Morbidity pattern of pre-school children in Derna- Libya [2007]

ABSTRACT

To assess the current health status and morbidity pattern among preschool children at Derna, Libya during 2007. This study was conducted in all the three kindergartens in Derna between [15/10/2007 and 15/11/2007], the total number of children was 770. In addition, 1000 children [3-5 years old] presented to outpatient paediatric clinic- Derna between [1/6/2007 and 31/12/207] were included in the study. General examination and assessment of all body systems [Eye, ENT, teeth, skin, chest, CNS, abdomen and cardiovascular systems were examined and evaluated]. As regards morbidity pattern in kindergartens in Derna [287 morbidity cases of total 770 children], dental cares was highly frequent at 28.7%. As regards children [3-5 years old] presented to outpatient paediatric clinic- Derna, the mean value of weight was 14.6 +/- 2.7 Kg, height was 109 +/- 5.4 cm. head circumference was 48.7 +/- 8.6 cm, hemoglobin was 10.8 +/- 1.48 gm/dl and total leukocytes was 7.1 +/- 2.4/1000 cc. Fever represented 52.2%, diarrhea 28.2%, colic 23.8%, rash or itching 22.3%, cough, wheeze, rhinitis 19.6%, enuresis 19.6% and poor appetite 13.0% of cases. Respiratory tract infections represented 44.4%, gastroenteritis 22.2%, dental caries 22%, normal for follow up 13.3%, UTI 8.9%, Colic 6.7%, others 4.4% of cases. Results of the present study proved the need of intervention to prevent morbidity conditions as education about dental health, good hygiene and proper nutrition and must be early detection of these cases with early intervention as squint and error of refraction to prevent complication