Effects of Enterobiasis on primary school children

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible adverse effects of Enterobiasis vermicularis infection on primary school children in Sivas, Turkey, to know whether it affects their school success, mean weight and height or not. Seven primary schools in the central region of Sivas were included in the present study. A total number of 3659 questionnaires were completed by class teachers and parents for each student. In the questionnaire, the height and weight of children, school success and other information about children were asked. The stool and cellophane tape specimens collected from the participated students were examined by light microscopy for the diagnosis of enterobiasis. The 365 (17.0%) out of 3569 of parasitic infections were E. vermicularis along with other parasites, and the 225 (10.5%) out of 3569 had only E. vermicularis. The weights and heights were found to be lower in children with enterobiasis. When school successes of the students were compared, there were statistically significant differences between the non parasitic group and the group with E. vermicularis. Enterobiasis is still an important problem seen among primary school children causing adverse effects on school success and physical growth especially in children from the first grades of primary schools.