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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Charline S. Han, MS, BS, David M. Gute, PhD, MPH, BA, and John L. Durant, PhD, MS, BS. Civil and Environmental Engineering, Tufts University, 113 Anderson Hall, Medford, MA 02155, 847-975-3436, charline.han@gmail.com

Background. Kwabeng, Ghana has experienced increased rates of urinary schistosomiasis (Schistosoma haematobium) since the onset of surface gold mining activities in the early 1990s. The mining has hydraulically altered the Awusu River and thereby created habitats favorable to intermediate host Bulinus snails. This study examines the potential risk factors associated with schistosomiasis in Kwabeng.

Methods. Written surveys were administered to 11 and 12-year-olds (N = 345) at the five primary schools in Kwabeng in June 2005. In addition, urine samples were collected from 100 randomly selected students (20 per school) and examined microscopically for schistosome eggs. The results of the urinalyses were used to measure the validity of the surveys as a tool for self-diagnosis. Treatment (praziquantel, 20 mg/kg weight) was given to students found to be infected as determined by either urinalysis or survey results.

Results. Mean prevalence of infection was 40.5%. At individual schools, prevalence ranged from 25.6% to 63.2%. Several risk factors for infection were determined, including male gender, frequency of contact and recreation in the Awusu River, and specific water collection and recreation locations. Based on odds ratio point estimates, the highest risk factors for infection included specific river contact locations and river recreational habits. Of the 274 participants, 111 were given medical treatment.

Conclusion. The results of this study show that the risk of infection increases with regular recreation at specific river locations. This knowledge could be used to inform intervention strategies for sustainable schistosomiasis control in Kwabeng.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Identify the life cycle, routes of transmission, risk factors, and possible control measures for schistosomiasis.
• Conceptualize the problem of schistosomiasis, with respect to gold mining in the local context of Kwabeng, Ghana
• Recognize the need for more sustainable and primary prevention methods, including selected engineering interventions, for the control of schistosomiasis.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered