Prevalence and Risk Factors of Intestinal Parasite Infection among Schoolchildren in the Peripheral Highland Regions of Huanuco, Peru.
10.24171/j.phrp.2017.8.5.03
- Author:
Byungjin CHOI
1
;
Bongyoung KIM
Author Information
1. Department of Internal Medicine, Eulji University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Korea. puresobakas@gmail.com
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
parasites;
volunteers;
Peru
- MeSH:
Ascaris lumbricoides;
Child;
Developing Countries;
Entamoeba;
Giardia lamblia;
Hand;
Humans;
Hygiene;
International Cooperation;
Korea;
Life Style;
Meals;
Parasites*;
Peru*;
Prevalence*;
Retortamonadidae;
Risk Factors*;
Volunteers;
Water Supply
- From:
Osong Public Health and Research Perspectives
2017;8(5):302-307
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: Schoolchildren in developing countries are at greater risk of intestinal parasitic infections. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and assess the risk factors of intestinal parasite infection among schoolchildren in rural areas of Peru. METHODS: A volunteer team from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) conducted a campaign for parasite eradication called “Chao parasitos” at five schools in the peripheral highland regions of Huanuco in October 2013. The study collected questionnaires and stool samples from children of participating schools. Entamoeba coli, Iodamoeba buschii, and Chilomastix mesnil were classified as nonpathogenic parasites. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasite infection in the students was 100% (185/185). Among them, 25.9% (48/185) were infected only with nonpathogenic parasites whereas 74.1% (137/185) were infected with at least one pathogenic parasite. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most commonly detected (37.3%, 69/185), followed by Giardia lamblia (15.1%, 28/185) and I. buschii (11.9%, 22/185). Among lifestyle practices associated with parasitic infection, the rate of washing hands before meals was significantly lower in the students with pathogenic parasites compared to those with nonpathogenic parasites (77.4%, 106/137 vs. 93.8%, 45/48, p = 0.025). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of intestinal parasite was 100%. Both personal hygiene and water supply facilities are required to eradicate parasite infection in rural areas of Peru.
