اپیدمیولوژی آسکاریازیس و تعیین شدت آلودگی آن در شهر همدان در سال 1380

Ascaris lumbricoides is the most common intestinal parasite in the world. Various studies has indicated the high prevalence of this parasite in Iran, specially in the west parts of Iran. The epidemiological study of intestinal parasitic infection is prerequisite for planning of control programs. The Hamadan province is one of the most tourist attraction regions of Iran and providing a safe environment for travelers is the main aim of regional authorities. A mass chemotherapy for Ascariasis performed in rural areas of    Hamadan province for a five years period but, no any intervention was done for control of this parasite in the Hamadan city. Therefore, an epidemiological study of Ascariasis in this town was necessary.           A cross sectional study carried out by cluster random sampling in Hamadan and 580 stool specimens collected from different parts of city. The stools were examined by formalin ether concentration technique for ova and parasites and intensity of infection was determined by quantitative modified Stoll method.           Mean infection rate of Ascariasis was 19.5%. The Farhangian suburb (northern part) had higher infection rate than other parts(28.5%) and central parts of city showed lower infection rate(12.7%). The highest infection rate were found in the 31-40 years age group (33.8%) and in the females(23.9%).In view of intensity, 59.3% of infections were moderate and 48.3% had low intensity. No any high intensity were found. Mean egg per    gram(epg) were 7129 and 48.7% of eggs were infertile.           This study indicated that , prevalence of Ascaris in Hamadan city is considerable at present and a suitable intervention, like health education and selective chemotherapy is necessary to decrease the infection.