Waste Municipal Service and Informal Recycling Sector in Fast-Growing Asian Cities: Co-Existence, Opposition or Integration?

Free full text http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9276/6/4/70/htm.

Abstract: Despite being generally poorly recognized by public authorities, informal recycling remains nevertheless a major component in the waste sector, which questions the legitimacy of the official waste arrangements. A look at the current transformation in Hanoi (Vietnam), Delhi (India) and Surabaya (Indonesia) allows us to understand the socio-technical aspects of infrastructural choices in the management of waste generated in fast-growing Asian cities. The three cases present similar traditional recycling practices yet contrasted (non-) regulation within their waste policies. From the co-existence of a municipal waste management service with a traditional informal recycling sector, to an opposition between both, there is also a possibility of making use of the existing local practices to achieve a more sustainable system.

Gender

Troubling Love: Gender, Class, and Sideshadowing the “Happy Family” in Vietnam.

Abstract: Though socially and politically different, Vietnam's Confucian, colonial, socialist, and marketizing regimes share a common master narrative of ideal women as the moral bedrock of their nation: virtuous, self-sacrificing mothers. Drawing on ethnographic material collected in Đà Nẵng, this essay examines how women deploy discourses about ethical sentiments and national development to make sense of their experiences of love. I focus on women's moral struggles with and reasoning about sacrifice and care to complicate understandings of romantic love as linked to capitalist individualism and modernity. Instead, I show how women subtly critique, yet remain committed to, forms of love that reinforce—through state policy and common practice—hierarchical gender, intergenerational, and class relations. This is achieved through the telling and living of sideshadowing narratives, that is, subjunctive tales that invite contingency and contradiction. This nonteleological narrative practice reveals the precarious nature of ethical life and the ways love entangles political economy, moral sentiments, and moral reasoning. [morality and ethics, love, class and gender, narrative practice, Vietnam].

               Back to top

Governance

Citizen Participation in Vietnam's Local Government: Impact on Transparency and Accountability.

Thai Thi Thanh Hoa and Jean-Claude Garcia-Zamor. Journal of Public Administration & Governance, 2017, volume 7, number 4.

Abstract: Around the world, a growing crisis of legitimacy and complex problem solving characterize a sense of change in the state-citizen relationship. In Vietnam, the Doi Moi (renovation) process was carried out by the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) and the Government of Vietnam (GoV). Public institutions engaged at grassroots level by implementing a decree on "Regulation on Democracy Exercise" with the vision of a participatory society to improve the living standard of the Vietnamese people in general in order to enhance public service specifically. This article conceptualizes the concepts of Citizen Participation, Transparency, and Accountability in Vietnam. In the contested debates of the link between citizen participation and the two governance aspects, transparency and accountability, the article realizes the importance of achieving the balance from both sides of practice, as well as strengthen institutions that can reduce inefficiency and have real effectiveness. The fact that Vietnam just embarked on experimenting with policy initiatives encourages stronger citizen participation. Importantly, citizens participate in a number of elections for their delegates to local and national legislatures. One specific characteristic of public participation in Vietnam is that citizens somewhat are limited in participation by the nomination procedures and restriction in institutions. The article as a brief literature review on citizen participation and establishes the linkages between these three concepts. It reviews policy mechanisms for citizen participation and central-local power relationship. It stresses two main findings after performing sufficient empirical evidences. First, it argues that citizen participation can be an engine of good governance in local public institutions in Vietnam. Once policy window provides the population some space for their participation, it assures a widening scale of an efficient governing system. It founds that transparency and accountability of local governments are two outcomes of citizen participation.

Healthcare and Population

Assessment of injection safety in Ha Dong General Hospital, Hanoi, in 2012.

Free full text https://f1000research.com/articles/6-1003/v3.

Abstract: Background: Injection is one of the most frequently used medical methods to introduce drugs or other substances into the body for purposes of treatment or prevention. Unsafe injection can cause adverse outcomes, such as abscess and anaphylactic shock, and increases the risk of blood-borne transmission of viruses to patients and health care workers, as well as the community. Recognizing the importance of injection safety, in 2000 the Vietnamese Ministry of Health (MOH) collaborated with the Vietnam Nurses Association to launch the "Safe injection" program throughout the country, including Hanoi. Methods: This cross-sectional study, combining quantitative and qualitative analysis, was conducted from February to August 2012 in Ha Dong General Hospital using a structured questionnaire and observation checklist. The target population of the study was 109 nurses working in clinical departments and 436 injections were observed. Results: The percentage of nurses who are familiar with injection safety standards was found to be 82.6%. The proportion of practical injections that met the 23 standards of injection safety set by the MOH amounted to 22.2%. The factors related to safe injection practice of nurses who are younger age group (OR=3.1; p<0.05) and lower amount of working years (OR=2.8; p<0.05). Conclusions: Despite the high level of knowledge about safety injection, a low proportion of nurses performed correct safety injection practice. Moreover, the results demonstrated that experience might not always guarantee better practice. The findings raise the need for further training about this issue, especially among older nurses.

