Examining the impact of parasitic infections on mental health and health indices in patients from southern Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Parasitic infections, including malaria, schistosomiasis, intestinal helminthiasis, and toxoplasmosis, are prevalent in southern Nigeria and have been linked to neuroinflammatory and nutritional pathways that may contribute to mental health disorders. Objective: To determine the prevalence of parasitic infections among psychiatric patients in southern Nigeria and examine associations between parasitic infection status, mental health disorders, and general health indices. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among psychiatric patients across three tertiary facilities in South-South Nigeria. Participants underwent clinical psychiatric evaluation (DSM-5 criteria) alongside parasitological testing (blood microscopy, rapid diagnostic tests, Kato-Katz stool analysis, urine filtration, and ELISA serology). Results: Malaria was the most common infection identified, followed by intestinal helminths, schistosomiasis, and toxoplasmosis. Parasitic infection was associated with significantly higher rates of depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, psychosis, and PTSD, alongside lower hemoglobin, BMI, cognitive function, quality of life, and immune function scores (all p<0.05). Conclusion: Parasitic infections are associated with poorer mental health and general health outcomes among psychiatric patients in southern Nigeria. Integrating parasitic infection screening and treatment into mental health care, alongside broader public health prevention measures, may improve outcomes in affected populations.