Prevalence and Risk Factors of Urinary Schistosomiasis Among Children Living Near Streams in Kpakungu, Fadukpe, and Chanchaga area of Minna, Niger State

Abstract

Background: Urinary schistosomiasis, caused by Schistosoma haematobium, is a significant waterborne diseasepredominantly affecting children in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aims to assess the prevalence and associated riskfactors of urinary schistosomiasis among children living near streams in the Kpakungu, Fadukpe, and Chanchaga areasof Minna, Niger State.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 200 school-aged children (3-15 years) from Kpakungu,Fadukpe, and Chanchaga municipal areas. Urine samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of S.haematobium eggs using standard diagnostic techniques, including wet preparation, sedimentation, and filtrationmethods. Data were stratified based on age, sex, and geographical location, and statistical analysis was performedusing SPSS version 24, with significance set at P<0.05.Results: The overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 15%. Age-specific prevalence showed 0% in childrenunder 6 years, 5% in those aged 6-10 years, and 10% in those aged 11-15 years. Males had a significantly higherprevalence (13%) compared to females (2%). Geographically, Kpakungu had the highest prevalence (8%), followedby Chanchaga (4%) and Fadukpe (3%).Conclusion: The study highlights a moderate prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among children in Minna, withhigher risks associated with male gender and proximity to streams. Interventions focusing on improved water accessand targeted health education are essential to reduce the burden of the disease.Keywords: Urinary schistosomiasis, Schistosoma haematobium, prevalence, children, Minna, Niger State, riskfactors, public health