               Back to top

Countries of the Greater Mekong making inroads in the race towards elimination.

Free full text http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/259602/1/WHO-HTM-GMP-2017.23-eng.pdf.

Abstract: In recent years, countries of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) have hastened their efforts to prevent, diagnose and treat malaria. Enhanced surveillance systems are enabling the collection and sharing of more timely data on trends in the disease. ---  Between 2012 and 2016, the reported number of malaria cases in the GMS fell by 74% (Figure 1). Malaria deaths fell by 91% in the same period (Figure 2). Mid-year estimates for 2017 point to a further decline in cases. ---  Achieving these impressive results are the six countries of the subregion: Cambodia, the People’s Republic of China (specifically Yunnan Province), the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam. Together, they are making significant headway towards a common target: eliminating malaria by the year 2030. ---  However, since 2008, the presence of multidrug-resistant malaria parasites in the subregion has been a growing concern. Continued spread of multidrug resistance within the GMS could prove a challenge on the road towards malaria elimination.

Mothers' willingness to pay for daughters' HPV vaccine in northern Vietnam.

Ha Dinh Thu, Huong Nguyen Thanh, Thuy Hua Thanh, Le Nguyen Hai, Van Tran Thi and others. Health Care Women Int, 2017.

Abstract: HPV vaccine is effective in preventing Human papillomavirus, the main cause of cervical cancer. In Vietnam, at first, it was subsidized at $525% shaded blocka dose and reached the coverage of 96% in 2 pilot provinces, indicating potentially high acceptance. Currently, it is provided at $120-195 for three doses. This is a cross-sectional study, conducted in two northern rural districts of Vietnam. Researchers present findings to show 53.1% of mothers stated their willingness to pay (WTP) for HPV vaccine for their daughters. Perceptions on cost and condom use were associated with WTP. Mothers' affordability ranged from under $23 to $46. Measures should be implemented soon to make HPV vaccine more affordable.

               Back to top

Non-communicable diseases, food and nutrition in Vietnam from 1975 to 2015: the burden and national response.

Free full text http://apjcn.nhri.org.tw/server/APJCN/27/1/19.pdf.

Abstract: BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This review manuscript examines the burden and national response to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), food and nutrition security in Vietnam from 1975 to 2015. METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN: We extracted data from peer-reviewed manuscripts and reports of nationally representative surveys and related policies in Vietnam. RESULTS: In 2010, NCDs accounted for 318,000 deaths (72% of total deaths), 6.7 million years of life lost, and 14 million disability-adjusted life years in Vietnam. Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes mellitus were major contributors to the NCD burden. Adults had an increased prevalence of overweight and obesity (2.3% in 1993 to 15% in 2015) and hypertension (15% in 2002 to 20% in 2015). Among 25-64 years old in 2015, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 4.1% and the elevated blood cholesterol was 32%. Vietnamese had a low physical activity level, a high consumption of salt, instant noodles and sweetened non-alcoholic beverages as well as low consumption of fruit and vegetables and seafood. The alcohol consumption and smoking prevalence were high in men. Exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke was high in men, women and youths at home, work, and public places. In Vietnam, policies for NCD prevention and control need to be combined with strengthened law enforcement and increased program coverage. There were increased food production and improved dietary intake (e.g., energy intake and protein-rich foods thanked to appropriate economic, agriculture, and nutrition strategies. CONCLUSIONS: NCDs and their risk factors are emerging problems in Vietnam, which need both disease-specific and sensitive strategies in health and related sectors.

Screening for tuberculosis: Updated recommendations.

D. Campos-Outcalt. J Fam Pract, 2017, volume 66, number 12, pp. 755-757.

Abstract: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health problem worldwide with an estimated 10.4 million new cases and 1.7 million deaths having occurred in 2016. In that same year, there were 9287 new cases in the United States--the lowest number of TB cases on record. TB appears in one of 2 forms: active disease, which causes symptoms, morbidity, and mortality and is a source of transmission to others; and latent TB infection (LTBI), which is asymptomatic and noninfectious but can progress to active disease. The estimated prevalence of LTBI worldwide is 23%, although in the United States it is only about 5%. The proportion of those with LTBI who will develop active disease is estimated at 5% to 10% and is highly variable depending on risks. In the United States, about two-thirds of active TB cases occur among those who are foreign born, whose rate of active disease is 14.6/100,000. Five countries account for more than half of foreign-born cases: Mexico, the Philippines, India, Vietnam, and China.

