Assessing the relationship between intestinal protozoal infection and nutritional status among children under 5 years of age

Intestinal protozoan infections are common, particularly among children under 5 years, who are more vulnerable due to their developing immune systems. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the relationship between protozoal infections and nutritional status in 260 children under 5 years, conducted from 1/9/2024 to 1/2/2025. Parasitological diagnosis was done using direct microscopy (saline and iodine wet mounts) and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining for coccidian parasites. Body mass index (BMI) was evaluated based on WHO standards to compare infected and non-infected groups. Entamoeba histolytica was the most prevalent protozoan, with a 56.25% infection rate. Underweight status was notably common among children aged 4–5 years. Findings indicated a strong association between protozoal infection and malnutrition, likely resulting from nutrient malabsorption, chronic diarrhea, and reduced appetite due to infection.