Displaying publications 61 - 80 of 80 in total

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  1. Fulltext Factors associated with stunting among Orang Asli preschool children in Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
    Wan, Ying Gan, Siti Fatihah Murtaza, Norhasmah Sulaiman, Zalilah Mohd Shariff
    Malays J Nutr, 2018;24(2):215-226.
    MyJurnal
    Introduction: Childhood stunting is recognised as one of the most significant
    barriers to human development. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the
    factors associated with stunting among Orang Asli (OA) preschool children in Negeri
    Sembilan, Malaysia.

    Methods: A total of 264 children (50.9% boys and 49.1%
    girls) aged 2-6 years (M=4.04, SD=1.21 years) including their mothers from 14 OA
    villages in Negeri Sembilan participated in this study. Mothers were interviewed to
    obtain information regarding socioeconomic status, sanitation facility and personal
    hygiene. The height of the children and their mothers were measured. Venous
    blood samples were drawn from the children to estimate haemoglobin level, and
    stool samples were collected to screen for intestinal parasitic infections.

    Results:
    Approximately one third of the children (35.6%) and 7.8% of the mothers were
    stunted. One in five of the children were anaemic (21.6%), while one- third had
    intestinal parasitic infections (35.0%). Low birth weight (AOR=2.526, 95% CI: 1.310-
    4.872; p=0.006), anaemia (AOR=2.742, 95% CI: 1.265-5.945; p=0.011), presence
    of intestinal parasitic infections (AOR=2.235, 95% CI: 1.310-3.813, p=0.003), not
    wearing shoes (AOR=2.602, 95% CI: 1.453-4.660; p=0.001), absence of piped water
    at home (AOR=2.395, 95% CI: 1.047-5.476; p=0.039), dirty nails (AOR=1.956, 95%
    CI: 1.163-3.289, p=0.011), and stunted mothers (AOR=3.443, 95% CI: 1.334-8.890;
    p=0.011) were identified as significant factors for childhood stunting.

    Conclusion:
    It is suggested that the factors identified associated with childhood stunting be
    included in future intervention programmes that address stunting among OA
    children.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  2. Intestinal parasitic infections frequency in referred patients to a large teaching hospital, Khuzestan, Southwest, Iran, 2017
    Feiz Haddad MH, Maraghi S, Ali SA, Feiz Haddad R, Nasser Zadeh R
    Trop Biomed, 2018 Dec 01;35(4):915-925.
    PMID: 33601841
    Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are among the most important infectious diseases in Iran. A cross sectional study was designed to determine frequency of intestinal parasites among referrals to a large teaching hospital in Khuzestan, Southwest of Iran, 2017. A total number of 5613 stool samples were examined through direct smear and formalin-ether concentration methods to detect possible parasitic infections. Samples consisted of 2643 (47.09%) male and 2970 (52.91%) female. A total of 1468 (26.15%) samples were positive (13.11% male and 13.4% female) and 4145 (73.85%) were negative. The results also showed that 255 of samples had more than one type of parasite (mix infections). Counting single and mix parasite infections, the total number of positive cases reached to 1723. Helminthes parasites were present in 12 (0.7%) cases, while intestinal protozoan parasites were in 1711 (99.3%) cases. Almost equally, pathogenic and nonpathogenic parasites infected 860 (49.91%) and 863 (50.09%) of patients, respectively. The frequency for helminthes was determined at 0.52% with Hymenolepis nana and Enterobius vermicularis however, Giardia lamblia in 38.54% and Entamoeba histolytica/dispar at 10.68% were concluded as protozoa elements. The IPIs frequency was recorded in female and male patients at 49.16% and 50.14%, respectively. According to the current results the infection rate of intestinal parasites has been significantly reduced especially for helminths infections in this region possibly due to public attention to health issues such as; increased awareness of people, improvement of sanitation, seasonal variations, health education and personal hygiene.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  3. Diagnostics of intestinal parasites by light microscopy among the population of children between the ages of 4-12 in eastern Turkey
    Babat SO, Sirekbasan S, Macin S, Kariptas E, Polat E
    Trop Biomed, 2018 Dec 01;35(4):1087-1091.
