Publications from 2011

@article{RN14518,

title = {A holistic approach to education programs in thalassemia for a multi-ethnic population: consideration of perspectives, attitudes, and perceived needs},

author = {L P Wong and E George and J A Tan},

doi = {10.1007/s12687-011-0039-z},

issn = {1868-310x},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Community Genet},

volume = {2},

number = {2},

pages = {71-9},

abstract = {Hemoglobin disorders which include thalassemias are the most common heritable disorders. Effective treatment is available, and these disorders can be avoided as identification of carriers is achievable using simple hematological tests. An in-depth understanding of the awareness, attitudes, perceptions, and screening reservations towards thalassemia is necessary, as Malaysia has a multi-ethnic population with different religious beliefs. A total of 13 focus group discussions (70 participants) with members of the general lay public were conducted between November 2008 and January 2009. Lack of knowledge and understanding about thalassemia leads to general confusions over differences between thalassemia carriers and thalassemia major, inheritance patterns, and the physical and psychologically impact of the disorder in affected individuals and their families. Although most of the participants have not been tested for thalassemia, a large majority expressed willingness to be screened. Views on prenatal diagnosis and termination of fetuses with thalassemia major received mixed opinions from participants with different religions and practices. Perceived stigma and discrimination attached to being a carrier emerged as a vital topic in some group discussions where disparity in the answers exhibited differences in levels of participants' literacy and ethnic origins. The two most common needs identified from the discussion were information and screening facilities. Participants' interest in knowing the severity of the disease and assessing their risk of getting the disorder may imply the health belief model as a possible means of predicting thalassemia public screening services. Findings provide valuable insights for the development of more effective educational, screening, and prenatal diagnostic services in the multi-ethnic Asian society.},

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@article{RN14526,

title = {Attitudes toward menstruation, menstrual-related symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome among adolescent girls: a rural school-based survey},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1080/03630242.2011.574792},

issn = {0363-0242},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Women Health},

volume = {51},

number = {4},

pages = {340-64},

abstract = {Folk culture surrounding menstrual-related matters has considerable implications for symptom expression and treatment-seeking behavior. A cross-sectional survey of 1,295 rural adolescent girls aged 13 to 19 years was conducted between February 4 and April 16, 2009 to examine these associations. With a higher score indicating a more positive attitude toward menstruation, the mean attitude score was 3.84 (SD +/- 1.62) out of a maximum of six. No significant association was observed between the severity of menstrual symptoms and attitudes. Most (63.1%) of the participants identified themselves as having premenstrual symptoms, and 61.1% viewed premenstrual symptoms as a normal part of menstrual cycle. Participants with a higher severity of symptoms in the premenstrual (OR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01-1.10) and menstrual phase (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.07), were more likely to consult a physician for premenstrual symptoms, and having a divorced/separated parents was associated with a reduced odds of consulting a physician compared to those having parents that were married (OR 0.19, 95% CI 0.05-0.83). The findings imply the need for education to help adolescent girls manage menstrual symptoms and increase awareness of the benefit of treating them. Given that menstrual-related information was widely available from mothers, family, and social culture are potentially important in shaping good menstrual attitudes.},

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@article{RN14525,

title = {Attitudes towards dysmenorrhoea, impact and treatment seeking among adolescent girls: a rural school-based survey},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1111/j.1440-1584.2011.01213.x},

issn = {1038-5282},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Aust J Rural Health},

volume = {19},

number = {4},

pages = {218-23},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: Study aimed to determine the prevalence of dysmenorrhoea, its impact, and treatment-seeking behaviour of rural adolescent girls in Malaysia. PARTICIPANTS AND SETTING: Large cross-sectional study on 1295 adolescent girls (aged 13-19 years) from 16 public secondary schools in rural districts of Kelantan, Malaysia conducted between February 2009 and April 2009. RESULTS: Dysmenorrhoea was reported in 76.0% of the participants. Concentration at school (59.9%) and participation in social events (58.6%) have been most affected. Multivariate analysis shows that being in upper secondary level was the strongest predictor for poor concentration, absenteeism, and poor school grade due to dysmenorrhoea. In spite of its high prevalence and enormous impact on their lives, 76.1% believed that dysmenorrhoea is a normal part of the female menstrual cycle and only 14.8% sought medical treatment. The majority of adolescents obtained information from their mothers (62.3%) and peers (52.9%). CONCLUSION: The findings imply the need for educating adolescent girls on effective management of dysmenorrhoea. Education should be extended to parents and school peer leaders to address the reproductive health needs of adolescents.},

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@article{RN10519,

title = {Boundaries to the articulation of possible selves through social networking sites: the case of Facebook profilers' social connectedness},

author = {Sandra Zwier and Theo Araujo and Mark Boukes and Lotte Willemsen},

url = {http://ovidsp.ovid.com/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS\&CSC=Y\&NEWS=N\&PAGE=fulltext\&D=medl\&AN=21476838 http://ezproxy.lib.monash.edu.au/login?url=http://sfx.monash.edu.au:9003/monash2?sid=OVID:medline\&id=pmid:21476838\&id=doi:\&issn=2152-2723\&isbn=\&volume=14\&issue=10\&spage=571\&pages=571-6\&date=2011\&title=Cyberpsychology%2C+behavior+and+social+networking\&atitle=Boundaries+to+the+articulation+of+possible+selves+through+social+networking+sites%3A+the+case+of+Facebook+profilers%27+social+connectedness.\&aulast=Zwier\&pid=%3Cauthor%3EZwier+S%3BAraujo+T%3BBoukes+M%3BWillemsen+L%3C%2Fauthor%3E%3CAN%3E21476838%3C%2FAN%3E%3CDT%3EJournal+Article%3C%2FDT%3E},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Cyberpsychology, behavior and social networking},

volume = {14},

number = {10},

pages = {571-6},

abstract = {This study aims to contribute to an emerging literature that seeks to understand how identity markers on social networking sites (SNSs) shape interpersonal impressions, and particularly the boundaries that SNSs present for articulating unconstrained "hoped-for possible selves." An experiment employing mock-up Facebook profiles was conducted, showing that appearing with friends on a Facebook profile picture as well as increasingly higher number of Facebook friends strengthened perceptions of a profiler's hoped-for level of social connectedness. Excessive numbers of friends, however, weakened perceptions of a profiler's real-level social connectedness, particularly among participants with smaller social networks on Facebook themselves. The discussion focuses on when people come to find that reasonable boundaries of self-generated information on an SNS have been exceeded.},

