Clean Water and Hand Hygiene in Limiting Soil-Transmitted Helminth Infection in

Developing Countries: A Review of Evidence of Impact

Celine Aurielle1, Rachel Olivia Sabatini1, Ester Elita1, Anindhita Byakta Spasthika1
1
Faculty of Medicine, Pelita Harapan University, Tangerang, Banten, Indonesia

Introduction
Infectious diseases are a significant public health issue and the leading cause of death in
developing countries. It is closely connected with poverty, inadequate health care and
education, lifestyle choices, and environmental factors such as sanitation and poor hygiene.
Soil transmitted-helminths mainly cause intestinal parasite infection through contact with
parasite eggs or larvae that thrive in warm and moist soil. The cause of infections is caused
by nematode parasites, which include Ascaris lumbricoides, Thricuris trichiura, and
hookworm (Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus).

Objective
The study aims to evaluate the evidence of the impact of clean water and hand hygiene in
reducing soil-transmitted helminth infection in developing countries.

Method
This review was created using information gathered from online databases, such as PubMed
and ProQuest, using the keywords “Water Quality” AND “Hand Hygiene” AND “Helminths”
AND “Infections” AND “Developing Countries.” We compile data from numerous
randomized controlled trials conducted over the last five years. The systematic analysis of
this review also included the use of PICO analysis and MeSH terminology. Four studies were
discovered that matched our inclusions and exclusion criteria.

Result
A total of four studies included in this review propose that regular hand washing with soap
and water can reduce the incidence of STH infection. This is reinforced by other factors such
as clean water quality, sanitation, and deworming programs.

Conclusion
In conclusion, this systematic review comprises an evidence-based that Clean Water and
Hand Hygiene are effective in reducing infection in Soil-Transmitted Helminth amongst
young children in developing countries.

Keyword
water quality, hand hygiene, helminths, infections, developing countries