Adult pathogens of schistosomiasis in a dish

    Fighting Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) From Neglect to Action: Invest in Health, Invest in Women

    It is estimated that female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) affects up to 56 million girls and women worldwide. This infection, which is caused by a parasite, is one of the so-called neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). It is caused by flatworms, also known as flukes, and leads to grave gynaecological problems, severely impacting the health and also the economic and social opportunities of the women affected by FGS. The Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) is launching an initiative to accelerate progress in the international fight against FGS.

    Life cycle of Schistosoma mansoni

    Explained in brief Schistosomiasis and genital schistosomiasis

    With its initiative From Neglect to Action: Invest in Health, Invest in Women, the BMZ is building on its existing activities related to neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). The goal is to create more awareness of genital schistosomiasis and mobilise more resources for fighting this disease. The German Development Ministry will increase its advocacy for this goal within international institutions and will develop strategic partnerships.

    In addition, selected partner countries will be supported in their efforts to roll back genital schistosomiasis and reduce the suffering of those affected by the disease.


    First steps

    The first steps are to be taken in cooperation with the Health Ministry of Malawi. Under the framework of ongoing activities for sexual and reproductive health and rights, the diagnosis and treatment of genital schistosomiasis are to be better integrated into primary healthcare. Furthermore, local civil society and women and girls will be supported as multipliers. They can create more awareness of the symptoms of FGS in their communities and reduce prejudice towards women affected by the disease.

    All the measures are in line with the goals of feminist development policy: they will help to expand international alliances, and they will promote gender equality, strengthen the rights of women and girls, improve their access to resources and foster their equal representation.

    As at: 07/10/2024