Intestinal Helminthiasis and Its Association with Hemoglobin Level among Primary School Children in Sokoto Metropolis

Intestinal helminthes are associated with the reduction in the level of haemoglobin. This abnormal
reduction in haemoglobin results in anemia. The study determined the prevalence of parasitic
infection and its relationship with haemoglobin level among primary school children in Sokoto
metropolis. Stool and blood samples were collected from 224 children from some selected primary
schools in Sokoto Metropolis. The stool specimens were examined for parasites by both macroscopic
and microscopic methods (saline and wet iodine mount, and formol-ether concentration) while
haemoglobin concentration in the blood sample was estimated using hemocue hemoglobin method. A
prevalence rate of 8.5% was seen among the children sampled. Hookworm had the highest
prevalence of 3.1%, followed by Hymenolepis nana (1.8%). Ascaris lumbricoides had a prevalence of
1.3%, Schistosoma mansoni (0.9%) and Strongyloides stercoralis (0.4%). 0.9% showed mixed
infection with H. nana and Hookworm. Children within the age group of 4-6years had the highest
prevalence rate (60%). Male children had a higher prevalence (4.5%) than female (4.0%). The mean
haemoglobin concentration in the healthy subject was 11.82 g/dl, while in infected subjects it was
11.03 g/dl, the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The study demonstrated that there was
a low prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis among children in Sokoto metropolis. However, the
haemoglobin concentrations of infected children were significantly affected by parasitic infection. Low
haemoglobin concentration in children can lead to behavioural disturbances as a result of impaired
neurological development and reduced scholastic performance. Based on these findings, efforts must
be made to create better sanitary and toilet facilities in schools at all times to avoid indiscriminate
defecation that could lead to the transmission of helminthic infections.