Prevalence of hypertension in south-western Saudi Arabia

Prevalence of hypertension was surveyed in south-western Saudi Arabia. Hypertension was ascertained by measuring blood pressure under standard conditions and by interview for positive history. The overall prevalence was 11.1%, and the age-adjusted prevalence was 10.6% in men and 11.4% in women. Prevalence increased significantly by age. Among previously known cases, 76% were receiving treatment, but only 20% were found controlled. It is concluded that hypertension affects a sizeable proportion of Saudi communities. Further efforts are needed to improve control of the disease

Clinical and laboratory features of childhood visceral leishmaniasis in south western Saudi Arabia

The clinical and laboratory features of visceral leishmaniasis [VL] were studied in 51 children at Abha in southwestern Saudi Arabia, an area endemic for the disease. The majority of patients came from the coastal Tihama Valley or had visited the Valley from the hills. There was a predilection for infants and young children [median age 18 months]. A double quotidian fever pattern was observed in half the patients. Splenomegaly was noted to be more common and more severe than hepatomegaly. Important hematological features were anemia, often severe, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia. Common biochemical abnormalities included hepatic dysfunction, hypoalbuminemia and hyperglobulinemia. The hematological and biochemical changes noted in VL are nonspecific. Our findings are compared with those from other endemic areas. Saudi Arabian VL resembles the Mediterranean form of the disease