Tackling Soil-Transmitted Infections Among Adolescents

Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) is a major Health issue around the world, especially in poorer communities where access to clean water and proper Sanitation is lacking. These Infections are caused by different types of worms, and the most common ones include roundworms, whipworms, and hookworms. Together, these parasites affect nearly 25% of the global population, leading to a significant number of people living with disabilities.

In areas with poor sanitation and hygiene, the chances of getting STH infections are higher. For instance, children who are born to mothers with these infections during pregnancy are more likely to get infected when they are young. Certain practices, such as eating dirt, not using toilets properly, and walking barefoot, also increase the risk of these infections.

In Nigeria, especially in the southern regions, STH infections are a serious concern. The prevalence of these infections varies by region, with the southern areas experiencing higher rates than the north. To control these infections, mass drug administration (MDA) is recommended alongside community education about health and hygiene, as well as improving access to clean water and sanitation facilities. However, many Adolescents are often not included in these initiatives, which can lead to repeated infections in treated children.

While many studies have looked at STH infections in various communities, there is still a lack of information specifically about adolescents. This is critical since their health is tied to the future workforce and economic stability of the region. Therefore, more research is needed to understand how widespread STH infections are among adolescents and what factors make it hard to control these infections.

#Study Area

This research was conducted in Anaocha Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State in southeastern Nigeria. Anaocha LGA is one of the many local government areas in the state, covering about 171.62 square kilometers with a population of around 418,360 people across ten communities. The area selected for the study included two communities: Adazi-Nnukwu and Agulu, chosen randomly to ensure fairness.

Both communities have a predominantly Igbo population who speak English and traditional languages. The main religions in the area are Christianity and traditional beliefs. The local environment is mostly tropical rainforest, although human activities have altered it. The climate is humid with a distinct dry season and a rainy season. Most people in these communities work as farmers, traders, civil servants, or teachers. Healthcare facilities in the area struggle due to a lack of qualified personnel and proper equipment, and open defecation is common due to inadequate public toilets. Most public schools here serve students from lower-income families, complicating the issues of access to quality education and healthcare.

#Study Design

The research was structured as a cross-sectional study that took place over several months. The focus was primarily on government-owned secondary schools that had both male and female students. Participants were adolescents aged 10 to 19 who had lived in the communities for at least three years. Those who were already receiving medication for these infections or had taken treatment in the month before the study were excluded.

#Study Population

The study involved secondary school students from two selected schools, Union Secondary School in Agulu and Community Secondary School in Adazi-Nnukwu. The age range of participants was from 10 to 19 years, and parental consent was obtained for those under 18.

#Sample Size and Sampling Technique

The sample size for the study was determined using certain statistical methods, and it was set at 443 to ensure reliability, considering potential dropouts.

Random selections were made from different school classes to get a representative sample of the population.

#Data Collection

Researchers used questionnaires and interviews to gather information about the participants. They collected data on various factors, including age, class, parents’ jobs, education level, type of toilet facilities at home, and drinking water sources. The students’ knowledge of STH infections, hygiene practices, and deworming history was also recorded. To gather more detailed insights, discussion groups with small groups of adolescents were held.

#Stool Sample Collection and Examination

Stool samples were collected from each adolescent in labeled containers. These samples were then sent to a laboratory for examination using a common method to check for the presence of STH eggs. The results were used to determine the infection rates and severity among the participants.

#Quality Control and Data Analysis

To ensure the data collected was accurate and complete, daily checks were conducted. The results were compiled and analyzed statistically to determine the prevalence of infections and potential risk factors associated with STH.

#Ethical Considerations

Ethical approval for the study was obtained, and parents and guardians were informed about the study's aims. Written consent was secured from older adolescents, while younger ones provided assent through their parents.

#Socio-Demographic Characteristics and Hygiene Conditions

A total of 443 adolescents participated in the study, with slightly more girls than boys. The average age was around 14 years, with a majority coming from Agulu. Many of their parents were traders, and a significant number had completed secondary education. Unfortunately, none of the schools had toilet facilities.

#Prevalence of Soil-Transmitted Helminths

The overall prevalence of STH infection among the adolescents was found to be 35.2%, indicating that the area is at moderate risk for these infections. The most common parasite detected was roundworm, followed by whipworm and hookworm. There were instances of single and multiple infections, with some adolescents affected by more than one type of worm.

Interestingly, the rates of infection were slightly higher in boys compared to girls, and they were more common in younger adolescents. Those who had some awareness about STH infections were also found to have higher infection rates.

#Intensity of Infections

The study revealed that all infected adolescents had light infections of roundworm, whipworm, and hookworm. The average number of worm eggs found was low, suggesting that while infections do exist, the immediate health risk might be less severe. However, even light infections can contribute to other health issues in the community.

#Risk Factors Associated with Infections

The research highlighted several risk factors linked to STH infections among adolescents. Those with little to no knowledge about these infections were significantly more likely to be infected. Education about STH in schools and through specific programs seemed to reduce the risk of infection. The occupation and education level of parents also played a role, with adolescents from certain backgrounds having a higher chance of being infected.

Additionally, the research suggested that inadequate toilet and water facilities in schools contributed to higher infection rates. The use of certain types of toilets at home was also found to have an impact on infection likelihood.

#Conclusion

The results of this study indicate that STH infections remain a concern among adolescents in Anaocha LGA, despite ongoing efforts to control them. This suggests that mass drug administration programs may not sufficiently reach this age group, creating opportunities for ongoing transmission.

It is essential to broaden the scope of interventions to include adolescents alongside younger children to reduce the overall burden of these infections in the community. Health education and improved sanitation measures are vital to decrease infection rates and promote better health outcomes. Engaging the community through innovative programs can further enhance awareness and encourage healthier behaviors.

By understanding and addressing these factors, it is possible to make strides in controlling soil-transmitted helminthiasis and improving public health for adolescents and their communities.