              Back to top

Implementation and assessment of diverse strategies for physical activity promotion in Vietnam—A case report.

Free full text https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2095254617301503.

Abstract: Physical activity (PA) is effective in the prevention and treatment of many non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, dementia, and depression.1 The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized physical inactivity as the fourth leading underlying risk factor for premature death, and one which causes over 5 million deaths per year worldwide.2 ;  3 Despite these facts, a more sedentary lifestyle is spreading, not only in high-income, but also in middle- and low-income countries.  --- To address this negative trend, it is imperative to study and implement contextualized methods to increase PA both in the public at large and in specific patient groups. Several methods have shown to increase PA among patients in health care and community settings.4 In Sweden, the method PA on Prescription (PAP) has been used for almost 2 decades and is recognized as an effective method to increase PA among patients in health care settings. The self-reported adherence to PAP is shown to be 50%-65%, which is comparable to the adherence rates found in studies of drug prescriptions.5 In addition, self-assessed quality of life is improved following PAP.6 The guidelines for disease preventing methods, issued by the National Board of Health and Welfare in Sweden, states that “healthcare services should offer counseling as well as written prescriptions or pedometers and special follow-ups to individuals with insufficient levels of PA.” Official documents on national, regional, and local level support the use of the PAP method.6 The evidence-based handbook Physical Activity in the Prevention and Treatment of Disease that accompanies PAP (referred to as FYSS in Swedish) describes the evidence for the use of PA in prevention and treatment of more than 30 conditions and diseases. 7 FYSS is a tool for health care professionals to use when prescribing PA, as it provides recommendations for the most effective type and dose (intensity, frequency, and duration) of PA for each condition...

Microbial Risk Assessment of Tidal−Induced Urban Flooding in Can Tho City (Mekong Delta, Vietnam).

Hong Nguyen, Thi Huynh, Assela Pathirana and Peter Van der Steen. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2017, volume 14, number 12, p. 1485.

Free full text http://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/12/1485.

Abstract: Public health risks from urban flooding are a global concern. Contaminated floodwater may expose residents living in cities as they are in direct contact with the water. However, the recent literature does not provide much information about this issue, especially for developing countries. In this paper, the health risk due to a flood event occurred in Can Tho City (Mekong Delta, Vietnam) on 7 October 2013 was investigated. The Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment method was used in this study. The data showed that the pathogen concentrations were highly variable during the flood event and exceeded water standards for surface water. Per 10,000 people in contact with the floodwater, we found Salmonella caused the highest number of infections to adults and children (137 and 374, respectively), while E. coli caused 4 and 12 cases, per single event, respectively. The results show that further investigations on health risk related to flood issues in Can Tho City are required, especially because of climate change and urbanization. In addition, activities to raise awareness- about floods, e.g., “living with floods”, in the Mekong Delta should also consider health risk issues.

              Back to top

Supporting surveillance capacity for antimicrobial resistance: Laboratory capacity strengthening for drug resistant infections in low and middle income countries [version 1; referees: 2 approved, 1 approved with reservations].

Free full text https://wellcomeopenresearch.org/articles/2-91/v1.

Abstract: Development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) threatens our ability to treat common and life threatening infections. Identifying the emergence of AMR requires strengthening of surveillance for AMR, particularly in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) where the burden of infection is highest and health systems are least able to respond. This work aimed, through a combination of desk-based investigation, discussion with colleagues worldwide, and visits to three contrasting countries (Ethiopia, Malawi and Vietnam), to map and compare existing models and surveillance systems for AMR, to examine what worked and what did not work. --- Current capacity for AMR surveillance varies in LMICs, but and systems in development are focussed on laboratory surveillance. This approach limits understanding of AMR and the extent to which laboratory results can inform local, national and international public health policy. An integrated model, combining clinical, laboratory and demographic surveillance in sentinel sites is more informative and costs for clinical and demographic surveillance are proportionally much lower. --- The speed and extent to which AMR surveillance can be strengthened depends on the functioning of the health system, and the resources available. Where there is existing laboratory capacity, it may be possible to develop 5-20 sentinel sites with a long term view of establishing comprehensive surveillance; but where health systems are weaker and laboratory infrastructure less developed, available expertise and resources may limit this to 1-2 sentinel sites. Prioritising core functions, such as automated blood cultures, reduces investment at each site. Expertise to support AMR surveillance in LMICs may come from a variety of international, or national, institutions. It is important that these organisations collaborate to support the health systems on which AMR surveillance is built, as well as improving technical capacity specifically relating to AMR surveillance. Strong collaborations, and leadership, drive successful AMR surveillance systems across countries and contexts.

