Frequência de parasitos intestinais em crianças em idade pré-escolar de um Centro de Ensino Infantil do Município de Natal - RN

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the frequency of intestinal parasites in preschool children at a kindergarten in Natal-RN and relate it to the socio-environmental factors involved. For this, 66 children were evaluated, who, with parental authorization, provided socioeconomic data, biological samples of feces, the subungual and perianal region. In addition, soil samples were also collected in the kindergarten. The samples were processed using the HPJ, Rugai, Willis, Graham and Ritche methods and the results were sent to those responsible. Linked to this, a health education action was carried out with kindergarten teachers to assess their prior knowledge about intestinal parasites and present the most common ones, especially those that affect children. The study population was made up of 53% females and 47% males, with ages ranging from one to six years. The majority (65%) were referred to as white, while 35% as black. Parasites were identified in 49% of biological samples, with 56% of individuals being monoparasitized and 44% being polyparasitized. The most common parasites were Ascaris lumbricoides (23%), Entamoeba coli (17%) and Hookworms (15%). No biological forms were identified in subungual contents and soil analyses. The frequency of parasites was related to socioeconomic and biological factors, with individuals living in the North Zone of the city and with low income being those with the highest frequency (58% and 55%, respectively). The kindergarten teachers knew, at most, three parasites, but did not understand their biological cycles, forms of transmission and prevention. At the end of the activities, they became aware of between six and seven parasites, especially those most common in children. It was concluded that health educational actions carried out with teachers can contribute to knowledge of preventive measures and control of intestinal parasites; that the frequency of parasites in preschoolers is a problem in Natal and that socially vulnerable individuals are more affected, especially those residing in the North zone, with low income and without basic sanitation. Control and prevention actions are necessary for this scenario to change.