Epidemiological Characteristics of Hydatid Cyst Disease Crucial for Targeted Public Health Interventions in Endemic Areas

Background: Echinococcosis, caused by Echinococcus granulosus larvae, remains a significant public health challenge globally due to its complex life cycle and impact on human health and economy. The disease primarily affects intermediate hosts, including humans, through the formation of hydatid cysts in various organs, notably the liver and lungs. Despite advancements in treatment with albendazole and surgical interventions, recurrence rates and morbidity remain considerable, particularly in endemic regions. Methods: This retrospective hospital-based study analyzed 66 cases of hydatid cyst disease admitted to Baquba Teaching Hospital in Diyala Governorate, Iraq, between January 2019 and December 2022. Data on patient demographics, including age, gender, residency, occupation, and cyst location, were extracted from medical records and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Females constituted 61% of the cases, with the highest incidence observed among individuals aged 21-40 years (44%). Rural residents accounted for 65% of cases, reflecting the disease's association with agricultural activities. Housewives (51.5%) and primary school students (55.5% among students) were disproportionately affected. The liver was the most common site of cyst development (74.2%), followed by the lung (24.2%). Conclusion: This study provides crucial insights into the epidemiological profile of hydatid cyst disease in Diyala Governorate, Iraq. The findings underscore the demographic patterns, occupational risks, and anatomical distributions associated with the disease, highlighting the need for targeted public health interventions. Strategies focusing on rural communities, particularly women and school-age children, are essential for effective prevention and management of hydatid disease in endemic regions.