Study to assess conditions associated with xerophthalmia and compliance of VADD control programme among children in rural area of Salem
Journal Title: Medpulse International Journal of Pediatrics - Year 2019, Vol 9, Issue 2
Abstract
Background: As a vitamin, A deficiency progresses, the epithelial tissues of the eye become severely altered. Xerophthalmia is a very characteristic lesion of Vitamin A deficiency. The plasma retinol level is not an accurate indicator of vitamin A status unless the deficiency is severe and the liver stores are depleted. These eye lesions are primarily diseases of the young and are a major cause of blindness in developing countries. Aim of The Study: To assess conditions associated with Xerophthalmia and compliance of VADD control programme among children inthe rural area of Salem. Methodology: This Retrospective study was done in children aged 1-5 years attending Anganwadi and schools in the rural area of Salem. Totally 500 children were included in the study. Data was collected regarding socio-economic status, diet, illness (diarrhea, worm infestation, the recent history of measles, recurrent respiratory infections), immunization status (including measles) vitamin A intake and anthropometry. Children were then examined for any signs of VAD which was graded according to WHO classification. Results: We examined 500 children for signs of VAD among them Boys between 4-5 years are more affected than girls. Xerophthalmia is more prevalent in children belonging to poor SES, with inadequate consumption of vitamin A rich foods. VAD was also found to be associated with Anaemia, history of measles and PEM. Out of 500 children, 75% had received a dose of vitamin A indicating satisfactory compliance with vitamin A supplementation program. Conclusion: In the present study Xerophthalmia was found to be less prevalent when compared to the W.H.O defined critical level. There was only satisfactory compliance with vitamin A supplementation program. Hence there is a need to detect VAD at an early stage by including trained personnel in rural health programmes. Vitamin A deficiency was significantly associated with anemia, PEM, previous history of measles in children.
Authors and Affiliations
K Rangasamy
Keywords
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- DOI 10.26611/1014925 8
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