5+ A Day® - Key Messages
Eat five or more handfuls of colourful fruit and vegetables every day for better health, taste and variety. Colourful fruit and vegetables contain many of the vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals (fight-o-chemicals) that the body needs to maintain good health and energy.
http://www.5aday.co.nz/5aday.html?id=272
Selected books - NZNO Library
These books can be borrowed by members free of charge, for a period of 4 weeks.
1. Code green: Money-driven hospitals and the dismantling of nursing
By Dana Beth Weinberg with a foreword by Suzanne Gordon
Abstract: Through a careful look at the effects of the restructuring strategies chosen and implemented by Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the author examines management's efforts to balance service and survival. By showing the effects of hospital restructuring on nurses' ability to plan, evaluate, and deliver excellent care, Weinberg provides a stinging indictment of standard industry practices that underestimate the contribution nurses make both to hospitals and to patient care.
2. Housing & Health: Research, policy and innovation
edited by Philippa Howden-Chapman
Published Steele Roberts 2004
Abstract: This book extends the papers presented at the Housing and Health Research Day, a 2003 forum on housing research and policy in NZ.
3. Juggling acts: How parents working non-standard hours arrange care for their pre-school children
A families Commission Report. September 2008
Abstract: This study focuses on how parents working outside the normal Monday to Friday, 8.00am to 5.00pm working week, manage the care of their pre-school-aged children. Most parents have to juggle their time so they can fulfill their family responsibilities and commitments outside their home, especially their work. the parents that are interviewed highlighted that working non-standard hours adds another level of complexity to this juggling act. The type of work they did meant they were sometimes sleep deprived, had less predictability in their week and were working anti-social hours.
4. Women's health: A handbook
By Susan McDonald & Christine Thompson
Published Elsevier Australia 2005
Abstract: This handbook provides concise information and definitions of particular conditions, diseases and issues confronted by women of all ages and ethnic backgrounds. Designed as a first reference point for students and health professionals, it also includes additional patient education resources for use in practice
Articles on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
5. The Influence of Social Involvement, Neighborhood Aesthetics, and Community Garden Participation on Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
By Litt, Jill S.et al. American Journal of Public Health, Aug 2011, Vol. 101 Issue 8: p1466-1473
Abstract: We considered the relationship between an urban adult population's fruit and vegetable consumption and several selected social and psychological processes, beneficial aesthetic experiences, and garden participation.
Methods. We conducted a population-based survey representing 436 residents across 58 block groups in Denver, Colorado, from 2006 to 2007. We used multilevel statistical models to evaluate the survey data.
Results. Neighborhood aesthetics, social involvement, and community garden participation were significantly associated with fruit and vegetable intake. Community gardeners consumed fruits and vegetables 5.7 times per day, compared with home gardeners (4.6 times per day) and nongardeners (3.9 times per day). Moreover, 56% of community gardeners met national recommendations to consume fruits and vegetables at least 5 times per day, compared with 37% of home gardeners and 25% of nongardeners.
Conclusions. Our study results shed light on neighborhood processes that affect food-related behaviors and provides insights about the potential of community gardens to affect these behaviors. The qualities intrinsic to community gardens make them a unique intervention that can narrow the divide between people and the places where food is grown and increase local opportunities to eat better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
6. Green Leafy Vegetables May Reduce Your Diabetes Risk
Tufts University Health & Nutrition Letter, Nov 2010, Vol. 28 Issue 9: p1-26.
Abstract: The article presents information on a study related to reduce risk of type 2 diabetes. It states that consumption of green leafy vegetables helps in lowering the level of diabetes. According to the study, green leafy vegetables showed a benefit of consuming greater quantities of broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and cauliflower. Vegetables also help in prevention of chronic disease because of their antioxidant content. These are good in magnesium, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat. INSET: Eating Your Vegetables--by the Numbers..
7.Socioeconomic indicators and frequency of traditional food, junk food, and fruit and vegetable consumption amongst Inuit adults in the Canadian Arctic
By Hopping, B. N.et al. Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics, Oct 2010 Supplement, Vol. 23: p51-58
Abstract: Increasing consumption of non-nutrient-dense foods (NNDF), decreasing consumption of traditional foods (TF) and low consumption of fruit and vegetables (FV) may contribute to increasing chronic disease rates amongst Inuit. The present study aimed to assess the daily frequency and socioeconomic and demographic factors influencing consumption of TF, FV and NNDF amongst Inuit adults in Nunavut, Canada.
