Awareness

The data gathered from the survey of University of Benin students highlights significant insights regarding the factors contributing to drug abuse, its prevalence, and the impact of awareness campaigns. A total of 100 respondents participated, with a fairly balanced distribution of 47% male and 53% female students. The majority of respondents were below 18 years of age (36%), followed by those aged 18-22 years (28%). The survey also included students from various academic levels, with the largest group being in the 400 level (26%). In terms of reasons for drug abuse, peer pressure emerged as the dominant factor, with 76% of respondents acknowledging its influence. Curiosity and the easy availability of drugs on campus were also significant contributors, while academic stress and anxiety were less frequently cited as reasons for drug use. Despite these factors, a majority did not view drug abuse as a widespread issue at the university, with only 34% agreeing that many students were involved in drug abuse. Awareness campaigns, although successful in informing students about the dangers of drug abuse, have had limited success in changing behaviors. While 78% of respondents agreed that campaigns have raised awareness, only 10% felt that these initiatives have significantly reduced drug abuse. Additionally, most students believe that the campaigns need to be improved to reach a larger audience and to be more effective in changing attitudes toward drug use. Overall, while the campaigns have made progress in educating students, there remains a significant gap in their ability to influence behaviour and reduce drug abuse.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) testing has become an essential tool in resolving disputes of biological relationships, particularly maternity and paternity cases, with significant social, legal, and emotional implications. In Nigeria, cultural traditions, limited awareness, and socioeconomic challenges influence the acceptance and accessibility of DNA technology. This study therefore aimed to assess the perception and awareness of DNA testing for resolving maternal and paternal disputes among residents of Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was employed. A total of one hundred and fifty-one (151) adult residents of Benin City were recruited using a random sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured 22- item questionnaire covering demographics, awareness, knowledge, and perceptions of DNA testing. Responses were analyzed with the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, using Chi-square tests with significance set at p < 0.05. The findings revealed that 86.7% of respondents had heard of DNA testing being used to resolve maternity and paternity disputes, but only 34.7% reported personal or second-hand involvement. While 83.3% correctly identified DNA testing as a method to confirm biological relationships, only 42.0% were aware of existing facilities in Benin City. Practical exposure was limited, as just 28.0% had visited or knew someone who had visited a DNA testing facility. Nonetheless, perceptions were largely positive, with 71.3% affirming that DNA testing could accurately resolve disputes, and 79.4% expressing willingness to learn more about its applications. Knowledge gaps persisted, as 39.3% believed external factors could affect accuracy, with laboratory error most frequently mentioned. In conclusion, this study revealed that awareness and positive perceptions of DNA testing are high among Benin City residents, but actual utilization and technical understanding remain limited. The results underscore the need for public education, expanded access to affordable DNA
facilities, and integration of counseling and ethical safeguards to enhance acceptance and prevent misuse. These findings highlight DNA testing’s potential as a reliable, culturally sensitive tool for resolving family disputes in Nigeria.

The purpose of the study was to find out the awareness and effectiveness of environmental education among undergraduates in the university of Benin. Further, four (4) research questions were raised and analyzed to guide this study. The descriptive survey research design was adopted for this study.The population comprised (44140) undergraduates students across all faculties at the University of Benin . A Simple random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 150 students from four faculties(Education(7416), Agriculture(1685), Physical Science(3283) and Engineering(5481) ) . A self structured questionnaire with two sections was used as the research instrument to collect data from the sample population. The validity of the instrument was confirmed by the supervisor and two other experts in the area of health safety and environmental education. The reliability of the instrument was tested using the testretest method. The questionnaire was administered via Google forms to facilitate data collection and a period of one week was used for distribute and collect of the questionnaire. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequency counts and percentage The findings of the study revealed that there is a high level of awareness but low effectiveness of environmental education among undergraduates in the university of Benin. While environmental issues is been known to high level of undergraduates in the university community, lack of interest among students reduces the impact of the programmes. It was also indicated in the study that poor funding or lack of resources reduces the success of environmental education programmes, the study, it also detected in the study that the altitude of lecturers or facilitators influences how much is learnt in environmental programmes. The researcher concludes that there is high level of awareness on environmental issues among students in the school community but low effectiveness and action of environmental programmes due to poor funding and lack of resources in environmental education programmes that will later lead lack of interest among students on issues that concerns the environment, some students are eager to adopt environmental practices, but poor funding and lack of resources reduces the success of environmental education programmes, and the content of current environmental education programmes are not made more practical and action based as it should be. The researcher also recommended that the content of current environmental education programmes should be made more practical and action based, and including reallife environmental case studies.

Urban agriculture (UA) has become an increasingly important livelihood, nutritional, and resilience strategy among households in Nigeria’s rapidly urbanizing cities. However, its uptake among educated professionals including university staff remains insufficiently documented. This study investigated the awareness, perception, and involvement in urban agriculture among academic and non-academic staff of the University of Benin, Nigeria, focusing on two contrasting faculties: Agriculture (agri culturally oriented) and Social Sciences (non-agriculturally oriented). A total of 74 respondents, representing 20% of the total staff, were selected using random sampling. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on socioeconomic characteristics, awareness, perception, level of involvement, motivations, and challenges. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient (PPMC), independent t-test, and logistic regression, with significance set at 5% (p < 0.05) and processed using SPSS Version 29. Findings show that UA participation cuts across diverse demographic groups but is dominated by middle-aged (mean = 45 years) and male staff (68.9%), most of whom are married (93.2%). Respondents were highly educated, with 50% holding BSc/HND, 27% MSc, and 16.2% PhD degrees, yet earned relatively modest monthly incomes ranging from ₦20,000 to ₦69,999, indicating that UA functions as an essential coping strategy within the university community. Most staff had worked for 11–15 years (55.4%), suggesting residential and occupational stability that supports UA engagement. Awareness of UA was moderately high (66.2%), with colleagues (55.4%) and social media (48.6%) serving as the primary information channels. However, formal exposure to agricultural training was almost absent only 5.4% had ever attended a UA workshop, and no respondent reported contact with extension agents. Institutional awareness was also low, with only 20.3% recognizing UA activities within the university

