Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Hemoglobin Levels among Schoolchildren participating in a Deworming Program in Jakarta, Indonesia: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Deworming programs have had positive impacts on the incidence of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels among schoolchildren.
 AIM: This study aimed to evaluate effects of a deworming program on IPIs and Hb levels among schoolchildren in Jakarta, Indonesia.
 METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed in one school in Jakarta, Indonesia. Stool samples from schoolchildren were examined using the direct smear and Kato-Katz methods. The Hb concentrations of the schoolchildren were measured using the Easy Touch GCHb tool kit.
 RESULTS: A total of 219 stool samples were obtained, and 18.7% (41/219) were positive for IPIs; specifically 8.2% (18/219) were positive for helminth and 10.5% (23/219) were positive for protozoan infections. The prevalences of Ascaris lumbricoides and Trichuris trichiura were 6.4% and 1.8%, respectively. The prevalences of Blastocystis hominis, Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Entamoeba coli were 6.8%, 2.7%, 0.5%, and 0.5%, respectively. The prevalence of anemia (Hb < 11.5 g/dL) among the schoolchildren was 19.6% (43/219). The IPIs were significantly associated with Hb concentrations among the schoolchildren (p < 0.05).
 CONCLUSION: The results of this study support the use of integrated programs involving deworming, nutrient supplementation, development of good living conditions, use of sanitary facilities, and active participation in the community to reduce IPIs and to improve the nutritional status among schoolchildren.