A prospective cohort study estimated the incidence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in drug injectors in South Wales (UK). In total, 286/481 eligible seronegative individuals were followed up after approximately 12 months. Dried blood spot samples were collected and tested for anti-HCV antibody and behavioural data were collected at baseline and follow-up. HCV incidence was 5.9/100 person-years [95% confidence interval (CI) 3.4-9.5]. HCV incidence was predicted by community size [incident rate ratio (IRR) 6.6, 95% CI 2.11-20.51, P = 0.001], homelessness (IRR 2.9, 95% CI 1.02-8.28, P = 0.047) and sharing injecting equipment (IRR 12.7, 95% CI 1.62-99.6, P = 0.015). HCV incidence was reduced in individuals in opiate substitution treatment (IRR 0.34, 95% CI 0.12-0.99, P = 0.047). In order to reduce follow-up bias we used multiple imputation of missing data using switching regression; after imputation estimated HCV incidence was 8.5/100 person-years (95% CI 5.4-12.7). HCV incidence varies with community size, equipment sharing and homelessness are associated with increased HCV incidence and opiate substitution treatment may be protective against HCV.

A total of 208 women were assessed 2 years' post-delivery to record the prevalence of subjective urinary and faecal incontinence, incontinence of flatus, dyspareunia, subjective depression and sexual satisfaction. This was correlated with mode of delivery. A sample population was selected from the Cardiff Birth Survey Database, in accordance with strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Each woman was invited to complete and return a postal questionnaire addressing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. There was a significant decrease in sexual satisfaction scores in women who underwent vaginal delivery in comparison with those who underwent elective caesarean section at 2 years follow-up. There was also a significant increase in the prevalence of urinary incontinence, incontinence of flatus, dyspareunia and subjective depression in women who underwent vaginal delivery.

Perception of asymmetry is affected by the amount of asymmetry and the observer group, with orthodontists being more critical.

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