Preliminary clinical and anthropometric findings from the first Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, USA, 1971-1972.

Eight percent of Negroes between the ages of 45 to 59 had hepatomegaly. Tongue signs and absent knee and ankle jerks were more prevalent in Negroes ages 45 to 74; they also had lower urinary excretion of thiamine and riboflavin than Whites. Bowed legs and knock knees were more frequent in Negroes ages 1 to 17 and Negro women 18 to 44. Prevalence of bleeding, swollen gums was highest in Negroes ages 45 to 59. Both grade I and II goiter were more prevalent in Negroes at all ages except men 18 to 59. Chvostek's sign indicating possible calcium deficiency was more frequent in Negroes at all ages with two exceptions. Major anthropometric findings will also be presented.