The prevalence of Ascaris, hookworm, and Trichuris in patients attending a rural diarrhea treatment center in Bangladesh

The prevalence of Ascaris, hookworm and Trichuris among patients attending a diarrhea treatment center in rural Bangladesh was estimated by direct examination of a single stool smear. Between February and August 1977, stool specimens from 2,791 (61%) of the 4,555 patients attending the center were examined. One or more helminths were detected in 39% (1,094). Ascariasis was the most common helminthic infection. Four percent of infants under 1 year of age had at least 1 helminth, and the rate increased to 78% by age 4 years. The high prevalence observed in children aged 4 years or more has indicated the possible value of treatment and control measures in this high-risk group.