwave periods. However, for outdoor industries, daily claims increased significantly by 6.2% during heatwaves. Over-represented in hot weather were male labourers and tradespersons aged ≥ 55 years, and those employed in 'agriculture, forestry and fishing' and 'electricity, gas and water'. Occupational burns, wounds, lacerations, and utations as well as heat illnesses were significantly associated with heatwaves. Similarly, moving objects, contact with chemicals, and injuries related to environmental factors increased significantly during heatwaves, especially among middle-aged and older male workers. With the predicted increase of extremely hot weather, there is a need for relevant adaptation and prevention measures at both practice and policy levels for vulnerable work groups.
Health impacts of workplace heat exposure: An epidemiological review
Publisher: National Institute of Industrial Health
Date: 2014
Real-time forecasting and early warning of bacillary dysentery activity in four meteorological and geographic divisions in China.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2020
Predicting local dengue transmission in Guangzhou, China, through the influence of imported cases, mosquito density and climate variability
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 14-07-2014
Trends in migrant mortality rates in Australia 1981–2007: a focus on the National Health Priority Areas other than cancer
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 06-02-2014
DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2014.883368
Abstract: Migrants generally have more favourable mortality outcomes than the Australian-born population. The aim of this study is to update knowledge and inform future research in this field by examining mortality from musculoskeletal conditions, asthma, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, injuries and mental conditions between 1981 and 2007 among migrants in Australia. Average annual sex- and age-standardised mortality rates were calculated for each migrant group, period of death registration and cause of death. Mortality rates decreased among most groups for asthma, cardiovascular disease and motor vehicle accidents, with rates erging in the later time periods. The reverse was true for mental disorders, where Australian-born in iduals experienced the greatest increase in mortality. Migrants generally displayed more favourable mortality outcomes than their Australian-born counterparts. Migrants from Southern Europe appeared to have the greatest advantage. However, some migrants appeared to be over-represented in the areas of diabetes, suicide and mental health.
Extreme heat and health: Perspectives from health service providers in rural and remote communities in South Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-10-2013
Heat-related injuries in Australian workplaces: Perspectives from health and safety representatives
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
Extreme heat and occupational injuries in different climate zones: A systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological evidence
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Effect of ambient temperatures on category C notifiable infectious diarrhea in China: An analysis of national surveillance data
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2021
Weather variables and Japanese encephalitis in the metropolitan area of Jinan city, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2007.07.004
Abstract: To identify weather-related risk factors and their roles in Japanese encephalitis transmission and to provide policy implications for local health authorities and communities. Data on notified cases of Japanese encephalitis and weather variables over the period 1959-1979 were collected from Jinan city, a temperate city in China. Due to seasonality of the disease, the data analysis was restricted to five months from June to October each year. Spearman correlation analysis and time-series adjusted Poisson regression analysis were performed to quantify the relationship between weather and the number of cases. The Hockey Stick model was used to detect potential threshold temperatures. Monthly mean maximum and minimum temperatures, monthly total rainfall and monthly mean relative humidity were positively correlated to monthly notification of Japanese encephalitis, while monthly mean air pressure was inversely correlated. Lag times varied from one to two months. All these weather variables were significant in the adjusted Poisson regression model. Thresholds of 25.2 degrees C for maximum temperature and 21.0 degrees C for minimum temperature were also detected. Weather variables could have affected the transmission of Japanese encephalitis in this urban area of China. Public health interventions should be developed at this stage to reduce future risks related to climate change.
Estimating the population of female sex workers in two Chinese cities on the basis of the HIV/AIDS behavioural surveillance approach combined with a multiplier method
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 10-11-2007
Occupational heat stress and economic burden: A review of global evidence
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2021
Reply to Comments on the effects of air pollution on asthma hospital admissions in Adelaide, South Australia, 2003-2013: time series and case-crossover analyses'
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 27-12-2017
DOI: 10.1111/CEA.12841
The impact of climate variability on infectious disease transmission in China: Current knowledge and further directions.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2019.03.043
Abstract: Climate change may lead to emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases and pose public health challenges to human health and the already overloaded healthcare system. It is therefore important to review current knowledge and identify further directions in China, the largest developing country in the world. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to examine the relationship between climate variability and infectious disease transmission in China in the new millennium. Literature was identified using the following MeSH terms and keywords: climatic variables [temperature, precipitation, rainfall, humidity, etc.] and infectious disease [viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases]. Fifty-eight articles published from January 1, 2000 to May 30, 2018 were included in the final analysis, including bacterial diarrhea, dengue, malaria, Japanese encephalitis, HFRS, HFMD, Schistosomiasis. Each 1 °C rise may lead to 3.6%-14.8% increase in the incidence of bacillary dysentery disease in south China. A 1 °C rise was corresponded to an increase of 1.8%-5.9% in the weekly notified HFMD cases in west China. Each 1 °C rise of temperature, 1％ rise in relative humidity and one hour rise in sunshine led to an increase of 0.90%, 3.99% and 0.68% in the monthly malaria cases, respectively. Climate change with the increased temperature and irregular patterns of rainfall may affect the pathogen reproduction rate, their spread and geographical distribution, change human behavior and influence the ecology of vectors, and increase the rate of disease transmission in different regions of China. Exploring relevant adaptation strategies and the health burden of climate change will assist public health authorities to develop an early warning system and protect China's population health, especially in the new 1.5 °C scenario of the newly released IPCC special report.
El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and dysentery in Shandong province, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2006.03.005
Abstract: To investigate the impact of the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on dysentery transmission, the relationship between monthly dysentery cases in Shandong Province of China and the monthly Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), a broad index of ENSO, was examined over the period 1991-2003. Spearman correlations and generalized linear models were calculated to detect the association between the SOI and dysentery cases. Data from 1991 to 2001 were used to estimate the parameters, while data from 2002 to 2003 were used to test the forecasting ability of the model. After controlling for seasonality, autocorrelation, and a time-lagged effect, the results indicate that there was a significant negative association between the number of dysentery cases and the SOI, with a lagged effect of 2 months. A one-standard-deviation decrease in the SOI might cause up to 207 more dysentery cases per month in Shandong Province. This is the first report of the impact of the Southern Oscillation on dysentery risk in China, indicating that the SOI may be a useful early indicator of potential dysentery risk in Shandong Province.
Non-linear effect of temperature variation on childhood rotavirus infection: A time series study from Kathmandu, Nepal
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2020
Southern Oscillation Index and transmission of the Barmah Forest virus infection in Queensland, Australia
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 2000
DOI: 10.1136/JECH.54.1.69
Understanding current and projected emergency department presentations and associated healthcare costs in a changing thermal climate in Adelaide, South Australia
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 04-04-2022
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2021-107888
Abstract: Exposure to extreme temperatures is associated with increased emergency department (ED) presentations. The resulting burden on health service costs and the potential impact of climate change is largely unknown. This study examines the temperature-EDs/cost relationships in Adelaide, South Australia and how this may be impacted by increasing temperatures. A time series analysis using a distributed lag nonlinear model was used to explore the exposure–response relationships. The net-attributable, cold-attributable and heat-attributable ED presentations for temperature-related diseases and costs were calculated for the baseline (2014–2017) and future periods (2034–2037 and 2054–2057) under three climate representative concentration pathways (RCPs). The baseline heat-attributable ED presentations were estimated to be 3600 (95% empirical CI (eCI) 700 to 6500) with associated cost of $A4.7 million (95% eCI 1.8 to 7.5). Heat-attributable ED presentations and costs were projected to increase during 2030s and 2050s with no change in the cold-attributable burden. Under RCP8.5 and population growth, the increase in heat-attributable burden would be 1.9% (95% eCI 0.8% to 3.0%) for ED presentations and 2.5% (95% eCI 1.3% to 3.7%) for ED costs during 2030s. Under the same conditions, the heat effect is expected to increase by 3.7% (95% eCI 1.7% to 5.6%) for ED presentations and 5.0% (95% eCI 2.6% to 7.1%) for ED costs during 2050s. Projected climate change is likely to increase heat-attributable emergency presentations and the associated costs in Adelaide. Planning health service resources to meet these changes will be necessary as part of broader risk mitigation strategies and public health adaptation actions.
Perceptions of heat-susceptibility in older persons: Barriers to adaptation
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 19-12-2011
Climate variability and transmission of epidemic polyarthritis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-1998
How environmental conditions impact mosquito ecology and Japanese encephalitis: An eco-epidemiological approach
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2015.03.002
Abstract: Japanese encephalitis (JE) is one of the major vector-borne diseases in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific region, posing a threat to human health. In rural and suburban areas, traditional rice farming and intensive pig breeding provide an ideal environment for both mosquito development and the transmission of JEV among human beings. Combining surveillance data for mosquito vectors, human JE cases, and environmental conditions in Changsha, China, 2004-2009, generalized threshold models were constructed to project the mosquito and JE dynamics. Temperature and rainfall were found to be closely associated with mosquito density at 1, and 4month lag, respectively. The two thresholds, maximum temperature of 22-23°C for mosquito development and minimum temperature of 25-26°C for JEV transmission, play key roles in the ecology of JEV. The model predicts that, in the upper regime, a 1g/m(3) increase in absolute humidity would on average increase human cases by 68-84%. A shift in mosquito species composition in 2007 was observed, and possibly caused by a drought. Effective predictive models could be used in risk management to provide early warnings for potential JE transmission.
Particulate air pollution and cardiorespiratory hospital admissions in a temperate Australian city: A case-crossover analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2011.09.027
Abstract: Although ambient air pollution exposure has been linked with poor health in many parts of the world, no previous study has investigated the effect on morbidity in the city of Adelaide, South Australia. To explore the association between particulate matter (PM) and hospitalisations, including respiratory and cardiovascular admissions in Adelaide, South Australia. For the study period September 2001 to October 2007, daily counts of all-cause, cardiovascular and respiratory hospital admissions were collected, as well as daily air quality data including concentrations of particulates, ozone and nitrogen dioxide. Visibility codes for present weather conditions identified days when airborne dust or smoke was observed. The associations between PM and hospitalisations were estimated using time-stratified case-crossover analyses controlling for covariates including temperature, relative humidity, other pollutants, day of the week and public holidays. Mean PM(10) concentrations were higher in the warm season, whereas PM(2.5) concentrations were higher in the cool season. Hospital admissions were associated with PM(10) in the cool season and with PM(2.5) in both seasons. No significant effect of PM on all-age respiratory admissions was detected, however cardiovascular admissions were associated with both PM(2.5) and PM(10) in the cool season with the highest effects for PM(2.5) (4.48%, 95% CI: 0.74%, 8.36% increase per 10μg/m(3) increase in PM(2.5)). These findings suggest that despite the city's relatively low levels of air pollution, PM concentrations are associated with increases in morbidity in Adelaide. Further studies are needed to investigate the sources of PM which may be contributing to the higher cool season effects.
The effects of extreme heat on human mortality and morbidity in Australia: Implications for public health
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 19-01-2011
Abstract: Most regions of Australia are exposed to hot summers and regular extreme heat events and numerous studies have associated high ambient temperatures with adverse health outcomes in Australian cities. Extreme environmental heat can trigger the onset of acute conditions, including heat stroke and dehydration, as well as exacerbate a range of underlying illnesses. Consequently, in the absence of adaptation, the associated mortality and morbidity are expected to increase in a warming climate, particularly within the vulnerable populations of the elderly, children, those with chronic diseases, and people engaged in physical labour in noncooled environments. There is a need for further research to address the evidence needs of public health agencies in Australia. Building resilience to extreme heat events, especially for the most vulnerable groups, is a priority. Public health professionals and executives need to be aware of the very real and urgent need to act now.
El Nino-Southern Oscillation and vector-borne diseases in Anhui, China
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 06-2005
Abstract: This paper examines the relationship between monthly Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and monthly incidences of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and malaria in Anhui Province, China, over the periods 1971-1992 and 1966-1987, respectively. On the basis of monthly data over a 22-year period, results indicated that there were positive and negative relationships, respectively, between the SOI and monthly incidences of malaria and HFRS. The results suggest that the SOI could be used as an index in the study of the association of climate variability with the transmission of such diseases, particularly over larger areas, such as at a provincial or even state level, where averaging rainfall or temperature data across regions is inappropriate.
Prevalence of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in mainland China: Analysis of National Surveillance Data, 2004-2009
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 27-07-2012
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268811001063
Abstract: The monthly and annual incidence of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in China for 2004–2009 was analysed in conjunction with associated geographical and demographic data. We applied the seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model to fit and forecast monthly HFRS incidence in China. HFRS was endemic in most regions of China except Hainan Province. There was a high risk of infection for male farmers aged 30–50 years. The fitted SARIMA(0,1,1)(0,1,1) 12 model had a root-mean-square-error criterion of 0·0133 that indicated accurate forecasts were possible. These findings have practical applications for more effective HFRS control and prevention. The conducted SARIMA model may have applications as a decision support tool in HFRS control and risk-management planning programmes.
Health professionals' perceptions of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome and climate change in China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2017
The effect of heat waves on hospital admissions for renal disease in a temperate city of Australia
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 18-08-2008
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/DYN165
Abstract: A rarely investigated consequence of heat exposure is renal dysfunction resulting from dehydration and hyperthermia. Our study aims to quantify the relationship between exposure to extreme high temperatures and renal morbidity in South Australia. Poisson regression accounting for over dispersion, seasonality and long-term trend was used to estimate the effect of heat waves on hospital admissions for renal disease, acute renal failure and renal dialysis over a 12-year period. Selected comorbidities were investigated as possible contributing risk factors. Admissions for renal disease and acute renal failure were increased during heat waves compared with non-heat wave periods with an incidence rate ratio of 1.100 [95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.003-1.206] and 1.255 (95% CI 1.037-1.519), respectively. Hospitalizations for dialysis showed no corresponding increase. Comorbid diabetes did not increase the risk of renal admission, however 'effects of heat and light' and 'exposure to excessive natural heat' (collectively termed effects of heat) were identified as risk factors. Our findings suggest that as heat waves become more frequent, the burden of renal morbidity may increase in susceptible in iduals as an indirect consequence of global warming.
Risk factors, health effects and Behaviour in older people during extreme heat: A survey in South Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 03-12-2013
The effects of air pollution on asthma hospital admissions in Adelaide, South Australia, 2003–2013: time-series and case–crossover analyses
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 20-09-2016
DOI: 10.1111/CEA.12795
Abstract: Air pollution can have adverse health effects on asthma sufferers, but the effects vary with geographic, environmental and population characteristics. There has been no long time-series study in Australia to quantify the effects of environmental factors including pollen on asthma hospitalizations. This study aimed to assess the seasonal impact of air pollutants and aeroallergens on the risk of asthma hospital admissions for adults and children in Adelaide, South Australia. Data on hospital admissions, meteorological conditions, air quality and pollen counts for the period 2003-2013 were sourced. Time-series analysis and case-crossover analysis were used to assess the short-term effects of air pollution on asthma hospitalizations. For the time-series analysis, generalized log-linear quasi-Poisson and negative binomial regressions were used to assess the relationships, controlling for seasonality and long-term trends using flexible spline functions. For the case-crossover analysis, conditional logistic regression was used to compute the effect estimates with time-stratified referent selection strategies. A total of 36,024 asthma admissions were considered. Findings indicated that the largest effects on asthma admissions related to PM Findings suggest that children are more vulnerable and the associations between exposure to air pollutants and asthma hospitalizations tended to be stronger in the cool season compared to the warm season, with the exception of ozone. This study has important public health implications and provides valuable evidence for the development of policies for asthma management.
