Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Schistosomiasis Among Children in Northern Senegal

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is a highly prevalent parasitic disease in Senegal. The early symptoms are hematuria and dysuria. Children's comprehension of the disease is fundamental to preventing the infection. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge attitudes, and practices related to schistosomiasis among schoolchildren in 2 rural villages in Northern Senegal and to evaluate their impact on the disease. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Data about children's knowledge of schistosomiasis, behavior, and preventive measures were collected through a questionnaire. FINDINGS: Questionnaire responses from 575 schoolchildren were analyzed. Correct answers about risky behavior for schistosomiasis were associated with early symptoms (P = 0.010). Wearing shoes and washing hands with soap were associated with not having hematuria and dysuria (P = 0.007 and 0.049, respectively). Playing in rivers was associated with the aforementioned symptoms (P < 0.001). Children who had good knowledge of schistosomiasis reportedly did not have symptoms (P = 0.002). A logistic regression model showed that female sex (odds ratio = 0.35; P = 0.01) and attending a primary school (odds ratio = 0.13; P < 0.001) were significant predictors of a lower risk of the early symptoms of urinary schistosomiasis. CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed that the level of knowledge among children in North Senegal about the causes, transmission, prevention, and treatment of schistosomiasis warrants implementing educational intervention.