CURRENT STATUS AND RISK FACTORS FOR SOIL-TRANSMITTED HELMINTHIASIS AMONG SOME ADOLESCENTS IN AGULU, ANAMBRA STATE.

Soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) remains a major public health issue in developing countries, particularly Nigeria. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and risk factors of STH among adolescents, a group often overlooked in interventions that primarily target school-aged children, leading to reinfection. Conducted in July 2024, this cross-sectional study collected fresh stool samples from 178 students, analyzed using the Kato-Katz technique. Pre-tested questionnaires via Kobo Toolbox gathered data on potential risk factors. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing cross-tabulation, Chi-square, T-tests, and significance tests.Among the participants, 107 (60.11%) were females and 71 (39.89%) males, with an overall STH prevalence of 39.89% (71/178). Infection rates differed significantly by gender: 49.90% of males tested positive compared to 33.64% of females. Ascaris lumbricoides was the most prevalent helminth, infecting 23.36% of males and 35.21% of females (P < 0.05). The 10–12 years age group showed the highest infection rate at 55.56%. Co-infections were common, particularly A. lumbricoides combined with hookworm (3.74%).Significant factors associated with infection included the students’ knowledge of STH, sources of infection, and treatment history (P < 0.05). These results highlight the need to revise current treatment strategies and emphasize including adolescents in Mass Administration of Medicines (MAMs) programs in Anambra State. By extending interventions beyond primary school children to adolescents, who can act as reservoirs for infection, efforts to control and eventually eliminate STH will be more effective. Ignoring this vulnerable group risks sustained transmission and undermines public health goals.