Magnitude and Determinants of Intestinal Parasites among Children under Five in Ethiopia During 2010-2023: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background

Intestinal parasitic infection (IPI) poses a serious public health threat across the globe, particularly in children in low- and middle-income countries like Ethiopia. This study was to provide pooled estimates for the individually available data on IPI and its predictors among children under five in Ethiopia.

Methods

Cochrane's Q, I2, sensitivity analysis, funnel plot, Begg's, and Egger's regression tests were used to check heterogeneity and publication bias. A random-effects model was used to calculate the pooled burden of IPI among children under five.

Results

The pooled prevalence of IPI among children under five was 28.27% (95% CI = 20.52-36.03%). Of these, single and mixed infections contribute to 28.02% and 0.25%. Intestinal parasites were significantly associated with eating raw fruits and vegetables [AO = 3.21, 95% CI = 1.11, 5.31].

Conclusion

Under the present scenario, the IPI ranges from 17.78 to 40.05%, and the IPI is higher in community-based studies of children under five.