
Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) remain a major public health challenge in developing countries, particularly among women of low socio-economic status. Obstetric fistula patients are especially vulnerable due to poor hygiene, malnutrition, and limited access to healthcare. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and socio-demographic determinants of intestinal parasitic infections among obstetric fistula patients in Kano, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 obstetric fistula patients attending the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. Structured questionnaires were administered to obtain socio-demographic data, and stool samples were examined using direct saline/iodine wet mount and formol-ether concentration techniques. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS (version 29). Associations between infection and socio-demographic factors were tested using Chi-square at a 5% significance level. Results: Out of 250 samples examined, 41 (16.4%) were positive for at least one intestinal parasite. The most prevalent species were Ascaris lumbricoides (5.6%) and Entamoeba histolytica (4.4%). Infection prevalence was significantly associated with rural residence (χ² = 4.62; p = 0.032), unemployment (χ² = 5.89; p = 0.015), and open defecation (χ² = 6.74; p = 0.034). Other factors such as age, water source, and refuse disposal were not statistically significant. Conclusion: The study revealed a moderate prevalence of intestinal parasitic infections among obstetric fistula patients, primarily influenced by poor sanitation and socio-economic disadvantage. Integrating parasitological screening into fistula care, improving sanitation, and ensuring access to safe water are essential to reduce infection burden and enhance patient recovery.
Intestinal parasites, Kano State, Nigeria., UKR Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies (UKRJMS), Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Determinants of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Obstetric Fistula Patients in Kano, Nigeria, Socio-demographic factors, Obstetric fistula
Intestinal parasites, Kano State, Nigeria., UKR Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies (UKRJMS), Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Determinants of Intestinal Parasitic Infections among Obstetric Fistula Patients in Kano, Nigeria, Socio-demographic factors, Obstetric fistula
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