The impact of malaria and intestinal helminths on haemoglobin concentrations among armed forces of the North West and South West Cameroon

Malaria and soil-transmitted helminths (STHs) infections continue to be public health burden in Cameroon. This study investigates the prevalence, severity and impact of Malaria and soil-transmitted helminth infections on haemoglobin levels among armed forces in the North West and South West Regions of Cameroon. This cross-sectional study enrolled 812 male participants in the military camps of the North West and South West regions of Cameroon. Questionnaire survey was used to document participants demographic and clinical data. Venous blood was collected and used for testing malaria parasitaemia by microscopy as well as measurement of haemoglobin (Hb) levels using an Hb metre. Also, the direct smear method and Kato-Katz technique were used to detect intestinal parasites amongst the participants. The study identified two Plasmodium species, Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax, with an overall prevalence of 13.6%. Equally, Loa loa microfilaria was identified during the study with a prevalence of 0.2% (2/812). Five intestinal helminthic species were also identified, including Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, hookworms, Schistosoma mansoni, and Schistosoma intercalatum. Two intestinal protozoan species, Entamoebacoli and Entamoeba histolytica were recorded. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 22.8%. Plasmodium falciparum was the most prevalent parasite with 86.6% of infected participants having mild malaria. The parasitic density was significant across age groups. Malaria parasites, Trichuris trichiura and Schistosoma mansoni significantly affected the mean Hb concentration level. Malaria and intestinal helminths remain public health issues in Cameroon, affecting haemoglobin levels. Asymptomatic malaria and intestinal helminthic carriers are transmission agents, necessitating government consideration to eradicate or limit transmission rates.