Helminth prevalence among adults in rural Kenya: A stool survey for soil-transmitted helminths and schistosomiasis in Nyanza province

Abstract

Background: Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) prevalence in children is high in rural southwestern Kenya, but adult prevalence data are scarce. A 2010 study of a village in Nyanza province found a pediatric STH prevalence of 44% using a direct stool-smear method. Adult STH prevalence and associated predictors was measured in the same village. Methods: Adults (≥18 years) presenting at the out-patient department of the small hospital or community outreach events completed a short questionnaire and provided stool samples. Light microscopy for ova and larvae was conducted using a stool concentration technique to improve sensitivity. Multivariable regression models were used to identify predictors of STH prevalence. Results: Among 344 adults, STH prevalence was 15.7% (54/344). Hookworm was most common (13.1%; 45/344), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (6.1%; 21/344) and Trichuris trichiura (0.6%; 2/344). Twelve participants (3.5%; 12/344) had multiple STHs and three (0.9%; 3/344) had Schistosoma mansoni. Female sex, older age and lower education level were significant STH predictors. Conclusions: Adult STH prevalencewas lower than previous studies of children from the same village. Adults with the identified risk factors had a prevalence of ≥20%, which may warrant periodic, targeted deworming of adults with these risk factors given the low cost and low toxicity of anthelmintic drugs.