Prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among HIV patients receiving antiretroviral therapy at public hospitals in North Shoa Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia: Cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND: Intestinal parasite infections have a significant impact on HIV patients and are a serious global public health concern. In Ethiopia, the frequency of intestinal parasites among HIV patients is significant. The prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among HIV-positive patients in the study area is unknown. Therefore, this study aims to determine the prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated factors among HIV positive patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) at North Shoa public hospitals using direct wet mount, formol-ether concentration and modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining techniques. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HIV patients receiving ART at public hospitals in the North Shoa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, from February 2024 to May 2024. A total of 493 participants were included using systematic random sampling methods. Socio-demographic data and other associated factors were collected using a structured questionnaire. Stool specimens were collected in a clean container and examined for intestinal parasites. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with intestinal parasitic infections. RESULTS: In this study, 61.1% of participants resided in rural areas, with a mean age of 43.26 years (SD = ±12.38). The overall prevalence of intestinal parasitic infection among HIV patients in this study was 28% (95% CI: 24.1-31.8). Rural residence (AOR: 14.38; 95% CI: 5.52-37.47, P = 0.001), CD4 count <200 cells/µL (AOR: 7.08; 95% CI: 2.33-21.59, P = 0.001), and unprotected water source (AOR: 12.90; 95% CI: 3.01-55.36, P = 0.001) were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infection. CONCLUSION: Intestinal parasitic infections were common among HIV/AIDS patients in North Shoa Zone hospitals. Rural residence, low CD4+ cell counts, and unprotected water sources were significantly associated with intestinal parasitic infections. Routine stool examination for patients with low CD4 + counts and improved access to safe drinking water, particularly in rural areas, are recommended. Further longitudinal studies with a comprehensive assessment of associated factors are recommended.