Packed Cell Volume Levels of Pregnant Women Screened for Urinary Schistosomiasis Attending Antenatal Clinic at Vom Christian Hospital, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria
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Abstract
Background: Urinary schistosomiasis remains a public health concern in many endemic settings associated with adverse maternal hematological outcomes. Packed Cell Volume (PCV) is an important indicator of anemia in pregnancy. We assessed the PCV levels of pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at Vom Christian Hospital, Vom, Plateau State, Nigeria and evaluated their screening outcomes in relation to Schistosoma haematobium infection.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involving 100 pregnant women was conducted between April and May 2019. Blood samples were analyzed for PCV using the microhematocrit method, and urine samples were examined for S. haematobium using centrifugation techniques. A structured questionnaire was administered to obtain demographic data and potential risk factors related to urinary schistosomiasis. Data were analyzed descriptively.
Results: No case of S. haematobium infection was detected (0.0% prevalence). PCV values ranged from 33.7% to 38.4% across participants. The highest mean PCV was recorded among housewives (36.9%) and the lowest among civil servants (35.2%). Women aged 26–30 years had the highest PCV (38.4%), while those aged 36–40 years recorded the lowest (33.7%). Participants with tertiary education showed a mean PCV of 36.5%. Second-trimester women had the highest mean PCV (36.9%), compared to 35.8% in the first trimester. Knowledge of schistosomiasis was generally low, with many respondents unaware of key symptoms or transmission routes.
Conclusion: Although no urinary schistosomiasis infection was detected, variations in PCV levels were observed across demographic groups. These findings underscore the need for continuous hematological monitoring during pregnancy, particularly in settings with potential exposure to parasitic infections.
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