Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 18, 2026
Trajectory Data Analyses for Pedestrian Space-time Activity Study
Published on: February 25, 2013
A comparison of travel related ID admissions in Glasgow: (1985; 1998/99)
J H Cossar1, E Wilson, D H Kennedy
1Scottish Centre for Infection and Environmental Health, Glasgow. jon.cossar@scieh.csa.scot.nhs.uk
Abstract:
A comparative study was made of patients admitted over 12 months to the principal infectious diseases unit for Glasgow in 1985 and in 1998/99. During this interval UK travel statistics show a 135% growth in visits abroad and a 5% rise to 17% in destinations with a risk of malaria. Travel associated admissions rose by 96% to a total of 108. Patients of Asian/Oriental ethnicity declined from 55% to 18%, whilst Caucasians increased from 38% to 81%. Travellers aged 20-39 years formed the modal age groups (51% and 50%). Gastro-intestinal problems accounted for the largest single diagnostic category in both study periods, 38% and 40% respectively. In-patients diagnosed with malaria fell by 20%; these figures are cause for encouragement to those involved in the teaching and dissemination of advice on malaria prophylaxis. The findings re-enforce the need for the continuation and expansion of travel health education for both healthcare professionals and the public.
Insights
Travel-related infectious disease admissions increased significantly, with a notable shift in patient demographics and a decrease in malaria diagnoses. Enhanced travel health education remains crucial for travelers and healthcare professionals.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Travel Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- International travel has surged, increasing exposure to infectious diseases.
- Malaria risk destinations have seen a rise in UK travel.
- Understanding trends in travel-associated illness is vital for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare patient demographics and diagnoses in an infectious diseases unit between 1985 and 1998/99.
- To analyze changes in travel-associated admissions and specific diseases like malaria.
- To assess the impact of travel trends on hospital admissions for infectious diseases.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of patient data from an infectious diseases unit.
- Inclusion of 12-month admission periods from 1985 and 1998/99.
- Review of UK travel statistics and destination risk factors.
Main Results:
- Travel-associated admissions increased by 96%.
- Asian/Oriental ethnicity patients decreased from 55% to 18%, while Caucasians increased from 38% to 81%.
- Malaria diagnoses among inpatients decreased by 20%, despite increased travel to risk areas.
Conclusions:
- Despite increased travel to malaria-endemic regions, malaria diagnoses decreased, suggesting improved prophylaxis awareness.
- Shifting demographics in travelers admitted require updated health education strategies.
- Continued and expanded travel health education for healthcare professionals and the public is essential.
