Knowledge of Tuberculosis among Pregnant Women Attending Health Centres in Anambra State Nigeria

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major global public health challenge, particularly in developing countries such as Nigeria, where the burden is high and vulnerable populations such as pregnant women may face particular risks. This study investigated knowledge of tuberculosis among pregnant women attending health centres in Anambra State, with particular focus on the influence of age and level of education. Three research questions guided the study, while two null hypotheses were formulated. The population comprised 1,023 pregnant women attending selected health centres, from which an initial sample of 102 respondents, representing 10% of the population, was drawn. Two improperly completed instruments were excluded, yielding a final sample of 100 respondents. Respondents were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a researcher-developed structured questionnaire titled the Knowledge of Tuberculosis Cognitive Test (KTCT). The instrument was validated by experts in Health Promotion and Public Health Education and in Measurement and Evaluation, and its reliability was established through a pilot study. Data were analysed using means and standard deviations to answer the research questions, while the hypotheses were tested using inferential statistics at the 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that the pregnant women had very high knowledge of tuberculosis, with variations according to age and level of education. Age did not significantly influence knowledge, whereas level of education significantly influenced knowledge of tuberculosis among the pregnant women. Based on the findings, continuous tuberculosis health education during antenatal care and targeted interventions to address identified knowledge gaps and improve preventive behaviours were recommended.