Cutaneous Leishmaniasis: Associated Risk Factors and Prevention in Hubuna, Najran, Saudi Arabia

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a significant global health concern and one of the top ten most neglected diseases.
• The disease affects numerous countries, necessitating localized studies to understand transmission dynamics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify risk factors associated with cutaneous leishmaniasis in Hubuna, Najran, Saudi Arabia.
• To assess preventive measures employed by the local population against CL.

Main Methods:

• A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and October 2022.
• Data were collected from 391 participants using a self-administered questionnaire.
• Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and chi-squared tests, were used to determine risk factors and their associations.

Main Results:

• A high endemicity of CL was observed, with 38.1% of participants diagnosed.
• Significant risk factors included age (0-10 years), residing near planted areas, and farming occupation.
• No significant associations were found with sex, education level, or current preventive measures.

Conclusions:

• Socioeconomic and environmental factors play a crucial role in the high prevalence of CL in Hubuna.
• Further nationwide investigations into CL risk factors and the implementation of targeted interventions are essential for disease control.