American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Vol 18, 379-389, Copyright © 1966 by The American Society for Clinical Nutrition, Inc.

Malnutrition in Northern Thailand

¹ From the Department of Pediatrics, Chiengmai Hospital, University of Chiengmai, Chiengmai, Thailand

One hundred and eleven patients with protein-calorie malnutrition were admitted to the Pediatric Department of Chiengmai Hospital from January 1 to December 31, 1964, representing 9.1 per cent of total admissions. Blood chemical studies were performed and hematologic data were obtained in forty-five children, and another nineteen children were studied hematologically from January 1 to March 1, 1965. The age range, clinical behavior and biochemical results were essentially similar to the patterns reported from other countries where the disease represents a major problem.

Hemoglobin levels of less than 10 gm. per 100 ml. were found in 69 per cent of the patients upon admission. It is thought that the anemia of protein-calorie malnutrition is probably due to multiple deficiencies. The effects on bone marrow and peripheral blood of treatment with vitamin E, folic acid and iron, singly and in combination, are being investigated.

Low income is not the sole factor of etiologic significance in the development of protein-calorie malnutrition. "Displacement" of a child due to the birth of a sibling before weaning would ordinarily occur, and dietary habits which, by custom, include inadequate amounts of protein and large quantities of "overmilled" vitamin-depleted rice, are equally contributory.