From Pigs to People: Uncovering the Hidden burden of Taeniasis in Cameroon

In many regions of Africa, taeniasis and cysticercosis – diseases caused by the parasitic worm Taenia solium – pose a serious and often overlooked public health threat. These diseases not only affect human health but also have a devastating impact on pig populations, which are central to the livelihoods of many rural communities. To address this growing concern, Cameroon has become one of 3 countries where ESPEN, with the generous support from GIZ, is conducting a detailed assessment of the burden of these infections, particularly in areas where conditions are conducive to their spread.

The project in Cameroon, led by WHO collaborating scientist Prof Tchuem Tchuente, aims to assess the true scale of taeniasis in humans while updating data on cysticercosis in pigs. By tackling both human and animal health, this dual approach will help guide targeted interventions to break the cycle of infection. The study involves examining pigs for T. solium through tongue inspections and necropsies, testing human stool samples using advanced techniques such as fecal microscopy and copro-DNA, and identifying factors contributing to the persistence of the parasite in the region.

Preliminary findings

Early results from the Mayo-Danay region are revealing a concerning picture. Out of 414 pigs examined, 10.39% showed signs of porcine cysticercosis. Meanwhile, tests on human stool samples found a 0.58% prevalence of taeniasis, a level that meets the World Health Organization’s threshold for initiating treatment. Additionally, surveys of 70 livestock managers uncovered risk factors such as pigs scavenging for food and a lack of latrines, both of which increase the chances of contact between pigs and human waste.

A major issue contributing to the spread of the parasite is the limited knowledge among farmers of these risks. This highlights the urgent need for educational campaigns and targeted health interventions to control the spread of T. solium in both human and pig populations.

Moving forward

These preliminary findings underscore the importance of implementing targeted interventions that address both the human and animal aspects of this health threat. By developing comprehensive strategies, Cameroon’s fight taeniasis and cysticercosis can help safeguard the health of its communities and protect the livelihoods of those who rely on pigs for their income.