Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Urinary Schistosomiasis in Al Managil City, Gezira State, Sudan: A Cross‐Sectional Study

ABSTRACT Background and Aims Urinary schistosomiasis has remained one of the most important public health issues in Sudan, especially in regions like Gezira State, which relies on irrigation schemes. Despite control activities, morbidity from schistosomiasis in these regions remains a challenge, therefore updated prevalence data are important for proper planning of control strategies. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence and associated socio‐demographic and behavioral risk factors of urinary schistosomiasis among individuals attending healthcare facilities in Al Managil, Gezira State, Sudan. Methods A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted in Al‐Managil city, Gezira State, from August 2022 to June 2023. A total of 212 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Urine examination was performed microscopically for the presence of eggs of Schistosoma haematobium . Data on socio‐demographic, environmental, and behavioral factors were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23. The Chi‐square test was used to assess associations between urinary schistosomiasis and its risk factors. p ‐value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results The prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis was 29.7% (63/212). The prevalence was significantly higher among males and rural residents, individuals with low educational level, and farmers ( p < 0.05). Proximity to water source, use of non‐sanitary toilets, bathing, swimming in water, and water contact were also significantly associated with urinary schistosomiasis ( p < 0.05). Significant associations between urinary schistosomiasis and its symptoms, like hematuria, dysuria, frequency, itching, and urticaria, were also found. Urinary schistosomiasis was not significantly associated with other factors like age, fever, and weight loss. Conclusion Urinary schistosomiasis transmission still persists in Al Managil city despite the ongoing control efforts. Male gender, rural residence, poor sanitary conditions, and unsafe behavior concerning water sources have shown to be the significant risk factors for the transmission of the disease. Health education, sanitary conditions, and unsafe water sources need to be addressed to reinforce the continued efforts for the control of the disease.