Sociodemographic determinants of lymphatic filariasis knowledge among refugees in Cameroon

This study aimed to assess the sociodemographic determinants of knowledge of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) among refugees in the Lolo and Mbile camps of Cameroon's East region.

We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study among 528 refugees aged ≥ 18 years, selected via a multi-stage cluster sampling approach. Data were collected using pre-tested questionnaires administered by trained interviewers. Knowledge of LF was a dichotomous outcome based on recognition of the disease or its local names. We performed bivariate analyses followed by a multivariable logistic regression model to identify independent factors associated with LF knowledge, adjusting for potential confounders and testing for interactions.

Overall LF knowledge was critically low (17.1%). In the adjusted multivariable model, formal education emerged as the strongest independent predictor (Adjusted Odds Ratio, aOR = 4.16; 95% CI: 1.60-10.83). A significant interaction revealed that Koranic education was a strong predictor in the Mbile camp (combined aOR = 4.1; 95% CI: 1.03-15.51) but not in Lolo. Other factors associated with higher knowledge in the adjusted model included being a household head (aOR = 1.86; 95% CI. 0.98-3.54) and shorter duration of residence.

LF knowledge is alarmingly low in these refugee settings. The powerful effect of formal education and the context-dependent role of Koranic education highlight that awareness campaigns must be tailored to the specific educational and sociocultural landscape of each refugee camp. Strengthening both formal and context-relevant non-formal education systems should be a cornerstone of future LF elimination programs in humanitarian contexts.