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Biomedical subjects

S Gjesdal

Publications and source records attributed to S Gjesdal.

4 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1997

[Norwegian fibromyalgia epidemic--its rise or possible decline. What is the trend based on disability statistics?].

The Norwegian National Insurance Scheme (Folketrygden) offers universal coverage to all inhabitants between 16 and 67 years with respect to disability pension. During the 1980s, the number of new disability-pensioners increased rapidly. In 1991, 8.5% of the population at risk received this pension. So called "diffuse" conditions in the musculoskeletal system accounted for a large proportion of new cases. Myalgia/fibromyalgia became a major reason for disability pension. In 1989 more than 7% of the new cases had this diagnosis. The parliament (Stortinget) passed controversial amendments to the National Insurance Acts in 1991 and 1995 which restricted the criteria for obtaining a disability pension. At present the law demands that "a scientific concept of disease" should be applied in these matters. The numbers of new disability-pensioners decreased significantly during the period 1989-1993. The figures from 1994 and 1995 perhaps show a new upward trend, including also "diffuse" diagnoses like fibromyalgia. The use of "diffuse conditions" as a cause for disability pension is discussed in light of the official request for a scientifically justified diagnosis.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1993

[Primary health care and patients with severe mental disorders living at their own homes].

Lack of relevant information has been stated as a major obstacle to the development of better services for persons with serious mental disorders. The information on patients not in contact with the specialist services seems to be particularly incomplete. The objective of this study was to describe a subgroup of psychiatric patients living in a semi-rural municipality in Norway who had no contact with the specialist mental health services. 15 patients below 70 years of age (0.3% of the population at risk) with a diagnosis of schizophrenia from psychiatric hospital, and still on neuroleptic maintenance-treatment prescribed by a primary physician were identified. The authors present the characteristics of this group, with emphasis on their health status, their social network, and the actual treatment and care provided, and discuss the need for clear case-definitions in community surveys of psychiatric disorders. They finally describe the current trend towards new and improved models for cooperation between the primary health care and the specialist services.

Adult↗