Ascariasis: An Important Soil Transmitted Helminthiasis of Public Health Significance

Abstract

Ascariasis, caused by the helminth Ascaris lumbricoides, remains one of the most widespread soil-transmitted helminth infections globally, predominantly affecting impoverished communities in tropical and subtropical regions.This review synthesizes current knowledge on the epidemiology, life cycle, environmental resilience, and public health implications of Ascaris lumbricoides.It highlights the critical role of inadequate sanitation, poor hygiene practices, and environmental contamination in sustaining transmission cycles.Advances in diagnostic tools, including molecular methods, have improved detection accuracy, yet challenges such as potential anthelmintic resistance underscore the need for integrated control strategies.Sustainable management requires a multifaceted approach combining with mass drug administration (MDA), improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health education, and environmental interventions, respectively.Cross-sectoral collaboration and innovative monitoring are vital for effective control, aiming toward the global goal of eliminating ascariasis as a public health problem by 2030.Addressing these challenges through coordinated efforts will significantly reduce disease burden and improve quality of life in vulnerable populations.