Entamoeba histolytica Infection Among Aborigines at Pos Lenjang, Pahang / Jurnal Sains Kesihatan Malaysia

ABSTRACT

Entamoeba histolytica infection is widespread worldwide and higher prevalence is usually seen among the indigenous under priviledged people living in the tropics and subtropics. Seventy one Orang Asli children from Pos Lenjang, Pahang participated in this study and were grouped according to age and gender. Faecal samples were collected and examined for the presence of Entamoeba histolytica using 3 different diagnostic techniques namely the direct faecal smear, formalin ether concentration and trichrome staining.The prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica infection among the Orang Asli children at Pos Lenjang, Pahang was high at 22.5%. According to gender, female children showed higher prevalence (32.5%) compared to male at only 9.7%. Infection was also apparently higher among the school going children at 32.4% compared to preschool children (11.8%). The high prevalence of Entamoeba histolytica infection amongst the Orang Asli children at Pos Lenjang is related to several factors including low socioeconomic status, lack of basic amenities, culture, and poor knowledge on healthy life practice.