INTESTINAL PARASITE INFECTIONS AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS IN INHABITANTS OF THE CITY OF YAOUNDÉ, CAMEROON

Abstract

Intestinal parasite infections are still prevalent in developing countries and in Cameroon where over 90% of the population is at high risk. To assess the distribution of intestinal parasitic infections and risk factors of the city of Yaoundé, both household and parasitological surveys were conducted from October to December 2019 among inhabitants of lowlands aged from 15 years and over. Stools samples were collected and screened for intestinal parasites presence using Kato Katz and Formol-Ether methods. Sociodemographic status, prevention measures against intestinal parasitic diseases and practices with increase exposition to risky environments were then recorded. A total of 229 participants (142 females: 62.0%; 87 males: 38.0%) were enrolled for the study, and 24.02% (55/229) were found infected by helminthes (ten species) and/or protozoans (one species). Participant infection rates and risk varied by parasite species and socio-demographic factors. Global risk analysis showed that age (OR ranges: 3.78-15.96), anti-parasitic drug consumption (OR: 2.53), eating behavior,,hygiene (OR: 22.4), occupation (OR ranges: 1.92-3.53) and type of toilets (OR: 3.4) were strongly associated with risk of infection by intestinal parasites. The risk increased in 15-30 years age group for A. lumbricoïdes, T. trichiura and Schistosoma mansoni, unpredictably in those washing their hands before meals for A. lumbricoïdes and H. nana, in respondents using antiparasitic drugs as auto-medication for H. nana and in those using traditional toilets for A. lumbricoïdes. However, other variables with high OR values (> 5.0) might be potential risk factor for the occurrence of specific parasite infections. The study suggests the need for household sensitization and community actions including integrated environmental management as complement strategy to reduce intestinal parasite transmission in the city of Yaoundé.