Health Profile of Balhareth area in Taif Region

OBJECTIVE: To describe demographic, socio-economic, environmental factors and general health status of one of the rural and semi-urban areas around Taif city at the western province of the Kingdom. METHODOLOGY: A cross sectional multipurpose survey for 2 weeks composed of household and school surveys using questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and physical and dental examinations. RESULTS: 340 houses and 14 schools were surveyed. A higher percentage of young age population was found. Findings indicated a high illiteracy rate especially among females. Environmental status of the area was not optimum with a need for better services. Maternal data indicated a high fertility rate with high rate of unattended deliveries. Breast feeding was a common practice and children pattern of feeding was satisfactory. School survey revealed a lower weight and height compared to NCHS population and a high rate of dental caries. CONCLUSION: The area was not underprivileged and did not show specific endemic disease pattern. Improvements in the areas of sanitation, female education and school dental education is recommended based on the findings.