Affiliations 

  • 1 International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM Kuantan Campus), Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Bandar Indera Mahkota, 25200 Kuantan, Pahang
  • 2 Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Kuantan, Pahang (Malaysia)
IIUM Medical Journal Malaysia, 2019;18(2):107-112.
MyJurnal

Abstract

Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections by Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiuraand hookworms still persist in rural and urban areas of developing communities. Recent studies in Malaysia focused on Orang Asli communities and none in the hospital settings. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and associated risk factors for STH among children admitted to Paediatric ward of the Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan (HTAA). Materials and Methods: This study was conducted among 135 (78 males, 57 females) patients in HTAA from December 2017 to May 2018. Faecal samples were examined using wet smear, Kato-Katz, Harada-Mori and sedimentation techniques. Demographic data and hygiene practice information were collected using a pre-tested questionnaire. Results: The overall prevalence of STH was 5.9% (A.lumbricoides 5.2%, T.trichiura0.7%, and hookworms 0.7%). Prevalence among males was 3.8% and females 8.8%. Majority (95.6%) were Malays. Chi square analysis showed that factors significantly associated with STH infections are household monthly income (p