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@article{RN14531,

title = {Breast cancer in a multi-ethnic Asian setting: results from the Singapore-Malaysia hospital-based breast cancer registry},

author = {N B Pathy and C H Yip and N A Taib and M Hartman and N Saxena and P Iau and A M Bulgiba and S C Lee and S E Lim and J E Wong and H M Verkooijen},

doi = {10.1016/j.breast.2011.01.015},

issn = {0960-9776},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Breast},

volume = {20 Suppl 2},

pages = {S75-80},

abstract = {Two hospital-based breast cancer databases (University Malaya Medical Center, Malaysia [n = 1513] and National University Hospital, Singapore [n = 2545]) were merged into a regional registry of breast cancer patients diagnosed between 1990 and 2007. A review of the data found 51% of patients diagnosed before the age of 50 years. and 72% percent of the women were Chinese followed by Malays (16%), Indians (8%), and other races (4%). Median tumor size at presentation was 26 mm and about 25% of patients presented with TNM stage III or IV disease. Most tumors were of ductal histology (87%). Fifty-seven percent of tumors were estrogen receptor positive and 40% were poorly differentiated. Of those patients who had surgery, 70% had mastectomy while 30% had breast conserving surgery. Overall, chemotherapy was administered to 56% of patients and hormonal treatment to 60%. Five-year overall survival was 82.5% in patients with TNM stage 0 to stage II cancer, and 30.2% in those with later stages.},

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pubstate = {published},

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@article{RN14517,

title = {Breast cancer prevention and control programs in Malaysia},

author = {M Dahlui and S Ramli and A M Bulgiba},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {12},

number = {6},

pages = {1631-4},

abstract = {Breast cancer is the most common cancer in Malaysian females. The National Cancer Registry in 2003 and 2006 reported that the age standardized incidence of breast cancer was 46.2 and 39.3 per 100,000 populations, respectively. With the cumulative risk at 5.0; a woman in Malaysia had a 1 in 20 chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime. The incidence of cancer in general, and for breast cancer specifically was highest in the Chinese, followed by Indians and Malays. Most of the patients with breast cancers presented at late stages (stage I: 15.45%, stage II: 46.9%, stage III: 22.2% and stage IV: 15.5%). The Healthy Lifestyles Campaign which started in the early nineties had created awareness on breast cancer and after a decade the effort was enhanced with the Breast Health Awareness program to promote breast self examination (BSE) to all women, to perform annual clinical breast examination (CBE) on women above 40 and mammogram on women above 50. The National Health Morbidity Survey in 2006 showed that the prevalence rate of 70.35% by any of three methods of breast screening; 57.1% by BSE, 51.8% by CBE and 7.6% by mammogram. The current screening policy for breast cancer focuses on CBE whereby all women at the age of 20 years and above must undergo breast examination by trained health care providers every 3 years for age between 20-39 years, and annually for age 40 and above. Several breast cancer preventive programs had been developed by various ministries in Malaysia; among which are the RM50 subsidy for mammogram by the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development and the SIPPS program (a call-recall system for women to do PAP smear and CBE) by the Ministry of Health. Measures to increase uptake of breast cancer screening and factors as to why women with breast cancer present late should be studied to assist in more development of policy on the prevention of breast cancer in Malaysia.},

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pubstate = {published},

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@article{RN10696,

title = {Can Facebook influence funding?},

author = {Paolo Zamboni},

url = {http://ovidsp.ovid.com/ovidweb.cgi?T=JS\&CSC=Y\&NEWS=N\&PAGE=fulltext\&D=medl\&AN=21614061 http://ezproxy.lib.monash.edu.au/login?url=http://sfx.monash.edu.au:9003/monash2?sid=OVID:medline\&id=pmid:21614061\&id=doi:\&issn=0028-0836\&isbn=\&volume=473\&issue=7348\&spage=452\&pages=452\&date=2011\&title=Nature\&atitle=Can+Facebook+influence+funding%3F.\&aulast=Zamboni\&pid=%3Cauthor%3EZamboni+P%3C%2Fauthor%3E%3CAN%3E21614061%3C%2FAN%3E%3CDT%3EComment%3C%2FDT%3E},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Nature},

volume = {473},

number = {7348},

pages = {452},

abstract = {(Extract) I would like to make it clear that I played no part in instigating a Facebook uprising over my research (Nature 472, 410\textendash411; 2011). I am not an activist but a scientist who has published 

27 peer-reviewed studies of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) and its 

relationship to multiple sclerosis in 18 interdisciplinary journals. This research was funded 

by the Italian government and banking foundations, and grants were peer-reviewed by scientific 

committees under the usual rules.I do not believe that Facebook can influence the diversion 

of funds to change research priorities or the judgement of the scientific community. 

