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1
Hattie, John, and Donald Fitzgerald. "Sex Differences in Attitudes, Achievement and Use of Computers." Australian Journal of Education 31, no. 1 (April 1987): 3–26. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/000494418703100101.
Abstract:
While there is much literature suggesting reasons why there are differences between males and females with respect to computer usage, achievement and attitudes, there is a paucity of empirical research. This study discusses a meta-analysis or synthesis of empirical studies and finds small differences in attitude and no differences in achievement between males and females. Two Australian studies are then reported. One study investigated differences between male and female students, parents, and teachers in 32 schools that have been involved with computers for some time. The second study was based on a representative sample of 1000 schools throughout Australia. The research supported the conclusion of small differences in attitudes, but pointed to a polarity in that as many males as females liked computers, but many more girls ardently disliked computers. There were no differences between primary male and female students in usage and attitudes towards computers, but as the students progressed through secondary schools, the differences became marked. Various reasons for these findings are evaluated and some strategies suggested to encourage girls to use computers.
2
Lamb, Stephen. "Completing School in Australia: Trends in the 1990s." Australian Journal of Education 42, no. 1 (April 1998): 5–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/000494419804200102.
Abstract:
AFTER a period of dramatic growth in school completion in Australia, rates of school retention have begun to decline. At its peak in 1992 the national rate of retention to Year 12 was approximately 77 per cent. By 1995 the rate had fallen to 72 per cent. The aim of this paper is to document state, system, and social differences in the recent downturn in school completion rates in Australia. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and from the Australian Youth Survey are used to look at patterns across states, school systems, geographical locations, social backgrounds, and by sex. The results suggest that during the 1990s the downturn in completion has been uneven and some groups of users which had come to rely on schooling during the 1980s for their future economic security are now turning away from school. The findings indicate a continuing need to monitor the numbers of young people completing school and their backgrounds.
3
Zabuska, Anna, Jane Ginsborg, and David Wasley. "A preliminary comparison study of burnout and engagement in performance students in Australia, Poland and the UK." International Journal of Music Education 36, no. 3 (January 19, 2018): 366–79. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0255761417751242.
Abstract:
While there is a growing body of research concerning the well-being of music students, burnout and engagement remain largely unexplored. Likewise, cross-national variations in approaches to music education, and different educational experiences of men and women may influence burnout and engagement. This preliminary study aimed to inform further research by establishing the levels of, and exploring cross-national and sex differences in burnout and engagement in music performance students at conservatoires in Australia, Poland and the UK ( n = 331). Self-reported levels of burnout were, typically, low to moderate. Nevertheless, one in ten students reported symptoms such that they could be classified as burned out. Australian and UK students displayed more burnout than students in Poland, although Australian students reported lower levels of reduced sense of accomplishment than Polish and UK students. Self-reported engagement was, typically, moderate to high. Students in Poland reported higher levels of engagement than those in the UK. Women displayed higher levels of global burnout and emotional/physical exhaustion, while men reported lower levels of reduced sense of accomplishment. Further research on burnout and engagement could build on this investigation to gain a better understanding of their impact and the influence of the educational experience on students’ music-related well-being.
4
Harris, Mary B. "Coeducation and Sex Roles." Australian Journal of Education 30, no. 2 (August 1986): 117–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/000494418603000202.
Abstract:
In order to test conflicting hypotheses about the effects of coeducational versus single-sex schooling, 538 first-term Australian university students who had attended single sex or coeducational high schools were compared on a number of variables relating to sex roles. Those from the two types of schools did not differ significantly on the Australian Sex Roles Inventory or on a measure of nontraditional attitudes towards sex roles, although males and females differed in predictable ways. Most subjects, particularly those from coeducational schools, felt that coeducational schools are preferable and lead to a more natural attitude towards the opposite sex. Subjects from coeducational rather than single-sex schools said that they had more opposite-sex friends in high school and were more likely to feel that their school helped rather than hindered their everyday relations with the opposite sex and their chances for a happy marriage. However subjects did not feel that boys and girls learn or behave better in coeducational schools, and there were no differences in the percentages of subjects from the two types of schools who reported having had sexual intercourse or been in love while in high school. The single-sex schools attended tended to differ from the coeducational ones in being smaller, more urban, and more likely to be selective, which made comparisons difficult to interpret. Nevertheless it seems reasonable to conclude that coeducational schooling, at least for this selective sample, may have some advantages in fostering interactions with the opposite sex.
5
Simpson, Steve, Christine Clifford, Kaz Ross, Neil Sefton, Louise Owen, Leigh Blizzard, and Richard Turner. "Sexual health literacy of the student population of the University of Tasmania: results of the RUSSL Study." Sexual Health 12, no. 3 (2015): 207. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh14223.
Abstract:
Background Evidence suggests a varied level of sexual health literacy (SHL) among university student populations, so we evaluated the SHL among students at the University of Tasmania. Methods: Students were invited to complete an anonymous online questionnaire during August/September 2013. SHL was assessed using the ARCSHS National Survey of Australian Secondary Students & Sexual Health (ARC) and the Sexual Health Questionnaire (SHS). Predictors of literacy scores were evaluated by linear regression. Results: The study recruited 1786 participants (8.2% of 2013 student population), of similar composition to the general university population. Female sex, older age, sexual education, and sexual experience were significant predictors of SHL. As hypothesised, students in medical/nursing disciplines had the highest SHL. Less expected were the significant differences by birthplace and religious affiliation, many of which persisted on adjustment for confounders. Compared with Australian/New Zealander students, overseas-born students had significantly lower ARC (–3.6%, P < 0.001) & SHS (–4.2%, P < 0.001); this was driven by Malaysian, Indian, and Chinese students. Compared with agnostic/atheist-identifying students, those of Buddhist (ARC: –5.4%, P = 0.014; SHS: –6.7%, P = 0.002), Hindu (ARC: –8.8%, P = 0.098; SHS: –12.2%, P = 0.027), Muslim (ARC: –16.5%, P < 0.001; SHS: –13.4%, P = 0.001) and Protestant (ARC: –2.3%, P = 0.023; SHS: –4.4%, P < 0.001) identifications had markedly lower SHL. Conclusions: This study, one of the first among university students in Australia, found a varied SHL by sex, age, sexual education and sexual experience, as well as by birthplace and religious affiliation. These findings have applications in orientation and education programs at Australian universities.
6
Foster, Rosalind, Lynne McCormack, Caroline Thng, Handan Wand, and Anna McNulty. "Cross-sectional survey of Chinese-speaking and Thai-speaking female sex workers in Sydney, Australia: factors associated with consistent condom use." Sexual Health 15, no. 5 (2018): 389. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh17205.
Abstract:
Background Previous studies have described inconsistent condom use in Chinese- and Thai-speaking female sex workers in Sydney, Australia. In the present study, we describe the demographics and safe sexual practices in the Chinese- and Thai-speaking female sex workers attending the Sydney Sexual Health Centre (SSHC) in 2014–15. Methods: A self-completed 60-item anonymous questionnaire, adapted from previous surveys conducted in 1993 and 2003, was translated into Chinese and Thai and administered to female sex workers attending the SSHC or seen on outreach. Results: In all, 488 surveys were distributed, of which 435 were returned; 43% in Chinese and 57% in Thai. Most women did not plan on sex work before their arrival in Australia. Compared with Chinese-speaking women, Thai-speaking women rated themselves higher on English language literacy, had better knowledge of the transmission of HIV and sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and were more likely to practice 100% condom use. Overall, 72% of the sex workers surveyed reported consistent condom use for vaginal sex at work. Conclusions: Consistent condom use for vaginal sex at work among Chinese- and Thai-speaking female sex workers has decreased slightly from that reported in a similar survey conducted by the SSHC in 2003, when 85% of sex workers reported consistent condom use. There are significant differences between Chinese- and Thai-speaking sex workers in terms of both knowledge and safer sex practices. Ongoing health promotion efforts should focus on providing culturally appropriate education around STIs and safe sex practices not only to workers, but also to parlour owners, managers and consumers.
7
Bird, Philippa K., Kate E. Pickett, Hilary Graham, Tomas Faresjö, Vincent W. V. Jaddoe, Johnny Ludvigsson, Hein Raat, Louise Seguin, Anne I. Wijtzes, and Jennifer J. McGrath. "Income inequality and social gradients in children’s height: a comparison of cohort studies from five high-income countries." BMJ Paediatrics Open 3, no. 1 (November 2019): e000568. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2019-000568.
Abstract:
BackgroundHealth and well-being are better, on average, in countries that are more equal, but less is known about how this benefit is distributed across society. Height is a widely used, objective indicator of child health and predictor of lifelong well-being. We compared the level and slope of social gradients in children’s height in high-income countries with different levels of income inequality, in order to investigate whether children growing up in all socioeconomic circumstances are healthier in more equal countries.MethodsWe conducted a coordinated analysis of data from five cohort studies from countries selected to represent different levels of income inequality (the USA, UK, Australia, the Netherlands and Sweden). We used standardised methods to compare social gradients in children’s height at age 4–6 years, by parent education status and household income. We used linear regression models and predicted height for children with the same age, sex and socioeconomic circumstances in each cohort.ResultsThe total analytic sample was 37 063 children aged 4–6 years. Gradients by parent education and household income varied between cohorts and outcomes. After adjusting for differences in age and sex, children in more equal countries (Sweden, the Netherlands) were taller at all levels of parent education and household income than children in less equal countries (USA, UK and Australia), with the greatest between-country differences among children with less educated parents and lowest household incomes.ConclusionsThe study provides preliminary evidence that children across society do better in more equal countries, with greatest benefit among children from the most disadvantaged socioeconomic groups.
