The Burden of Male Genital Schistosomiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa- A scoping review

This research project is a scoping review titled “The Burden of Male Genital Schistosomiasis in Sub-Saharan Africa.” The study focuses on understanding the extent, nature, and distribution of evidence related to male genital schistosomiasis (MGS), a neglected manifestation of urogenital schistosomiasis caused primarily by *Schistosoma haematobium*. Although schistosomiasis remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa, research and control efforts have traditionally focused on urinary symptoms and school-aged children, while the effects of the disease on male genital and reproductive health have received far less attention. The purpose of this research is to systematically map and synthesise existing evidence on male genital schistosomiasis across sub-Saharan Africa. Specifically, the study seeks to identify the geographical distribution of reported cases, the epidemiological burden of the condition, affected populations, clinical manifestations, reproductive and sexual health consequences, diagnostic approaches, and health-system responses. The review also aims to identify major gaps in knowledge, policy, and practice that may hinder effective recognition, diagnosis, and management of the condition. This project is important because growing evidence suggests that untreated male genital schistosomiasis may lead to chronic genital inflammation, haemospermia, painful ejaculation, semen abnormalities, infertility-related complications, and possible interactions with sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Despite these concerns, the available evidence remains fragmented, limited to a small number of countries, and insufficiently integrated into mainstream schistosomiasis control programmes and reproductive health services. Many endemic settings still rely primarily on urine-based diagnostic methods, which may fail to detect genital involvement in men, resulting in underdiagnosis and missed opportunities for treatment. To achieve its objectives, the study applies a scoping review methodology guided by established frameworks such as Arksey and O’Malley, Levac et al., and the Joanna Briggs Institute recommendations, while reporting follows the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Literature was searched from multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Web of Science, together with supplementary searches from relevant institutional sources and reference lists. Studies included in the review involve males of all age groups from sub-Saharan Africa and address male genital involvement associated with schistosomiasis, including clinical, reproductive, diagnostic, and health-system dimensions. The expected outcomes of the research include a comprehensive synthesis of current evidence on male genital schistosomiasis in sub-Saharan Africa, identification of research and diagnostic gaps, and a clearer understanding of the reproductive and public health implications of the condition. The study is also expected to provide evidence-based recommendations for future epidemiological research, improved diagnostic strategies, and stronger integration of male genital schistosomiasis into neglected tropical disease programmes, sexual and reproductive health services, and primary healthcare systems. Ultimately, the findings are intended to contribute to increased awareness among researchers, clinicians, and policymakers and to support more inclusive schistosomiasis control efforts that address the needs of adult men in endemic communities.