CCSVI is a pathological condition first described in the literature two years ago. A Google Scholar search reveals that CCSVI has been cited more than 2,000 times in published scientific papers. Evidently, CCSVI is a hot topic \textemdash it is interesting precisely because it is controversial.},

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@article{RN15990,

title = {Cancer-behavior-coping in women with breast cancer: Effect of a cancer self-management program},

author = {S Y Loh and K Quek},

doi = {10.4103/2229-516x.91150},

issn = {2229-516X (Print) 

2229-516x},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Int J Appl Basic Med Res},

volume = {1},

number = {2},

pages = {84-8},

abstract = {OBJECTIVE: The Cancer Behavior Inventory (CBI), a measure of self-efficacy for coping with cancer, was used to examine the feasibility and impact of a self-management program for women with breast cancer. This controlled clinical trial was conducted on newly diagnosed breast cancer patients, using a time series, block design. Sixty-nine patients were allocated to receive four weekly sessions of the self-management training program, while 78 patients were allocated to the control (usual-care) group. RESULTS: A significant difference was found between the means of the experimental and the control group at post-test (T2; P=.01) and at follow-up (T3; P=.02). The multivariate analyses of the three repeated measures showed significant differences (P=.001; partial eta-squared = 0.092). Pair-wise comparison shows that the differences were significant between baseline (T1) measure and follow-up (T3) measure (P=.01), and between post-test (T2) and follow-up (T3) (P=.03). CONCLUSION: For women undergoing intervention, the cancer-specific self-efficacy as measured by the cancer-behavior-coping inventory showed improvement over time. The result demonstrated that the self-management program to improve self-care correlates significantly with coping behavior in cancer. A larger and longer study of this efficacy-enhancing intervention is warranted.},

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@article{RN14524,

title = {Chronic diseases, depressive symptoms and functional limitation amongst older people in rural Malaysia, a middle income developing country},

author = {N N Hairi and A Bulgiba and I Mudla and M A Said},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S009174351100288X/1-s2.0-S009174351100288X-main.pdf?_tid=ef1297d2-e139-11e5-bcd7-00000aab0f27\&acdnat=1457007644_c88a125b6ff8e21786b116d224a45355},

doi = {10.1016/j.ypmed.2011.07.020},

issn = {0091-7435},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Prev Med},

volume = {53},

number = {4-5},

pages = {343-6},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine prevalence and prevalence ratio of functional limitation amongst older people with combined chronic diseases and co-morbid depressive symptoms compared with older people with either chronic disease or depressive symptoms alone. METHODS: Data were analysed from a cross-sectional study of 765 people aged 60 years and over, conducted from 2007 to 2008 in Malaysia. Chronic diseases were self-reported, depressive symptoms were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale and functional limitation was assessed using the Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment Tool. RESULTS: A higher proportion of older people with combined chronic diseases and depressive symptoms reported having functional limitation (44.7%) compared with older people with chronic diseases alone (12.5%) and depressive symptoms alone (18.1%). Adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, cognitive status and living arrangements, chronic diseases were associated with functional limitation (PR 2.21, 95% CI 1.31, 3.72). Depressive symptoms were also associated with functional limitation (PR 2.07, 95% CI 1.56, 2.76). The prevalence ratio for functional limitation was much greater for combined chronic diseases and depressive symptoms (PR 4.09, 95% CI 2.23, 7.51). CONCLUSIONS: Older people with combined chronic diseases and depressive symptoms are more likely to have functional limitation than those with chronic disease or depressive symptoms alone.},

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pubstate = {published},

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@article{RN16000,

title = {Factors affecting estrogen receptor status in a multiracial Asian country: an analysis of 3557 cases},

author = {C H Yip and N B Pathy and C S Uiterwaal and N A Taib and G H Tan and K S Mun and W Y Choo and A Rhodes},

doi = {10.1016/j.breast.2011.02.004},

issn = {0960-9776},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Breast},

volume = {20 Suppl 2},

pages = {S60-4},

abstract = {Estrogen receptor (ER) positive rates in breast cancer may be influenced by grade, stage, age and race. This study reviews the ER positive rates over a 15-year period at the University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Data on ER status of 3557 patients from 1994 to 2008 was analyzed. ER status was determined by immunohistochemistry with a cut-off point of 10%. ER positivity increased by about 2% for every 5-year cohort, from 54.5% in 1994-1998 to 58.4% in 2004-2008. Ethnicity and grade were significantly associated with ER positivity rates: Malay women were found to have a higher risk of ER negative tumors compared with Chinese women. Grade 1 cancers were nine times more likely to be ER positive compared with grade 3 cancers. In summary, the proportion of ER positive cancers increased with each time period, and ethnicity and grade were independent factors that influenced ER positive rates.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN14523,

title = {Factors related to poor practice of Pap smear screening among secondary school teachers in Malaysia},

author = {F Abdullah and N A Aziz and T T Su},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {12},

number = {5},

pages = {1347-52},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: The Pap smear test has been regarded as a promising cervical screening tool since 1940s. Yet its importance has been overlooked by beneficiaries in Malaysia. This underlines the need to identify the prevalence of Pap smear practice and influencing factors towards the practice among educated working women. METHODS: A survey was conducted with 403 female teachers from 40 public secondary schools in Malaysia selected by cluster random sampling. Data were collected from January to March 2010 using a self-administered questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify the factors related to the Pap smear practice. RESULTS: The rate for participants who ever had Pap test was only 38% and poor practice of was significantly higher among: those with aged less than 35 years; those practicing hormonal contraceptive method; and individuals perceiving barriers to the Pap smear screening test. In contrast, the findings were significantly lower in women with longer duration of teaching service; higher income groups; ever pregnant; having chronic diseases; health insurance coverage; and who had perceived benefit of Pap smear screening. CONCLUSION: Barriers towards practicing Pap smear exist even among educated career women. Tailor-made health promotion and education on cervical cancer and the benefit of Pap smear screening are essential to change the behavior of the study population.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN15997,

title = {Grandilodines A-C, biologically active indole alkaloids from Kopsia grandifolia},

author = {W S Yap and C Y Gan and Y Y Low and Y M Choo and T Etoh and M Hayashi and K Komiyama and T S Kam},

doi = {10.1021/np200008g},

issn = {0163-3864},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Nat Prod},

