A comprehensive study on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) on intestinal parasitic infections among schoolchildren in developing countries

• Main Authors: Laoque, Jezzica D'Andre Raquel, Enrile, Joelle Alessandra Cuesta, Saringan, Reggie Ballestar
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2023
• Subjects: Intestines—Diseases—Infections; Biology
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etdb_bio/42; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/etdb_bio/article/1049/viewcontent/2023_Enrile_Laoque_Saringan_A_Comprehensive_Study_on_the_Knowledge_Attitudes_Full_text.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

Intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions like Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. Over 267 million preschool children and 568 million schoolchildren reside in regions heavily affected by these infections and require treatment and preventive measures. Protozoan parasites, like Entamoeba histolytica, and soil-transmitted helminths, such as Ascaris lumbricoides, Ancylostoma duodenale/Necator americanus, and Trichuris trichiura, are among the most common causes of these infections. Understanding the root causes and formulating solutions based on the underlying factors may be beneficial in mitigating the spread of the infections associated with these parasites. The study aimed to review the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of schoolchildren in developing countries regarding the prevention of intestinal parasitic infections. This was achieved by comparing secondary data to determine the lapses that promote the transmission of the aforementioned infections. Additionally, the study aimed to propose solutions to help lessen further infections. The secondary data that was utilized in the study were limited to published references dating from 1987 to 2022, except for literature that was used for historical purposes. Findings indicate that Sub-Saharan Africa has higher percentages for questions related to knowledge compared to Asia, whereas Asia has higher percentages for attitudes and practices in contrast to Sub-Saharan Africa. Several knowledge gaps and attitudes promoting the spread of intestinal parasitic infections were identified, such as a limited understanding of the modes of transmission and neglecting hand hygiene practices. To improve the KAP of schoolchildren regarding intestinal parasitic infections, it is essential to identify the root causes and implement community-based programs as such programs have been proven to be successful in the improvement of KAP in previous studies. The study emphasizes the urgency to address gaps in knowledge by disseminating reliable information to prevent negative health consequences and further intestinal parasitic infections.