A Survey of Female Genital Schistosomiasis, Clinical Manifestations, and Socio-economic Risk Factors Associated with Females of Reproductive Age in Two Selected Local Government Areas in Kaduna State, Nigeria
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Abstract
Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected tropical disease caused by Schistosoma haematobium, which is transmitted through contact with infested freshwater. FGS symptoms include vaginal discharge, itching, dysuria, and dyspareunia, which can mimic sexually transmitted infections. It disproportionately affects women in rural sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where access to clean water and healthcare is limited. Across-sectional study was conducted in four communities in Igabi and Jama’a Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Purposive sampling was employed, focusing on women aged 15–40 years. Urine samples were analysed using physical, chemical, and parasitological methods. Clinical examination of the cervix was performed to identify the characteristic lesions of FGS. Asso community in Jama’a LGA recorded the highest perception of multiple symptoms at 30%, while Zangon Aya community in Igabi LGA recorded the least, 02%. Urinalysis results revealed two local governments with positive socio-economic risk factors cases of Schistosoma haematobium: Gadan Gaya (2.3%) and Igabi (5.7%), accounting for 1.9% of positive cases from the total number of subjects investigated, with haematuria detected in 24 samples, representing 11.1% of the specimens. Of the 200 women examined, 27% in Igabi and 22% in Jama’a LGA tested positive for FGS via cervical examination. Grainy sandy patches and rubbery papules were observed among participants in Igabi and Jama’a, 32% and 34%, respectively. Participants aged 15–19 had the highest infection rate at 27.5%, while 20 -24 had the lowest at 20.5%. Water sources were pipe-borne (64%), rivers (11%), and streams (20%), with 43.5% of respondents not treating water before use. Awareness of FGS symptoms was low, with only 15.5% of respondents recognising genital itching as a concern. This study confirmed the prevalence of FGS in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Recommendations include integrating FGS screening into reproductive health services, increasing community sensitisation.
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