    PMID: 33601855
    Intestinal parasitic infections are among important health problems in developing countries. In societies living in low socioeconomic conditions, it has been neglected and mostly affects children. It is important to determine the prevalence and type of intestinal parasites in order to determine the intervention strategies for these infections. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate intestinal parasite prevalence and IgE levels and the factors associated with the region in which the children population live, in Sirnak province, in the eastern of Turkey. A total of 357 symptomatic children aged 4 to 12 years, who were admitted to the Paediatric Polyclinic of Sirnak State Hospital, were examined prospectively. The collected stool samples were examined with direct wet-mount and concentration method under light microscope. In addition, total serum IgE levels were compared among 223 children with parasitic disease and 134 children without parasitic disease. One or more intestinal parasites were detected in 223 out of the 357 children participating in the study. The ratio of single, double, and triple parasitic infections in children was 32.5 %, 22.4 % and 7.6 %, respectively. The most common parasites determined in the study were Taenia spp. (39.9%), Enterobius vermicularis (38.6%) and Giardia intestinalis. (30 %). The difference between IgE levels determined in both groups was not regarded to be statistically significant. This study indicated that that intestinal polyparism is very common in children living in the province of Sirnak, which is located in the east of Turkey, neighbouring Iraq and Syria in the South. For this reason, sustainable control measures are urgently needed to improve personal hygiene and sanitation, to provide a healthy infrastructure and to improve the quality of existing water resources.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  4. Prevalence and intensity of helminths among inhabitants of the Chi River and Lahanna water reservoir areas of Northeastern Thailand
    Rattanapitoon SK, Pechdee P, Boonsuya A, Meererksom T, Wakkhuwatapong P, Leng M, et al.
    Trop Biomed, 2020 Sep 01;37(3):730-743.
    PMID: 33612786 DOI: 10.47665/tb.37.3.730
    Helminth infections (HIs) are an important public health problem in tropical countries, and the associated problems have been neglected in rural areas of Thailand. Therefore, this study reports the prevalence and intensity of HIs among inhabitants of the Khon Sawan district, Chaiyaphum province, and Kaeng Samnam Nang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, which are located near the Chi River and Lahanna water reservoir, northeastern Thailand. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between July 31, 2018, and June 30, 2019, among rural villagers from 40 rural villages in 4 subdistricts. The participants were selected from the village enrolment list after proportional allocation of the total sample size. Faecal samples from 691 inhabitants were prepared using solvent-free faecal parasite concentrator, and helminths were then detected using a light microscope. Statistical analysis included the Chi-square test with Yates correction, and multivariable logistic regression was performed. A P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of HIs was 2.03%. The most prevalent helminths were Opisthorchis viverrini (1.31%), followed by Strongyloides stercoralis (0.44%), Ascaris lumbricoides (0.29%), hookworm (0.15%), Teania spp. (0.15%) and one minute intestinal fluke (0.15%). Coinfections were identified in 2 cases for S. stercoralis and hookworm and 1 case for O. viverrini and S. stercoralis infection. All infected participants had a light intensity of HI. There was no significant difference between general characteristics for all HIs. The prevalence of HIs was not significantly associated with general characteristics. This study indicates that the infections result mainly from foodborne helminths and skin-penetrating nematodes. Therefore, interventions should concentrate on the personal hygiene of the population and improving sanitation to reduce HIs in this area.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  5. Fulltext Enumeration of Salmonella spp., Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Typhimurium in fruit juices
    Diana, J.E., Pui, C.F., Son, R.
    International Food Research Journal, 2012;19(1):51-56.
