Characteristics and geographical profile of strongyloidiasis in healthcare area 11 of the Valencian community (Spain).
BACKGROUND
This study describes the epidemiological characteristics of all cases of strongyloidiasis diagnosed in the period 1995-1999 (both years included) in Area 11 of the Valencian Community (Spain) and their possible correlation to certain geographical and environmental conditions.


METHODS
This is a retrospective, descriptive study. Information was collected using a telephone survey.


RESULTS
A total of 473 cases of strongyloidiasis were diagnosed. Of the total patients, 282 (60%) answered to the survey. There were 342 males (72%) and 131 females (28%). Ninety-four percent of the patients were in the 51-91 years age interval. Only three patients had been born abroad, while 15 had been on brief holidays to countries where the disease is endemic. The largest concentration of cases was found in zones 1 (0.49%) and 6 (0.9%), both having similar geomorphic characteristics. The professional activity of patients was recorded in 215 cases. The most frequent occupation was agriculture, with 124 cases (58%). Risk activities were recorded in 184 cases, the growing of rice in 145 patients (79%) being the most important.


CONCLUSIONS
Strongyloides stercoralis infestation is endemic and possibly related to agricultural activities performed in previous years, and to the geographical characteristics of some parts of the area.
Alcaraz
Carles Oltra
CO
Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, 'Verge dels Lliris' Hospital, Alcoi, Spain.
Adell
Rafael Igual
RI
Sánchez
Pilar Sánchez
PS
Blasco
Maria José Viñals
MJ
Sánchez
Oscar Andreu
OA
Auñón
Antonio Sarrión
AS
Calabuig
David Rodríguez
DR
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000382:Agricultural Workers' Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D013030:Spain / Q000453:epidemiology; D017171:Strongyloides stercoralis; D013322:Strongyloidiasis / Q000453:epidemiology*