Burden of hookworm infestation and association with socio-demographic and clinical factors in a clinical setting in Nigeria

Abstract

Hookworm infestation is a major public health problem in developing countries and infestation in patients including pregnant women could result in anaemia and malnutrition. The study aimed to determine infection burden, socio-demographic risk factors, and impacts of hookworm infestation among pregnant women in Federal Medical Centre Keffi. The study was a cross-sectional survey of pregnant women presenting at the booking clinic of the hospital over 3 months. Participants were recruited using a systematic sampling technique. Their biodata and information on socio-demographic risk factors for hookworm infestation were obtained and recorded in a pre-designed proforma. Participants’ clinical details were also assessed. Stool sample from each participant was analyzed for hookworm presence, egg burden, and participants’ Packed Cell Volume was determined. The data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Categorical variables were compared using Fisher’s exact test while t-test was used for the comparison of continuous variables and Spearman’s Correlation was used to determine the relationship between non-parametric variables. P-value was significant if <0.05 at 95% Confidence Interval. The prevalence of hookworm infestation was 10% while 6% of them were anemic. There was no statistically significant relationship between hookworm infestation and anaemia (P-value =0.911). Hookworm infestation was associated with place of residence, sewage disposal system, and source of drinking water (P-values of 0.012, 0.001, and 0.002 respectively). Prevalence of hookworm infestation among the antenatal attendees was relatively high but had no association with anaemia.