Redefining the technical and organizational competences of children vaccination clinics in order to improve performance. A practical experience at the ULSS 12 Venetian Public Health and Hygiene Service.

Introduction: Since Regione Veneto suspended compulsory vaccination for children in 2008, and because of an increasing disaffection of parents to the vaccine practice, the vaccination rates have been slowly but steadily decreasing. The aim of this study was to analyze internal and external factors of immunization reduction and to implement potential solutions of the problem.

Methods: Servizio Igiene e SanitàPubblica of ULSS 12 Venezi-na (SISP - Hygiene and Public Health Service) analyzed and addressed both, the reasons of parents who do not vaccinate their children and the internal problems regarding vaccination clinics management, information to families, procedures and guidelines and, in general, the communication skills of the vaccination staff.

Insulin resistance is a risk factor for high blood pressure regardless of body size and fat distribution in obese children.

Background And Aim: The prevalence of children with hypertension is increasing, especially in obese children. This study was to assess the relationship between blood pressure, indexes of adiposity, body fat distribution and insulin resistance.

Sample: 1044 children (M/F: 484/560; aged 6-11 years).

Waist circumference as a predictor of cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors in obese girls.

Objectives: (a). to explore the relationship between waist circumference and certain cardiovascular risk factors in a group of girls; and (b). to assess the clinical relevance of waist circumference in identifying girls with higher cardiovascular risk across puberty.