Seroprevalence of Fasciola hepatica in Turkey: A Meta-Analysis

Özsever O, Prevalence of Fasciola Hepatica in Türkiye: A Meta-Analysis. Van Yuzuncu Yil University, Institute of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Parasitology, Master's Thesis, Van, 2025. This study is a meta-analysis conducted to evaluate the prevalence of Fasciola hepatica in Turkey. Fasciola hepatica is a zoonotic parasite that affects both human and animal health, and its prevalence is of significant importance for both veterinary medicine and public health in countries like Turkey where livestock farming is widespread. In the research, prevalence data from 23 studies published between 2000 and 2025 in the Web of Science, PubMed, SCOPUS, EBSCO, and ULAKBİM databases were systematically compiled and analyzed. Sample sizes, diagnostic methods, and regional distributions of the studies were examined. According to the findings obtained, fecal positivity rates across Turkey range from 0%.to 1.8%. In studies involving blood analysis, the prevalence of F. hepatica was found to range between 0% and 19.67%. The highest prevalence was detected particularly in the Eastern and Southeastern Anatolia regions, a situation which may be associated with intensive livestock farming activities and living conditions in these areas. The results of the study indicate that Fasciola hepatica infection may constitute a significant public health issue in Turkey, especially in rural areas. Regional variations in prevalence highlight the need for the development of targeted preventive health strategies. Comprehensive future screenings and the integration of updated data will serve as an important guide in combating this parasite.