volume = {74},

number = {5},

pages = {1309-12},

abstract = {Three new indole alkaloids (1-3), named grandilodines A-C, and five known ones were obtained from the Malayan Kopsia grandifolia. The structures were established using NMR and MS analyses and, in the case of 1 and 2, were confirmed by X-ray diffraction analyses. Alkaloids 1, 3, and lapidilectine B (8) were found to reverse multidrug resistance in vincristine-resistant KB cells.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN1987,

title = {Hand-arm vibration syndrome among a group of construction workers in Malaysia},

author = {Ting Anselm Su and Victor Chee Wai Hoe and Retneswari Masilamani and Awang Bulgiba Awang Mahmud},

url = {http://oem.bmj.com/content/68/1/58.abstract},

doi = {10.1136/oem.2009.052373},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Occupational and Environmental Medicine},

volume = {68},

number = {1},

pages = {58-63},

abstract = {Objectives 

To determine the extent of hand transmitted vibration exposure problems, particularly hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), among construction workers in Malaysia. 

 

Methods 

A cross-sectional study was conducted on a construction site in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 243 workers were recruited. Questionnaire interviews and hand examinations were administered to 194 respondents. Vibration magnitudes for concrete breakers, drills and grinders were measured using a 3-axis accelerometer. Clinical outcomes were compared and analysed according to vibration exposure status. 

 Results Vibration total values for concrete breakers, impact drills and grinders were 10.02 ms−2, 7.72 ms−2 and 5.29 ms−2, respectively. The mean 8 h time-weighted hand transmitted vibration exposure, A(8), among subjects on current and previous construction sites was 7.52 (SD 2.68) ms−2 and 9.21 (SD 2.48) ms−2, respectively. Finger tingling, finger numbness, musculoskeletal problems of the neck, finger coldness, abnormal Phalen's test and abnormal light touch sensation were significantly more common in the high vibration exposure group (n=139) than the low\textendashmoderate vibration exposure group (n=54). Mean total lifetime vibration dose among exposed subjects was 15.2 (SD 3.2) m2 h3 s−4 (ln scale). HAVS prevalence was 18% and the prevalence ratio of stage 1 and higher disease in the high vibration exposure group versus the low\textendashmoderate vibration exposure group was 4.86 (95% CI 1.19 to 19.80). 

 

Conclusions 

Hand transmitted vibration is a recognisable problem in tropical countries including Malaysia. The current study has identified clinical symptoms and signs suggesting HAVS among construction workers exposed to hand transmitted vibration in a warm environment.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN16011,

title = {Hand-arm vibration syndrome among a group of construction workers in Malaysia},

author = {T A Su and V C Hoe and R Masilamani and A B Awang Mahmud},

doi = {10.1136/oem.2009.052373},

issn = {1351-0711},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Occup Environ Med},

volume = {68},

number = {1},

pages = {58-63},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: To determine the extent of hand transmitted vibration exposure problems, particularly hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS), among construction workers in Malaysia. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a construction site in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 243 workers were recruited. Questionnaire interviews and hand examinations were administered to 194 respondents. Vibration magnitudes for concrete breakers, drills and grinders were measured using a 3-axis accelerometer. Clinical outcomes were compared and analysed according to vibration exposure status. RESULTS: Vibration total values for concrete breakers, impact drills and grinders were 10.02 ms(-2), 7.72 ms(-2) and 5.29ms(-2), respectively. The mean 8 h time-weighted hand transmitted vibration exposure, A(8), among subjects on current and previous construction sites was 7.52 (SD 2.68) ms(-2) and 9.21 (SD 2.48) ms(-2), respectively. Finger tingling, finger numbness, musculoskeletal problems of the neck, finger coldness, abnormal Phalen's test and abnormal light touch sensation were significantly more common in the high vibration exposure group (n=139) than the low-moderate vibration exposure group (n=54). Mean total lifetime vibration dose among exposed subjects was 15.2 (SD 3.2) m(2) h(3) s(-4) (ln scale). HAVS prevalence was 18% and the prevalence ratio of stage 1 and higher disease in the high vibration exposure group versus the low-moderate vibration exposure group was 4.86 (95% CI 1.19 to 19.80). CONCLUSIONS: Hand transmitted vibration is a recognisable problem in tropical countries including Malaysia. The current study has identified clinical symptoms and signs suggesting HAVS among construction workers exposed to hand transmitted vibration in a warm environment.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14522,

title = {High prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency and its association with obesity and metabolic syndrome among Malay adults in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia},

author = {F M Moy and A Bulgiba},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2458-11-735},

issn = {1471-2458},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {BMC Public Health},

volume = {11},

pages = {735},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Vitamin D status, as indicated by 25-hydroxyvitamin D is inversely associated with adiposity, glucose homeostasis, lipid profiles, and blood pressure along with its classic role in calcium homeostasis and bone metabolism. It is also shown to be inversely associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases in western populations. However, evidence from the Asian population is limited. Therefore, we aim to study the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency (\< 50 nmol/L) and the association of 25-hydroxyvitamin D with metabolic risk factors among an existing Malay cohort in Kuala Lumpur. METHODS: This is an analytical cross sectional study. A total of 380 subjects were sampled and their vitamins D status (25-hydroxyvitamin D), fasting blood glucose, full lipid profile were assessed using venous blood. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, weight, height and waist circumference were measured following standard protocols. Socio-demographic data such as sex, age, smoking status etc were also collected. Data was analysed using t-test, chi-square test, General Linear Model and multiple logistic regression. RESULTS: Females made up 58% of the sample. The mean age of respondents was 48.5 (SD 5.2) years. Females had significantly lower mean Vitamin D levels (36.2; 95% CI: 34.5, 38.0 nmol/L) compared to males (56.2; 95% CI: 53.2, 59.2 nmol/L). Approximately 41% and 87% of males and females respectively had insufficient (\< 50 nmol/L) levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (p \< 0.001). The prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome for the whole sample was 38.4 (95% CI: 33.5, 43.3)%. In the multivariate model (adjusted for age, sex, abdominal obesity, HDL-cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure), insufficient Vitamin D status was significantly associated with 1-year age increments (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.88, 0.98), being female (OR: 8.68; 95% CI: 5.08, 14.83) and abdominal obesity (OR: 2.57; 95% CI: 1.51, 4.39). Respondents with insufficient vitamin D were found to have higher odds of having Metabolic Syndrome (OR: 1.73; 95% CI: 1.02, 2.92) after adjusting for age and sex. CONCLUSIONS: Our results highlight the high prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency among Malay adults in Kuala Lumpur. Vitamin D insufficiency is independently associated with younger age, female sex and greater abdominal obesity. Vitamin D insufficiency is also associated with Metabolic Syndrome.},

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pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14636,

title = {Impact of breast surgery on survival in women presenting with metastatic breast cancer},

author = {N B Pathy and H M Verkooijen and N A Taib and M Hartman and C H Yip},

url = {http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/bjs.7650/abstract},

doi = {10.1002/bjs.7650},

issn = {0007-1323},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Br J Surg},

volume = {98},

number = {11},

pages = {1566-72},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Advanced breast cancer is common in less affluent parts of Asia. The impact of breast surgery on survival of women presenting with metastatic breast cancer in this setting was investigated. METHODS: Women presenting with metastatic breast cancer at the initial diagnosis at the University Malaya Medical Centre (Malaysia) between 1993 and 2008 were included in the study. Mortality of patients who had primary breast surgery was compared with that of those without surgery, and adjusted for possible confounders by means of a propensity score. RESULTS: Of 3689 patients, 375 (10.2 per cent) presented with metastatic disease. One hundred and thirty-nine patients (37.1 per cent) underwent surgery. A total of 330 deaths occurred during 6814 person-months of follow-up. The 2-year survival rate was 21.2 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 15.9 to 26.5) per cent in women who did not have surgery and 46.3 (37.7 to 54.9) per cent in those who had breast surgery. Breast surgery was associated with a 28 per cent lower risk of death (hazard ratio 0.72, 95 per cent c.i. 0.56 to 0.94), after adjustment for patient and tumour characteristics, metastatic profile and treatment. CONCLUSION: Surgical resection of the primary breast tumour was independently associated with a survival advantage in patients presenting with metastatic breast cancer.},

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pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

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@article{RN14529,

title = {Is breast self examination (BSE) still relevant? A study on BSE performance among female staff of University of Malaya},

author = {M Dahlui and C Ng and N Al-Sadat and S Ismail and A Bulgiba},

issn = {1513-7368 (Print) 

1513-7368},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {12},

number = {2},

pages = {369-72},

abstract = {OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to determine the rate of breast self examination (BSE) among the female staff of University of Malaya and to determine the role of BSE in detecting breast abnormalities. METHODS: A total of 1598 questionnaires were posted to all female staff, aged 35 years and above. Their knowledge on breast cancer, practice of BSE and detection rate of breast abnormality as confirmed by CBE was determined. RESULTS: The response rate for this study was 45 percent (714 respondents). The rate of respondents having awareness on breast cancer was 98.7 percent. Eighty four percent (598) of the respondents had performed BSE in their lifetime. However, in only 41% was it regular at the recommended time. Forty seven percent (334) had undergone CBE at least once in a lifetime but only 26% (185) had CBE at least once in the past 3 years, while 23% (165) had had a mammogram. There was a significant relationship between CBE and BSE whereby those who had CBE were twice more likely to do BSE. Nineteen percent (84 respondents) of those who did BSE claimed they had detected a breast lump. Of these, 87% (73) had gone for CBE and all were confirmed as such. CONCLUSION: BSE is still relevant as a screening tool of breast cancer since those who detect breast lump by BSE will most probably go for further check up. CBE should be done to all women, especially those at highest risk of breast cancer, to encourage and train for BSE.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15999,

title = {Occupational pressure-targeting organisational factors to ameliorate occupational dysfunction},

author = {S Y Loh and W Than and K F Quek},

doi = {10.1007/s10926-011-9287-3},

issn = {1053-0487},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Occup Rehabil},

volume = {21},

number = {4},

pages = {493-500},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Chronic pressure at work has debilitating impact on healthcare employers (e.g. reduced productivity, high costs, poor patient care) and on female healthcare employees (e.g. sickness, dysfunction). This paper highlights relationship at work as the key occupational source of work-stress which is organisational in nature. METHODS: A cross-sectional study (n = 230) was conducted using the Pressure Management Inventory on several female dominated health professions within a large public hospital. Analysis of variance was used to show relationship between sources and outcome of pressure. Linear regressions were used to predict which sources of pressure (IV) was linked to the outcomes of occupational pressure (DV). RESULTS: The number one source of occupational pressure is relationships at work (i.e. with supervisors), and not workload. 'Relationship' is also the key predictor of several negative outcomes of pressure at work. Analysis of variance showed significant differences in two sources of pressures, i.e. Workload (P = 0.04) and Home-work balance (P = 0.03). CONCLUSION: This paper provides insights into the occupational pressure of women health professionals by highlighting the organisational sources of pressure and the implications for preventing occupational dysfunction secondary to stress at work.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN11819,

title = {Predictors of Handgrip Strength among the Free Living Elderly in Rural Pahang, Malaysia},

author = {F Moy and E Chang and K Kee},

issn = {2251-6085 (Print) 

