[The results of school health exams in Montcada y Reixac (Barcelona). The 1991-92 school year].

Abstract

Background: The results of the school health examinations (SHE) carried out in school children attending P4 and 1st of EGB (aged between 4 and 8 years) from the public schools of Montcada y Reixac (Barcelona) during the academic year 1991-92 were evaluated.

Methods: 310 school children (157 boys and 153 girls) were studied. The following variables were analysed: weight and height by percentiles (using Tanner's standards): the percentage of vaccinations administered: and the prevalence of anomalies according to the current SHE program in Catalonia.

Results: From a general point of view, the weight and height values were higher than expected. The administering of vaccinations was poor (66%: 95% confidence interval (CI) = 61.5%-70.4%). A high prevalence of squinted vision (6.2%: 95% CI = 4.1%-8.2%) and a good absence of caries index (76.7%: 95% CI = 71.1%-82.2%) were observed. During the examination of male genital organs, a higher percentage of non-palpable testicles in the scrotum amongst boys aged 6-8 years versus boys aged 4-5 years was observed (14.9% vs 9.8%).

Conclusions: The weight-and-height standards used and the efficiency of the program for caries prevention were discussed. It was recommended that the reasons for some of the anomalies found be investigated and that more control over routine vaccination certificates be implemented.