Webinar | Ending the neglect - Unlocking the potential of including FGS in Global Fund HIV prevention programmes

Members of the FGS Integration Group [FIG] are excited to be working with EANASSO on FGS, presenting at this exciting webinar to increase awareness across Africa and advocate for the inclusion of FGS in GF and other HIV prevention/SRH programmes.

FGS affects 56 million women and girls in Sub-Saharan Africa and is caused by untreated schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection from contaminated water sources. The condition occurs when parasite eggs become trapped in the genital tract, leading to severe reproductive health complications, including ectopic pregnancies, infertility, and increased risks of HIV, HPV, and cervical cancer. FGS is often misdiagnosed as a sexually transmitted infection, resulting in stigmatization, mistreatment, and increased vulnerability to gender-based violence. Marginalized women and girls are particularly affected due to harmful social norms and inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. Despite being caused by a neglected tropical disease (NTD), FGS should be integrated into sexual and reproductive health services to ensure better health outcomes for women and girls. Collaboration with communities, civil society, and health organizations is critical for effective prevention. A major challenge is the lack of awareness about FGS among healthcare providers and communities, coupled with inadequate training despite the associated health risks. Addressing these gaps and raising awareness is essential as global health stakeholders prepare for reprogramming efforts in GC7 and GC8.

Speakers include FIG members Yael Valleman (Unlimit Health); Dr Victoria Gamba (Kenyan Gynaecological Society), Anouk Gouvras (GSA) and Leora Pillay (Frontline AIDS).