Prevalence of Acute and Chronic <i>Toxoplasma gondii</i> Infection in the Iranian Women of Reproductive Age: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Data Published Between 2010 - 2024

Abstract

Context: Toxoplasma gondii remains a global concern, especially in developing countries. This parasite is particularly important in women of childbearing age due to its increased risk of miscarriage and serious complications in the newborn. Objectives: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determinet the serum prevalence of acute and chronic T. gondii infection in women of reproductive age in Iran. Methods: The systematic search process was carried out from January 2010 to July 2024 through four English databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct) and two Persian databases (Magiran and SID) as well as Google Scholar as a specialized search engine for the article. Meta-analysis analysis was performed using a random effects model. Prevalence estimates and 95% confidence intervals were calculated for each study. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 statistic. Egger and Begg's test was also used to assess the publication bias. Results: A total of 869 records were retrieved, resulting in 28 studies including 13,177 individuals of reproductive age included in the meta-analysis for T. gondii-specific IgG and/or IgM antibodies. The seroprevalence of IgG and IgM antibody serum in women is 29% (95% CI: 23% - 34%) and 4% (95% CI:3% - 5%) respectively. Egger's test results (P = 0.001) showed publication bias. Conclusions: The prevalence of chronic (IgG) and acute infection (IgM) T. gondii in women of reproductive age in Iran is relatively high. Therefore, there is an urgent need for education to increase women's awareness.