Intestinal parasites and risk awareness of people living with HIV/AIDS in Debre Brehan Referral Hospital, Debre Brehan, Ethiopia: Intestinal parasites and risk awareness of people living with HIV/AIDS in Debre Brehan Referral Hospital, Debre Brehan, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasites are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in most developing countries which affected more than 3.5 billion people throughout the world. The prevalence of intestinal parasites is relatively high in people living with HIV/AIDS. However, data on the prevalence of intestinal parasites among people living with HIV/ AIDS are insufficient in the study area. Hence, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated risk factors among people living with HIV/AIDS at Debre Brehan Referral Hospital, Central Ethiopia.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 350 people living with HIV/AIDS from March to August 2019. Stool samples were collected with clean screw cupped containers and processed using direct microscopy, formol-ether concentration and modified acid-fast staining laboratory techniques.

Results: The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites among HIV/AIDS patients was 20.3% (71/350). Among these, Entamoeba histolytica/dispar takes the highest rank (13.4%) followed by Gardia lamblia (2.9%). Lack of latrine, high viral load count, and bad health practice of the participants were significantly associated with intestinal parasitosis.

Conclusion: The prevalence of intestinal parasites in this study was high. Thus to reduce the disease burden; government officials and stakeholders should work on reducing risk factors and increase awareness how to prevent and control of acquiring the disease.

Key words: Intestinal parasites, HIV/AIDS, Prevalence, Debre Brehan, Ethiopia