Exploring global trends in human toxoplasmosis seroprevalence by meta-analysis
Abstract
Understanding the global prevalence of infectious diseases is essential for effective public health strategies and resource allocation. Among foodborne diseases, toxoplasmosis-caused by Toxoplasma gondii-poses significant health risks, particularly for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. This study presents one of the most comprehensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses to date, synthesizing global seroprevalence estimates of human toxoplasmosis from 320 studies, covering 658,172 individuals across 113 countries and six continents, spanning the period from 1959 to 2020. A thorough literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, applying rigorous inclusion criteria to ensure methodological consistency. The pooled global seroprevalence was estimated at 31 % (95 % CI: 28-34 %), with marked heterogeneity between studies (I2 = 99.6 %). The highest prevalence was observed in Australia (54 %), South America (45 %), and Africa (42 %), while Asia reported the lowest (25 %). Country-wise, Brazil and Ghana had the highest prevalence (68 %), whereas Vietnam had the lowest (5 %). Temporal analysis revealed an upward trend, reaching 34 % during 2011-2020. Diagnostic methods significantly influenced prevalence estimates, with IFAT yielding the highest rate (41 %). Extensive subgroup analyses by region, time period, country, and diagnostic technique provided granular insights into seroprevalence patterns. While…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 658,172 participants or records.
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