IIARD International Institute of Academic Research and Development

JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND GENETIC RESEARCH (JBGR )

E-ISSN 2545-5710
P-ISSN 2695-222X
VOL. 10 NO. 2 2024
DOI: 10.56201/jbgr.v10.no2.2024.pg76.82

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The Invisible Invaders: Uncovering the Secrets of Parasitic Infections (Review Article)

Haleema Salman Salih, Qudus Wamidh and Sahar Hisham Abdurazzaq

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Abstract

Background: Parasitic diseases, which are often called the "invisible invaders," have a significant impact on global health. These infections, caused by protozoa, helminths, and parasites, affect millions of people worldwide, particularly in impoverished settings. Understanding the intricacies of these diseases is essential for developing effective strategies to control and treat them. Objectives: This article aims to provide a comprehensive description of parasitic diseases, their prevalence, and the biological mechanisms they use to infect their hosts, focusing on their epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, and public health aspects. Methods: The synthesis discusses the current state of research and findings from various sources, including articles that are publicly accessible and global health reports. It encompasses the fundamental cycle of life and the pathogenic mechanisms that lead to disease, as well as the impact of parasites on human health and the development of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Conclusion: Parasitic diseases have a variety of biological mechanisms and complex cycles. Protozoa like Plasmodium are involved, and Trypanosoma spp., parasites like worms or lice and parasitic worms that are transmitted by soil, as well as parasites that are present in the air, present unique difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Environmental, economic, and behavioral factors have an effect on the frequency of these diseases. Diagnostic methods include traditional microscopy as well as advanced molecular methods, the latter of which is intended to treat diseases. Public health initiatives, including vector control, widespread distribution of drugs, and enhanced sanitation, have a significant role in controlling parasitic diseases.

keywords:

Parasitic infections, protozoa, helminths, ectoparasites, epidemiology, diagnosis, treatment, public health.

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