Assessing Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices on HIV-Hepatitis Co-infection among Expectant Mothers in Ekiti South, Nigeria

Abstract

Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV are blood-borne infections that pose a serious threat to human health, particularly in Nigeria and other sub-Saharan African countries. The infections continue to pose a serious threat to public health, particularly in areas like Ekiti State where they are endemic. Pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HBV, HCV, HIV infection, and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) are poorly understood despite various control measures, the disease persists, necessitating a better understanding of pregnant women receiving prenatal care's knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to HIV-Hepatitis B and C. This study assessed the influence of demographic factors, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of HIV-Hepatitis B and C in relation to area of residence in Ekiti State. A cross-sectional KAP study was conducted among 620 pregnant women recruited from selected health facilities in Ekiti South Senatorial District, Ekiti State. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect demographic information and data on HIV-Hepatitis B and C knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Knowledge about HBV, HCV and HIV among pregnant women was found to be moderately satisfactory, their attitude is acceptable, and their practices were subpar. Therefore, this findings will shape local health policies or enhancing antenatal care (ANC) protocols through a comprehensive health education program, strengthening advocacy for dedicated funding, laboratory capacity, and drug procurement for hepatitis and HIV management in pregnancy, as well as enhancing access to effective Hepatitis B, C, and HIV prevention strategies, are crucial for reducing the disease burden in Ekiti State.