Prevalence of intestinal parasites among children 13-and-under residents in the indigenous land of Xakriabá, Brazil.

Abstract

Introduction: This study reports the prevalence of intestinal parasite infections in Xakriabá indigenous children living in the southeastern region of Brazil. Methodology: Stool samples of 2973 children 13-and-under were analyzed. Associations between environment factors and parasites were evaluated by multivariate Poisson regression model. Results: The prevalence of protozoa was high (Entamoeba histolytica/dispar 16.9%; Giardia duodenalis 18.4%), whereas that of helminthes was low (Schistosoma mansoni 1.2%; Hymenolepis nana 2.2%; hookworm 3.7%; Strongiloydes stercoralis 0.4%; Ascaris lumbricoides 0.4%; Enterobius vermicularis 1%). The risk of protozoan infection increased if the house was located in clay and rocky terrain; it decreased with increasing education of the mother and the presence of toilet in the house. Sex, clay-and-rocky terrain, dry-sump and toilet in the house were associated with prevalence of helminthes. Conclusion: The high prevalence of protozoa infection suggests contamination of water sources with feces, probably due to deficient sanitation and poor hygiene.