PHWR Public Health Weekly Report

Vol.17 No.35, September 05, 2024 Article TypePolicy NotesQuickStatsSurveillance Reports

• Surveillance Reports 2024-09-05

  0 214 47

  Report on the Current Status of the Korea Hepatitis C Virus Cohort Study

  Oeuk Jeong, Sangmi Ryou, JeongGyu Lee, Min Jin Go, Jungyeon KIM*

  Public Health Weekly Report 2024; 17(35): 1465-1481 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2024.17.35.1

  

  

  Abstract

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  The Korea hepatitis C virus (HCV) cohort study is currently being developed to analyze the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of patients infected with the HCV in the Republic of Korea through long-term follow-up, while also laying the groundwork for further research. The study aims to maintain an actual follow-up rate of more than 70% for cohort participants over a period exceeding 5 years and to ensure the total number of registered participants surpasses 1,500 by securing clinical data and biological resources. In 2023, 126 new participants were registered, bringing the total cumulative number of enrollees to 4,005 as of October 2023. Over the past decade, this cohort study has established an operating system for cohort-based research, created standardized research methodologies and survey instruments (Case Report Form), and developed techniques to standardize and validate data collected from multicenter cohorts. Building on these foundations, we aim to establish a scientific basis that will inform policy decisions concerning the management of individuals infected with hepatitis C.

• Policy Notes 2024-09-05

  0 86 36

  Results of the Joint Task Force for Respiratory Infectious Diseases During the Winter of 2023

  Jeongok Cha, Yumi Kim, Seulki Kang, Yejin Seo, Gyehee Lee, Inho Kim, Sunja Kim, Jeeyoung Kim, Jinsun Yang

  Public Health Weekly Report 2024; 17(35): 1482-1497 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2024.17.35.2

  

  

  Abstract

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  During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, no outbreaks of other respiratory infectious diseases occurred. However, with the easing of quarantine measures in the latter half of 2022, several respiratory illnesses including influenza, Mycoplasma pneumonia, Bordetella pertussis, and measles began to spread simultaneously. In response, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency (KDCA) closely monitored the situation through meetings with the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters and expert briefings. In early December, the KDCA established the “ Joint Task Force for Respiratory Infectious Diseases” in collaboration with both public and private sectors. As part of the task force’s initiatives, the criteria for medical care benefits for M. pneumoniae treatment were expanded to support patient care. Additionally, in collaboration with relevant academic societies, the “Guidelines for Antibiotic Treatment of Macrolide-resistant M. pneumoniae in Children” were updated. The KDCA also strengthened the management of antibiotics and hospital bed availability in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) and the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety. Furthermore, field inspections were conducted in vulnerable schools, daycare centers, kindergartens, and medical institutions considered vulnerable, in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and the MOHW, to prevent the spread of respiratory infections during the winter. Thanks to the rapid and coordinated efforts among the relevant ministries and the medical community, the simultaneous outbreaks of various respiratory infectious diseases did not escalate into a major public health crisis. Drawing on the experience of the “Joint Task Force for Respiratory Infectious Diseases”, the KDCA plans to enhance the monitoring of community outbreaks of respiratory diseases and strengthen collaborative efforts with relevant ministries. The focus will be on high-risk groups and facilities particularly susceptible to infections, aiming to improve preparedness and response capabilities.

• Policy Notes 2024-09-05

  0 132 12

  Study to Establish a National Dose Management System for Dental Imaging Examinations

  Ji Yun Lee, Jung Su Kim, Sang Wook Yoon, You Jeong Min, Jong Won Gil, Jong Hun Won, Chena Lee

  Public Health Weekly Report 2024; 17(35): 1498-1515 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2024.17.35.3

  

  

  Abstract

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  With the rapid advancements in x-ray technology in the medical field, the use of diagnostic radiation has been increasing. Consequently, concerns about radiation exposure have been increasing since its introduction. In dentistry, radiation exposure during imaging examinations is relatively low, and a high frequency of these procedures, particularly the extensive use of dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), has amplified concerns among users and the general public. This highlights the need for a dose management system tailored to dental x-ray equipment. This study aimed to establish such a system nationwide for dental imaging. Therefore, the structures of the intraoral radiography, panoramic radiography and CBCT systems were analyzed, and a comprehensive data collection plan was formulated. Using this groundwork, the national dose management system was created and tested through a pilot operation. To continue expanding and improving the system, feedback from experts in the field should be incorporated.

• QuickStats 2024-09-05

  0 24 16

  Trends in the Intake of Saturated Fatty Acids, During 2013–2022

  Public Health Weekly Report 2024; 17(35): 1516-1517 https://doi.org/10.56786/PHWR.2024.17.35.4

  

  

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