Prevalence, Intensity and Associated Risk Factors of Ascariasis Among Primary School Pupils in Anam Community, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Ascariasis remains a substantial public health problem globally, with over 700 million people infected. In Nigeria, school children are the most vulnerable group due to their geophagic behaviour. This cross-sectional study evaluated the prevalence, intensity, and associated risk factors of ascariasis among pupils in Anam, Anambra State, between June and July 2024. Stool samples from a total of 127 pupils (63 males and 64 females), aged between 5 and 16 years from Unity Primary School Anam (classes 1-6), were collected and examined using the Kato-Katz technique. Structured questionnaires were used to gather information on socio-demographic factors, behavioral attitudes, and knowledge of the disease among the pupils. Data was analyzed using Chi-square, and p≤0.05 was considered significant. The findings revealed an overall prevalence of ascariasis as 45(35.4%). Females had the highest prevalence (39.1%) than males (31.7%), but the result was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Pupils in Primary 3 had the highest prevalence (50%), followed by Primary 1 (43.8%), while school pupils in Primary 6 had the lowest prevalence (8.3%). In terms of age, pupils aged 14-16 years recorded the highest prevalence rate (60.0%) compared to the other age groups. The infection observed showed a moderate intensity (6480 EPG) for both sexes and age groups. Risk factors found to influence the spread of ascariasis in the study area include inadequate sanitation, poor hygiene and health facilities, sewage systems, as well as lack of awareness of the parasite's mode of transmission. This study proves that deworming alone is not sufficient to curb the spread of the parasite. Though the study recorded a moderate prevalence of ascariasis, it remains a public health concern because reinfection can occur due to poor hygiene practices. Continuous monitoring, health education, and the implementation of WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) practices in the community are highly recommended.