Morbidity characteristics of the population attended by the São José do Rio Preto (State of S. Paulo, Brazil) School Model Public Helath Center - 1974

Abstract

The methodology used by a University Health Center, during one year, in order to diagnose the morbidity of a population through the demand, is presented by the authors. A high prevalence of gastro-enteric parasites ivas observed with characteristics that are peculiar to the region, as giardiasis, hook-worm and strongiloidiasis in different age groups. Anemia was also observed, especially in the group under fourteen years of age. The results of serologic diagnosis of Chagas' Disease and Syphilis are discussed and compared with those of the whole 8th Administrative Region of the State of S. Paulo. The authors discuss the differences observed, during the year, among the frequency of three great groups of infectious diseases. The causes of such findings are also discussed especially as regards water and food borne diseases. The hospital demands resulting from this out-patient service are also analysed.