Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of antenatal attendees towards prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV infection in ITAS/GADAU local government area, Bauchi state, Nigeria

Abstract

Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) remains an important route of paediatric HIV acquisition, although timely testing, antiretroviral therapy (ART), appropriate infant feeding support and continuity of maternal and infant care can markedly reduce transmission. Knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among antenatal care (ANC) attendees can influence uptake of prevention services. To assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of ANC attendees regarding prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV in Itas/Gadau Local Government Area, Bauchi State, Nigeria. A health-facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 109 ANC attendees selected by simple random sampling from four selected government health facilities. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, reproductive history, knowledge, attitude, practice and sociocultural factors. Data were analysed using SPSS version 16.0. Associations were examined using the chi-square test at a significance level of 0.05. All 109 participants responded. Mean age was 30.4 ± 9.7 years; 93.6% were married and 33.0% had secondary education. All participants had heard of HIV. Based on the study scoring criteria, 88 (80.7%) had good PMTCT knowledge, 101 (92.7%) had a positive attitude and 74 (67.9%) had good PMTCT practice. HIV testing was reported by 108 (99.1%) participants, and 103 (95.4%) of those tested reported receiving pre- and post-test counselling. Previous ANC attendance, gravidity, knowledge and attitude were associated with PMTCT practice; occupation was also associated with practice. Permission giver was associated with practice among the reported sociocultural variables. The study demonstrated generally favourable KAP toward PMTCT among ANC attendees, but important gaps remained in specific knowledge and preventive practices, particularly disclosure, continuity of care and sociocultural barriers. Strengthening ANC-based education, partner involvement, stigma reduction and linkage to comprehensive PMTCT services is recommended.