Prevalence and factors associated with intestinal parasitosis in children from an urban slum in Brazil: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and investigate the factors associated with intestinal parasitic diseases in children from an urban slum in Brazil.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in children living in SEWA community, an urban slum located in Araguari, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was determined via stool parasitological examination by spontaneous sedimentation. Socioeconomic, demographic, and behavioral data were collected to identify associated factors. The statistical analysis used the Poisson regression model, with robust variance for identification of associations.

RESULTS

Fifty-two children were interviewed, 41 of whom underwent parasitological examination. The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 43.9% (95% confidence interval - 95%CI 34.6-51.4), and 23% of children presented polyparasitism. Endolimax nana, Entamoeba coli, Giardia lamblia and Strongyloides stercoralis were identified in the stool samples. The adjusted analysis indicated negative associations of parasitosis with annual parasitological examination, possession of private health insurance, a mother who was married or in a stable relationship, and access to water treatment. Positive associations were observed with male sex, habit of playing with dirt, water ingestion from the hose, unemployed parents, low parental education, and the presence of a septic tank at home.

CONCLUSIONS

The high prevalence of intestinal parasitosis in the SEWA community is a public health problem. The identification of modifiable and preventable factors highlights the need for interventions to improve living conditions not only for children but also for the entire community.