Effect of Deworming on Hemoglobin Concentration in Children from 2 to 15 Years from the Bengo Province, Angola

Abstract

Objectives: The most common causes of anemia are micronutrient deficiencies, but other factors may influence namely inflammation, parasitic infections and inherited disorders. One strategy to combat micronutrient deficiencies is supplementation, yet, in zones with high prevalence of Schistosomiasis or Soil Transmitted Helminthes (STH), supplementation could be not sufficient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of deworming, on hemoglobin concentration, in children from 2 to 15 years, from Bengo. Methods: A total of 429 children between 2 to 15 years were involved. Nutritional status and anemia were evaluated. Urine and feces samples were collected for diagnosis of Schistosoma haematobium and STH. Praziquantel (40 mg/Kg) and Albendazol (400 mg) were administrated. All parameters were determined at baseline and after 6 months. Results: The prevalence at baseline of S. hematobium was 61,9%, Trichuris trichuria 15,3%, Ascaris lumbricoides 11,8 %, Hymenolepis nana 7,8%, and hookworm 3,8%. Anemia was detected in 71,2% of the children (mild 11,7%, moderate 57,1% and severe 2,3%). Average hemoglobin concentration was 106,8 g/L. 6 months after treatment the prevalence of S. hematobium decreased to 44,5%, Trichuris trichuria to 10,9%, Ascaris lumbricoides to 5,0 %, Hymenolepis nana to 6,7%, and hookworm to 0,8%.The average hemoglobin concentration increased by 7,9 g/L and the prevalence of anemia declined to 49,5% (mild 17,1%, moderate 32,2% and severe 0,2%). Conclusions: These results confirm the benefit of deworming on hemoglobin concentration, even with a single intervention. However it should be clear that integrated intervention aiming nutritional education water treatment, hygiene and sanitation are needed to reduce micronutrient deficiency.