Intestinal parasitoses and the nutritional status of Veddah children in Sri Lanka.
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Date
2004-06-05
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Abstract
This study describes and compares the intestinal parasitoses and nutritional statuses of primary school children of Veddah (local indigenous population) and Sinhalese (more advanced society) in rural Sri Lanka. Children attending years 1-3 (age range 6-15 years) at Dambana Primary School (Veddah) and Wewatta Primary School (Sinhalese) were included in the study. Stools and blood samples were examined for evidence of intestinal parasites and anemia. The heights and weights of the children were measured and anthropometric indices calculated. There was a high prevalence of G. intestinalis and B. hominis (Giardia 7.8% and 6.2%; Blastocystis 17.2% and 17.3% at Dambana and Wewatta, respectively) in both communities, the predominant helminth being N. americanus (20.3% at Dambana and 14.8% at Wewatta; p>0.05). Other geohelminth infections were scarce in both communities. A greater proportion of boys than girls were underweight and stunted in both communities. Wasting and anemia was significantly high among the Veddah children.
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The Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health.
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Chandrasena TG, de Alwis AC, de Silva LD, Morel RP, de Silva NR. Intestinal parasitoses and the nutritional status of Veddah children in Sri Lanka. The Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health. 2004 Jun; 35(2): 255-9