Methods: Using a cross-sectional study design and random household sampling in three communities in Nunavut, a food frequency questionnaire developed for the population was used to assess frequency of NNDF, TF and FV consumption amongst Inuit adults. Socioeconomic status (SES) was assessed by education level, ownership of items in working condition, and whether or not people in the household were employed or on income support. Mean frequencies of daily consumption were compared across gender and age groups, and associations with socioeconomic indicators were analysed using logistic regression.
Results: Two hundred and eleven participants (36 men, 175 women; mean (standard deviation) ages 42.1 (15.0) and 42.2 (13.2) years, respectively; response rate 69–93%) completed the study. Mean frequencies of consumption for NNDF, TF and FV were 6.3, 1.9 and 1.6 times per day, respectively. On average, participants =50 years consumed NNDF ( P = 0.003) and FV ( P = 0.01) more frequently and TF ( P = 0.01) less frequently than participants >50 years. Education was positively associated with FV consumption and negatively associated with TF consumption. Households on income support were more likely to consume TF and NNDF.
Conclusions: These results support the hypothesis that the nutrition transition taking place amongst Inuit in Nunavut results in elevated consumption of NNDF compared with TF and FV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
8. Neighbourhood deprivation and the price and availability of fruit and vegetables in Scotland
By Cummins, S.et al. Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics, Oct 2010, Vol. 23 Issue 5: p494-501
Abstract: Previous research has suggested that fruits and vegetables are more expensive and less readily available in more deprived communities. However, this evidence is mainly based on small samples drawn from specific communities often located in urban settings and thus is not generalisable to national contexts. The present study explores the influence of neighbourhood deprivation and local retail structure on the price and availability of fruit and vegetables in a sample of areas representing the diversity of urban–rural environments across Scotland, UK.
Methods: A sample of 310 stores located in 10 diverse areas of Scotland was surveyed and data on the price and availability of a basket of 15 fruit and vegetable items were collected. The data were analysed to identify the influence of store type and neighbourhood deprivation on the price and availability of fruits and vegetables.
Results: Neighbourhood deprivation and store type did not significantly predict the price of a basket of fruit and vegetables within the sample, although baskets did decrease in price as store size increased. The highest prices were found in the smallest stores located in the most deprived areas. Availability of fruit and vegetables is lower in small shops located within deprived neighbourhoods compared to similar shops in affluent areas. Overall, availability increases with increasing store size.
Conclusions: Availability of fruit and vegetables significantly varies by neighbourhood deprivation in small stores. Policies aimed at promoting sales of fruit and vegetable in these outlets may benefit residents in deprived areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
9. Low-Income African American and Non-Hispanic White Mothers' Self-Efficacy, “Picky Eater” Perception, and Toddler Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
By Horodynski, Mildred A.et al. Public Health Nursing, Sep/Oct 2010, Vol. 27 Issue 5: p408-417
Abstract: To examine whether and how toddlers' vegetable and fruit consumption is associated with maternal vegetable and fruit consumption, mothers' perceptions of toddlers as “picky eaters,” maternal efficacy, and sociodemographic characteristics of the family.
Design and Sample: A cross-sectional survey. One hundred and ninety-nine African American and 200 Non-Hispanic White low-income, mother-toddler dyads enrolled in 8 Early Head Start programs in a Midwestern state.
Measures: Mothers completed the Feeding Self-Efficacy Scale, Toddler-Parent Mealtime Behavior Questionnaire, and Mothers' and Toddlers' Food Frequency Questionnaires. Data were analyzed using linear and logistic regression models.
Results: Toddlers were less likely to consume vegetables 4 or more times a week if their mothers: viewed them as “picky eaters” (OR: 2.5), did not consume vegetables 4 or more times a week themselves (OR: 10.1), and were African American (OR: 2.2). Toddlers were less likely to consume fruits 4 or more times a week if their mothers: viewed them as “picky eaters” (OR: 1.6) and did not consume fruit 4 or more times a week (OR: 9.9) themselves.
