Prevalence and risk factors of parasitic diseases among Saudi children

Intestinal parasite infection (IPI) is a declining global health problem. However, in certain parts of the world, the misconception that certain diseases are avoided owing to the existence of prevention strategies, medication and the frequency of awareness campaigns remains underestimated. Recent studies in Saudi Arabia have reported high prevalence rates for IPI; however, the prevalence in Saudi Arabia varies from city to city and from age group to age group. Moreover, the most prevalent causative species vary in different areas of Saudi Arabia due to differences in the characteristics of emerging populations. The prevalence of IPI has also been correlated with multiple risk factors, such as age, gender, health awareness, health habits and socioeconomic status. Therefore, more attention should be given to IPIs in Saudi Arabia and the risk factors should be better addressed to monitor and reduce the spread of parasite infections, particularly among younger children.