European Journal of Molecular & Clinical Medicine

Abstract

Soil-transmitted helminthic (STH) infection is a significant public health concern in India and a leading cause of morbidity, particularly in resource-constrained regions. Human transmission occurs through eggs or larvae in faeces, which contaminate soil in areas with poor sanitation. Infection results in intestinal blood loss leading to iron deficiency anaemia and protein malnutrition, impaired physical and cognitive development, abdominal pain and diarrhoea.
Aims & Objectives: To study the six-year prevalence trend of STH infections in middle  and upper Assam region from the records of patients attending JMCH.
Materials & Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study was done by collecting data from records of STH isolates from January 2017 to November 2022. Data were analyzed using EpiInfo and chi square test to analyze the association between different variables using p value < 0.05 as statistically significant.
Results: From a total of 1352 stool samples received over 6 years, 200 (14.8%) were positive for intestinal parasites among which STH were 102 (51%). Six different parasites were reported with Ancylostoma duodenalae       being the predominant (59.8%) followed by Trichuris trichura (22.5%) and Ascaris lumbricoides (19.6%). Further, 2% recorded co-infection with 3 parasites and 6.5% with 2 parasites. The prevalence was higher in males (86%) than females (14%) (p=1.27) and 40-60 years age group showed highest prevalence.
Conclusion: Intestinal infection due to Hookworm was the most common STH identified in this study. Improvement in sanitation, periodical deworming and health education schemes are indispensable for the prevention and control of STH