RETROSPECTIVE STATISTICAL ANALYSIS OF PARASITIC INFECTIONS IN SAMARKAND, UZBEKISTAN

Nazarova Fatima Sharipovna; Alkov Ruslan Alimjonovich; Lutfullaev Khafizullo Zaynullaevich; Ruzikulov Xumoyunbek Kuyli ugli; Yakubova Khadichakhon Kasymkhonovna

Authors

Nazarova Fatima Sharipovna Senior Teacher of the Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Alkov Ruslan Alimjonovich Student, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Lutfullaev Khafizullo Zaynullaevich Student, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Ruzikulov Xumoyunbek Kuyli ugli Student, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan
Yakubova Khadichakhon Kasymkhonovna Student, Samarkand State Medical University, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Keywords:

Parasitic infections, Giardia lamblia, Enterobius vermicularis, Epidemiology, Uzbekistan.

Abstract

Background. Intestinal parasitic infections remain a major public health concern, particularly in low-resource settings. They are associated with malnutrition, impaired growth, and developmental delays, especially in pediatric populations. Methods. A retrospective study analyzed 1,037 medical records from the Parasitology Clinic at Samarkand State Medical University, Uzbekistan, between December 2023 and March 2024. Data included age, sex, and laboratory-confirmed parasitic infections. Statistical analysis was conducted in Microsoft Excel 2010 using chi-square tests, with p < 0.05 considered significant. Results. The cohort (56.31% male, mean birth year 2017) revealed Giardia lamblia (24.42%) and Enterobius vermicularis (17.37%) as the most prevalent infections. Only one case of Entamoeba histolytica was identified. Giardiasis prevalence peaked in school-age children (30.79%) and adolescents (30.67%), while enterobiasis was most common in the elderly (38.46%). A significant sex-based difference in enterobiasis prevalence was observed (p=0.011), with higher rates among females. Conclusion. Intestinal parasitic infections remain an important health issue in Samarkand, predominantly affecting pediatric populations. Preventive measures, improved sanitation, school-based health programs, and continued epidemiological monitoring are essential to reduce the burden.