Knowledge and Awareness of Female Genital Schistosomiasis among Primary and Secondary Healthcare Personnel in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) is a neglected tropical disease caused by an infection with Schistosoma haematobium. Although prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is a leading cause of severe reproductive health complications, the condition remains underdiagnosed. A study was carried out to assess the awareness of primary and secondary healthcare workers in Nasarawa State on the diagnosis and management of FGS, using a descriptive cross-sectional survey. The survey targeted healthcare personnel from both Secondary Health Facilities (SHFs) and Primary Health Facilities (PHFs), including medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists, laboratory scientists, community health extension workers (CHEWs), and laboratory technicians. Stratified random sampling technique was employed, with healthcare professionals stratified based on the level of their health facilities. Results showed that healthcare workers in secondary healthcare facilities demonstrated significantly higher awareness and understanding of FGS (90.00%) compared to those in primary health facilities (74.00%) (P<0.05). Furthermore, 73.00% of respondents from the secondary health facilities correctly identified diagnostic criteria for FGS, compared to only 22.00% of the Primary Health workers. Treatment knowledge and experience were also significantly greater among respondents from the secondary health facilities. These findings reveal that, while FGS awareness is relatively high in secondary facilities, critical diagnostic and management gaps exist at the primary care level. Addressing these frontline deficiencies through capacity building is essential to reduce the regional burden of this neglected disease.