scholarly journals KNOWLEDGE AND RISK PERCEPTION OF NIGERIANS TOWARDS THE CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19)

Author(s):  
Bolaji Felicia Udomah ◽  
Uriel Oludare Ashaolu ◽  
Charles Oluwatemitope Olomofe ◽  
Olufunke Folasade Dada ◽  
Victor Kehinde Soyemi ◽  
...  

Background: The Coronavirus Disease 2019(COVID-19) is far from over, although appreciable progress have been made to limit the devastating effects of the pandemic across the globe. Adequate knowledge and risk perception is a critical assessment that is required to ensure proper preventive measures. This study assessed these among Nigerians. Methods: The study was a cross-sectional assessment of 776 consenting Nigerian adults that were distributed across the 6 geo-political zones and the Federal Capital Territory. Online pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire were used to obtain the socio-demographic data and assessed the knowledge and risk perception of the participants to COVID-19. The knowledge of COVID-19 was assessed based on the number of accurate responses given in comparison to average scores. Chi-square analysis was computed to analysis the association between socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge of COVID-19 and risk perception. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 21, the level of significance was set at value p<0.05 at 95% confidence interval. Results: Majority of the participants were male 451 (58.1%), there was a good knowledge of COVID-19 among 90.3% of respondents with 57% having positive risk perception. There was a statistically significant relationship between good knowledge and positive risk perception of COVID-19 (p < 0.001). Annual income (p =0.012) and the perception that vaccines are good significantly predict positive risk perception of COVID-19 among the respondents. Conclusion: A good knowledge of COVID-19 and vaccination against the virus were the two most important factors that determined risk perception among the population. This may be because of the widespread advocacy, and it portends a good omen at combating COVID-19 menace. Key words: COVID-19, Risk perception, Nigerians

Author(s):  
Animesh Gupta ◽  
Aishwarya Bhat

Background: Malaria is one of the most prevalent parasitic diseases worldwide and India has fourth highest number of malaria cases and deaths in the world. Prevention of the disease through better knowledge and awareness is the appropriate way to keep the disease away and remain healthy. Thus, the present study was aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices regarding malaria among residents of Mangalore.Methods: Community based cross sectional study was conducted among residents in Mangalore. The data was collected by using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire which include socio-demographic data, basic knowledge about malaria, transmission and preventive measures and health seeking behaviour regarding malaria through interview method.Results: Almost 98.4% respondents heard of malaria disease and 96% respondents had knowledge that malaria is caused by mosquito bite. Even, majority (72%) of respondents knew that malaria can be fatal. Regarding the symptoms of malaria, 52.4% respondents mentioned fever with chills and 11.6% respondents don’t know about malarial symptoms.Conclusions: Majority of the respondents were familiar with the malaria symptoms, mode of transmission and vector control measures. They had good knowledge of malaria disease and good practices of malaria control measures.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Erick Wesley Hedima ◽  
Samuel Adeyemi Michael ◽  
Emmanuel Agada David

AbstractCOVID-19 caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly infectious disease declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The Knowledge and risk perception in the adult population may influence adherence to safety guidelines.ObjectiveTo assess the knowledge, preventive measures and risk perception of adult Nigerians regarding COVID-19.MethodsWe conducted an online cross-sectional survey in which five hundred and ten (510) adult participants consented and filled the questionnaire. The questionnaire is divided in to four sections: 1) socio-demographic characteristics of the participants, 2) assessment of knowledge, 3) risk perception and the 4) preventive measures.ResultsOf the 510 respondents, 95.9% claimed knowledge of COVID-19, through the traditional media (55.3%), and social media (41%), while only 3.7% got informed through health officials. Level of education (P=0.0001), income status (P<0.00001) and being a healthcare worker (P=0.002) were significantly associated with a good knowledge of COVID-19. Overall Risk perception was high (median score of 4 out of 5). Risk perception was significantly high among the female participants (P=0.04), young adult (P=0.039) and healthcare providers (P=0.001), while knowledge of preventive measures like avoiding to eat outside the home (P=0.001), traveling to high risk areas (P=0.017), wearing face mask (P=0.01) and eating balanced diet (P=0.014) were significant across gender.ConclusionMost participants demonstrated good knowledge of COVID-19 and its preventive measures, while risk perception was higher among healthcare workers. Findings from this survey could guide information campaigns by public health authorities, clinicians, and the media.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Khalid Shamim ◽  
Shamim Ahmad ◽  
Md Ashraf Alam

