Perceptions and compliance with schistosomiasis treatment: exploring drug side effects and motivation for medication use
1
Center for Neglected Tropical Diseases, University of Health and Allied Sciences, HO, Ghana
Popul. Med. 2026;8(Supplement Supplement 1):
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND:
The global effort to eliminate schistosomiasis hinges on the success of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns using praziquantel (PZQ). Despite the availability of this effective drug, achieving high compliance remains a major obstacle in many endemic areas. This persistent problem indicates that standard MDA protocols are failing to overcome local barriers, thereby undermining progress towards the World Health Organization's 2030 elimination goals
AIM:
This study addresses the critical gap between drug provision and community uptake by exploring the local factors that shape treatment behaviours.
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative study was conducted in Dzidzokope and Abome (Ghana). Twenty participants were conveniently selected based on the principle of theoretical saturation and in-depth interviews were conducted with them. Verbatim transcripts were analysed thematically using a deductive approach in MAXQDA (24.4.1).
RESULTS:
Three main themes emerged: (1) Compliance drivers including peer testimony, institutional trust (health workers/teachers), perceived protection, health education, and free drug access; (2) Perceptions and side-effects, with communities largely recognizing schistosomiasis as water-borne and described common praziquantel reactions (dizziness, abdominal pain, vomiting), often viewed as transient; (3) Intervention preferences - respondents recommended posters, trusted distributors, door-to-door delivery, appropriate timing, demonstrations or testimonies, follow-up visits, and environmental measures to reduce exposure.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study shows that compliance with praziquantel in Dzidzokope and Abome is shaped by a combination of social influence, trust in health authorities, perceived benefits, and concerns about side-effects. While many community members are motivated by protection from disease and positive testimonies, fear of adverse reactions, misinformation, and logistical barriers continue to hinder uptake. Strengthening community-centred education, addressing side-effect concerns transparently, involving trusted local figures, and improving the timing and delivery of MDA can significantly enhance participation. Tailored, culturally grounded interventions are essential for improving treatment adherence and advancing schistosomiasis control efforts in similar endemic communities.
The global effort to eliminate schistosomiasis hinges on the success of mass drug administration (MDA) campaigns using praziquantel (PZQ). Despite the availability of this effective drug, achieving high compliance remains a major obstacle in many endemic areas. This persistent problem indicates that standard MDA protocols are failing to overcome local barriers, thereby undermining progress towards the World Health Organization's 2030 elimination goals
AIM:
This study addresses the critical gap between drug provision and community uptake by exploring the local factors that shape treatment behaviours.
METHODS:
An exploratory qualitative study was conducted in Dzidzokope and Abome (Ghana). Twenty participants were conveniently selected based on the principle of theoretical saturation and in-depth interviews were conducted with them. Verbatim transcripts were analysed thematically using a deductive approach in MAXQDA (24.4.1).
RESULTS:
Three main themes emerged: (1) Compliance drivers including peer testimony, institutional trust (health workers/teachers), perceived protection, health education, and free drug access; (2) Perceptions and side-effects, with communities largely recognizing schistosomiasis as water-borne and described common praziquantel reactions (dizziness, abdominal pain, vomiting), often viewed as transient; (3) Intervention preferences - respondents recommended posters, trusted distributors, door-to-door delivery, appropriate timing, demonstrations or testimonies, follow-up visits, and environmental measures to reduce exposure.
CONCLUSIONS:
This study shows that compliance with praziquantel in Dzidzokope and Abome is shaped by a combination of social influence, trust in health authorities, perceived benefits, and concerns about side-effects. While many community members are motivated by protection from disease and positive testimonies, fear of adverse reactions, misinformation, and logistical barriers continue to hinder uptake. Strengthening community-centred education, addressing side-effect concerns transparently, involving trusted local figures, and improving the timing and delivery of MDA can significantly enhance participation. Tailored, culturally grounded interventions are essential for improving treatment adherence and advancing schistosomiasis control efforts in similar endemic communities.
| eISSN: | 2654-1459 |
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