Transmission of Haemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome in China and the Role of Climate Factors: A Review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJID.2015.02.010
Abstract: Haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is a rodent-borne disease that poses a serious public health threat in China. HFRS is caused by hantaviruses, mainly Seoul virus in urban areas and Hantaan virus in agricultural areas. Although preventive measures including vaccination programs and rodent control measures have resulted in a decline in cases in recent years, there has been an increase in incidence in some areas and new endemic areas have emerged. This review summarises the recent literature relating to the effects of climatic factors on the incidence of HFRS in China and discusses future research directions. Temperature, precipitation and humidity affect crop yields, rodent breeding patterns and disease transmission, and these can be influenced by a changing climate. Detailed surveillance of infections caused by Hantaan and Seoul viruses and further research on the viral agents will aid in interpretation of spatiotemporal patterns and a better understanding of the environmental and ecological drivers of HFRS amid China's rapidly urbanising landscape and changing climate.
The geography of Ross River virus infection in South Australia, 2000-2013.
Publisher: Australian Government Department of Health
Date: 18-05-2020
Abstract: Introduction Ross River virus (RRV) disease is Australia’s most common arthropod-borne disease which has an important impact on population health and productivity. The aim of this study was to identify the spatial and temporal distribution of RRV notifications during 2000–2013 in South Australia (SA). Methods The epidemiologic patterns of RRV notifications in SA from January 2000 to December 2013 were examined at a statistical local area (SLA) level. Spatial-temporal analyses were conducted using patient-reported place of exposure to characterise the recurrence of RRV infection stratified by age and sex. Results During the study period, a total of 3,687 RRV disease notifications were recorded in the state with state-wide mean annual rates of 16.8 cases per 100,000 persons and a 1:1.32 male:female ratio. The SLAs reporting cases of RRV disease exhibited spatial and temporal variation. Notified cases of RRV disease occurred more frequently in summer and autumn. A geographic expansion was observed of the area within which RRV cases occur. The comparison of age- and sex-standardised incidence rates, calculated by place of residence and patient-reported place of exposure, highlights the importance of using the latter to accurately display geospatial disease trends over time. Areas with the largest proportion of visitor cases and having the highest risk were mostly along the River Murray, which provides many vector mosquito habitats. Conclusion Although public health interventions should be considered in all SLAs where RRV occurs, we suggest that priority should be given to the Riverland areas identified as highest risk.
Family self-medication and antibiotics abuse for children and juveniles in a Chinese city
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2000
DOI: 10.1016/S0277-9536(99)00304-4
Abstract: To identify the determinants of self-medication and antibiotics abuse by parents treating their children aged between 2 and 18 over the previous year, an investigation was conducted in Hefei City, China in April, 1995. A total of 1596 students from a kindergarten, a primary school and a high school were included in the study, and 1459 completed questionnaires were collected (the response rate: 91.4%). The results showed the rate of parental self-medication for their children in the s le was 59.4%. It increased with children's age about 51% of children had received parental self-medication on six or more occasions during the 1-year period and 32.8% on four to five occasions there were associations between parental self-prescribers and sources of medicine and severity of disease. The rate of antibiotics abuse was 35.7%. Logistic regression analysis showed that there were significant associations between self-medication and payment of the mother's medical fees by employers, severity of diseases as well as the mother's educational level.
Using a qualitative phenomenological approach to inform the etiology and prevention of occupational heat-related injuries in Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-01-2020
Abstract: Epidemiological evidence has shown an association between exposure to high temperatures and occupational injuries, an issue gaining importance with environmental change. The aim of this study was to better understand contributing risk factors and preventive actions based on personal experiences. Interviews were conducted with 21 workers from five Australian states using a critical phenomenological approach to capture the lived experiences of participants, whilst exploring contextual factors that surround these experiences. Two case studies are presented: a cerebrovascular injury and injuries among seasonal horticulture workers. Other accounts of heat-related injuries and heat stress are also presented. Risk factors were classified as in idual, interpersonal and organizational. In terms of prevention, participants recommended greater awareness of heat risks and peer-support for co-workers. Adding value to current evidence, we have provided new insights into the etiology of the health consequences of workplace heat exposure with workers identifying a range of influencing factors, prevention measures and adaptation strategies. Underpinning the importance of these are future climate change scenarios, suggesting that extended hot seasons will lead to increasing numbers of workers at risk of heat-stress and associated occupational injuries.
Spatial, temporal, and occupational risks of Q fever infection in South Australia, 2007-2017.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.JIPH.2019.10.002
Abstract: The burden of Q fever on at risk population groups in Australia is substantial, despite the availability of a vaccine. Our objectives were to: (a) describe the epidemiology of notified Q fever cases in South Australia (SA), (b) identify if Q fever infection is associated with occupational exposure, and (c) detect the possible spatial and temporal association of Q fever with livestock density. Laboratory confirmed Q fever notifications from January 2007 to December 2017 were obtained from the SA Health Department. Q fever notification rates and incidence rate ratios were calculated for gender, notification year, age group, occupation category, and primary exposure suburb. Spatial mapping and analysis of Q fever notifications was undertaken using livestock data, and abattoirs and saleyards located in SA. During the study period 167 Q fever cases were notified. Males predominated (72%), with higher rates observed in the 21-40year age group (1.52/100,000), and eight cases (5%) reported prior Q fever vaccination. Most frequently listed occupation categories were livestock farmers (35%), and abattoir workers (20%), but in 15% of cases, there was no known occupational risk. Highest notifications (22%) were recorded in the suburb containing an abattoir. The number of goats, cattle and sheep was not associated with Q fever notifications. Q fever predominance among males in their twenties and thirties may indicate vaccination under-coverage among the young workforce possibly due to high turnover of workers. Q fever among those vaccinated raises concerns about vaccine efficacy or potential waning immunity. Our findings are consistent with previous studies highlighting abattoir workers as a high-risk occupational group because of its transient workforce, and low vaccination coverage. Q fever notifications in SA may be unrelated with spatial livestock density. Further One Health research involving veterinary, public health and environmental data is required.
What do we know about the healthcare costs of extreme heat exposure? A comprehensive literature review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.11.479
Abstract: Exposure to extreme heat can lead to a range of heat-related illnesses, exacerbate pre-existing health conditions and cause increased demand on the healthcare system. A projected increase in temperature may lead to greater healthcare expenditure, however, at present the costs of heat-related healthcare utilization is under-researched. This study aims to review the literature on heat-related costs for the healthcare system with a focus on ED visits, hospitalization, and ambulance call-outs. PubMed, Scopus, and Embase were used to search relevant literature from database inception to December 2017 and limited to human studies and English language. After screening, a total of ten papers were identified for final inclusion. In general, the healthcare costs of heat extremes have been poorly investigated in developed countries and not reported in developing countries where the largest heat-vulnerable populations reside. Studies showed that exposure to extreme heat was causing a substantial economic burden on healthcare systems. Females, the elderly, low-income families, and ethnic minorities had the highest healthcare costs on a range of health services utilization. Although a few studies have estimated heat healthcare costs, none of them quantified the temperature-healthcare cost relationship. There is a need to systematically examine heat-attributable costs for the healthcare system in the context of climate change to better inform heat-related policy making, target interventions and resource allocation.
Dengue control in the context of climate change: Views from health professionals in different geographic regions of China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.JIPH.2018.12.010
Abstract: Dengue is a significant climate-sensitive disease. Public health professionals play an important role in prevention and control of the disease. This study aimed to explore dengue control and prevention in the context of climate change in China. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 630 public health professionals in 2015. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were performed. More than 80% of participants from southwest and central China believed climate change would affect dengue. However, participants from northeast China were less likely to believe so (65%). Sixty-nine percent of participants in Yunnan perceived that dengue had emerged/re-emerged in recent years, compared with 40.6% in Henan and 23.8% in Liaoning. Less than 60% of participants thought current prevention and control programs had been effective. Participants believed mosquitoes in high abundance, imported cases and climate change were main risk factors for dengue in China. There were varying views of dengue in China. Professionals in areas susceptible to dengue were more likely to be concerned about climate change and dengue. Current prevention and control strategies need to be improved. Providing more information for staff in lower levels of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention may help in containing a possible increase of dengue.
Adaptation to extreme heat and climate change in culturally and linguistically diverse communities
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 31-10-2014
Meteorological variables and malaria in a Chinese temperate city: A twenty-year time-series data analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2010.03.005
Abstract: This study aimed to examine the impact of climate variation on malaria in a temperate region of China. A 20-year historical time-series data analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between meteorological variables, including maximum and minimum temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and cases of malaria in Jinan, a temperate city in northern China. Data were retrieved from 1959 and 1979 and analyzed on a monthly basis. Spearman correlation and cross-correlation analyses were performed to identify time lag values between each meteorological variable and the number of malaria cases. The Seasonal Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (SARIMA) model was used to quantify the relationship between the meteorological variables and malaria cases. The SARIMA models indicate that a 1 degrees C rise in maximum temperature may be related to a 7.7% to 12.7% increase and a 1 degrees C rise in minimum temperature may result in approximately 11.8% to 15.8% increase in the number of malaria cases. A clear association between malaria and other selected weather variables, including rainfall and humidity, has not been detected in this study. Temperature could play an important role in the transmission of malaria in temperate regions of China.
El Niño and incidence of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in China
Publisher: American Medical Association (AMA)
Date: 08-01-2003
Surface water areas significantly impacted 2014 dengue outbreaks in Guangzhou, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.05.039
Abstract: Dengue transmission in urban areas is strongly influenced by a range of biological and environmental factors, yet the key drivers still need further exploration. To better understand mechanisms of environment-mosquito-urban dengue transmission, we propose an empirical model parameterized and cross-validated from a unique dataset including viral gene sequences, vector dynamics and human dengue cases in Guangzhou, China, together with a 36-year urban environmental change maps investigated by spatiotemporal satellite image fusion. The dengue epidemics in Guangzhou are highly episodic and were not associated with annual rainfall over time. Our results indicate that urban environmental changes, especially variations in surface area covered by water in urban areas, can substantially alter the virus population and dengue transmission. The recent severe dengue outbreaks in Guangzhou may be due to the surge in an artificial lake construction, which could increase infection force between vector (mainly Aedes albopictus) and host when urban water area significantly increased. Impacts of urban environmental change on dengue dynamics may not have been thoroughly investigated in the past studies and more work needs to be done to better understand the consequences of urbanization processes in our changing world.
Review Paper: The Health Status of Migrants in Australia: A Review
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 04-2010
Abstract: This review summarizes the findings of studies conducted in Australia between 1980 and 2008 that focused on the health status of migrants in one or more of Australia’s National Health Priority Areas (NHPAs), identifies gaps in knowledge, and suggests further research directions. Systematic literature searches were performed on CINAHL, MediText, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE. It was found that the majority of migrants enjoy better health than the Australian-born population in the conditions that are part of the NHPAs, with the exception of diabetes. Mediterranean migrants have particularly favorable health outcomes. The migrant health advantage appears to deteriorate with increasing duration of residence. Many of the analyzed studies were conducted more than 10 years ago or had a narrow focus. Little is known about the health status of migrants with respect to a number of NHPAs, including musculoskeletal conditions and asthma.The health status of recently arrived migrant groups from the Middle East and Africa has not been explored in detail.
Heat adaptation and place: experiences in South Australian rural communities
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 30-06-2017
Projected Years Lost due to Disabilities (YLDs) for bacillary dysentery related to increased temperature in temperate and subtropical cities of China
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1039/C1EM10391A
Abstract: The impact of climate change on enteric infection has been a concern in recent years. This study aims to project disability burdens of bacillary dysentery (BD) associated with increasing temperature in different climatic zones in China. Years Lost due to Disabilities (YLDs) were used as the measure of burden of bacillary dysentery in this study. A temperate city in northern China and a subtropical city in southern China were selected as the study areas. The quantitative relationship between temperature and the number of cases in each city was base on the regression models developed in our previous studies. YLDs for bacillary dysentery in 2000 were used as the baseline data. Projection of YLDs for bacillary dysentery in 2020 and 2050 under future temperature scenarios were conducted. Demographic changes over the next 20 to 50 years in study cities were considered in the projections. Under the temperature scenarios alone, the YLDs for bacillary dysentery may increase by up to 80% by 2020 and 174% by 2050 in the temperate city and up to 75% increase in the YLDs by 2020 and a 147% increase by 2050 in the tropical city. Considering potential changes in both temperature and population size and structure, if other factors remain constant, compared with the YLDs observed in 2000, the YLDs for bacillary dysentery may double by 2020 and triple by 2050 in both the temperate and subtropical cities in China. The temperature-related health burden of enteric infection in China may greatly increase in the future if there is no effective intervention. Relevant public health strategies should be developed at an earlier stage to prevent and reduce the impact of infectious disease associated with climate change.
Health risks from non-optimal temperatures in different populations and regions in China: Tailored intervention strategies are needed
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2023
Climate variations and salmonellosis transmission in Adelaide, South Australia: A comparison between regression models
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-07-2008
DOI: 10.1007/S00484-007-0109-4
Abstract: This is the first study to identify appropriate regression models for the association between climate variation and salmonellosis transmission. A comparison between different regression models was conducted using surveillance data in Adelaide, South Australia. By using notified salmonellosis cases and climatic variables from the Adelaide metropolitan area over the period 1990-2003, four regression methods were examined: standard Poisson regression, autoregressive adjusted Poisson regression, multiple linear regression, and a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model. Notified salmonellosis cases in 2004 were used to test the forecasting ability of the four models. Parameter estimation, goodness-of-fit and forecasting ability of the four regression models were compared. Temperatures occurring 2 weeks prior to cases were positively associated with cases of salmonellosis. Rainfall was also inversely related to the number of cases. The comparison of the goodness-of-fit and forecasting ability suggest that the SARIMA model is better than the other three regression models. Temperature and rainfall may be used as climatic predictors of salmonellosis cases in regions with climatic characteristics similar to those of Adelaide. The SARIMA model could, thus, be adopted to quantify the relationship between climate variations and salmonellosis transmission.
Web-based HIV/AIDS behavioral surveillance among men who have sex with men: potential and challenges
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2008
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJID.2007.06.007
Abstract: With more men who have sex with men (MSM) seeking sexual partners through the Internet, the Internet has been characterized as a newly emerging risk environment for HIV transmission. Meanwhile, the flourishing of gay websites provides a good opportunity for health professionals to conduct systematic HIV/AIDS behavioral surveillance among MSM. Effective methods to recruit online MSM users have been developed, and online surveys have suggested many practical advantages over surveys in the traditional gay community. Although surveys among MSM via the Internet have a few limitations and risks, online surveillance can still be viewed as a feasible and convenient approach, especially in countries where the HIV/AIDS epidemic is concentrated in high-risk populations and where the conducting of such surveillance in traditional gay venues is difficult.
