Incidencia de la parasitosis intestinal y su relación con el estado nutricional en niños escolares, en zona urbano marginal -2025

Abstract

The present research aimed to determine the incidence of intestinal parasitosis and its relationship with the nutritional status of schoolchildren in the urban-marginal area of “Los Vergeles” during the months of April to July 2025. Methodology a cross-sectional, correlational, and observational study with a mixed approach was conducted. The population consisted of 50 schoolchildren from the “Enriqueta de Wind de Laniado” Educational Unit. For data collection, structured surveys were applied to the children's guardians, coproparasitological analysis was carried out through direct fresh observation using saline solution, and anthropometric evaluations were conducted, including measurements of weight and height. The data obtained were recorded on technical data sheets and processed using the statistical software Jamovi, complemented by Microsoft Excel. Body Mass Index (BMI) and Waist-to-Height Ratio (WHtR) were calculated to determine nutritional status. Results the findings showed that 52% of the children were underweight, 34% had a healthy weight, and 14% were obese. Regarding the presence of intestinal parasites, 68% tested positive, with Entamoeba histolytica (26%), Giardia lamblia (16%), and Enterobius vermicularis (10%) being the most prevalent. The chi-square test revealed a statistically significant association between parasitosis and underweight (p = 0.044). Conclusion the presence of intestinal parasites negatively affects children's nutritional status, reinforcing the need to implement deworming campaigns, health monitoring, and nutritional education within school institutions.