Multivariate approach to risk factors profiling of urinary schistosomiasis in Ase-Niger River catchment, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

Schistosomiasis poses a significant morbidity and socio-economic challenges in tropical and sub-tropical regions. This longitudinal study, employed urine filtration techniques and questionnaires to profile the risk factors of urogenital schistosomiasis (UgS) in the Ase-Niger River catchment, Delta State. The results of this study revealed variations in prevalence based on the water source whose impact was significantly (p < 0.05, df = 2; F = 46.57) across study sites. The peak prevalence associated with rivers/canals was obtained at Iyede-Ame (38.90 %). The high variance explained by the principal component (PC1: 3.0826) suggests that river/canal were the most significant component in explaining the prevalence variability. Furthermore, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) suggests that the risk of wadding in water contribute strongly to PC1. Swimming was linked with prevalence ranging from 8.06 % (Awah) to 15.89 % (Ase), while fishing showed prevalence of 6.52 % (Ashaka) to 13.38 % (Ase). Water-contact engagements such as bathing/swimming, fishing, washing, fetching water, wadding and urinating were identified significant factors (p < 0.05) influencing UgS prevalence across study sites. The results also revealed the links between reasons for water visitation and PC1, where swimming accounts for the highest loading (2.7687) and an eigenvalue of 143.76. Socio-economic, educational and occupational risk-factors were also significant (p < 0.05). In PC1, analphabetic had a strong negative association (-9.457) with schistosomiasis. Higher educational attainment had a positive association, albeit to a lesser extent on UgS. Similarly, fishing occupation has a strong positive association (12.939) with PC1, while the Civil servant occupation has a strong negative association (-18.01) with PC1 suggesting that individuals who engaged in fishing are more likely to exhibit schistosomiasis. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, including improved sanitation, access to clean water, health education, and mass drug administration programs particularly in the Ase-Niger River catchments of Delta State.

Keywords

• Schistosomiasis
• Risk factors
• PCA
• Ase River
• Niger River