The Interaction of Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infections, Geophagy, and Pregnancy Outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58445/rars.1537Keywords:
Public Health, Soil-transmitted helminth infections, Parasite, Worms, HygieneAbstract
This project aims to identify the interactions between soil-transmitted helminth infections (STH), geophagy, and pregnancy outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa. STH infections, a type of neglected tropical disease, affect billions worldwide. Transmitted through contaminated soil or water, STH disproportionately impacts poor communities with limited sanitation and lack of clean resources, especially low and middle-income areas around Sub-Saharan Africa. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, especially those practicing geophagy to protect against toxins, access micronutrients, and combat hunger. This research highlights the need for further investigation into the relationship between STH infections, geophagy, and pregnancy outcomes. It also emphasizes the importance of developing culturally sensitive interventions to improve maternal and fetal health in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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