DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND COMMUNITY MEDICINE

Background: Social media addiction is a behavioural problem characterised by excessive, poorly controlled use of social media platforms that interferes with daily functioning and is associated with depression, anxiety, stress and reduced productivity among university students. It is common in young adults and is linked to long daily usage, night-time use and other behavioural patterns that worsen mental-health outcomes. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude, prevalence, patterns of social media addiction and its association with the mental health status of undergraduates in the University of Benin, Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Subjects and methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 548 undergraduates of the University of Benin selected using a multi-stage (proportionate stratified + systematic) sampling technique. Data were collected with a pre-tested, self- administered questionnaire (sociodemographics, knowledge and attitude sections) and standardised scales, the Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale (BSMAS) for addiction risk and the DASS-21 for depression, anxiety and stress. Data were presented in frequency tables and analysed using bivariate (χ²) tests and multivariable logistic regression; statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of respondents was 21.5 ± 2.9 years and 306 (55.8%) were females. Awareness of social media addiction was high (519, 94.7%). Majority had good knowledge of social media addiction (395, 76.1%) and a positive attitude towards it (396, 72.1%). By BSMAS grading, 127 (23.2%) were low-risk, 349 (63.7%) moderate-risk and 72 (13.1%) high-risk for social media addiction (social media addiction present = 72/548, 13.1%). On DASS-21 grading, 136 (24.8%) had d pression, 163 (29.7%) had anxiety, and 44 (8.0%) had stress; overall 200 (36.5%) were classified as having poor mental health while 348 (63.5%) xii had good mental health. Respondents with a positive attitude were more likely to have poor mental health (OR = 2.30, 95% CI = 1.382–3.734, p = 0.001) and respondents with social media addiction were substantially more likely to have poor mental health than those without (OR = 10.30, 95% CI = 5.337–19.914, p < 0.001). Social media addiction was also a strong predictor of specific outcomes anxiety (OR = 4.121, 95% CI = 2.324–7.305, p < 0.001) and stress (OR = 12.669, 95% CI = 5.386–29.804, p < 0.001). Other factors (monthly allowance, knowledge level, average daily hours and time of day of use) were associated with addiction risk and mental-health outcomes in bivariate and multivariable analyses. Conclusion: Awareness and knowledge of social media addiction were high among UNIBEN undergraduates, but about one in eight students met high-risk criteria for social media addiction and over one-third had poor overall mental health. Social media addiction together with attitude, knowledge and usage patterns was a strong predictor of poorer mental- health outcomes (depression, anxiety and stress). Interventions to improve digital-wellness (education on healthy use, time-management, sleep hygiene and targeted counselling) are recommended.

Background: Humam Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the most prevalent viral infection of the reproductive system. HPV is a sexually transmitted infection, and most people acquire it soon after becoming sexually active. HPV infection is the primary cause of almost all cervical cancers and certain HPV types also contribute to the development of cancers in the anus, vulva, vagina, penis, and oropharynx. Cervical cancer can be prevented through interventions such as health education, safe sex practices, and HPV vaccination.
Aim: The study evaluated the awareness about HPV vaccines, attitude towards HPV vaccination, the prevalence of HPV vaccination and associated factors among female secondary school students in Benin City, Edo State.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 330 secondary school students who were selected using multi-stage sampling technique. A pretested, structured interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, awareness and knowledge of HPV and HPV vaccination, attitudes towards HPV vaccination; and uptake of the vaccine. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0. Univariate analysis was used to assess the mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentages of variables. Bivariate analysis using chi-square test and Fischer’s Exact test were used to determine the association between respondent’s sociodemographic characteristics and knowledge, attitude, and uptake of HPV vaccination. Independent predictors of knowledge, attitude, and uptake of HPV vaccination were assessed using binary logistic regression. The level of statistical significance was set to p<0.05. Results were presented in prose, tables and charts.

