Knowledge about Tuberculosis: A Precursor to Effective TB Control-Findings from a Follow-Up National KAP Study on...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Communication

Background:

• Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global public health emergency, with Nigeria identified as a high-burden country.
• Effective TB control strategies necessitate high community awareness and positive perceptions of TB and its management.
• Previous national surveys in 2008 and 2012 aimed to assess public knowledge of TB.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the knowledge of the Nigerian general population regarding Tuberculosis in a 2012 follow-up study.
• To assess changes in TB knowledge since the 2008 baseline survey.
• To identify areas for improved communication and information dissemination for TB control.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study design was utilized.
• Data were collected from 3,021 respondents across six randomly selected states, representing Nigeria's six geopolitical zones.
• Both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies were employed.

Main Results:

• Over 80% of respondents had previously heard of TB.
• A statistically significant improvement in correct knowledge of TB's cause was observed, rising from 19% in 2008 to 26.5% in 2012 (p < 0.001).
• The majority of respondents (60%) were aged 21-40 years, and over half had secondary school education.

Conclusions:

• While TB awareness has increased, significant gaps in knowledge persist.
• Prioritized interventions focusing on communication and information dissemination are crucial for enhancing public understanding of TB.
• Improved public knowledge is essential to support ongoing TB control and prevention efforts in Nigeria.