Diagnoses Reported in Health Programs for Workers and their Families in Brazil, 1944-45 *

It is a common belief that malaria is the leading health menace of the tropics. Brazil lies for the most part between 40 N. and 300 S., and in many areas is highly malarious. Stitt declares that malaria is the most prevalent and most serious disease of Amazonia and that the lower Rio Branco is probably one of the worst malarial regions in the world. Davis found that the highest rates of malarial infection in central or northern Brazil occurred in the states of Para, Amazonas, and Bahia, in the order given. However, a review of available literature of the last decade discloses no studies on the comparative importance of malaria as a cause of illness in that country. Figures available from medical care programs conducted by the Inter-American Cooperative Health Services in two areas of Brazil indicate that the diseases prevalent in temperate zones occupy a more important position than is usually recognized among the ailments of tropic dwellers. The Cooperative Services, working as a part of National Departments of Health in 18 countries, have provided improved facilities for preventive and therapeutic care through 100 demonstration health centers and 75 hospitals, including tuberculosis sanatoria and leprosaria. Additional health personnel are being prepared through local training programs, which include aid in the development of 13 Schools of Nursing and short courses for physicians, engineers, nurses, sanitarians, midwives, laboratory technicians, and hospital administrators, and by provision of fellowships for study in the United States. Sanitary engineers are directing the installation of water supplies, sewerage systems, and mosquito control drainage, and are assisting in the extension of rural