8
Goodman, Samantha, Gabriela C. Armendariz, Adele Corkum, Laura Arellano, Alejandra Jáuregui, Matthew Keeble, Josephine Marshall, et al. "Recall of government healthy eating campaigns by consumers in five countries." Public Health Nutrition 24, no. 13 (April 12, 2021): 3986–4000. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1368980021001415.
Abstract:
AbstractObjective:To examine awareness and recall of healthy eating public education campaigns in five countries.Design:Data were cross-sectional and collected as part of the 2018 International Food Policy Study. Respondents were asked whether they had seen government healthy eating campaigns in the past year; if yes (awareness), they were asked to describe the campaign. Open-ended descriptions were coded to indicate recall of specific campaigns. Logistic models regressed awareness of healthy eating campaigns on participant country, age, sex, ethnicity, education, income adequacy and BMI. Analyses were also stratified by country.Setting:Online surveys.Participants:Participants were Nielsen panelists aged ≥18 years in Australia, Canada, Mexico, UK and the USA (n 22 463).Results:Odds of campaign awareness were higher in Mexico (50·9 %) than UK (18·2 %), Australia (17·9 %), the USA (13·0 %) and Canada (10·2 %) (P < 0·001). Awareness was also higher in UK and Australia v. Canada and the USA, and the USA v. Canada (P < 0·001). Overall, awareness was higher among males v. females and respondents with medium or high v. low education (P < 0·001 for all). Similar results were found in stratified models, although no sex difference was observed in Australia or UK (P > 0·05), and age was associated with campaign awareness in UK (P < 0·001). Common keywords in all countries included sugar/sugary drinks, fruits and vegetables, and physical activity. The top five campaigns recalled were Chécate, mídete, muévete (Mexico), PrevenIMSS (Mexico), Change4Life (UK), LiveLighter® (Australia), and Actívate, Vive Mejor (Mexico).Conclusions:In Mexico, UK and Australia, comprehensive campaigns to promote healthy lifestyles appear to have achieved broad, population-level reach.
9
Rosier, Malcolm J. "Results from the second international science study: Some sex differences for Australian 14-year-old students." Research in Science Education 18, no. 1 (December 1988): 205–10. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/bf02356596.
10
Jackson, Caroline A., Cathie L. M. Sudlow, and Gita D. Mishra. "Education, sex and risk of stroke: a prospective cohort study in New South Wales, Australia." BMJ Open 8, no. 9 (September 2018): e024070. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024070.
Abstract:
ObjectiveTo determine whether the association between highest educational attainment and stroke differed by sex and age; and whether potential mediators of observed associations differ by sex.DesignProspective cohort study.SettingPopulation based, New South Wales, Australia.Participants253 657 stroke-free participants from the New South Wales 45 and Up Study.Outcome measuresFirst-ever stroke events, identified through linkage to hospital and mortality records.ResultsDuring mean follow-up of 4.7 years, 2031 and 1528 strokes occurred among men and women, respectively. Age-standardised stroke rate was inversely associated with education level, with the absolute risk difference between the lowest and highest education group greater among women than men. In relative terms, stroke risk was slightly more pronounced in women than men when comparing low versus high education (age-adjusted HRs: 1.41, 95% CI 1.16 to 1.71 and 1.25, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.46, respectively), but there was no clear evidence of statistical interaction. This association persisted into older age, but attenuated. Much of the increased stroke risk was explained by modifiable lifestyle factors, in both men and women.ConclusionLow education is associated with increased stroke risk in men and women, and may be marginally steeper in women than men. This disadvantage attenuates but persists into older age, particularly for women. Modifiable risk factors account for much of the excess risk from low education level. Public health policy and governmental decision-making should reflect the importance of education, for both men and women, for positive health throughout the life course.
11
Mindel, A., C. Marks, R. Tideman, J. Taylor, C. Seifert, G. Berry, B. Trudinger, and A. Cunningham. "Sexual behaviour and social class in Australian women." International Journal of STD & AIDS 14, no. 5 (May 1, 2003): 344–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/095646203321605567.
Abstract:
Sexual behaviour is determined by social, cultural and personal factors. Sexual behaviour studies have been conducted in many countries. However, information from Australia is limited. This study was conducted in Obstetrics Department, Westmead Hospital, Sydney. Questionnaire-derived demographic and behavioural characteristics for public and private patients were compared using bivariate and logistic regression analyses. Of the patients, 3036 were public, and 595 private. On bivariate analysis some significant differences were private patients more likely to be born in Australia and have a higher education level whereas public patients were more likely to have had a greater number of lifetime sexual partners and younger age at first sex. Public patients were more likely to be herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) antibody positive (12%) than private patients (6%). On logistic regression significant variables included country of birth, being HSV-2 antibody positive, and age at first sex. A number of sexual and social variables were significantly different, comparing patients in the public and private sectors. Evaluation of interventions to reduce the sexual risk to women in the public sector should be considered, including encouraging young women to delay their sexual debut, and reducing the number of sexual partners.
12
Rowe, Kenneth J. "Single-Sex and Mixed-Sex Classes: The Effects of Class Type on Student Achievement, Confidence and Participation in Mathematics." Australian Journal of Education 32, no. 2 (August 1988): 180–202. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/000494418803200204.
Abstract:
Among the intervention strategies designed to increase the participation and achievement of girls in mathematics and science education, the establishment of single-sex classes in Australian coeducational postprimary schools seems to be growing faster than the substantive evidence to justify it. This paper reports the findings from the first three stages of a longitudinal case study designed to examine the effects of single-sex and mixed-sex classes on student achievement, confidence and participation in mathematics, at a large Victorian postprimary school. Despite some limitations in the data, the results indicated nonsignificant gender differences and a putative causal relationship between confidence and achievement. While the change in students' mathematics achievement over time, independent of confidence, was similar for all students, regardless of class type, there was a significant class-type intervention effect on students' confidence in learning and using mathematics, independent of achievement. Moreover, for those students concerned, being placed in single-sex classes was associated with greater confidence which, in turn, significantly increased the likelihood of their subsequent participation in senior mainstream mathematics education.
13
Spencer, Nicholas James, Johnny Ludvigsson, Guannan Bai, Lise Gauvin, Susan A. Clifford, Yara Abu Awad, Jeremy D. Goldhaber-Fiebert, et al. "Social gradients in ADHD by household income and maternal education exposure during early childhood: Findings from birth cohort studies across six countries." PLOS ONE 17, no. 3 (March 16, 2022): e0264709. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0264709.
Abstract:
Objective This study aimed to examine social gradients in ADHD during late childhood (age 9–11 years) using absolute and relative relationships with socioeconomic status exposure (household income, maternal education) during early childhood (<5 years) in seven cohorts from six industrialised countries (UK, Australia, Canada, The Netherlands, USA, Sweden). Methods Secondary analyses were conducted for each birth cohort. Risk ratios, pooled risk estimates, and absolute inequality, measured by the Slope Index of Inequality (SII), were estimated to quantify social gradients in ADHD during late childhood by household income and maternal education measured during early childhood. Estimates were adjusted for child sex, mother age at birth, mother ethnicity, and multiple births. Findings All cohorts demonstrated social gradients by household income and maternal education in early childhood, except for maternal education in Quebec. Pooled risk estimates, relating to 44,925 children, yielded expected gradients (income: low 1.83(CI 1.38,2.41), middle 1.42(1.13,1.79), high (reference); maternal education: low 2.13(1.39,3.25), middle 1.42(1.13,1.79)). Estimates of absolute inequality using SII showed that the largest differences in ADHD prevalence between the highest and lowest levels of maternal education were observed in Australia (4% lower) and Sweden (3% lower); for household income, the largest differences were observed in Quebec (6% lower) and Canada (all provinces: 5% lower). Conclusion Findings indicate that children in families with high household income or maternal education are less likely to have ADHD at age 9–11. Absolute inequality, in combination with relative inequality, provides a more complete account of the socioeconomic status and ADHD relationship in different high-income countries. While the study design precludes causal inference, the linear relation between early childhood social circumstances and later ADHD suggests a potential role for policies that promote high levels of education, especially among women, and adequate levels of household income over children’s early years in reducing risk of later ADHD.
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Russell, Alan, Craig H. Hart, Clyde C. Robinson, and Susanne F. Olsen. "Children's sociable and aggressive behaviour with peers: A comparison of the US and Australia, and contributions of temperament and parenting styles." International Journal of Behavioral Development 27, no. 1 (January 2003): 74–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01650250244000038.
Abstract:
Links between both temperament and parenting, and children's sociable and aggressive behaviour with peers (physical and relational), were examined. The research was undertaken in two Western cultures (the United States and Australia) assumed to be similar in socialisation practices and emphases. The moderating effects of parent sex and child sex were also examined. Parents completed questionnaires on parenting styles and child temperament. Preschool teachers rated children's aggressive and sociable behaviour. US children were rated higher on both types of aggression by teachers and on sociability, activity, and emotionally by parents. Girls were rated as more relationally aggressive and more prosocial than boys, with boys higher on physical aggression. Mothers were more authoritative, with fathers more authoritarian, although the latter was mainly a result obtained from US parents. In both the United States and Australia, temperament consistently predicted child sociable and aggressive behaviours, with some evidence of fathers' authoritarian parenting also contributing. The results show the relevance for parenting and child development of gender, and the importance of culture differences even between two Western and individualist countries.
