Multiparity as a risk factor for congenital toxoplasmosis: a cross-sectional study
# Background Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) is caused by placental transfer of *Toxoplasma gondii* to the fetus, which can generate neurological, neurocognitive deficits, or death. Appropriate preventive strategies are required for infection-related risk factors. This study assessed the prevalence o...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Inishmore Laser Scientific Publishing Ltd
2021-12-01
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| Series: | Journal of Global Health Reports |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.29392/001c.29891 |
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| Summary: | # Background
Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) is caused by placental transfer of *Toxoplasma gondii* to the fetus, which can generate neurological, neurocognitive deficits, or death. Appropriate preventive strategies are required for infection-related risk factors. This study assessed the prevalence of *T. gondii* infection and the factors associated with CT in pregnant women with assistance from the Public Health Service at Ouro Preto, Brazil.
# Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted between April and December 2020. Pregnant women (n=131) aged between 13 and 46 years, were recruited and evaluated for specific IgM/IgG antibody levels against *T. gondii*. A structured questionnaire was applied to determine the socioeconomic, environmental, gestational, clinical, and dietary patterns.
# Results
The prevalence of *T. gondii* was 45.8% (n = 60) in which multiparas revealed to be more exposed to infection and were 2.6 times more likely to become infected with the parasite compared to primiparas, (odds ratio, OR=2.60; 95% confidence interval, CI=1.25-5.39). A high prevalence of *T. gondii* seropositivity was found to be related to the absence of basic sanitation at home. In conclusion, multiparas constitute risk factor for CT.
# Conclusions
Educational and preventive measures should be intensified in uninfected multiparas to raise awareness about the potential risks of contact with *T. gondii*. |
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| ISSN: | 2399-1623 |