2251-6085 (Linking)},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Iran J Public Health},

volume = {40},

number = {4},

pages = {44-53},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Reduced handgrip strength is an aging process that significantly influences the living activities of elderly. It is linked to premature mortality, disability and other health complications among elderly. Therefore, we aim to determine the associated predictors with handgrip strength among the free living elderly in Malaysia. METHODS: This was a cross sectional study conducted in a rural state in Malaysia. A total of 434 elderly individuals performed handgrip assessment. Socio-demographic characteristics, medical conditions, occupational history, functional ability (ADL) and depression (GDS) were enquired. Anthropometric measurements (weight and height) were also obtained. RESULTS: Majority of the respondents were Malays with mean age of 67.9 +/- 6.3 years. Maximum handgrip strength of males and females were 28.8+/-9.2 kg and 18.9+/-6.9 kg respectively (P\<0.05). The aborigines had significantly lower handgrip strength (P\<0.05) compared to Malays, Chinese and Indians. Handgrip strength was positively correlated (P\<0.05) with weight, height and ADL, while negatively associated (P\<0.05) with GDS for both gender. In the multivariate linear regression analysis; weight, height and race significantly predicted handgrip strength among both male and female elderly after adjustment for all potential confounders. However, GDS and ADL were only found to significantly predict handgrip strength among the male elderly; while age was only significant among the females. CONCLUSION: Our sample population has significantly lower handgrip strength than the Western counterpart. Weight, height and race significantly predict handgrip strength among both male and female elderly. GDS, ADL are only found to be significant in males while age was only significant among the females.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14528,

title = {Premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea: urban-rural and multiethnic differences in perception, impacts, and treatment seeking},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1016/j.jpag.2011.03.009},

issn = {1083-3188},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol},

volume = {24},

number = {5},

pages = {272-7},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Attitudes toward menarche and menstruation are largely influenced by sociological, cultural, and family environmental factors. Recognizing the influential effects that these factors might have on shaping adolescents' attitudes is crucial in designing a more effective means of transmitting health information. AIMS: This study aimed to gather an in-depth understanding of perceptions, impacts, and treatment seeking on menstruation-related issues from an ethnically mixed group of rural and urban girls. METHODOLOGY: In total, 27 focus group discussions (172 participants) were conducted between November 2008 and April 2009. Participants were adolescent girls aged 13-19 years, recruited from 7 public secondary schools in the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and 4 public secondary schools from the rural districts of Kelantan, in Malaysia. RESULTS: Many participants revealed that they were not given or had not received detailed information about the mechanism or physiology of menstruation prior to its onset. Thus, many described the onset of menarche as shocking, an event for which they were unprepared, and which has had a tremendous impact on their emotions. More positive acceptance of menarche was reported in the urban than with the rural groups. Despite the high prevalence of premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea, participants across urban-rural and ethnic groups perceived the problems as completely normal, hence they relied on self-care methods and did not want to seek professional treatment. More rural girls compared to urban girls were embarrassed to talk to their mothers or consult their physicians regarding menstruation-related problems. CONCLUSION: Menstruation-related education would have a positive impact in improving adolescent girls' knowledge and in nurturing a positive attitude toward menstruation-related matters at home, at school, and in the community.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14639,

title = {Prevalence and risk factors of latent tuberculosis infection among health care workers in Malaysia},

author = {S Rafiza and K G Rampal and A Tahir},

url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3033828/pdf/1471-2334-11-19.pdf},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2334-11-19},

issn = {1471-2334},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {BMC Infect Dis},

volume = {11},

pages = {19},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Health care workers are exposed to patients with tuberculosis and are at risk of nosocomial infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with latent tuberculosis infection among health care workers in Malaysia and also to evaluate the agreement between Quantiferon TB Gold in tube test with Tuberculin Skin Test. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted at four randomly selected hospitals in the Klang Valley from December 2008 to May 2009. Self administered questionnaire was used to obtain information on health care workers and possible risk factors. The response rate for this study was 90.8% with 954 respondents completed the questionnaire and were tested with Quantiferon TB Gold in tube for latent tuberculosis infection. Agreement between Quantiferon TB Gold in tube and Tuberculin Skin Test was assessed among 95 health care workers who consented to undergo both tests. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection among health care workers was 10.6% (CI: 8.6%; 12.6%). Factors significantly associated with latent tuberculosis infection were aged 35 years and older [9.49 (CI: 2.22; 40.50)], history of living in the same house with close family members or friends who had active tuberculosis [8.69 (CI: 3.00; 25.18)], worked as a nurse [4.65 (CI: 1.10; 19.65)] and being male [3.70 (CI: 1.36; 10.02)]. Agreement between Quantiferon TB Gold in tube test and tuberculin skin test at cut-off points of 10 mm and 15 mm was 50.5% and 82.1% respectively. However, Kappa-agreement was poor for both cut-off points. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection in Malaysia was relatively low for an intermediate TB burden country. We could not comment on the occupational risk of latent tuberculosis infection among health care worker compared to the general population as there were no prevalence data available for latent tuberculosis infection in the general population. Kappa agreement between Quantiferon TB gold in-tube and tuberculin skin test was poor.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14530,

title = {Public perceptions and attitudes toward thalassaemia: Influencing factors in a multi-racial population},

author = {L P Wong and E George and J A Tan},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2458-11-193},

issn = {1471-2458},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {BMC Public Health},

volume = {11},

pages = {193},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Thalassaemia is a common public health problem in Malaysia and about 4.5 to 6% of the Malays and Chinese are carriers of this genetic disorder. The major forms of thalassaemia result in death in utero of affected foetuses (alpha-thalassaemia) or life-long blood transfusions for survival in beta-thalassaemia. This study, the first nationwide population based survey of thalassaemia in Malaysia, aimed to determine differences in public awareness, perceptions and attitudes toward thalassaemia in the multi-racial population in Malaysia. METHODS: A cross-sectional computer-assisted telephone interview survey of a representative sample of multi-racial Malaysians aged 18 years and above was conducted between July and December 2009. RESULTS: Of a total of 3723 responding households, 2846 (76.4%) have heard of thalassaemia. Mean knowledge score was 11.85 (SD +/- 4.03), out of a maximum of 21, with higher scores indicating better knowledge. Statistically significant differences (P \< 0.05) in total knowledge score by age groups, education attainment, employment status, and average household income were observed. Although the majority expressed very positive attitudes toward screening for thalassaemia, only 13.6% of married participants interviewed have been screened for thalassaemia. The majority (63.4%) were unsupportive of selective termination of foetuses diagnosed with thalassaemia major. CONCLUSION: Study shows that carrier and premarital screening programs for thalassaemia may be more effective and culturally acceptable in the reduction of pregnancies with thalassaemia major. The findings provide insights into culturally congruent educational interventions to reach out diverse socio-demographic and ethnic communities to increase knowledge and cultivate positive attitudes toward prevention of thalassaemia.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN15982,

