Modeling strongyloidiasis risk in the United States

Area of Science:

• Parasitology
• Epidemiology
• Spatial Risk Assessment

Background:

• Strongyloidiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by the parasite Strongyloides stercoralis.
• Current understanding of strongyloidiasis distribution in the US is limited, primarily focusing on the southeastern region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a spatial risk assessment for strongyloidiasis in the United States.
• To identify high-probability areas for Strongyloides stercoralis presence.
• To recommend targeted screening and surveillance strategies.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a species distribution model (maximum entropy algorithm) incorporating parasite occurrence data and environmental variables.
• Ecological risk assessment was combined with socioeconomic factors using multi-criteria analysis.
• Publicly available occurrence records and environmental data were used.

Main Results:

• The model identified suitable habitats for Strongyloides stercoralis in ten states outside the southeastern US.
• Predicted suitable habitats span the south, east, northeast, and west coasts.
• The assessment highlights a broader geographic distribution than previously recognized.

Conclusions:

• Strongyloidiasis should be made a reportable disease in 16 high-risk states.
• Implement uniform, near-universal solid organ transplant screening.
• Enhance clinical suspicion and awareness for early diagnosis and treatment.