PREVALENCE OF AMOEBIASIS IN CHILDREN AGED 1 TO 5 YEARS AT BAYAZID ROKHAN TEACHING HOSPITAL, KABUL, AFGHANISTAN: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Entamoeba histolytica, a protozoan parasite, is the third leading cause of human mortality and morbidity globally, following malaria and schistosomiasis. This study aimed to assess the incidence of Entamoeba spp. in the pediatric department of Bayazid Rokhan Teaching Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan, in 2024. A total of 230 patients suspected of having amoebiasis were examined. Methodology: This descriptive study, conducted as a case series, involved the diagnosis of amoebiasis based on clinical signs and symptoms. The definitive diagnosis was established using the criteria set by the World Health Organization and relevant global medical literature. Results: The findings revealed that amoebiasis is most prevalent in children aged 1-5 years. Among the 40 confirmed cases, 56% were male and 44% were female. The disease is rare in children under one year of age. Geographically, most cases were reported from urban areas, likely due to better access to healthcare facilities, while patients from surrounding rural provinces were underrepresented due to issues such as transportation barriers, lack of awareness, and neglect of health needs. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of improving living conditions, providing access to clean water, and promoting health education to reduce the prevalence of amoebiasis in the population. Efforts to enhance public health awareness and infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, are crucial to mitigating the spread of this disease.