Intestinal Parasites - New Developments in Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Future Directions

Book excerpt: Intestinal parasites have been one of the leading infections since prehistoric times, threatening human life and reducing its quality. In the second half of the last century, developed countries began to neglect the fight against intestinal parasites, believing the risks were almost eliminated. However, intestinal parasites have remained a persistent problem for centuries, particularly in rural areas of the rest of the world. Today, a quarter of all infectious diseases are still caused by parasitic protozoa and helminths. In the modern world, which associates intestinal parasites with underdeveloped countries, immunocompromised populations pose a significant risk. Intestinal parasites continue to contribute to the global disease burden. In different parts of the world, Helminths such as Ascaris, Enterobius, hookworms, and tapeworms, as well as protozoan parasites like Entamoeba, Cyclospora, Giardia, Cryptosporidium, and Blastocystis, are a significant threat, especially to children. They place a major burden on poor populations, leading to both morbidity and mortality. A holistic approach is needed to control intestinal parasites, which remain a global threat. To establish a global and sustainable control strategy, efforts must be carried out in multiple areas simultaneously. In this book, intestinal parasites are examined from past to present, providing a comprehensive understanding of their impact and control.