Enteric pathogen infection and consequences for child growth in young Aboriginal Australian children: a cross-sectional study
Abstract
Background To determine the prevalence of enteric infections in Aboriginal children aged 0–2 years using conventional and molecular diagnostic techniques and to explore associations between the presence of pathogens and child growth. Methods Cross-sectional analysis of Aboriginal children ( n = 62) residing in a remote community in Northern Australia, conducted from July 24th - October 30th 2017. Stool samples were analysed for organisms by microscopy (directly in the field and following fixation and storage in sodium-acetate formalin), and by qualitative PCR for viruses, bacteria and parasites and serology for Strongyloides -specific IgG. Child growth (height and weight) was measured and z scores calculated according to WHO growth standards. Results Nearly 60% of children had evidence for at least one enteric pathogen in their stool (37/62). The highest burden of infection was with adenovirus/sapovirus (22.9%), followed by astrovirus (9.8%) and Cryptosporidium hominis/parvum (8.2%). Non-pathogenic organisms were detected in 22.5% of children. Ten percent of children had diarrhea at the time of stool collection. Infection with two or more pathogens was negatively associated with height for age z scores (− 1.34, 95% CI − 2.61 to − 0.07), as was carriage of the non-pathogen Blastocystis hominis (− 2.05, 95% CI - 3.55 to − 0.54). Conclusions Infants and toddlers living in this remote Northern Australian Aboriginal community had a high burden of enteric pathogens and…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 62 participants or records.
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