Development and validation of a simple index system to predict nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Background/aims: Abdominal ultrasonography is useful for the detection and diagnosis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The aims of this study were to establish a predictive model for the selection of subjects for abdominal ultrasonography for the diagnosis of NAFLD and to assess validity of the model.

Methods: The subjects included 901 people who visited the health examination center of the Busan Medical Center.

Medical needs of tsunami disaster refugee camps.

Background And Objectives: In response to the massive tsunami disaster in South Asia, two Korean medical relief teams provided emergency medical care in the southern coastal area of Sri Lanka. Their findings are reported here to provide a realistic picture of medical needs created by the tsunami disaster and to enable a better-prepared medical response to future disasters of this type.

Methods: All victims of the tsunami in the area of operation of the two medical relief teams were encouraged to receive medical care.