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Cummins, Phyllis, Takashi Yamashita, and Christopher Phillipson. "DISPARITIES IN HUMAN CAPITAL INVESTMENT OVER THE GENDERED LIFE COURSE: AN INTERNATIONAL COMPARISON." Innovation in Aging 3, Supplement_1 (November 2019): S3—S4. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/geroni/igz038.009.
Abstract:
Abstract Income disparities by gender are a persistent problem throughout the world. These disparities place women at risk for economic insecurity both while working and in retirement. Education and continued skill upgrading are key to reducing income disparities, but it is well documented that both older men and women are less likely to participate in adult education and training (AET) than their younger counterparts. In this symposium we present gender and age-based differences in AET in Australia, Canada, England/Northern Ireland and the United States. Also, given the increasing use of technology, technology-related problem-solving skills are compared across these four nations. In addition, we discuss current, and potentially new, country level policies and practices that facilitate the provision of AET over the second half of the life course. Yamashita and colleagues use data from the Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) to provide an overview of AET participation, income, and technology-related problem-solving skills by sex and age groups in the four countries. Vickerstaff and van der Horst use data from five different organizations in the United Kingdom to examine attitudes of older workers about participation in training and the extent to which these attitudes result from self-imposed ageism. Taylor presents survey data from Australia that analyzes types of training women are undertaking, factors associated with participation in training, and the importance of employer support. Finally, Harrington and Cummins use PIAAC data to analyze age variations in AET participation and gender differences in employer sponsored training in Canada.
16
Fitzsimmons, Terrance W., Miriam S. Yates, and Victor J. Callan. "Lean in? The role of single sex schools in the gendering of confidence in high school adolescents." Australian Journal of Career Development 30, no. 2 (July 2021): 139–49. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/10384162211012045.
Abstract:
Structural inequalities and stereotypes are held out as explanations for gender differences in reported levels of confidence. However, while it is reported that in the absence of stereotypes women and men should possess identical levels of self-confidence, no study to date has tested this hypothesis. Single sex schools were identified as an environment where structural bias might be mitigated. From a survey of 9,414 Australian adolescents aged 13–17 years attending single sex high schools, no significant difference in overall self-efficacy was identified between genders. Overall, by age cohort there was no significant difference between boys’ and girls’ self-efficacy, with a minor exception of the 15 years cohort. Self-efficacy levels were linked to participation in team sport and undertaking leadership roles. The study provides the first large scale study that demonstrates that women are no less confident than men under conditions where gendered structures are mitigated by their environment.
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de Visser, Richard O., Paul B. Badcock, Judy M. Simpson, Andrew E. Grulich, Anthony M. A. Smith, Juliet Richters, and Chris Rissel. "Attitudes toward sex and relationships: the Second Australian Study of Health and Relationships." Sexual Health 11, no. 5 (2014): 397. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh14099.
Abstract:
Background Attitudes towards sex and relationships influence laws about what is and is not permissible and social sanctions against behaviours considered unacceptable. They are an important focus for research given their links to sexual behaviour. The aim of the present study was to describe attitudes towards sex and relationships, to identify correlates of scores on a scale of sexual liberalism and to examine responses to jealousy-evoking scenarios among Australian adults. Methods: Computer-assisted landline and mobile telephone interviews were completed by a population-representative sample of 20 094 men and women aged 16–69 years. The overall participation rate among eligible people was 66.2%. Respondents expressed their agreement with 11 attitude statements, five of which formed a valid scale of liberalism, and also responded to a jealousy-evoking scenario. Results: There was general agreement that premarital sex was acceptable (87%), that sex was important for wellbeing (83%) and that sex outside a committed relationship was unacceptable (83%). Respondents were accepting of homosexual behaviour and abortion and few believed that sex education encouraged earlier sexual activity. More liberal attitudes were associated with: being female; speaking English at home; homosexual or bisexual identity; not being religious; greater education; and higher incomes. Respondents who expressed more liberal attitudes had more diverse patterns of sexual experience. Predicted sex differences were found in response to the jealousy-evoking scenario — men were more jealous of a partner having sex with someone else and women were more jealous of a partner forming an emotional attachment — but responses varied with age. Conclusion: Sexual attitudes of Australians largely support a permissive but monogamous paradigm. Since 2002, there has been a shift to less tolerance of sex outside a committed relationship, but greater acceptance of homosexual behaviour.
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Walton, Merrilyn, Patrick J. Kelly, E. Mary Chiarella, Terry Carney, Belinda Bennett, Marie Nagy, and Suzanne Pierce. "Profile of the most common complaints for five health professions in Australia." Australian Health Review 44, no. 1 (2020): 15. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah18074.
Abstract:
Objective The aims of this study were to profile the most common complaints and to examine whether any demographic factors are associated with receiving a complaint for five health professions in Australia. Methods A national cohort study was conducted for all complaints received for medicine, nursing/midwifery, dentistry, pharmacy and psychology from 1 July 2012 to 31 December 2013 (18 months). Data were collected from the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), the New South Wales (NSW) Health Professional Councils’ Authority and the NSW Health Care Complaints Commission. The frequency and risk of complaints were summarised for the five professions and by demographic information. Results There were 545283 practitioners registered with AHPRA between 1 July 2012 and 31 December 2013, consisting of 20935 dentists, 101066 medical practitioners, 363040 nurses/midwives, 28370 pharmacists and 31872 psychologists. During the study period there were 12616 complaints, corresponding to an annual rate of 1.5 per 100 practitioners. Complaints were most common for doctors and dentists (5% per annum per practitioner) and least common for nurses/midwives (0.5% per annum per practitioner). Sex (P<0.01), age (P<0.01) and country of birth (P<0.01) were all associated with risk of complaint. The most common complaints were clinical care (44% of all complaints), medication (10%) and health impairment of the practitioner (8%). Types of complaints varied by profession, sex and age. Conclusions The risk of a complaint is low, but varies by profession and demographics. The types of complaints also vary by profession and demographics. Differences between professions is most likely driven by their different work tasks and work environments. What is already known on this subject? Although complaints are summarised annually from state and national health regulators, no overall national summary of complaints across professions exists. Thus, it is difficult to examine which complaints are most common, how professions differ from each other or what factors may be associated with risk and type of complaint. Previous studies have primarily focused on a single profession, such as medicine, where, for example, the number of prior complaints, sex, doctor speciality and age have been found to be associated with recurrent complaints. What does this paper add? This paper is the first of this kind to provide a national summary of all complaints from five of the most common health professions in Australia. We found that regardless of profession, men were at least twice as likely to have a complaint made against them than women. We also found that the types of complaint differed between men and women. There were similarities across professions for the most common types of complaints, but clear differences between professions were also noted. Not surprising, clinical care was typically the most common type of complaint for the five professions, but somewhat surprising was the inclusion of health impairment as one of the most common types of complaints. What are the implications for practitioners? Identifying the most common complaints, and the factors associated with these, may assist practitioners to understand their risk(s) of complaint and could potentially assist educators and regulators develop education programs that help reduce complaints.
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Boldy, Duncan P., Caroline Yates, and Teresa A. Ong. "The role of health professionals in health promotion: a case study of medical imaging technologists and alcohol." Australian Health Review 34, no. 1 (2010): 36. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah09658.
Abstract:
This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of medical imaging technologists (MITs) in Western Australia regarding alcohol. The WA population of 220 MIT members of the Australian Institute of Radiography was surveyed by mail in 2004. Specific questions were devised and piloted covering knowledge of alcohol, alcoholic content and drink size, and related personal behaviour. Responses were obtained from 91 MITs. Overall, they had a good knowledge of key facts related to alcohol. However, this did not always translate into appropriate attitudes and behaviour related to dealing with alcohol abuse. While statistically significant differences were not found according to sex, age group or location (metropolitan or rural), some trends were apparent. This study has found that MITs are not currently as equipped as they should be to be part of the health promotion model of education. What is known about the topic?Health professionals regularly see the results of accidents, injuries and disease from the abuse of alcohol, yet their role in relation to health promotion is under-researched. Little is known about the knowledge, attitudes and behaviour of medical imaging technologists in relation to alcohol and its abuse, and hence their preparedness to play a health promotion role. What does this paper add?While the respondents had good knowledge about alcohol this did not translate into appropriate behaviours. What are the implications for practitioners?Information is provided to guide a more vigorous approach towards educating health professionals about alcohol abuse for a more active role in health promotion.
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Mahmood, M. Afzal, Anna E. Bauze, Justin T. Lokhorst, Peng Bi, and Arthur Saniotis. "Influence of living arrangements on health services utilisation in Australia." Australian Health Review 36, no. 1 (2012): 34. http://dx.doi.org/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.
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Deroover, Kristine, Tamara Bucher, Corneel Vandelanotte, Hein de Vries, and Mitch J. Duncan. "Practical Nutrition Knowledge Mediates the Relationship Between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Diet Quality in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis." American Journal of Health Promotion 34, no. 1 (October 2, 2019): 59–62. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0890117119878074.