    MyJurnal
    Salmonella has caused foodborne illnesses globally and it has been a rising threat on fresh produce. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and concentration of Salmonella spp., Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Typhimurium in freshly prepared fruit juice sold at hawker stalls. Analysis was conducted by employing most probable number-polymerase chain reaction (MPN-PCR). A total of 50 freshly prepared fruit juices were examined and the prevalence of Salmonella spp., Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Typhimurium in the fruit juices were 34%, 20% and 10%, respectively, with an estimated microbial load varying from 0 to 42 MPN/g. Of the five different fruits, carrot juice had the highest prevalence of Salmonella spp. (60%) and Salmonella Typhi (40%). However, Salmonella Typhimurium was detected in apple (30%), orange (10%) and starfruit juice (10%). Factors contributing to the presence of Salmonella were cross-contamination and poor sanitation practice. Besides, negligence on temperature and storage time also led to the growth of Salmonella. Proper monitoring and risk assessment are needed in order to establish control measures to ensure the quality and safety of fruit juices in Malaysia.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  6. Fulltext Pengawalan mutu air minuman dan sanitasi semasa banjir 2006-2007 di Johor Darul Ta’zim
    Md Rajuna, A.S., Norazema, S.
    Malaysian Journal of Community Health, 2009;15(3):41-54.
    MyJurnal
    Background : Safe potable water is critical during and post flood. In the pre-flood period, Johore has an excellent, systematic and comprehensive water supply system. More than 98.6% of Johore population received treated water supply from the water treatment plants.
    Methodology : Data collection was performed by conducting additional water sampling at routine sampling stations as well as the flood relief centres, water tankers (lorries) and static water tanks. Water treatment plant outlet and water tanker inlet shall have a minimum level of 2.0 mg/l of residual chlorine so that reticulation, water tanker outlets and static water tanks would have at least 0.5 mg/l as a measure to prevent the incidence of water borne diseases. Sampling was done everyday to monitor water quality at the flood relief centres as well as flood-hit areas. Inspections and surveillance on sanitation were also conducted on latrines, solid waste disposal systems and on the surrounding environment.
    Results : A total of 6,283 water samples had been collected during and post flood. Violations on E. coli, turbidity and residual chlorine were 0.8%, 0.6% and 4.0% respectively with the Kluang district recorded the highest percentages for all the three parameters. A number of 621 wells had been inspected with 378 of them (60.9%) had been chlorinated. In order to ensure environmental cleanliness, 26,815 houses in 708 villages had been visited. Out of them, 2,011 houses (7.5%) were not satisfactory. Sanitation inspections found that 1,778 latrines, 2,719 domestic water sewerage systems and 2,955 solid waste disposal systems were under substandard conditions thus remedial actions had been taken immediately.
    Conclusion : Although the flood disaster was massive with prolonged flooding period, however, an overall quality status on treated water supply was satisfactory whilst sanitary hygiene was under control. Hence, the incidence of communicable disease especially water borne diseases would not progress into serious outbreak, in fact, neither cholera nor typhoid was reported during the Johore flood disaster.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  7. Fulltext Trichuriasis among orang asli children at Pos Lenjang, Pahang, Malaysia
    Hartini Yusof, Mohamed Kamel Abd. Ghani
    Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia, 2012;10(1):49-52.
    MyJurnal
    A cross-sectional study was conducted in February 2006 to determine the prevalence of Trichuris trichiura infection among Orang Asli (Aborigine) children at Pos Lenjang, Pahang. A total of 71 faecal samples were collected from the children (40 girls and 31 boys) aged between 1-12 years. The samples were examined for the presence of Trichuris trichiura ova using direct smear and formalin-ether concentration techniques. The result revealed that the overall prevalence of Trichuris trichiura infection was 43.7%. The infection was higher in males (51.6%) compared to females (37.5%), though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). According to age group, the school-aged children had higher prevalence of infection (56.8%) than preschool children (29.4%) (p < 0.05). Low socioeconomic status, large family size, poor environmental sanitation and poor personal hygiene are possible contributing factors that increase the prevalence of infection among the Orang Asli children at Pos Lenjang. In 31 samples positive for Trichuris trichiura, a detection rate of 100% was obtained using formalin-ether concentration, compared to 25.8% with direct smear technique. Thus, it is recommended that both techniques be performed in routine faecal examination for a more accurate diagnosis.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  8. Fulltext Influencing factors for cholera and diarrhoea: water sanitation and hygiene in impoverished rural villages of Beluran District, Sabah Malaysia
    Zin, Thant, SabaiAung, Tin, Sahipudin Saupin, Myint, Than, KhinSN, Daw, Aung, Meiji Soe, et al.
    Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2015;15(1):0-0.
    MyJurnal
    The lower percentage of water, sanitation and hygiene are the root causes of diarrhoea and cholera. Cholera is a sudden onset of acute watery diarrhoea which can progress to severe dehydration and death if untreated. The current pandemic, Vibrio Cholera O1 started in 1961. This study explores water, sanitation, hygiene and cholera and diarrhoea in three affected villages of Beluran District, Sabah Malaysia to support effective and timely public health intervention. This cross sectional study uses purposive sampling. All (114) households were interviewed and household water samples collected. The study reported lower coverage improved sanitation facilities (35.3% to 52.3%), no latrine at home (37% to 63%), improved water supply (52% to 60%), and prevalence of hand washing after toilet (57% - 74%). For water quality, Ecoli was present in household water (32% to 37%) but Vibrio cholerae was not isolated in any of the water samples tested. Statistically significant associations were found for; 1) occupation−nonagriculture and unimproved sanitation facility and 2) house ownership and correct knowledge of ORS preparation. Predictors for household water quality were: latrine at home, and improved household toilet. Aggressive strategies to improve water supply, sanitation and hygiene−hand washing after toilet−were recommended for future prevention of cholera and diarrhoea in the affected area.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  9. Fulltext Revisiting the global problem of cryptosporidiosis and recommendations
    Shrivastava AK, Kumar S, Smith WA, Sahu PS
    Trop Parasitol, 2017 Jan-Jun;7(1):8-17.
    PMID: 28459010 DOI: 10.4103/2229-5070.202290
    Cryptosporidiosis is a gastrointestinal illness caused by the protozoan parasite Cryptosporidium species, which is a leading cause of diarrhea in a variety of vertebrate hosts. The primary mode of transmission is through oral routes; infections spread with the ingestion of oocysts by susceptible animals or humans. In humans, Cryptosporidium infections are commonly found in children and immunocompromised individuals. The small intestine is the most common primary site of infection in humans while extraintestinal cryptosporidiosis occurs in immunocompromised individuals affecting the biliary tract, lungs, or pancreas. Both innate and adaptive immune responses play a critical role in parasite clearance as evident from studies with experimental infection in mice. However, the cellular immune responses induced during human infections are poorly understood. In this article, we review the currently available information with regard to epidemiology, diagnosis, therapeutic interventions, and strategies being used to control cryptosporidiosis infection. Since cryptosporidiosis may spread through zoonotic mode, we emphasis on more epidemiological surveillance-based studies in developing countries with poor sanitation and hygiene. These epidemiological surveys must incorporate fecal source tracking measures to identify animal and human populations contributing significantly to the fecal burden in the community, as mitigation measures differ by host type.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  10. Fulltext Cat flea outbreak in Kuching District, Sarawak
    Lau, S.M., Jamail, M., Sarina, S., Bahtiar, R., Asmad, M.
    Malaysian Journal of Public Health Medicine, 2010;10(1):57-61.