Heatwave and work-related injuries and illnesses in Adelaide, Australia: a case-crossover analysis using the Excess Heat Factor (EHF) as a universal heatwave index
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-11-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00420-018-1376-6
Abstract: Heatwaves, or extended periods of extreme heat, are predicted to increase in frequency, intensity and duration with climate change, but their impact on occupational injury has not been extensively studied. We examined the relationship between heatwaves of varying severity and work-related injuries and illnesses. We used a newly proposed metric of heatwave severity, the Excess Heat Factor (EHF), which accounts for local climate characteristics and acclimatization and compared it with heatwaves defined by daily maximum temperature. Work-related injuries and illnesses were identified from two administrative data sources: workers' compensation claims and work-related ambulance call-outs for the years 2003-2013 in Adelaide, Australia. The EHF metrics were obtained from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. A time-stratified case-crossover regression model was used to examine associations between heatwaves of three levels of severity, workers' compensation claims, and work-related ambulance call-outs. There was an increase in work-related ambulance call-outs and compensation claims during low and moderately severe heatwaves as defined using the EHF, and a non-significant decline during high-severity heatwaves. Positive associations were observed during moderate heatwaves in compensation claims made by new workers (RR 1.31, 95% CI 1.10-1.55), workers in medium-sized enterprises (RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.01-1.30), indoor industries (RR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01-1.17), males (RR 1.13, 95% CI 1.03-1.23) and laborers (RR 1.21, 95% CI 1.04-1.39). Workers should adopt appropriate precautions during moderately severe heatwaves, when the risks of work-related injuries and illnesses are increased. Workplace policies and guidelines need to consider the health and safety of workers during heatwaves with relevant prevention and adaptation measures.
Association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism and epilepsy susceptibility: A meta-analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.SEIZURE.2014.01.018
Abstract: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism has been implicated as a potential risk factor for epilepsy. To date, many case-control studies have investigated the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and epilepsy susceptibility. However, those findings were inconsistent. The objective of this study is to evaluate the precise association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and epilepsy. An electronic search of PubMed, EMBASE for papers on the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and epilepsy susceptibility was performed. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the association. Ten case-control studies containing 1713 cases and 1867 controls regarding MTHFR C677T polymorphism were selected. A significant association between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and epilepsy susceptibility was revealed in this meta-analysis (for T vs. C: OR=1.19, 95% CI=1.08-1.32 for TT+CT vs. CC: OR=1.20, 95% CI=1.05-1.38 for TT vs. CC: OR=1.48, 95% CI=1.20-1.83 for TT vs. CT+CC: OR=1.35, 95% CI=1.12-1.64). In subgroup analysis by ethnicity, the results also indicated the association between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and epilepsy susceptibility within the Asian populations (for T vs. C: OR=1.55, 95% CI=1.15-2.07 for TT+CT vs. CC: OR=1.67, 95% CI=1.08-2.59 for TT vs. CC: OR=2.33, 95% CI=1.30-4.20 for TT vs. CT+CC: OR=1.89, 95% CI=1.12-3.18). The results indicated that MTHFR C677T polymorphism was associated with an increased risk of epilepsy. However, further studies in various regions are needed to confirm the findings from this meta-analysis.
The impact of summer temperatures and heatwaves on mortality and morbidity in Perth, Australia 1994-2008
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2011.11.011
Abstract: Climate change projections have drawn attention to the risks of extreme heat and the importance of public health interventions to minimise the impact. The city of Perth, Western Australia, frequently experiences hot summer conditions, with recent summers showing above average temperatures. Daily maximum and minimum temperatures, mortality, emergency department (ED) presentations and hospital admissions data were acquired for Perth for the period 1994 to 2008. Using an observed/expected analysis, the temperature thresholds for mortality were estimated at 34-36°C (maximum) and 20°C (minimum). Generalised estimating equations (GEEs) were used to estimate the percentage increase in mortality and morbidity outcomes with a 10°C increment in temperature, with adjustment for air pollutants. Effect estimates are reported as incidence rate ratios (IRRs). The health impact of heatwave days (three or more days of ≥35°C) was also investigated. A 9.8% increase in daily mortality (IRR 1.098 95%CI: 1.007-1.196) was associated with a 10°C increase in maximum temperature above threshold. Total ED presentations increased by 4.4% (IRR 1.044 95%CI: 1.033-1.054) and renal-related ED presentations by 10.2% (IRR 1.102 95%CI: 1.071-1.135) per 10°C increase in maximum temperature. Heatwave days were associated with increases in daily mortality and ED presentations, while total hospital admissions were decreased on heatwave days. Public health interventions will be increasingly important to minimise the adverse health impacts of hot weather in Perth, particularly if the recent trend of rising average temperatures and more hot days continues as projected.
Factors Influencing Knowledge, Food Safety Practices and Food Preferences during Warm Weather of Salmonella and Campylobacter Cases in South Australia
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 03-2017
Abstract: To assess food safety practices, food shopping preferences, and eating behaviors of people diagnosed with Salmonella or C ylobacter infection in the warm seasons, and to identify socioeconomic factors associated with behavior and practices. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Salmonella and C ylobacter cases with onset of illness from January 1 to March 31, 2013. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined relationships between socioeconomic position and food safety knowledge and practices, shopping and food preferences, and preferences, perceptions, and knowledge about food safety information on warm days. Respondents in our study engaged in unsafe personal and food hygiene practices. They also carried out unsafe food preparation practices, and had poor knowledge of foods associated with an increased risk of foodborne illness. Socioeconomic position did not influence food safety practices. We found that people's reported eating behaviors and food preferences were influenced by warm weather. Our study has explored preferences and practices related to food safety in the warm season months. This is important given that warmer ambient temperatures are projected to rise, both globally and in Australia, and will have a substantial effect on the burden of infectious gastroenteritis including foodborne disease. Our results provide information about modifiable behaviors for the prevention of foodborne illness in the household in the warm weather and the need for information to be disseminated across the general population. An understanding of the knowledge and factors associated with human behavior during warmer weather is critical for public health interventions on foodborne prevention.
Study of strong dipole and quadrupole plasmon resonance in Ag nanorings antenna
Publisher: The Optical Society
Date: 05-01-2015
DOI: 10.1364/OME.5.000210
Prevalence of suicidal ideation and associated factors among HIV-positive MSM in Anhui, China
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 23-07-2015
Abstract: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with suicidal ideation among HIV-positive men who have sex with men (MSM) in Anhui, China. A cross-sectional study was conducted to recruit HIV-positive MSM in Anhui, China. A total of 184 HIV-positive MSM gave informed consent and completed the interview. Correlates of suicidal ideation were assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Fifty-seven (31%) of HIV-positive MSM had suicidal ideations within six months before the interview. Multivariable analyses showed that learning of their HIV status in the past 12 months (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.4, 95% CI = 1.6–7.3), perceived HIV stigma (AOR = 2.4, 95% CI = 1.1–5.2), depression symptoms (AOR = 2.6, 95% CI = 1.1–5.9) and anxiety symptoms (AOR = 2.7, 95% CI = 1.2–6.1) were significantly associated with the suicidal ideation among HIV-positive MSM. The results indicated that suicidal ideation was common among HIV-positive MSM in Anhui, China. There is an urgent need to establish psychological counselling services among HIV-positive MSM in China. Targeting of these potential risk factors could be an effective approach to reduce the suicide risk among this high-risk subgroup by the implementation of early intervention measurements.
Acquisition of non-vibration ICF cryogenic target interference pattern
Publisher: Shanghai Institute of Optics and Fine Mechanics
Date: 2010
Seasonal variation in gonorrhoea incidence among men who have sex with men
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1071/SH16122
Abstract: Background After reviewing urethral gonorrhoea cases among men who have sex with men (MSM) at the South Australia Specialist Sexual Health (SASSH) in Adelaide, Australia, we noticed peaks of gonorrhoea among MSM occurred predominantly in the first quarter of the year (January–March). The aim of this study was to formally test this hypothesis against data from a similar period at three sexual health services, one each in Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. Methods: This study was a retrospective analysis of computerised records at the three Australian sexual health services. Potential risk factors for urethral gonorrhoea among MSM were also reviewed at the SASSH. Results: More peaks of gonorrhoea cases were observed in the first quarter of the year in Adelaide and Sydney and in the second and fourth quarter in Melbourne. Factors independently associated with urethral gonorrhoea at the SASSH were being a young MSM, especially those aged 25–29 (odds ratio (OR) 2.66, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.00–3.54), having more than one sexual partner (OR 1.71, 95% CI: 1.43–2.04), having had sex interstate and overseas (OR 1.52, 95% CI: 1.06–2.17), and presenting in the first quarter (OR 1.30, 95% CI: 1.10–1.55). Conclusion: Our data suggest that gonorrhoea among MSM occurs in a seasonal pattern, particularly late summer into early autumn. This has implications for the provision of health services over the year and for the timing of health promotion activities.
Climate variability and Ross River virus infections in Riverland, South Australia, 1992-2004
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 19-03-2009
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268809002441
Abstract: Ross River virus (RRV) infection is the most common notifiable vector-borne disease in Australia, with around 6000 cases annually. This study aimed to examine the relationship between climate variability and notified RRV infections in the Riverland region of South Australia in order to set up an early warning system for the disease in temperate-climate regions. Notified data of RRV infections were collected by the South Australian Department of Health. Climatic variables and monthly river flow were provided by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and South Australian Department of Water, Land and Bio ersity Conservation over the period 1992–2004. Spearman correlation and time-series-adjusted Poisson regression analysis were performed. The results indicate that increases in monthly mean minimum and maximum temperatures, monthly total rainfall, monthly mean Southern Oscillation Index and monthly flow in the Murray River increase the likelihood, but an increase in monthly mean relative humidity decreases the likelihood, of disease transmission in the region, with different time-lag effects. This study demonstrates that a useful early warning system can be developed for local regions based on the statistical analysis of readily available climate data. These early warning systems can be utilized by local public health authorities to develop disease prevention and control activities.
Climate change and infectious disease research in Nepal: Are the available prerequisites supportive enough to researchers?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.ACTATROPICA.2020.105337
Abstract: Although Nepal has been identified as a country highly vulnerable to adverse health and socioeconomic impacts arising from climate change, extant research on climate sensitive infectious diseases has yet to develop the evidence base to adequately address these threats. In this opinion paper we identify and characterise basic requirements that are hindering the progress of climate change and infectious disease research in Nepal. Our opinion is that immediate attention should be given to strengthening Nepal's public health surveillance system, promoting inter-sectoral collaboration, improving public health capacity, and enhancing community engagement in disease surveillance. Moreover, we advocate for greater technical support of public health researchers, and data sharing among data custodians and epidemiologists/researchers, to generate salient evidence to guide relevant public health policy formulation aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change on human health in Nepal. International studies on climate variability and infectious diseases have clearly demonstrated that climate sensitive diseases, namely vector-borne and food/water-borne diseases, are sensitive to climate variation and climate change. This research has driven the development and implementation of climate-based early warning systems for preventing potential outbreaks of climate-sensitive infectious diseases across many European and African countries. Similarly, we postulate that Nepal would greatly benefit from a climate-based early warning system, which would assist in identification or prediction of conditions suitable for disease emergence and facilitate a timely response to reduce mortality and morbidity during epidemics.
Transdisciplinary Research Priorities for Human and Planetary Health in the Context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 30-11-2020
Abstract: Human health and wellbeing and the health of the biosphere are inextricably linked. The state of Earth’s life-support systems, including freshwater, oceans, land, bio ersity, atmosphere, and climate, affect human health. At the same time, human activities are adversely affecting natural systems. This review paper is the outcome of an interdisciplinary workshop under the auspices of the Future Earth Health Knowledge Action Network (Health KAN). It outlines a research agenda to address cross-cutting knowledge gaps to further understanding and management of the health risks of these global environmental changes through an expert consultation and review process. The research agenda has four main themes: (1) risk identification and management (including related to water, hygiene, sanitation, and waste management) food production and consumption oceans and extreme weather events and climate change. (2) Strengthening climate-resilient health systems (3) Monitoring, surveillance, and evaluation and (4) risk communication. Research approaches need to be transdisciplinary, multi-scalar, inclusive, equitable, and broadly communicated. Promoting resilient and sustainable development are critical for achieving human and planetary health.
Differences between Internet and community samples of MSM: Implications for behavioral surveillance among MSM in China
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 29-09-2008
DOI: 10.1080/09540120701842829
Abstract: This study compared the difference between two s les of men who have sex with men (MSM) in Harbin, China, using cross-sectional data that were collected via the Internet and through conventional venue-based outreach. All participants in both s les lived in or nearby Harbin in northeast China. Results showed that the Internet s le was significantly younger, more educated and more likely to be students and to self-identify as homosexual than the community s le. After controlling for demographic characteristics, the community s le was more likely to have had sex with females (OR 2.01, CI 1.22-3.30, p=0.006) and to have had > or =6 male partners in the previous six months than the Internet s le (OR 4.88, CI 3.51-6.80, p or =6 male partners during the previous six months than those in the Internet s le (p=0.001). In conclusion, the online and offline s les of MSM are significantly different and carry different levels of risk for HIV transmission. Using the Internet as a data collection method may serve as an additional mechanism for the existing gay venue-based behavioral surveillance system in China.
Projected burden of disease for Salmonella infection due to increased temperature in Australian temperate and subtropical regions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2012.01.007
Abstract: This study aimed to project the future disability burden of Salmonella infection associated with increased temperature in future in temperate and subtropical regions of Australia in order to provide recommendations for public health policy to respond to climate change. Years Lost due to Disabilities (YLDs) were used as the measure of the burden of disease in this study. Regions in temperate and subtropical Australia were selected for this study. Future temperature change scenarios in the study were based on Australian projections, developed by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (CSIRO). YLDs for Salmonella infection in 2000 were calculated as the baseline data. YLDs for Salmonella infection in 2030 and 2050 under future temperature change scenarios were projected based on the quantitative relationship between temperature and disease examined in previously published regression models. Future demographic change was also considered in this analysis. Compared with the YLDs in 2000, increasing temperature and demographic changes may lead to a 9%-48% increase in the YLDs for Salmonella infection by 2030 and a 31%-87% increase by 2050 in the temperate region, and a 51%-100% increase by 2030 and an 87%-143% increase by 2050 in the subtropical region, if other factors remain constant. Temperature-related health burden of Salmonella infection in Australia may increase in the future due to change in climate and demography in the absence of effective public health interventions. Relevant public health strategies should be developed at an early stage to prevent and reduce the health burden of climate change.