The Convergence of Policies to Fight Prenatal Sexual Selection: South Korea, India and Vietnam.

Laura Rahm. Critique internationale, 2017, volume 77, number 4, pp. 11-31.

Abstract: Over the course of the past thirty years, several Asian countries, from Armenia to Vietnam, have witnessed the advent of a sexual imbalance at birth in favor of boys. Despite the social, economic and political diversity of these countries, the governments in question have implemented similar policies against this masculinization of their populations, including legal prohibitions, awareness-raising campaigns and equal rights for girls. The present study explores the role played in the convergence of public policy in South Korea, India and Vietnam by transnational communication and the international harmonization promoted by international organizations and epistemic communities. Under the direction of the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA), international organizations have played a key role in collecting data and supporting interventions, thereby supplying a more factual basis for policy. There nevertheless exists a tendency to promote and transfer policies without being certain of their effects.

              Back to top

Reproductive tract infection and related factors among female migrants working in industrial zones in Vietnam 2013-2014.

Abstract: We conducted this study to analyse factors related to reproductive tract infections (RTIs) among female migrant workers (FMWs) in four industrial zones across four regions in Vietnam. A analytical cross-sectional study was implemented with FMWs aged between 18-49 years old in four industrial zones in Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh city (HCM) and Binh Duong, Vietnam. Stratified sampling was used to select about 6400 married and unmarried FMWs. Cases were identified through self-reporting of female migrants concerning RTIs symtoms experienced in the 1 year prior to the study. Based on multivariate logistic regression results, we suggested that about 32% of FMWs reported having RTIs problems (27.6% in Hanoi, 30.3% in Danang, 36% in HCMC, and 32.9% in Binhduong). We also identified different factors related to RTIs among different study sites. Marital status, level of education, social-economic status and numbers of migration were important related factors of RTIs.

Energy

The determinants of electricity consumption for ASEAN countries.

Free full text http://www.mjfas.utm.my/index.php/mjfas/article/view/877/pdf.

Abstract: The present study investigates the causal relationship between ASEAN seven member countries electricity consumption (EC) and some determinants such as gross domestic product (GDP), exports (EXP) and carbon dioxide emission (CO2) using vector autoregressive (VAR) framework via vector error correction (VEC) model for the period from 1980-2015. The findings show that the effect of the chosen determinants is different among the seven countries. Within the sample period, by utilizing Granger causality test, out of the seven countries, only four revealed either unidirectional or bidirectional causality running from EC to the three determinants, GDP, EXP and CO2. Whereas, thru forecast error variance decomposition (FEVD), forecasting beyond the sample period uncovered a shock to EC will also spread to GDP, EXP and CO2. The present study suggests that ASEAN should take note in designing their electricity policy, since electricity affect and be affected by other factors. In addition, ASEAN also should find solutions on how to control CO2 emission through EC.

              Back to top

Transport

A Comprehensive Approach to Motorcycle-Related Head Injury Prevention: Experiences from the Field in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Uganda.

Greig Craft, Truong Van Bui, Mirjam Sidik, Danielle Moore, David J Ederer and others. Int J Environ Res Public Health, 2017, volume 14, number 12.

Free full text http://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/14/12/1486.

Abstract: Motorcyclists account for 23% of global road traffic deaths and over half of fatalities in countries where motorcycles are the dominant means of transport. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by as much as 69% and death by 42%; however, both child and adult helmet use are low in many countries where motorcycles are a primary mode of transportation. In response to the need to increase helmet use by all drivers and their passengers, the Global Helmet Vaccine Initiative (GHVI) was established to increase helmet use in three countries where a substantial portion of road users are motorcyclists and where helmet use is low. The GHVI approach includes five strategies to increase helmet use: targeted programs, helmet access, public awareness, institutional policies, and monitoring and evaluation. The application of GHVI to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Uganda resulted in four key lessons learned. First, motorcyclists are more likely to wear helmets when helmet use is mandated and enforced. Second, programs targeted to at-risk motorcyclists, such as child passengers, combined with improved awareness among the broader population, can result in greater public support needed to encourage action by decision-makers. Third, for broad population-level change, using multiple strategies in tandem can be more effective than using a single strategy alone. Lastly, the successful expansion of GHVI into Cambodia and Uganda has been hindered by the lack of helmet accessibility and affordability, a core component contributing to its success in Vietnam. This paper will review the development of the GHVI five-pillar approach in Vietnam, subsequent efforts to implement the model in Cambodia and Uganda, and lessons learned from these applications to protect motorcycle drivers and their adult and child passengers from injury.

              Back to top