Enteric parasites and associated factors in cancer patients in Nepal

Infection with intestinal parasites is widespread worldwide, especially in developing countries. Intestinal parasites are a major cause of diarrhea in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised people, but cancer patients are more prone to infection. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of intestinal parasitic infections (IPIs) among cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy at Nepal Cancer Hospital and Research Center (NCHRC) in Nepal. One hundred individuals were selected with a convenience sampling strategy. The stool samples were examined by direct wet mount, sedimentation, flotation, and acid-fast methods to determine the prevalence and intensity of IPIs in this population. The overall prevalence of IPIs was 8% (4% protozoan and 4% helminths). Altogether, three species of intestinal parasites were detected. Cryptosporidium (4%) was predominant followed by Trichuris trichiura (2%) and Ancylostoma duodenale (2%). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that “not using soap for handwashing” was significantly associated with the prevalence of overall IPIs. None of the other evaluated risk factors indicated an association with IPIs infection. In this study, the IPIs were attributable to individual hygiene behaviors, but not to nutritional status or socio-demographic characteristics. Yet, significant numbers of males reported anemia and undernutrition in this study population.