The impact of climate change on infectious disease transmission: Perceptions of CDC health professionals in Shanxi Province, China
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 06-10-2014
Fear and overprotection in Australian residential aged-care facilities: The inadvertent impact of regulation on quality continence care
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-09-2016
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12218
Abstract: Most residents in residential aged-care facilities are incontinent. This study explored how continence care was provided in residential aged-care facilities, and describes a subset of data about staffs' beliefs and experiences of the quality framework and the funding model on residents' continence care. Using grounded theory methodology, 18 residential aged-care staff members were interviewed and 88 hours of field observations conducted in two facilities. Data were analysed using a combination of inductive and deductive analytic procedures. Staffs' beliefs and experiences about the requirements of the quality framework and the funding model fostered a climate of fear and risk adversity that had multiple unintended effects on residents' continence care, incentivising dependence on continence management, and equating effective continence care with effective pad use. There is a need to rethink the quality of continence care and its measurement in Australian residential aged-care facilities.
Corrigendum to “Surface water areas significantly impacted 2014 dengue outbreaks in Guangzhou, China” [Environ. Res. 150 (2016) 299–305](S0013935116302134)(10.1016/j.envres.2016.05.039)
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2017
Association between dengue fever incidence and meteorological factors in Guangzhou, China, 2005–2014
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 02-2017
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.11.009
Abstract: This study aims to (1) investigate the associations between climatic factors and dengue and (2) identify the susceptible subgroups. De-identified daily dengue cases in Guangzhou for 2005-2014 were obtained from the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Weather data were downloaded from the China Meteorological Data Sharing Service System. Distributed lag non-linear models (DLNM) were used to graphically demonstrate the three-dimensional temperature-dengue association. Generalised estimating equation models (GEE) with piecewise linear spline functions were used to quantify the temperature-dengue associations. Threshold values were estimated using a broken-stick model. Middle-aged and older people, people undertaking household duties, retirees, and those unemployed were at high risk of dengue. Reversed U-shaped non-linear associations were found between ambient temperature, relative humidity, extreme wind velocity, and dengue. The optimal maximum temperature (T
Workers' perceptions of climate change related extreme heat exposure in South Australia: A cross-sectional survey
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 11-07-2016
Heat waves and climate change: Applying the health belief model to identify predictors of risk perception and adaptive behaviours in Adelaide, Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 29-05-2013
Performance of Excess Heat Factor Severity as a Global Heatwave Health Impact Index
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 08-11-2018
Abstract: The establishment of an effective policy response to rising heatwave impacts is most effective when the history of heatwaves, their current impacts and future risks, are mapped by a common metric. In response meteorological agencies aim to develop seamless climate, forecast, and warning heat impact services, spanning all temporal and spatial scales. The ability to diagnose heatwave severity using the Excess Heat Factor (EHF) has allowed the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (the Bureau) to publicly release 7-day heatwave severity maps since 2014. National meteorological agencies in the UK and the United States are evaluating global 7-day and multi-week EHF heatwave severity probability forecasts, whilst the Bureau contributes to a Copernicus project to supply the health sector with global EHF severity heatwave projection scenarios. In an evaluation of impact skill within global forecast systems, EHF intensity and severity is reviewed as a predictor of human health impact, and extended using climate observations and human health data for sites around the globe. Heatwave intensity, determined by short and long-term temperature anomalies at each locality, is normalized to permit spatial analysis and inter-site comparison. Dimensionless heatwave event moments of peak severity and accumulated severity are shown to correlate with noteworthy events around the globe, offering new insights into current and future heatwave variability and vulnerability. The EHF severity metric permits the comparison of international heatwave events and their impacts, and is readily implemented within international heatwave early warning systems.
Daily temperature and bacillary dysentery: estimated effects, attributable risks, and future disease burden in 316 Chinese cities.
Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives
Date: 05-2020
DOI: 10.1289/EHP5779
Surface-Plasmon-Enhanced Band Emission and Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Au Nanoparticles-Decorated ZnO Nanorods
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 26-04-2015
Nonlinear and Threshold Effect of Meteorological Factors on Japanese Encephalitis Transmission in Southwestern China.
Publisher: American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene
Date: 02-12-2020
The structure, sintering process, and chemical durability of Ce0.5 Gd0.5 PO4 ceramics
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2018
The 2019 report of the MJA–Lancet Countdown on health and climate change
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 13-11-2019
DOI: 10.5694/MJA2.50405
Abstract: The MJA-Lancet Countdown on health and climate change was established in 2017 and produced its first Australian national assessment in 2018. It examined 41 indicators across five broad domains: climate change impacts, exposures and vulnerability adaptation, planning and resilience for health mitigation actions and health co-benefits economics and finance and public and political engagement. It found that, overall, Australia is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change on health, and that policy inaction in this regard threatens Australian lives. In this report we present the 2019 update. We track progress on health and climate change in Australia across the same five broad domains and many of the same indicators as in 2018. A number of new indicators are introduced this year, including one focused on wildfire exposure, and another on engagement in health and climate change in the corporate sector. Several of the previously reported indicators are not included this year, either due to their discontinuation by the parent project, the Lancet Countdown, or because insufficient new data were available for us to meaningfully provide an update to the indicator. In a year marked by an Australian federal election in which climate change featured prominently, we find mixed progress on health and climate change in this country. There has been progress in renewable energy generation, including substantial employment increases in this sector. There has also been some progress at state and local government level. However, there continues to be no engagement on health and climate change in the Australian federal Parliament, and Australia performs poorly across many of the indicators in comparison to other developed countries for ex le, it is one of the world's largest net exporters of coal and its electricity generation from low carbon sources is low. We also find significantly increasing exposure of Australians to heatwaves and, in most states and territories, continuing elevated suicide rates at higher temperatures. We conclude that Australia remains at significant risk of declines in health due to climate change, and that substantial and sustained national action is urgently required in order to prevent this.
The impact of heat waves on the elderly living in Australia: How should a heat health warning system be developed to protect them?
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1071/RJ08036
Abstract: Heat waves with extreme temperatures are increasingly being recognised as an important public health problem, together with a need to develop appropriate public health interventions. Although heat waves cannot be prevented, their harmful health consequences can be reduced by the development and implementation of early warning systems that target vulnerable regions and populations. This is particularly important for Australian society, given its ageing population structure and vulnerable characteristics of ageing people. It is crucial that a heat health warning system (HHWS) for an ageing population be based on accurate information about the location of vulnerable people, their access to communication technology, the facilities available to them and their ability to respond effectively to a HHWS. This accurate information is critical for the development and implementation of such a system. More importantly, the right stakeholders should be identified, and public’s perception and knowledge about heat waves should be evaluated.
Experts' Perceptions on China's Capacity to Manage Emerging and Re-emerging Zoonotic Diseases in an Era of Climate Change
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 23-12-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12335
Abstract: Zoonotic diseases transmitted by arthropods and rodents are a major public health concern in China. However, interventions in recent decades have helped lower the incidence of several diseases despite the country's large, frequently mobile population and socio-economic challenges. Increasing globalization, rapid urbanization and a warming climate now add to the complexity of disease control and prevention and could challenge China's capacity to respond to threats of emerging and re-emerging zoonoses. To investigate this notion, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 30 infectious disease experts in four cities in China. The case study diseases under discussion were malaria, dengue fever and haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, all of which may be influenced by changing meteorological conditions. Data were analysed using standard qualitative techniques. The study participants viewed the current disease prevention and control system favourably and were optimistic about China's capacity to manage climate-sensitive diseases in the future. Several recommendations emerged from the data including the need to improve health literacy in the population regarding the transmission of infectious diseases and raising awareness of the health impacts of climate change amongst policymakers and health professionals. Participants thought that research capacity could be strengthened and human resources issues for front-line staff should be addressed. It was considered important that authorities are well prepared in advance for outbreaks such as dengue fever in populous subtropical areas, and a prompt and coordinated response is required when outbreaks occur. Furthermore, health professionals need to remain skilled in the identification of diseases for which incidence is declining, so that re-emerging or emerging trends can be rapidly identified. Recommendations such as these may be useful in formulating adaptation plans and capacity building for the future control and prevention of climate-sensitive zoonotic diseases in China and neighbouring countries.
Impacts of hot climatic conditions on work, health, and safety in Australia: A case study of policies in practice in the construction industry
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2023
Determinants of heat-related injuries in Australian workplaces: Perceptions of health and safety professionals
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2020
Climate variability and transmission of Japanese encephalitis in eastern China.
Publisher: Mary Ann Liebert Inc
Date: 09-2003
DOI: 10.1089/153036603768395807
Abstract: A time-series analysis was conducted to study the impact of climate variability on the transmission of Japanese encephalitis in eastern China. Correlation and regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between monthly climatic variables and monthly incidence of Japanese encephalitis in Jieshou County, China over the period 1980-96. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that maximum and minimum temperatures and rainfall were all associated with the transmission of Japanese encephalitis in the county. Regression analysis suggested that monthly mean minimum temperature and monthly precipitation had a significant relationship with the transmission of Japanese encephalitis, with a 1-month lag effect. The results indicated that these climatic variables might be treated as possible predictors for regions with similar geographic, climatic, and socio-economic conditions to Jieshou County.
Time-series analysis of the risk factors for haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: comparison of statistical models
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 19-06-2006
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268806006649
Abstract: Three conventional regression models were compared using the time-series data of the occurrence of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and several key climatic and occupational variables collected in low-lying land, Anhui Province, China. Model I was a linear time series with normally distributed residuals model II was a generalized linear model with Poisson-distributed residuals and a log link and model III was a generalized additive model with the same distributional features as model II. Model I was fitted using least squares whereas models II and III were fitted using maximum likelihood. The results show that the correlations between the HFRS incidence and the independent variables measured (i.e. difference in water level, autumn crop production and density of Apodemus agrarius ) ranged from −0·40 to 0·89. The HFRS incidence was positively associated with density of A. agrarius and crop production, but was inversely associated with difference in water level. The residual analyses and the examination of the accuracy of the models indicate that model III may be the most suitable in the assessment of the relationship between the incidence of HFRS and the independent variables.
Forecast and early warning of hand, foot, and mouth disease based on meteorological factors: Evidence from a multicity study of 11 meteorological geographical divisions in mainland China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2021
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Japanese Encephalitis in China, 2002–2010
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-06-2013
Perceptions of capacity for infectious disease control and prevention to meet the challenges of dengue fever in the face of climate change: A survey among CDC staff in Guangdong Province, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2016.03.043
Abstract: Dengue fever is an important climate-sensitive mosquito-borne viral disease that poses a risk to half the world's population. The disease is a major public health issue in China where in 2014 a major outbreak occurred in Guangdong Province. This study aims to gauge health professionals' perceptions about the capacity of infectious disease control and prevention to meet the challenge of dengue fever in the face of climate change in Guangdong Province, China. A cross-sectional questionnaire survey was administered among staff in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) in Guangdong Province. Data analysis was undertaken using descriptive methods and logistic regression. In total, 260 questionnaires were completed. Most participants (80.7%) thought climate change would have a negative effect on population health, and 98.4% of participants reported dengue fever had emerged or re-emerged in China in recent years. Additionally, 74.9% of them indicated that the capability of the CDCs to detect infectious disease outbreak/epidemic at an early stage was excellent 86.3% indicated laboratories could provide diagnostic support rapidly and 83.1% believed levels of current staff would be adequate in the event of a major outbreak. Logistic regression analysis showed higher levels of CDCs were perceived to have better capacity for infectious disease control and prevention. Only 26.8% of participants thought they had a good understanding of climate change, and most (85.4%) thought they needed more information about the health impacts of climate change. Most surveyed staff suggested the following strategies to curb the public health impact of infectious diseases in relation to climate change: primary prevention measures, strengthening the monitoring of infectious diseases, the ability to actively forecast disease outbreaks by early warning systems, and more funding for public health education programs. Vigilant disease and vector surveillance, preventive practice and health promotion programs will likely be significant in addressing the threat of dengue fever in the future. Further efforts are needed to strengthen the awareness of climate change among health professionals, and to promote relevant actions to minimize the health burden of infectious diseases in a changing climate. Results will be critical for policy makers facing the current and future challenges associated with infectious disease prevention and control in China.
Secular trends in mortality rates for diabetes in Australia, 1907-1998
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2005
DOI: 10.1016/J.DIABRES.2005.03.035
Abstract: To characterise long-term mortality trends for diabetes in Australia during the 20th century, and to provide suggestions to health policy-makers. A descriptive study was conducted using existing dataset. Deaths due to diabetes, as underlying cause of death, from 1907 to 1998 were tallied, according to the ICD-9. Trends in diabetes mortality (overall population, under-19 and over 40-year-old age groups) by gender were examined. There was a slightly increasing trend in the mortality rate in males over the study period, from 14.38/100,000 in 1907 to 16.05/100,000 in 1998. Among females, it started from 19.6/100,000 in 1907, reached the peak in early 1940s and then decreased to 10.61/100,000 in 1998. There was a reversal sex ratio after late 1960s with mortality rates among males were higher than females after 1969. There was a significant difference in overall mortality between males and females over study period (p<0.001). The mortality trend among the 40 years and over group was similar to the overall population. The death rates for the under-19 group declined significantly over the study period (p 0.05). The application of insulin played an important role in the reduction of diabetes mortality among the under-19-year-old group. New medical treatment methods to reduce chronic complications and other public health interventions could have made a recent contribution to reducing death rates. It is also probable that over the study period there has been an increase in the likelihood of diabetes being correctly diagnosed.
Association between high temperature and mortality in metropolitan areas of four cities in various climatic zones in China: A time-series study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 07-08-2014
Risk factors for direct heat-related hospitalization during the 2009 Adelaide heatwave: A case crossover study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2013
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2012.10.042
Abstract: Adelaide experienced an extreme and prolonged 13 days heatwave in summer 2009. The health impacts of this heatwave included an almost 14-fold increase in direct heat-related hospital admissions. This study aims to investigate the risk factors for this extra health burden. A case crossover study was conducted in metropolitan Adelaide to compare the characteristics of patients from the heatwave (exposure) period and non-heatwave (control) periods before and after. Direct heat-related hospitalizations were identified based on the ICD-10 codes (X30, T67, and E86). Patients' data, including age, gender, indicators of health status, living conditions and socio-economic status, were collected from the South Australian Department of Health and patients' case-notes from seven major Adelaide hospitals. Multivariate logistic regression model was used to estimate the odd ratios (OR) and the 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results indicate that living at residential aged care (OR=0.41, 95% CI: 0.15-0.70) and having higher number of co-morbidities (OR=0.89, 95% CI: 0.83-0.95) reduced the risk of hospital admission for direct heat-related illnesses during the heatwave, while having renal problems (OR=1.72, 95% CI: 1.07-2.94), reporting a fall prior to hospitalization (OR=2.04, 95% CI: 1.10-3.77), receiving assistance from community (OR=2.31, 95% CI: 1.24-4.30), living alone (OR=2.41, 95% CI: 1.32-4.40), socio-economic disadvantage (OR=2.10, 95% CI: 1.09-4.04) and no private health insurance (OR=1.82, 95% CI: 1.05-3.16) increased the risk. In conclusion, the people most at risk during the 2009 heatwave in Adelaide were those who lived alone, received help from community services, with co-existing renal problems or a risk of falls, and with a lower socio-economic status. Findings will assist in refining heat-health response systems and developing intervention programmes.
