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Geographical Locations - Suriname
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- (Statistical) Number of Inhabitants per Doctor: 1,348
- CIA - World Factbook: Suriname
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Reports, Guidelines, and Projects
- Assessment of the Suriname Health Information Systems
"This health information systems assessment identifies weak links and presents recommendations to strengthen those linkages. The assessment is the first step in enhancing the information systems to provide clear signposts on where to go and what to do to improve the well-being of the people of Suriname." [The Ministry of Health of Suriname and the Pan American Health Organization, April 2007]
- Community-directed risk assessment of mercury exposure from gold mining in Suriname
Objectives: The overarching objective of this project was to support the indigenous people in Kwakoegron, Suriname, in self-diagnosis of public and environmental health problems. The specific objectives, defined by the people of Kwakoegron were: (1) to determine for themselves if they are at risk of exposure to mercury (Hg) contamination, (2) to measure the extent of the Hg contamination problem, and (3) to initiate an intervention plan. Methods: Field work was conducted from June 2005 to April 2006. Community members were trained to collect hair samples for analysis using methods designed to maximize sample quality and consistency and minimize cross-contamination. Each hair sample, of approximately 20 mg, was weighed, added to the sample boat, and analyzed immediately without preservation or storage. Technicians educated in analytical chemistry and trained in the operation of the portable Lumex Zeeman Hg analyzer measured the total Hg (THg) for each hair sample. Confidential meetings were held with each person sampled and any questions were answered. Afterwards, a community meeting was held to reflect on the process, outcome, and future needs. Results: Hair samples from 16 of the 22 participants had Hg levels of 2.2–20.2 μg/g THg, exceeding normal THg levels for hair (2 μg/g THg). During the confidential, individual meetings and the followup community meeting, information was shared regarding the Hg levels found, what the numbers meant scientifically, what the potential health effects could be, and how exposure levels might be brought down. At the conclusion of the followup meeting, the Kwakoegron community proposed an intervention plan that had three principle parts: (1) routine analysis of Hg exposure to monitor trends and track the effects of exposure-reduction efforts; (2) routine health assessments to determine the effects of Hg exposure, particularly in children less than 5 years of age; and (3) fish advisories based on fish biology and trophic level or on the specific measurement of Hg levels in various fish species from various locations and different times throughout the year. Conclusions: This project showed that a democratic approach to science does not automatically compromise the orderly search for answers. Specifically, our experience in Kwakoegron suggests that the collaborative relationship that emerges by empowering an indigenous community to initiate its own research projects, and address the needs it identifies, can contribute positively to the risk assessment process. This project showed that when Kwakoegron was acknowledged as an equal partner, the risk assessment process led to an open exchange of information and an intervention plan that was both pragmatic and acceptable in the context of the community’s unique social and cultural needs. [author abstract] [Rev Panam Salud Publica. 2007; 22(3): 202–210]
- Drug Resistance and Genetic Diversity of Plasmodium Falciparum Parasites from Suriname
Plasmodium falciparum in Suriname was studied for the presence of drug resistance and genetic variation in blood samples of 86 patients with symptomatic malaria. Drug resistance was predicted by determining point mutations in the chloroquine resistance marker of the P. falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) gene (codon 76) and the pyrimethamine-sulfadoxine resistance markers in the dihydrofolate reductase (dhfr) gene (codons 16, 51, 59, 108, and 164) and dihydropteroate synthase (dhps) gene (codons 436, 437, 540, 581, and 613). Genetic variability was determined by sequence analysis of the polymorphic segments of the merozoite surface protein 2 (msp-2) and glutamate-rich protein (glurp) genes. Mutations in the pfcrt, dhps, and dhfr genes were found in all samples tested, suggesting that resistance to chloroquine and antifolate drugs is present at a high frequency. A low number of alleles was found for the msp-2 and glurp genes. This indicates limited genetic diversity and, based on geographic data, a genetically homogeneous P. falciparum population in Suriname. [author abstract] [Am. J. Trop. Med. Hyg., 73(5), 2005, pp. 833–838]
- Estimating the Economic Impact of HIV/AIDS in Suriname, 2003-2015
