scholarly journals Acceptability of assisted reproductive technologies in Hong Kong, a very low fertility Asian city

2020 ◽  
Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽  
Author(s):  
J H Kim ◽  
S Y S Wong ◽  
R Chan ◽  
R Y Chan ◽  
T S Sumerlin ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hong Kong ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Public Support ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Low Fertility ◽  
Heterosexual Couples ◽  
Asian Countries ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Western Countries ◽  
Regulatory Frameworks

Abstract Background Although advances in medical technologies now allow greater reproductive options, the social acceptance of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) has not been examined in East Asian countries which currently have the lowest fertility rates in the world and highly prohibitive regulations. Methods A cross-sectional telephone surveys interviewed 990 among Hong Kong Chinese adults (>18 years of age) in 2015 who were asked about their knowledge and attitudes towards various ART and their inclination to use ART. A focus group was conducted (n = 30) on physicians to examine the perceived barriers and benefits of integrating ART as routine offerings. Results Although nearly all adults (>92.0%) were familiar with ART procedures such as in vitro fertilization, sperm banking, and gestational surrogacy, attitudes supporting the use of these services and the inclination to use these services varied widely by socio-demographic attributes. Nearly one-third (31.5%) of women said that they would consider cryopreservation of their oocytes or embryos if they could afford it and 21.9% would encourage their female family members to do so. Although respondents considered sperm donation and embryo preservation to be well-accepted practices, support for these services was noticeably lower than in Western countries for unmarried individuals and homosexuals. Also, the vast majority of respondents were much more disinclined to use anonymous donor gametes than in Western countries. Among medical practitioners, the primary barriers to routine offering of these services to their clients was the perceived lack of cultural acceptance of these types of services. Conclusions Public support of assisted reproductive services for genetic offspring is well-accepted for heterosexual couples. Main Messages: Asian countries with sub-replacement fertility levels may consider integrating ART into their mainstream health services and updating their regulatory frameworks. Key messages Public support for assisted reproductive technologies is high for married couples only in Hong Kong. Given the sub-replacement fertility levels, cities in East Asia should consider updating regulatory frameworks to allow expansion of ART services.

scholarly journals Queering reproductive access: reproductive justice in assisted reproductive technologies

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Michelle W. Tam
Keyword(s):  
Reproductive Health ◽  
Policy Development ◽  
White Supremacy ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Low Fertility ◽  
Reproductive Capacity ◽  
Reproductive Justice ◽  
Heterosexual Couples ◽  
Marginalized Communities

Abstract Background Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and policy development have enabled more people to have biologically related children in Canada. However, as ART continues to focus on infertility and low fertility of heterosexual couples, ART access and research has been uneven towards meeting the reproductive needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirit, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQ2SIA +) people. Furthermore, experiences of reproduction are impacted by intersectional lived realities of race, gender, sexuality, and class. This commentary utilizes a reproductive justice (RJ) framework to consider reproductive access for LGBTQ2SIA + Black, Indigenous, and people of colour (BIPOC), while simultaneously engaging through a critical lens RJ has on ART. An RJ framework considers the constitutive elements of reproductive capacity and decision making that are not often at the forefront of reproductive health discussions. Additionally, this commentary discusses reproductive rights violations and reproductive violence such as coerced and forced sterilizations that have and are currently occurring in Canada. This article considers systems of access and structures of regulation that seek to control the reproductive capacities of marginalized communities, while empowering accessibility and upholding white supremacy and heteronormativity. In thinking through research and access in ART, who are ART users and whose reproduction is centered in research and access in Canada? Conclusion A reproductive justice framework is urgently needed to address inequities of sexual and reproductive health access in Canada.

scholarly journals A cross-sectional study of sexual function and fertility status in adults with congenital genitourinary abnormalities in a U.S. tertiary care centre

