Risk Factors Associated with Urinary Schistosomiasis and its Spatial Distribution Among Almajirai in Selected Localities in Katsina State, Nigeria

Background and Objective: Urinary schistosomiasis is endemic to Nigeria and is attributable to poverty, particularly in resource-constrained populations. This study assessed the prevalence and risk factors of urinary schistosomiasis among Almajirai in Tsangaya schools (TS) in Safana, Dutsin-Ma and Kurfi Towns of Katsina State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted across thirteen TS from June to September, 2023. Urine samples were tested for the ova of Schistosoma haematobium using the centrifugation technique and generated datasets were analyzed using SPSS (p<0.05) and Chi-square tests to test for association. Results: Of the 514 samples examined from 13 TS, 35.6% (183/514) were positive for the ova of S. haematobium. Dutsin-Ma Town had the highest prevalence of 46.5% (80/172) among the three municipalities studied. In comparison, the 16-20 years age group had the highest prevalence of 40.5% (15/37) among the age groups and the highest prevalence among the TS surveyed occurred in Mallam Hamza TS (60.7%). In contrast, Mallam Audu TS had the lowest prevalence (6.9%). Those in contact with large water bodies had a prevalence of 36.3% (127/350) and participants with hematuria recorded a higher prevalence (49.7%) than those who never passed blood in urine (17.1%). Predisposing risk factors for infection included age group (χ = 50.6220, p = 0.0000) and was significantly associated with hematuria (χ= 58.2460, p = 0.0000). Conclusion: The study localities were classified as moderate-risk areas (<50) for urinary schistosomiasis. Risk factors included contact with water bodies, age and lack of prior praziquantel treatment. To prevent further transmission, improved environmental sanitation, Almajirai’s mass deworming programs, access to clean water and public education on disease prevention and hygiene are recommended.