Investigating the Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites in Leafy Vegetables from Key Markets in Buea Health District, South West Cameroon

Abstract

Background: Leafy vegetables are a global source of nutrition, but they can also carry a public health threat when infected with intestinal parasites. This is especially worrisome in the Buea Health District of South West Cameroon, where farming methods and environmental factors may increase the risk of infection. This study fills the gap in local research on parasitic infection in this region. Objective: To examine the occurrence of intestinal parasites in leafy vegetables sold in major markets of the Buea Health District, revealing regional patterns of contamination and factors that affect them. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional survey sampled vegetables from five main markets in the Buea Health District. Standard parasitological techniques were used to analyze 75 vegetable samples. The study used stratified random sampling to account for different vegetable types. Results: The vegetable samples had an intestinal parasite prevalence of 2.7%. The parasites were distributed differently among various vegetable types and market locations, showing the impact of certain environmental and agricultural factors. Conclusion: The study found a fairly low occurrence of intestinal parasites in the vegetables sampled, indicating that the current agricultural and hygiene practices in the region are working well. However, differences in contamination among different markets and vegetable kinds highlight the importance of specific public health actions and ongoing surveillance.