Researchers Advocate for Integration of Female Genital Schistosomiasis into Maternal Health Agenda

According to ghana news agency:ay WINGS-4-FGS kickoff meeting at UHAS's main campus in Ho, Prof. Gyapong explained how researchers are working to unveil the disease and provide diagnostic and surveillance tools to manage FGS effectively. The project is focused on addressing the urgent needs related to female genital schistosomiasis in several African countries, including Ghana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Côte D'Ivoire, Malawi, Madagascar, and Rwanda. It seeks to improve case management, therapeutic access, and integrate FGS care within Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) strategies. Prof. Gyapong noted that while FGS is a significant health issue, it has been under-researched and misunderstood. However, recent research is paving the way for better treatment and potential eradication. Prof. Amaya Boustendoui from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine highlighted the necessity of developing an integrated approach that combines multiple workstreams to tackle FGS effectively. She stressed t he importance of raising awareness and educating healthcare workers and community members to improve early detection and reduce stigma. Prof. Boustendoui also emphasized the need for innovative diagnostic tools to enhance the detection of FGS, particularly in resource-limited settings. The research strategy includes conducting clinical trials in Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Malawi. Prof. Boustendoui pointed out the serious health risks FGS poses to women and girls, including reproductive health issues such as infertility and difficulty in conception. The disease is often mistaken for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), leading to misdiagnosis and mistreatment, which can result in social stigma and exclusion. Dr. Maxwell Dalaba, Acting Director of IHR, envisions the Institute as a global research leader in health and allied sciences. He outlined the various research centers within the Institute, including those focused on Non-Communicable Diseases, Neglected Tropical Diseas es, and Health Policy. Dr. Dalaba mentioned ongoing research projects like the Sustainable Access and Delivery of New Vaccines in Ghana (SAVING) study, which aims to build capacity for the effective delivery and uptake of new medical interventions. Prof. Frank Edwin, Pro Vice Chancellor of UHAS, shared an example of a rare incidence where an autopsy revealed cardiac schistosomiasis, underscoring the importance of comprehensive diagnosis. He commended the researchers and partners for their efforts in advancing the discourse on FGS. The WINGS-4-FGS project, co-funded by the European Union, EDCTP 3, and the Swiss Confederation, aims to achieve significant outcomes, including the development of new diagnostic tools, improved treatment protocols, and widespread awareness and education. The project also seeks to empower women living with FGS and train healthcare professionals and community members to ensure sustainable outcomes.