Журнал бактериологии и паразитологии

Абстрактный

Prevalence and risk factors of taeniasis in the Bunkpurugu-Yunyu district of northern Ghana

Langbong Bimi, Amos Kankponang Laar and Francis Anto

Although Taenia solium infection and cysticercosis have been documented as major causes of acquired epilepsy and their recognition as important public health hazards has increased over the past 10 years, information is lacking on the disease burden of Taenia solium infection and its associated risk factors in rural communities in northern Ghana. This study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of taeniasis and document its associated risk factors. The study describes the results of a cross-sectional survey involving 494 participants randomly selected by village from a population of 99,729 in 4 villages. Stool samples from the selected individuals were examined for ova/eggs of worms using the Kato-Katz method. Ova were detected in 65 individuals (13.15%) in Kato smears. Four factors were found to be associated with taeniasis infection on multivariate analysis. Family member's disease history and pork consumption were the main predictors of infection (P-value=0.003 and 0.001 respectively). Among pork consumers, those who chose pitted pork and people who consumed pork lung soups prepared in markets were observed to have higher odds of infection. Furthermore, Taenia cysts were detected in 18.8% (22/117) of pigs slaughtered for consumption in the area. These carcasses were either consumed or smoked and transported to towns in the southern sector for sale. Although pig farming was mainly undertaken by women in the area to supplement household income, the farming practices (food and feeding habits) were poor. Health education on the need for sanitation and hygiene and mass administration of deworming drugs in the area are recommended.