Thesis Abstract

Intestinal schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by the trematode Schistosoma species that primarily affects the intestines. It is a major public health concern in many tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where access to clean water and sanitation is limited. The main species responsible for intestinal schistosomiasis are Schistosoma mansoni and Schistosoma japonicum. Transmission occurs through contact with contaminated freshwater sources infested with the intermediate host snails that release the infective larvae. The impact of intestinal schistosomiasis on human health is significant, with chronic infections leading to various complications such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nutritional deficiencies. Severe cases can result in liver and spleen enlargement, fibrosis, and portal hypertension. The chronic inflammatory response to the parasite eggs deposited in the intestinal wall contributes to the pathogenesis of the disease. Preventive measures play a crucial role in the control of intestinal schistosomiasis. Strategies such as improving access to safe water sources, promoting hygiene practices, and providing adequate sanitation facilities can help reduce the risk of infection. Mass drug administration with praziquantel is the cornerstone of schistosomiasis control programs, targeting at-risk populations in endemic areas to reduce the parasite burden and prevent complications. In addition to preventive measures, ongoing research is focused on the development of new tools for the control of intestinal schistosomiasis. Vaccines targeting different stages of the parasite life cycle are being investigated as a potential intervention strategy. Research efforts also aim to identify novel drug targets and improve diagnostic techniques for early detection and treatment of infections. Community engagement and education are essential components of successful schistosomiasis control programs. Empowering communities through health education initiatives can raise awareness about the disease, promote preventive practices, and encourage treatment-seeking behavior. Collaboration between governments, non-governmental organizations, and international partners is crucial for sustaining control efforts and achieving the goal of eliminating intestinal schistosomiasis as a public health problem. In conclusion, intestinal schistosomiasis remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in areas with poor access to water and sanitation. Prevention through water, sanitation, and hygiene interventions, along with mass drug administration programs, is essential for controlling the disease burden. Continued investment in research and innovative approaches is needed to advance the prevention and control strategies for intestinal schistosomiasis and ultimately improve the health and well-being of affected populations.

Thesis Overview

INTRODUCTION

 

• DESCRIPTION OF SCHISTOMIASIS

Schistosomiasis, also known as bilharzia, snail fever, and Katayama fever, is a disease caused by parasiticflatworms of the Schistosomatype. The urinary tract or the intestines may be infected. Signs and symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea,(Akpinar, 2012). Bloody stool, or blood in the urine. In those who have been infected a long time, liver damage, kidney failure, infertility, or bladder cancer may occur. In children, it may cause poor growth and learning difficulty(Antounet al., 2005).

 

The disease is spread by contact with fresh water contaminated with the parasites. These parasites are released from infected freshwater snails. The disease is especially common among children in developing countries as they are more likely to play in contaminated water(Akpinar, 2012). Other high risk groups include farmers, fishermen, and people using unclean water during daily living. It belongs

 

to the group of helminth infections. Diagnosis is by finding eggs of the parasite in a person’s urine or stool. It can also be confirmed by finding antibodies against the disease in the blood(Duke, 2002).

 

Methods to prevent the disease include improving access to clean water and reducing the number of snails.(Duke,.2002) In areas where the disease is common, the medication praziquantel may be given once a year to the entire group. This is done to decrease the number of people infected and, consequently, the spread of the disease. Praziquantel is also the treatment recommended by the World Health Organization(WHO) for those who are known to be infected(Akpinar, 2012)..

 

(Antounet al., 2005) Schistosomiasis affected almost 210 million people worldwide as of 2012. An estimated 12,000 to 200,000 people die from it each year. The disease is most commonly found in Africa, as well as Asia and South America. Around 700 million people, in more than 70 countries, live in areas where the disease is common. In tropical countries, schistosomiasis is second only to malaria among parasitic diseases with the greatest economic impact. Schistosomiasis is listed as a neglected tropical disease(Akpinar, 2012).

1.1 STUDY AREA

This study was carried out at START RIGHT MODEL SCHOOL Sango Ota Ogun State Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area. Schistosomiasis is noticed at this area of Ogun State Nigeria and some neighboring areas including Ado-Odo, Owode, and e.t.c. This is as a result of some factor like;

• Poor drainage system
• Poor waste disposal
• Over flooding etc.

1.2 PURPOSE OF STUDY

This study focuses on creating awareness to citizen of Sango Ota Ogun State AdoOdo Ota Local Government Area on the presences of intestinal schistosomiasis and its possible prevention and control.

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of this study is to identify the presences of intestinal schistosomiasis and its possible prevention and control at Sango Ota Ogun State Ado Odo Ota Local Government Area.

1.4 SCOPE OF STUDY

This research focuses on the prevalence of intestinal Schistosomiasis among pupils in START RIGHT MODELSCHOOL Sango Ota Ogun State AdoOdo Ota Local Government Area and possible prevention and control method.

1.5 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

Some of the limitation faced in the course of carrying out this project is:

• Illiteracy of parent in the area
• Poor finance
• Difficulty in the collection of sample

1.6 DEFINITION OF TERM

 

Helminths: are large multicellular organisms, which when mature can generally be seen with the naked eye. They are often referred to as intestinal worms even though not all helminths reside in the intestines; for example schistosomes are not intestinal worms, but rather reside in blood vessels.

 

Phylogeny: The phylogenetic relationships of the nematodes and their close relatives among the protostomianMetazoa are unresolved.

 

Mutualism:a relationship between two species of organisms in which both benefit from the association.

Commensalism:   A type of relationship between two species of a plant, animal, fungus, etc., in which one lives with, on, or in another without damage to either.

Parasitism: arelationbetweenorganismsinwhichonelivesasaparasiteonanother

 

Helminthology:Helminthology is the study of parasitic worms (helminths), while helminthiasis describes the medical condition of being infected with helminths.