About This Project

Urogenital schistosomiasis is a snail-borne infection having a huge socioeconomic impact on underserved communities of sub-Saharan Africa. The disease affects the urinary and genital systems and causes chronic complications such as anemia, bladder cancer, infertility and other gynaecological problems. Communities around water bodies in Kano State suffer from infection, suggesting the need for community-based sustainable interventions to reduce disease morbidities and block further transmission.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

A number of earthen dams are built throughout Kano State. These dams are excellent habitats for vector snails that transmit schistosome parasites into humans via contact with infected water. More than 55% of people in Kano State live on less than one dollar (Nigeria has more people in extreme poverty than any other country in the world). Poverty increases the likelihood of contact with infected water, making people vulnerable to infection. Our research suggests a high proportion of blood in the urine and pain during urination among school-aged children and adults in the study area, despite previous school-based chemotherapy campaigns. Many infected people do not understand the disease, risking them to having chronic complications.

What is the significance of this project?

Research findings revealed a high prevalence of bladder cancer in Kano State, Nigeria, which was linked to high prevalence of schistosomiasis. Due to inadequate clean water, preponderance of water bodies which harbor the snail hosts and poor perception of the disease, transmission continues through contact with contaminated water in the study area. In order to reduce the disease burden and block further transmission in these remote communities a multidimensional and sustainable implementation of efficacious interventions is necessary. This suggests the need for community-based sustainable interventions to contribute to the global disease elimination efforts and improve the quality of lives of the poor and vulnerable community.

What are the goals of the project?

This project aims to reduce the burden of urogenital schistosomiasis and block further transmission at the community level by taking a baseline data on the risk factors and providing mass treatment with Praziquantel.

We plan to conduct health education campaign on schistosomiasis transmission risks through radio jingles, display of posters and billboards, and periodic lectures.

The project will conduct a targeted distribution of personal protective products, to the occupational subgroups; fishermen and farmers and construct local toilet facilities to prevent open defecation and urination.

We plan for follow up to assess re-infection and compliance to interventions. Our findings will be reported in conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.