Schistosomes, snails and climate change: Current trends and future expectations

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Parasitology
• Public Health

Background:

• Schistosomiasis affects over 250 million people globally, primarily in tropical and subtropical regions.
• The precise impact of climate change on schistosomiasis transmission dynamics remains largely unknown.
• Understanding these impacts is crucial for predicting disease spread and implementing control strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current knowledge on the relationship between climate change and schistosomiasis.
• To identify geographical variations and knowledge gaps in climate change-schistosomiasis research.
• To assess the potential future distribution of schistosomiasis under climate change scenarios.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a systematic review to identify studies on climate change impacts on schistosomiasis agents.
• Analyzed evidence on geographical distribution and thermo-physiological limitations of key schistosome species.
• Compared existing data with climate change models to predict potential range shifts.

Main Results:

• Limited quantitative studies exist, with most research focusing on potential impacts rather than predictions.
• Evidence is strongest for Schistosoma japonicum in China and Schistosoma mansoni in East Africa.
• Climate change is more likely to cause geographical shifts in schistosomiasis distribution than widespread expansion, with some species facing unfavorable thermal conditions.

Conclusions:

• Schistosomiasis transmission is sensitive to climate change, with potential range shifts and altered suitability.
• Species like Schistosoma haematobium may experience less favorable thermal environments in a warming Africa.
• Future research should focus on vulnerable regions and address existing knowledge gaps to improve disease control.