Evaluation of Preschool Screening Program in the Kingdom of Bahrain: A Survey in Primary Healthcare Centers

Abstract

Background: Preschool screening is one of the services provided by primary healthcare centers, in the Kingdom of Bahrain, for children aged 5 to 6 years. This service includes assessing growth and development parameters, which includes measuring hemoglobin levels, conducting vision examinations, and administering Purified Protein Derivative (PPD) tests. Objectives: To evaluate the prevalence of anemia, reduced visual acuity, and positive PPD tests, in children’s preschool screening. Methodology: This survey was conducted in 25 primary healthcare centers, between the period of January to March 2020, with a total sample size of 2,637 children. Electronic preschool screening visit sheets, of children who attended the health centers for screening, were reviewed and evaluated. Results: Out of the 2,637 records reviewed; anemia, reduced visual acuity, and positive PPD tests, were found in 19.9%, 4.7%, and 0.45% of children, respectively. Conclusion: The overall prevalence of reduced visual acuity and positive PPD tests was low. On the other hand, although the overall prevalence of anemia was also low, at about 20%, this can be reduced further by raising physicians’ adherence to anemia management guidelines, at earlier ages. Moreover, further studies are needed to assess the causes and risks of anemia in this age group.