This study titled "Awareness, Attitudes, and Practices of Breast Self-Examination among Female Students in the University of Benin Halls of Residence" aims to assess the level of knowledge, attitudes, and regular practice of BSE among young women in a Nigerian university setting, with the primary goal of identifying gaps that hinder early breast cancer detection and informing targeted health education interventions. The research is grounded in behavioral theories such as the Health Belief Model and the Theory of Planned Behavior to explore the cognitive, emotional, and socio-cultural factors influencing BSE practices among this population. It employs a cross-sectional survey design utilizing structured questionnaires administered to female students residing in the university halls of residence, with data analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistical methods to determine awareness levels, attitudes, and practice patterns. The findings reveal that while a significant proportion of the students have heard of BSE, actual practice remains low, with only a minority performing it regularly and correctly. Common barriers identified include lack of adequate knowledge, cultural taboos related to modesty, fear of discovering abnormalities, and insufficient privacy, all of which contribute to poor engagement in BSE. Based on these results, the study recommends implementing culturally sensitive health education programs within university settings to improve awareness and correct misconceptions about BSE, emphasizing the importance of regular practice for early detection of breast abnormalities. It also suggests the need for policy-level interventions to create private and supportive environments that facilitate proper BSE practices among young women to reduce the incidence and mortality associated with breast cancer.

Kidney disease is increasingly linked to lifestyle choices such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and inadequate hydration. This study assessed the awareness of the perceived impact of lifestyle on the incidence of kidney disease among Faculty of Arts students in a tertiary educational institution in Benin City. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was adopted, involving 329 students selected through a multi-stage stratified random sampling technique from the Departments of English and Literature (34%) and History and International Studies (66%). Data were collected using a structured questionnaire validated for reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.701)and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS. The findings revealed that
85.8% of respondents were aware that lifestyle choices influence kidney disease risk, while 81.2% recognized the importance of hydration. However, only 4.2% reported learning about kidney health in their studies. Regarding lifestyle habits, 83.9% limited processed food intake, 80% maintained adequate hydration, but only 53.5% exercised regularly. A majority (82.4%)believed kidney disease is preventable through healthy lifestyles, yet just 50.1% possessed adequate knowledge of its risk factors. Additionally, 83.6% supported more health campaigns, and 72.4% agreed kidney health education should be part of theuniversity curriculum. Chi- square tests indicated significant relationships between awareness of lifestyle impact and both gender (χ² =8.088, p = 0.044) and age (χ² = 84.097, p = 0.000). Overall, 64.4% were willing to attend kidney health seminars, and 85.7% desired more information. The study concludes that while awareness of lifestyle-related kidney health is generally positive, knowledge gaps persist, underscoring the need for targeted health education and inclusion of kidney health topics in tertiary curricula.

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

Sickle cell disease (SCD) poses a significant public health challenge in Nigeria due to its genetic nature, high prevalence, and associated morbidity. Despite increasing awareness campaigns, many individuals still fail to comply with preventive measures such as premarital screening. This study investigated the relationship between awareness and compliance towards premarital sickle cell screening among unmarried students in the Faculty of Arts, University of Benin, Edo State. A correlational design was adopted, and 350 participants were selected using multistage sampling. Data were collected using structured questionnaires
and analyzed using SPSS version 24.0, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests applied. The findings revealed a high level of awareness regarding SCD and premarital screening among respondents; however, compliance was moderate. Although many students knew their genotype and acknowledged the importance of screening, cultural, emotional, and social factors still hindered full compliance. Statistical analysis showed no significant relationship between awareness and compliance (p = 0.067). The study concludes that awareness alone does not guarantee compliance, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions that address behavioral, cultural, and emotional barriers to effective screening practices.

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

Eye safety is an important aspect of occupational and academic health, particularly in practical fields such as agriculture where students are frequently exposed to dust, chemicals, sharp tools, and other potential hazards that may cause eye injuries. This study examines the level of awareness of eye safety practices among students in the Faculty of Agriculture. The study aims to determine students’ knowledge of eye safety measures, their attitudes toward eye protection, and the extent to which they adopt preventive practices during agricultural activities and practical sessions.

A descriptive survey research design was employed for the study. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaires administered to students in the Faculty of Agriculture. The questionnaire assessed respondents’ awareness of eye hazards, knowledge of protective measures, and their compliance with recommended eye safety practices. The data obtained were analyzed using appropriate descriptive statistical methods.

The findings of the study are expected to reveal the level of awareness of eye safety practices among agriculture students and identify possible gaps in knowledge and practice. The study emphasizes the importance of promoting eye safety education and encouraging the use of protective equipment to reduce the risk of eye injuries among students. It is recommended that institutions incorporate eye safety awareness programs and enforce the use of protective gear during practical agricultural activities.