Community-based approach to schistosomiasis control

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology

Background:

• Schistosomiasis control traditionally relies on external support, often neglecting sustainable community-led initiatives.
• Urinary schistosomiasis is hyperendemic in Kaele subdivision, Cameroon, necessitating effective, integrated control strategies.
• Existing community structures were leveraged to foster self-sufficiency in disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and integrate a sustainable urinary schistosomiasis control program within the primary healthcare (PHC) system.
• To build community capacity for ongoing disease control with minimal external resource dependence.
• To evaluate the impact of community-based interventions on schistosomiasis prevalence, intensity, and health service utilization.

Main Methods:

• Implemented culturally appropriate health education at the community level.
• Developed local capacity for schistosomiasis diagnosis and treatment.
• Ensured convenient and low-cost access to diagnosis and praziquantel therapy.
• Integrated control efforts within the existing PHC system and community structures.
• Assessed impact through changes in knowledge, behavior, infection rates, and health service use.

Main Results:

• Successful integration of schistosomiasis control into the PHC system.
• Demonstrated increased community capacity for disease management and treatment.
• Achieved measurable reductions in infection prevalence and intensity.
• Showcased the feasibility of a cost-recovery system for sustained control efforts.

Conclusions:

• Community-centered approaches enhance the sustainability of schistosomiasis control programs.
• Integrating disease control into PHC strengthens local health systems and capacity.
• Building on existing community structures is crucial for long-term success.
• The Kaele program offers a replicable model for sustainable schistosomiasis elimination efforts.