The Assessment of the Knowledge, Attitudes and Perceptions of Health Workers towards Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) in Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract Background Urogenital schistosomiasis is endemic in Nigeria, particularly in Atiba and Iseyin Local Government Areas, where infection levels are elevated. Female genital schistosomiasis (FGS), a neglected tropical disease (NTD), has received minimal attention in primary healthcare centres in Nigeria. Objective This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of health workers in Atiba and Iseyin LGAs, Oyo State, Nigeria, regarding Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS) to inform future interventions Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 60 of 95 health workers responsible for providing care to schistosomiasis-affected individuals in endemic settings. Pretested questionnaires were used to assess their awareness and knowledge of FGS, as well as their expertise in identifying and managing the disease. Results The results of this study showed that while 96.7% of health workers demonstrated adequate knowledge of urogenital schistosomiasis, only 43.3% (p = 0.298) were knowledgeable about FGS. A significant misconception existed, with 39 (65%, 95% CI = 52.93–77.07) believing that FGS was sexually transmitted. Health workers expressed strong agreement that additional training is necessary to manage FGS effectively (χ² = 1.12 ± 0.324, p < 0.05). Similarly, they identified significant barriers to diagnosing and treating FGS (mean = 2.78 ± 1.378, p < 0.05). Conclusions Awareness and knowledge of FGS among health workers in Atiba and Iseyin LGAs, Oyo State were found to be insufficient. To address this gap, it is essential to invest in capacity-building initiatives for health workers, which should include training in the use of diagnostic tools like colposcopy to improve disease recognition and management.