2018 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hannah McCloskey ◽  
Aaron Kaviani ◽  
Rashmi Pande ◽  
Timothy Boone ◽  
Rose Khavari
Keyword(s):  
Sexual Function ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Tertiary Care ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Time Frame ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Adult Patients ◽  
Tertiary Care Centre ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Fertility Status

Introduction: We aimed to evaluate sexual function, sexual knowledge, and fertility status in adult patients with congenital genitourinary abnormalities (CGUA). Methods: Adult patients with CGUA who were referred to a single transitional urology clinic between 2014 and 2017 were prospectively recruited to participate in the study. Questionnaires about general demographics, bowel and bladder continence, fertility, and sexuality were gathered. Validated questionnaires, including the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) and Brief Index of Sexual Functioning for Women (BISF-W), were also collected. Results: A total of 167 adults with CGUA were referred to our clinic within the defined time frame. Sixty patients (25 males, 35 females) with a mean age of 25.4 years (range 18–75) met inclusion criteria and responded to questionnaires pertaining to sexuality and fertility. Forty-five (75%) responded to the fertility questionnaire; 26 (58%) had never heard of assisted reproductive technologies, and only one had received prior fertility counselling. Fifty-eight participants (97%) responded to the sexuality questionnaire; 21 (36%) reported a history of sexual activity, with 12 (21%) being currently sexually active. Twenty (34%) wanted to learn more about sexuality and/or fertility. The SHIM response rate was 44%, and only three females (9%) completed the BISF-W in its entirety. Conclusions: Adults with CGUA desire more sexuality and fertility education, yet they are uncomfortable completing current questionnaires. Our sexuality and fertility questionnaires are too challenging for this patient population to complete despite assistance. Thus, modifications are urgently needed. Additionally, medical providers should discuss sexual and reproductive health with these patients earlier and in more detail.

scholarly journals Assisted reproductive technologies in Russia: medical breakthroughs and social problems

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
pp. 5-18
Author(s):  
Nina E. Rusanova
Keyword(s):  
Public Perception ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Professional Associations ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Low Fertility ◽  
Reproductive Disorders ◽  
Hospital Statistics ◽  
Qualitative Characteristics ◽  
Demographic Policy

The paper considers the role of assisted reproductive technologies in changing the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of Russian fertility. The author analyzes the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of ART in Russia in 1986-2020, their public perception and current problems based on the data of national ART registers, reviews of international professional associations of reproductive specialists, secondary sociological information and hospital statistics. The general trend is the expansion of the geography of reproductive centers and the diversification of services, but the growing demand for ART as methods of alternative conception in the absence of reproductive disorders intensifies public debate around them, especially in the context of religion and children’s health. Nevertheless, in conditions of low fertility, the state considers ART as instruments of a pronatal demographic policy and finances them even against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.

scholarly journals Cross-Sectional Survey Of Fertility Knowledge In Obstetrics And Gynecology Residents

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract PURPOSE: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency coordinators nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform.RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training. Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).

scholarly journals A Cross-Sectional Survey Of Fertility Knowledge In Obstetrics And Gynecology Residents

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Leah May Roberts ◽  
Rashmi Kudesia ◽  
Huaqing Zhao ◽  
Shaliz Dolan ◽  
Marisa Rose
Keyword(s):  
Online Survey ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Knowledge Score ◽  
The United States ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Obstetrics And Gynecology ◽  
Success Rates ◽  
Cross Sectional Survey ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Level Of Training

