Need of public health education intervention for better knowledge and practices against human Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis

Abstract

Taenia solium taeniasis/cysticercosis (TSTC) is reported to be endemic in pig producing areas around the world and cause significant public health burden and economic losses. In Tanzania, the parasite has been reported in many pig-raising areas calling for sustainable and cost-effective control approaches Poor knowledge,insufficient hygienic practices, and free range pig management are known to contribute in transmission of the parasite. Intervention in these factors can have a significant impact on the preventing transmission. This survey was conducted to assess the community knowledge and practices associated with human TSTC in Kongwa and Songwe Districts. A structured questionnaire was administered to 872 participants from 42 villages in the districts. The findings indicated that, community knowledge of human TSTC was limited in the study area, whereby a total of 539 (61.8%) participants had low knowledge. Regarding practices, the findings indicated that, a total of 653 (74.9%) participants had low level of practices related to human TSTC transmission. A total of 572 (65.6%) partcipants had low level of knowledge and preventive practices related to human TSTC. However Participants from Kongwa District and those with atleast primary level of education were likely to have higher level of knowledge and preventive practices. The study reveals a significant knowledge gap and adverse practices among participants hindering the effforts of controlling T. solium transmision. Since, the parasite poses a significant public health concern, the study suggests designing and implementation of public health education to a broad audience for effective public impact.