Geospatial analysis and epidemiological aspects of human infections with Blastocystis hominis in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran / 한국역학회지
Epidemiology and Health
;
: 2019009-2019.
Article
in English
| WPRIM
| ID: wpr-785777
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES:
Blastocystis hominis is a very common large intestinal protozoan with global prevalence in humans and non-human hosts. No precise statistics exist regarding the geographical distribution of Blastocystis that would enable the identification of high-risk communities. Therefore, the current research aimed to characterize the spatial patterns and demographic factors associated with B. hominis occurrence in northern Iran.METHODS:
The current study was performed among 4,788 individuals referred to health centers in Mazandaran Province, from whom stool samples were obtained. Socio-demographic data were gathered using a questionnaire. Samples were examined by a direct wet mount, the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique, and trichrome staining. Moran local indicators of spatial association and a geographically weighted regression model were utilized to analyze the results.RESULTS:
Generally, the infection rate of Blastocystis parasites was 5.2%, and was considerably higher in the age group of 10-14 years (10.6%) than in other age groups (p=0.005). Our data showed important associations between the occurrence of B. hominis and age, residence, job, contact with domestic animals, anti-parasitic drug consumption, and elevation above sea level (p<0.001).CONCLUSIONS:
The current study characterized for the first time the infection rate and risk of B. hominis in the north of Iran, and produced a prediction map. It is expected that this map will help policymakers to plan and implement preventive measures in high-risk areas and to manage already-infected patients.
Full text:
Available
Index:
WPRIM (Western Pacific)
Main subject:
Parasites
/
Demography
/
Epidemiology
/
Prevalence
/
Blastocystis hominis
/
Blastocystis
/
Geographic Information Systems
/
Spatial Regression
/
Iran
/
Animals, Domestic
Type of study:
Prevalence study
/
Prognostic study
Limits:
Humans
Country/Region as subject:
Asia
Language:
English
Journal:
Epidemiology and Health
Year:
2019
Type:
Article
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