Prevalence and post-exposure knowledge, attitudes, and practices of schistosomiasis patients in selected local government areas of kano state, Nigeria

Background

Schistosomiasis is a major public health concern in Nigeria, with approximately 29 million infected individuals and 101 million at risk. Despite its prevalence, there is a significant gap in research on post-exposure knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) throughout much of Nigeria, particularly in Kano State.

Objective

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of schistosomiasis and evaluate post-exposure KAPs among patients in selected Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kano State, Nigeria.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted, analyzing 326 urine samples microscopically and collecting data on KAPs via structured questionnaires.

Results

The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis was 26.68%, with 62.22%of respondents reporting prior knowledge of the disease and 46.97% acknowledging previous infections. Common symptoms included haematuria (25.42%), urethral pain (31.23%), and cystitis (27.84%). Perceived causative factors included water contact (23.48%), sunlight exposure (30.02%), and excess salt intake (35.83%). Post-exposure complications included urogenital blockage (97.57%), difficulty urinating (6.05%), and infertility (5.32%), alongside less frequent reports of bladder cancer (1.93%) and urogenital ulceration (2.17%).

Conclusion

The relatively high prevalence and significant knowledge gaps shows the need for community-based educationandimproved access to prevention and treatment strategies in the studied area.