Geophagy as a risk factor for Soil-transmitted helminthic infections among pregnant women attending antenatal care at health institutions in Chiro Town, Eastern Ethiopia
This study highlights the high prevalence of STH infections among pregnant women and identifies geophagy as a potential risk factor, though reliance on a single stool sample and a less sensitive diagnostic method may have underestimated the true prevalence. To reduce the risk of these infections, it is crucial to promote awareness of the importance of regular handwashing, avoiding the consumption of raw vegetables, and refraining from the practice of geophagy.
Authors
- Mio Ayana
- Mestawet Getachew (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7029-8813)
- Zeleke Mekonnen (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3418-7291)
- Abel Mesfin
Institutions
- Jimma University (ET)
- Oromiyaa Regional Health Bureau (ET)
Publication Details
- Journal
- BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth
- Published
- 2025-11-28
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-08311-7
- Primary Topic
- Therapeutic Uses of Natural Elements
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00
Funders
- Jimma University