How the poor die in the settlements of Port Moresby, 2003-2004
Sims, P.
Papua and New Guinea medical journal 47(3-4): 192-201
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0031-1480 PMID: 16862943 Document Number: 582137
A study of death and dying was carried out in the settlements of Port Moresby in 2003 and 2004. This descriptive study of 53 patients indicated that they are dying from chronic illnesses, particularly tuberculosis and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection. They are dying slowly over several weeks with minimum care from the health services. The study also showed the problem of violent deaths by guns, by stabbing, by beatings and by police in pursuit of criminals. The lack of a well-coordinated ambulance service leads to preventable deaths in road accidents and in childbirth.