Epidemiology of heart disease in school children in rural and urban areas
Vichitbandha, P.; Podhipleux, P.; Prachuabmoh, C.; Nana, A.; Kongsamran, S.; Rungpitarungsi, B.; Chantatipyan, V.; Cholpradith, P.; Piyaman, Y.; Songthanasak, C.; Supranapat, J.; Chansiritang, P.; Muthapranung, S.
Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand 64(1): 1-10
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0125-2208 PMID: 7217815 Document Number: 173332
An epidemiological survey of rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart diseases was done in a rural area at Songpinong District and in an urban area at Bangkokinoi District, Thailand. The target population was children of school age between 5-14 yr. There were 4773 rural children, 2369 boys and 2404 girls, and 5070 urban children, 2585 boys and 2485 girls. The prevalence of rheumatic and congenital heart disease was reported with comparison between rural and urban rates. Types of lesions were studied in both rheumatic and congenital defects. Seventy rural families were visited and interviewed to determine the socioeconomic and living conditions. The nutritional status of the children examined was determined. The prevalence of rheumatic fever and heart disease in Thailand remains high. At the end of the Fourth National Socioeconomic Plan in 1981 the improvement of socioeconomic status and the health care system should be achieved and the prevalence of rheumatic fever should decline. Prevention and early detection are important in preventing further damage to the heart.