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Vitamin A deficiency in Afghanistan

Lisa D Mihora1, Kalpana K Jatla, Tom Little

  • 1University of Tennessee--Chattanooga Unit, Department of Ophthalmology, 975 East Street, Chattanooga, TN 37403, USA. lisamihora@yahoo.com

Eye & Contact Lens
|October 23, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Vitamin A deficiency is a significant public health issue in Kabul, Afghanistan. This study found high rates of night blindness and other ocular signs in children and lactating mothers.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Ophthalmology
  • Nutrition

Background:

  • Vitamin A deficiency remains a critical global health concern, particularly affecting vulnerable populations.
  • Ocular manifestations are key indicators of vitamin A deficiency (VAD).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the prevalence of vitamin A deficiency in children (≤6 years), lactating mothers, and women of childbearing age in Kabul City, Afghanistan.
  • To identify the extent of ocular signs indicative of VAD.

Main Methods:

  • A cross-sectional study was conducted in Kabul City between August and September 2000.
  • Random sampling was employed across all 13 districts to select participants.
  • Ocular examinations were performed to detect signs of VAD.

Main Results:

  • Increased prevalence of night blindness, Bitot's spot, corneal ulceration, and corneal scars were observed.
  • These findings align with World Health Organization criteria for VAD.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin A deficiency poses a moderate to severe public health problem in Kabul City.
  • Children and lactating mothers are particularly affected populations requiring targeted interventions.
Abstract

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