Advantages and challenges of using census and multiplier methods to estimate the number of female sex workers in a Chinese city
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1080/09540120600966158
Abstract: Using census and multiplier methods to estimate the size of the population of female sex workers (FSWs) in a small city in western China, this study compared the advantages and challenges of the two methods. It was estimated that there were about 1,500 FSWs within the urban area using the census method, which was significantly lower than that estimated by the multiplier method (2,500). Each method has advantages and limitations, and could be applied to different situations. The census method is less time and resource consuming in smaller regions and has a tendency to underestimate, and therefore, the result can be viewed as a low limit. It is useful in a local setting, for ex le, when estimations are needed for planning HIV/AIDS prevention programmes in a single city. Using existing information or resources, multiplier method could be used to produce estimates for a large geographic area or at a national level.
Perceptions of workplace heat exposure and controls among occupational hygienists and relevant specialists in Australia
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 19-08-2015
Climatic, reservoir and occupational variables and the transmission of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome in China
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 02-2002
DOI: 10.1093/IJE/31.1.189
Abstract: Being a zoonosis, the transmission of haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) is influenced by climatic, reservoir and occupational factors. This paper has quantified the incidence and potential risk factors of HFRS in Yingshang County, a low-lying epidemic focus of the disease in China. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted among climatic variables, the density of mice, autumn crop production and annual incidence of HFRS during the autumn-winter seasons in the County over the period 1980-1996. Rainfall (r = -0.63, P = 0.009), the density of mice (r = 0.90, P = 0.000) and autumn crop production (r = 0.67, P = 0.01) were statistically correlated with the incidence of HFRS. Multiple regression analysis indicated that these factors are potential predictors for HFRS transmission. Rainfall, the density of mice and autumn crop production could be used as predictors of HFRS transmission in low-lying epidemic foci.
Q fever prevention: Perspectives from university animal science and veterinary students and livestock farmers
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 31-01-2022
DOI: 10.1111/AJR.12840
Abstract: To explore animal science and veterinary students’ and livestock farmers’ perceptions concerning Q fever prevention. An online survey with an open‐ended question seeking knowledge and perceptions about Q fever prevention was distributed among participants during March‐September 2019. We applied thematic analysis to identify emerging themes. Animal science and veterinary students enrolled at the University of Adelaide and members of Livestock South Australia representing cattle, sheep and goat farmers in South Australia. A total of56 animal science and veterinary students and 154 livestock farmers responded to the open‐ended question. Not applicable. Perceived challenges and opportunities for a coordinated Q fever prevention approach including human vaccination reported by the participants. Two major themes arose in each group. Students and farmers viewed Q fever vaccination as important. However, excessive cost for students was a barrier and for farmers, it was general practitioners' lack of knowledge of Q fever and access to an accredited immunisation provider. Similarly, both groups highlighted the need for education and increasing public and community awareness of Q fever. Our findings underscore that a sector‐wide approach involving community awareness programmes, education and training for general practitioners, and subsidised vaccination as well as commitment from government and industry partners may contribute to reducing the burden of Q fever among at‐risk populations.
The impact of daily temperature on renal disease incidence: An ecological study
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 27-10-2017
Occupational blood and body fluid exposure in an Australian teaching hospital
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 30-09-2006
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268805005212
Abstract: To examine work-related blood and body fluid exposure (BBFE) among health-care workers (HCWs), to explore potential risk factors and to provide policy suggestions, a 6-year retrospective study of all reported BBFE among HCWs (1998–2003) was conducted in a 430-bed teaching hospital in Australia. Results showed that BBFE reporting was consistent throughout the study period, with medical staff experiencing the highest rate of sharps injury (10·4%). Hollow-bore needles were implicated in 51·7% of all percutaneous injuries. Most incidents occurred during sharps use (40·4%) or after use but before disposal (27·1%). Nursing staff experienced 68·5% of reported mucocutaneous exposure. Many such exposures occurred in the absence of any protective attire (61·1%). This study indicated that emphasis on work practice, attire, disposal systems and education strategies, as well as the use of safety sharps should be employed to reduce work-related injuries among HCWs in Australia.
Chronic pain and its association with obesity among older adults in China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 05-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.ARCHGER.2018.01.009
Abstract: There is a paucity of epidemiological data on chronic pain and obesity among older adults. This study attempted to present the characterization of chronic pain and its association with obesity among the Chinese elderly. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken among 6524 elderly in iduals aged ≥60 years in China. Chronic pain was identified by self-reports based on the definition from the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP). Body Mass Index (BMI) was measured to assess obesity. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed to explore the association between obesity and chronic pain. The prevalence of chronic pain was 49.8%. The legs/feet (25.5%), back (23.2%), and neck/shoulder (14.6%) were the most salient locations for chronic pain. Compared with normal weight, subjects with overweight (OR = 1.234, 95%CI = 1.100-1.384) and obesity (OR = 1.715, 95%CI = 1.418-2.073) were considerably more likely to have chronic pain after adjusting for covariates (p .05). Further analyses revealed that the associations between chronic pain and obesity were restricted to the legs/feet and back. Chronic pain is common among older adults in China. Understanding the role of obesity in chronic pain is important for preventing and treating chronic pain.
Are foreign-born workers more likely to make multiple injury claims than native-born workers?
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2020
Was an epidemic of gonorrhoea among heterosexuals attending an Adelaide sexual health services associated with variations in sex work policing policy?
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 13-11-2016
DOI: 10.1136/SEXTRANS-2014-051918
Abstract: A review of historical trends in gonococcal diagnoses made at the Adelaide Sexual Health Clinic (ASHC), South Australia, identified a substantial rise in diagnoses among heterosexuals between 2006 and 2010. Sex work is illegal in South Australia, regulated in Victoria and legal in New South Wales. This and other factors that could have influenced the epidemic were explored in this analysis. Retrospective analyses of gonorrhoea diagnoses made by sexual health services between 1990 and 2012 in three Australian state capitals, Melbourne (Victoria) and Sydney (New South Wales) were undertaken. At the ASHC the proportion of gonorrhoea diagnoses was higher between 2006 and 2010 among heterosexual men (5.34% vs 0.84%, p<0.001), non-sex worker women (0.64% vs 0.28%, p<0.001) and female sex workers (FSWs) (1.75% vs 0.24%, p<0.001) compared with other years. This relationship was not seen at the Melbourne Sexual Health Clinic and corresponding data from the Sydney Sexual Health Centre showed that FSWs were less likely to have gonorrhoea between 2006 and 2010 than the other groups (p=0.746, p=0.522, p=0.024, respectively). At ASHC FSWs were significantly more likely to be diagnosed between 2006 and 2010 (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.48 to 5.27, p=0.002). Charges against sex workers peaked in 2007/2008. A substantial, self-limiting rise in diagnoses of heterosexual gonorrhoea was seen in Adelaide FSWs between 2006 and 2010. Removing barriers to condom use is vital to the prevention of HIV and STI transmission.
Heat Waves and Morbidity: Current Knowledge and Further Direction-A Comprehensive Literature Review
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 18-05-2015
Trends in cancer mortality during the 20th century in Australia.
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2007
DOI: 10.1071/AH070557
Abstract: An epidemiological study was conducted, using annual cancer mortality data over the period 1907 to 1998, to explore change in Australian cancer mortality. A 3-year moving average mortality was calculated to minimise the annual fluctuations over the study period. The results suggested that overall cancer mortality rose slightly over the past century, with a small decrease in more recent years. The male and female cancer mortality rates erged over time. Younger age groups had low and stable death rates, 35?59 years age groups demonstrated decreased rates, and older age groups had increased rates over the study period. Modifiable lifestyle factors and other possible reasons for the changes were explored.
The infrared-induced temperature distributions of solid D2 ices
Publisher: IOP Publishing
Date: 03-2013
Are humans infected by Hantaviruses in Australia?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 21-10-2005
DOI: 10.1111/J.1445-5994.2005.00954.X
Abstract: Hantavirus antibody-positive rodents have been found across Australia although, to date, there are no reports of infections in humans. This could be due to misdiagnosis clinically and/or inadequate laboratory technique/skills. There are close trading ties between Australia and Asian countries as well as our geographical neighbours where both human and rodent infections are found, so importation is a continuing threat. We consider that further sero-epidemiological surveys are warranted among rodents (especially those captured from ports in Australia), in patients from renal and respiratory wards of hospitals, and in residents and employees close to harbours using more specific and sensitive laboratory techniques than have been available in the past.
Correlates of occupational heat-induced illness costs: case study of South Australia 2000 to 2014
Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)
Date: 09-2018
Hospital healthcare costs attributable to heat and future estimations in the context of climate change in Perth, Western Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2021
Sharps injury and body fluid exposure among health care workers in an Australian tertiary hospital
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 26-03-2008
Abstract: To examine sharps injury and body fluid exposure among health care workers, a descriptive epidemiological study was conducted in a 1000-bed tertiary hospital between 2000 and 2003 using surveillance data of all reported sharps injuries and body fluid exposures. A total of 640 sharps injuries and body fluid exposures were reported from hospital and nonhospital staff, although no seroconversions to HIV, hepatitis B virus, or hepatitis C virus were observed during the study period. Nurses reported 47% of sharps injuries and 68% of body fluid exposures, medical staff reported 38% and 16%, and other nonmedical staff notified 5% and 4%, respectively, while nonhospital staff reported the rest. Hollow-bore needles accounted for 56% of sharps injuries, while 11% of the incidents were sustained during recapping and inappropriate disposal. Further research into Australian work practices, disposal systems, education strategies, and the use of safety sharps should be emphasized to implement strategies to reduce work-related injuries among health care workers.
Public health professionals’ perceptions of the capacity of China’s CDCs to address emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 28-06-2021
Abstract: China’s capacity to control and prevent emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases is critical to the nation’s population health. This study aimed to explore the capacity of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDCs) in China to deal with infectious diseases now and in the future. A survey was conducted in 2015 among 973 public health professionals at CDCs in Beijing and four provinces, to assess their capacity to deal with emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Although most professionals were confident with the current capacity of CDCs to cope with outbreaks, nearly all indicated more funding was required to meet future challenges. Responses indicated that Yunnan Province faced more challenges than Anhui, Henan and Liaoning Provinces in being completely prepared and able to deal with outbreaks. Participants aged 20–39 years were more likely than those aged 40 and over to believe strategies such as interdisciplinary and international collaborations for disease surveillance and control, would assist capacity building. The capacity of China’s CDCs to deal with infectious diseases was excellent. However, findings suggest it is imperative to increase the number of skilled CDC staff, financial support, and strengthen county level staff training and health education programs.
Heat-health behaviours of older people in two Australian states
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 12-03-2015
DOI: 10.1111/AJAG.12134
Abstract: A major heatwave occurred in Australia in early 2009 with considerable and varied health impacts in South Australia (SA) and Victoria. The aim of this study was to investigate the heat-adaptive behaviours of older people in these states. A computer-assisted telephone survey of 1000 residents of SA and Victoria aged 65 years or older was conducted at the end of summer 2010-2011. The majority of respondents reported undertaking heat-adaptive behaviours. In SA, there was a significantly higher proportion of households with air conditioning compared to Victoria, and a higher recall of heat-health messages. In both states, self-reported morbidity during heatwaves was higher in women, persons with poorer health and those with cardiovascular conditions. An increase in global temperatures in conjunction with an ageing population is a concern for public health. Our findings suggest acclimatisation to hot weather may influence behaviours and health outcomes in older people.
The risk and protective factors in the development of childhood social anxiety symptoms among Chinese children
Publisher: No publisher found
Date: 2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.PSYCHRES.2015.08.046
Abstract: The aim of this study was to explore the change and associated risk and protective factors of social anxiety symptoms among Chinese children. A 2-year longitudinal study was performed in a general primary and secondary school population in Anhui Province, China including 816 children in grades 3, 4, and 7. Children's social anxiety symptoms were assessed using the Social Anxiety Scales for Children (SASC) at three assessments. The overall prevalence of children's elevated social anxiety symptoms ranged from 15.2% to 16.4% across three assessments. Children's overall mean SASC scores were 5.6 (SD =3.7), 5.3 (SD =3.8), and 5.3 (SD =4.1) at three assessments, respectively, but the difference was not statistically significant. However, children's social anxiety symptom levels and change among different subgroups was not stable across 2-year follow-up. Multivariable logistic regression analysis indicated that age, severe family dysfunction, quality of life, positive coping, negative coping, depressive symptoms and self-esteem were predictive factors for childhood elevated social anxiety symptoms. The findings suggested that the overall social anxiety symptoms showed a relatively stable pattern over time. The identified risk and protective factors may provide scientific evidence for school, family, and health authorities to conduct necessary intervention.
Landscape biodiversity correlates with respiratory health in Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.JENVMAN.2017.10.007
Abstract: Megatrends of urbanisation and reducing contact with natural environments may pose a largely unappreciated risk to human health, particularly in children, through declining normal (healthy) immunomodulatory environmental exposures. On the other hand, building knowledge of connections between environments, bio ersity and human health may offer new integrated ways of addressing global challenges of rising population health costs and declining bio ersity. In this study we are motivated to build insight and provide context and priority for emerging research into potential protective (e.g. immunomodulatory) environmental exposures. We use respiratory health as a test case to explore whether some types and qualities of environment may be more beneficial than others, and how such exposures may compare to known respiratory health influences, via a cross-sectional ecological epidemiology study for the continent of Australia. Using Lasso penalized regression (to interpret key predictors from many candidate variables) and 10-fold cross-validation modelling (to indicate reproducibility and uncertainty), within different socio-geographic settings, our results show surrogate measures of landscape bio ersity correlate with respiratory health, and rank amongst known predictors. A range of possible drivers for this relationship are discussed. Perhaps most novel and interesting of these is the possibility of protective immunomodulatory influence from microbial ersity (suggested by the understudied 'bio ersity hypothesis') and other bioactive agents associated with bio erse environments. If beneficial influences can be demonstrated from bio erse environments on immunomodulation and human health, there may be potential to design new cost-effective nature-based health intervention programs to reduce the risk of immune-related disease at a population level. Our approach and findings are also likely to have use in the evaluation of environment and health associations elsewhere.
Climate change adaptation: no one size fits all
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2017
Climate Change and Vector-Borne Viral Diseases
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 15-10-2013
The effect of temperature on different Salmonella serotypes during warm seasons in a Mediterranean climate city, Adelaide, Australia
Publisher: Cambridge University Press (CUP)
Date: 02-11-2016
DOI: 10.1017/S0950268815002587
Abstract: Changing trends in foodborne disease are influenced by many factors, including temperature. Globally and in Australia, warmer ambient temperatures are projected to rise if climate change continues. Salmonella spp. are a temperature-sensitive pathogen and rising temperature can have a substantial effect on disease burden affecting human health. We examined the relationship between temperature and Salmonella spp. and serotype notifications in Adelaide, Australia. Time-series Poisson regression models were fit to estimate the effect of temperature during warmer months on Salmonella spp. and serotype cases notified from 1990 to 2012. Long-term trends, seasonality, autocorrelation and lagged effects were included in the statistical models. Daily Salmonella spp. counts increased by 1·3% [incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1·013, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1·008–1·019] per 1 °C rise in temperature in the warm season with greater increases observed in specific serotype and phage-type cases ranging from 3·4% (IRR 1·034, 95% CI 1·008–1·061) to 4·4% (IRR 1·044, 95% CI 1·024–1·064). We observed increased cases of S . Typhimurium PT9 and S . Typhimurium PT108 notifications above a threshold of 39 °C. This study has identified the impact of warm season temperature on different Salmonella spp. strains and confirms higher temperature has a greater effect on phage-type notifications. The findings will contribute targeted information for public health policy interventions, including food safety programmes during warmer weather.
