PARASITIC INFECTIONS: IS MALE AND FEMALE DIFFERENCE FOR ANEMIA AND GROWTH RETARDATION EVIDENT?

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Parasitic infections are a major health concern in school-aged children, leading to impaired growth and anemia.
• Understanding the specific roles of different parasites and their impact on child health is crucial for effective interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of parasitic infections in children.
• To determine the association between parasitic infections, anemia, and growth parameters.
• To identify gender-specific complications related to these infections.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted.
• Included 314 children aged 1-13 years attending a pediatric clinic.
• Utilized clinical examination, stool analysis, and complete blood count (CBC).

Main Results:

• Common parasites identified: Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, Enterobius vermicularis, Hymenolepis nana, Ascaris lumbricoides, and Ancylostoma duodenale.
• Significant gender differences observed in E. histolytica (higher in females) and G. lamblia/H. nana (higher in males).
• Males showed significantly higher rates of anemia (92%) and underweight/borderline weight (34.5%) compared to females.

Conclusions:

• Parasitic infections are highly prevalent and linked to significant anemia and growth issues in school-aged children.
• Gender disparities exist in the prevalence of specific parasitic infections and their associated health complications.
• Public health strategies should address these gender-specific vulnerabilities to improve child health outcomes.