Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Hookworm Infection in Dutsin‑Ma Town, Katsina State, Nigeria

Abstract

Hookworm infection remains a significant public health concern in many developing countries, particularly among school-aged children. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated risk factors of hookworm infection among school children in Dutsin-Ma town, Katsina State, Nigeria. A total of 332 stool samples were collected from children attending both public and private schools. The samples were examined using the formalin-ether method followed by microscopic identification of hookworm ova. The overall prevalence of hookworm infection was 35.5% (118/332). Prevalence was higher in males (38.8%) compared to females (30.5%), it suggests a possible gender-based variation. Similarly, prevalence appeared to increase with age, but these trends were not statistically significant (p= 0.976). In Odds ratio, among the various factors assessed, handwashing before eating had a statistically significant protective effect against hookworm infection (OR = 0.342, p = 0.030), indicating the relevance of hygiene practice. On the other hand, playing barefoot was associated with higher odds of infection (OR = 1.832, p = 0.080), although the result was not statistically significant. The findings emphasize the moderate prevalence of hookworm infection among school children in the study area and suggest that age and hygiene behaviors may influence infection risk. These results highlight the need for integrated control strategies, including regular deworming, health education, and improved hygiene and sanitation in schools.