@article{102130,
  keywords = { Schistosoma  haematobium, Schistosomiasis , School-aged children, Risk factors, Cameroon, WASH},
  author = {Djakissam W and Menga H and Abange W and Akame S and Dama P and Alembong E and Nsagha D},
  title = {Prevalence of Urinary Schistosomiasis and Associated Factors Amongst School  Aged Children in Tiko (South West Region of Cameroon)},
  abstract = {<p><strong>Background:&nbsp;</strong>Schistosomiasis remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, disproportionately affecting school-aged children due to environmental exposure and limited access to safe water. Schistosoma haematobium infection, a leading cause of urogenital schistosomiasis, is perpetuated by water-contact behaviors and poor sanitation. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of S. haematobium infection and identify associated risk factors among school-aged children in Tiko, Cameroon.</p>

<p><strong>Methods:</strong>&nbsp;A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Government Primary School Likomba. Participants (n=288; 56% male, 44% female; mean age 11.4 years) provided socio-demographic, behavioral, and clinical data via structured questionnaires. Urine samples were analyzed microscopically for S. haematobium eggs. Multivariate logistic regression was used to assess risk factors, with significance set at p&lt;0.05.</p>

<p><strong>Results:&nbsp;</strong>The prevalence of S. haematobium infection was 20.83% (60/288). Key risk factors included frequent bathing in streams (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=18.71;; p&lt;0.001), performing domestic chores in streams (aOR=5.64; p&lt;0.001), drinking untreated stream water (aOR=3.85; p=0.002), open defecation in streams (p&lt;0.001), and limited knowledge of schistosomiasis transmission (p&lt;0.001).</p>

<p><strong>Conclusion:</strong> High exposure to contaminated water sources and inadequate health literacy significantly drive S. haematobium transmission in this population. Targeted interventions—including community health education, improved access to safe water, and school-based deworming programs—are urgently needed to mitigate infection risks. These findings underscore the critical role of integrated water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives in schistosomiasis control in endemic regions.</p>
},
  year = {2025},
  journal = {Health Research in Africa},
  pages = {6},
  url = {https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Watching-Djakissam-2/publication/390645932_Prevalence_of_Urinary_Schistosomiasis_and_Associated_Factors_Amongst_School_Aged_Children_in_Tiko_South_West_Region_of_Cameroon_Prevalence_de_la_Schistosomiase_Urinaire_et_Fac},
  language = {ENG},
}