PurposeConfusion over the interpretation of date labels is one of the main causes of food waste at the retail and consumer level. The purpose of this study was to determine consumer understanding of food date labels and to assess consumer perception of food waste based on these labels.Design/methodology/approachIt is a cross-sectional study carried out in India. Google forms were used to administer an online structured questionnaire. A total of 389 individuals participated in the study. The data were analyzed using Chi-square statistics and ordinal logistic regression.FindingsThe results affirmed that most of the consumers frequently looked at date labels while purchasing food products, but many of them did not have adequate knowledge of commonly used date label terms. In particular, respondents tended to misunderstand the “best before” date label as the last date for safe consumption, that is, a safety indicator that is not correct. The study indicated that lack of appropriate knowledge, misunderstanding of date labels and lack of complete information contributed toward unnecessary and excess discard of foods that may otherwise perfectly be safe and edible.Practical implicationsRaising public awareness, educating consumers about food date labels and pushing for standardizing the information on date labels by providing adequate guidelines to companies would enable consumers to better interpret the labels, and it would lead to lowering the unnecessary food wastage.Originality/valueThis study fulfills an important knowledge gap in respect of examining the food date label knowledge and its relationship with food waste practices in India.


2020 ◽  
Vol 20 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shadrack Muma ◽  
Stephen Obonyo

Abstract Background The quality of life can be impacted negatively by blindness arising from cataract. The total prevalence of blindness in Kenya is estimated at 0.7%, however cataract contributes almost half (43%) of the total blindness in Kenya. Optometrists are well placed to assess and refer cataract patients. However, little is known on optometrists’ skills, practice and knowledge. Therefore, this study was designed to assess optometrists’ knowledge, skill and practice on cataract in Kisumu, Kenya. Methods A cross-sectional study design was used. The study was conducted from June 2019 to August 219 using self-administered questionnaire. Basic socio-demographic characteristics were collected and participants’ knowledge, skills and practice on cataract were investigated. The primary outcome measure was the proportions of participants who identified the questions related to knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. Chi-square analysis was performed to assess the association between demographic characteristics of participants with practice, knowledge and skills. Results A total of 49 optometrists with a mean age of 30.4 years and mean duration of practice of 1–10 years were interviewed. Most optometrists had good knowledge on various aspects of cataract. For example (98%) had a good knowledge on the types of cataract. Almost three quarter (75.5%) of the optometrists reported that they could diagnose cataract correctly based on skills. However, half (57.1%) of the optometrists could not identify nuclear cataract. Being a self reported practice and not an observed practice, most optometrists (61.2%) reported that they did not screen patients aged 40 years and above for cataract. Almost half (52.6%) of the optometrists reported that they did a routine eye examination however, they could not justify the significance of examining the crystalline lens for patient above 40 years. Conclusion The study established that despite the good level of knowledge among optometrist on cataract, there exist a gap on skills and practice. The results of this study calls for more clinical based activities among optometrists. This will eases diagnosis of cataract and its management with an aim to reduce the burden in Kenya.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shadrack Muma ◽  
Stephen Obonyo

