Educational Game Tackles Disease in Nigeria
Since its introduction, the board game “Chutes & Ladders” has been a household favorite in the U.S., originally adapted from an ancient Indian game designed to promote moral lessons. Now, kids in Nigeria are playing a modified version called “Schisto & Ladders,” which focuses on prevention methods for schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection linked to contaminated waters.
In the game, players may find themselves on a square labeled “playing in a river,” a scenario that puts them at risk for the disease and results in their token being sent down a worm instead of a traditional chute.
Cynthia Umunnakwe, a Nigerian researcher and educator, is one of the minds behind this initiative. The game is part of several creative efforts to combat schistosomiasis, known locally as “Atosi Aja” or Bloody Urine. This disease can lead to severe complications, such as blood in urine, fever, rash, and, if left untreated, it can cause serious long-term health issues including organ damage and even bladder cancer.
Schistosomiasis is often overlooked in disease prevention conversations despite affecting over 200 million people across sub-Saharan Africa. Children are particularly vulnerable due to their tendency to play in contaminated waters that heighten their risk of infection.
Created by a team led by Professor Uwem Ekpo of Akwa Ibom State University in 2014, “Schisto & Ladders” mirrors the original game by featuring a winding path where players advance by rolling dice. However, instead of the usual chute, they encounter schisto worms which signify setbacks, while positive actions such as “eat before taking medicine” help their progress in the game.
Interactions in the game educate players about key dangerous behaviors and choices that contribute to the spread of schistosomiasis. For instance, a square titled “Fetching water from a stream” illustrates the risk and leads to another square that indicates the potential complications of the illness.
During a recent visit to a school in Apojola village, Umunnakwe not only taught children how to play the game but also provided important medical resources, including urine testing and treatment through the Ministry of Health. Remarkably, in neighboring communities where testing was conducted, a significant portion of individuals screened had active schistosomiasis infections.
With the Oyan River being vital for daily activities like fishing and cleaning, it serves both as a playground for children and a source of potential infection. Umunnakwe emphasizes the importance of awareness and education in preventing the disease’s spread, detailing how even contact with infested water can pose risks.
Moreover, the game serves more than just entertainment; it reinforces good practices and helps shape healthy behaviors. Umunnakwe has previously conducted research indicating that engaging children in this manner can lead to increased knowledge and safer behaviors regarding schistosomiasis.
In a thrilling conclusion, one enthusiastic child exclaimed triumphantly as he reached the final square: “Hey look, I’m on top!” Umunnakwe hopes these educational interactions will inspire children to adopt healthier habits and ultimately contribute to reducing the incidence of this neglected tropical disease.
