The role of cockroaches as mechanical carriers of helminth infections: a systematic review and meta-analysis of environmental and climatic impacts on public health

This study investigates the global prevalence of helminthic parasites in contaminated cockroaches, with a particular focus on identifying patterns based on climatic variable, geographic location, sample sources, detection methods, and cockroach species. From 2,884 articles, 39 articles had the eligibility to be included in the current study. The analysis revealed that the highest prevalence was found in household samples (0.399, 95% CI: 0.252–0.556). Specific species, such as Blatta orientalis, showed an exceptionally high prevalence of 0.885 (95% CI: 0.822 – 0.928). Regionally, Cameroon had the highest prevalence at 0.898 (95% CI: 0.856 – 0.934). Furthermore, environmental factors significantly influenced prevalence, with regions having annual precipitation over 1000 mm and humidity above 75% showing prevalence rates of 0.387 (95% CI: 0.164 – 0.638) and 0.590 (95% CI: 0.283 – 0.863), respectively. The findings indicate a significant global challenge posed by helminthic parasites associated with cockroaches, particularly in Africa and low-income settings. Higher prevalence rates correlate with factors such as household environments and specific detection methods, notably in regions characterized by warm and humid climates. These results underscore the necessity for targeted public health interventions and the implementation of effective pest management strategies to mitigate the risks associated with cockroach-related helminthiases.