Ascaris lumbricoides infection (Ascariasis) exhibits varying prevalence but similar intensity across major socio-demographic groups in Aguleri, Anambra State, Nigeria

Soil-transmitted helminths, especially Ascaris lumbricoides, have remained a significant public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities. This study assessed the prevalence and intensity of Ascariasis among residents of Aguleri in the Anambra East Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. The study employed a cross-sectional design and a community-based approach. A total of 362 participants were selected using stratified and convenient sampling methods. Stool specimens collected were examined using direct wet mount and Kato-Katz techniques. The overall prevalence of A. lumbricoides infection was 38.1 %. Males had a higher prevalence (43.7 %) than females (33.0 %) (P = 0.036). Prevalence by age was highest (49.0 %) in children <5 years and lowest (25.4 %) in participants aged 16 – 25 years (P = 0.013). By education, nursery-level participants had the highest prevalence (46.4 %), while those with secondary education had the lowest (26.0 %) (P = 0.002). Occupational variation was significant (P = 0.002), with farmers (55.9 %) the most affected and students the least (15.1 %). Infection intensity was generally light to moderate (range = 24 to 3000 EPG; mean egg count = 192.5 ± 71.1 EPG), though with no significant difference among categories of the variables investigated (P > 0.05). These research findings demonstrate that A. lumbricoides infection occurred at varying prevalences but with similar intensities among groups of infected individuals. This reflects gaps in intervention coverage and compliance. There is therefore a need for further investigation into STH control practices in the study area to ascertain which aspects of the control strategies require improvement.