Abstract:
Purpose: To investigate the direct and indirect effects of sociodemographic/health factors on diet quality through practical nutrition knowledge (PNK) about how to compose a balanced meal. Design: A cross-sectional study using data from an online survey of the 10 000 Steps cohort (data collected November-December 2016). Setting: Australia. Participants: Adults (n = 8161). Response rate was 16.7%. Measures: Self-reported lifestyle, health, and sociodemographic characteristics, including diet quality and PNK. Analysis: The PROCESS macro for SPSS was used to conduct the mediation analyses. Results: Better diet quality was associated with being female, older, more highly educated, and having a lower body mass index. Mediation analysis showed that PNK significantly mediated the associations between sex (a*b = 0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.39-0.70) and education (vocational education: a*b = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.12-0.35, university: a*b = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.35-0.64), and diet quality. Practical nutrition knowledge suppressed the association between age and diet quality (a*b = −0.03, 95% CI = −0.04 to −0.03). Conclusion: Variations in diet quality between sociodemographic groups were partially explained by differences in PNK, suggesting that focusing public health efforts on increasing this specific knowledge type might be promising.
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Slee, Phillip T., and Darryl G. Gross. "Children's and Adolescents' Fears and the Threat of Nuclear War: an Australian Study." Children Australia 13, no. 1 (1988): 15–17. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0312897000001764.
Abstract:
As adults, it is tempting to dismiss children's fears of such things as animals, the supernatural and physical events as vivid aspects of their imagination and to reassure ourselves that such fears are relatively minor or of limited concern. To this extent adults fail to realise children's fears reflect something of their understanding of the world and their place in it. To date, there has been very little research conducted in Australia on the nature and extent of children's fears. However, research conducted in the United States and Europe has identified a number of features of fears including sex differences and age trends.
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Enticott, Joanne, Jaskirath Singh Gill, Simon L. Bacon, Kim L. Lavoie, Daniel S. Epstein, Shrinkhala Dawadi, Helena J. Teede, and Jacqueline Boyle. "Attitudes towards vaccines and intention to vaccinate against COVID-19: a cross-sectional analysis—implications for public health communications in Australia." BMJ Open 12, no. 1 (January 2022): e057127. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2021-057127.
Abstract:
ObjectiveTo examine SARS-CoV-2 vaccine confidence, attitudes and intentions in Australian adults as part of the iCARE Study.Design and settingCross-sectional online survey conducted when free COVID-19 vaccinations first became available in Australia in February 2021.ParticipantsTotal of 1166 Australians from general population aged 18–90 years (mean 52, SD of 19).Main outcome measuresPrimary outcome: responses to question ‘If a vaccine for COVID-19 were available today, what is the likelihood that you would get vaccinated?’.Secondary outcome: analyses of putative drivers of uptake, including vaccine confidence, socioeconomic status and sources of trust, derived from multiple survey questions.ResultsSeventy-eight per cent reported being likely to receive a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Higher SARS-CoV-2 vaccine intentions were associated with: increasing age (OR: 2.01 (95% CI 1.77 to 2.77)), being male (1.37 (95% CI 1.08 to 1.72)), residing in least disadvantaged area quintile (2.27 (95% CI 1.53 to 3.37)) and a self-perceived high risk of getting COVID-19 (1.52 (95% CI 1.08 to 2.14)). However, 72% did not believe they were at a high risk of getting COVID-19. Findings regarding vaccines in general were similar except there were no sex differences. For both the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine and vaccines in general, there were no differences in intentions to vaccinate as a function of education level, perceived income level and rurality. Knowing that the vaccine is safe and effective and that getting vaccinated will protect others, trusting the company that made it and vaccination recommended by a doctor were reported to influence a large proportion of the study cohort to uptake the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Seventy-eight per cent reported the intent to continue engaging in virus-protecting behaviours (mask wearing, social distancing, etc) postvaccine.ConclusionsMost Australians are likely to receive a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine. Key influencing factors identified (eg, knowing vaccine is safe and effective, and doctor’s recommendation to get vaccinated) can inform public health messaging to enhance vaccination rates.
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Temple-Smith, Meredith, Sandra Gifford, and Mark StoovÚ. "The lived experience of men and women with hepatitis C: implications for support needs and health information." Australian Health Review 27, no. 2 (2004): 46. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah042720046.
Abstract:
Meredith Temple-Smith is a Senior Research Fellow in the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, La Trobe University.Sandra Gifford is Professor of Public Health and Director of the Refugee Health Research Centre, La Trobe University.Mark Stoov� is a Lecturer in the School of Health Sciences, Deakin University.Hepatitis C is Australia's most commonly notified infectious disease. Health education and support strategies that are gender-specific are key components of effective management of chronic illness, yet almost no information exists about gender-specific needs of those with hepatitis C. This paper reports on a qualitative study of the experiences of diagnosis, support and discrimination among men and women living with hepatitis C in Melbourne. Content analysis of indepth interviews conducted with 20 women and 12 men revealed gender related differences in relation to symptom recognition, health seeking attitudes and notions of social support, with men tending to dismiss the impact of their illness and their needs for education and support in comparison to women. Results highlight the need to take gender into account when addressing primary health care issues for people living with hepatitis C.
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Spendlove, Jessica K., Susan E. Heaney, Janelle A. Gifford, Tania Prvan, Gareth S. Denyer, and Helen T. O'Connor. "Evaluation of general nutrition knowledge in elite Australian athletes." British Journal of Nutrition 107, no. 12 (October 10, 2011): 1871–80. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s0007114511005125.
Abstract:
The aim of the present study was to investigate and benchmark the level of general nutrition knowledge in elite Australian athletes (EA) against a similar aged community (CM) and criterion sample with dietetic training (DT). EA (n175), CM (n116) and DT (n53) completed the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire (GNKQ), which assesses four domains (sections A–D) of general nutrition knowledge (section A: dietary guidelines; section B: sources of nutrients; section C: choosing everyday foods; section D: diet–disease relationships). Age, sex and education level were collected in all groups, and athletic calibre and sport type (team or individual) in EA. Dietitians and nutrition scientists (n53) re-examined the GNKQ for content validity, resulting in instrument revision (R-GNKQ; ninety-six items). Psychometric assessment (internal consistency: Cronbach-α; test–retest: Spearman rank correlation) was performed in a sub-sample (n28). Independentttests, ANOVA and ANCOVA (χ2for categorical variables) were used to assess between-group differences. DT scored higher than EA and CM in all sub-sections and overall (P < 0·005). EA scored lower than CM in GNKQ for section B (P < 0·005) and overall (P < 0·005), and in R-GNKQ for section B (P < 0·005), section C (P < 0·005), section D (P = 0·006) and overall (P < 0·005). Overall score was influenced by age (P = 0·036 for GNKQ:P = 0·053 for R-GNKQ), sex (P = 0·016 for GNKQ:P = 0·003 for R-GNKQ) and athletic calibre (P = 0·029 for R-GNKQ only), but not level of education, living situation or ethnicity. EA and CM performed best on section A and worst on D. EA had lower overall general knowledge scores than CM. This was significantly influenced by age and sex.
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Blum, Andreas, Christian Ingvar, Michelle Avramidis, Andreas von Kannen, Scott W. Menzies, Håkan Olsson, Gisele G. Rezze, Ann-Marie Wennberg, and Karin Westerhoff. "Time to Diagnosis of Melanoma: Same Trend in Different Continents." Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery 11, no. 4 (July 2007): 137–44. http://dx.doi.org/10.2310/7750.2007.00023.
Abstract:
Background: Patients and physicians both play an important role in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma. Objective: The purpose of this study was to assess important factors of delay in diagnosis at different centers and on three continents. Methods: Between October 2001 and October 2002, patients with histologically confirmed invasive melanoma were included in the study and given an established questionnaire. Recorded patients and tumor characteristics included age, sex, anatomic location, Breslow thickness, patients' awareness of the lesion and time with suspicion, and physicians' time (delay) before the operation. Results: The study included 985 patients (486 males, 499 females): 253 from Germany, 464 from Sweden, 58 from Brazil, and 210 from Australia. More females detected their lesions by themselves. The change to a darker color (21 %) and enlargement of the area of the lesion (19%) were the major signs. The highest knowledge among patients that early detection may improve the outcome was found in Sweden and Australia. At each center, the media (newspaper, magazine, radio, and television) provided the best sources of information about melanoma. Twenty to 33% of all physicians initially consulted missed the melanoma diagnosis, independent of their specialty. Conclusions: There are still factors for the delay in melanoma diagnosis in different countries and continents, but the differences are rather small. The results should be included in planning prevention campaigns in this specific field and in the education of medical students, physicians of all specialties, and other health professionals.
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Hendriks, Jacqueline, Sue Fyfe, Dorota A. Doherty, Angela Jacques, Irene Styles, Martha Hickey, and S. Rachel Skinner. "Attitudes towards abortion in male and female adolescents with diverse sexual and pregnancy experiences: a cross-sectional study." Sexual Health 17, no. 1 (2020): 77. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/sh19084.
