IDENTIFICATION, FREQUENCY AND ASSOCIATED FACTORS WITH INTESTINAL PARASITE INFECTIONS IN PATIENTS WITH GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS

摘要

Background: Worldwide, intestinal parasitic infections are major cause of human mortality and morbidity especially among developing countries wherein public health standards are not much better like developed countries. Intestinal parasitic infections are linked with poor sanitation, lack of safe drinking water, inadequate dietary and cultural habits and climate conditions. Objective: To assess the frequency, risk factors and clinical manifestations related to intestinal parasite infections in patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Study Design: Cross-sectional multi-centre study. Setting: Department of Medicines, Chandka Medical College Larkana and Civil Hospital, Khairpur Mirs. Period: 1st January 2017 to 31st December 2017. Method: 260 patients, the patients with gastrointestinal disorders presenting one or more symptoms (e.g. diarrhea, dysentery, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, cramping and constipation) were included. Results: Frequency of intestinal parasites was 32.3%. The most common parasites were Entamoeba histolytica (10.4%), Giardia lamblia (8.5%) and Hymenolepis nana (6.9%). Age, education, monthly income and contact with animal were significantly associated with intestinal parasite infections. Concerning symptoms, the presence of intestinal parasites infection was significantly associated with diarrhea and dysentery. Conclusion: Study concluded that most prevalent parasites were Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Hymenolepis nana. Significant association was found in age, education and monthly income.