PREVALENCE OF SCHISTOSOMIASIS IN LEYTE PROVINCE: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

ABSTRACT Background: Schistosomiasis has been endemic in the province of Leyte for decades. Various strategies and interventions have been implemented to control its spread. Collecting recent data of the disease prevalence is significant to determine the impact of the schistosomiasis health program in the province. Objective: To determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis cases in Leyte province. Methods: A descriptive design was employed in this study. Stool samples were collected for diagnosing Schistosoma japonicum and determining its prevalence rate. These samples were from 10,600 residents aged 1 year old and above who were living in 24 municipalities and 2 cities endemic of the disease. Results: The overall prevalence rate of schistosomiasis in endemic areas within the province of Leyte was 4.22%. This indicates moderate level of endemicity. Prevalence rate per municipality or city was variable. Conclusions: Schistosomiasis remains endemic in the province of Leyte. A moderate prevalence rate in the province requires a continued and improved implementation in the control and treatment of the disease. This study further signifies that Kato-Katz stool examination has been successful as a diagnostic tool in determining the cases in the locality.