Abstract:
Background Research focused on adolescents’ attitudes towards abortion is limited, and validated scales are not routinely used. A greater understanding of adolescents’ attitudes towards abortion could better inform the sexuality education strategies targeted at this age group. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was completed by 1470 adolescents (437 males, 1033 females) aged 12–19 years and living in Perth, Australia. Participants were recruited from secondary schools, antenatal clinics and termination clinics to capture varying experiences of sexual activity and pregnancy. Survey items investigated abortion attitudes, sexual behaviour and pregnancy history alongside other demographic and psychosocial factors. Analyses included comparative means and adjusted linear regressions. Results: Sexually active participants (n = 554) and females reporting a previous abortion (n = 196) held more supportive attitudes towards abortion (P < 0.001 for both). Among sexually active females, more supportive attitudes were held by those reporting a previous abortion (β = 2.60, 95% confidence interval 0.93–4.27, P = 0.002), later age (≥16 years) at first vaginal intercourse (P < 0.001), use of oral contraception at last sex (P = 0.029), previous condom use (P < 0.001) and/or three or more oral sex partners in the previous 12 months (P = 0.005). For sexually active males, more supportive attitudes were reported by those whose female partners had used oral contraception at last sex (P = 0.013) or ever (P = 0.017). Multivariable analyses indicated that other correlates, including risky sexual behaviour, had minimal or no effect on attitudes. Conclusions: Adolescents’ attitudes towards abortion appear to be influenced by their ability to personalise and contextualise the effect of a pregnancy. Associations between less-effective contraceptive use and reduced support for abortion may be explained by a diminished perceived risk of parenthood. Educational strategies should acknowledge and respond to differences in abortion attitudes as adolescents commence and navigate sexual relationships.
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Lawes, Jasmin C., Amy E. Peden, Lyndal Bugeja, Luke Strasiotto, Shane Daw, and Richard C. Franklin. "Suicide along the Australian coast: Exploring the epidemiology and risk factors." PLOS ONE 16, no. 5 (May 20, 2021): e0251938. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0251938.
Abstract:
Suicide is an increasing global concern with multiple risk factors, yet location-based understanding is limited. In Australia, surf lifesavers (SLS) and lifeguards patrol the coast, performing rescues and assisting injured people, including people who suicide. This study is a descriptive epidemiological analysis of Australian coastal suicide deaths. The results will be used to inform training and support surf lifesaving personnel and suicide prevention organisations. This is a population-based cross-sectional study of suicide deaths at Australian coastal locations (between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2019). Data were sourced from the National Coronial Information System and SLS Australia’s Incident Report Database. Analyses explored decedent, incident, and risk factors by sex and method. Across the study period, there were 666 coastal suicide deaths (71.0% male, 43.4% jumping from high places [X80]). Males were more likely to suicide by other means (hanging, self-poisoning, firearm discharge; n = 145, 83.8%), compared to females who were more likely to suicide by drowning ([X71]; n = 77, 37.7%). In one third (n = 225, 38.3%) toxicology was a contributing factor. The risk of coastal suicides was 10.3 times higher during the seven-days prior to their birthday (p<0.001). Evidence of mental ill health was reported in 61.4% (n = 409) of cases and evidence of suicidal behaviour was reported for 37.4% of decedents (n = 249), more prevalent in females. SLS responded in 10.7% (n = 71) of coastal suicides (most jumps from high places; n = 36, 50.7%). Coastal suicides differ to national trends suggesting that location-based differences should be considered during development of preventative and protective measures, especially at a community level. Accessibility, availability, perceived lethality and symbolic qualities are proposed to influence suicide location decisions. These results will guide support and education strategies for surf lifesaving personnel, contributes to established, ongoing suicide surveillance efforts (including hot-spot identification) and add to the limited literature exploring place-based suicide.
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Butow, Phyllis Noemi, Lynley Aldridge, Melanie Bell, Ming Sze, Maurice Eisenbruch, Madeleine King, Michael Jefford, Penelope Schofield, Priya Duggal-Beri, and David Goldstein. "Cancer survivorship outcomes in immigrants." Journal of Clinical Oncology 30, no. 15_suppl (May 20, 2012): 6111. http://dx.doi.org/10.1200/jco.2012.30.15_suppl.6111.
Abstract:
6111 Background: Immigration is increasing world-wide. Cancer survivorship is now recognised as a period of difficult adjustment for all patients, and possibly more so for immigrants. We explored disparities in quality of life outcomes for immigrant (IM) versus Anglo-Australian (AA) cancer survivors. Methods: In a cross-sectional design, cancer survivors were recruited through the New South Wales, Queensland and Victorian Cancer Registries in Australia. IM participants, their parents and grandparents were born in a country where Chinese, Greek, or Arabic is spoken and spoke one of those languages. AAs were born in Australia and spoke English. All were diagnosed with cancer 1-3 years previously. Questionnaires (completed in preferred language) included the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (anxiety/ depression), FACT-G (quality of life) and Supportive Care Needs Survey (unmet needs). Outcomes were compared between AA and IM groups in adjusted regression models that included age, gender, socio-economic status, education, marital status, religion, time since diagnosis and cancer type (prostate, colorectal, breast and other). Results: There were 599 participants (response rate 41%). Consent was unrelated to demographic and disease variables. AA and IM groups were similar except that immigrants had higher proportions in the low and highly educated groups (p < 0.0001), and higher socioeconomic status (p = 0.0003). In adjusted analyses (see table), IMs had clinically significant higher depression (possible range 0-21), greater unmet information and physical needs, and lower quality of life than AAs. The possible range for the latter three is 0-100. Conclusions: Immigrants experience poorer outcomes in cancer survivorship, even after adjusting for socio-economic, demographic and disease differences. Interventions are required to improve their adjustment after cancer. Results highlight areas of unmet need that might be better addressed by the health system (particularly with regard to provision of information and support. [Table: see text]
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Milton, Alyssa Clare, Tracey A. Davenport, Frank Iorfino, Anna Flego, Jane M. Burns, and Ian B. Hickie. "Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors and Their Associations With Transitional Life Events in Men and Women: Findings From an International Web-Based Sample." JMIR Mental Health 7, no. 9 (September 11, 2020): e18383. http://dx.doi.org/10.2196/18383.
Abstract:
Background Although numerous studies have demonstrated sex differences in the prevalence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB), there is a clear lack of research examining the similarities and differences between men and women in terms of the relationship between STB, transitional life events, and the coping strategies employed after experiencing such events when they are perceived as stressful. Objective This study aims to examine the differences between men’s and women’s experiences of STB, sociodemographic predictors of STB, and how coping responses after experiencing a stressful transitional life event predict STB. Methods A web-based self-report survey was used to assess the health and well-being of a voluntary community-based sample of men and women aged 16 years and older, living in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States, who were recruited using web-based social media promotion and snowballing. Results In total, 10,765 eligible web-based respondents participated. Compared with men, a significantly greater proportion of women reported STB (P<.001) and endorsed experiencing a transitional life event as stressful (P<.001). However, there were no gender differences in reporting that the transitional life event or events was stressful for those who also reported STB. Significant sociodemographic adjusted risk factors of STB included younger age; identifying as a sexual minority; lower subjective social connectedness; lower subjective intimate bonds; experiencing a stressful transitional life event in the past 12 months; living alone (women only); not being in employment, education, or training (women only); suddenly or unexpectedly losing a job (men only); and experiencing a relationship breakdown (men only). Protective factors included starting a new job, retiring, having a language background other than English, and becoming a parent for the first time (men only). The results relating to coping after experiencing a self-reported stressful transitional life event in the past 12 months found that regardless of sex, respondents who reported STB compared with those who did not were less likely to engage in activities that promote social connections, such as talking about their feelings (P<.001). Coping strategies significantly explained 19.0% of the STB variance for men (F16,1027=14.64; P<.001) and 22.0% for women (F16,1977=36.45; P<.001). Conclusions This research highlights multiple risk factors for STB, one of which includes experiencing at least one stressful transitional life event in the past 12 months. When individuals are experiencing such events, support from services and the community alike should consider using sex-specific or targeted strategies, as this research indicates that compared with women, more men do nothing when experiencing stress after a transitional life event and may be waiting until they experience STB to engage with their social networks for support.
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Riley, R. H., D. H. Wilks, and J. A. Freeman. "Anaesthetists’ Attitudes towards an Anaesthesia Simulator. A Comparative Survey: U.S.A. and Australia." Anaesthesia and Intensive Care 25, no. 5 (October 1997): 514–19. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0310057x9702500510.
Abstract:
Anaesthesia simulation has been suggested as a method to enhance the training of clinicians without exposing patient to risk. Recently, two anaesthesia simulators have become commercially available in the U.S.A. Attitudes towards anaesthesia simulators have not been previously surveyed. With institutional approval, a survey questionnaire was given to 1. all clinical staff of the Department of Anesthesiology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center; and 2. all anaesthetists attending the Annual General Meeting of the Australian Society of Anaesthetists. An information sheet containing details about anaesthesia simulation in general and the special capabilities of a particular commercial anaesthesia simulator was included with the survey instrument. The survey was anonymous and contained 15 questions. Attitudinal responses were recorded using an anchored visual analog 100 mm scale. We surveyed anaesthetists during September-October 1993. Completed forms were returned by 183 anaesthetists. Respondents were aged 25–67 years (mean age 41±10 yr) and were grouped by staff position (78% faculty, 22% trainees), sex (79% male, 21% female), country of practice (44% Aust, 56% U.S.A.) and years in practice. Seventy-three per cent staff were in favour (VAS>60) of departmental purchase of a simulator (with no significant difference between countries) and 76% expressed willingness (VAS>60) to undergo testing in their own time (with Australian anaesthetists significantly more willing to do so). However, 65% were not in favour (VAS <40) of the compulsory use of a simulator for re-certification or re-accreditation of anaesthesia practitioners, with American anaesthetists (anesthesiologists) significantly more opposed to it. The most frequent comment related to the cost. There is majority support for the purchase of an anaesthesia simulator but there is widespread concern for its high cost. In general, anaesthesia simulation is perceived more as an education tool rather than an instrument for (re)certification.
