Prevalence and Risk Factors of Infection with Soil Transmitted Helminths in Children from Bandjoun, the West Region of Cameroon

Nkouayep, Vanessa Rosine and Nejsum, Peter and Cleopas, Dzune Fossouo Dirane and Nadia, Noumedem Anangmo Christelle and Joël, Atiokeng Tatang Rostand and Mbida, Mpoame (2020) Prevalence and Risk Factors of Infection with Soil Transmitted Helminths in Children from Bandjoun, the West Region of Cameroon. International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health, 41 (17). pp. 34-43. ISSN 2278-1005

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Abstract

Background: Soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) continue to be a public health problem in developing countries. In Bandjoun, annual deworming is usually administered to school-age children through the national programme for the control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis in Cameroon. However, official data on the level of STH infections are scarce in this locality.

Methods: We investigated the prevalence and associated risk factors of STHs among children in Bandjoun with the intention to help design future intervention plans. We obtained demographic data and potential risk factors through the interview of children using a structured questionnaire. Stool samples from these children were collected and examined for helminth eggs using Willis’ technique.

Results: Three STHs were identified with an overall prevalence of 8.7%. These nematodes were Ascaris lumbricoides (8.3%), Trichuris trichiura (0.3%) and hookworms (Ancylostoma duodenale, Necator americanus) (0.7%). Failure to wash hands before meals (AOR: 2.152 [1.056-4.389]) was the main predictor associated with Ascaris infections. Not eating food picked up from the ground (AOR: 0.494 [0.261-0.937]) and not raising pigs at home (AOR: 0.109 [0.045-0.268]) reduced risk of infection.

Conclusion: We recommend that STHs control interventions in Bandjoun focus on the good management of domesticated pigs, the avoidance of contact with soil and handwashing from the earliest ages as a part of daily hygiene practice.

Item Type: Article
Subjects: GO for STM > Medical Science
Depositing User: Unnamed user with email support@goforstm.com
Date Deposited: 27 Mar 2023 06:39
Last Modified: 09 Feb 2024 03:53
URI: http://archive.article4submit.com/id/eprint/260

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