Intestinal parasitic infections among school going children in Hetauda, Nepal

Abstract

The double burden of malnutrition (DBM) characterised by the co-existence of undernutrition along with overweight and obesity within populations is being a major problem in the developing world. Almost all countries are affected by obesity. With existing undernutrition in developing world, the global prevalence of obesity is increasing rapidly. Many earlier studies reported high prevalence of intestinal helminths in different groups of population. Some studies reported an association of intestinal parasitic infection (IPIs) with undernutrition while few recent studies reported 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. Anthropometric measurements were done for nutritional indicators and stool samples collected and examined for IPIs. Structured questionnaire survey was used to evaluate socio-economic, lifestyle, physical activity, and demographic information. One hundred five (n=105) school aged adolescents were selected matching their age, gender, and BMI categories. The concentration methods were used to assess the prevalence and intensity of IPIs in this population. Overall prevalence of IPIs was 5.71% with 3 parazoan (i.e., 2.86% Giardia lamblia, 1.90% Entamoeba histolytica and 0.95% Endolimax nana). Univariate and multivariable regression analysis indicated none of Social Economic Status (SES), demographic, lifestyle 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.