Indochinese refugee health assessment and treatment.

Many southeast Asian refugees have resettled in the US. This report reviews data from 426 refugees who underwent comprehensive examination and treatment at the Mayo Clinic. Health problems identified were primarily selected contagious illnesses and stress syndromes with functional complaints. Counseling was necessary in 17% of the adults for psychosomatic problems or psychiatric disorders. When family planning issues were applicable and addressed 80% of the women chose some method of contraception. The prevalence rate of intestinal parasites was 82% and pathogens necessitated persistent treatment and follow-up. Tuberculosis skin sensitivity testing was positive in 54%; the risk of active disease warrants prophylactic treatment until age 35. Hepatitis antigen was positive in 13%; precautions should be taken for potentially exposed professionals. Hematologic genetic disorders were very common and accounted for most of the 25% incidence of microcytosis. Physicians should become aware of cultural attitudes and treatment acceptance among Indochinese patients and should carefully investigate for infectious disease. (authors)