Heat and health in Adelaide, South Australia: Assessment of heat thresholds and temperature relationships
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2011.11.038
Abstract: Climate change projections have highlighted the need for public health planning for extreme heat. In Adelaide, South Australia, hot weather is characteristic of summer and heatwaves can have a significant health burden. This study examines the heat thresholds and temperature relationships for mortality and morbidity outcomes in Adelaide. Daily maximum and minimum temperatures, daily mortality, ambulance call-outs, emergency department (ED) presentations and hospital admissions were obtained for Adelaide, between 1993 and 2009. Heat thresholds for health outcomes were estimated using an observed/expected analysis. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate the percentage increase in mortality and morbidity outcomes above the threshold temperatures, with adjustment for the effects of ozone (O(3)) and particulate matter<10 μm in mass median aerodynamic diameter (PM(10)). Effect estimates are reported as incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Heat-related mortality and morbidity become apparent above maximum and minimum temperature thresholds of 30 °C and 16 °C for mortality 26 °C and 18 °C for ambulance call-outs and 34 °C and 22 °C for heat-related ED presentations. Most health outcomes showed a positive relationship with daily temperatures over thresholds. When adjusted for air pollutants, a 10 °C increase in maximum temperature was associated with a 4.9% increase in daily ambulance call-outs (IRR 1.049 95% CI 1.027-1.072), and a 3.4% increase in mental health related hospital admissions (IRR 1.034 95% CI 1.009-1.059) for the all-age population. Heat-related ED presentations increased over 6-fold per 10 °C increase in maximum temperature. Daily temperatures were also associated with all-cause and mental health related ED presentations. Associations between temperature over thresholds and daily mortality and renal hospital admissions were not significant when adjusted for ozone and PM(10) however at extreme temperatures mortality increased significantly with increasing heat duration. Heat-attributable mortality and morbidity are associated with elevated summer temperatures in Adelaide, particularly ambulance call-outs, mental health and heat-related illness.
Weather and the transmission of bacillary dysentery in Jinan, Northern China: A time-series analysis
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2008
DOI: 10.1177/003335490812300109
Abstract: This article aims to quantify the relationship between weather variations and bacillary dysentery in Jinan, a city in northern China with a temperate climate, to reach a better understanding of the effect of weather variations on enteric infections. The weather variables and number of cases of bacillary dysentery during the period 1987–2000 has been studied on a monthly basis. The Spearman correlation between each weather variable and dysentery cases was conducted. Seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) models were used to perform the regression analyses. Maximum temperature (one-month lag), minimum temperature (one-month lag), rainfall (one-month lag), relative humidity (without lag), and air pressure (one-month lag) were all significantly correlated with the number of dysentery cases in Jinan. After controlling for the seasonality, lag time, and long-term trend, the SARIMA model suggested that a 1°C rise in maximum temperature might relate to more than 10% (95% confidence interval 10.19, 12.69) increase in the cases of bacillary dysentery in this city. Weather variations have already affected the transmission of bacillary dysentery in China. Temperatures could be used as a predictor of the number of dysentery cases in a temperate city in northern China. Public health interventions should be undertaken at this stage to adapt and mitigate the possible consequences of climate change in the future.
Global warming and Australian public health: Reasons to be concerned
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2009
DOI: 10.1071/AH090611
Abstract: Studies in global warming and climate change indicate that human populations will be deleteriously affected in the future. Studies forecast that Australia will experience increasing heat waves and droughts. Heat stress caused by frequent heat waves will have a marked effect on older Australians due to physiological and pharmacological factors. In this paper we present an overview of some of the foreseeable issues which older Australians will face from a public health perspective.
Q fever vaccination: Australian animal science and veterinary students’ One Health perspectives on Q fever prevention
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 12-11-2020
Meteorological factors and the incidence of mumps in Fujian Province, China, 2005–2013: Non-linear effects
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2018
Seasonal variation in association between temperature change and emergency department visits: A multi-site study in China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2022
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2022.113963
Abstract: There is limited evidence of effects and seasonal variation of temperature change on emergency department visits (EDVs). To investigate the association between diurnal temperature range (DTR), temperature change between neighboring days (TCN) and a comprehensive collection of cause-specific EDVs in China. We collected EDVs, weather, and air pollution data in 20 sites in China from 2014 to 2018. We applied a quasi-Poisson regression with distributed lag nonlinear model to evaluate DTR- and TCN-EDVs association. We used meta-analysis to pool site-specific estimates. We also conducted seasonal analysis and assess effects of modifiers. A 1 °C increase of DTR and TCN was associated with 0.29% [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07%, 0.51%)] and 1.44% (95% CI: 0.93%, 1.96%) increase of total EDVs, respectively. People aged 18-44 were sensitive to DTR and TCN, while the elderly population was sensitive to TCN only in spring and autumn. In seasonal analysis, effects of temperature change on total EDVs were lower in summer. TCN increased risks of genitourinary diseases in summer, respiratory diseases in winter, injury in autumn, and mental diseases in spring. DTR increased the risk of respiratory diseases in autumn. Exposure to DTR and TCN was associated with elevated risk of EDVs but with great seasonal variations. Our results provided potential time and target populations for adaptive strategies and preventive measures.
Awareness of and attitudes towards heat waves within the context of climate change among a cohort of residents in adelaide, australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 20-12-2013
Effect of temperature and its interactions with relative humidity and rainfall on malaria in a temperate city Suzhou, China
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 04-01-2021
Meteorological variables and the risk of fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2019
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2019.06.281
Abstract: The association between meteorological variables and risk of fractures has attracted increasing attentions but remain controversial. Therefore, our main aim is to clarify the association, and also to identify possible susceptible groups. Relevant literature was obtained through standard MeSH literature searching seven electronic databases. Because some studies expressed the association as the rate of incidence (IRR) of fractures associated with each 1 °C rise in temperature and 1% increase in relative humidity (RH), some expressed as IRR of fractures for the day with specific climatic variable versus control days, and also the association was expressed as correlations coefficients (COR) in some studies, separated meta-analyses were undertaken, with one based on IRR and another based on COR. A total of 24 studies were included. Results showed that each 1 °C increase was significantly associated with a 3.0% decrease in fracture risk (IRR = 0.970, 95%CI: 0.952-0.988). The day with freezing rain and snow were associated with increased risk for both the lower extremity fracture (freezing rain: IRR = 1.174, 95%CI: 1.022-1.348 snow: IRR = 1.245, 95%CI: 1.050-1.477) and the upper extremity fracture (freezing rain: IRR = 1.376, 95%CI: 1.192-1.588 snow: IRR = 1.548, 95%CI: 1.361-1.761). No significant association was detected between RH, dew, frost, fog, storm and high wind, and fracture. The COR meta-analysis showed that mean temperature (moderately), maximum temperature (moderately), rainfall (weakly) and sunlight duration (weakly) were correlated with fracture occurrence. The incidence of fractures was increased in lower temperature, the day with freezing rain, and snow. Other meteorological factors may have some effects on the incidence of fracture. The association maybe stronger for males, lower extremity fracture, and people living in Asia, subtropical zone, low-latitude, and northern hemisphere. Further studies are needed.
Spatiotemporal Transmission Dynamics of Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome in China, 2005–2012
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 20-11-2014
Molecular dynamics simulation on the physical properties of the novel designed poly-(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK)
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2018
Trends in mortality rates for infectious and parasitic diseases in Australia: 1907-1997
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 04-2003
DOI: 10.1046/J.1445-5994.2003.00354.X
Abstract: To characterize long-term mortality trends for infectious and parasitic diseases in Australia during the twentieth century, explore influencing factors and provide suggestions to health policy-makers. A descriptive study was conducted. Deaths due to communicable diseases from 1907 to 1997 were tallied, according to the International Classification of Diseases version 9 (ICD-9). Trends in infectious disease mortality in overall population and in the 0-4 years age group were examined and standardized by sex. Death rates were also studied for: (i) diarrhoea/enteritis, (ii) pneumonia and all respiratory diseases and (iii) tuberculosis. There has been a substantial decline in -mortality from communicable diseases over the study period. The death rate dropped from 258.9 per 100,000 population in 1907 to 7.2 per 100,000 population in 1997. Six phases of the decline were observed. A combination of improved living conditions and access to readily available treatments over the twentieth century played an important role in the reduction of infectious disease mortality in Australia.
Infectious diseases, urbanization and climate change: Challenges in future China
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 07-09-2015
Cause-specific mortality attributable to cold and hot ambient temperatures in Hong Kong: a time-series study, 2006–2016
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2020
The prevalence of HCV antibody in South Australian prisoners
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2006
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2005.10.014
Abstract: The study was aimed at identifying the hepatitis C virus (HCV)-antibody status of prisoners incarcerated in South Australia in order to develop an HCV prevalence estimate for the whole prison system. The health records of persons incarcerated within eight prisons (accommodating approximately 93% of the jurisdiction's adult incarcerated population) were audited for evidence of HCV infection, age, sex, Indigenous status (Australian Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander) and date of entry to prison. These data were analysed using both univariate and multivariate techniques. Among 1347 prisoners (1254 males and 93 females), 30.2% were HCV-antibody positive. After excluding those with no history of testing, HCV-antibody prevalence rose to 41.3% (males 39.8%, females 66.1%). HCV-antibody positivity was significantly associated with age, sex and Indigenous status in both univariate and multivariate analyses. Consistent with the literature, the prevalence of HCV infection in the SA prison system appears to be extremely high. This study suggests that HCV prevention efforts in prison settings should be considered as an important priority.
Extreme heat and cultural and linguistic minorities in Australia: Perceptions of stakeholders
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 03-06-2014
Climate change and population health research in China: Knowledge gaps and further directions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2020
The effects of temperature on human mortality in a Chinese city: burden of disease calculation, attributable risk exploration, and vulnerability identification
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 25-06-2019
DOI: 10.1007/S00484-019-01746-6
Abstract: Few studies have examined the attributable fraction (AF) of temperature to mortality and Years of Life Lost (YLL), especially in developing countries. This study aims to explore the short-term effect of the cold and hot temperatures on the cause-specific YLL and mortality, discover the attributable contributions from the temperature variations, and identify the vulnerable populations in Weifang, China. Daily registered death information and meteorological data over the period 2010-2016 were obtained in Weifang, a northern Chinese city. Generalized additive Poisson and Gaussian regression models were used to assess the impacts of temperatures on both mortality and YLL, explore the AF of the temperature variations on mortality, after adjusting for other covariates. Both hot and cold temperatures have had significant negative impacts on cause-specific mortality counts and YLL, with heat presented an acute and short effect and the cold temperatures had delayed effects and lasted for several days. In terms of the attributable fraction calculations, the contributions from cold effects was higher than that of hot effects on non-accidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory deaths (YLL 10.88 vs. 1.23%, 19.58 vs. 1.71%, and 14.47 vs. 3.05% mortality 13.97 vs. 1.65%, 19.20 vs. 1.59%, and 14.89 vs. 3.09%), respectively. The elderly and women and people with low education level were the most vulnerable. The findings will provide important scientific evidences and policy implications for developing adaptation strategies to reduce the adverse effect of cold and hot exposure in Weifang, in terms of resource allocation, healthcare workforce capacity building, and community health education, especially for the vulnerable groups.
The Effect of Meteorological Variables on the Transmission of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease in Four Major Cities of Shanxi Province, China: A Time Series Data Analysis (2009-2013)
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 05-03-2015
Climate variability and Ross River virus transmission
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 08-2002
Abstract: (1) To examine the feasibility to link climate data with monthly incidence of Ross River virus (RRv). (2) To assess the impact of climate variability on the RRv transmission. An ecological time series analysis was performed on the data collected between 1985 to 1996 in Queensland, Australia. Information on the notified RRv cases was obtained from the Queensland Department of Health. Climate and population data were supplied by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and the Australian Bureau of Statistics, respectively. Spearman's rank correlation analyses were performed to examine the relation between climate variability and the monthly incidence of notified RRv infections. The autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was used to perform a time series analysis. As maximum and minimum temperatures were highly correlated with each other (r(s)=0.75), two separate models were developed. For the eight major cities in Queensland, the climate-RRv correlation coefficients were in the range of 0.12 to 0.52 for maximum and minimum temperatures, -0.10 to 0.46 for rainfall, and 0.11 to 0.52 for relative humidity and high tide. For the whole State, rainfall (partial regression coefficient: 0.017 (95% confidence intervals 0.009 to 0.025) in Model I and 0.018 (0.010 to 0.026) in Model II), and high tidal level (0.030 (0.006 to 0.054) in Model I and 0.029 (0.005 to 0.053) in Model II) seemed to have played significant parts in the transmission of RRv in Queensland. Maximum temperature was also marginally significantly associated with the incidence of RRv infection. Rainfall, temperature, and tidal levels may be important environmental determinants in the transmission cycles of RRv disease.
Heatwaves differentially affect risk of Salmonella serotypes
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 09-2016
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2016.04.034
Abstract: Given increasing frequency of heatwaves and growing public health concerns associated with foodborne disease, we examined the relationship between heatwaves and salmonellosis in Adelaide, Australia. Poisson regression analysis with Generalised Estimating Equations was used to estimate the effect of heatwaves and the impact of intensity, duration and timing on salmonellosis and specific serotypes notified from 1990 to 2012. Distributed lag non-linear models were applied to assess the non-linear and delayed effects of temperature during heatwaves on Salmonella cases. Salmonella typhimurium PT135 notifications were sensitive to the effects of heatwaves with a twofold (IRR 2.08, 95% CI 1.14-3.79) increase in cases relative to non-heatwave days. Heatwave intensity had a significant effect on daily counts of overall salmonellosis with a 34% increase in risk of infection (IRR 1.34, 95% CI 1.01-1.78) at >41 °C. The effects of temperature during heatwaves on Salmonella cases and serotypes were found at lags of up to 14 days. This study confirms heatwaves have a significant effect on Salmonella cases, and for the first time, identifies its impact on specific serotypes and phage types. These findings will contribute to the understanding of the impact of heatwaves on salmonellosis and provide insights that could mitigate their impact.
