| Title: |
Mainstreaming female genital schistosomiasis to ensure it is not neglected among the neglected tropical diseases |
| Authors: |
Mutapi, Francisca; Hietanen, Helmi; Mduluza, Takafira |
| Source: |
Parasitology ; volume 152, issue 14, page 1561-1569 ; ISSN 0031-1820 1469-8161 |
| Publisher Information: |
Cambridge University Press (CUP) |
| Publication Year: |
2025 |
| Description: |
Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected manifestation of Schistosoma haematobium infection, affecting an estimated 56 million women in sub-Saharan Africa. It is characterized by lesions in the genital tract, leading to symptoms like pain, infertility and an increased risk of HIV transmission. Despite its prevalence, FGS remains underdiagnosed and underreported due to limited awareness and diagnostic capabilities. Current knowledge emphasizes the need for integrated approaches combining diagnosis, treatment with praziquantel and education. There are ongoing efforts to integrate FGS services into women’s sexual and reproductive services, yet to date many African countries lack programmatic guidance to achieve this. More comprehensive integration and mainstreaming of FGS prevention, control and treatment across various sectors is needed to ensure intersectoral collaboration and financing of programmes. This review examines the various intervention tools currently available to achieve FGS integration in health systems. These include water, sanitation and hygiene improvements, environmental management, health education and inclusion of preschool-aged children in national schistosomiasis control programmes. Highlighted are also the required diagnostic and therapeutic tools, preventive interventions, effective policy and sustainable funding, all integral to achieving comprehensive FGS mainstreaming. |
| Document Type: |
article in journal/newspaper |
| Language: |
English |
| DOI: |
10.1017/s0031182025100838 |
| Availability: |
https://doi.org/10.1017/s0031182025100838; https://www.cambridge.org/core/services/aop-cambridge-core/content/view/S0031182025100838 |
| Rights: |
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 |
| Accession Number: |
edsbas.57B666CE |
| Database: |
BASE |