Conclusions: Health professionals need to consider mothers' own consumption of fruits and vegetables when developing strategies to increase toddler consumption of fruits and vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
10. Vegetables, but Not Pickled Vegetables, Are Negatively Associated With the Risk of Breast Cancer
By Hyejin Yu et al. Nutrition & Cancer, May/Jun2010, Vol. 62 Issue 4: p443-453
Abstract: This study investigated the association between pickled vegetable consumption and the risk of breast cancer using a validated food frequency questionnaire. A total of 358 patients with breast cancer who were matched to 360 healthy controls by age (using a 5-yr age distribution) were recruited from the National Cancer Center in South Korea. After adjusting for nondietary risk factors, total vegetable intake was inversely associated with risk of breast cancer. However, unlike nonpickled vegetables, pickled vegetable intake and its proportion relative to total vegetables were positively associated with the risk of breast cancer, and this association was more profound and consistent when pickled vegetable intake was considered as a proportion relative to total vegetables (odds ratio [OR] = 6.24, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.55-10.97; P for trend <0.001 for highest vs. lowest quartiles of intake) than as the absolute consumed amount (OR = 2.47, 95% CI = 1.45-4.21; P for trend = 0.015 for highest vs. lowest quartiles of intake). These results suggest that not only the amount of total vegetable intake but also the amounts of different types of vegetable (i.e., pickled or nonpickled) and their proportions relative to total vegetables are significantly associated with the risk of breast cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
11. A Randomized Clinical Trial Evaluating Online Interventions to Improve Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
By Alexander, Gwen L.et al. American Journal of Public Health, Feb 2010, Vol. 100 Issue 2: p319-326
Abstract: We assessed change in fruit and vegetable intake in a population-based sample, comparing an online untailored program (arm 1) with a tailored behavioral intervention (arm 2) and with a tailored behavioral intervention plus motivational interviewing — based counseling via e-mail (arm 3).
Methods. We conducted a randomized controlled intervention trial, enrolling members aged 21 to 65 years from 5 health plans in Seattle, Washington; Denver, Colorado; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Detroit, Michigan; and Atlanta, Georgia. Participants reported fruit and vegetable intake at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months. We assessed mean change in fruit and vegetable servings per day at 12 months after baseline, using a validated self-report fruit and vegetable food frequency questionnaire.
Results. Of 2540 trial participants, 80% were followed up at 12 months. Overall baseline mean fruit and vegetable intake was 4.4 servings per day. Average servings increased by more than 2 servings across all study arms (P<.001), with the greatest increase (+2.8 servings) among participants of arm 3 (P=.05, compared with control). Overall program satisfaction was high.
Conclusions. This online nutritional intervention was well received, convenient, easy to disseminate, and associated with sustained dietary change. Such programs have promise as population-based dietary interventions. [Am J Public Health. 2010;100:319-326. doi:10.2105/AJPH.2008.154468) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR].
Journals - Table of Contents
12. From New England Journal of Medicine, October 27, 2011 Vol. 365 No. 17
12A. Evaluating Rivaroxaban for Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation — Regulatory Considerations
12B. Health Care's Role in Deficit Reduction — Guiding Principles
12C. Individual Responsibility or a Policy Solution — Cap and Trade for the U.S. Diet?
12D. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines — The Best Recipe for Health?
12E. Perspective Roundtable: The Constitutionality of the Individual Mandate
12F. Genomic Medicine: Genomics and the Multifactorial Nature of Human Autoimmune Disease
12G. Giant Condyloma Acuminatum of Buschke and Löwenstein
12H. Human Papillomavirus Lesions of the Oral Cavity
New Zealand Election News
13. Five Public Election Forums – ‘Political Speed Dating’
Tuesday 8 November 8, 7-9pm. Kelston Community Centre, cnr Great North and Awaroa Rds. MC’d by Jeremy Elwood
Wednesday 9 November, 5.30pm-7.30pm - St John’s on Willis St, Wellington. MC’d by Ian Harcourt
Wednesday 9 November, 7-9pm. Lindisfarne Community Centre, cnr Lindisfarne & Miller Streets. MC’d by Darren Ludlow
Tuesday 15 November, 7-9pm. Trades Hall, 147 Great North Rd, Grey Lynn. MC’d by Michele A’Court
Wednesday 16 November, 5-7pm. YWCA, 28 Pembroke St, Hamilton. MC’d by Jeremy Elwood
Members of unions and community organisations will be speaking about their experiences and asking party spokespeople to respond to their questions on:
WELFARE, INEQUALITY AND A LIVING WAGE -- PUBLIC SERVICES, HEALTH AND EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION -- DISABLED PEOPLE’S ISSUES -- CARING WORK -- ACC
Gold coin koha, light refreshments available
MMP stall on site; open space for questions from the floor
For more information or to register, contact election.campaign@psa.org.nz
Visit the Facebook page for this event
Conferences
14. 10th Annual Information Management Summit
Sharing lessons on IM & KM projects, trends, strategies and usability
Focus on case studies from Christchurch:
- Setting up CERA's information requirements
- Developing processes and standards for large scale projects
- Disaster preparation for IM: What has Christchurch taught us?
