Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science

Keywords

Carica papaya, Ethanolic extract, Molluscicide, Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi, Niclosamide

Abstract

Schistosomiasis is one of the Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) caused by parasitic blood flukes known as trematodes that are contracted through contact with contaminated water. It primarily affects 78 countries worldwide, with an estimated 251.4 million people requiring preventive treatment as of 2021 (WHO, 2023). In the Philippines, schistosomiasis remains a major public health concern due to the country’s abundance of freshwater bodies, which support the high reproduction rate of snail species that serve as intermediate hosts. One such species is Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi, a freshwater snail known to transmit Schistosoma japonicum—the causative agent of schistosomiasis. Plant extract, such as Carica papaya, was found to contain anthelmintic compounds, such as papain and benzyl isothiocyanate. These compounds break down the proteins of microorganisms, which disrupts their life cycles and ultimately kills them (Ibrahim & Sayed, 2020). This study aims to evaluate the molluscicidal effect of the Carica papaya ethanolic seed extract against the Oncomelania hupensis quadrasi snail in certain areas in Gonzaga, Cagayan, Philippines. The study compares the effectiveness of C. papaya ethanolic seed extract with that of niclosamide, a commonly used synthetic molluscicide. The findings revealed that the papaya seed extract was as effective as niclosamide in eliminating O. hupensis quadrasi snails, providing a promising alternative to synthetic chemicals, especially in terms of environmental safety. Niclosamide, while effective, has known ecological drawbacks, such as toxicity to non-target organisms, including fish and other aquatic life, which limits its broader application. The extract offers a promising alternative for integrated pest management, particularly in tropical regions where O. hupensis quadrasi snails are prevalent and schistosomiasis remains a public health challenge .

First Advisor

Amapola D. Puaso, RMT, MSMT

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