"The goal of the study is to project the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic on key economic indicators in Suriname. Underlying this goal, three main objectives emerge, namely: (i) The estimation of the impact of the epidemic at both the micro and macro levels on the Surinamese economy; (ii) The updating of HIV prevalence projections for Suriname; and (iii) The transfer of the model to technical staff, which will facilitate training of persons in the application of the modelling technology. It is hoped that this will bolster support for advocacy programmes which are aimed at reducing the spread of the epidemic. Within the context of the development and implementation of a Strategic Plan for combating HIV/AIDS in Suriname, this study provides valuable information for policy makers as they would seek to craft appropriate measures aimed at mitigating the impact of the disease. A critical element of the study is the development of a user-friendly computer front end that captures the key variables associated with the model. This front end is structured in both a web-based and a spreadsheet format and allows the user, for example technical personnel in the relevant Ministries in Suriname, to manipulate a number of key variables that will impact on the outcome of the model. This feature incorporates a degree of flexibility into the operation of the model and will, for example, permit users to capture changes in such things as the price of drugs, the change in behaviour in response to an intervention, and changes in the efficiency of the surveillance and overall health care systems. It allows policy makers to also incorporate certain “what if” scenarios that can provide the basis for sensitivity analysis on the output of the model.” [Strengthening the Institutional Response to HIV/AIDS/STI in the Caribbean (SIRHASC), September 2004]
- Food Security and Vulnerability Assessment - Suriname
"This study was prepared within the framework of the FAO/CARICOM/CARIFORUM project 'Promoting CARICOM/CARIFORUM Food Security,' developed as part of the Caribbean Regional Special Programme for Food Security (CRSPFS). The goal of the project is to improve food security by increasing availability and access to adequate quantities of safe, good quality food. This assessment was implemented through a review of secondary literature, data collection, and discussions with key informants, focus group discussions and meetings with the national counterpart group. It was important to involve government and non-government stakeholders in key activities to foster a better understanding of the process and rationale linked to specific recommendations." [Promoting Caricom/Cariforum Food Security (Project GTFS/RLA/141/ ITA) (FAO Trust Fund for Food Security and Food Safety), October 2007]
- Health in the Americas 2007: Suriname
As a health agency, the Pan American Health Organization’s core discipline is epidemiology, which enables the measurement, definition, and comparison of health problems and conditions and their distribution from the perspectives of population, geography, and time. This publication on Suriname addresses the issue of health as a human right, taking into account both the individual and community contexts, and examines various critical determinants of health, including those of a biological, social, cultural, economic, and political nature. That examination reveals the existence of gaps, disparities, and inequities that persist in Suriname, especially those related to access to basic services, health, nutrition, housing, and adequate living conditions as well as to the lack of opportunities for human development—all of which contribute to the greater vulnerability to diseases and health risks of some population groups. [Adapted from the preface of Health in the Americas 2007]
- High Rates of Suicide and Attempted Suicide Using Pesticides in Nickerie, Suriname, South America
Suicide and attempted suicide are identified as a serious mental health problem in Suriname, especially in the district of Nickerie. An epidemiological study in the Nickerie catchment area revealed high rates of suicide (48 per 100,000) and attempted suicide (207 per 100,000) on average in the years 2000–2004. Particularly remarkable is the high number of attempted suicides among males (49%), and the use of pesticides in both fatal (55%) and nonfatal suicidal behavior (44%). Probably this high incidence of suicidal behaviour reflects the very poor economic situation of the district, poverty of most of the population, high levels of alcohol misuse, domestic violence, the rigidity of Hindustani culture regarding family traditions, the accessibility of pesticides, and the lack of future perspectives. Health care alone will not be sufficient to tackle this problem. One of the most urgent measures to prevent suicides is to stow away pesticides in locked cabinets with the key held by the proprietor. [author abstract] [Crisis 2006; Vol. 27(2): 77–81]
- HIV/AIDS Stigma and Discrimination among Nurses in Suriname
The more civilized a society becomes the more subtle the stigma and discrimination gets. Suriname is a country known for its folklore, hospitality, and social control. In the last decennia a new trend of cultural diffusion has led to greater recognition of formerly classed deviant practices of behavior. Under the influence of this kind of exposure our norms, values, and beliefs now cater for modern day perspectives of liberal thinking that encompass acceptance of one another on the basis of perceived differences of culture and appearance. Yet still, stigma and discrimination play a part in our day to day experiences of religion, poverty, independence, freedom of choice, social strata, disease prevention and even political ferment. [author abstract] [Revista Interamericana de Psicología/Interamerican Journal of Psychology - 2007, Vol. 41, No. 1, pp. 67-74]
- Maroon Gold Miners and Mining Risks in the Suriname Amazon
Participation in small-scale gold mining jeopardizes the health, economic security, and ecological resource base of Maroon gold miners and their families in Suriname, South America. Given these risks, why do increasing numbers of Maroons become gold miners? It is often argued that gold miners are unaware of the risks of mining, or that they are ruthless adventurers with a "strike-it-rich" mentality. These stereotypes are unfounded. [publication summary] [In: Cultural Survival Quarterly 25(1). Special Issue: "Mining Indigenous Lands: Can Impacts and Benefits be Reconciled?", Saleem H. Ali & Larissa Behrendt eds., pp. 25-29]
