[Epidemiological study of intestinal helminthiasis in the island of Tortuga (Haiti). I. Prevalence of trichocephalosis, ascaridiasis and necatoriasis studied from elimination of eggs in the stools]

An epidemiological survey is conducted by spot-checks over about 10% of the population of Tortuga Island in order to estimate the prevalence of intestinal helminthiasis in that region of the Republic of Haïti, by researching the presence of eggs in faeces. Population sample is representative of the whole of the island's population excepting the 0-4 years old group whose faeces are difficult to obtain. Faeces are examined through the Kato method, a very simple, quick and remarkably accurate procedure. Trichuriasis and ascariasis, which are transmitted in the area around the house, affect mainly children, but also adults. Women seem to be more often infested than men by Ascaris lumbricoides. Necatoriasis, the farmer's disease, hits primarily young men and elderly women who spend most time in the fields. It is observed in inland villages where people are engaged in agricultural production, with a higher incidence if they are located in a not so sloping zone.