    MyJurnal
    Cat fleas were reported to attack human in RPR Batu Kawa, a housing area about 3 km from Kuching town, resulting in an outbreak. A total of 19 people (10 adults and 9 children) were attacked by fleas. They presented with red spots, slightly raised (swollen) and irritation of skin, mostly found on the ankles and legs. The first 4 cases were reported on 29 September 2007 and the last case was on 17 November 2007. The remaining 12 cases which represent the majority of cases reported on 4th October 2007. The study conducted based mainly on field investigation and flea sampling from animals on field at that moment to find out the causes of the disease spread. Flea samples from human and cats were found to be Ctenocephalides felis; which is the most prevalent species in the world. However, no fleas were found on dog, rabbit and rat. This is the first reported case in Kuching; the study was carried out to determine the cause and the epidemiological pattern of the disease. This is important, because cat flea might attack human especially if house owners fail to monitor their pets and practice proper sanitation method to avoid the presence of cat flea larvae at home.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  11. Risk factors associated with soil transmitted helminth (STH) infection in two indigenous communities in Malaysia
    Nisha M, Aiman M, Asyhira N, Syafiq H, Atiqah N, Kumarasamy V, et al.
    Trop Biomed, 2020 Jun 01;37(2):379-388.
    PMID: 33612807
    Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) could possibly cause mild to severe health effects such as diarrhea, weakness, intestinal blood loss, and impaired cognitive development and growth. In Malaysia, previous studies depicted a high prevalence rate of STH was due to poor hygiene practice and low efficacies of anthelminthic drugs. This study was conducted to investigate hand hygiene practice and WASH criteria's (Water, sanitation and hygiene) related to STH infection among two indigenous tribes in Peninsular Malaysia. A cross-sectional study was carried out to study the relationship among STH infection compared to water quality, sanitation, and hygiene conditions. A total of 190 individuals from two indigenous villages participated in the study, with ages ranging from 5 to 60 years old. In addition, Pearson's Chisquare (X2) test was utilized to test the relationship among STH with demographic socioeconomic and behavioral factors. The confidence interval (CI) of 95% is used to estimate the precision of the odds ratio (OR). Multivariate logistic regression models were also used to identify the risk factors associated with STH infections. The overall findings indicated a prevalence rate of 72% for STH, and distributed mainly among children aged < 12 years. Furthermore, multivariate analyses using logistic regression revealed chronic health problems, incorrect hand washing, and walking bare footed were associated with STH infection. Overall results indicated high prevalence of STH among the indigenous villagers, which aligns with the published literature and proves to be a problem need to be addressed as neglected disease. Interestingly, there was a significant relationship between the presences of chronic diseases and STH infection, which prompted other questions the awareness needs to be educated and the simple and low-cost intervention on the proper way of hand washing may help to reduce STH infection in these indigenous communities.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  12. Fulltext Helminthiasis among Indian preschoolers from urban areas in Penang
    Vikneswaran Sabramani, Halim Ismail, Asrul Abdul Wahab
    Int J Public Health Res, 2015;5(2):584-591.
    MyJurnal
    Introduction Helminthiasis is a common parasitic condition particularly among children in
    rural areas in developing countries where poor hygiene standard is practiced.
    The study aimed to determine the prevalence of helminthiasis among Indian
    preschoolers in urban areas in Penang and its associated factors.

    Methods A total of 194 urban Indian preschoolers aged 4 to 6 years old were selected
    randomly from 11 kindergartens in the state of Penang for this cross sectional
    study. Data collection was carried out in 2 phases. First, microscopic stool
    examinations were done to examine the presence of helminths. Second, self
    administered questionnaires which inquired about human, environment and
    socioeconomic factors were completed by the parents/guardians.

    Results The overall prevalence of helminthiasis was 7.2% and the most frequently
    encountered infective agent was Ascaris lumbricoides (57.1%) and followed
    by the tapeworms (42.86%). The logistic regression indicated that habitual
    thumb sucking (AOR= 5.6. 95%CI: 1.73-18.39) and families owning
    domestic pets (AOR= 3.2; 95%CI: 1.03-10.14) were the significant
    contributing factors to helminthiasis among the Indian pre-schoolers in urban
    Penang. Although the prevalence of helminth infection among the urban
    Indian preschoolers is lower than rural area, it is still a public health concern.
