Intestinal Parasites among Primary School Children in Aden, Yemen

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundIntestinal parasite infection is a significant public health problem worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites among primary school children, identify the most common types of parasites, and identify the risk factors contributing to infection in Aden, Yemen.Methodology/Principal FindingsAn analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 201 school children in Aden, Yemen. Stool specimens were collected and tested using direct methods (saline and iodine preparations) and sedimentation concentration techniques. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (Version 21) with p ≤ 0.05 considered statistically significant. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 47.3%; 35.8% had a single parasite and 11.5% had multiple parasites. Higher rates were observed among female schoolchildren (51.2%), children whose mothers had primary education (51.3%), secondary education (50%), housewives (48.5%), and children aged >9 years (50%). The most predominant parasite was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (36.3%). There was no significant association between the identified risk factors and intestinal parasitic infections.Conclusions/SignificanceThe prevalence rate of intestinal parasites is high in Aden, Yemen, with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar being the most dominant parasite. The highest rates were found among female schoolchildren, those whose mothers were housewives with primary or secondary education, and children aged >9 years.Author SummaryIntestinal parasite infections are a major health issue in many parts of the world, especially in developing countries like Yemen. This study investigated the prevalence of these infections among primary school children in Aden, Yemen. By analyzing stool samples from 201 children, we found that nearly half were infected with at least one type of parasite. The most common parasite was Entamoeba histolytica/dispar, affecting more than a third of the children. We also discovered that certain groups of children were more likely to be infected, such as older children, girls, and those whose mothers had lower levels of education or were housewives. Understanding these patterns can help in developing targeted interventions to reduce the spread of these infections and improve children’s health and educational outcomes.