Knowledge, Attitude, Ownership and Utilisation of Long-Lasting Insecticide-Treated Net Among Women of Childbearing Age Accessing Care in a Private Tertiary Hospital in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Ownership and use of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets (LLIN) are crucial for effective malaria control. However, a disparity exists between the two. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, ownership, and use of LLIN among women of childbearing age. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 400 women selected through purposive sampling. Ownership and utilisation of LLIN were assessed with “Yes” or “No” responses. Aggregate scores for knowledge and attitude were calculated, categorising as having good or poor knowledge/attitude, using the mean scores as the cutoff. Data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS version 23 and presented in tables. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 33.1 ± 8.3 years. More than three-fifths (62.5%) had LLINs. However, only 71.2% of this group slept under LLIN. Approximately two-thirds (64.8%) of participants demonstrated good knowledge, while 47.5% showed a good attitude. There was a statistically significant association between the level of education and ownership of LLINs (p = 0.016). Additionally, a statistically significant association existed between the belief that sleeping under an LLIN was taboo and possessing an LLIN (p = 0.008). There was a statistically significant association between the level of education and sleeping under an LLIN (p = 0.008). Conclusion: Education and cultural taboos affect owning and sleeping under LLIN. More priority should be given to female education and debunking negative myths concerning LLIN use by using peer educators and community influencers, such as religious and traditional leaders.