[Prevalence of antibodies against tetanus, diphtheria and Bordetella pertussis in health care professionals]. / Prevalenica de anticuerpos frente a tétanos, difteria y Bordetella pertussis en profesionales sanitarios.

AIM: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of antibodies versus tetanus, diphtheria and Bordetella pertussis in a population of health care personnel. PATIENTS AND METHODS: A transversal study was carried out in a population of healthy health care professionals from two hospitalary centers in the Community of Madrid (Spain). The ELISA method was used for antibody determinations. The determination of antibodies versus tetanus and diphtheria was performed in a total of 344 individuals (mean age 32 years) and that of whooping cough in 104 subjects (mean age 23 years). RESULTS: The global prevalence of tetanus, diphtheria and whooping cough was of 76.5, 48 and 57%, respectively. The prevalence of antibodies versus tetanus was significantly greater in males than in females. CONCLUSIONS: Revaccination versus tetanus and diphtheria is recommended every 10 years to guarantee protector antibody concentrations in adults. With regard to whooping cough, revaccination could be a strategy to consider in the future, particularly in risk groups in contact with cases of this disease.

[Self-medication and pharmacologic compliance at a primary care center]. / Automedicación y cumplimiento farmacológico en una consulta de atención primaria.

The prevalence of reported self-medication and compliance and some associated factors in patients 25 and over years of age attending a primary health center is studied using the case finding method, during the period of March-December, 1987. Self-medication was reported by 48% of patients (41% were taking one drug and 7% two drugs). Nervous system drugs were the most common pharmacologic group over the counter. As for compliance of prescribed drugs, 81% reported to take their medication in the prescribed way at least 3 out of 4 times. Younger patients reported more self-medication. Non compliance was more frequent in members of larger families. No other statistical differences were found. We conclude that the patients in our practice report a high level of self-medication and also a high level of compliance of prescribed drugs. These data are to be taken into account for the planning of future health programs targeted to the use of drugs in our community.