    Children habitual thumb sucking and rearing domestic pets at home were the
    significant contributing factors in helminthiasis.

    Conclusion Prevention strategy should focus on health education and promotion among
    adults and children, awareness on domestic animal hygiene and maintaining
    good environmental sanitation. Multi agency collaboration is clearly
    essential, especially between state health, education and veterinary
    departments in curbing this disease.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  13. Fulltext Influencing factors for household water quality improvement in reducing diarrhoea in resource-limited areas
    Zin T, Mudin KD, Myint T, Naing DKS, Sein T, Shamsul BS
    WHO South East Asia J Public Health, 2013 Jan-Mar;2(1):6-11.
    PMID: 28612817 DOI: 10.4103/2224-3151.115828
    BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Water and sanitation are major public health issues exacerbated by rapid population growth, limited resources, disasters and environmental depletion. This study was undertaken to study the influencing factors for household water quality improvement for reducing diarrhoea in resource-limited areas.

    MATERIALS AND METHODS: Data were collected from articles and reviews from relevant randomized controlled trials, new articles, systematic reviews and meta-analyses from PubMed, World Health Organization (WHO), United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and WELL Resource Centre For Water, Sanitation And Environmental Health.

    DISCUSSION: Water quality on diarrhoea prevention could be affected by contamination during storage, collection and even at point-of-use. Point-of-use water treatment (household-based) is the most cost-effective method for prevention of diarrhoea. Chemical disinfection, filtration, thermal disinfection, solar disinfection and flocculation and disinfection are five most promising household water treatment methodologies for resource-limited areas.

    CONCLUSION: Promoting household water treatment is most essential for preventing diarrhoeal disease. In addition, the water should be of acceptable taste, appropriate for emergency and non-emergency use.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  14. Fulltext The Power of Multidimensional Poverty in Explaining Life Expectancy: Empirical Evidence from Cross-Sectional Data of 62 Developing Countries
    Tafran K, Tumin M, Osman AF
    Iran J Public Health, 2020 Sep;49(9):1709-1717.
    PMID: 33643946 DOI: 10.18502/ijph.v49i9.4088
    Background: We examined whether multidimensional poverty index (MPI) explained variations in life expectancy (LE) better than income poverty; and assessed the relative importance of MPI indicators in influencing LE.

    Methods: Cross-sectional data from 62 developing countries were used to run several multivariate linear regressions. R2 was used to compare the powers of MPI with income-poverties (income poverty gaps [IPG] at 1.9 and 3.1 USD) in explaining LE.

    Results: Adjusting for controls, both MPI (β =-0.245, P<0.001) and IPG at 3.1 USD (β=-0.135, P=0.044) significantly correlates with LE, but not IPG at 1.9 USD (β=-0.147, P=0.135). MPI explains 12.1% of the variation in LE compared to only 3.2% explained by IPG at 3.1 USD. The effect of MPI on LE is higher on female (β=-0.210, P<0.001) than male (β=-0.177, P<0.001). The relative influence of the deprivation indictors on LE ranks as follows (most to least): Asset ownership, drinking water, cooking fuel, flooring, child school attendance, years of schooling, nutrition, mortality, improved sanitation, and electricity.

    Conclusion: Interventions to reduce poverty and improve LE should be guided by MPI, not income poverty indices. Such policies should be female-oriented and prioritized based on the relative influence of the various poverty deprivation indicators on LE.

    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  15. The relationship between poverty and fertility in Peninsular Malaysia: a district analysis
    Teo Cheok Chin P
    Tijdschr Econ Soc Geogr, 1989;80(5):284-301.
    PMID: 12157771
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation*
  16. The NADI program and the JOICFP integrated project: partners in delivering primary health care
    Arshat H, Othman R, Kuan Lin Chee, Abdullah M
    JOICFP Rev, 1985 Oct;10:10-5.
