The Spread of a Parasite is One of the Reasons for the Increase in Accident Statistics in Iran

A senior research official in Iran states that "on average, 30 to 40 percent of the Iranian population has been infected with the Toxoplasma parasite at least once," and the consequences of this infection "increase traffic accident statistics in Iran." Dr. Bahador Hajimohammadi, head of the Health and Food Safety Research Center in Yazd, told ISNA that the parasite "Toxoplasma gondii" is one of the most common parasitic infections in Iran, with a higher risk for drivers over 40 years old. "Toxoplasma gondii" is a single-celled parasite that can infect humans and many mammals, causing the disease "toxoplasmosis." Excessive growth of the parasite in the body and the immune system's inability to combat it can lead to severe neurological symptoms, seizures, or death in individuals with immune system diseases. However, acute symptoms of the disease subside in many individuals after a while, and they recover. Nevertheless, the disease can persist in some individuals and lead to the formation of parasitic cysts in the brain and muscles. As explained by Bahador Hajimohammadi, these cysts can increase the production of "dopamine." Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter that plays an important role in creating feelings of pleasure and happiness. This neurotransmitter also plays a role in controlling the motor system. Dr. Hajimohammadi states that "increased dopamine production leads to changes in behavior and mood, such that the presence of these cysts in the brain causes the driver to react slower than usual when faced with obstacles while driving and may not be able to stop the vehicle in time, ultimately leading to accidents." The head of the Yazd Health and Food Safety Research Center mentions that the main method of transmission of the parasite is through the consumption of unwashed fruits and vegetables, undercooked or bloody meat and liver, or through cats. He also advises that "when changing the litter of pet cats, gloves must be used." Research from the "National Institute of Health" in the United States indicates that "Toxoplasma gondii" is a very common parasite in developing countries, with 30 to 60 percent of the global population infected or having the parasite continuously present in their bodies. Dr. Bahador Hajimohammadi refers to reports indicating that the infection rate of Toxoplasma in Isfahan is 43 percent, in Ardabil 18 percent, in Gilan province 66 percent, and in Zahedan 22 percent. According to this researcher, "the infection is more prevalent in humid areas of the country such as Gilan than in dry areas like Zahedan." Based on research published in the Journal of Experimental Biology, there is a possibility that individuals infected with the parasite may exhibit behavioral changes. The consequences of this infection may lead to neurological disorders. Studies conducted by a group of specialists at the "National Institute of Health" library show that the disease "toxoplasmosis" increases the risk of accidents by about 2.6 times in infected individuals. A similar study has also been conducted in Turkey. This parasite can be detected through blood samples and is treatable within three to four weeks.