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Malaria and diseases caused by soil-transmitted helminths (STH) were found to occur simultaneously in multiple cases in Nigeria, particularly in the south-south and southeast regions, according to a new report.
In contrast, the northwest region showed lower co-morbidity of the two diseases, despite higher malaria prevalence. This co-occurrence underscored the compounded health burden in the southern region of Nigeria, necessitating integrated disease management approaches that encompass community education on hygiene practices and regular health screenings for both diseases.
The study published in the journal Infectious Diseases of Poverty April 2, 2025 looked at the co-morbidity of malaria and STH infections, including Ascaris lumbricoides (roundworm), Ancylostoma duodenale (old world hookworm), Necator americanus (new word hookworm) and Trichuris trichiura (whipworm).
The researchers led by Faith Eshofonie, Federal University of Technology, Nigeria found notable regional disparities. They used malaria prevalence data from the Nigeria Malaria Indicators Survey (NMIS) for the years 2010 and 2015 and STH prevalence data from the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN) portal, covering the years 1978-2014.
Malaria prevalence was found to be the highest in the northwest and northcentral regions. Roundworm infections were widespread in both northern and southern states. Hookworm species were found to be causing diseases predominantly found in the southwest and whipworm, though less prevalent, was significant in specific areas.
In addition, climatic factors significantly influenced disease distribution, the authors noted.
Temperature, for instance, accelerated malaria transmission by enhancing parasite development in mosquitoes, the researchers observed, while its effect on STH was minimal, with sanitation and soil conditions playing a more prominent role.
Precipitation, on the other hand, positively correlated with both malaria and STH infections, promoting mosquito breeding and the persistence of STH eggs.
The study showed a consistent trend of higher malaria rates in the northwest and northcentral areas, in stark contrast to the lower rates found in the southern states and parts of Borno, a northeastern state.
These regional differences, they estimated, were due to underlying environmental factors like temperature and humidity, as well as variations in the effectiveness and coverage of health interventions.
The southwestern part of Nigeria might be the most affected by STHs due to its forested areas, heavy rainfall and particular climate conditions that support the survival and spread of these parasites. Enhancing water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, along with consistent deworming initiatives, can aid in lowering STH infections.
The results highlighted the necessity for climate-aware strategies in disease management. The authors emphasised that combined efforts to tackle malaria and STH infection are crucial, especially given the persistent issues brought about by climate change.
They called for a collaborative effort that combines health initiatives with environmental considerations for fostering sustainable health improvements said the researchers and highlighted the need for tailored public health interventions.
