What can schistosomes primarily lead to in humans?

Schistosomes are parasitic worms that primarily lead to severe infections in humans, often causing a disease known as schistosomiasis. This condition arises when the eggs of the parasitic worms hatch in the body and can result in a range of health issues, including inflammation, tissue damage, and even organ dysfunction. The infection typically occurs after exposure to contaminated water where the larval forms of these parasites reside, penetrating the skin.

People infected with schistosomes may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or blood in the stool, depending on the species involved and the organs affected. Additionally, chronic infections can lead to more serious complications, such as liver fibrosis or damage, bladder cancer, and an array of other health problems that highlight the severity of schistosomiasis as a public health concern.

The other options do not accurately represent the impact of schistosomes. For instance, while schistosomes can cause skin conditions such as rash or dermatitis upon initial infection, these are generally secondary symptoms rather than primary concerns. The other options regarding improvements in muscle strength or metabolic rates are unrelated to the effects of schistosome infection and misrepresent the serious nature of the health risks involved.