Micronutrient Status in Sri Lanka: A Review.

Micronutrients include vitamins, minerals and, trace elements that are required in minute quantities but play a vital role in normal human growth, development and physiological functioning. Micronutrient deficiencies, also known as hidden hunger, are a global issue, with particularly high prevalence rates in developing countries. Currently, Sri Lanka is experiencing the double burden of over- and undernutrition. This review describes the micronutrient status of Sri Lanka based on results of national surveys and related articles published from 2000. The available data suggest a higher prevalence of iron, zinc, calcium, folate, and vitamin A deficiencies. The prevalence of iodine deficiency has declined gradually following the implementation of a universal salt iodization program. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anemia and low red blood cell indices. Females are more vulnerable to micronutrient deficiencies than males. The coexistence of multiple micronutrient deficiencies and concurrent macro- and micronutrient deficiencies is common. Studies have shown an association between micronutrient deficiencies and different demographic, socioeconomic, and dietary factors. Therefore, there is a need for comprehensive studies, nutritional policies, and nationwide intervention programs in Sri Lanka to improve the micronutrient status of the population.

Association of urinary 8-OHdG with lifestyle and body composition in elderly natural disaster victims living in emergency temporary housing.

OBJECTIVES: Residents who lost land and houses due to disasterous heavy rainfall-related events on July 13, 2004 and the Chuetsu Earthquake on October 23, 2004 were moved to emergency temporary housing. The change in life style due to living under such conditions is assumed to increase oxidative stress level. In this study, we investigated the oxidative stress level in elderly residents of emergency temporary housing, and analyzed its association with lifestyle and body composition following these disasters. METHODS: A noninvasive oxidative stress marker, urinary 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and body composition were measured in 73 elderly residents of emergency temporary housing. RESULTS: In the elderly female residents, the urinary 8-OHdG level tended to decrease with time after the disasters. 8-OHdG levels were slightly higher in females than males and significantly higher among those who exercised regularly compared to those who did not, particularly in females. A weak correlation was noted between the urinary 8-OHdG level and muscle ratio in females. CONCLUSIONS: The in vivo oxidative stress level in our study cohort of elderly residents of emergency temporary housing changed following the change in life style, but remained within the normal range. The increase in oxidative stress levels of elderly females was related to menopause. A decrease in estrogen levels due to menopause inhibits its antioxidant effects, which increases 8-OHdG levels. Although it is difficult to determine, a decrease in daily stressors over time following the disaster could be a cause of the decrease in oxidative stress levels. We suggest that the close evaluation of the stress level of disaster victims is desirable, in combination with evidence of antioxidative substances and the psychosocial influence of suffering as a consequence of the disaster.