Factors associated with the prevalence of intestinal soil-transmitted helminth infections among children under 10 years attending Kabanga Health Centre III in Mukono district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background Intestinal soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections continue to pose a major public health challenge among children under 10 years in resource-limited settings. This study examined the prevalence and related socio-demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors affecting STH infections among children attending Kabanga Health Centre III in Mukono District, Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional study of 257 children under 10 collected data via questionnaires, observations, and lab records. Variables included age, sex, parental education, water, sanitation, and hygiene practices. Prevalence was calculated and findings interpreted through descriptive and comparative analyses. Results The overall STH infection prevalence was 25.7%, highest among children 4–7 years (32.1%) and males (33%). Children of uneducated parents had the highest burden (66.7%), showing a strong link between parental education and child health. Socioeconomic activities like farming and fishing increased exposure. Water and hygiene practices were poor: only 26% boiled water, 74% treated water inconsistently, and 81% lacked soap. Sanitation was poor, with 27% practicing open defecation and only 23% using improved latrines. Food hygiene was inadequate: 38% ate unwashed raw fruits or salads, increasing exposure risks. Conclusion STH infections in Kabanga are moderately common, with risk factors deeply tied to social and economic disparities, poor hygiene infrastructure, and behavioral habits. Despite deworming programs, reinfection remains frequent due to ongoing environmental exposure and lack of sanitation. Tackling these issues through combined WASH initiatives, health education, and policy changes is essential for effective STH control. Recommendations Multisectoral approaches are essential to improve latrine access, promote safe water treatment, and establish handwashing facilities with soap. Community awareness and regular deworming every six months should be reinforced. At the policy level, WASH components must be integrated into school and health center-based deworming programs, with ongoing monitoring of sanitation coverage at the sub-county level.