Lead exposure and sociodemographic parameters affecting the cognitive function of a sample of children in Qalyoubia governorate

This cross-sectional, short term study is conducted in Benha city at randomly selected primary school. The target group is 100- randomly chosen- children of the 4th and 5th grades. They were subjected to a structured questionnaire for personal and familial data. IQ - is assessed using Stanford Beneit test. Blood samples were drawn to determine haemoglubin level as well as blood lead level. Scholastic achievement of the target group was measured using the mean of the last 3 months marks. Analysing data of the study reveals that 64% of children included in the study were urban residents while the remaining 36% were rural inhabitants. Urban inhabitants show statistically significant higher percentage for normal IQ. The present study reveals that Hb.%, blood lead level, mother's smoking as well as residence significantly affect the IQ. of children. Regarding scholastic achievement as an indicator for cognitive function it was found that Hb.%, blood lead level as well as I.Q. are the best predictors. Monitoring [Both environmental and Biological] is required to assess lead level in the environment as well as blood lead level. Environmental sources of lead and its hazards are required to be highlighted. Mass screening of school children for anaemia is required and subsequently proper treatment for anaemia and anaemia predisposing conditions. Finally hazards of smoking, especially by mothers, is required to be highlighted

Morbidity problems, functional dependency and adjustment among elders attending outpatient clinics of Benha University Hospital

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted during the year 1999. Subjects of this study were 340 elders [148 males and 192 females] chosen randomly from patients or their relatives who were attending the Outpatient Clinics of Benha University Hospital. The aim of the research was to identify the morbidity problems of elders, study their functional dependence and their social and psychological adjustment. The participants were interviewed using a pre-tested questionnaire including personal and sociodemographic data, past and present history of common diseases, smoking habit, daily activities and pattern of utlilization of health services. The target group was subjected to general and systematic medical examination, estimation of blood glucose and assessment of social and psychololgical adjustment. Data management revealed that the majority of the studied group were aged 60-70 years. of poor education and working [75.3%, 71.5%, 62.9% respectively]. The majority [92.1%] of rural residents were living in extended families. High percentage of the studied sample were non-smokers and of poor utilization of health services [77.9%. 74.4% respectively]. The most frequent medical disorder was osteoarthritis and back path [55.3%] followed by hypertension [50.9%]. Bereavement and fear of death were found to be the most injurious psychological insults. About three quarters [76.5%] of elders were functionally independent in activities of daily living [ADLs]. The majority of socially and psychologically adjusted elderly were females, aged 60-70 years. living in rural areas, in extended families and working. The study recommends fully integration of geriatric health services within the primary health care and training of professional personnel in gerontology to perform frequent comprehensive medical examination of the elders and assessment of their functional activities. Multisectoral integrated efforts are required for helping and caring after this vulnerable sector-the elderly group