Intestinal parasitic infection among mentally handicapped students in the Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections are among the most common public health problems in populations with poor hygiene. Consequently, mental retardation increases the risk of infection. Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among mentally disabled young people in Hamadan, western Islamic Republic of Iran. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 318 students in 9 special schools in 2017. Triplicate faecal specimens for each student were subjected to stool analysis using direct wet mount, sedimentation concentration, and permanent staining technique. Chi-squared or Fisher’s exact test were used for statistical analysis. Results: Out of 318 students, 135 (42.5%, 95% CI: 37.1–47.9) were infected with intestinal parasites. Prevalence rates for females and males were 45.2% (61/135) and 40.4% (74/183) respectively. Protozoan infections (42.5%, 135) were more numerous than helminthiasis (0.6%, 2). Blastocystis hominis (28%, 89) was the most common parasite, followed by Giardia lamblia (9.7%, 31), Entamoeba coli (9.1%, 29) and Trichomonas hominis (6%, 19). Conclusions: The high prevalence rate of intestinal protozoan infection reflects poor personal hygiene among the students and inappropriate environmental conditions. Therefore, specific public health measures are required for the mentally handicapped students in special schools.