ABSTRACT
We assessed anthropometric indicators of the nutritional status among children and adolescents in Khammouane Province in the Lao PDR and examined the relation between malnutrition and malaria infection. The survey was conducted from July to August 1999 using a sample of 309 youths aged 2 to 18 years. Malnutrition was categorized as stunting (below -2 Z scores height-for-age) and wasting (below -2 Z scores weight-for-height). The prevalence of stunting and wasting were 45.1% and 9.2%, respectively, which were classified by WHO as "very high" prevalence. Compared with the results of previous national surveys in Lao PDR, similar prevalence was shown. The prevalence of wasting in youths with P. falciparum infection was 17%, significantly higher than those of not infected (4%). On the other hand, P. vivax infection was not associated with any indicators of malnutrition. In conclusion, this study showed that the nutritional status in youths was poor and P. falciparum infection was associated with acute malnutrition.
Subject(s)
Adolescent , Anthropometry , Child , Child, Preschool , Cross-Sectional Studies , Female , Humans , Laos/epidemiology , Malaria, Falciparum/complications , Male , Nutritional Status , Prevalence , Wasting Syndrome/complicationsABSTRACT
In the Ryukyu Archipelago, where malaria used to be endemic, eradication of the disease was achieved by the year 1962, as a consequential effect of a planned malaria eradication program in the area. This achievement was facilitated by concerted efforts in controlling vector mosquitos and treatment of all detected and presumptive cases of malaria infections. Anopheles minimus Theobald and An. sinensis Wiedemann were common in all areas endemic for malaria. Knowledge of the biology and bionomics of the mosquitos in malaria endemic areas formed the basis for formulating strategies for the control of vectors and subsequent surveillance activities. Insecticide residual spray, larvivorous fishes and environmental management were the basic strategies for vector control. The whole program was augmented by an active community participation in all eradication activities.