SCHOOL SCREENING FOR SCOLIOSIS IN SAUDI-ARABIA

A total of 26 662 schoolchildren aged between 6 and 16 years in the el ementary and intermediate levels, in Khobar, Dammam, Qatif and Hassa w ere examined for scoliosis using Adam's forward bending test. Sixty-si x cases were detected by screeners and referred to a specialist clinic at King Fahd Hospital. This finding gives a prevalence of 248 per 100 000. Thirty-six cases were confirmed as true spinous scoliosis and tr eatment was commenced where indicated. The controversy of school scree ning is discussed in the light of our experience and the recommendatio ns made.