Comparative prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among pregnant Women in overbank and inland communities of Ghana, 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease of major public health concern in Ghana, especially in riverine overbank communities. Pregnant women in these areas are particularly vulnerable, yet data comparing their infection burden to inland counterparts are limited. This study aimed to determine and compare the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among pregnant women from overbank and inland communities attending antenatal care (ANC) in the Oti Region, and to assess water-contact behaviors associated with infection risk. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in August 2025 at a Health Facility within the Oti Region. Sixty pregnant women were enrolled, 30 from overbank communities and 30 from inland communities, individually matched by age (±5 years) and gestational trimester. Urine samples were collected and examined for Schistosoma haematobium using filtration and microscopy. A structured questionnaire captured socio-demographics and detailed water-contact behaviors. Prevalence and exposure patterns were compared between groups. Results: Overall prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 16.7% (10/60). Infection was higher among overbank women (26.7%, 8/30) than inland women (6.7%, 2/30). Routine river water use for laundry, bathing, and domestic purposes was reported by 83% of overbank participants compared to 27% of inland participants. Inland residents more commonly relied on borehole or piped water. Conclusion: Pregnant women in overbank communities are at substantially higher risk of urinary schistosomiasis, largely due to frequent river-water contact. Enhancing safe water access and integrating schistosomiasis screening into ANC services in high-risk areas are critical to protecting maternal and fetal health.