Gastrointestinal Parasites and their Zoonotic Potential in Domestic Pigs Raised by Ethnic Communities in the Chattogram Hill Tracts, Bangladesh.

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal (GI) parasitism, a major concern in pig farming, causes economic losses and poses zoonotic risks. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of GI parasites in domestic pigs in the Chattogram Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh, as well as assess their potential zoonotic risk to the region's ethnic communities. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Rangamati, Khagrachari, and Bandarban districts, where 488 fresh fecal samples were collected and analyzed using direct smear, sedimentation, and flotation techniques to identify parasite species. KEY FINDINGS: The overall prevalence of GI parasites was 82.5%, with parasites morphologically compatible with Balantioides coli (59.63%) being the most prevalent, followed by Entamoeba coli (28.48%) and Strongyloides ransomi (19.06%). A high proportion (50.67%) of mixed infections was also recorded. Among the ten morphologically compatible parasite taxa identified, six were classified as having zoonotic potential. Statistical analysis identified a significant association between pig breed and parasitic infection, with crossbred pigs exhibiting higher infection rates. Additionally, Rangamati district was identified as a marginally higher risk area. Although higher infection rates were observed in younger, male, and antiparasitic-treated pigs, these differences were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of potentially zoonotic parasites underscores the critical need for improved hygiene, strategic deworming, and targeted interventions to mitigate health risks for both the pig populations and the local ethnic communities of Bangladesh. This study also demonstrates the need for surveillance and control programs to ensure sustainable pig farming and public health safety in the CHT region.