Nutritional status, dietary intake and disease patterns in rural Hereros, Kavangos and Bushmen in South West Africa/Namibia

A survey of Hereros, Kavangos and Bushmen living in the rural districts of South West Africa/Namibia was undertaken in order to assess their dietary intakes, nutritional status and disease patterns. The results showed that Hereros were taller and heavier, with the highest incidence of obesity (15-30%) and hypertension. Their diet consisted chiefly of refined maize meal supplemented with sour milk, and their blood lipid levels were generally lower than Western standards. The diet of Kavangos, based on homeground millet supplemented with fish and fresh vegetables, was better balanced. However, malnutrition was more common particularly in hospital patients where 40% had infective disease. Finally, the diet of Bushmen was extremely poor consisting of whatever was available (generally maize meal) and excessive use of home-brewed alcohol. The majority were malnourished and 73% of those hospitalised had tuberculosis. The blood lipid levels of Bushmen and Kavangos were exceptionally 'favourable' by Western standards but associated with chronic malnutrition. The survival of Bushmen in modern society is a matter of grave concern.