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Cedars-Sinai heart transplantation tip sheet

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Heart Institute found that pre-transplant smoking increases the risk of non-fatal cardiac events, while homeless donors are associated with higher complications and poor outcomes. Donor demographics also play a role in transplant survival rates, with males receiving opposite-gender hearts having worse outcomes.

Study finds significant number of kids experience family homelessness

A new study by UCLA and RAND Corp. researchers found that 7% of fifth-graders and their families have experienced homelessness, while African American children are more likely to suffer from mental health problems. The study's findings suggest a significant association between family homelessness and emotional, behavioral, and developm...

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAmerican Journal of Public Health·DateJul 27, 2009

Homelessness is not just a housing problem

A systematic review found that homeless people in the US, UK, mainland Europe, and Australia have higher rates of mental health problems than the general population. The editorial argues that 'imaginative and collaborative solutions' are needed to address these complex needs.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 22, 2008

Higher rates of mental illness among the homeless in Western countries

A systematic review and meta-analysis found that homeless people in Western countries experience substantially higher rates of mental health problems compared to the general population. The prevalence of serious mental disorders was found to be raised, with notable increases in alcohol and drug abuse, as well as psychosis.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateDec 1, 2008

Is tobacco use a disease?

Researchers propose alternative strategies to combat tobacco use, focusing on vulnerable populations such as homeless individuals, Aboriginal people, and those with mental illness. New approaches aim to better understand the underlying factors hindering population-based interventions.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateOct 20, 2008

Unstable housing status increases the risk of HIV transmission

Research highlights correlation between unstable housing and higher likelihood of HIV transmission; stable housing linked to reduced risk behaviors and improved healthcare outcomes. Findings challenge prevailing models and suggest housing as a key target for intervention to combat the AIDS epidemic.

SourceSpringer·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateNov 19, 2007

Poor health care access common among youth leaving foster system

A recent study found that foster youth who leave the system are more likely to experience homelessness and have unstable housing situations, leading to higher rates of uninsuredness and unmet medical needs. Approximately half of emancipated participants were still in the foster care system, highlighting the need for continued support.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateOct 1, 2007

'Closing the front door' on homelessness

A two-pronged approach is showing success in preventing and ending homelessness by helping those currently homeless while closing the front door on homelessness. The special issue outlines innovative strategies for specific groups at high risk, including veterans, individuals with substance use and mental health conditions, and vulnera...

SourceSpringer·JournalThe Journal of Primary Prevention·DateJul 23, 2007

U of M researchers study homeless people's attitudes and concerns about death and end-of-life care

Homeless individuals express strong concerns about the type of care they would receive when dying and after death. They advocate for increased advance care planning and compassionate treatment by healthcare providers. The study emphasizes the need to address end-of-life care as a priority for this underserved population.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateMar 26, 2007

Pregnancy, not high-risk behavior, predictor of STD testing among newly homeless youth

A new study published in AIDS and Behavior found that pregnancy, rather than high-risk behavior, was the primary predictor of STD testing among newly homeless youth. The study, conducted at UCLA, surveyed 261 homeless youth aged 12-20 and found a 32% STD rate among those who had received an STD test in the past three months.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalAIDS and Behavior·DateFeb 17, 2006

Exposure to homeless people increases sympathetic public attitudes

A study published in the American Sociological Review found that exposure to homeless people can increase sympathetic attitudes towards homelessness. The researchers examined how contact between domiciled and homeless individuals affected views on homelessness, finding that all four forms of exposure promote sympathetic attitudes.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Sociological Review·DateMar 22, 2004

Homeless children have high rates of asthma

A study of 740 homeless children in NYC found that 26.9% had a prior diagnosis of asthma and 12.9% reported symptoms consistent with moderate or severe persistent asthma. The authors suggest that high levels of exposure to adverse psychological factors contribute to the severity and undertreatment of asthma in homeless children.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine·DateMar 1, 2004

Crucial advice for lone parents - new help on way

Researchers from Cardiff University are conducting a £70,000 study to understand the advice needs of lone parents, who often struggle with income, housing, and childcare support. The study aims to identify barriers to access and advice for these families, shedding light on crucial issues that require attention.

Community activism helps curb homelessness

A recent study found that community activism has a positive impact on the lives of mentally ill homeless individuals. The research, which tracked over 2,500 participants in 18 US towns and cities, revealed that those living in areas with high levels of community engagement were more likely to achieve stable housing.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalHealth Services Research·DateAug 1, 2001

Insured homeless people report less difficulty accessing health care, according to UCSF researchers

A study published in JAMA found that insured homeless people are more likely to access outpatient care and adhere to medication regimens than their uninsured counterparts. The researchers identified factors associated with healthcare use, including sociodemographic characteristics, physical health, mental health, and substance abuse.

Health of the homeless

A study of homeless people in Toronto shelters found that 72% had difficulties managing their diabetes due to factors like shelter diet and medication logistics. The authors recommend improving care by establishing secure areas for insulin administration and assessing shelter meals.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJul 24, 2000

UCSF study finds cash incentive improves adherence rates for TB prevention therapy among San Francisco homeless

A UCSF study found that offering a small cash incentive to homeless adults improved their adherence rates for TB prevention therapy, compared to traditional methods. The research involved over 100 participants and found that those who received the monetary incentive completed treatment at nearly double the rate of others.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMar 16, 2000

Crack Addicts Travel Long Downward Spiral

African-American crack addicts often had traumatic childhoods marked by physical and sexual abuse, leading to unstable adult lives. The study's findings suggest that these individuals may gravitate towards drug dealing as a means of support due to unemployment and unstable employment.

SourcePenn State·JournalContemporary Drug Problems·DateAug 24, 1998

Anthropology News Tips From Johns Hopkins

Hopkins professors Sidney Mintz, Katherine Verdery, Donald Carter, Laury Oaks, and Felicity Northcott share their research on various anthropology topics, including the complex global economy of food, cultural identity in diaspora communities, the transformation of socialist systems, nuclear cleanup efforts, Ireland's abortion debate, ...