A recent study from Kumasi has uncovered significant risks and diagnostic challenges linked to toxoplasmosis infection among pregnant women, particularly those with cat exposure and lower education levels. The research, led by Dr. Bhavana Singh of KNUST’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, highlights that over half of first-trimester pregnant women tested positive for the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which poses serious threats to unborn babies.
Alarmingly, the study found that rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) currently used in some health facilities missed more than half of the infections detected by the more reliable ELISA method, raising concerns about the effectiveness of existing prenatal screening programs.
Toxoplasmosis, often asymptomatic in healthy adults, can cause miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects when contracted during pregnancy. The infection is primarily spread through contact with cat feces, contaminated soil, or undercooked meat.
Dr. Singh called for urgent improvements in prenatal testing protocols and public health education, especially for pregnant women who interact with cats or have limited formal education. Recommendations include enhanced awareness campaigns promoting hygiene practices like thorough handwashing, safe cooking, and avoiding contact with cat litter.
This study, a collaboration between KNUST, the University Hospital, and the Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, urges health authorities to strengthen diagnostic tools and outreach efforts to better protect maternal and child health in the region.
