Title : Determination of incidence of intestinal parasites infestation in population of district Swat Pakistan
Abstract:
Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) represent a worldwide health concern, and they are the most prevalent infections within a specific local population. A recent study aimed to determine the occurrence of IPIs and identify the contributing factors responsible for the transmission of these infection. The current study was conducted for four months (from April 2023 to July 2023). A total of 353 samples (comprising 206 males and 147 females). The recorded data by obtaining questionnaires (include information on age, gender, location, as well as the results of stool analysis, specifying the type of parasite identified.
Samples were analyze using the direct smear methods with normal saline and Lugol‘s iodine solutions and parasites are identified with help of microscope. The analysis revealed that 49% (173/353) of the patients exhibited signs and symptoms of infections. The highest prevalent parasite was Taenia saginata (41%, n = 72/173) followed by Giardia lamblia (24.0% n = 43/173), Entamoeba histolytica (17% n= 31/173), Asccacris lumbricoides (15% n= 27/173), Hymenolepis nana (2% n = 5/173), and the lowest prevalence rate was noted for Tricuris trichuria (1.27%, 3/353). The infection rate in male and female was (49.1% Vs 50.3%), however there is no significant difference (P >0.05).
Young individuals were infected at a higher rate than older patients (90% Vs. 20%), (P < 0.05). Based on our findings, we can assume that intestinal parasite infection is still prevalent in this location. A national and international campaign to eradicate this infection and improve health and hygiene awareness is suggested. In addition, promotion of deworming campaign of intestinal parasites is needed. The present study recommends more work on the drugs resistance and molecular identification.
