Knowledge and Perception of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis among Key Populations in Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State
1Sulaiman Adamu ; 2Juliana Ayafegbeh Afemikhe
1Department of Nursing Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Igbinedion University Okada, Edo state, Nigeria 2Department of Nursing Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
Corresponding Author: juliana.afemikhe@uniben.edu
Recieved Date: 3rd March, 2023; Accepted Date: 22nd April, 2023; Published Date: June, 2023
Citation: 1Sulaiman Adamu ; 2Juliana Ayafegbeh Afemikhe
ABSTRACT
Background/Objectives: Nigeria is one of the countries in the sub-Sahara Africa that is most
affected by human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) has
been proven to be an effective intervention for reducing the risk of acquiring and also the
potential of preventing new HIV infections. This study assessed the knowledge and
perception of PrEP among Key Populations (KPs) at risk of HIV infection in Katagum LGA, Bauchi State. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used
and sample size of 184 respondents was calculated using the Cochran formula for
quantitative study. Multistage sampling was utilized in selecting the wards, settlement and the
respondents from the community. A self-structured questionnaire was utilized for data
collection, ethical approval was obtained from the Ministry of Health and consent obtained
from respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of IBM SPSS
Version 22. Results: The results revealed that 82.7% of respondents had very high level of
knowledge of PrEP and the major source of information was the nurses 52.8% and only 8%
accessed the mass media for information. The perception of PrEP in this study was positive
among Key Populations, 94.4% of the respondents perceived PrEP as effective in reducing
risk of HIV infection. Conclusion: There was good level of knowledge among Key
Populations in the study and perception was positive which could be attributed to constant
face to face interactions with health care professionals. There is a need to motivate the group
to utilize the digital messaging.