This booklet provides an overview of the Medicaid Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment program (EPSDT). In five brief sections the origins, operations, concepts, functions, and questions and answers about EPSDT are covered. Section I emphasizes that the EPSDT is a step toward a comprehensive health care system that combines…

The criteria most appropriate for assessing school health programs are discussed, and the need for such evaluation in the light of pressure from public opinion is emphasized. (JD)

According to Rall, director of NIEHS, the agency is supporting environmental research in the areas of occupational health, epidemiological, carcinogenic and biochemical toxicology, air pollution, food additives and nutrition. Rall's concern is that environmentalists have become sidetracked by the problems of esthetics and wildlife toxicity and…

This report on Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) offers information on: (1) the medical definition of AIDS; (2) signs and symptoms; (3) the present situtation regarding the number of cases of AIDS and how the disease is transmitted; (4) how to protect oneself from AIDS; (5) what behavior is safe; and (6) what is currently understood about…

This paper summarizes the major advances achieved by research in the fields of infectious diseases and immunizations during the 1970s, and delineates directions for future research in these fields. (Author/MP)

A survey is presented of recently published periodical literature in the field of vaccine-preventable diseases. Information is provided on writings about: (1) measles; (2) rubella; (3) influenza; (4) diphtheria-pertussis-tetanus; and (5) other vaccine-preventable diseases. For each disease general information is covered, as well as clinical and…

The events leading up to the present polio vaccination procedures and policies are presented. This short history is then compared to the swine flu vaccination program. (MA)

Some children in American schools have known and unknown communicable diseases, including herpes, cytomegalovirus, AIDS, mononucleosis, pinworms, and hepatitis. This article examines major public health issues, school responsibility, preventative measures (like basic hygiene), and the need for more effective community education programs. A disease…

Describes certain elements which can affect the fetus and the developing infant. These elements include toxins, lead poisoning, alcohol, smoking, and drugs (both legal and illegal). (Author/DB)

Reviews measures of dental health in children and the evidence on child dental health. Although children's dental health has improved over the past two decades, many poor children do not receive necessary dental health services, and reasons for this failure are summarized. (SLD)

Terrorist acts and the fear of terrorism have become a part of everyday life in the early 21st century. Among the threats most feared is bioterrorism, including the intentional release of smallpox. With the invasion of Iraq and toppling of the Saddam Hussein regime, acute bioterrorism fears have abated; however, an ongoing threat remains. This…

This report summarizes the latest edition of national guidelines that have been a cornerstone of nutrition policies and programs in Canada for almost 50 years. The guidelines for healthy eating are as follows: enjoy a variety of foods; emphasize cereals, breads, other grain products, vegetables, and fruits; choose low-fat dairy products, lean…

This document presents witnesses' testimonies and additional information from the Senate hearing held in Miami, Florida to examine the issue of preventive health services, focusing on risk reduction and health promotion programs for the elderly. The goal of the hearing was to examine efforts to identify people with high risks of developing a…