Prevalence of Entamoeba Gingivalis and Trichomonas Tenax among Nursing Staff and Students: Study their Relationship with Some Health Parameters

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the prevalence of Entamoeba Gingivalis and Trichomonas Tenax among nursing staff and students: study their relationship with some health parameters

Study Design: Descriptive study
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Nursing College, Kufa University of Najaf City, Iraq, from 1st January 2026 to 31st March 2026.

Methods: A total of 100 participants consisting of staff and students of both males and females from 19 to 50 years were enrolled.

Results: There were 58.9% non-infected and 50%, 42.9% were shown with Trichomonas Tenax and Entamoeba Gingivalis respectively. In the 19-34-year age group, 44.4%, 41.7% were infected with Entamoeba Gingivalis and
both male and female recorded 33.3% with Trichomonas Tenax. Also, in the 35-50 years' group, 55.6%, 58.3% were noticed with Entamoeba Gingivalis and 66.7%, with T. tenax for both male and female. In contrast, all participants in the non-infected group, both males and female (100%), exhibited normal amylase levels, with no cases of elevated amylase. Furthermore, for males and females with parasitic infections, no significant associations were found (p > 0.05), with sinusitis, pharyngitis, nasal allergy, and gingivitis in both sexes in relation with malondialdehyde.

Conclusion: No significant difference in terms of oral parasite infections within the educated population. The health parameters did not show statistically significant results related to these infections, which may be due to factors such as the severity of the infection, sample size, and the population's level of awareness. However, the presence of disturbances in the parameters (either high or low) compared to normal values suggests the need for further research. This is particularly important for all population groups, especially those with periodontitis and poor oral hygiene, as studying the relationship between these parameters and the two parasites could serve as an important indicator.