Research Article

Relationship Between the Prevalence of Intestinal Worms Among Butchers’ And Their Clinical Characteristics

Abstract

The meat industry in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, employs numerous butchers working in abattoirs, facing occupational hazards such as worm infections. This study aimed to investigate the relation between the prevalence of intestinal worms among butchers’ and their clinical characteristics and recognize the multifaceted nature of this public health concern. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 356 butchers in major abattoirs in Port Harcourt metropolis between July to September 2023. The study’s target group consisted of butchers who worked in any of the approved abattoirs in the Port Harcourt metropolitan area and who were at least eighteen years old. However, those who had received anti-helminthic treatment three months before the study and butchers who had not worked at the abattoir for at least six months were not included. A multi-stage sampling was used, and primary data were obtained from measurements, interviews, structured surveys, observations, and samples. Stool samples were collected and analyzed using the formal ether concentration technique. Chi-Square tests were employed to assess associations, with p-values ≤ 0.05 considered significant. The results revealed a low prevalence of 5.6% and no significant association (p > 0.05) between clinical characteristics and the prevalence of intestinal worms among butchers. Recommendations include implementing comprehensive health education programs targeting butchers to improve awareness of intestinal worm infections and promote proper hygiene practices. In conclusion, while the prevalence of intestinal worms among butchers in Port Harcourt metropolis was low, their clinical characteristics showed no significant association with the prevalence, emphasizing the complex nature of this public health issue.