The American Journal of Public Health (AJPH) has announced a call for papers for its special October 2002 issue devoted to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

This CAM issue, the first to be published by the American Public Health Association, is in recognition of the "significant funding challenges and meager outlets for publishing public health research on CAM." The deadline for research submissions for this special CAM issue is February 1, 2002.

"Original unpublished research is urgently needed to advance understanding of CAM and its potential to further public health," said Vincent Silenzio, MD, MPH, in a letter announcing the call for papers. "Research addressing indigenous health systems, special populations, or underrepresented groups is especially encouraged," he added.

Dr. Silenzio noted certain parameters to follow when submitting: "Papers that report the results of original quantitative or qualitative public health research are published as articles (up to 3,500 words, four tables/figures, and a structured abstract of 120 words). Preliminary or novel findings may be reported as briefs (up to 800 words, two tables/figures, no abstract)." The "Instructions for Authors" (accessible on line at www.ajph.org/misc/ifora.shtml), illuminate the specifics of submitting a paper for consideration in the special issue.

APHA is the oldest, largest, and most influential public health association in the world, with more than 50,000 members from over 50 occupations of public health. The AJPH describes itself as the "number one publication dedicated to original work in research, research methods, and program evaluation in the field of public health." Papers considered for publication in the AJPH undergo rigorous peer review. The journal also publishes editorials and commentaries that serve as a forum for health policy.

This is a rare opportunity for massage research to be published in this special CAM issue. Let's make sure that the journal's readership, many of whom are health administrators, planners, educators and information specialists, are aware of the latest findings from the massage research community, and the overall value of massage therapy in public health.