Abstract BACKGROUND: To evaluate fertility knowledge among current Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) residents using a recently published validated instrument, the Fertility and Infertility Treatment Knowledge Score (FIT-KS).METHODS: OB-GYN residents in the United States were recruited through an email to all residency coordinators nationwide. They were asked to voluntarily respond to a short questionnaire including demographic information and the FIT-KS instrument, through an online survey platform. Of approximately 5,000 OB-GYN residents in the country, 177 responded. RESULTS: The sample was 91% female, with 69% between the ages of 26 and 30. Participants evenly represented all four years of training. Mean FIT-KS score was 21.2 (73% correct; range 17-26). No statistically significant differences were noted across the level of training. Several knowledge gaps were noted. Residents could define the common assisted reproductive technologies; however overestimated their success rates per cycle. CONCLUSIONS: Substantial gaps exist in fertility knowledge among OB-GYN residents, with understanding of male fertility and success rates of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) being particularly limited. Knowledge of fertility does not change throughout residency training, demonstrating consistent gaps in fertility knowledge. Knowledge during post graduate year (PGY)-1 year is consistent with mean scores found in prior research in Internal Medicine residents (65%), as well as a cohort of female medical students and obstetrics and gynecology residents and fellows (64.9%)(1, 2).

Letter To The Editor

PEDIATRICS ◽  
1996 ◽  
Vol 98 (4) ◽  
pp. 797-798
Author(s):  
Harald H. Knöbel ◽  
Chien-Jen Chen ◽  
Kung-Yee Liang
Keyword(s):  
Air Pollution ◽  
Hong Kong ◽  
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome ◽  
Infant Death ◽  
Sudden Infant Death ◽  
Sudden Infant ◽  
Autopsy Rate ◽  
Asian Countries ◽  
Western Countries ◽  
Letter To The Editor

We are grateful to Steven Koehler for his comments on our study on sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and air pollution in Taiwan.1 The criticism focuses on the autopsy rate and the new, but well-referenced finding, that in Taiwan, and probably other Asian countries, the majority of classic SIDS is coded as suffocation. Following is an itemized reply to the issues raised. SIDS has been assumed to be a phenomenon of western countries. In China and Hong Kong it is thought to be virtually nonexistent2,3 Japan and Taiwan have officially published rates that are extremely low.4,5

scholarly journals Public perception of ethical issues related to COVID-19 control measures in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia: A cross-sectional survey

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Teck Chuan Voo ◽  
Angela Ballantyne ◽  
Ng Chirk Jenn ◽  
Benjamin J. Cowling ◽  
Jingyi Xiao ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Hong Kong ◽  
Public Perception ◽  
Ethical Issues ◽  
Public Attitudes ◽  
Public Support ◽  
Control Measures ◽  
Contact Tracing ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Travel Restrictions ◽  
Monitoring Devices

