Three actions that may handle FGS
Coaching well being employees to diagnose FGS
In response to Olubunmi Babatola, a gynaecologist who was concerned in our analysis in Nigeria, it’s necessary to offer coaching in order that well being employees in any respect ranges can recognise the indicators of the illness.
“FGS can simply be recognized, and even the least-skilled individuals within the well being care system can diagnose it,” Olubunmi says. “Well being employees also needs to know that therapy with remedy is on the market.”
Integrating testing into different well being programmes
We have to improve the variety of ladies and ladies who’re being examined for FGS. Among the best methods to do that is by together with FGS testing alongside different types of therapy.
Adesugba Abigeal, a well being employee in Nigeria, informed us: “it’s necessary to combine FGS screening when treating different ailments reminiscent of HIV, and the human papilloma virus (HPV).”
“It’s additionally necessary to mix FGS with different programmes occurring within the well being centres, reminiscent of household planning and well being schooling. […] When ladies take their kids to the hospital, we are able to check them and know whether or not they have the illness.”
Our analysis has indicated different ways in which well being methods might take a extra joined-up strategy. Many nations are already working large-scale programmes to deal with schistosomiasis, but these are usually targeted on stopping kids from contracting the illness. Our examine means that these programmes might additionally act as a platform for elevating consciousness of FGS.
Bettering water, sanitation and hygiene
Ladies and ladies usually contract the parasite that causes FGS after coming involved with contaminated floor water. The illness might be deadly if left untreated for a chronic time frame. We want governments and worldwide NGOs to work collectively to offer clear water and sanitation amenities for communities affected by the illness, in order to scale back their contact with infested water.
We additionally want to coach individuals in these communities about why they shouldn’t drink from, bathe in, or wash garments in sure dangerous water sources.