Abstract
BACKGROUND: Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) is a debilitating neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by the parasite Schistosoma haematobium. In Ghana, FGS is endemic, especially in communities around Lake Volta. Despite the vulnerability of women in these communities, limited literature exists on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). This study assessed KAP regarding FGS among women living in communities along the Volta Lake. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a multistage sampling technique to recruit women aged 18 years and above. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were computed, and logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with KAP. Variables with log-likelihood ratio p-value ≤0.2 in univariable analysis were included in multivariable models. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. RESULTS: A total of 745 women were recruited. The mean age was 33 years (SD = 12.28), with the majority (36.4%) aged 21-30 years. Overall, 454 (60.9%) had poor knowledge of FGS, 446 (59.8%) had good attitudes, and 460 (61.7%) had poor practices. Women with good attitudes were significantly more likely to have good knowledge (aOR=4.67, 95% CI: 3.23-6.75, p < 0.001). Those with secondary education were more likely to have good attitudes (aOR=2.28, 95% CI: 1.16-4.40, p = 0.017) compared to those with no formal education. Women with good knowledge were also more likely to report good practices (aOR=1.42, 95% CI: 1.01-1.98, p = 0.041). Women residing in North Tongu were more likely to have good attitude (aOR=2.79, 95% CI: 1.68-4.63, p < 0.001) but poor practices (aOR=0.59, 95% CI: 0.36-0.97, p = 0.039). CONCLUSION: Despite relatively good attitudes, women in FGS-endemic communities around the Volta Lake showed poor knowledge and practices. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted health education, awareness campaigns and integrating FGS into already existing sexual and reproductive health programs to improve community knowledge and practices. These will contribute toward achieving the 2030 NTD targets under Sustainable Development Goal 3.