Distribution of hookworm infection in Cameroon.
Prevalence of hookworm infection was measured in Cameroon during a national survey carried out for a schistosomiasis research project. The survey provided a representative sample of the 10-19 year age group for each one of the 49 administrative divisions. Prevalences were low in the Extreme North province with a sahelian climate. Prevalences were high in the provinces with an equatorial climate except for the Centre province which is more developed. Regions with tropical Cameroonian climate, which receive a very heavy rainfall, showed the highest prevalences. Urbanized areas had lower infection rates than rural areas. It should not be assumed that hookworm prevalence is uniformly high throughout a tropical country. Since hookworm distribution shows wide variations, large control programmes should start with a thorough evaluation of the situation.
Ratard
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RC
Department of Tropical Medicine, Tulane School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Metairie, LA 70003.
Kouemeni
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LE
Ekani Bessala
M K
MK
Ndamkou
C N
CN
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002163:Cameroon / Q000453:epidemiology; D002648:Child; D002980:Climate; D005243:Feces / Q000469:parasitology; D006725:Hookworm Infections / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D015995:Prevalence