Overlooked Foodborne Parasites Caused an Estimated 171 Million Illnesses Worldwide in a Single Year
Learn how parasites that contaminate food pose a major threat around the world, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries.
A recent report from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that foodborne parasites caused an estimated 171 million illnesses worldwide in 2021, though the impact of these diseases has declined in some areas. These parasites, including nematodes and protozoa, can infect humans through contaminated food, soil, or water. The most common source of these infections was nematodes, which led to 143 million cases, mainly roundworm infections.
Protozoal infections, including toxoplasmosis, caused about 26.2 million cases. Despite the focus on other foodborne illnesses like Cyclospora, diseases like neurocysticercosis and clonorchiasis, which are prevalent in certain regions, impose a significant burden on low- and middle-income communities.
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