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Prevalence and contributing factors of intestinal parasitic infections among school children with malnutrition in Hetauda, Nepal: A cross‐sectional study
Published Web Location
https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.2146Abstract
Background and aims
With existing undernutrition in the developing world, the prevalence of obesity is increasing rapidly. Some studies reported an association of intestinal parasitic infection (IPIs) with undernutrition while few recent studies reported an inverse association of IPIs with overweight and obesity. This study evaluated the comparative risk and associated factors of IPIs among under (body mass index [BMI] < 18.5), normal (BMI: 18.5-24.9) and overweight (BMI > 24.9) school-aged adolescents.Methods
A total of 105 fecal samples were collected, with 35 samples from each group. The collected samples were tested for the presence of intestinal parasites via concentration method, and the parasites were identified morphologically.Results
Overall prevalence of IPIs was 5.71% with 3 protozoa viz Giardia lamblia (2.86%), Entamoeba histolytica (1.90%) and Endolimax nana (0.95%). Univariate and multivariable regression analysis indicated none of the nutritional, socioeconomic status, demographic, lifestyle and behavioral characteristics were significantly associated with the prevalence of overall IPIs. Yet, significant numbers of male reported undernutrition and elevated risk of IPIs in this study population.Conclusion
Despite low prevalence of IPIs in this study, risk of IPIs is attributable to individual differences in behavior like "not using soap for hand washing". Relatively elevated malnutrition with risky hygiene behaviors, male adolescents appeared as risky cluster of school age population.Many UC-authored scholarly publications are freely available on this site because of the UC's open access policies. Let us know how this access is important for you.
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