Abstract Background: Cataract is a major contributor to avoidable blindness in the world and greatly impact negatively on the quality of life. The prevalence of blindness in Kenya is estimated at 0.7% with cataract contributing 43%. Optometrists being the primary eye care providers for cataract patients, they are well placed to assess and refer cataract patients. Though there is no data on optometrist knowledge, skill and practice on cataract in Kisumu, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. The study was conducted from June 2019 to August 219 using self-administered questionnaire. We collected basic socio-demographic characteristics and investigated participants’ knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. The primary outcome measures were the proportions of participants who identified the questions related to knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. Chi-square analysis was performed to look at the association between demographic and practice, knowledge and skills. Results: A total of 49 optometrists were interviewed with a male to female ratio of 2:1, mean age of 30.4(72%) years and mean duration of practice of one to ten years. Majority of the optometrists had good knowledge on various aspects of cataract. Like 98% had a good knowledge on the types of cataract. Based on skills, 75.5% could diagnose cataract correctly. However, 57.1% could not identify nuclear cataract. Practice among the optometrists was largely low in the sense that, 61.2% of optometrists did not screen patients aged 40 years and above for cataract. Almost half of the optometrists, 52.6% did a routine eye examination but did not know the importance of examining the crystalline lens for patient above 40 years. Conclusion The study established that despite the good level of knowledge among the optometrist on cataract, there exist gaps in skills in categorizing the type of cataract and practice. The results of this study calls for skills development training for optometrists on cataract and immediate ophthalmic division response for improvement on the scope of training for optometrists. This will eases diagnosis of cataract and its management so as to reduce its burden in Kenya.


Author(s):  
Siddhartha Dutta ◽  
Hina Lal ◽  
Tarun Kumar ◽  
Govind Mishra ◽  
Jaykaran Charan ◽  
...  

Knowledge of the disease, attitude towards the stopping of transmission and practicing of the preventing and treatment measure determine the spread of any communicable disease. COVID-19 is a viral pandemic wreaking havoc in day-to-day life especially affecting the health care workers. This was a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study that was carried out in the healthcare workers (HCWs) involved with the care of COVID-19 patients. The patients were given a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from online available literature and information provided on the WHO and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website. The questionnaire was distributed by online platforms as a google form. A total of 104 HCWs were enrolled and 95 of them were included. They were majorly from age group 26-35 years (64.2%) and were males (62.8%). Most of the HCWs were postgraduate (73.7%) and graduates (25.3%). A majority (96.7%) of subjects had a good knowledge about the disease and its prevention with a positive attitude towards proper care and management of the patient. Majority of the HCWs were practicing all the preventive measures possible in their work environment like disinfecting the frequently touched surfaces, hand hygiene, mask etc. Good knowledge and proper following of the COVID-19 protocols can help in protecting oneself from getting exposed especially in professions like health care and halting the spread of this communicable disease.


2020 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-66
Author(s):  
Samuel Dada ◽  
Folasade Aina ◽  
Mary Oyedele ◽  
Daniel Aina

Objective: To assess the knowledge and determine the level of utilization of Non-Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment (NASG) for the management of PPH among Midwives. Method: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional study design, using a validated self-administered questionnaire. A total of 198 randomly selected midwives across three health facilities in Ogun State participated in the study. A 10-point knowledge scale was used to assess the knowledge of midwives on NASG. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the level of utilization of NASG among midwives, while Chi-square statistics were used to determine the relationship between the dependent and independent variables of interest at p<0.05 level of significance. Results: Most (88.9%) of the respondents were female with a mean age of 40.2±5.6years. Most (48.5%) had a BNS degree. The majority (74.7%) of the respondents were aware of NASG. Close to a half (49.3%) of the respondents had fair knowledge scores, 34.5% had good knowledge scores, while 16.2% had poor knowledge scores. Only 22.7% of the respondents had ever used NASG in the management of PPH; 77.3% never used it before. Also, 67.2% of the respondents reported NASG was not available in their facilities. There was a significant influence of knowledge of NASG on the utilization among midwives (X2=37.151, P<0.05, df=2). Conclusion: This study demonstrated that midwives in healthcare facilities were aware, but did not have good knowledge of NASG. The utilization of the garment for the management of PPH was also very poor, probably due to suboptimal knowledge and non-availability of the garment.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shadrack Muma ◽  
Stephen Obonyo

