Nutritional deficiency disorders and high mortality among children of the Great Andamanese tribe (original) (raw)

The National medical journal of India

Abstract

The population of the Great Andamanese tribe of the Andaman Islands has been declining at a rapid pace. The case fatality rate during a recent outbreak of dysentery was 30.8%, all the deaths being among under-fives. As malnutrition is known to potentiate susceptibility to death due to infectious diseases, we undertook a study to determine the prevalence of malnutrition among the Great Andamanese tribe and its role in contributing to the high mortality among them due to infectious diseases. The study included a diet survey, nutritional anthropometry, clinical examination, haemoglobin estimation and stool examination for intestinal parasitic infestations. Information was also collected about every pregnancy in all ever-married women in the community and deaths of their children. All 36 members of the tribe were covered. The Andamanese had a poor intake of iron, vitamin A and riboflavin but a good intake of energy, protein and fats. More than 85% of the children below 6 years were unde...

A.P. Sugunan hasn't uploaded this paper.

Let A.P. know you want this paper to be uploaded.

Ask for this paper to be uploaded.