Prevalence And Socioeconomic Impact Of Intestinal Parasitic Infections In School-Age Children Attending Private And Public School

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections remain a significant public health concern globally, particularly affecting school-age children in developing countries. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasites and identify hygiene-related predictors among school-going children in Peshawar, Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2023, involving 162 school children aged 5–15 years from two public and two private schools in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Stool samples were collected and examined using direct wet mount and formal ether concentration techniques. Data on socio-demographic factors and hygiene practices were gathered through a pretested structured questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS-22. Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections was 43.2% (70/162). Children attending public schools showed significantly higher infection rates (51.8%) compared to those in private schools (34.5%) (p=0.02). Male students demonstrated higher prevalence (50.0%) than female students (35.5%) (p<0.05). Nine parasite species were identified, with Entamoeba histolytica being the most prevalent (30.0%), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (17.0%), Hymenolepis nana (10.0%), and Enterobius vermicularis (10.0%). Significant associations were found between parasitic infections and finger sucking (p=0.03), nail biting (p=0.01), proper hand washing with soap (p<0.001), and proper toilet use (p=0.01). Socioeconomic status also correlated with infection rates, with children from poorer families showing higher prevalence. Conclusion: The high prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among school children in Peshawar, particularly in public schools and among lower socioeconomic groups, underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions. Comprehensive strategies including improved health education, access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and promotion of proper hygiene practices are essential to reduce the burden of parasitic infections and support healthy child development in Pakistan.

Keywords: Intestinal parasites, school children, prevalence, hygiene practices, socioeconomic factors, Peshawar, Pakistan