Abstract

Soil-Transmitted Helminth (STH) infections remain a significant public health concern in Indonesia, particularly affecting the pediatric demographic. These infections may adversely affect nutritional status, total protein levels, and serum albumin, consequently impeding children's growth and development. This study aimed to examine the relationship between soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infection and nutritional status, total protein levels, and serum albumin in children aged 6 to 7 years in Palembang, Indonesia. A case-control study was conducted involving 160 children aged 6 to 7 years, divided into two groups based on proximity to a landfill: those living near the landfill and those living at a wider distance. Stool analyses were conducted to detect STH infection, anthropometric measurements were employed to assess nutritional status, and blood samples were collected to evaluate total protein and serum albumin levels. We employed chi-square tests and the non-parametric Mann–Whitney U test to analyze the data. The overall prevalence of STH infections was 11.2%, with all affected children residing in proximity to the landfill. A significant correlation existed between STH infection and reduced total protein levels (p < 0.001; OR = 172.5). However, no substantial relationships were seen between STH infection and serum albumin levels (p = 0.060) or nutritional status as assessed by body mass index-for-age, weight-for-age, and height-for-age measures. In conclusion, STH infection was substantially associated with an increased risk of low total protein levels in children aged 6 to 7 years in Palembang. In contrast, no substantial association was found between STH infection and serum albumin levels or anthropometric indicators of nutritional status. These findings indicate that immediate public health interventions are necessary, including enhanced sanitation, health education, and routine deworming initiatives, particularly in communities adjacent to landfills.

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