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Ifediora, Chris O. "Online Medical Education for Doctors: Identifying Potential Gaps to the Traditional, Face-to-Face Modality." Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development 6 (January 2019): 238212051982791. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/2382120519827912.
Abstract:
Background: Online education options increasingly complement traditional face-to-face (F2F) approaches. Few studies have compared both formats on doctors, and little evidence exists to prove that the online approach is universally effective. This gap needs to be addressed to ensure that the quality of education and health care delivery is not compromised. Methods: A quantitative survey targeting 881 doctors that required online and F2F teaching sessions offers identical contents over a 12-month period. The surveyed doctors work in the Australian after-hours house-call (AHHC) industry, and the teachings were parts of their continuing professional development activities. Results: In all, 89 responses were received; 10 (11.2%) participated exclusively online, while 23 (25.8%) did so by F2F; 52 (58.4%) engaged through both modalities. No statistical differences existed based on sex, specialty, and post-graduate fellowship status, as well as on the perceptions with teaching structure, contents, and duration of the education programmes. However, F2F-only doctors were likely to be junior and younger than 40 years (odds ratio [OR]: 3.85; P = .01). They also admit easy access to effective teaching environment (OR: 4.07; P = .01) and receive better feedbacks (OR: 3.75; P = .01). Conversely, online-only participants were more likely to combine AHHC duties with regular-hours general practice (OR: 0.15; P = .02) and are generally more satisfied with the programme frequency (OR: 6.90; P = .01). Conclusions: On multiple areas, no differences exist in the medical education delivered by online and the F2F methods to doctors and both should be encouraged. However, younger and junior practitioners, who tend to need feedbacks on their jobs, should participate more in the F2F sessions.
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O’Donnell, Maryanne, Scott B. Teasdale, Xin-Yi Chua, Jamie Hardman, Nan Wu, Jackie Curtis, Katherine Samaras, et al. "The Role of the Microbiome in the Metabolic Health of People with Schizophrenia and Related Psychoses: Cross-Sectional and Pre-Post Lifestyle Intervention Analyses." Pathogens 11, no. 11 (November 1, 2022): 1279. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/pathogens11111279.
Abstract:
The microbiome has been implicated in the development of metabolic conditions which occur at high rates in people with schizophrenia and related psychoses. This exploratory proof-of-concept study aimed to: (i) characterize the gut microbiota in antipsychotic naïve or quasi-naïve people with first-episode psychosis, and people with established schizophrenia receiving clozapine therapy; (ii) test for microbiome changes following a lifestyle intervention which included diet and exercise education and physical activity. Participants were recruited from the Eastern Suburbs Mental Health Service, Sydney, Australia. Anthropometric, lifestyle and gut microbiota data were collected at baseline and following a 12-week lifestyle intervention. Stool samples underwent 16S rRNA sequencing to analyse microbiota diversity and composition. Seventeen people with established schizophrenia and five people with first-episode psychosis were recruited and matched with 22 age-sex, BMI and ethnicity matched controls from a concurrent study for baseline comparisons. There was no difference in α-diversity between groups at baseline, but microbial composition differed by 21 taxa between the established schizophrenia group and controls. In people with established illness pre-post comparison of α-diversity showed significant increases after the 12-week lifestyle intervention. This pilot study adds to the current literature that detail compositional differences in the gut microbiota of people with schizophrenia compared to those without mental illness and suggests that lifestyle interventions may increase gut microbial diversity in patients with established illness. These results show that microbiome studies are feasible in patients with established schizophrenia and larger studies are warranted to validate microbial signatures and understand the relevance of lifestyle change in the development of metabolic conditions in this population.
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Swann, Olivia G., Monique Breslin, Michelle Kilpatrick, Therese A. O’Sullivan, and Wendy H. Oddy. "Differences in dietary fibre intake and associated familial factors in a longitudinal study at two time points across adolescence." Public Health Nutrition 23, no. 14 (December 6, 2019): 2539–47. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s1368980019003446.
Abstract:
AbstractObjective:Dietary fibre is essential for a healthy diet; however, intake is often inadequate. Understanding of sources of dietary fibre and familial factors associated with intake in adolescents is limited, hampering efforts to increase intake. We aimed to determine adequacy of dietary fibre intake in adolescents, examine how intake changes from mid to late adolescence, identify major food sources and explore associations with familial factors.Design:Dietary fibre intake measured with semi-quantitative FFQ and sources calculated with the AUSNUT database. Familial factors determined by questionnaire.Setting:Western Australian Pregnancy Cohort (Raine) Study.Participants:Generation 2 adolescents from the 14- (n 1626) and 17-year (n 835) follow-ups.Results:Mean intake of dietary fibre did not meet national dietary guidelines other than for females aged 14 years. Mean intake of both sexes was lower at 17 years (23·0 (sd 10·0) g/d) than at 14 years (24·3 (sd 9·0) g/d, P < 0·001). The quantity of dietary fibre consumed per megajoule also decreased (2·6 (sd 0·7) g/MJ at 14 years, 2·5 (sd 0·9) g/MJ at 17 years, P = 0·007). The greatest source of dietary fibre was cereals and grains, followed by fruits, then vegetables. In multivariable mixed-model analysis, female sex, Caucasian race, age 14 years, good family functioning, high level of parental education and high energy intake were independently associated with higher dietary fibre intake.Conclusions:Our study highlights an age range and characteristics of adolescents lacking in dietary fibre, thereby identifying target populations for interventions to improve dietary fibre intake across adolescence, which would lead to better health.
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Butler, Tony, Gavin Andrews, Stephen Allnutt, Chika Sakashita, Nadine E. Smith, and John Basson. "Mental Disorders in Australian Prisoners: a Comparison with a Community Sample." Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 40, no. 3 (March 2006): 272–76. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/j.1440-1614.2006.01785.x.
Abstract:
Background: The plight of those with mental health problems and the possible role of prisons in “warehousing” these individuals has received considerable media and political attention. Prisoners are generally excluded from community-based surveys and to date no studies have compared prisoners to the community. Objective: The objective was to examine whether excess psychiatric morbidity exists in prisoners compared to the general community after adjusting for demographics. Method: Prison data were obtained from a consecutive sample of reception prisoners admitted into the state's correctional system in 2001 (n=916). Community data were obtained from the 1997 Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing (n=8168). Mental health diagnoses were obtained using the Composite International Diagnostic Interview and a number of other screening measures. Weighting was used in calculating the 12-month prevalence estimates to control for demographic differences between the two samples. Logistic regression adjusting for age, sex and education was used to compare the prison and community samples. Results: The 12-month prevalence of any psychiatric illness in the last year was 80% in prisoners and 31% in the community. Substantially more psychiatric morbidity was detected among prisoners than in the community group after accounting for demographic differences, particularly symptoms of psychosis (OR=11.8, 95% CI 7.5–18.7), substance use disorders (OR=11.4, 95% CI 9.7–13.6) and personality disorders (OR=8.6, 95% CI 7.2–10.3). Mental functioning and disability score were worse for prisoners than the community except for physical health. Conclusions: This study found an overrepresentation of psychiatric morbidity in the prisoner population. Identifying the causes of this excess requires further investigation.
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Browne, Jan, Victor Minichiello, and David Plummer. "Guided reflection: transcending a routine approach in the management of sexually transmissible infections." International Journal of STD & AIDS 13, no. 9 (September 1, 2002): 624–32. http://dx.doi.org/10.1258/09564620260216335.
Abstract:
This paper describes a distinctive approach to the sexually transmissible infections (STI) clinical consultation: 'the guided reflection approach'. The authors coined this term and identified the guided reflection approach through analysis of 22 in-depth interviews with practitioners who provide care for people with STI, and 34 people who had attended a healthcare facility in Australia for screening or treatment of an STI. A grounded theory method was used to collect and analyse this information. The data revealed when the STI consultation is conducted using the principles characterized by the guided reflection approach creates contexts for sexual empowerment that have the potential to effectively assist people to gain autonomy for safe sex. Routinely, most of the practitioners in this study were shown to direct the STI consultation towards risk behaviours and practices and prevention of transmission, with minimal intervention. However, this study shows that if clinical interaction is to make a difference to the patient's autonomy for sexual behaviour, two changes will be required. First, practitioners need to adopt the goal of assisting patients to attain levels of autonomy, and second, practitioners require education to assist them to develop the interactive skills needed to engage patients in dialogue and reflection about sexual behaviour.
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Corscadden, L., E. J. Callander, and S. M. Topp. "Disparities in access to health care in Australia for people with mental health conditions." Australian Health Review 43, no. 6 (2019): 619. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah17259.
