Association of Intestinal Parasites With Helicobacter Pylori Infection in Patient Attending Benha University Hospital

Abstract

Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and anemia are common conditions among children, especially in developing countries. Schoolchildren are particularly susceptible to these conditions, which can affect their school performance. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of IPIs and anemia among schoolchildren in Amran Governorates, north of Yemen, and to investigate the association between the two conditions. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 230 school-children aged 7-15 years in primary schools, Amran Governorate from January to February 2023.Sociodemographic data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and stool samples were collected, processed and examined for parasites. Hemoglobin level was also measured using a portable hemoglobin meter. Binary logistic regression was used to test the association of sociodemographic characteristics and anemia with IPIs at P-values <0.05. The prevalence of IPIs among schoolchildren was 57.4%, with Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (35.7%) the most common, followed by Giardia lamblia (25.2%) and then Hymenolepis nana (13%). However, a few children were infected with Enterobius vermicularis, Schistosoma mansoni and Trichuris trichiura. Most children were monoinfected (66.7%), followed by those with two parasite species (30.3%). But, anemia was prevalent among 17.4% of children. There was no significant association between IPIs and sociodemographic characteristics of children. However, anemia was significantly associated with IPIs (odds ratio = 6.7, 95% confidence interval: 2.52 17.87; P <0.001).