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Scientists at James Cook University, Medical Department detail research in contraception
2009 AUG 4 - (NewsRx.com) -- According to a study from Cairns, Australia, "Emergency contraception (EC) has been available in Australia without prescription since 2003. However, there has been little research into the extent of knowledge of the actions, effectiveness and availability of EC among the general population." "To determine the extent of knowledge of EC among tertiary students in Far North Queensland, and their ability to access EC in the region. A questionnaire was distributed to tertiary students in Cairns asking about their knowledge of EC, its effectiveness and its availability over-the-counter in pharmacies, as well as their willingness to access EC themselves if indicated, in settings in which they may be known, and in those where they would be unknown. Of 500 questionnaires 460 were returned; 29% of participants had used EC in the past. Only 20% understood the correct timeframe in which EC can be used; 40% were not aware of its availability over-the-counter in pharmacies, and more than 20% felt unable to purchase EC in a pharmacy where they could be recognised. Only 44% of participants were aware of the cost of EC. A significant lack of information regarding the availability, methods of action and limitations of EC was noted in this well-educated population," wrote D. Mohoricstare and colleagues, James Cook University, Medical Department. The researchers concluded: "There was also a high proportion of participants who felt unable to access EC in a pharmacy where they might be known, a factor limiting accessibility of the method in small town and community settings." Mohoricstare and colleagues published the results of their research in Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology (Knowledge of emergency contraception amongst tertiary students in far North Queensland. Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, 2009;49(3):307-311). For additional information, contact D. Mohoricstare, James Cook University, Cairns Base Hospital, School Medical, Dept. of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Cairns, Qld 4870, Australia. The publisher of the Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology can be contacted at: Wiley-Blackwell Publishing, Inc., Commerce Place, 350 Main St., Malden 02148, MA, USA. Keywords: Australia, Cairns, Contraception, Gynecology, Pharmaceuticals, James Cook University, Medical Department. This article was prepared by Drug Law Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Drug Law Weekly via NewsRx.com.
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