A study of children's health in S.Paulo city (Brazil), 1984-1985: I - Methodological aspects, socioeconomic characteristics and physical environment

Abstract

A survey was carried out in S.Paulo city (Brazil), between April 1984 and June 1985, with the aim of verifying the health status of children under five years of age. A probabilistic sample of 1,016 children was studied by means of household interviews and clinical examinations focusing on socioeconomic, housing and sanitation aspects, food intake, nutritional status, morbidity and maternal and child care. Aspects of the survey's methodology are highlighted and emphasis is given to the sampling process and data collection. The analysis demonstrates that the results which emerged from the sample are truly representative. Socioeconomic and environmental characteristics of the sample are also described and indicate the existence of increased risk for infant and child health in S.Paulo city: nearly two thirds of children belong to low income families and more than half live in houses without watersupply or sewage facilities. Furthermore, around 20% are living in slums and shanty towns and more than one third share just one room with the whole family.