Regional morbidity and mortality during heatwaves in South Australia
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 16-08-2018
DOI: 10.1007/S00484-018-1593-4
Abstract: Heatwaves can be a common occurrence in Australia, and the public health impacts can be severe. Heat warnings and interventions are being adopted widely to reduce the preventable health impacts. This study examines the effects of heatwaves on morbidity and mortality in different climatic regions in the state of South Australia, to inform the targeting of heat warnings according to regional needs. Heatwaves were defined using the excess heat factor (EHF), an index based on mean daily temperature indices that quantifies heatwave severity relative to the local climate. In all regions, there were increases in morbidity (daily rates of ambulance call-outs and heat-related emergency presentations and hospital admissions) on heatwave days compared to non-heatwave days, which increased with heatwave severity. This study demonstrates that a consistent measure for heatwave severity, based on EHF, can be used to underpin public health warnings for climatically erse areas.
Climate variability and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome transmission in northeastern China
Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives
Date: 07-2010
DOI: 10.1289/EHP.0901504
The MJA–Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: Australian policy inaction threatens lives
Publisher: AMPCo
Date: 29-11-2018
DOI: 10.5694/MJA18.00789
Abstract: Climate plays an important role in human health and it is well established that climate change can have very significant impacts in this regard. In partnership with The Lancet and the MJA, we present the inaugural Australian Countdown assessment of progress on climate change and health. This comprehensive assessment examines 41 indicators across five broad sections: climate change impacts, exposures and vulnerability adaptation, planning and resilience for health mitigation actions and health co-benefits economics and finance and public and political engagement. These indicators and the methods used for each are largely consistent with those of the Lancet Countdown global assessment published in October 2017, but with an Australian focus. Significant developments include the addition of a new indicator on mental health. Overall, we find that Australia is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change on health, and that policy inaction in this regard threatens Australian lives. In a number of respects, Australia has gone backwards and now lags behind other high income countries such as Germany and the United Kingdom. Ex les include the persistence of a very high carbon-intensive energy system in Australia, and its slow transition to renewables and low carbon electricity generation. However, we also find some ex les of good progress, such as heatwave response planning. Given the overall poor state of progress on climate change and health in Australia, this country now has an enormous opportunity to take action and protect human health and lives. Australia has the technical knowhow and intellect to do this, and our annual updates of this assessment will track Australia's engagement with and progress on this vitally important issue.
High temperatures and emergency department visits in 18 sites with different climatic characteristics in China: Risk assessment and attributable fraction identification.
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2020.105486
Abstract: Health impacts of high temperatures on hospital emergency department visits (EDVs) have been less reported, especially from developing countries. To investigate high temperature-EDVs relationship in various regions with different climatic characteristics, to explore the regional differences, to identify vulnerable populations, and to provide scientific evidence for climate change adaptation strategies in China. Daily data on weather, air pollution and EDVs were collected from 18 sites in China from June to August during 2014-2017. A quasi-Poisson generalized additive regression model was applied to examine the high temperature-EDVs relationship in each site. Site-specific risks of EDVs were pooled using a random effect meta-analysis model. Stratified analyses were performed by gender, age-groups, cause-specific EDVs and regions. Attributable fractions of EDVs due to high temperatures were calculated in different regions. 1 °C increase in daily mean temperature was associated with 1.07% (95% CI, 0.46-1.67%) increase in EDVs across all study regions. The negative health effects from high temperatures were worse for the people living in southern China, in subtropical monsoon climate zone or in counties, with percentage change of 1.96% (95% CI, 0.92-3.02%), 1.35% (95% CI, 0.95-1.76%) and 1.41% (95% CI, 0.48-2.34%), respectively. People under 18 were more vulnerable to high temperatures. Exposure to high temperatures increased EDVs risks from endocrine, respiratory, and digestive diseases and injury. The attributable fraction due to high temperatures was 8.64% for overall EDVs, 11.70% for the people living in southern China, 10.80% for people living in subtropical monsoon climate zone and 12.65% for the county population. Exposure to high temperatures resulted in extra burden to China's already overloaded hospital emergency departments. More resources are needed to meet increasing demands and effective preventative measurements are warranted to tackle such a challenge. Further studies should pay more attention to both heat and cold-related EDVs risks and socioeconomic cost for better climate change adaptation.
The effect of heat waves on mental health in a temperate Australian City
Publisher: Environmental Health Perspectives
Date: 10-2008
DOI: 10.1289/EHP.11339
The efficacy of azithromycin and doxycycline treatment for rectal chlamydial infection: a retrospective cohort study in South Australia.
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 03-2018
DOI: 10.1111/IMJ.13624
Abstract: There are ongoing concerns about treatment failure with azithromycin for the treatment of rectal chlamydia. To investigate treatment efficacy of two treatments for rectal chlamydial infection. We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients diagnosed with rectal chlamydial infection between 2009 and 2015 in Adelaide, Australia. Patients were treated with either azithromycin (1 g single dose) or doxycycline (100 mg twice a day for 10 days) and returned for repeat testing 14-180 days after treatment commenced. Log-binomial models were used to estimate the relative risk (RR) of recurrent rectal chlamydia associated with the treatment with azithromycin versus doxycycline. In men, rectal chlamydia prevalence was 6.7%, and in women, it was 8.1%. Of the 526 patients diagnosed with rectal chlamydial infections, 419 (79.7%), 93 (17.7%) and 14 (2.6%) patients were treated with doxycycline, azithromycin or other medication respectively. Of these patients, 173 (41.3%) of 419 doxycycline-treated patients and 31 (33.3%) of 93 azithromycin-treated patients were retested between 14 and 180 days after treatment commenced (P = 0.16). Among these patients, the repeat rectal chlamydia test was less commonly positive in those treated with doxycycline (5.8% 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.03-0.10) compared with those treated with azithromycin (19.4% 95% CI 0.09-0.36) and (P = 0.01). In the multivariate analysis, azithromycin-treated patients had a significantly higher risk of a positive test in the 14 and 180 days after treatment commenced (adjusted relative risk (aRR) 2.96, 95% CI 1.16-7.57). The findings suggest that doxycycline may be more effective than azithromycin in treating rectal chlamydial infections.
Risk factors of direct heat-related hospital admissions during the 2009 heatwave in Adelaide, Australia: A matched case-control study
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 06-2016
Incidence Trends of Lip, Oral Cavity, and Pharyngeal Cancers: Global Burden of Disease 1990–2017
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 24-12-2019
Abstract: The worldwide incidence trends of the lip, oral cavity, and pharyngeal cancers (LOCPs) need to be updated. This study aims to examine the temporal incidence trends of LOCPs from 1990 to 2017, using the latest Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study data to explore sex, age, and regional differences. GBD incidence data for LOCPs were driven by population cancer registries and were estimated from mortality data. Age-standardized incidence rates (ASIRs) were directly extracted from the 2017 GBD database to calculate the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) over the study period. Incidence trends are mapped and compared separately by sex (females vs. males), age groups (15–49, 50–69, and 70+ y), regions (21 geographical and 5 sociodemographic regions), and countries. Among 678,900 incident cases of LOCPs notified in 2017, more than half were lip and oral cavity cancers. From 1990 to 2017, the estimated global incidence for nasopharyngeal cancers decreased dramatically (EAPC = −1.52 95% confidence interval [CI], –1.70 to −1.34), while the incidence for lip and oral cavity cancers (EAPC = 0.26 95% CI, 0.16–0.37) and other pharyngeal cancers (EAPC = 0.62 95% CI, 0.54–0.71) increased. Higher ASIRs were observed among males than females across all age groups. However, females had larger EAPC variation when compared to males. Population groups aged 15 to 49 y presented the lowest ASIRs, with larger values of EAPC than those aged 50 to 69 and 70+ y. While high-income countries had higher ASIRs with little EAPC variation, ASIRs varied across low/middle-income regions with larger EAPC variations. South Asia and East Asia had the highest ASIRs and EAPC for lip and oral cavity cancers, respectively. In conclusion, the global incidence of LOCPs has increased among females, those aged 15 to 49 y, and people from low/middle-income countries over the study period, excepting nasopharyngeal cancers, which had a decreasing worldwide trend.
Climatic variables and transmission of malaria: A 12-year data analysis in Shuchen County, China
Publisher: SAGE Publications
Date: 2003
Climate variations and Salmonella infection in Australian subtropical and tropical regions
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2010
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2009.10.068
Abstract: This study aims to quantify the relationship between climate variations and cases of Salmonella infection in subtropical and tropical areas in Australia. Brisbane in a subtropical area and Townsville in a tropical area of Queensland were selected as the study regions. Local meteorological variables and notified cases of Salmonella infection from January 1990 to July 2005 were provided by local authorities. Spearman correlation and time-series adjusted Poisson regression were applied controlling for autoregression, lag effects, seasonal variation and long-term trend. Natural cubic spline and Hockey Stick model were used to estimate a potential threshold temperature. Spearman correlation indicated that maximum and minimum temperatures, relative humidity at 9 am and 3 pm, and rainfall were all positively correlated with the number of cases in both Brisbane and Townsville, with the lag values of the effects up to 2 weeks in Brisbane and 2 months in Townsville. Only temperature and rainfall were significantly included in the regression models in both regions. The models suggested that a potential 1 degrees C rise in maximum or minimum temperature may cause a very similar increase in the number of cases in the two regions. No threshold for the effect of maximum or minimum temperature on Salmonella infection was detected in either region. The association between climate variations and Salmonella infection could be very similar in subtropical and tropical regions in Australia. Temperature and rainfall may be used as key meteorological predictors for the number of cases in both regions.
Assessing the effect of climate factors on childhood diarrhoea burden in Kathmandu, Nepal
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 2020
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJHEH.2019.09.002
Abstract: This study was undertaken to assess the effect of climate variability on diarrhoeal disease burden among children under 5 years of age living in Kathmandu, Nepal. The researchers sought to predict future risk of childhood diarrhoea under different climate change scenarios to advance the evidence base available to public health decision-makers, and the Nepalese infection control ision, in planning for climate impacts. A time series study was conducted using the monthly case count of diarrhoeal disease (2003-2013) among children under 5 years of age living in Kathmandu, Nepal. A quasi Poisson generalised linear equation with distributed lag linear model was fitted to estimate the lagged effect of monthly maximum temperature and rainfall on childhood diarrhoea. The environmental framework of comparative risk assessment was used to assess the environmental burden of diarrhoea within this population. A total of 219,774 cases of diarrhoeal disease were recorded during the study period with a median value of 1286 cases per month. The results of a regression model revealed that the monthly count of diarrhoea cases increased by 8.1% (RR: 1.081 95% CI: 1.02-1.14) per 1 °C increase in maximum temperature above the monthly average recorded within that month. Similarly, rainfall was found to have significant effect on the monthly diarrhoea count, with a 0.9% (RR 1.009 95% CI: 1.004-1.015) increase in cases for every 10 mm increase in rainfall above the monthly cumulative value recorded within that month. It was estimated that 7.5% (95% CI: 2.2%-12.5%) of the current burden of diarrhoea among children under 5 years of age could be attributed to climatic factors (maximum temperature), and projected that 1357 (UI: 410-2274) additional cases of childhood diarrhoea could be climate attributable by the year 2050 under low-risk scenario (0.9 °C increase in maximum temperature). It is estimated that there exists a significant association (p < 0.05) between childhood diarrhoea and an increase in maximum temperature and rainfall in Kathmandu, Nepal. The findings of this study may inform the conceptualization and design of early warning systems for the prediction and control of childhood diarrhoea, based upon the observed pattern of climate change in Kathmandu.
Changes in HIV prevalence and sexual behavior among men who have sex with men in a northern Chinese city: 2002-2006
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 11-2007
DOI: 10.1016/J.JINF.2007.06.015
Abstract: To examine HIV prevalence and sexual behavior changes among MSM in Harbin. Three community-based cross-sectional surveys among MSM were conducted based on the same protocol and methodology in 2002, 2004 and 2006 in Harbin, China. Men who were eligible were interviewed with a standard questionnaire. Urine s les were collected to screen their HIV status. Among the MSM in Harbin, an increased trend was observed towards more self-identifying as homosexual (from 58% to 80%) and more living with a male partner (from 12% to 41%) over the study period. Although there was a trend towards a reduction in the rate of never using a condom and an increase in the rate of always using condoms during anal sex in the past six months, the prevalence of unprotected anal intercourse (UAI) was still at a high level (from 90% in 2002 to 72% in 2006). The HIV prevalence in 2006 (2.2%, 15/674) was higher than that in other study years, but no statistically significant change was detected. Although an increase in condom use and a decline in drug use, STD infection and commercial sex have been monitored under current HIV prevention strategies, the MSM in Harbin is still highly vulnerable to HIV transmission given a high level of UAI and an increasing number of male sexual partners over the study period.
Ambient soil cation exchange capacity inversely associates with infectious and parasitic disease risk in regional Australia
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2018.01.077
Abstract: Human contact with soil may be important for building and maintaining normal healthy immune defence mechanisms, however this idea remains untested at the population-level. In this continent-wide, cross-sectional study we examine the possible public health benefit of ambient exposures to soil of high cation exchange capacity (CEC), a surrogate for potential immunomodulatory soil microbial ersity. We compare distributions of normalized mean 2011/12-2012/13 age-standardized public hospital admission rates (cumulative incidence) for infectious and parasitic diseases across regional Australia (representing an average of 29,516 patients/year in 228 local government areas), within tertiles of socioeconomic status and soil exposure. To test the significance of soil CEC, we use probabilistic in idual-level environmental exposure data (with or without soil), and group-level variables, in robust non-parametric multilevel modelling to predict disease rates in unseen groups. Our results show that in socioeconomically-deprived areas with high CEC soils, rates of infectious and parasitic disease are significantly lower than areas with low CEC soils. Also, health inequality (relative risk) due to socioeconomic status is significantly lower in areas with high CEC soils compared to low CEC soils (Δ relative risk = 0.47 95% CI: 0.13, 0.82). Including soil exposure when modelling rates of infectious and parasitic disease significantly improves prediction performance, explaining an additional 7.5% (Δ r
Seasonal rainfall variability, the incidence of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, and prediction of the disease in low-lying areas of China
Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)
Date: 08-1998
DOI: 10.1093/OXFORDJOURNALS.AJE.A009636
Abstract: To investigate determinants of hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) in low-lying areas of China, the authors studied Chuigang and Wanggang communities in Anhui Province. These adjacent farming communities have a population of about 100,000. Data were collected from the two communities in 1961-1977 and from Yingshang County in 1983-1995 information covered the incidence of HFRS, amount of precipitation, differences in the water level of the Huai River, density of Apodemus agrarius, autumn crop production, and areas of inundated farmland. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were used to estimate the relation between seasonal rainfall, density of mice, occupational factors, and occurrence of the disease. Associations were observed between the incidence of HFRS and the amount of precipitation, the water level of the Huai River, and the areas of inundated farmland in Chuigang community. The smaller the water-level difference, the less farmland was inundated and the higher the incidence of HFRS. In Wanggang community, the density of A. agrarius (r1=0.63, p=0.02), the water-level difference in the Huai River (r2=-0.81, p=0.007), and crop production (r3=0.96, p=0.005) were correlated with the incidence of HFRS. The regression analyses based on Wanggang community suggested that these indexes could be used as predictive variables, and the results from the model were well calibrated with the actual incidence of HFRS in that community (R2=0.88, p < 0.01) and Yingshang County (R2=0.91, p < 0.01).
