Cestoda Tapeworm Fun Facts

1
Cestoda / Tapeworm Fun Facts

• Symptoms may include upper abdominal discomfort,
  diarrhea, and loss of appetite. However,
  infestations are usually asymptomatic.
• Tapeworms can grow 15 to 30 feet (10 meters) in
  length.
• The largest tapeworms grow up to 59 feet (18
  meters).
• Tapeworms harm their host by stealing vital
  nutrients, causing malnutrition and, if left
  untreated, can cause intestinal blockages.

2
Mythology of Curing Tapeworm Infections

• One method for curing tapeworms is referred to as
  the way "Grandma and Grandad" use to treat worms
  stick a biscuit (or a lump of meat) up the anus
  each day for a week. Then on the 8th day, stop
  doing it. When the tapeworm comes out looking for
  its biscuit, grab it an pull it out. Naturally
  this is a joke - tapeworms wouldn't recognise a
  biscuit and lack the gullet to digest one anyway.
  

3
Risk Factors for Tapeworms

• Poor hygiene. Infrequent washing and bathing
  increases the risk of accidental transfer of
  contaminated matter to your mouth.
• Exposure to livestock. This is especially
  problematic in areas where human and animal feces
  are not disposed of properly.
• Frequent travel to developing countries.
  Infection occurs more frequently in areas with
  poor sanitation practices.
• Eating raw or undercooked meats. Improper cooking
  may fail to kill tapeworm eggs and larvae
  contained in contaminated pork or beef.