Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on Tuberculosis Amongst Nomads in Adamawa State, Nigeria

Abstract

Nomads are susceptible to TB because of limited access to TB services, inadequate nutrition, high prevalence of bovine TB, intake of unpasteurized milk, and migratory lifestyle, among other factors. Enhancing community knowledge and awareness plays a vital role in aiding prompt identification of TB; a fundamental aspect of the End TB Strategy. Although there have been several studies on knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) related to TB in Nigeria, no research has specifically focused on KAP towards TB among Nomads. Data from 160 individuals in Nomadic pastoralist communities across 2 LGAs in Adamawa State, were collected as part of a 2-arm randomized controlled trial. This study aimed to assess the KAP of Nomadic pastoralist population, using a multi-stage sampling method. Data were gathered by a validated and pretested, structured questionnaire and analysed using SPSS Version 22. Descriptive variables were summarized using frequency counts, and Chi-square test was employed to examine associations. Gaps in TB knowledge, variation in hygiene practices and beliefs about TB causes and transmission were observed. For instance, 15% of nomads have sound knowledge of TB in the intervention group as against 36.3% in the control group. 17.5% in the intervention group have a positive attitude toward TB compared to 15.0% in the control group. 22.5% of the respondents in the intervention group show adherent practice as against 20.0% in the control group. Community-specific health education programs targeting hygiene promotion campaigns, emphasizing key practices of cough etiquette, and pasteurization of milk should be developed and implemented.