Knowledge and Perception of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis among Key Populations in Katagum Local Government Area, Bauchi State

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.