Knowledge, attitude and practice on integrated control of schistosomiasis among the community at Buchosa Division, Mwanza, Tanzania
Material type:
Item type | Current library | Collection | Status | Barcode | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
UNDERGRADUATE DISSERTATIONS | MWALIMU NYERERE LEARNING RESOURCES CENTRE-CUHAS BUGANDO | NFIC | 1 | UD1786 |
Abstract:
Background information: Schistosomiasis remains a global health problem with an estimated 250 million people in 78 countries infected, of whom 85% live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Preventive chemotherapy remains the key public health strategy to combat schistosomiasis worldwide. Recently the WHO emphasized on the use of integrative approaches in the control and elimination of schistosomiasis, our study aimed to determine the knowledge and practices about integrated control of schistosomiasis in Nyakalilo wards, Buchosa district.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Nyakalilo ward involving 240 community members. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic data and to determine knowledge practices on integrated control of schistosomiasis among community members in the study area.
Results: Of the 240 respondents. Level of knowledge on schistosomiasis causes reported that only 21 (8.8%) stated that worms as a causative agent. Bacteria, witchcraft, poor hygiene and sanitation were mentioned to be the cause for schistosomiasis. Among respondents 78 (32.7%) stated that swimming in lake, drinking untreated/unboiled water, walking bare footed, and bathing in lake were reported to be practices that may lead to schistosomiasis infection. Only 148 (61.7%) respondents reported to know the signs of intestinal schistosomiasis. Drinking treated/boiled water and avoid swimming in lake were mentioned as preventive measures while 136 (56.7%) reported Praziquantel as the drug of choice for treatment. 197 (82.1%) reported schistosomiasis as a dangerous disease and can cause death if remain untreated. MDS program was reported to be known by 231 (96.3%) respondents where majority 236 (97.9%) respondent positively. Majority 234 (99.8%) own the toilet and practice the hand washing. Majority fetch water from lake and well for use at home while treatment/boiling water practice is poor. Only 216 (90.0%) used to go to health facility when feel sign of schistosomiasis. Only 203 (84.6%) use Praziquantel for treatment.
Conclusion: In conclusion the community members had low knowledge, and good practices toward integrated control of schistosomiasis. The awareness on MDA programs was greater but knowledge on MDA program was low. The knowledge about integrated control schistosomiasis needs to be addressed through intensive health education.
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