Effects of intestinal helminth infection in early childhood on immune response, inflammation, anaemia and malnutrition

Project

Using a cohort of 2000 rural Zanzibari children, this programme will explore whether first-time intestinal worm infections contribute to severe anaemia and malnutrition in children under two years of age, and whether treatment of the infections can prevent those adverse effects. This will test the hypothesis that first time intestinal worm infections in young children cause an immune response that suppresses children's appetite, causes them to break down muscle protein and blocks the formation of red blood cells. In subsamples of children, specific mechanisms relevant to the hypothesis will be assessed, including specific aspects of the immune response that might be deleterious (e.g. intestinal blood loss, defects in blood production and breakdown of muscle protein).

Malnutrition, measured as low weight-for-age, is one of the strongest known risk factors for child mortality in developing countries. Severe anaemia may also contribute to mortality in children, especially when it coexists with respiratory illness. Both malnutrition and anaemia are also associated with behavioural alterations and delays in child development. This programme will seek to achieve a clearer understanding of the role of intestinal worm infections in these conditions that affect so many children in developing countries.

Applicants

Dr R J Stoltzfus
School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Dr J M Tielsch
School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Dr B Caballero
School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Dr K O O'Brien
School of Hygiene and Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Dr Q D Bickle
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK

Dr M G Taylor
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK

Dr J G Raynes
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK

Dr R E Weir
Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK

Dr H M Chwaya
Ministry of Health, Zanzibar, Tanzania

Dr M R Mohammed
Pemba Public Health Laboratory, Pemba Island, Zanzibar