Predictors of tuberculosis knowledge among mothers of under-fives, seen at Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction: Globally, tuberculosis still remains a disease of public health concern and accounts for high morbidity and mortality particularly in developing countries, where it is fuelled by a number of factors.

Methodology: Through a cross-sectional descriptive study, this study aims to determine the predictors of knowledge about TB among 261 mothers of children under 5 years of age attending Child Welfare Clinic, Bingham University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria.

Results: The mean age of the mothers was 31.54 ± 5.28 years, and 249 (98.4%) aware of TB. About two-third having sufficient knowledge and positive attitude regarding TB. Significant statistical association was found between knowledge and attainment of post-secondary education (OR 4.0; 95% CI 12.09, 7.63; p ˂ 0.001), monthly income ≤ 25,000 naira (OR 2.18; 95% CI 1.02, 4.65; p = 0.042), monthly income > 51,000 naira (OR 3.24; 95% CI 1.43, 7.31; p = 0.005), women engaged in business (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.22, 0.83; p = 0.012) and possessing positive attitude (OR 3.87; 95% CI 2.16, 6.93; p ˂ 0.001) in the univariate analysis. However, in the multivariate logistic regression, it was only attitude that was found to be a predictor of TB knowledge of mothers.

Conclusions: TB knowledge among the mothers was high, only attitude regarding thoughts and beliefs about TB was found as an independent predictor of TB knowledge. With the positive influence of attitude on knowledge among the mothers, it is recommended that this be strengthened for sustenance to prevent further infection.