- Suriname: Country profile
"In Suriname, malaria risk is greatest along the Marowijne River, which borders French Guiana, as well as in areas close to Brokopondo Lake in the northern-central region where A. darlingi is present. Malaria caused by P. falciparum is the most prominent infectious disease in remote areas. The total of 14 657 malaria cases reported in 2003 was similar to that reported in previous years. The outbreaks in 2003 occurred in the south of the country near the Brazilian border as well as in the eastern Marowijne region, which were associated with increased movement of people into gold-mining areas. Malaria control is carried out mostly by the Medical Mission, an NGO primarily financed by the government. The country collaborates with Brazil, French Guiana and Guyana because of overlapping areas of transmission and cross-border migration of the labour force for the mining industry in remote areas." [Roll Back Malaria Monitoring and Evaluation, April 2005]
- Suriname: Country Report on the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment to HIV/AIDS, January 2005 – December 2007
"In June 2001 the Government of Suriname adopted the UNGASS Declaration of Commitment, thus underlining national commitment to the fight against HIV and AIDS. In May 2004, the Government of Suriname and its partners developed the National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS 2004-2008 (NSP). The overarching objective of this NSP is: “to halt the spread of HIV and to reduce the negative effects of HIV and AIDS on the community”. The NSP outlines a multi sector approach involving all sections of society. Since then this NSP served as the national framework for expansion and strengthening of the multi sectoral response against HIV/AIDS. Approval of a Global Fund grant and continued strong partnerships with UN and other partners provided the necessary financial resources for rapid expansion of national programs. In 2005 a second Global Fund grant enabled rapid up scaling of national-level and targeted prevention efforts… In 2006 a total annual number of 715 new cases were recorded, while the total cumulative number of registered HIV/AIDS cases reached 4.358, consisted of 2.215 women and 2.143 men… The gender distribution of new HIV+ cases has shifted over the years and since 2004 females account for the majority of reported HIV+, in particular in the younger age groups of 15-19 years and 20-24 years. This unequal gender pattern can be ascribed to several factors: the huge scaling up of HIV screening of pregnant women, much more women than men applying for VCT and the higher vulnerability of (young) women to HIV infection due to their relative weak economic and socio cultural position." [UNAIDS and Ministry of Health, Suriname, January 2008]
- Suriname: Country Report on the UNGASS on HIV/AIDS, January 2008 – December 2009
"In May 2004, the Government of Suriname and its partners developed the National Strategic Plan on HIV/AIDS 2004-2008 (NSP). The overarching objective of this NSP is: ‘to halt the spread of HIV and to reduce the negative effects of HIV and AIDS on the community’. The NSP outlines a multi sector approach involving all sections of society. Since then this NSP served as the national framework for expansion and strengthening of the multi sectoral response against HIV/AIDS. Approval of a Global Fund grant and continued strong partnerships with UN and other partners provided the necessary financial resources for rapid expansion of national programs. In 2005 a second Global Fund grant enabled rapid up scaling of national-level and targeted prevention efforts… Suriname has a generalized epidemic and HIV is prevalent in all layers and groups of society. It is estimated that approximately 1.1% of the adult population (age 15-49) is infected with HIV (UNAIDS 2009 estimation workshop). Since registration of the first case of HIV in 1983, there has been an upward trend until 2006. 610 new HIV cases were reported in 2005 and 740 in 2006. From 2007 there is a decline in the number of new HIV cases seen with respectively 683 and 601 new cases in 2007 and 2008." [UNAIDS and Ministry of Health, Suriname, 2010]
- WHO-AIMS Report on Mental Health System in Suriname
"Suriname has a mental health policy, developed by the mental hospital, which is incorporated with the general health policy document of the Ministry of Health. The last version of the mental health plan was revised in 2007. The mental health policy and plan are not comprehensive and strategic. Components such as downsizing of the mental health hospital, human rights protection and a monitoring system were not in the policy and plan. A disaster preparedness plan for mental health is present, and was last revised in 2006. The Mental Health Legislation Lunacy Act was enacted in 1912 and is outdated. Components like rights of mental health consumers, family members and other care givers, accreditation of professionals and facilities, mechanisms to oversee involuntary admission and treatment practices are not included. An update concerning voluntary admissions in 2002 was passed by Parliament but procedures and standardized documents were not put in place by the government and the hospital to accommodate voluntary admissions." [WHO and Ministry of Health, (Paramaribo, Suriname), 2009]
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