Abstract:
Objective One aim of Australia’s Equally Well National Consensus Statement is to improve monitoring of the physical health of people with mental health conditions, which includes measures of accessibility and people’s experiences of physical health care services. The present analysis contributes to this aim by using population survey data to evaluate whether, and in what domains, Australians with a mental health condition experience barriers in accessing care when compared with Australians without a mental health condition. Methods The 2016 Commonwealth Fund International Health Policy Survey includes a sample of 5248 Australian adults. Access to care was measured using 39 survey questions from before to after reaching services. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify disparities in barriers to access, comparing experiences of people with and without a self-reported mental health condition, adjusting for age, sex, immigrant status, income and self-rated health. Results Australians with mental health conditions were more likely to experience barriers for 29 of 39 access measures (odds ratio (OR) >1.55; P<0.05). On average, the prevalence of barriers was 10 percentage points higher for those with a condition. When measured as ratios, the largest barriers for people with mental health conditions were for affordability. When measured as percentage point differences, the largest disparities were observed for experiences of not being treated with respect in hospital. Disparities remained after adjusting for income, rurality, education, immigrant status and self-rated health for 25 of 39 measures. Conclusion Compared with the rest of the community, Australians with mental health conditions have additional challenges negotiating the health system, and are more likely to experience barriers to access to care across a wide range of measures. Understanding the extent to which people with mental health conditions experience barriers throughout the pathway to accessing care is crucial to inform care planning and delivery for this vulnerable group. Results may inform improvements in regular performance monitoring of disparities in access for people with mental health conditions. What is known about this topic? A stated national aim of the Equally Well National Consensus Statement is to improve monitoring of the physical health and well-being of people with mental health conditions through measures of service accessibility and people’s experiences of physical healthcare services. What does this paper add? This paper highlights areas in which health services are not providing equal access to overall care for people with mental health conditions. The analysis offers quantitative evidence of ‘red flag areas’ where people with mental health conditions are significantly more likely to experience barriers to access to care. What are the implications for practitioners? Systematic attention across the health system to making care more approachable and accessible for people with mental health conditions is needed. Practitioners may be engaged to discuss possible interventions to improve access disparities for people with mental health conditions.
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Ganchar, Alexey, Oleg Chernyavsky, Serhii Medynskyi, and Ivan Ganchar. "ESTIMATION OF SKILLS FORMATION OF SWIMMING AMONG THE STRONGEST SWIMMERS-STUDENTS AT THE XXX WORLD UNIVERSIADE IN NAPLES-2019." Science and Education 2019, no. 4 (April 2019): 40–46. http://dx.doi.org/10.24195/2414-4665-2019-4-5.
Abstract:
In this article the dynamics of the rating of command performances of strongest swimmers-students according to the results of receiving prize-winning among men and women, participants-winners of the final Universiade in Naples-2019. Swimmers-winners, who won gold medals for men (900 points) and women (881) in “points” equivalent almost indistinguishable (19 points). We determine the ranking of team performance of different countries in the representatives of different sex in the distances of sports swimming according to the results of winning the medals at the start of XXX World Universiade in Naples-2019. The authors' collective was studied: a) revealing the ranking in the performance of team performance of male and female swimmers at the start of the World Universiade-2019; b) introduction of the results of the study into the practice of physical education and sports in order to identify an objective rating of the success of the team performance of swimmers-students. In addition, professional interest is in studying the evaluation of swimmers' results, having won awards with gold, silver and bronze medals. The results of our study identified the unconditional leaders (top ten) of student swimming at the XXX World Universiade in Naples2019: USA-40 medals (17 men + 23 women), Japan-20 (9 men + 11 women), Russia-18 (15 men + 3 women), Italy-11 (5 men + 6 women), South Africa-6 (2 men + 4 women), United Kingdom-6 (2 men + 4 women), Australia-5 (2 men + 3 women), Brazil4 (3 men + 1 woman), Germany-3 (3 women), Sweden- 1 (men) medal. This trend is also seen among the award-winning silver medals (886 respectively, and 863 points, the difference-23 points) and received bronze medals (respectively 874 and 852 points, the difference-22 points). Thus, in the general summary table of the rating of teams-participants in Naples-2019, it should be included, not only the existing state of qualitative indexes of medals (gold, silver, bronze), but first of all quantitative indicators. Since the generalized gender differences (887 + 865 = 1752 – Average 876 points), allows to assess the advantages of achievement in points.
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Цигулева, Олеся Владимировна, and Светлана Ивановна Поздеева. "TRANSNATIONAL EDUCATIONAL MOBILITY IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN INTERNATIONAL REVIEW." Pedagogical Review, no. 6(40) (December 8, 2021): 140–45. http://dx.doi.org/10.23951/2307-6127-2021-6-140-145.
Abstract:
Анализируется опыт зарубежной высшей школы в формировании транснациональной образовательной мобильности. Представлены эмпирические результаты исследований зарубежных ученых, занимающихся данной проблематикой. На примере Великобритании, США, Китая, Австралии и стран Западной Европы показана роль образовательной мобильности в формировании транснационального человеческого и культурного капитала, влияние образовательной мобильности на проектирование индивидуального образовательного и карьерного маршрута человека. Транснациональная образовательная мобильность рассматривается в контексте формирования культурного капитала как приобретение международного опыта, расширение языковых и профессиональных знаний, развитие социальных и межкультурных навыков, способствующих созданию новой культурной идентичности и укреплению транснациональной идентификации личности. Подчеркивается, что с развитием транснациональной образовательной мобильности в научно-педагогической литературе появляется термин «международная профессиональная компетенция», связанный с формированием сквозных навыков (transversal skills) человека. An international review of the formation of transnational educational mobility in higher education abroad is analyzed. The research results by foreign scientists dealing with this empirical issue are presented. The role of educational mobility in the formation of transnational human and cultural capital, the influence of educational mobility on the formation of an individual educational and career path of a person is shown on the example of such countries as: Great Britain, USA, China, Australia and Western European countries. Transnational educational mobility is considered in the context of the formation of cultural capital as the acquisition of international experience, the expansion of linguistic and professional knowledge, the development of social and intercultural skills that contribute to the creation of a new cultural identity and the strengthening of transnational identity, personality identification. Giving rise to cosmopolitanism, person’s educational mobility contributes to the creation of a new cultural identity and transnational identification strengthening. A man who is able to see and understand intercultural differences, to solve intercultural problems, is able to form his identity in the context of intercultural and multicultural relations. It is emphasized that with the development of transnational educational mobility, the term “international professional competence” appears in the scientific and pedagogical literature, associated with the formation of transversal personality skills. Transversal skills are analyzed as basic skills, independent of a person’s professional qualifications and not tied to any particular profession, but are applicable to a wide range of situations in life. It is emphasized that the strengthening of cross-border educational mobility is observed not only in the public sector of higher education, but also in the private sector, which contributes to an increase in the number of educational institutions leading to the expansion of availability of higher education and obtaining various academic degrees and titles.
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Mathews, Paul W., Cathy Owen, Wayne Ramsey, Gerry Corrigan, Mark Bassett, and Johannes Wenzel. "Assessment of a peer review process among interns at an Australian hospital." Australian Health Review 34, no. 4 (2010): 499. http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/ah09838.
Abstract:
Purpose. This study considered how a peer review process could work in an Australian public hospital setting. Method. Up to 229 medical personnel completed an online performance assessment of 52 Junior Medical Officers (JMOs) during the last quarter of 2008. Results. Results indicated that the registrar was the most suitable person to assess interns, although other professionals, including interns themselves, were identified as capable of playing a role in a more holistic appraisal system. Significant sex differences were also found, which may be worthy of further study. Also, the affirmative rather than the formative aspect of the assessment results suggested that the criteria and questions posed in peer review be re-examined. Conclusion. A peer review process was able to be readily implemented in a large institution, and respondents were positive towards peer review generally as a valuable tool in the development of junior medical staff. What is known about the topic? The literature generally concurs that peer review is a useful tool in professional development and can provide a rounded view from diverse sources about a peer’s professional performance. It has been implemented in at least one Canadian medical facility as a mandatory process. What does this paper add? Our study identifies who is considered the most suitable peer(s) to assess interns, various substantive issues about peer review and about the process itself, and raises questions about the voluntary v. mandatory nature of peer review. It is the first study to trial peer review amongst interns in an Australian hospital. What are the implications for practitioners? That peer review is a suitable tool in professional development and generally supported in our study, suggesting that it could be implemented into Australian healthcare practice. However, education about the nature and value of peer review would be required amongst healthcare professionals, and the use of peer review could imply greater managerial engagement in medical practice. Peer review is a more effective assessment tool than that currently employed in many Australian hospitals.
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Stocks, Nigel P., Heather McElroy, Philip Ryan, and James Allan. "Statin prescribing in Australia: socioeconomic and sex differences." Medical Journal of Australia 180, no. 5 (March 2004): 229–31. http://dx.doi.org/10.5694/j.1326-5377.2004.tb05891.x.
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Foley, Debra L., Katherine I. Morley, Pamela A. F. Madden, Andrew C. Heath, John B. Whitfield, and Nicholas G. Martin. "Major Depression and the Metabolic Syndrome." Twin Research and Human Genetics 13, no. 4 (August 1, 2010): 347–58. http://dx.doi.org/10.1375/twin.13.4.347.
