Seroprevalence and epidemiological correlates of Toxoplasma gondii infections among patients referred for hospital-based serological testing in Doha, Qatar
2008

Toxoplasma gondii Infections in Doha, Qatar

Sample size: 1625 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Abu-Madi Marawan A, Al-Molawi Naema, Behnke Jerzy M

Primary Institution: Qatar University

Hypothesis

What is the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii infections among patients in Doha, Qatar?

Conclusion

Toxoplasmosis is endemic in Qatar, with prevalence influenced by age and region of origin.

Supporting Evidence

  • 29.8% of subjects tested positive for IgG antibodies.
  • Prevalence of IgM antibodies was 5.8%.
  • Prevalence varied significantly with age and region of origin.

Takeaway

This study found that many people in Doha have been infected with a parasite from cats, and older people are more likely to have it.

Methodology

Serological testing for IgG and IgM antibodies in 1625 subjects referred for routine tests.

Potential Biases

Potential selection bias due to the specific referral criteria for serological testing.

Limitations

The study population was not randomly selected and may not represent the entire population of Qatar.

Participant Demographics

The study included 1625 subjects, with 1077 females and 548 males from various regions.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.01

Confidence Interval

95% confidence limits provided for prevalence rates.

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1756-3305-1-39

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