Knowledge, attitude and practice of personal hygiene among secondary school students in Anaocha local government area, Anambra state, Nigeria.

Abstract

Objective: This study seeks to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of personal hygiene and associated factors among secondary school students in Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. Methodology: Using a cross-sectional study design, a multistage sampling technique was used to sample 280 students in 3 selected secondary schools in Anaocha LGA. Data was collected using a semi structured self-administered questionnaire for a period of 3 weeks. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 21. Results: 56.3% of respondents(n=156) were females and mean age was 15.7 ±2years. A significant number of the respondents (99.3%) have good knowledge of personal hygiene and the source of their knowledge was mainly from their school and teachers by extension (69.3%). Majority could identify the components of personal hygiene and some of the consequences of lack of personal hygiene. 85.9% strongly approve of personal hygiene and (71.0%) think everybody should promote the practice of personal hygiene. Majority of the respondents practiced personal hygiene properly and adequately including having their bath daily 99.3%, brushing teeth (98.9%), washing fruits before eating them (83.0%) and washing hands after visiting the toilet (98.6%). Conclusion: The students of Anaocha local government area have good knowledge and attitude towards good hygiene and they have good personal hygiene practices. Recommendation: Personal hygiene should be incorporated into school’s curriculum at all levels. School managements can be encouraged to provide amenities within the school community that will enhance a good practice of personal hygiene