Socioeconomic changes and reduction in prevalence of schistosomiasis in Puerto Rico
Bhajan, M.M.; Martínez, V.; Ruíz-Tiben, E.; Jobin, W.R.
Boletin de la Asociacion Medica de Puerto Rico 70(4): 106-112
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-4849 PMID: 274955 Document Number: 700010
An attempt was made to correlate living conditions in Puerto Rico, monitored by US government censuses in 1960 and 1970, with the prevalence of schistosomiasis in schoolchildren (measured by intradermal reactions) in 1963 and 1969. The analysis dealt with the 26 municipalities within the endemic zone where no snail control was under way. The strongest correlation was found between improved water supply and a decrease in prevalence of intradermal reactions. Improved sewage disposal and increases in education were not correlated with decreased prevalence. There was a slight correlation between net migration into urban areas and a fall in prevalence in those areas.