VIBE-FGS-EUSAN

"Prevention and improved diagnosis of adolescent genital disease in schistosomiasis endemic KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa"

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 Obiettivo del progetto (Objective)

'The VIBE-FGS-EUSAN project is a joint initiative by six partner universities in Europe and one partner university in Africa who have developed collaborative links in the last decade. This network of translational research aims to facilitate a strong collaboration between laboratories at the forefront of basic research and field projects trying to resolve tropical issues on the ground. In the poorer parts of the world, especially in Africa such integrated translational networks are rare. We aim to strengthen the partnership, to stimulate scientific achievements in the fields of biotechnology, clinical medicine, public health, and immunology. The VIBE-FGS-EUSAN project was established in order to study the gender-related health problem of Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), a neglected tropical disease. The parasite Schistosoma (Bilharzia) infects 200 million people and is the second most important parasite affecting human health after malaria. FGS is a previously unknown disease that may create gynaecological contact bleeding. In Zimbabwe we found that women with genital schistosomiasis had an almost 3-fold higher odds ratio of having HIV. FGS is waterborne, affecting women doing laundry or children playing in the rivers. In a project in South Africa the field research is sponsored by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through the University of Copenhagen. We intend to collect evidence of the effects of mass- treatment on genital lesions, and effects on HIV transmission and HIV susceptibility. The project will strengthen cooperation among partner organisations, developing long-lasting partnerships. In a bottom-up approach, following the ethos of the Marie Curie actions the exchange programme will enhance the quality and lift scientific competence of participating researchers, PhD and Masters students of seven universities.'

Introduzione (Teaser)

A previously unidentified disease caused by the Schistosoma parasite is causing major health problems for women and children in Africa. Researchers are currently working on preventative measures.

Descrizione progetto (Article)

The water-borne Schistosoma parasite infects around 200 million people and causes bilharzia.

Unfortunately, it is also now known to be the causative agent of female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), which results in genital bleeding in women and girls.The EU-funded VIBE-FGS-EUSAN project is documenting the health problems caused by this under-studied disease.

VIBE-FGS-EUSAN is a collaboration between six European universities and one South African university.Researchers will investigate the link between FGS and HIV transmission, as recent evidence shows that women with FGS are three times more likely to be infected with HIV.

They will determine whether a mass treatment campaign will have any effect on FGS or on HIV transmission.Another part of the project will focus on fostering research collaboration and capacity in African and European institutions.

This will be achieved by supporting students and professional researchers through training and a research exchange programme.Once complete, this study will contribute to improving the lives of women and children in African countries.

It may also provide a better understanding of the link between FGS and HIV transmission.