Parasitic infections among Egyptian adolescents and its association with anemia: a national study

A national survey of adolescents aged 10 to 19 years was conducted in Egypt, in 1997. This study describes results of stool and urine analysis for the presence of parasites and their association with anemia. 1,953 adolescents submitted either urine or stool sample and 1,904 provided a blood sample. 45.2% harboured a parasite and protozoa showed higher proportions than helminths, with Giardia lamblia [24.2%] as the most common parasitic protozoan. Area of residence was a significant predictor for infection where adolescents from Lower and Upper Egypt showed higher rates than those from urban governorates. Anemia was significantly associated with Schistosoma haematobium, Ascaris lumbricoides and with multiple parasites. Results suggest a need for implementing a national control program

Child feeding patterns in the Middle East

A diversity in infant feeding patterns exists throughout the Middle East. Wide variations in cultures, languages, ethnic background, religions and social practices should be taken into consideration, when designing programs to promote appropriate feeding practices. Strategies applied in one community might not be appropriate for another. In order to be effective, these should be incorporated into overall primary health care programs

Physical growth and mental development of normal head circumference: Egyptian infants in a normal population

The relationship between head circumference [HC] and physical growth and mental development has been investigated by many scientists. They studied the circumference of the head of children at different ages and compared it to their physical growth, developmental and intellectual outcome, school achievement, and behavior. Our study was carried out in an Egyptian village. Infants were followed up for HC, weight, and length from birth to six months of age. The infants were also tested for developmental outcome using mental developmental index [MDI] of Bayley scales for Infants Development at the age of six months. Statistical analysis of the data collected showed no association between HC at birth, HC at 6 months of age, or velocity of head growth during the first six months of age and any of MDI, weight, or length at 6 months of age