OAR@UM Community:

Food for thought : palatable eponyms from Pediatrics

2020-06-22T11:04:00Z

Title: Food for thought : palatable eponyms from Pediatrics Authors: Kipersztok, Lisa; Masukume, Gwinyai Abstract: Food-related medical terms are frequently used in the field of pediatrics for the definition, recognition and diagnosis of disease. Almost 40 food-related medical eponyms used in Pediatrics have been ‘cherry picked’ and described by the authors. Two of these terms have been illustrated. Culinary medical analogies allow healthcare providers to easily interpret the variety of sensations experienced during medical decision-making, providing a better taste for interpreting pathology discovered on physical exam. Despite some misgivings, food-related medical terms make medical education more appetizing and allow for rapid diagnosis of classic presentations.

Orations relating to the conferment of Doctor of Science honoris causa to Professor William Bannister

2021-03-08T12:36:37Z

Title: Orations relating to the conferment of Doctor of Science honoris causa to Professor William Bannister Authors: LaFerla, Godfrey Abstract: We are gathered here today to recognise a distinguished international scientist and alumnus of this University and it is indeed my honour and privilege to present Professor William Bannister for the award of the degree of Doctor of Science honoris causa. His career spans almost six decades and during this time he has helped shape numerous individual careers, whole Departments and our understanding of several branches of Physiology.

Suicide rates in Maltese Islands (1955-2009) analysed in European context using WHO data

2020-05-28T09:20:05Z

Title: Suicide rates in Maltese Islands (1955-2009) analysed in European context using WHO data Authors: Helema, Samuli; Holopainen, Jari; Partonen, Timo Abstract: Aim: To calculate the suicide rates (for males and females) in Malta and other European countries with long series of suicide mortality as recorded in the WHO (World Health Organization) database, and compare the Maltese suicide rates with European rates. Method: Suicide rates were computed from the WHO database as rates (suicides per 100,000 persons) using the reported suicide and population counts in Malta and ten other European countries for a common period 1955-2009. Suicide rates were age standardized following the WHO recommendations. These calculations were carried out separately for both sexes. Results: Compared to other European counties, the suicide rates (both male and female) in Malta have remained at considerably low level as calculated over the full period. Maltese suicide rates have however multiplied since the 1980s. European data exhibit clear decrease in suicide rates towards the present consistently in several countries. Malta is the only European country showing its highest suicide rates during the 2000s. Conclusions: Although the suicide rates in Malta remain at considerably low level, they have exhibited a notable increase towards the present, whereas the European suicide rates are in decline. Becoming aware of this fact and the issue may help in building a suicide prevention programme to mitigate the situation.

The attitudes, knowledge and practices of Maltese family doctors in disease prevention and health promotion

2021-03-16T14:46:02Z

Title: The attitudes, knowledge and practices of Maltese family doctors in disease prevention and health promotion Authors: Pace, Lynn; Sammut, Mario R.; Gauci, Charmaine Abstract: Introduction: Family doctors are in a unique position to advocate health promotion and disease prevention, though it is known that this is not always given its due importance due to various reasons. Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Maltese family doctors in health promotion and disease prevention. The results of the study were compared with a similar study in 2000. Methodology: A validated questionnaire was sent in 2011 to all Maltese general practitioners (GPs) and GP trainees. The results were analysed statistically. A focus group was conducted to discuss the results and develop a set of recommendations. Results: An improvement was seen in health promotion practice since 2000. Family doctors look after their own health better. However, they have difficulties regarding which prevention guidelines they should follow. Time constraints remain the biggest obstacle to promoting health. GPs who are involved in post- graduate teaching activities find it easier to promote health (p<0.05), while doctors working in both private and public settings find it most difficult (p<0.05). GPs who smoke find it harder to advise on smoking cessation (p<0.05), while doctors who are obese find it more difficult to recommend exercise (p<0.05). Conclusions and recommendations: Health promotion practice by family doctors is on the increase, yet there is clearly room for enhancement of their service. Web-based training, lectures and seminars would help family doctors to enhance their knowledge. Flyers, posters and video-clips in waiting areas could increase patient awareness on healthy lifestyles.