Frequency of Intestinal Parasitic Infection and Associated Factors Among HIV Patients on Antiretroviral Therapy at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: A 5-Year Retrospective Study.

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasite infections (IPIs) are significant public health concerns, particularly for those with HIV/AIDS. Low hygiene standards, tainted water, and inadequate sanitation all contribute to Ethiopia's high frequency of IPIs. HIV patients are still susceptible to several parasitic illnesses even after antiretroviral medication (ART) and deworming efforts have been implemented. The data in the study area are restricted, despite the fact that few studies describe IPIs among HIV patients. Furthermore, by taking sociodemographic and clinical aspects into account, this study produced thorough 5-year data. In order to fill in the gaps in local epidemiological data and guide focused treatments, this study evaluated the frequency of IPIs and the factors that are linked to them among HIV patients receiving ART.

Objective: To assess the frequency of IPIs and related variables in HIV/AIDS patients receiving ART at Debre Tabor Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (DTCSH), Ethiopia.

Methods: A 5-year retrospective hospital-based study was conducted using medical records of 600 HIV patients on ART at DTCSH. Included were data registered between May 2020 and May 2025. Data on sociodemographic, CD₄ counts, ART duration, and IPIs were extracted from patient cards using a convenient sampling technique. SPSS Version 26 was utilized for data entry and analysis. Descriptive statistics along with bivariate and multivariable analyses were conducted. All variables in the multivariable logistic regression were deemed statistically significant if their p value was less than 0.05 at a 95% confidence interval. Text, tables, and graphs were used to display the data.

Results: Out of 600 records, 33.5% of people have IPIs. Entamoeba histolytica (59.7%) and Giardia lamblia (33.3%) were the most common parasites found. Individuals with age over 60 years and those living in rural areas had considerably higher IPIs (p < 0.05). However, when comparing patient records examined in the first year to those in the fifth, the frequency of IPIs declined. Furthermore, those with low CD₄ counts (less than 200 cells/μL), advanced WHO clinical stages (3-4), and shorter ART durations (less than 5 years) had significantly higher likelihood of IPIs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Among HIV patients receiving ART, IPIs remain prevalent. Important determinants of IPIs include age, place of residency, CD₄ count, WHO stages, and adherence to ART. Long-term ART adherence has shown protective advantages, underscoring its importance in reducing the burden of IPIs. Enhancing the management of parasitic infections and HIV requires integrated strategies that include improved sanitation, frequent testing, and health education. Future large-scale research is also necessary.