Effect of helminths infestations on physical growth and scholastic achievement of preparatory school children

ABSTRACT

School age children typically have the highest intensity of helminths infestation of any age group, and chronic infestation negatively affects all aspects of children's health, nutritional status ,anemia, physical fitness, appetite, growth, cognitive development, learning, educational access, and achievement. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of helminths infestation on physical growth and scholastic achievement of preparatory school children. The subjects of this study included 380 PSC of the third grades [201 girls and 179 boys], who enrolled in 8 governmental preparatory schools of Giza Governorate. A descriptive analytic study design. Tools Five tools were used. 1] A self administrated questionnaire for assessing socio-demographic characteristics. 2] Laboratory investigation for stool analysis; 3] Physical examination of the studied sample; 4] An observation checklist for assessing school environment and 5] Records review of students scholastic achievement. The results found that total helminths infestations was 7.4% for various helminths among PSC. There were statistically significant associated with PSC' mother' education level, father' education level, mother' occupation, father' occupation, home crowding index, daily pocket money, home latrine, physical health score, school environmental sanitation and scholastic achievement at P < 0.001. The organization of health education sessions for PSC, their families and teachers as regard sound health habits and behaviors, proper environmental sanitation, types of helminths and measures for prevention. Annual examination of PSC for helminths infestations and positive cases should be treated and followed up