PREVALENCE OF INTESTINAL PARASITIC INFECTIONS AND ASSOCIATED RISK FACTORS AMONG SYMPTOMATIC CASES OF SHINSHICHO PRIMARY HOSPITAL, KECHABIRA DISTRICT, KEMBATA ZONE, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a significant public health concern, especially in low-resource settings where poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and inadequate health education facilitate their transmission. These infections, caused by various protozoa and helminths, contribute to a wide range of health problems, including malnutrition, anemia, impaired cognitive development in children, and increased susceptibility to other diseases. This study aimed to assess the socio-demographic and food hygiene-related factors associated with the prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among patients at Shinshicho Primary Hospital, where previous reports indicate a high burden of IPIs contributing to significant morbidity in the community. A cross-sectional sectional study was conducted involving a representative sample of individuals. Data on socio-demographic variables, stool types, water sources, hygiene practices, and dietary habits were collected. Statistical analyses, including frequency and chi-square tests, were performed to identify significant associations. The overall prevalence of IPIs among the participants was notable, with several parasite species identified. The most common parasite detected was Giardia lamblia, accounting for 34.7% of cases, followed by Ascaris lumbricoides at 22.4%, and Entamoeba histolytica at 19.6%. Additionally, hookworm and Taenia species were found in 11.8% and 11.4% of the cases, respectively., with significant associations observed between educational status and infection rates (p < 0.001). Food and hygiene-related factors, such as drinking water source (p < 0.000), hand washing practices (p < 0.015), and sanitation facilities (p < 0.016), were also linked to increased risk of infections. Specifically, reliance on unsafe water sources and inadequate hygiene practices correlated with higher incidences of Giardia, Ascaris, and Entamoeba infections. The study underscores the importance of socio-demographic and hygiene-related factors in the prevalence of IPIs. It calls for integrated public health interventions that focus on education, improved water quality, and sanitation to mitigate the burden of intestinal parasites in the community. Addressing these issues holistically is essential for enhancing public health outcomes.