Community-based study of risk factors, knowledge, and symptoms associated with Schistosoma haematobium infection and female genital schistosomiasis in Kogi State, Nigeria

Schistosoma haematobium, the parasite responsible for urogenital schistosomiasis poses a significant yet under-recognized risk to female reproductive health, particularly through Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS). Despite its serious public health implications, FGS remains poorly understood, underdiagnosed, and neglected. This community-based study was conducted between June and November 2024 across 13 communities across Ajaokuta, Lokoja, and Kogi LGAs of Kogi State, Nigeria to assess socio-demographics, risk factors, community knowledge, and symptoms of S. haematobium and FGS via structured questionnaires and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. A total of 686 females aged 15–49 years participated. The majority of respondents were under 40 years, with 42.7% having secondary-level education and 89.6% reported low incomes. Over 60% engaged in high-risk behaviors such as reliance on river water, frequent freshwater contact, open defecation, and poor sanitation. Community awareness was low as only 14.3% knew about S.haematobium and just 4.1% were aware of FGS. Also 88.8% believed FGS to be untreatable or unpreventable. No FGS-specific diagnostic or treatment services were available in the surveyed communities. Commonly reported symptoms included genital itching (59.8%), abnormal vaginal discharge (54.2%), abdominal pain (50.7%), and painful urination (38.9%), with higher symptom prevalence in Lokoja and Kogi LGAs suggesting potential FGS hotspots. The study revealed significant knowledge gaps, high-risk behaviors, and a lack of healthcare infrastructure. Targeted interventions such as health education, improved water and sanitation and the establishment of FGSspecific diagnostic and treatment services are urgently needed, particularly in high-risk areas.