Exploring global trends in human toxoplasmosis seroprevalence by meta-analysis

Abstract

Understanding the global prevalence of infectious diseases is essential for effective public health strategies and resource allocation. Among foodborne diseases, toxoplasmosis—caused by Toxoplasma gondii—poses significant health risks, particularly for pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals. This study presents one of the most comprehensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses to date, synthesizing global seroprevalence estimates of human toxoplasmosis from 320 studies, covering 658,172 individuals across 113 countries and six continents, spanning the period from 1959 to 2020. A thorough literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar, applying rigorous inclusion criteria to ensure methodological consistency. The pooled global seroprevalence was estimated at 31 % (95 % CI: 28–34 %), with marked heterogeneity between studies (I² = 99.6 %). The highest prevalence was observed in Australia (54 %), South America (45 %), and Africa (42 %), while Asia reported the lowest (25 %). Country-wise, Brazil and Ghana had the highest prevalence (68 %), whereas Vietnam had the lowest (5 %). Temporal analysis revealed an upward trend, reaching 34 % during 2011–2020. Diagnostic methods significantly influenced prevalence estimates, with IFAT yielding the highest rate (41 %). Extensive subgroup analyses by region, time period, country, and diagnostic technique provided granular insights into seroprevalence patterns. While acknowledging limitations such as selection bias and diagnostic variability, this study offers an unparalleled synthesis of global data, filling critical knowledge gaps. The findings serve as an essential reference point for global public health planning, particularly in high-prevalence regions.