Effects Of Parasitic Infections on School Achievement of Primary School Children

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) are amongst the most common infections
worldwide. Adverse health consequences combine to impair childhood educational performance,
reduce school attendance and subsequent productivity.
Aim of the study: To determine the effect of parasitic infections on school achievement of primary
school children in Al Qurain district, Sharkia Governorate.
Subject and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study was conducted on 320 primary school
children. Participants’ data regarding Past history of parasitic infection, Effect on school
achievement, questions were collected via semi-structured questionnaire. Also stool samples
collected from the students and examined for the presence of parasites.
Results: There was highly statistical significance association between educational performance score
and parasitic infection where poor performance was more associated with the presence of infection.
Conclusions: Results of the current study revealed that there was highly statistical significance
association between educational performance score and parasitic infection. We should increase
awareness about parasitic infectious diseases through health education of the children and their
mothers about methods of prevention, healthy habits and good personal hygiene.