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The prevalence of Ascariasis
1Department of Zoology, University of Glasgow Glasgow G 12 8QQ, UK.
Parasitology Today (Personal Ed.)
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Ascariasis, caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides, infects over 1 billion people globally. This helminth infection affects approximately 22% of the world population across 153 countries.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
Background:
- Ascariasis is a widespread human intestinal helminth infection.
- Previous global prevalence estimates for ascariasis varied significantly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated and precise estimation of the global prevalence of Ascaris lumbricoides infection.
- To confirm previous high-end estimates of ascariasis prevalence.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was conducted to gather relevant epidemiological data.
- Data from the literature were analyzed to determine the current world prevalence of ascariasis.
Main Results:
- The study estimates a global prevalence of 1008 million cases of Ascaris lumbricoides infection.
- This figure represents approximately 22% of the total world population.
- Ascariasis is documented in 153 out of 218 recognized countries.
Conclusions:
- Ascariasis remains the most prevalent human intestinal helminth infection worldwide.
- The updated prevalence estimate confirms the high burden of ascariasis globally.
- The widespread distribution of Ascaris lumbricoides highlights its significant public health impact.