Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding schistosomiasis and soil-transmitted helminthiasis contamination in the district of Ndikiniméki, Centre-Cameroon region

Abstract

• A total of 5.42% and 39.42% knew about schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH). • Good knowledge of targeted SCH and STHs was associated with the (30;50 years) age group. • Overall, 9.39% and 15.61% practiced prevention well. Schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil-transmitted helminthiasis (STH) are significant public health concerns in Africa, necessitating targeted control strategies for vulnerable populations. This study assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding these diseases among residents of the Ndikiniméki district in Centre-Cameroon. Data were collected through a pre-designed questionnaire from June 2023 to April 2024, involving 756 respondents aged 15 years and over from 15 villages and seven neighborhoods. The majority of participants were women (55.89%), with most falling in the 30-50 years age range. Only 5.42% and 39.42% demonstrated good knowledge of SCH and STH, respectively. Logistic regression analysis indicated that good knowledge was linked to living farther from watercourses (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.98, P = 0.02), residing in permanent homes (aOR: 0.68, P = 0.04), and having a higher education level (aOR: 0.25, P = 0.01). Attitudes and practices were also low, with only 9.39% and 15.61% showing good prevention measures for SCH and STH, respectively. Men were more susceptible to these diseases. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive health education programs to enhance the prevention and control of these infections in rural communities.