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The epidemiology of soil-transmitted helminth and protozoan infections in south-west Cameroon

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 January 2011

J.V. Mbuh ,
N.H. Ntonifor  and
J. Ojong
J.V. Mbuh*
Affiliation:
Department of Plant and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Cameroon
N.H. Ntonifor
Affiliation:
Department of Plant and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Cameroon
J. Ojong
Affiliation:
Department of Plant and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Buea, Cameroon
*
*E-mail: judithmbuh@yahoo.com
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Abstract

A cross-sectional study of the prevalence, intensity and effects of soil-transmitted helminth and protozoan infections was undertaken among patients at the Buea Hospital Annex located in Buea sub-division of Cameroon. Stool samples from 356 subjects (174 males and 182 females) were collected and processed using standard concentration methods. Our results showed that 31.0% of subjects were infected with intestinal helminths and the prevalence was higher in females (32.4%) than in males (30.5%). A significantly higher prevalence was observed in rural (47.2%) than in urban areas (21.0%); significance < 0.1%. Prevalence was highest among those aged between 6 and 12 years (41.4%). The total prevalence of intestinal helminth infections were 19.3% for Ascaris lumbricoides, 14.0% for hookworm and 11.8% for Trichuris trichiura. The intensity of infection was unevenly distributed, with very heavy loads concentrated in a few individuals. Data also showed that 28.1% (100/356) of the subjects were infected with protozoans. Females showed a higher prevalence (28.6%; 52/182) than males (20.7%; 36/174). Also, there was a significantly higher prevalence in rural (34.0%; 49/144) than urban areas (18.4%; 39/212); significance < 0.1%. The age group 6–12 years again had a higher prevalence (37.1%; 26/70). The total prevalence of intestinal protozoans was: Entamoeba histolytica (24.4%), Entamoeba coli (11.2%) and Giardia lamblia (0.6%). These relatively heavy prevalences in patients may be reduced by appropriate medication and maintaining strict personal hygiene. Health education, clean water supply, good sewage management and a congenial environment will all help to minimize infection.

Type
Research Papers
Information
Journal of Helminthology , Volume 86 , Issue 1 , March 2012 , pp. 30 - 37
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2011

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