Behavioral Risk Factors Associated with Intestinal Parasitic Infestations among Children in Rural Areas

Background: Intestinal parasitic infestations (IPIs) still remain an important public health problem among children in developing countries including Egypt. Identification of behavioral risk factors among children is important for the effective prevention and control of these infestations.

Aim: This study aimed to assess behavioral risk factors associated with intestinal parasitic infestations among children in rural areas.

Design: A descriptive exploratory design was utilized.

Sample: Convenient sample of 120 children suffering from intestinal parasitic infestations and their mothers.

Tool of data collection: A structured interview questionnaire sheet included questions about behavioral risk factors.

Results: More than half and more than two fifths of children do not wash their hands either before eating or after using toilet respectively, about three quarters and most of children suffering from IPIs for the first time and more than one time respectively were exchanging personal hygienic instruments with their family’ members, more than two fifths and slightly more than three fifths of children suffering from IPIs for the first time and for more than one time respectively were buying food from street vendors.

Conclusion: Neglecting washing hands before eating and after using toilet, sharing personal hygienic instruments with family’ members and eating from food handlers were the behavioral risk factors associated with IPIs among children.

Recommendation: Develop educational programs to increase public awareness regarding behavioral risk factors associated with intestinal parasitic infestations among children.