By Danielle Johnson

Schistosomiasis (SCH) is one neglected tropical disease (NTD) endemic in Niger. SCH ranks second, only to malaria, as the most common parasitic disease and is the most deadly NTD, killing an estimated 280,000 people each year in Africa alone. Worldwide, more than 207 million people are infected, with approximately 85% of all cases found in Sub-Saharan Africa.

People become infected with SCH after coming into contact with water contaminated with schistosoma parasites while bathing or swimming in fresh water, or while performing chores, such as washing laundry or fetching water. Access to safe water and improved sanitation significantly reduces the likelihood of exposure and transmission, as SCH is spread by the practice of open defecation and the subsequent exposure to contaminated bodies of water.

Complications and symptoms of SCH are a result of the body’s reaction to the parasites’ eggs, which can build up in the intestine or bladder, causing inflammation or scarring. The parasites’ eggs can damage the bladder and kidneys which often results in painful urination, blood in the urine and abdominal pain. Damage to the liver can make the abdomen swell and protrude, resulting in a classic sign of infection. Chronic SCH increases the risk of bladder cancer and can lead to irreversible infertility. In children, infection can cause anemia, malnutrition and learning difficulties.

The medication Praziquantel can be used to effectively control the disease, and costs roughly 8 cents per tablet. Safe water, adequate sanitation and snail control enhance the control of transmission in endemic areas, like Niger.

Most people understand that access to safe water and improved sanitation will make communities healthier. Few, however, understand how dangerous unsafe water and poor sanitation can be. Unsafe water kills 1.4 million people a year – 90% are children. 80% of all childhood disease in the developing world can be linked to unsafe water and poor sanitation.

Water is life. Water is health. Every day, close to 1,600 children die from diarrhea caused by unsafe water, poor sanitation and improper hygiene – more than from AIDS and malaria combined. Wells Bring Hope is working to change these staggering statistics, one well at a time. The World Health Organization has reported that no other humanitarian intervention produces a more dramatic effect on life than access to safe water and sanitation.

(Photo Credit: Global Network Neglected Tropical Disease)

Save