Evaluation of a heat warning system in Adelaide, South Australia, using case-series analysis
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 07-2016
Engaging stakeholders in an adaptation process: governance and institutional arrangements in heat-health policy development in Adelaide, Australia
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 18-07-2012
Local actions to health risks of heatwaves and dengue fever under climate change: Strategies and barriers among primary healthcare professionals in southern China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2020
Trends in cancer mortality rates among migrants in Australia: 1981–2007
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 04-2012
DOI: 10.1016/J.CANEP.2011.10.011
Abstract: Previous studies have shown that migrants have lower cancer mortality rates compared to the Australian-born population, particularly for colorectal and breast cancers, which are associated with an affluent lifestyle. This study seeks to update knowledge in this field by examining mortality from colorectal, stomach, lung, melanoma, breast and bladder cancers, as well as all cancers combined between 1981 and 2007. Data were obtained from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Average annual age and sex-standardised mortality rates were calculated for each region of birth, period of death registration and cancer site. Generally, mortality rates declined over the study period for most conditions for the majority of migrant groups. Notable exceptions included migrants from South Eastern Europe and Eastern Europe who experienced a significant increase in mortality due to all cancers combined and Australian-born in iduals who recorded a significant increase in mortality due to melanoma of the skin. Migrants generally had more favourable cancer mortality outcomes, particularly for colorectal cancer and melanoma. Migrants from Southern Europe, South Eastern Europe, Chinese Asia and Southern Asia had the greatest advantage. However, migrants displayed higher rates of stomach, lung and bladder cancers than the Australian-born population. The migrant advantage can in part be explained by the protective effects of diet, lifestyle and reproductive behaviours. Possible explanations for why some migrants display greater mortality from stomach and bladder cancer include the consumption of abrasive, salted and preserved foods and higher rates of smoking. Greater emphasis should be placed on targeting at-risk migrant groups through screening and education programs at migrant resource centres and community groups. The study calls for further research to explain the observed trends, which has the potential to uncover important risk and protective factors.
Impact of two recent extreme heat episodes on morbidity and mortality in Adelaide, South Australia: A case-series analysis
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 19-05-2011
Perceptions of malaria control and prevention in an era of climate change: a cross-sectional survey among CDC staff in China
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 31-03-2017
Structures and energetics of point defects with charge states in zircon: A first-principles study
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2018
China's capacity of hospitals to deal with infectious diseases in the context of climate change
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
Heat health messages: A randomized controlled trial of a preventative messages tool in the older population of south Australia
Publisher: MDPI AG
Date: 31-08-2017
The impact of climate change on kidney health
Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Date: 15-10-2020
The challenges of implementing an integrated One Health surveillance system in Australia
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 10-12-2017
DOI: 10.1111/ZPH.12433
Predicting Unprecedented Dengue Outbreak Using Imported Cases and Climatic Factors in Guangzhou, 2014
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 28-05-2015
The effects of summer temperature and heat waves on heat-related illness in a coastal city of China, 2011-2013
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 07-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2014.04.002
Abstract: Devastating health effects from recent heat waves in China have highlighted the importance of understanding health consequences from extreme heat stress. Despite the increasing mortality from extreme heat, very limited studies have quantified the effects of summer extreme temperature on heat-related illnesses in China. The associations between extreme heat and daily heat-related illnesses that occurred in the summers of 2011-2013 in Ningbo, China, have been examined, using a distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) based on 3862 cases. The excess morbidities of heat-related illness during each heat wave have been calculated separately and the cumulative heat wave effects on age-, sex-, and cause-specific illnesses in each year along lags have been estimated as well. After controlling the effect of relative humidity, it is found that maximum temperature, rather than heat index, was a better predictor of heat-related illnesses in summers. A positive association between maximum temperatures and occurrence of heat-related diseases was apparent, especially at short lag effects. Six heat waves during the period of 2011-2013 were identified and all associated with excess heat-related illnesses. Relative to the average values for the corresponding periods in 2011 and 2012, a total estimated 679 extra heat-related illnesses occurred during three heat waves in 2013. The significant prolonged heat wave effects on total heat-related illnesses during heat waves in three study years have also been identified. The strongest cumulative effect of heat waves was on severe heat diseases in 2013, with a 10-fold increased risk. More males than females, in iduals with more severe forms of illness, were more affected by the heat. However, all age groups were vulnerable. Recent heat waves had a substantial and delayed effect on heat illnesses in Ningbo. Relevant active well-organized public health initiatives should be implemented to reduce the adverse effects of heat extremes on the illnesses.
Association between apolipoprotein e gene polymorphism and depression
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 08-2015
DOI: 10.1016/J.JOCN.2015.02.012
Abstract: We performed an updated meta-analysis to obtain a more precise estimation of the relationship between apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene polymorphism and susceptibility to depression, as previous reports have been inconsistent. Twenty studies with 2286 depression patients and 3845 controls were included. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated to assess the association between ApoE gene polymorphism and depression using a random effects model. Results showed a significant association between ApoE gene polymorphism and susceptibility to depression in the overall population (ε2/ε3 genotype versus ε3/ε3: OR 0.76, 95% CI 0.59-0.99). Subgroup analyses indicated an association in the Caucasian population (ε2 allele versus ε3: OR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58-0.97) as well as in late-life depression (LLD) patients (ε3/ε4 genotype versus ε3/ε3: OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.07-1.68, and ε4 allele versus ε3: OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.06-1.59). We concluded that the ε2/ε3 genotype likely provided a protective effect against depression in the overall population and the ε2 allele acted as a protective factor for depression in the Caucasian population while the ε4 allele and ε3/ε4 genotype were associated with an increased risk of depression in the LLD subjects.
Perception, attitude and behavior in relation to climate change: A survey among CDC health professionals in Shanxi province, China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 10-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVRES.2014.08.006
Abstract: A better understanding of public perceptions, attitude and behavior in relation to climate change will provide an important foundation for government׳s policy-making, service provider׳s guideline development and the engagement of local communities. The purpose of this study was to assess the perception towards climate change, behavior change, mitigation and adaptation measures issued by the central government among the health professionals in the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in China. In 2013, a cross-sectional questionnaire survey was undertaken among 314 CDC health professionals in various levels of CDC in Shanxi Province, China. Descriptive analyses were performed. More than two thirds of the respondents believed that climate change has happened at both global and local levels, and climate change would lead to adverse impacts to human beings. Most respondents (74.8%) indicated the emission of greenhouse gases was the cause of climate change, however there was a lack of knowledge about greenhouse gases and their sources. Media was the main source from which respondents obtained the information about climate change. A majority of respondents showed that they were willing to change behavior, but their actions were limited. In terms of mitigation and adaptation measures issued by the Chinese Government, respondents׳ perception showed inconsistency between strategies and relevant actions. Moreover, although the majority of respondents believed some strategies and measures were extremely important to address climate change, they were still concerned about economic development, energy security, and local environmental protection. There are gaps between perceptions and actions towards climate change among these health professionals. Further efforts need to be made to raise the awareness of climate change among health professionals, and to promote relevant actions to address climate change in the context of the proposed policies with local sustainable development.
Influence of living arrangements on health services utilisation in Australia
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2012
DOI: 10.1071/AH10920
Abstract: Background. The number of people living alone is increasing markedly. Others live as couples only, couples with child(ren) and single adult with child(ren). Health service utilisation could differ for people in different living arrangements as a result of varying levels of risk factors, health status, access to informal care and decision-making for accessing care. Objective. To identify the association between living arrangements and health service use. Methods. The Australian Bureau of Statistics’ National Health Survey 2001 data for people 18–65 years old were analysed for household composition and service use. Results. People in various household types differ in terms of their overall use of health services and their use of services by general practitioners. Sex, rurality, socioeconomic status and status of heart condition significantly influenced the use of health services. Conclusion. There are implications for health services provision and planning within the context of rapid changes in living arrangements. Additional research is required to explore the reasons to such differences, level of access to informal care, healthcare decision-making processes and consequences of under- or over-utilisation of services. What is known about the topic? Health service use is influenced by the disease burden and pattern, demography, economic factors, access to social support, quality of care and satisfaction with standards of care. These factors may influence access to and use of care. What does this paper add? This research points to the potential role of living arrangements on health services use. Many people now live alone and may not have access to informal care, and access to health information and education. People in different living arrangements appear to have different health service use. What are the implications for practitioners? Practitioners, in both primary care and acute care sectors, need to consider that patients, including younger people, may not have access to informal care, may present with delays and may not have the needed adequate support during convalescence. Health education needs to consider that people in different living arrangements may be exposed to different levels of risk factors in terms of their healthcare use.
Building community resilience to heatwaves in South Australia
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 02-01-2015
Internet use and risk behaviours: An online survey of visitors to three gay websites in China
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 12-2007
Risk communication for new and emerging communities: The contingent role of social capital
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 06-2018
Hepatitis C virus infection in South Australian prisoners: seroprevalence, seroconversion, and risk factors
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 03-2009
DOI: 10.1016/J.IJID.2008.06.011
Abstract: To determine entry antibody seroprevalence and seroconversion to hepatitis C virus (HCV) and associated risk factors in newly incarcerated prisoners. Males and females entering South Australian prisons completed risk factor surveys and were offered HCV-antibody testing. Participants completed additional surveys and, if HCV-negative at last test, underwent further antibody tests at 3-monthly intervals for up to 15 months. Data were analyzed using univariate and multivariate techniques. HCV seroprevalence among 662 prison entrants was estimated at 42%. Previous injecting history was highly prevalent at entry (64%) and both community and prison injecting independently predicted entry HCV status. Tattooing was not an important risk factor. While community exposure could not be ruled out, three seroconversions were noted in 148 initially HCV-seronegative in iduals occurring in a median 121 days--4.6 per 100 person-years. Prison injecting was infrequently reported, but HCV-seropositive participants were significantly more likely to commence IDU in prison than seronegative participants (p=0.035). Entry HCV seroprevalence in South Australian prisoners is extremely high and may have contributed to a 'ceiling effect', minimizing the observable seroconversion rate. Greater frequency of injecting among those already infected with HCV represents a significant threat to other prisoners and prison staff.
The Epidemiological Characteristics and Dynamic Transmission of Dengue in China, 2013
Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)
Date: 07-11-2016
Are workers at risk of occupational injuries due to heat exposure? A comprehensive literature review
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2018
The role of environmental factors in the spatial distribution of Japanese encephalitis in mainland China
Publisher: Elsevier BV
Date: 12-2014
DOI: 10.1016/J.ENVINT.2014.07.004
Abstract: Japanese encephalitis (JE) is the most common cause of viral encephalitis and an important public health concern in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly in China where 50% of global cases are notified. To explore the association between environmental factors and human JE cases and identify the high risk areas for JE transmission in China, we used annual notified data on JE cases at the center of administrative township and environmental variables with a pixel resolution of 1 km×1 km from 2005 to 2011 to construct models using ecological niche modeling (ENM) approaches based on maximum entropy. These models were then validated by overlaying reported human JE case localities from 2006 to 2012 onto each prediction map. ENMs had good discriminatory ability with the area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver operating curve (ROC) of 0.82-0.91, and low extrinsic omission rate of 5.44-7.42%. Resulting maps showed JE being presented extensively throughout southwestern and central China, with local spatial variations in probability influenced by minimum temperatures, human population density, mean temperatures, and elevation, with contribution of 17.94%-38.37%, 15.47%-21.82%, 3.86%-21.22%, and 12.05%-16.02%, respectively. Approximately 60% of JE cases occurred in predicted high risk areas, which covered less than 6% of areas in mainland China. Our findings will help inform optimal geographical allocation of the limited resources available for JE prevention and control in China, find hidden high-risk areas, and increase the effectiveness of public health interventions against JE transmission.
Heat-health warnings in regional Australia: examining public perceptions and responses
Publisher: Informa UK Limited
Date: 30-10-2018
Weather: Driving force behind the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome in China?
Publisher: Wiley
Date: 16-04-2007
Extreme heat and occupational heat illnesses in South Australia, 2001-2010
Publisher: BMJ
Date: 16-06-2015
DOI: 10.1136/OEMED-2014-102706
Abstract: This study aims to examine the epidemiological characteristics of occupational heat illnesses in South Australia, to quantify the association between ambient temperature and occupational heat illnesses, and to investigate the impact of heatwaves on occupational heat illnesses. Workers' compensation claims data and weather data were obtained from SafeWork South Australia and the Bureau of Meteorology, respectively, for 2001-2010. Time series analysis with generalised estimation equation models and linear spline functions was used to quantify the temperature-heat illness claims association. A case-crossover design was applied to investigate the impact of heatwaves on occupational heat illnesses. There were 306 heat illness claims during the study period, with an incidence rate of 4.5 per 100,000 employees. The overall risk of occupational heat illness was positively associated with maximum temperature (Tmax), especially when Tmax was over the threshold of 35.5 °C. One degree increase of Tmax was associated with a 12.7% (incidence rate ratio 1.127, 95% CI 1.067 to 1.190) increase of occupational heat illness claims. During heatwave periods, the risk of occupational heat illness was about 4-7 times higher than that of non-heatwave periods. There is a need to develop or refine current heat-related regulations and guidelines to minimise the risk of occupational heat illnesses in vulnerable workers in a warming climate.
Trends and predictors of recent HIV testing over 22 years among a clinic sample of men who have sex with men in South Australia
Publisher: CSIRO Publishing
Date: 2017
DOI: 10.1071/SH16091
Abstract: Background Increasing the frequency of HIV testing is crucial for effective HIV prevention and care. The aim of the present study was to determine whether there has been a change in HIV testing among men who have sex with men (MSM) at the South Australia Specialist Sexual Health (SASSH) clinic over the past two decades. Methods: Computerised medical records of MSM who attended the SASSH at their first visit between 1994 and 2015 were used to determine whether HIV testing had changed among MSM. First HIV tests in each calendar year and return tests within 12 months were analysed. Factors associated with recent HIV testing were also examined. Results: There were 24 036 HIV tests conducted among 8163 in idual MSM over the study period. The proportion of newly registered MSM who reported ever being tested for HIV declined (Ptrend = 0.030), the proportion who reported recent HIV testing did not change (Ptrend = 0.955) and the proportion who have had current HIV testing increased (Ptrend = 0.008). The proportion of MSM who returned to the clinic for HIV testing within 12 months did not change (Ptrend .05), with less than 40% of MSM returning for HIV testing. Factors independently associated with recent HIV testing included MSM aged ≥20 years, (odds ratio (OR) 1.79 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.53–2.10), higher education (OR 1.28 95% CI 1.12–1.45), non-Caucasian (African OR 1.68 95% CI 1.30–2.17), having multiple sex partners (OR 1.47 95% CI 1.29–1.69), having had sex interstate (OR 1.61 95% CI 1.42–1.82) or overseas (OR 1.53 95% CI 1.33–1.76) and injecting drug use (OR 1.56 95% CI 1.29–1.88). Conclusions: HIV testing rate among MSM attending SASSH was suboptimal. New approaches are needed to increase the uptake and early detection of HIV infection among the high-priority MSM population.
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