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Published on: August 22, 2012
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Enterobiasis among Yemeni children: a cross-sectional study
Abdulelah H Al-Adhroey1, Yahya A Al-Ansi1, Mohammed A Al-Kholani1
1Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Thamar University, PO Box 87246, Dhamar, Yemen.
Summary
Enterobiasis, a pinworm infection, affects nearly 30% of children in Yemen's Dhamar governorate. Poor hygiene, nail-biting, and lack of parental knowledge are key risk factors, necessitating health education and mass treatment.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Parasitology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Enterobiasis (pinworm infection) is a global public health concern, particularly prevalent in developing regions.
- Yemen faces significant challenges in managing infectious diseases due to socioeconomic factors.
- Children are especially vulnerable to enterobiasis due to their behaviors and hygiene practices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of enterobiasis among children in Yemen's Dhamar governorate.
- To identify significant risk factors associated with enterobiasis in this population.
- To inform public health strategies for controlling pinworm infections in Yemeni children.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 402 children aged 1-12 years at Thamar University Al-Wahdah Teaching Hospital.
- Enterobius vermicularis infection was diagnosed using the adhesive tape technique.
- Prevalence ratios (PR) were calculated to assess the association between risk factors and enterobiasis.
Main Results:
- The overall prevalence of enterobiasis was 29.4% (118/402 children).
- Significant risk factors included child care responsibility (PR=1.90), irregular handwashing (PR=2.01), nail-biting (PR=1.61), putting objects in the mouth (PR=1.58), and frequent anal itching (PR=1.46).
- Parental lack of knowledge on preventive measures (PR=1.62) and recent anthelmintic use (PR=1.68) were also associated with higher infection rates.
Conclusions:
- Enterobiasis is highly prevalent among children in Dhamar, Yemen, with a notable peak in the 1-6 year age group.
- Poor hygiene practices, specific behavioral habits, and limited parental awareness are critical drivers of infection.
- Public health interventions, including targeted health education and mass deworming programs, are urgently recommended for this vulnerable population.
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