Prevalence of helminths in a rural population using wastewater for agricultural purposes at Settat (Morocco)

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to assess the risk associated with the use of unpurified wastewater for agricultural purposes, in particular, the risk of fecal transmission of intestinal helminths. The survey concerned 214 exposed subjects (mean age: 28.6 +/- 19.4 years; 52.8% female and 47.2% male) living in two villages that use raw wastewater for agriculture and 119 control subjects (mean age: 31.8 +/- 19.5 years, 50.4% female and 49.6% male), living in a village that does not use wastewater. All three villages are located around the city of Settat, in Morocco. All subjects agreeing to participate received a complete clinical examination, including a history, physical examination, and testing of stool samples taken on three consecutive days. The prevalence of intestinal helminths in the exposed population was 4.7%, compared with 0% for the control population, a statistically significant difference. Prevalence was slightly higher among men. Those at either end of the age spectrum were affected most heavily - essentially children aged from 3 to 14 years and those older than 60 years. Ascaris lumbricoides is the helminth observed most frequently, with a prevalence of 4.2%. In conclusion, the use of raw wastewater in agriculture increases the risk of helminthiasis. Preventive measures are essential, especially health education and adequate treatment of used waters.