Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Nutritional Status in Children under Five Years Old: A Systematic Review

Intestinal parasitic infections are common infectious diseases causing many health problems and impaired growth and physical development.. Children under five years old are the most vulnerable to infections, due to their immature immunity and feeding and exploratory behaviours. This systematic review aimed to assess the relationship between intestinal parasitic infections and undernutrition among children under 5 years old. Fifteen studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and were classified as high-quality studies. Twelve parasites were reported, including Ascaris lumbricoides, Cryptosporodium spp., Entamoeba histolytica, Enterobius vermicularis, Giardia lamblia, hookworm, Hymenolepis nana, Strongyloides sterocalis, Taenia spp. and Trichuris trichuria. Ascariasis is the most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 10.77% in Ethiopia to 57.14% in Malaysia, and is correlated with stunting (OR 2.17 (95% CI 1.14, 4.13), p = 0.02). Giardiasis is the second most reported infection, with a prevalence ranging from 4.43% in Ethiopia to 66.33% in the Central African Republic, and is related to an increased risk of stunting (OR 2.34 (95% CI 1.07, 5.10), p = 0.03)), wasting (OR 2.90 (95% CI 1.12, 7.49, p = 0.03)), and being underweight (OR 1.53 (95% CI 1.02, 2.29, p = 0.04)). The third and fourth most prevalent infections are T. trichiura and hookworm infections. Intestinal parasitic infections can occur very early in life and cause significant growth retardation. It is important to understand the prevalence and effects of infection based on the parasite species in order to implement therapeutic interventions and prevention controls.