Abstract
Introduction: Schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical disease impacts people of all genders and ages. Studies done on gender as a risk factor in schistosomiasis infection and control have not considered what the men and women in schistosomiasis endemic communities think about gender roles as a contributing factor to infection and control. We explored the perceptions of endemic farming (Kyaterekera) and fishing (Ndaiga) communities along Lake Albert in Kagadi District of Uganda regarding gender roles as a predisposing factor to schistosomiasis infection. Methods: We employed ethnographic design and conducted 10 key informant interviews, held 18 focus group discussion sessions (150 individuals), and made observations of the risky practices in the two community settings. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data collected. Results: Gender roles are perceived by both male and female participants from both settings to predispose the different genders to infection differently. Societal expectations and gender stereotypes are perceived by participants from both sites to predispose both genders to the risk of infection. Farming men, think that bilharzia is a lake-side problem. Finally, drug side effects are perceived to be a concern by both genders from both sites, although the women in the fishing setting would prefer to use herbs and prayers while the men think going to the hospital is ideal. Conclusions: Perceptions of gender roles as a predisposing factor to schistosomiasis infection and control differ according to gender and geographical location. Shared gendered aspects involve societal expectations, stereotypes, and side effects. Developing gender-specific interventions to control the disease, like providing separate toilets, gender-sensitive treatment campaigns, and gender inclusion in decision-making could go a long way in curbing the disease.