Study of prevalence of parasitic intestinal infections in a tertiary care center in Central India serving a rural population: a retrospective analysis

Abstract

Backgrouud Intestinal parasitic infections is a globally prevalent condition with variable morbidities like bleeding, iron-deficiency anemia, megaloblastic anemia, intestinal obstruction, fat malabsorption, hepatosplenomegaly, and mortality. It is also responsible for retardation in growth and poor mental development in growing children, which is the worst attacked age group. Its prevalence varies from geographical regions like tropical and subtropical and also varies from populations like in urban, suburban, and rural. Periodic monitoring of prevalence to set control programs for that locality is needed. Aim To study the prevalence of various parasitic intestinal infections in a rural population in Central India. Materials and methods This descriptive and retrospective study was done in a 350-bed tertiary care hospital located in Central India serving a rural population. We have extensively studied all stool samples collected and reported between August 2019 and May 2022. Results A total of 1120 stool samples were reported during our study period, of which 518 were of females and 602 were of males. Of these 1120 stool samples, 91 samples showed the presence of parasite. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection in our study population is 8.13%, whereas the prevalence of the same in males and females is 8.63 and 7.53%, respectively. Conclusion We have found no association or effect of sex on intestinal parasitic infections in our study population. The prevalence of the same was lower in our rural population compared with various other studies, indicating good hygiene level in the society. The prevalence was highest in 21–40-year age group. Age group had a significant association with intestinal parasitic infections in our study population.