Author summary Hookworm infection remains a serious health problem in China, especially in poor rural areas. Our national study (2016–2021) found the disease mainly affects southwest regions, with women and older adults being most vulnerable. Using mapping technology and computer analysis, we discovered that working barefoot in fields is the biggest risk, along with living in warm, humid areas with less sunlight. The disease shows clear patterns – staying concentrated in the southwest while rarely appearing in northeast China. These findings highlight three key solutions: (1) special attention on shoe-wearing in farm workers, (2) focusing control efforts on high-risk southwest regions, and (3) educating vulnerable groups. Our approach combining geographic mapping with artificial intelligence not only helps China fight hookworm but could also work for similar diseases in other countries.
Discussion
To understand the epidemiological status and trends of this parasitic infections, the national surveillance of hookworm disease in China represents the most comprehensive and systematic approach, beyond nationwide surveys. The national sur… [10561 chars]
Source: PLOS (Public Library of Science) | Published: 2025-09-30T00:00:00Z
Credit: PLOS (Public Library of Science)