AbstractBackgroundSeveral countries have implemented control measures to limit SARS-CoV-2 spread, including digital contact tracing, digital monitoring of quarantined individuals and testing of travelers. These raise ethical issues around privacy, personal freedoms and equity. However, little is known regarding public acceptability of these measures.MethodsIn December 2020, we conducted surveys among 3635 respondents in Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia to understand public perceptions on the ethical acceptability of COVID-19 control measures.FindingsHong Kong respondents were much less supportive of digital contact tracing and monitoring devices than those in Malaysia and Singapore. Around three-quarters of Hong Kong respondents perceived digital contact tracing as an unreasonable restriction of individual freedom; <20% trusted that there were adequate local provisions preventing these data being used for other purposes. This was the opposite in Singapore, where nearly three-quarters of respondents agreed that there were adequate data protection rules locally. In contrast, only a minority of Hong Kong respondents viewed mandatory testing and vaccination for travelers as unreasonable infringements of privacy or freedom. Less than two-thirds of respondents in all territories were willing to be vaccinated against COVID-19, with a quarter of respondents undecided. However, support for differential travel restrictions for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals was high in all settings.InterpretationOur findings highlight the importance of socio-political context in public perception of public health measures and emphasize the need to continually monitor public attitudes towards such measures to inform implementation and communication strategies.FundingThis work was funded by the World Health Organization.Research in contextEvidence before this studyWe searched PubMed and Google Scholar for research articles published between 29 February 2020 to 20 January 2021 to identify empirical studies on public perception of restrictive and control measures imposed during COVID-19. We used the following terms: “COVID-19”, “SARS-COV-2”, “pandemic”, “public”, “population”, “survey”, “cross-sectional”, “national”, “international”, “perception”, “attitudes”, “opinions”, “views”, “acceptance”, “acceptability”, “support”, “ethics”, “restrictive measures”, “restrictions”, “control measures”, travel”, “contact tracing”, “testing”, “tests”, “quarantine”, “monitoring”, “vaccines” “vaccination”, “immunity”, “certificates”, “passports”, “digital”, “applications”, “apps”, “mandatory” and “compulsory”. We found 4 peer-reviewed publications: three population surveys on public acceptance of and ethical issues in digital contact tracing in France, Jordan, and Ireland, and one population survey on perceptions of immunity and vaccination certificates in Geneva, Switzerland. We found no studies that studied the relative acceptance of different types of control measures.Added valueThere is a paucity of literature on public perception of the ethics of control measures that have been or may be implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we found differing levels of public support in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Malaysia for digital contact tracing, wearable quarantine monitoring devices, and mandatory testing and vaccination for travelers. Hong Kong respondents sharply differed from Singapore and Malaysia respondents on perceptions of risks and benefits, the extent of intrusion into individual freedom, and assurance of privacy and data protection related to use of digital contact tracing and monitoring devices. These differences are likely to be substantially influenced by socio-political climate and governmental trust. Although less than two-thirds of respondents in all territories expressed a willingness to be vaccinated against COVID-19, we found high support for differential travel restrictions for vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals in all settings.Implications of all the available evidenceOur survey provides evidence of strong public support of vaccination requirements for travelers within an Asian context, and differential restrictions for vaccinated and non-vaccinated travelers. It highlights the importance of wider socio-political influences on public perception and ethical issues related to control measures and emphasizes the need to continually monitor public attitudes towards such measures to inform implementation and communication strategies.

scholarly journals The impact of adverse maternal environments on resistance artery function and mechanical characteristics in offspring

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
◽  
Francisco Ignacio Ramirez-Perez
Keyword(s):  
Maternal Obesity ◽  
Assisted Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Reproductive Technologies ◽  
Mesenteric Arteries ◽  
Standard Diet ◽  
Obese Women ◽  
Male Mice ◽  
Maternal Environment ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
The Impact

Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Maternal obesity, gestational diabetes mellitus (GMD) and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have been associated with cardiovascular deficiencies in offspring. Obese women often suffer from infertility and use ART to achieve a pregnancy. Children of mothers that undergo ART or experience GDM have a higher risk of developing hypertension, but little is known about the mechanisms that control this process. Here, I report that in offspring, the interaction between a high fructose and high fat diet (also known as western diet, WD) and ART exhibited impaired endothelialdependent dysfunction in mesenteric resistance arteries, this was determined by the presence of reduced acetylcholine vasodilation. Arteries from WD-ART male mice had greater wall cross-sectional area (CSA) and wall-to-lumen ratio (W/L) compared to their respective ART control, indicative of vascular hypertrophic remodeling. Another adverse maternal environment during pregnancy is GDM, with 2-10 [percent] of pregnancies in the US being affected. To study this model, we designed a two-by-two experiment array using male mice, with main effects genotype and diet. In resistance mesenteric arteries of wild type (WT) offspring fed a WD experienced enhanced vasodilation to acetylcholine. Furthermore, in offspring of hyperleptinemic dams WD reduced vasodilation to insulin. Offspring of hyperleptinemic dams had stiffer arteries regardless of the diet. Therefore, we conclude that while maternal hyperleptinemia was beneficial to offspring vascular health fed a standard diet (SD), it had detrimental effects when fed a WD. The results of these two projects suggest that an adverse maternal environment (i.e. ART or GDM) in combination with a WD favors the development of endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffening in resistance mesenteric arteries of offspring.

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