Worm treatment strategy could benefit millions of kids

About 880 million children around the world are exposed to intestinal worms. Children with intestinal worms may not develop to their full physical and intellectual capacity. This makes it harder to break the poverty cycle. A landmark new study shows the benefits of an expanded treatment strategy for intestinal worms - treating adults as well as children - that could improve the health of millions of children in Southeast Asia, the Pacific and Africa. Dr Naomi Clarke from ANU said children from the poorest communities suffered from consequences of infestations, such as poor growth and development, and chronic intestinal blood loss and anaemia in some cases. "About 880 million children around the world are exposed to intestinal worms. Children with intestinal worms may not develop to their full physical and intellectual capacity.