Geospatial distribution of intestinal parasitic infections in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and its association with social determinants

Intestinal parasitic infections are highly prevalent and strongly linked to socioeconomic status in Rio de Janeiro's metropolitan area, with younger children and males at higher risk. A study analyzing 3245 individuals found that 17.5% were infected by at least one parasite, predominantly protozoa like Endolimax nana (28.8%) and Entamoeba coli (14.8%), while helminths such as Strongyloides stercoralis (4.3%) and Schistosoma mansoni (3.3%) were less common. Multiple infections were observed in 24.8% of cases, with geospatial distribution revealing a non-random pattern influenced by material deprivation. The research used stool sample analysis combined with demographic and socioeconomic data to highlight the public health burden of these infections, particularly in socially vulnerable areas.

Faria, C. P., Zanini, G. M., Dias, G. S., da Silva, S., de Freitas, M. B., Almendra, R., Santana, P., & Sousa, M. d. C. (2017). Geospatial distribution of intestinal parasitic infections in Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and its association with social determinants. PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 11(3), e0005445. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0005445