ABSTRACT
Given the prevalence of helminth infections, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of antihelminthic interventions in community-based distribution (CBD) family planning programs. This chapter reviews elements of helminth biology and treatment which are important to consider in planning such projects. In order to discuss the control of helminth infections within the context of CBD programs, it is reasonable to focus attention on the most widespread and prevalent agents, Ascaris, Trichuris, and hookworms. Antihelminthic therapy alone administered in the context of a CBD program is unlikely to have any significant health or nutrition benefit for the population treated. The addition of antihelminthic therapy is of value, but is, strictly speaking, unnecessary to control the anemia. Although many individuals are multiply infected by helminths, many remain uninfected. This epidemiology is accounted for by the biology of the worm and by the sociology of the host.