Date: 13 & 14 February 2012
Venue: Intercontinental Hotel, Wellington
More information: http://www.conferenz.co.nz/conferences/information-management-summit
15. Stress & Wellness in the Workplace
This concise one day forum will feature case studies on:
•Running a stress audit
•Measuring the success of your wellness plan
•Raising awareness of stress and wellness in your organisation
•Flexible workplaces
Date: 1 December 2011
Venue: Wellington Town Hall
More information: http://www.brightstar.co.nz/conferences/stress-wellness-workplace
16. 26th Annual Industrial & Employment Relations Summit
Date: 13 & 14 March 2012
Venue: Crowne Plaza, Auckland
More information: http://www.conferenz.co.nz/content/brochures/2011/CE096.pdf
News - National
17. Prime Minister 'misled public over health cuts'
Stuff - 2 Nov 2011
A leading injury rehabilitation specialist has lashed out at comments made by Prime Minister John Key, saying he has misled the public over cuts made to the health system.
Rehabilitation medicine consultant physician Jurriaan de Groot said he was left outraged at a statement made by Mr Key in a televised leaders debate that only administrative jobs had been cut from the public health service.
http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/5894154/Prime-Minister-misled-public-over-health-cuts
18. 'Shortcomings' in care of med student
Friday November 04, 2011 - ONE News
The coroner investigating the death of a 22-year-old man from meningococcal C has called for an urgent review of a publicly-funded vaccination programme for the disease. Coroner Brandt Shortland also recommended that health boards around the country update screening processes to aid detection.
http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/shortcomings-in-care-med-student-4502471
19. Auckland Hospital inept, says grieving dad
By Martin Johnston 5:30 AM Friday Nov 4, 2011
Fourth-year medical student who died of meningococcal C disease was left waiting more than twice as long as he should have been for his initial doctor assessment at Auckland City Hospital. And Zachary Gravatt's vital signs were not recorded as regularly as they should have been, coroner Brandt Shortland says in inquest findings issued today
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10763778
20. Hamilton's homeless - struggling to give them help
Waikato Times - 7 Nov 2011
Its the middle of the day in Hamilton. People rush on by – busy running errands on their lunch break. But Lindsay Evans sleeps.
The rain has cleared and the sun is shining, providing a brief opportunity for a nap. He can't sleep at night – it's just too dangerous, he tells the Waikato Times. Mr Evans is one of Hamilton's growing number of homeless people – a situation which is predicted to get worse as unemployment continues to rise. In 2007 it was estimated there were up to 80 homeless men in Hamilton – but numbers fluctuate frequently
http://www.stuff.co.nz/waikato-times/news/5919199/Hamiltons-homeless-struggling-to-give-them-help
News - International
21. Forever young? A way to counteract part of the process of growing old
The economist - Nov 5th 2011
BIOLOGISTS have made a lot of progress in understanding ageing. They have not, however, been able to do much about slowing it down. Particular versions of certain genes have been shown to prolong life, but that is no help to those who do not have them. A piece of work reported in this week’s Nature by Darren Baker of the Mayo Clinic, in Minnesota, though, describes an extraordinary result that points to a way the process might be ameliorated. Dr Baker has shown—in mice, at least—that ageing body cells not only suffer themselves, but also have adverse effects on otherwise healthy cells around them. More significantly, he has shown that if such ageing cells are selectively destroyed, these adverse effects go away.
http://www.economist.com/node/21536539
22. Sitting around could be waiting for cancer to strike say researchers
November 6, 2011
A new analysis reveals that more than 90,000 new cancer cases a year in the United States may be due to physical inactivity and prolonged periods of sitting. The researchers presented their findings at the annual conference of the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) in Washington, D.C., citing about 49,000 cases of breast cancer and 43,000 of colon cancer from over 200 studies worldwide.
http://www.news-medical.net/news/20111106/Sitting-around-could-be-waiting-for-cancer-to-strike-say-researchers.aspx