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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

Summary

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.

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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.

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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.