Abstract:
AbstractThe aim of this study is to characterize the relationship between major depression and the metabolic syndrome in a large community based sample of Australian men and women aged 26–90 years. A lifetime history of major depression was assessed by telephone interview following the DSM–III-R. A current history of metabolic syndrome was assessed following the United States National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP AP-III) guidelines 1 to 3 years later. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between depression and the metabolic syndrome, and its component criteria, controlling for age, sex and alcohol dependence. There was no association between a lifetime history of major depression and the presence of the metabolic syndrome. There was a weak association between depression and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol but not with other component criteria of the metabolic syndrome. Despite calls for interventions directed at depression to reduce the onset of the metabolic syndrome there are important failures to replicate in large samples such as this, no consensus regarding the threshold at which depression may pose a significant risk even allowing for heterogeneity across populations, and no consensus regarding confounders that may explain inter-study differences. The absence of any dosage effect of depression on the associated risk for the metabolic syndrome in other unselected samples does not support a direct causal relationship. The call for intervention studies on the basis of the currently published evidence base is unwarranted.
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Brown, Gwen. "Taking sex differences seriously." Academic Questions 18, no. 2 (June 2005): 85–88. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12129-005-1009-x.
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Caldwell, Tanya M., and Anthony F. Jorm. "Mental Health Nurses' Beliefs About Interventions for Schizophrenia and Depression: A Comparison with Psychiatrists and the Public." Australian & New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry 34, no. 4 (August 2000): 602–11. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/j.1440-1614.2000.00750.x.
Abstract:
Objective: The main objective of this paper was to investigate and compare mental health nurses' beliefs about interventions for schizophrenia and depression with those of psychiatrists and the public. Factors affecting nurses' beliefs were also investigated. Method: This research used methods employed in previous surveys of professional and public beliefs. A postal survey of 673 Australian mental health nurses was carried out. The survey was comprised of a vignette describing a person with either depression or schizophrenia. Participants rated whether particular medical, psychological and lifestyle interventions were helpful, harmful or neither. Factors examined included: nurses' age, sex, degree of contact with similar problems, work setting, level of highest qualification and whether their education was hospital-based or completed within the tertiary sector. Results: The nurses agreed with psychiatrists (but not the public) about the interventions most likely to be helpful, such as antidepressants for depression and antipsychotic medication for schizophrenia. However, there were many differences between nurses, psychiatrists and the public. Nurses were more likely than psychiatrists to believe that certain non-standard interventions such as vitamins, minerals and visiting a naturopath would be helpful. Nurses' beliefs tended to form a bridge between the attitudes of psychiatrists and the public for some of these non-standard interventions. Age, work setting and qualifications were related to nurses' intervention beliefs. Conclusions: Mental health practitioners need to be aware of a range of beliefs within mental health services. The acknowledgement of differing belief systems is important for high quality, integrated care.
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Fitzgerald, Robin, Paul Mazerolle, Alex R. Piquero, and Donna L. Ansara. "Exploring Sex Differences among Sentenced Juvenile Offenders in Australia." Justice Quarterly 29, no. 3 (June 2012): 420–47. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/07418825.2011.565361.
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KENNEDY, Amber, Beverley VOLLENHOVEN, Richard HISCOCK, Catharyn STERN, Susan WALKER, Jeanie CHEONG, Jon QUACH, et al. "School Age Developmental Outcomes of Children Conceived by IVF Compared with Controls: A Population Linkage Study." Fertility & Reproduction 04, no. 03n04 (September 2022): 137. http://dx.doi.org/10.1142/s2661318222740498.
Abstract:
Background: There has been increasing interest in assessing longer term developmental and health outcomes in IVF-conceived offspring compared with those born after natural conception. So far, the findings have been conflicting. The Australian Early Developmental Consensus (AEDC) assesses children in their first year of primary school across five domains; physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, and communication skills and general knowledge. Aim: To compare school entry (5-7 years of age) outcomes in IVF-conceived children in Victoria with naturally conceived controls. Method: We undertook a statewide data linkage study, with perinatal data (births 2005-2014) linked to data from major IVF providers in Victoria and the AEDC. Our approach to analysis included: complete case analysis, multiple imputation of missing data, consideration of clustering (siblings) and inverse probability weighted modeling to adjust for covariates. Our primary outcome was an AEDC score indicative of developmental vulnerability in two or more domains. We adjusted for the child’s age at assessment, sex, highest level of maternal education, maternal age, parity, SEIFA (Socio-Economic Indexes for Areas) quintile, language background other than English, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) status. Results: The linked dataset comprised 163,418 children, including 4,441 IVF-conceived children. The IVF conceived population had older, more highly educated mothers who lived in more affluent areas and were less likely to be from non-English speaking backgrounds or identify as ATSI. IVF-conceived children were less likely to be developmentally vulnerable, in both unadjusted (RR 0.59, 95%CI: 0.52-0.67, p<0.001) and adjusted analyses (aRR 0.72, 95%CI: 0.58-0.88, p<0.001). Conclusion: Children conceived by IVF were less likely to be developmentally vulnerable in their first year of schooling, compared with peers conceived naturally. Further research should aim to understand if similar patterns are seen in other education and health domains and the potential mechanisms for these differences.
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Sutherland, Margaret B. "Sex Differences in Education: an overview." Comparative Education 23, no. 1 (January 1987): 5–9. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/0305006870230102.
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Breslav, G. M., and B. I. Khasan. "Sex Differences and School Education Today." Russian Education & Society 35, no. 8 (August 1993): 76–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.2753/res1060-9393350876.
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Ohtsuka, Keis, Eric Bruton, Louisa Deluca, and Victoria Borg. "Sex Differences in Pathological Gambling Using Gaming Machines." Psychological Reports 80, no. 3 (June 1997): 1051–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.2466/pr0.1997.80.3.1051.
Abstract:
With recent introduction of poker machines in Australia, there have been claims of increases in the number of women with gambling-related problems. Research in the United States indicates, however, that men have a higher incidence of pathological gambling. The aims of this study were to ascertain among game machine users in a major city in Australia whether (a) more women than men exhibited symptoms of pathological gambling, (b) women reported higher guilt associated with their gambling, and (c) gamblers' self-assessment on several mood states was predictive of pathological gambling. A modified version of the South Oaks Gambling Screen was administered to 104 users of game machines (44 men, 60 women) sampled from patrons at gaming venues in Melbourne, Australia. Data indicated no significant sex difference in the proportion of pathological gamblers or in gambling-related guilt. Self-assessment of Happiness, Propensity for Boredom, and Loneliness, significantly predicted scores on the South Oaks Gambling Screen, with Unhappiness a significant independent predictor of pathological gambling. This may suggest that gambling acts to fill a need in the lives of unhappy people or that individuals who lack control over their gambling report higher unhappiness. Further research is needed to discover this relationship.
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Kennedy, Amber L., Beverley J. Vollenhoven, Richard J. Hiscock, Catharyn J. Stern, Susan P. Walker, Jeanie L. Y. Cheong, Jon L. Quach, et al. "School-age outcomes among IVF-conceived children: A population-wide cohort study." PLOS Medicine 20, no. 1 (January 24, 2023): e1004148. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1004148.
Abstract:
Background In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a common mode of conception. Understanding the long-term implications for these children is important. The aim of this study was to determine the causal effect of IVF conception on primary school-age childhood developmental and educational outcomes, compared with outcomes following spontaneous conception. Methods and findings Causal inference methods were used to analyse observational data in a way that emulates a target randomised clinical trial. The study cohort comprised statewide linked maternal and childhood administrative data. Participants included singleton infants conceived spontaneously or via IVF, born in Victoria, Australia between 2005 and 2014 and who had school-age developmental and educational outcomes assessed. The exposure examined was conception via IVF, with spontaneous conception the control condition. Two outcome measures were assessed. The first, childhood developmental vulnerability at school entry (age 4 to 6), was assessed using the Australian Early Developmental Census (AEDC) (n = 173,200) and defined as scoring <10th percentile in ≥2/5 developmental domains (physical health and wellbeing, social competence, emotional maturity, language and cognitive skills, communication skills, and general knowledge). The second, educational outcome at age 7 to 9, was assessed using National Assessment Program–Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) data (n = 342,311) and defined by overall z-score across 5 domains (grammar and punctuation, reading, writing, spelling, and numeracy). Inverse probability weighting with regression adjustment was used to estimate population average causal effects. The study included 412,713 children across the 2 outcome cohorts. Linked records were available for 4,697 IVF-conceived cases and 168,503 controls for AEDC, and 8,976 cases and 333,335 controls for NAPLAN. There was no causal effect of IVF-conception on the risk of developmental vulnerability at school-entry compared with spontaneously conceived children (AEDC metrics), with an adjusted risk difference of −0.3% (95% CI −3.7% to 3.1%) and an adjusted risk ratio of 0.97 (95% CI 0.77 to 1.25). At age 7 to 9 years, there was no causal effect of IVF-conception on the NAPLAN overall z-score, with an adjusted mean difference of 0.030 (95% CI −0.018 to 0.077) between IVF- and spontaneously conceived children. The models were adjusted for sex at birth, age at assessment, language background other than English, socioeconomic status, maternal age, parity, and education. Study limitations included the use of observational data, the potential for unmeasured confounding, the presence of missing data, and the necessary restriction of the cohort to children attending school. Conclusions In this analysis, under the given causal assumptions, the school-age developmental and educational outcomes for children conceived by IVF are equivalent to those of spontaneously conceived children. These findings provide important reassurance for current and prospective parents and for clinicians.