Patient safety is central to quality healthcare delivery. Globally, unsafe care contributes significantly to morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. In low- and middle-income countries like Nigeria, challenges such as weak reporting systems, staff shortages, and limited training heighten risks. Doctors, as frontline caregivers, are pivotal to improving safety standards, but evidence on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices within Nigerian contexts remains limited

BACKGROUND: Body Mass Index (BMI) is a widely used measure of nutritional status and health risk, categorized as underweight, normal weight, overweight, and obesity. Abnormal BMI values have significant health implications, including increased risk for non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and bone-related disorders. Among university undergraduates, lifestyle changes, dietary patterns, and perceptions of weight￾for-height influence BMI status, making it important to assess knowledge, prevalence, perceptions, and determinants. OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the knowledge of health implications of abnormal BMI, prevalence of BMI categories, perception of personal weight-for-height, and determinants of BMI status among undergraduates in the University of Benin. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 350 undergraduate students of the University of Benin between September 2024 and August 2025. Respondents were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured self-administered questionnaire adapted from related studies. Knowledge was scored and categorized into good or poor, while perception of BMI was assessed by comparing self￾reported weight-for-height classification with actual BMI. Anthropometric data were self￾reported and BMI was calculated. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25.0 with descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analyses. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Ethical approval was obtained from the University of Benin Teaching Hospital Ethics and Research Committee. RESULTS: The mean age ± SD of respondents was 21.0 ± 2.85 years. The majority of respondents 272 (77.7%) demonstrated good knowledge of abnormal BMI, while 78 (22.3%) had xiii poor knowledge. A significant proportion 263 (75.1%) had normal BMI, while 87 (24.9%) had abnormal BMI, comprising 36 (10.3%) underweight, 35 (10.0%) overweight, and 16 (4.6%), (27.1%) misperceived their weight status. Age (p < 0.001), degree programme (p < 0.001), academic level (p < 0.001), marital status (p = 0.028), residence (p = 0.001), source of income (p < 0.001), and monthly income (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with knowledge of abnormal BMI. Gender (p < 0.001), age group (p < 0.001), programme of study (p = 0.003), academic level (p < 0.001), marital status (p = 0.012), residence (p = 0.007), source of income (p = 0.003), and monthly income (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with perception of BMI. Logistic regression revealed that age, sex, academic level, and income significantly influenced BMI status and perception. CONCLUSION: The study revealed that most undergraduates had good knowledge of abnormal BMI and a majority had normal BMI, though a considerable proportion were underweight, overweight, or obese. While perception of weight-for-height was correct among most respondents, misperception remained notable. Socio-demographic factors including age, sex, programme of study, academic level, and income were significant determinants of knowledge, BMI, and perception. Strengthening targeted health education, encouraging healthy dietary practices, and promoting physical activity among undergraduates are critical in preventing abnormal BMI and its long-term health consequences.

Background: Physical inactivity is a major global public health concern, contributing to the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and premature mortality. Despite the widely acknowledged importance of sporting activities for physical, mental, and social well-being, there is a dearth of comprehensive data on the participation of undergraduate students in Nigeria. Understanding the role of sports among this population is crucial for developing effective health promotion strategies. Objectives: To assess the role of sporting activities among undergraduate students in selected tertiary institutions in Benin City in order to inform policy and program development regarding sports. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 undergraduate students in selected tertiary institutions in Benin City, Edo State. Data was collected using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire. The study utilized the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), the Exercise Benefits and Barriers Scale (EBBS), and the Academic Achievement Questionnaire (AAQ) as tools. Data was entered and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25.0. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was conducted, with the level of significance set at p < 0.05. Results: The mean age of respondents was 21.95 ± 2.834 years, with a slight predominance of females 207 (51.7%). Knowledge of sporting activities was poor with only a little over one-third 147 (36.8%) of the undergraduates demonstrating good knowledge of sporting activities. Majority 292 (73.0%) of undergraduates expressed a positive attitude towards sporting activities. Only 135 (33.8%) of the undergraduates participated in sporting activities. The most common sports were running (49.8%), football (45.8%), and high jump (41.1%). Key determinants of 1 non-participation included lack of time and heavy academic workload. Students who engaged in sporting activities had better academic performance compared to those who did not, though it was not statistically significant. Conclusion: Although undergraduate students largely possess a positive attitude towards sporting activities, their knowledge is low and participation is low. The study highlights the need for structured interventions to improve knowledge and remove the structural barriers to participation, which, in turn, contribute positively to the academic performance of students.

Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age globally, yet a significant proportion remains undiagnosed due to insufficient baseline knowledge regarding its causes and symptoms. This lack of awareness contributes to delayed medical attention and progression of the disease, leading to serious long-term complications such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, hypercholesterolemia, and endometrial cancer. Studies in Nigeria indicate particularly low awareness levels, underscoring a critical public health challenge.
Objective: This study aimed to comprehensively assess the knowledge and awareness of the causes, symptoms, and long-term complications and determinants of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome among female undergraduate students at the University of Benin, Edo State, Nigeria with a view to generate evidence that will guide the design of tailored strategies aimed at increasing awareness and strengthen healthcare delivery. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed, targeting female undergraduate students at the University of Benin. Data collection occurred between April 2024 and June 2025. A sample size of 415 respondents was determined using Cochran's formula and a 10% non-response adjustment. A multi-stage sampling technique involved the simple random selection of the Ugbowo campus, followed by the random selection of eight faculties. Information was collected using a 29-item structured questionnaire, and data analysis was performed using SPSS V 25.0 to generate percentages and frequencies.
Results: Over half of the respondents (54%) reported having heard of PCOS, with approximately twothirds (60.7%) demonstrating good baseline knowledge of its causes and symptoms, while one-third (39.3%) exhibited poor knowledge. Abnormal menstruation (40.7%) was identified as the most common symptom, overproduction of hormones (36.9%) and genetics (35.4%) were frequently cited causes. Drugs (46.7%) was perceived as the most effective treatments. Regarding awareness of complications, 46.4% showed good awareness, while 53.6% lacked sufficient awareness particularly concerning infertility. Social media (especially TikTok and WhatsApp at 42.9% and 21.0% respectively) was the primary source of PCOS, followed by medical professionals. The key predictors of good knowledge included being in a medical related field like Medicine (OR = 0.033, p = 0.001) and a higher monthly allowance above N20,000. N20,000 – N50,000 (OR = 0.379, p = 0.002) and N51,000 – N100,000 (OR = 0.059, p <0.001).
Conclusion: The study revealed moderate knowledge but a significant gap in awareness regarding PCOS complications among female university students, compounded by reliance on non-medical information sources and prevalent misconceptions. Academic background and socioeconomic status were influential factors in knowledge levels. These findings necessitate targeted public health interventions, including integrating comprehensive PCOS education into university curricula, launching official social media campaigns led by healthcare professionals, organizing workshops, encouraging routine health screenings, and promoting mental health support services for affected individuals

Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality among men worldwide. Early detection through screening plays a crucial role in reducing complications and improving survival outcomes. However, awareness, knowledge, and attitudes toward prostate cancer screening remain limited in many populations, particularly among occupational groups with demanding work schedules such as transport drivers. This study assesses the knowledge and attitudes toward prostate cancer and the utilization of screening services among intercity and interstate public transport drivers in Benin City, Edo State.

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was adopted for this research. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to intercity and interstate public transport drivers operating within major motor parks in Benin City. The questionnaire assessed respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of prostate cancer, attitudes toward the disease and its screening, and their utilization of available screening services. Data obtained were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods to determine levels of awareness, knowledge, attitudes, and screening practices.

The findings of the study are expected to reveal the level of knowledge and misconceptions about prostate cancer among transport drivers, their attitudes toward preventive health practices, and the extent to which they utilize screening services. The results will also help identify barriers that may prevent drivers from accessing screening services.

The study concludes that improving awareness and promoting positive attitudes toward prostate cancer screening among transport drivers is essential for early detection and prevention. It is recommended that targeted health education campaigns, workplace health programs, and improved access to screening services be implemented to encourage regular prostate cancer screening among this population group.

