Estimating the Prevalence of Parasitic Infections in Migrant Workers in the Middle East: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis



Taheri SM ; Makipour H ; Bahadory S ; Javanmard E ; Dehbanipour S ; Taghipur A ; Hassanpour G ; Kazemirad E
Source: Iranian Journal of Public Health Published:2025

Abstract

Background: Parasitic diseases, including food-borne and vector-borne infections, remain a significant burden, especially with the increased migration from underdeveloped to developed regions. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of parasitic infections among migrant workers in the Middle East. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis followed the PRISMA protocol. A search was conducted across major databases (Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar) for studies on parasitic infections among migrant workers in the Middle East from April 1, 1993, to November 15, 2024. Data were analyzed using Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (CMA), and 25 studies were included. Results: The overall prevalence of parasitic infections in this study was estimated at 16.5%. (95% CI 2.7 to 58.5%). The prevalence based on microscopic diagnostic methods was 19.4% (95% CI 13.5% to 27.5%), and molecular diagnosis was 15.2% (95% CI 6.4% to 32.4%). The P-value in Egger's test was 0.5343, indicating no statistically significant evidence of publication bias. The pooled prevalence varied across countries: 34.7% in Iraq (n = 1 study), 19.6% in Saudi Arabia (n = 12 studies), 16.8% in the UAE (n = 4 studies), 13.2% in Qatar (n = 7 studies), and 4.2% in Kuwait (n = 1 study). Conclusion: The prevalence of parasitic infections among migrant workers in the Middle East was estimated at 16.5%. Given this rate, routine mandatory screening is recommended along with targeted health education to reduce exposure risk and improve health. These findings highlight the public health concern that infected migrant workers may contribute to the spread of parasitic diseases in destination countries. Copyright © 2025 Taheri et al.