title = {Quality of life in breast cancer survivors: 2 years post self-management intervention},

author = {S Y Loh and S L Chew and S Y Lee and K F Quek},

issn = {1513-7368},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Asian Pac J Cancer Prev},

volume = {12},

number = {6},

pages = {1497-501},

abstract = {INTRODUCTION: Today, cancer survivors have an added new role to self manage living with the medical, emotional and role tasks that can affect their quality of life (QOL). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the QOL of women two years after participating in a self-management intervention program. METHOD: The clinical trial was conducted at University Malaya Medical Centre between 2006 and 2008. The experimental group underwent a 4-week self management program, and the control group underwent usual care. Two years after the intervention, questionnaires were randomly posted out to the participants. RESULTS: A total of 51 questionnaires returned. There were statistically differences between groups in psychological, self-care, mobility and participation aspects in PIPP (p\<0.05). The experimental group reported having higher confidence to live with breast cancer compared to control group (p\<0.05). There were significant between-group changes in anxiety scores at T2 (immediately after intervention) to T4 (two years later), and the differences in anxiety scores within groups between time point T2 and T4 were significantly different (p\<0.05). CONCLUSION: The SAMA program is potentially capable to serve as a model intervention for successful transition to survivorship following breast cancer treatment. The program needs to be further tested for efficacy in a larger trial involving more diverse populations of women completing breast cancer treatment.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14527,

title = {Socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics of illegal motorcycle street racers in Malaysia},

author = {L P Wong},

doi = {10.1186/1471-2458-11-446},

issn = {1471-2458},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {BMC Public Health},

volume = {11},

pages = {446},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: This study sought to understand the factors associated with street racing among the illegal motorcycle racers in Malaysia or known as the "Mat Rempit". METHODS: Street outreach interviewer-administered surveys were conducted from June 2008 to January 2009 in this multi-state study. RESULTS: A total of 2022 participants were surveyed, the mean +/- SD age of the participants was 20.5 +/- 3.4 years (age range: 12 to 35 years). Mean duration of street racing was 2.65(SD +/- 1.77) years (range: 2 months to 12 years), with 50.1% and 35.8% reporting stunt riding and alcohol drinking while racing, respectively. With regard to risk behaviours, cigarette smoking was highly prevalent among the study participants (78.3%), followed by alcohol drinking (27.8%) and recreational drug use (18.8%). Participants scored high on the masculinity scale (15.7 +/- 4.0 out of 21.0). The results of the logistic regression analysis showed that socio-demographic variables, risk behaviour and masculinity scores were associated with racing frequency. CONCLUSION: Given these associations, tailoring family-centered interventions to the needs of the lower socio-economic groups and interventions recognizing the negative consequences of health risk behaviours related to street racing as an expression of traditional masculinity should be emphasized.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14513,

title = {Stigmatization and discrimination towards people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS by the general public in Malaysia},

author = {L P Wong and A R Syuhada},

issn = {0125-1562 (Print) 

0125-1562},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health},

volume = {42},

number = {5},

pages = {1119-29},

abstract = {Globally, HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discriminatory attitudes deter the effectiveness of HIV prevention and care programs. This study investigated the general public's perceptions about HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination towards people living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in order to understand the root of HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discriminatory attitudes. Study was carried out using qualitative focus group discussions (FGD). An interview guide with semi-structured questions was used. Participants were members of the public in Malaysia. Purposive sampling was adopted for recruitment of participants. A total 14 focus group discussions (n = 74) was carried out between March and July 2008. HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination towards people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) was profound. Key factors affecting discriminatory attitudes included high-risk taking behavior, individuals related to stigmatized identities, sources of HIV infection, stage of the disease, and relationship with an infected person. Other factors that influence attitudes toward PLWHA include ethnicity and urban-rural locality. Malay participants were less likely than other ethnic groups to perceive no stigmatization if their spouses were HIV positive. HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination were stronger among participants in rural settings. The differences indicate attitudes toward PLWHA are influenced by cultural differences.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN16010,

title = {Survival and prognostic factors of motor neuron disease in a multi-ethnic Asian population},

author = {K J Goh and S Tian and N Shahrizaila and C W Ng and C T Tan},

doi = {10.3109/17482968.2010.527986},

issn = {1471-180x},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Amyotroph Lateral Scler},

volume = {12},

number = {2},

pages = {124-9},

abstract = {Our objective was to determine the survival and prognostic factors of motor neuron disease (MND) in a multi-ethnic cohort of Malaysian patients. All patients seen at a university medical centre between January 2000 and December 2009 had their case records reviewed for demographic, clinical and follow-up data. Mortality data, if unavailable from records, were obtained by telephone interview of relatives or from the national mortality registry. Of the 73 patients, 64.4% were Chinese, 19.2% Malays and 16.4% Indians. Male: female ratio was 1.43: 1. Mean age at onset was 51.5 + 11.3 years. Onset was spinal in 75.3% and bulbar in 24.7% of the patients; 94.5% were ALS and 5.5% were progressive muscular atrophy (PMA). Overall median survival was 44.9 + 5.8 months. Ethnic Indians had shorter interval from symptom onset to diagnosis and shorter median survival compared to non-Indians. On Cox proportional hazards analysis, poor prognostic factors were bulbar onset, shorter interval from symptom onset to diagnosis and worse functional score at presentation. In conclusion, age of onset and median survival duration are similar to previous reports in Asians. Clinical features and prognostic factors are similar to other populations. In our cohort, ethnic Indians had more rapid disease course accounting for their shorter survival.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14119,

title = {Validation of a food frequency questionnaire to assess dietary cholesterol, total fat and different types of fat intakes among Malay adults},

author = {J Y Eng and F M Moy},

issn = {0964-7058 (Print) 

