Knowledge, Attitude, and Perception of Common Skin Health Problems among Secondary Schools Students in Anaocha Local Government Area, Southeast Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dermatological conditions are commonly associated with low mortality rates, but they significantly contribute to morbidity globally. The burden of certain common skin diseases is remarkably higher among adolescents, and associated with psychosocial and physical impacts. This study was aimed at assessing the knowledge, attitude, and perception of common skin diseases among secondary school students in Anaocha. Methodology: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study among 395 secondary school students in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra state using a multistage stratified sampling technique with an interviewer-administered, semi-structured questionnaire. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 25. Results: There were 178 (45.1%) males and 217 (54.9%) females with an average age of 14.27 years ± 1.52. The respondents’ knowledge of acne, tinea capitis, and scabies was found to have an overall score of 43.29% ± 13.26. 78.2% of respondents showed a strong perception of common skin health challenges, and 84.3% showed a decisive attitude toward them. The level of knowledge was significantly associated with the student’s academic class and gender. Conclusion: Overall knowledge of common skin conditions was poor and there was a high rate of misconceptions along with the tendency for self-medication. Though most respondents showed a decisive attitude towards these conditions, there is a high potential for neglect of care for skin diseases in general including sinister ones. Therefore, health education on common skin conditions should be intensified within all secondary schools in Anambra state to improve the knowledge of students on these important conditions.