Prevalence, Knowledge and Preventive Practices of Vaginal Candidiasis among Final-Year Female Public Health Students in Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Vaginal candidiasis is a common fungal infection affecting women of reproductive age, with a significant burden among university students. Laboratory-based diagnostic methods, including microscopy and culture, remain essential for accurate identification and differentiation from other vaginal infections. Despite the high prevalence, knowledge and awareness of vaginal candidiasis among young women, including university students, remain suboptimal. Aim: This study assessed the prevalence, knowledge, and preventive practices of vaginal candidiasis among final year female Public Health undergraduate students at Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 165 final year female Public Health students selected through systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing socio-demographics, knowledge, and preventive practices. High vaginal swab specimens were collected and analysed using microscopy and culture to determine prevalence. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26, with chi-square tests used to determine associations at p < 0.05 significance level. Results: The prevalence of vaginal candidiasis was 23.6%, while the overall vaginal infections prevalence was 67.9%. Aerobic vaginitis (57.0%) was the most common infection, with 61.5% of candidiasis cases co-infected with aerobic vaginitis. Good knowledge was demonstrated by 68.5% of respondents, though only 39.4% correctly understood that candidiasis is not primarily an STI. Good preventive practices were reported by 64.2%, yet 49.7% had avoided seeking care due to embarrassment. Cost (35.8%) and stigma (35.8%) were the major perceived barriers. Age, residence, and information source significantly influenced knowledge (p < 0.05). Practice level was significantly associated with infection prevalence (p = 0.016), while knowledge showed no association. Antibiotic resistance to commonly used oral antibiotics was high. Conclusion: Vaginal candidiasis and other reproductive tract infections are highly prevalent among final year female Public Health students, with significant knowledge-practice gaps and persistent stigma. The high rate of mixed infections with aerobic vaginitis has important implications for treatment. Multi-level interventions addressing individual, institutional, and socio-cultural determinants are urgently needed.