Dam Construction and Schistosomiasis

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that leads to poor health outcomes and negative socioeconomic impacts. It is estimated to have a burden of 1.9 million disability-adjusted life years globally. Prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, it is caused by a parasitic worm that penetrates the skin through water transmission. Chronic and reinfections can lead to lifelong complications, such as liver damage, stunting of growth and development, and an increased risk for bladder cancer. There are several risk factors for schistosomiasis, including poor sanitation, access to clean water sources, living and working near freshwater rivers, and knowledge about the disease. Developmental water projects, such as the creation of dams, can also become a significant risk factor. Dams increase breeding grounds for freshwater snails, which serve as the parasite’s intermediate hosts, and stop the migration of prawns that prey on these snails into rivers. These factors then increase the chances of exposure to the parasite, thus leading to higher cases of human infection. An integrated collaborative approach through ongoing environmental and disease surveillance, coupled with enhanced sanitation and hygiene provision and health education, is vital to reduce the negative consequences that dams can pose on the prevalence of schistosomiasis.