Malnutrition and helminth infestation among preschool children in Pullumalai

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Over the past few decades there has been a marked reduction in the overall prevalence of mahiutrition and helminth infestation in Sri Lanka. But malnutrition and helminth infestation are likely to have higher than the average prevalence in parts of the country directly affected by the civil war. The present study was undertaken to determine the prevalence of mahiutrition and helminth infestation among preschool children living in a part of Batticaloa District where people had returned to their homes after the ceasefire agreement (CFA) signed in March 2002. METHODS: Children aged between 30 to 60 months attending the 11 preschools in Pullumalai PHI range hi the Chenkalady MOH area constituted the study population. Nutritional status was assessed by measuring height, weight and haemoglobin level using capillary blood and a colour chart. Those weighing less than two standard deviation below the mean weight for age were classified as underweight. Saline smears of stool samples were examined under a light microscope for evidence of helminth infestation. Parents were interviewed to collect information about economic condition and availability and use of sanitary facilities. Data were collected from February to April 2005. RESULTS: Only 8% of households had a toilet and 30% of households obtained water from surface water sources. None of them routinely boiled their drinking water. Out of the 276 children, 56% were found to be underweight, 40% were anaemic and 39% had evidence of helminth infestation. DISCUSSION: The poor economic environment and the lack of infrastructure facilities have probably led to this situation. It appears that the peace dividend has not yet reached the people most affected by the war, three years after the signing of the CFA.