Study of Oral Parasite Infection in University and School Students in Al Kut City

Author(s): Muammar Abdel-Ammer Kadhim
Date: 09/10/2026
doi: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8425890

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Abstract

The Parasitology Laboratory at the University of Wasit's College of Science conducted research on the 
Entamoeba gingivalis and Trichomonas tenax, two oral parasites, between November 2025 and May 2026. 
pupils from the University of Wasit as well as male and female elementary and secondary school pupils 
participated in the study. Using direct smears and wet slide preparation, one hundred saliva, mouthwash, 
and gingival smear samples from a variety of age groups (10–40 years) were investigated.The The total 
Entamoeba gingivalis infection rate was 55%, but the Trichomonas tenax infection rate was 2%, according 
to the data. Males aged 10 to 15 had the highest infection rate (70%), whereas females aged 31 to 35 had 
the highest infection rate (100%) with Entamoeba gingivalis . Gingivitis and oral amoebiasis were shown 
to be associated at a rate of 25%, but among individuals with dental caries but healthy gums, this number 
rose to 75%. Statistically significant differences were determined at the probability level (p<0.05). The 
incidence of oral parasites has not yet been linked to smoking, diabetes, socioeconomic position, or 
educational attainment, according to this study.

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