The properties of three critical elements in the human diet are discussed. In the first section, the functions of sodium in the body and in the diet are considered. The relationship between sodium and hypertension is explored, and recommendations from professional health groups on the sodium consumption are presented. In the second section, the…

Discusses appropriate steps to be taken in a day care setting to minimize the known risks associated with cytomegalovirus (CMV). Explains what CMV is; why people should worry about CMV; how it is spread; and how it can be treated and prevented. Suggests a number of hygiene practices for use in day care centers. (RWB)

Summarizes health hazards associated with air pollution, highlighting the difficulty in establishing acceptable thresholds of exposure. Respiratory disease, asthma, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other problems are addressed. Indicates that a wide range of effects from any one chemical exists and that there are differences in sensitivity to…

The stress and illness paradigm is expanded by empirically testing social interest as a personality variable influencing somatic health. Examines stress using an instrument that measures daily hassles. Compares the usefulness of this measure to the life experiences methodology. Findings related to these variables are not consistent with previous…

Explains what asbestos is, how it can be identified, where it has been used in educational facilities, the health hazards, government regulation, how it can be removed, and lists information sources. (MLF)

Role playing situations in which the tracing of sexual contacts, advising a sexual contact to be examined for a venereal disease, and reducing the risk of contracting a venereal disease raise specific questions which can be answered in class. Three specific situations are provided which demonstrate how best to handle sensitive problems. (JN)

An instructional approach to pathogenic microbiology appropriate for dental medicine, which was developed by the University of Texas, is described. This approach is perceived by the students as relevant to their needs, and it increases the instructor's awareness to emphasize the oral aspects of the infectious diseases. (Author/MLW)

Cystic Fibrosis and its effects on children are described as well as one child's means of coping with a chronic illness such as this in a school setting. (JMF)

Reports on a movement conducted by social workers to decrease the infection of the Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome by changing human behavior through public education. Stresses that the focus is to draw attention to behavior modification. (RT)

Since children with symptomatic HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection show a variety of neurodevelopmental impairments including mental retardation and motor abnormalities as well as a variety of clinical courses, rehabilitative services must be established to meet the complex needs of this growing population. (Author/DB)

Since adults with developmental disabilities may be particularly vulnerable to the acquisition of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection, service providers need to consider educational and ethical issues. The use of advisory committees and strong antidiscrimination measures may be needed to protect such persons. (Author/DB)

The mother of a child deafened by spinal meningitis in infancy discusses her emotional response to the diagnosis, including initial shock, guilt, and anger, followed by acceptance and constructive action. Early intervention services which center on family services and the importance of good communication between professionals and parents are…

A public health approach was used to eliminate pinworm from a system of community residential settings for individuals with developmental disabilities. The approach involved screening and treatment of staff members and clients living and working in close proximity to index cases, and prophylactically treating many clients and staff based on…

Describes a case study of the Tuskegee Syphilis project to help demonstrate the use of the case study method in instruction. This is one of a series of articles written to stimulate interest in and discussion about the use of the case study method in teaching undergraduate-level science. (ZWH)

The study compared the diagnoses determined by 200 adult autopsies performed in 1968 and 200 autopsies 20 years later. Analysis indicated few changes in variety of case material despite declining autopsy rates and a changing racial mix of patients. Recommendations for maximizing the teaching impact of each autopsy are offered. (Author/DB)