Unravelling the true biopsychosocial impact of schistosomiasis

Abstract Schistosomiasis remains a debilitating parasitic disease, with over 200 million people infected globally. Heavy, chronic infections cause severe morbidity and over 12 000 deaths a year. As diagnostics improve, we have a greater understanding of more accurate prevalences. However, how infections, including light-intensity infections, affect individuals' health and quality of life remains to be fully understood, particularly as specific markers of morbidity, disease progression, and resolution are lacking. We explore evidence about the true broader physical, psychological, economic, social, and environmental impacts of schistosomiasis, identifying critical gaps in understanding the interplay between infection, morbidity, and wellbeing, and propose innovative approaches to better capture true long-term disease impacts. We argue for more holistic frameworks to inform disease monitoring, intervention evaluation, and policy development.