Author/Authors :
Esther Aniaku, Ifeoma Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Chinenye Onyishi, Grace Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Godwin Nwosu, Chigozie Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Chimdalu Urama, Chiamaka Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Arome Akobe, Nicholas Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Olunna Nnawuihe, Olivia Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria , Somachi Obodo, Chiazor Parasitology and Public Health Unit - Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology - University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Abstract :
Background: The study on lymphatic filariasis (LF) in Igbo-Eze North was conducted
to determine the prevalence and predisposing factors to LF among its residents
between May and October 2018.
Methods: A total of 201 residents who have lived in the area for at least one year
were recruited. They were stratified according to age, gender and occupation, and
were clinically examined firstly by rapid assessment method for any lymphoedema
and hydrocele. At recruitment, blood samples were collected from all volunteered
participants for LF test. In addition, demographic information and risk factors of
the respondents were captured using a structured questionnaire by oral interview.
Results: The overall prevalence for LF was 84 (41.8%). Furthermore, LF prevalence
was significant (P < 0.05) in all the studied communities: 61.5% in Umuogbuagu,
48.1% in Aguibege, 32.7% in Umuagama and 21.7% in Umuopu. The sexrelated
prevalence of LF was higher among females than males, with slight significant
difference (P = 0.046). In relation to age and occupation, higher prevalences
(P < 0.0001) were recorded among older (≥ 50 years) subjects (49, 61.2%) and
traders (55, 57.9%) respectively. The risk associated with LF implicated lack of
knowledge, non-use of mosquito nets, as well as visit and proximity to water bodies
as major predispositions (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: The prevalence of LF in this study was high. Higher prevalence was
among females, older people and traders. Notable risks to the disease outcome are
environmental, attitudinal and occupational with chances of scaled up prevalence
and burden overtime
Keywords :
Lymphatic Filariasis , Nigeria , Knowledge , Epidemiology , Wuchereria bancrofti
