The burden of soil-transmitted helminths infections among pregnant women in Maharashtra and Rajasthan states of India

Context: Soil-transmitted helminths (SIH) infections are among the most common and widespread infections in developing countries where sanitation facilities are inadequate. Aims: This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of STH infections in prenatal mothers in two states in India. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Maharashtra and Rajasthan state of India. We randomly selected one municipal corporation and one rural block from a selected district in each state. Methods and Material: Out of 2400 contacted, 2206 pregnant women gave stool samples for microscopy for parasitological study. The response rate was 89.91%. Stool specimens were transported to an accredited lab and examined microscopically within 24 hrs. Results: Prevalence of STH was 8.34 (95%CI 7.22-9.57). The prevalence in rural and urban areas was 10.01% (95%Cl 8.51-11.74) and 5.76% (95%CI 4.39-7.52), respectively. Ascaris lumbricoides (34.7%) were the most common, followed by Entamoeba histolytica (30.43%), and 20.1% were mixed infections. higher age, walking barefoot, weight gain during pregnancy were significantly associated with STII (p < 0.05). The mean hemoglobin value in women with STH was significantly less (8.75 gm%; SD 4.04) compared to those without STH (10.23 gm%; SD 1.23) (p < 0.05), and average weight gain during pregnancy was significantly less among women with STH (3.80 kg; 4.11) compared to women without STH (8.45 kg; 2.83); (p = 0.000). Conclusion: The study provides valuable insights into the burden and intensity of STH in pregnant women that may support the policy recommendation for deworming during pregnancy.

Automated summary

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of soil-transmitted helminths (SIH) infections in prenatal mothers in two states in India. The results showed that the prevalence of STH was higher in rural areas compared to urban areas, with Ascaris lumbricoides being the most common infection. Age, walking barefoot, and weight gain during pregnancy were significantly associated with STH infections. Pregnant women with STH had lower mean hemoglobin values and less average weight gain during pregnancy compared to those without STH.