Risk Of Intestinal Infections Research Articles

Prevalence of Intestinal Protozoa Infections and Associated Risk Factors among Preschool Aged Children in Mkuranga District, Tanzania: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study

Background Intestinal protozoa infections are among the public health concern in children and can lead to considerable morbidities such as growth retardation, anemia, nutrition deficiency, physical weakness and mental health problems. In Tanzania, there is a paucity of data on intestinal protozoa infections among preschool aged children (PSAC). Broad objective This study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoa infections among PSAC and associated risk factors in Mkuranga district, Tanzania. Methodology A community based cross-sectional study was conducted between April and June 2019 to determine the prevalence of intestinal protozoa. Stool samples were collected from PSAC and processed using formal-ether concentration method. Risk factors were identified using questionnaire and checklist. Data were entered and analysed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software version 20. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to determine association between prevalence of intestinal protozoa and socio-economic, water source, hygiene and sanitation variables. Results A total of 20 (3.8%) children were infected with intestinal protozoa (Entamoeba coli or Giardia lamblia). We found the increased risk of intestinal protozoa infections with increased age of children (AOR = 1.07, p = 0.045). Also, we observed a reduced odds of intestinal protozoa infections among PSAC living in low populated households (AOR 1-5/11+ = 0.14, p = 0.016 and AOR 6-10/11+= 0.10, p = 0.008), using non-spring water (AOR protected well/spring = 0.011, p = 0.023), (AOR bore hole/spring/spring = 0.008, p = 0.006), (AOR tap away of home/spring = 0.013, p = 0.014) and (AOR tape at home/spring = 0.006, p = 0.011)) and raised by young and middle-aged parents/guardian (AOR young/older = 0.20, p = 0.042 and AOR middle-aged/older = 0.18, p = 0.047). Conclusion There was a low prevalence of intestinal protozoa infection among PSAC in the two communities studied. Despite low prevalence of intestinal protozoa, the transmission is present hence the need to initiate control measures. Health education should be provided to parents/guardians on protecting water sources, treatment of drinking water and supervision of latrine usage by PSAC and introduction of hand washing facilities are crucial. Key words: Intestinal protozoa, Preschool aged children, Mkuranga and Tanzania.

Gastroschisis: State of the Art in Translating Experimental Research to the Bedside.

The survival rate of newborns with gastroschisis (GS) has been increasing in the past decades; however, the morbidity continues to be high, mainly related to the length of hospitalization due to disturbances of motility, absorption, and risk of intestinal infections. The development of basic research with the creation of experimental models has provided enormous advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. These models allowed the study of the target genes involved in the embryology of the defect, the influence of the amniotic fluid, and the use of drugs and fetal therapies in an attempt to reduce the intestinal damage and to provide a rapid return of intestinal motility. Our aim was to describe the main GS models and the translational, historical impact of these research advances on the disease.

Heartburn Meds Alter the Gut.

The article discusses the impact of proton-pump inhibitor acid blocking prescription drugs on the bacteriology and microbiome of the human digestive system and risk for intestinal infections. Other topics include bacterial diversity, absorption of calcium, and management by physicians and patients of prescription medication.

Gastric acidity inhibitors and the risk of intestinal infections

We reviewed recent clinical studies performed in adults, children, and neonates exploring the possible association of gastric acidity inhibitors use with intestinal infections. Possible mechanisms have also been reported. Many studies and systematic reviews demonstrate an increased risk of bacterial infection in adults taking acid suppressors. Little evidence is derived from the pediatric population. The use of gastric acidity inhibitors has been associated with systemic infections and necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants. Reduced gastric acidity, delayed gastric emptying, increased gastric mucus viscosity, modification in microbiota, and impairment of neutrophils functions, are all conditions determined by gastric acidity blockers that potentially lead to an increased risk of gastrointestinal infections. A proper utilization of these drugs, particularly for patients at high risk, is imperative in order to reduce deleterious effects on infection risk and to optimize cost-effectiveness ratio.