HYPOVITAMINOSIS-A AND ITS CONTROL

  • 1 January 1978
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 56  (4) , 525-541
Abstract
Hypovitaminosis A is considered to be the most common cause of blindness in the developing countries but it is not possible to estimate the prevalence of keratomalacia directly attributable to it. Subclinical hypovitaminosis A is not measurable at present in humans, but studies in animals indicate that the possibility of subclinical effects should not be ignored. The recommended procedure for identifying the at risk population involves a 3-part survey to evaluate dietary intake, biochemical indices and clinical signs. All 3 approaches are examined in some detail, but in the present state of knowledge, none of them gives a satisfactory estimate of vitamin A status. For community assessment, preliminary experience is discussed with a predictive model of the number of children in a population at risk of hypovitaminosis A that is based on associations noted repeatedly between protein-energy malnutrition and certain child-rearing practices, family economics and morbidity. Criteria were established for deciding the need for a program of prevention and the types of program most appropriate in different situations are discussed. The methods of program evaluation must take into account the stated objectives of the program.

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