Abortion remains a significant public health concern, especially among young women of reproductive age in developing countries where access to reproductive health
services is limited and social stigma is pervasive. Female undergraduates are particularly vulnerable due to early sexual debut, inadequate contraceptive use, and socio-cultural pressures. This study assessed the prevalence and patterns of abortion among female undergraduates at the University of Benin, Edo State. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was employed. Data were obtained from 550 randomly selected female undergraduates across eight faculties and eight departments using
structured questionnaires. Information collected included socio-demographic characteristics, sexual and reproductive history, contraceptive use, and abortion experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests with SPSS version 23.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 550 respondents participated, yielding a 100% response rate. The mean
age was 22.3 ± 3.5 years, with the majority aged 20–24 years. About 30% reported previous pregnancy, and all such cases ended in abortion. Most abortions were performed in hospitals (37.6%) and chemist shops (31.5%), predominantly during the first trimester (93.9%). Doctors (57.6%) and chemists (29.1%) were the main providers. Male condoms (25.6%) were the most frequently used contraceptive, mainly sourced from pharmacies. A significant association was found between contraceptive use and prevalence of abortion (p < 0.05). Cultural and religious beliefs, as well as partner involvement in decision-making, also influenced abortion and contraceptive practices. Conclusion: Abortion is prevalent among female undergraduates of the University of Benin, with most procedures occurring under medical supervision but a substantial proportion still being unsafe. Improving access to reproductive health education, contraception, and safe abortion services is essential to reduce associated risks and complications.

Background: The need and demand for health care services is a constant part of our lives in the modern day world and both patients’ perception of and satisfaction with the quality of care they receive influence several aspects of how they interact with the health care system. With the backdrop of notable challenges facing the health care sector in our environment including being
overburdened by common communicable and non-communicable diseases, poor infrastructure, poor availability of personnel, under investment in the sector and a very high prevalence of out- of-pocket payments which may all contribute to poor satisfaction and perception of health care facilities Objectives: To assess the perception of and satisfaction with health services among out-patients in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City in order to improve out-patients’ experience with health care services. Materials and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was utilized for this study. Three hundred and forty participants were selected using multi-stage sampling techniques. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire comprising both
opened ended and closed questions. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25.0 and a p <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The mean age group of the respondents was 37.14 ± 12.38 years. Out of the total
respondents, 336 (98.8%) had good perception with UBTH out-patient services while 4 (1.2%) had poor perception with UBTH out-patient services. Three hundred and twenty three (95.0%) of them had good satisfaction while 17 (5.0%) had poor satisfaction with UBTH out-patient vii services. It was identified that religion and level of education were the significant factors affecting perception as their p value were < 0.05. Also, from the study religion, level of education, skill level and number of clinic visit were positively associated with satisfaction
regarding UBTH out-patient services.
Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had good perception and satisfaction about out- patient
services in UBTH. This is due to the attitude and behavior of the healthcare professionals which plays a significant role in out- patient satisfaction. The study demonstrated that individuals' religious affiliations, gender, level of education, and the frequency of clinic visits collectively contribute to shaping their experiences within the healthcare system.

Background: The Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes more than 95% of cervical cancer worldwide. HPV infection is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract. In Nigeria, prevalence is high across all female age groups, but is highest among persons aged 15-23 years. Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide and the most common cancer of the female reproductive tract. HPV-related diseases including cervical cancer can successfully be prevented by prophylactic vaccination. Objective: To determine the knowledge, sociocultural barriers, and hesitancy to HPV vaccine among caregivers of adolescents in Benin city, in order to decrease the burden of cervical cancer in Nigeria. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 397 caregivers of adolescents in Evboumore community, selected using multi-staged sampling technique. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires with open and close ended questions. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for the International Business Machines Corporation Social Science (IBM SPSS) version 25.0 software with statistical significance set at p < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval. Results: The response rate was 100%. Most of the respondents in this study were between the age group of 30 – 39 years with mean age (±SD) of 39.89 ± 8.97. Majority of the respondents had poor knowledge about HPV (72.8%) and HPV vaccine (80.9%). This study identified distance, misinformation and unavailability of the vaccines as the major sociocultural barriers to HPV vaccination. And 41.4% expressed hesitance towards future HPV vaccination of their adolescents.
Conclusion: Most of the respondents were not aware of HPV and HPV vaccine. Majority of the respondents had poor knowledge concerning HPV and HPV vaccine. Distance, misinformation and unavailability of the vaccines were identified as the major sociocultural barriers to HPV vaccination. About half of the respondents were vaccine hesitant