    PMID: 12313881
    PIP:
    The NADI program (pulse in Malay) was initially launched as a pilot project in 1980 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. It utilized an integrated approach involving both the government and the private sectors. By sharing resources and expertise, and by working together, the government and the people can achieve national development faster and with better results. The agencies work through a multi-level supportive structure, at the head of which is the steering committee. The NADI teams at the field level are the focal points of services from the various agencies. Members of NADI teams also work with urban poor families as well as health groups, parents-teachers associations, and other similar groups. The policy and planning functions are carried out by the steering committee, the 5 area action committees and the community action committees, while the implementation function is carried out by the area program managers and NADI teams. The chairman of each area action committee is the head of the branch office of city hall. Using intestinal parasite control as the entry point, the NADI Integrated Family Development Program has greatly helped in expanding inter-agency cooperation and exchange of experiences by a coordinated, effective and efficient resource-mobilization. The program was later expanded to other parts of the country including the industrial and estate sectors. Services provided by NADI include: comprehensive health services to promote maternal and child health; adequate water supply, proper waste disposal, construction of latrines and providing electricity; and initiating community and family development such as community education, preschool education, vocational training, family counseling and building special facilities for recreational and educational purposes.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation*
  17. Fulltext The Neglected Cestode Infection: Epidemiology of Hymenolepis Nana Infection Among Children in Rural Yemen
    Al-Mekhlafi HM
    Helminthologia, 2020 Dec;57(4):293-305.
    PMID: 33364898 DOI: 10.2478/helm-2020-0038
    Hymenolepis nana is the most common cestode reported in humans worldwide. It is prevalent among children in the tropics and subtropics, particularly in rural poor communities where sanitation is inadequate or lacking. This cross-sectional study aims to determine the prevalence and significant risk factors of H. nana infection among children in rural Yemen. Faecal samples were collected from 498 children and screened for intestinal parasites by using wet mount, formalin-ether concentration and Kato-Katz techniques. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect demographic, socioeconomic, housing condition, and personal hygiene information. Overall, 77.5 % (386/498) of the children were found to be infected by at least one intestinal parasite species. The overall prevalence of H. nana was 17.5 % (87/498). Multivariate analysis confirmed that an age of < 6 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.28; 95 % (confidence interval [CI] = 2.04, 8.98), presence of other family members infected with H. nana (AOR = 2.48; 95 % CI = 1.45, 4.24), living in the highlands (AOR = 2.87; 95 % CI = 1.56, 5.26), living in a house without improved toilet facilities (AOR = 2.19; 95 % CI = 1.23, 3.88), not washing vegetables before consumption (AOR = 2.11; 95 % CI = 1.06, 4.19), and not washing hands after defecation (AOR = 1.88; 95 % CI = 1.08, 3.27) were the key factors significantly associated with H. nana infection among the studied children. In conclusion, H. nana is prevalent among children in rural Yemen, particularly among preschool-aged children. Thus, an integrated and effective programme to control intestinal parasitic infections should include preschool-aged children. Such a programme should focus on providing health education on hygienic practices, providing adequate sanitation and improved sources of drinking water, and screening and treating other infected family members.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  18. Migration in Malaysian aborigines: clinical observations in pregnancy
    Ong HC
    Southeast Asian J. Trop. Med. Public Health, 1975 Sep;6(3):407-412.
    PMID: 1221499
    This study presents clinical observations in pregnancy made on aborigines of the deep jungle and "outside" populations. Migration out of the jungle results in lowered nutritional status as a result of low socio-economic status in the "outside" aborigine. This, together with food habits, increased family size and higher incidence of helminthic infestations, results in lower mean values of Hb, PVC and MCHC and a higher prevalence of anaemia in pregnancy in the migrant aborigine. A higher population density in the "outside" population resulting in frequent intermingling and increased chances of cross-contamination probably explains the increased vaginal bacterial growth in the "outside" Aborigine women. A higher prevalence of vaginal candidiasis in the "outside" aborigine woman is probably related to exposure to oral contraceptives and broad-spectrum antibiotics. On the other hand, better medical and obstetrical services become more readily available to the "outside" aborigine and this results in a favourable influence on perinatal health.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  19. Fulltext Prevalence and risk factors of geohelminthiasis among the rural village children in Kota Marudu, Sabah, Malaysia
    Lim-Leroy A, Chua TH
    PLoS One, 2020;15(9):e0239680.
