Intestinal Parasitic Infections and Associated Behavioral Risk Factors in a Squatter Community in Butwal, Nepal: A Pilot Study

The relatively high prevalence of IPIs among participating residents of the Butwal slum may contribute to an increased risk of IPI transmission due to inadequate hygiene behaviors. Among the participants in this study, more than one quarter stated that they do not trim their nails every week, and approximately one-fifth indicated open defecation. Standardized health education regarding the benefits of hand and nail hygiene behaviors may contribute positively in reducing the parasitic burden and interrupting the chain of transmission in developing urban areas such as Butwal.