• M Münster, S M Lewis, L K Erasmus, and B V Mendelow.
• Department of Haematology, South African Institute for Medical Research, Johannesburg.
• S. Afr. Med. J. 1997 Nov 1;87(11):1522-6.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the use of a robust, cheap method for haemoglobin estimation by non-laboratory-trained personnel in a rural setting.DesignComparative study.SettingTintswalo Hospital, Acornhoek.Participants7 nursing sisters, 4 medical students, 2 lay persons.Outcome MeasuresHaemoglobin estimates obtained with the colour scale were compared with the 'true Hb' values determined by the H x 3 Bayer-Technicon automated blood analyser.ResultsAlthough individuals varied in their abilities to use the colour scale, its performance was generally very good when measured against automated haemoglobinometry, as determined by bias and regression analysis and also in terms of its capacity to detect anaemia, as measured by sensitivity, specificity and positive and negative predictive values.ConclusionsHaemoglobin estimates obtained with the World Health Organisation colour scale are generally reliable, although cognisance should be taken of individual variability. While the utility of the device in monitoring response to therapy remains to be seen, it promises to be a suitable method for mass screening for anaemia.

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