Evaluation of the Endemicity and Diagnostic Markers of Urogenital Schistosomiasis Among the “Seldom-Heard Groups in Atiba LGA, Oyo State, Nigeria

Background: Urogenital schistosomiasis (UGS) remains a major public health concern in Nigeria, particularly in peri-urban and rural communities with poor sanitation and frequent contact with natural water bodies. This study assessed the prevalence, intensity, and age-gender distribution of Schistosoma haematobium infection and associated urinary abnormalities across five under-represented communities in Atiba LGA, Oyo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based survey involved 239 residents of Alagbede, Alagbon, Asamu, Ojala, and Ile Titun. Urine samples were microscopically examined for S. haematobium eggs, tested for haematuria, proteinuria, and leukocyturia, and infection intensity classified as light (<50 eggs/10 mL) or heavy (≥50 eggs/10 mL) based on WHO egg count thresholds. Results: An overall UGS prevalence of 56.9% was recorded, with the highest proportions observed in the Alagbede community (69.6%). The overall mean intensity of infection was 64.04 ± 118.81 eggs/10 mL of urine. Females had a slightly higher overall prevalence (58.9%) compared to males (55.7%) (p > 0.05). Across all communities, the 10–17-year age group had the highest prevalence (78.7%) of infection and mean intensity of infection (87.62 ± 163.29 eggs/10 mL), indicating infection to be age-specific. Urinary abnormalities, including haematuria (42.3%), proteinuria (41.8%), and leukocyturia (22.6%), were commonly detected among infected individuals, particularly those with heavy infection intensities. Bulinus truncatus was found only in Asamu, where all the collected snails (100%) shed furcocercous cercariae. Conclusion: This study revealed that UGS remains a serious public health concern in the study area, with school-aged children bearing the greatest burden. The associated urinary abnormalities observed underline the potential long-term health consequences of untreated infections. These findings reinforce the urgent need for sustained and integrated control measures, including improved access to clean water and sanitation, community-based health education, and regular preventive chemotherapy. Strengthening these interventions in endemic communities is key to reducing transmission, safeguarding child health, and moving closer to the elimination of schistosomiasis. This study provides novel epidemiological data on UGS in Atiba LGA, Oyo State, filling a knowledge gap by documenting prevalence, infection intensity, and associated urinary abnormalities in the communities.