0964-7058},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {Asia Pac J Clin Nutr},

volume = {20},

number = {4},

pages = {639-45},

abstract = {BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular diseases are the major cause of death in Malaysia. Evidence shows that dietary fat intake is one of the important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, studies assessing the association of fatty acids and risk of cardiovascular diseases in Malaysia are scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to develop and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) assessing total fat and different types of fat among Malay adults in Malaysia. METHODS: A 100 food item FFQ focused on dietary cholesterol, total fat, saturated fat, monounsaturated fat and polyunsaturated fat intake for the past one month was developed and validated against 3-day dietary record (DR) among 151 Malay participants. Validity was assessed through the reliability and agreement of two methods. Intra-class correlation (ICC) coefficients were used to assess reliability; while regression analysis and classification into categories were used to assess agreement of the two methods. RESULTS: The mean nutrient intakes tended to be higher in FFQ compared to DR. The developed FFQ showed excellent reliability with ICC coefficients ranging from 0.92-0.98. Regression analysis demonstrated an acceptable agreement between FFQ and DR for total fat and different types of fat intakes. There were a relatively high proportion of subjects being correctly classified (into same or adjacent category) and only a small number of grossly misclassification for total energy, fat, dietary cholesterol, saturated fat and unsaturated fat occurred. CONCLUSION: This FFQ is valid in assessing absolute total energy, total fat and types of fat intakes among Malay adults.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14519,

title = {Victimization experiences of adolescents in Malaysia},

author = {W Y Choo and M P Dunne and M J Marret and M Fleming and Y L Wong},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S1054139X11001534/1-s2.0-S1054139X11001534-main.pdf?_tid=8e574c68-e12e-11e5-a293-00000aab0f6c\&acdnat=1457002757_0e48183729dba7bacd67d0a22af8377c},

doi = {10.1016/j.jadohealth.2011.04.020},

issn = {1054-139x},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Adolesc Health},

volume = {49},

number = {6},

pages = {627-34},

abstract = {PURPOSE: There has been little community-based research regarding multiple-type victimization experiences of young people in Asia, and none in Malaysia. This study aimed to estimate prevalence, explore gender differences, as well as describe typical perpetrators and family and social risk factors among Malaysian adolescents. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of 1,870 students was conducted in 20 randomly selected secondary schools in Selangor state (mean age: 16 years; 58.8% female). The questionnaire included items on individual, family, and social background and different types of victimization experiences in childhood. RESULTS: Emotional and physical types of victimization were most common. A significant proportion of adolescents (22.1%) were exposed to more than one type, with 3% reporting all four types. Compared with females, males reported more physical, emotional, and sexual victimization. The excess of sexual victimization among boys was due to higher exposure to noncontact events, whereas prevalence of forced intercourse was equal for both genders (3.0%). Although adult male perpetrators predominate, female adults and peers of both genders also contribute substantially. Low quality of parent-child relationships and poor school and neighborhood environments had the strongest associations with victimization. Family structure (parental divorce, presence of step-parent or single parent, or household size), parental drug use, and rural/urban location were not influential in this sample. CONCLUSION: This study extends the analysis of multiple-type victimization to a Malaysian population. Although some personal, familial, and social factors correlate with those found in western nations, there are cross-cultural differences, especially with regard to the nature of sexual violence based on gender and the influence of family structure.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}

@article{RN14637,

title = {Vitamin D status and its associated factors of free living Malay adults in a tropical country, Malaysia},

author = {F M Moy},

url = {http://ac.els-cdn.com/S1011134411001266/1-s2.0-S1011134411001266-main.pdf?_tid=fb9146c0-673b-11e5-b8c3-00000aab0f02\&acdnat=1443594482_54974591166038b4647734e95262eca9},

doi = {10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2011.05.002},

issn = {1011-1344},

year  = {2011},

date = {2011-01-01},

journal = {J Photochem Photobiol B},

volume = {104},

number = {3},

pages = {444-8},

abstract = {Vitamin D status is influenced by sun exposure, geographic latitude, daily outdoor activities, body surface exposed to sunlight and dietary intakes. Malaysia, is sunny all year round. However, the vitamin D status of this population especially among the healthy and free living adults is not known. Therefore a study of vitamin D status and associated factors was initiated among an existing Malay cohort in Kuala Lumpur. A total of 380 subjects were sampled to have their vitamin D status assessed using 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). A short questionnaire enquiring socio-demographic characteristics, exposure to sunlight and clothing style was administered. Their mean age was 48.5+/-5.2years and the mean 25(OH)D for males and females were 56.2+/-18.9nmol/L and 36.2+/-13.4nmol/L respectively. There were significant positive correlation for sun exposure score (r=0.27, p\<0.001) and negative correlation for sun protection score (r=-0.41, p\<0.001) with 25(OH)D levels. In the logistic regression model, females (OR=2.93; 95% CI: 1.17, 7.31), BMI (1.1; 1.03, 1.20) and sun exposure score (0.998; 0.996, 0.999) were significantly associated with vitamin D status as represented by 25(OH)D levels. Our findings show that obesity, lifestyle behaviours and clothing style are directly associated with our participants especially females' low vitamin D status.},

keywords = {},

pubstate = {published},

tppubtype = {article}

}