Abstract Background: Cataract is a major contributor to avoidable blindness in the world and greatly impact negatively on the quality of life. The prevalence of blindness in Kenya is estimated at 0.7% with cataract contributing 43%. Optometrists being the primary eye care providers for cataract patients, they are well placed to assess and refer cataract patients. Though there is no data on optometrist knowledge, skill and practice on cataract in Kisumu, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. The study was conducted from June 2019 to August 219 using self-administered questionnaire. We collected basic socio-demographic characteristics and investigated participants’ knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. The primary outcome measures were the proportions of participants who identified the questions related to knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. Chi-square analysis was performed to look at the association between demographic and practice, knowledge and skills. Results: A total of 49 optometrists were interviewed with a male to female ratio of 2:1, mean age of 30.4(72%) years and mean duration of practice of one to ten years. Majority of the optometrists had good knowledge on various aspects of cataract. Like 98% had a good knowledge on the types of cataract. Based on skills, 75.5% could diagnose cataract correctly. However, 57.1% could not identify nuclear cataract. Practice among the optometrists was largely low in the sense that, 61.2% of optometrists did not screen patients aged 40 years and above for cataract. Almost half of the optometrists, 52.6% did a routine eye examination but did not know the importance of examining the crystalline lens for patient above 40 years. Conclusion The study established that despite the good level of knowledge among the optometrist on cataract, there exist gaps in skills in categorizing the type of cataract and practice. The results of this study calls for skills development training for optometrists on cataract and immediate ophthalmic division response for improvement on the scope of training for optometrists. This will eases diagnosis of cataract and its management so as to reduce its burden in Kenya.


2018 ◽  
pp. 16-20
Author(s):  
Sundari Sundari ◽  
Andi Masnilawati

Breast milk is the best food for babies because it contains all the necessary nutrients the baby needs in an appropriate amount and immunologic substances that protect the baby from infection. This is due to the presence of antibodies contained in ASI colostrum. Breast-fed baby can regulate energy intake associated with internal response in realizing the sense of satiety. The purpose of this study to determine the description of the level of knowledge and work with exclusive breastfeeding to mothers in Makassar. The design of this study is an analytical study using cross sectional design. Quantitative data is then analyzed descriptively in the distribution of frequency characteristics of mothers who have children 7-12 months. Chi square analysis was used to compare categorical data of influence including knowledge and work status on exclusive breastfeeding using chi square test with the help of computer program. Good knowledge of respondents about exclusive breastfeeding (67.9%) and knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding (32.1%). Distribution of working mother (54%) and distribution of unemployed mother (45,7%). Mothers who do not work choose not breastfeeding as much as 37.8%. Knowledge of the mother's exclusive breastfeeding is related to maternal actions to exclusively breastfeed to infants in Makassar. Maternal occupations are not related to maternal action to exclusively breastfeed to infants in Makassar. The conclusions of the study show that good knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding increases exclusive breastfeeding.


2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shadrack Muma ◽  
Stephen Obonyo

Abstract Background: Cataract not only contributes to blindness which is avoidable, but also impact negatively on the quality of life. The total prevalence of blindness in Kenya is estimated at 0.7%, however cataract contributes almost half (43%) of the total blindness in Kenya. Optometrists are well placed to assess and refer cataract patients however, little is known on their skills, practice and knowledge. Therefore, this study was designed to assess optometrists’ knowledge, skill and practice on cataract in Kisumu, Kenya. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used. The study was conducted from June 2019 to August 219 using self-administered questionnaire. Basic socio-demographic characteristics were collected and participants’ knowledge, skills and practice on cataract investigated. The primary outcome measures were the proportions of participants who identified the questions related to knowledge, skills and practice on cataract. Chi-square analysis was performed to assess the association between demographic characteristics with practice, knowledge and skills. Results: A total of 49 optometrists were interviewed with a male to female ratio of 2:1, mean age of 30.4 years and mean duration of practice of 1-10 years. Most optometrists had good knowledge on various aspects of cataract. For example (98%) had a good knowledge on the types of cataract. Almost three quarter (75.5%) of the optometrists reported that they could diagnose cataract correctly based on skills. However, half (57.1%) of the optometrists could not identify nuclear cataract. Being a self reported practice and not observed practice, most optometrists (61.2%) reported that they do not screen patients aged 40 years and above for cataract. Almost half (52.6%) of the optometrists reported that they always do a routine eye examination but they do not know the importance of examining the crystalline lens for patient above 40 years. Conclusion The study established that despite the good level of knowledge among optometrist on cataract, there exist a gap on skills and practice. The results of this study calls for more clinical based activities among optometrists and other cadres. This will eases diagnosis of cataract and its management so as to reduce its burden in Kenya.


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