ASSESSMENT OF THE AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE TOWARDS WATER BORNE DISEASES AMONG RESIDENTS OF UGBOR COMMUNITY, OREDO LGA, EDO STATE.

ABSTRACT Background: Waterborne diseases remain a significant public health concern, especially in communities with inadequate water supply and sanitation infrastructure. These diseases are prevalent in areas where access to clean drinking water and proper sanitation practices are limited, leading to the transmission of various infections. Objective: This study aims to assess the level of awareness and attitude towards waterborne diseases among residents of Ugbor Community, Oredo LGA, Edo State, Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, targeting residents of Ugbor Community, Oredo LGA. A cluster sampling technique was used to select a sample size of 146 residents. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire designed to capture quantitative information on awareness and attitudes towards waterborne diseases. The collected data were entered and analyzed using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) software version 26.0, with results presented in descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The findings revealed that a majority (89.7%) of respondents had heard of waterborne diseases, with healthcare personnel (71.2%), social media (56.8%), and TV/radio (50.7%) being the main sources of information. However, only 27% of respondents exhibited a good level of awareness, while 25% had a moderate level of awareness, and 49% had a poor level of awareness. Despite this, 87% of the respondents showed a positive attitude towards waterborne diseases. Misconceptions were identified, such as 42.5% of respondents incorrectly believing that waterborne diseases could be transmitted from person to person. Awareness was highest for diarrhea (82.9%) and cholera (80.1%), with lower awareness levels for dysentery (70.5%) and typhoid (66.4%). Significant relationships were found between awareness and socio-demographic factors such as age (P = 0.05), education level (P = 0.00), and monthly income (P = 0.00). Discussion: The study indicates a high level of general awareness about waterborne diseases among the residents of Ugbor Community. However, significant gaps in knowledge and misconceptions persist, particularly regarding the transmission, symptoms, and treatment options for waterborne diseases. The discussion highlights that younger respondents and those with higher education levels tend to have better awareness. However, the study found no significant relationship between awareness and attitude, suggesting that other factors, such as cultural beliefs and access to resources, may influence preventive behaviors. Conclusion: While the study revealed a generally high level of awareness of waterborne diseases, it also identified critical areas where knowledge is lacking, especially regarding the transmission and prevention of these diseases. The positive attitude towards prevention observed in the community suggests a receptive environment for public health interventions. To effectively reduce the burden of waterborne diseases in Ugbor Community, targeted educational campaigns should be implemented to address specific knowledge gaps, correct misconceptions, and promote the adoption of preventive measures.