Urinary Schistosomiasis and Its Related Anaemia among Children in a High Risk Community in Ghana

Background: Urinary schistosomiasis is a disease of great public health importance and remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality among children globally. The disease, which is often characterized by painful urination and haematuria is common among children living in communities near dams. In this study, urinary schistosomiasis and its related anaemia among children in a community near the Weija dam in Accra, Ghana was investigated.

Methodology: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 100 children of age range 4-12 years living in the Weija community of Ghana. Urine and blood samples were collected from the study participants for laboratory analyses. Urine samples were tested for haematuria, proteinuria and the S. haematobium ova. Full blood counts of anticoagulated blood samples were estimated by Sysmex 2000i-XE haematology analyzer to determine anaemia in children. Demographic and clinical data of the study participants were obtained by use of a structured questionnaire.

Results: The 100 children who participated in the study had a mean age of 12.12± 1.8 years, and comprised of 62 males and 38 females. More than half of the study participants (76%) tested positive for urinary schistosomiasis. Infection was significantly associated with sex (p=0.007) and age (p<0.001). Out of those infected, 68.4% were anaemic and a significant relationship was observed between infection and anaemia (p= 0.046). Most of the children (95%) had ever visited water contact sites for swimming, washing or fetching water for domestic use.

Conclusion: Our study shows a high prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis infection and its association with anaemia among the studied subjects in the Weija community. Mass drug administration for treatment, aggressive health education, regular screening and other relevant interventions are urgently needed in this community.