Study of health problems and socio-economic background of first year undergraduates attending the medical centre at the University of Kelaniya.

Abstract

This study was undertaken to study the common health problems, socioeconomic background and personals habits of the first year undergraduates. It was seen that about half of the students belonged to economically and socially underprivileged sectors of the population. Consultation rate among economically underprivileged students were higher than that of students from economically privileged sectors. Illnesses commonly encountered were viral upper respiratory tract infections, superficial mycoses, dental caries, periodontal disease and emotional disorders. This study carried out scientifically with minimum inputs of resources should guide the health care providers in planning and reorganization of student health services and provide a baseline for future research in related fields.