Role of Parasites in Cancer

Abstract

BACKGROUND: In areas of parasitic endemicity, the occurrence of cancer that is not frequent may be linked with parasitic infection. Epidemiological ,correlates between some parasitic infections and cancer is strong, suggesting a strong aetiological association. The common parasites associated with human cancers are schistosomiasis, malaria, liver flukes (Clonorchis ,sinenses, Opistorchis viverrini).
OBJECTIVE:  To review the pathology, literature and methods of diagnosis.
METHOD: Literature review from peer reviewed Journals cited in PubMed and local journals.  
CONCLUSION: Parasites may serve as promoters of cancer in endemic areas of infection.
KEY WORD: parasites; cancers; schistosomiasis; liver flukes