Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Diseases in the Students of Qom City and Hygiene Status of Their Schools, Iran

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Parasitic diseases are one of the major hygienic and economic problems in most of the developing countries and dealing with them is one of the most important parts of the national development programs in these countries. In the current study, the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection, determination of its affecting factors in primary and secondary school students in Qom city, and providing necessary solutions to prevent it, were investigated. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed on 2410 students (age, 7-14 years) in primary and secondary girls and boys schools in Qom City. Data gathering tool included School Health Assessment Questionnaire and a questionnaire containing demographic data of the students and their parents' education level and occupation. Data were analyzed using Fisher and chi-square tests. The level of significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Of 2140 students, 48.54% were female and the rest were male. The Overall prevalence of parasitic diseases in Qom city was estimated to be 11.99%, which was 12.86% in the primary school students and 10.71% in secondary school students, and was higher in boys compared to girls. The type of parasitic infection in 42.56% of caseswas Entamoeba coli, 37.37% Giardia, 6.23%, Entamoeba histolytica, 4.5% Enterobius vermicularis, and 2.08% Hymenolepis nana. The prevalence of the disease were reported higher in public schools, without health instructors, and extended families. Conclusion: Considering the pathogenic role of parasites in the human and their physical, psychological, social, and economic damages and the importance of fighting them, health education at school level in the use of toilets, lavatory, and drinking water is recommend to prevent the spread of these infections