Overview Of Soil Transmitted Helminths Eggs Which Were Raised At The Examination Of The Finger Nails Of The Children Of SDN 105269, Sei Bean Sekata Village, Sunggal District, Deli Serdang Regency.

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Overview of Soil Transmitted Helminths Eggs on Examination of the Finger Nails of Children of SDN 105269, Sei Beras Sekata Village, Sunggal District, Deli Serdang Regency

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Additional Information:

Background

Soil Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections are a significant health problem, particularly in developing countries. These infections are caused by various types of worms, including Ascaris lumbricoides (bracket worms), Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworms), and Trichuris trichiura (whipworms). The transmission of STH occurs through eggs found in human waste, which contaminate the soil, especially in areas with poor sanitation. This is a pressing concern, as it not only affects health but also impacts the growth and development of children.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 1.5 billion people worldwide are infected with STH, with the majority being children. In Indonesia, where this study was conducted, STH infections are a significant public health concern, particularly in rural areas where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. The consequences of STH infections can be severe, including malnutrition, anemia, and impaired cognitive development.

Research Purposes

This study aims to determine the prevalence of Soil Transmitted Helminths eggs found on the finger nails of children in SDN 105269, Sei Beras Sekata Village, Sunggal District, Deli Serdang Regency. Through this study, it is expected to provide information about the risk of STH infection among students and identify potential risk factors.

Research Methods

The research method used in this study is an observational descriptive with a cross-sectional design. Primary data was collected from 71 students through interviews using interview guidelines that had been prepared. In addition, a sampling of students' finger nails was also taken for further examination at SDN 105269.

Research Results

The results of the study showed that there were no Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) eggs found on the finger nails of students in SDN 105269. Although there were no STH eggs on the nails, there were other interesting findings: from this study, it was known that there were STH eggs found in the feces of 3 students.

Furthermore, the analysis of the nutritional status of students revealed that as many as 12 students (16.9%) experienced stunting, which showed that even though there was no worm infection in the nails, other challenges to child health remain. In addition, from the interviews conducted, it appears that the personal hygiene of students is still in the unfavorable category; 41 people (57.7%) students show poor personal hygiene, while only 30 people (42.3%) have a good level of cleanliness.

Conclusion

From the results of this study, it can be concluded that the nutritional status of students in SDN 105269 is still in the poor category and there are indications of stunting in some students. Although no Eggs are found on the finger nails, the findings of the STH egg in the stool show that environmental cleanliness and sanitation are still important to note. Increasing personal hygiene among students is also a focal point that must be addressed so that the risk of STH infection and other health problems can be minimized.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

  1. Improving Sanitation and Hygiene: The school and local authorities should work together to improve sanitation and hygiene facilities in the school and surrounding areas.
  2. Health Education: Health education programs should be implemented to raise awareness about the risks of STH infections and the importance of personal hygiene.
  3. Nutritional Support: Nutritional support should be provided to students who are experiencing stunting and malnutrition.
  4. Regular Health Check-ups: Regular health check-ups should be conducted to monitor the health status of students and identify potential health problems early.

By implementing these recommendations, it is hoped that the risk of STH infections and other health problems can be minimized, and the health and well-being of students in SDN 105269 can be improved.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

  1. Small Sample Size: The sample size of this study is relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
  2. Cross-sectional Design: The cross-sectional design of this study may not capture the temporal relationships between variables.
  3. Limited Data Collection: The data collection methods used in this study may not have captured all relevant information.

Future Research Directions

Future research should aim to:

  1. Investigate the Temporal Relationships: Investigate the temporal relationships between STH infections and other health problems.
  2. Examine the Effectiveness of Interventions: Examine the effectiveness of interventions aimed at reducing the risk of STH infections and other health problems.
  3. Conduct a Larger Study: Conduct a larger study to increase the generalizability of the findings.

By addressing these limitations and future research directions, it is hoped that a more comprehensive understanding of STH infections and their impact on child health can be gained.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) Infections

Q: What are Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) infections?

A: STH infections are a type of parasitic infection caused by various types of worms, including Ascaris lumbricoides (bracket worms), Necator americanus and Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworms), and Trichuris trichiura (whipworms). These infections are transmitted through eggs found in human waste, which contaminate the soil, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

Q: How common are STH infections?

A: STH infections are a significant public health concern, particularly in developing countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.5 billion people worldwide are infected with STH, with the majority being children.

Q: What are the symptoms of STH infections?

A: The symptoms of STH infections can vary depending on the type of worm and the severity of the infection. Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain and discomfort
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Weight loss and malnutrition
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Anemia and iron deficiency
  • Skin rashes and itching

Q: How are STH infections diagnosed?

A: STH infections are typically diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, laboratory tests, and stool examination. Laboratory tests may include:

  • Stool examination for eggs or larvae
  • Blood tests to detect anemia or iron deficiency
  • Urine tests to detect protein or blood in the urine

Q: How are STH infections treated?

A: STH infections are typically treated with anthelmintic medications, which are available over-the-counter or by prescription. Treatment may also include:

  • Dietary changes to improve nutrition and prevent malnutrition
  • Hygiene practices to prevent re-infection
  • Environmental modifications to reduce exposure to contaminated soil

Q: Can STH infections be prevented?

A: Yes, STH infections can be prevented through:

  • Improved sanitation and hygiene practices
  • Regular handwashing with soap and water
  • Wearing shoes when walking in areas with contaminated soil
  • Avoiding eating undercooked or raw meat
  • Getting regular deworming treatment

Q: What are the long-term consequences of STH infections?

A: STH infections can have long-term consequences, including:

  • Malnutrition and stunted growth
  • Anemia and iron deficiency
  • Impaired cognitive development
  • Increased risk of other infections and diseases
  • Reduced productivity and economic burden

Q: How can I get involved in preventing STH infections?

A: You can get involved in preventing STH infections by:

  • Supporting organizations that work to improve sanitation and hygiene practices
  • Donating to charities that provide deworming treatment and health education
  • Spreading awareness about the risks and consequences of STH infections
  • Encouraging your community to adopt good hygiene practices

Q: What are the most effective ways to prevent STH infections?

A: The most effective ways to prevent STH infections include:

  • Improving sanitation and hygiene practices
  • Regular handwashing with soap and water
  • Wearing shoes when walking in areas with contaminated soil
  • Avoiding eating undercooked or raw meat
  • Getting regular deworming treatment

Q: Can STH infections be cured?

A: Yes, STH infections can be cured with anthelmintic medications and proper treatment. However, it is essential to follow up with regular deworming treatment to prevent re-infection.

Q: How can I get more information about STH infections?

A: You can get more information about STH infections by:

  • Visiting the World Health Organization (WHO) website
  • Contacting local health authorities or organizations that work on STH prevention
  • Reading scientific articles and research studies on STH infections
  • Attending health education workshops or seminars