Knowledge, attitude and preventive practices towards onchocerciasis among residents of Ogun Waterside Local Government, IJEBU South-West, Nigeria: A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background: Onchocerciasis is prevalent near riverine environments, where black flies breed in large quantity. The study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices (KAP) towards onchocerciasis among residents of Ogun Waterside Local Government Area (OGWLGA), Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 267 respondents aged between 18 and 60 years in OGWLGA using a purposive sampling technique. A semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire comprising information on socio-demographic characteristics, KAP towards onchocerciasis was used. Questions on KAP were scored: 0 for incorrect and 1 for correct answers and computed into overall scores. The mean score of the population studied were used as the cut-off point for each segment. Knowledge Scores ≥21 was good knowledge, Attitude scores ≥6 was positive attitude, and practice scores ≥4 was good practice. Data was analyzed with SPSS version 24 using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics with p set at <0.05.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 42.1 ± 11.2 years. Over half (56.9%) of the respondents had good knowledge of onchocerciasis, but less than half had a positive attitude 111 (41.6%) and good practice 119 (44.6%) towards onchocerciasis prevention. Participants with good knowledge were more likely to have a positive attitude (aOR = 13.08, 95%CI: 6.47-26.42, p ≤ 0.001) and 14 good prevention practices (aOR = 14.66, 95%CI = 6.49-33.12, p ≤ 0.001) when compared to those with poor knowledge.

Conclusion: Health education efforts should emphasize the need to translate good knowledge into positive attitudes and prevention practices that can lead to onchocerciasis elimination in the communities.