PREVALENCE OF AMOEBIASIS IN ZONE-A AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT OF BENUE STATE NIGERIA

Ali C. O.*, Amuta, E. U., Onekutu A., Ikpa T. F. and Iboyi M. O.

ABSTRACT

Amoebiasis is a life-threatening and high prevalent infection in developing countries. A prevalence study was undertaken in the Zone A Agricultural District of Benue State. A total of 290 stool samples were collected and screened among consented persons using standard microscopic techniques. Demographic data collected include locations, gender and age. Data analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. The Zone recorded 82 infected cases out of a total of 290 subjects screened, resulting in total prevalence of 28.3%. As a result, the area could be described as an endemic region of amoebiasis. There was no significant association between infection and the locations in Zone A (χ2 =2.29, P>0.05). The study recorded high number of infected males 24 (20.3%) and females 58 (33.7%) but the difference was not significant (P>0.05). Age group 11-20 years and 21-30 years recorded the higher prevalence of 38.2% and 35.7% respectively than other groups. Amoebiasis was not significantly associated with gender and age group (P>0.050) in study area. Therefore, both male and females as well as all age groups are equally vulnerable to amoebiasis thus suggesting the possibilities of other predisposing factors in the Zone. The data presented in this report is important in the control of amoebiasis in the communities under the Zone A Agricultural District of Benue State, Nigeria.

Keywords: Zone A, Amoebiasis, Prevalence, Demographic data, Control.