Relationship of intestinal parasites in urban communities in Abha to socioenvironmental factors

ABSTRACT

The prevalence of intestinal parasites and their relationship to family income, level of education, and source of drinking water was studied in a 20% random sample in two urban communities in Abha City. The sample included 942 individuals, and stool specimens were obtained and examined from 722 of them [76.7% response]. Only two pathogenic parasites [Giardia Iamblia and Entamoeba histolytica] were detected in this sample, with prevalence rates of 3.6% and 1.7% respectively. The non-pathogenic Entamoeba coli was detected in 7.9% of the sample. Higher parasitic prevalence rates were associated with lower income and with lower educational level. Higher infection rate with G. lamblia seems to be linked to the consumption of well-water for drinking