Epidemiological Assessment of Malaria Prevention Practices and Socio-Demographic Correlates among Urban Residents of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria
Keywords:
Malaria, prevention practices, socio-demographic factors, KAP, Lagos, NigeriaAbstract
Background: Malaria remains a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where transmission is sustained by environmental and behavioural factors despite ongoing control interventions.
Objective: This study assessed malaria prevention practices and socio-demographic correlates among urban residents of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 respondents selected from Oshodi-Isolo LGA. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and environmental risk factors. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation at a 5% level of significance.
Results: Most respondents were female (60.0%) and aged 18–25 years (30.0%). While 64.0% had heard of malaria and 68.0% were aware of insecticide-treated nets, misconceptions about transmission persisted. Although 86.0% had positive attitudes toward malaria prevention, 83.3% demonstrated poor preventive practices. Environmental risk factors such as stagnant water (66.0%), poor drainage (68.8%), and frequent mosquito presence (72.0%) were common. Significant correlations were observed between knowledge and attitude (r = -0.783, p < 0.05), knowledge and practice (r = 0.469, p < 0.05), and attitude and practice (r = -0.301, p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Despite relatively good awareness and positive attitudes, malaria prevention practices remain inadequate among urban residents. Sustainable behavioural change communication, improved environmental management, and strengthened community-level malaria prevention interventions are required to reduce transmission in the study area.
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