Assessment of the Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Malaria Prevalence among Undergraduates

Abstract

Background: This study assessed the prevalence of malaria infection, associated risk factors, knowledge and practices about malaria among selected students in Lagos state, Nigeria. Methods:The study employed quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design, using pre-tested questionnaires and rapid diagnostic test kits to collect data from 172 University students in Lagos state. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.Results: Out of the 172 students examined for malaria parasite, 70 (40.7%) tested positive to the parasite. The overall mean (SD) knowledge score was 23 (± 7.25). The results of the chi-square tests showed that there was a significant association between the knowledge level and faculty among the students (p = 0.04). However other variables such as gender, age and academic level had no significant association with knowledge level. P < 0.05 at 95% confidence interval.There is a Significant Negative Relationship (At 0.05 CL) between the Attitude of the Students and the Prevalence of Malaria (R = -0.16, P < 0.05). This implies that, as the attitude of the student improves, the prevalence of malaria among them reduced. However, knowledge does not have a significant relationship with prevalence and with attitude (p > 0.05). Conclusion:This study revealed relatively moderate prevalence of malaria among the study population. Participants generally had good knowledge, attitudes, and practices about prevention and control of malaria. The university management therefore should implement malaria control strategies among young people in tertiary institutions.