    PMID: 32986746 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0239680
    Geohelminthiasis is a worldwide problem, especially in low-income countries. Children from rural areas and those living in poverty, lacking basic health amenities and having poor environmental sanitation are likely to be affected. Adverse effects such as anemia, protein malnutrition, colitis are common which can affect both the children's physical and mental growing development. A cross-sectional study on geohelminthiasis was conducted among children from 238 households in 13 villages in Kota Marudu of northern Sabah, East Malaysia. The study involved interviewing villagers using questionnaires to collect demographic and socio-economic data, getting faecal samples from the children, collecting soil samples and identifying parasite eggs with microscopy and molecular methods. A total of 407 children (6 months-17 years old) enrolled in the study. Geohelminthiasis was detected in the faecal samples of children from 54% (7/13) of the villages with mean prevalence of infection per village of 9.0% (0%-34.9%). On a household basis, 18% (43/238) of the households sampled had infected children, with mean prevalence rate per household of 11% (0%-43%). The prevalence was for Ascaris lumbricoides: 9.6% (39/407), Trichuris trichiura: 2.7% (11/407) and hookworms (Necator americanus and Ancylostoma sp.): 2.7% (11/407). The overall mean infection rate of the children examined was 14.3%. Significantly higher prevalence was recorded for the children of mothers who did not have any formal education (p = 0.003); household income of less than USD119 (RM500) (p<0.001); children from homes without proper sanitation facilities (p<0.001); children who usually go about barefoot (p<0.001) and not washing feet before entering the house (p = 0.017). Soil samples were found to have geohelminth eggs or larvae which could be due to unhygienic sanitation practices. This study shows the geohelminthiasis is prevalent in the villages, and the risk factors are lack of maternal education, low income, poor sanitation facilities and irregular deworming practice. Expanding deworming coverage in the study region may help reduce the worm infections in these communities, so that the mental and physical development of the children would not be affected by geohelminthiasis. The data on the prevalence of geohelminthiasis in this study would contribute to better public health monitoring and operation to reduce the infection in rural areas.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation
  20. Fulltext Socio-economic development and mortality patterns and trends in Malaysia
    Tan Poo Chang, Kwok Kwan Kit, Tan Boon Ann, Shyamala Nagaraj, Tey Nai Peng, Siti Norazah Zulkifli
    Asia Pac Popul J, 1987 Mar;2(1):3-20.
    PMID: 12341034
    PIP: Morality in Peninsular Malaysia has reached a level that is quite similar to that prevailing in the low mortality countries. This article systematically documents changes in mortality levels and differentials in Malaysia over time and relates these to changes in development indicators and health-related policies. Remedial measures undertaken by the authorities including the expansion of hospital and health services into the estates, together with a comprehensive malaria-eradication program, improvements in sanitation laws, and increased provision of public utilities and education, resulted in beriberi being eliminated and the incidence of malaria, typhus, and smallpox being greatly reduced by the time of World War II. The gain in life expectancy over the period of 1957-1979 was greatest for the Malay, the most significant period being 1957-1967, which saw the introduction of rural health programs. The infant mortality rate and the neonatal and post-neonatal rates declined substantially for all ethnic groups in Peninsular Malaysia for the same time period. Although the lower infant mortality of the Chinese can be explained by their advantageous socioeconomic position the same reason cannot explain the lower decline in infant mortality levels of the Indians. Much still needs to be done to narrow, if not to eliminate, the existing mortality differentials of different groups in the country. Overall, the quality of life of the general population can be further enhanced by reducing the high mortality level of disadvantaged groups.
    Matched MeSH terms: Sanitation*
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