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USAID's NTD Program
USAID's NTD Program

Hookworm

Human hookworm infection is a soil-transmitted helminthiasis infection caused by nematode parasites Necator americanus (N. americanus), Ancylostoma duodenale (A. duodenale), or both. Mild infections with hookworm cause mild diarrhea and abdominal pain. More severe infections with hookworm can create serious health problems for newborns, children, pregnant women, and persons who are malnourished. Hookworm infection is the leading cause of anemia and protein malnutrition in developing nations, afflicting an estimated 740 million people.1-3

 

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References

  1. World Health Organization: Prevention and control of schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis. Report of a WHO expert committee, WHO Technical Report Series 912. Geneva, World Health Organization, 2002.
  2. De Silva N, Brooker S, Hotez P, et al: Soil-transmitted helminth infections: Updating the global picture. Trends Parasitol. 19:547-551, 2003.
  3. Mabaso MLH, Appleton CC, Hughes JC, et al: The effect of soil type and climate on hookworm (Necator americanus) distribution in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. Trop Med Int Health. 8:722-727, 2003.