Prevalence of intestinal parasites and risk factors for specific and multiple helminth infections in a remote city of the Brazilian amazon

Abstract

Introduction: Few studies have described the risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections in the Amazon. Methods: A crosssectional survey was performed in a City of the State of Amazonas (Brazil) to estimate the prevalence of intestinal parasites and determine the risk factors for helminth infections. Results: Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent parasite. The main risk factors determined were: not having a latrine for A. lumbricoides infection; being male and having earth or wood floors for hookworm infection; and being male for multiple helminth infections. Conclusions: We reported a high prevalence of intestinal parasites and determined some poverty-related risk factors.