A cross-sectional assessment of public knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of endocrine-disrupting compounds in Abeokuta, Nigeria

Endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs) pose significant public health risks, and everyday consumer products and contact materials are important pathways for exposure. Yet, public awareness in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) remains virtually uncharacterized despite substantial and increasing population exposures. Hence, we assessed product use, knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions (KAP) related to EDCs in Abeokuta, Nigeria–a microcosm of SSA settings. This cross-sectional survey recruited 786 adults from three zones representing rural ( n = 312), industrial ( n = 237), and urban ( n = 237) contexts. Participants completed structured questionnaires assessing EDC knowledge, usage of EDC-containing products, attitudes toward risk mitigation, and risk perceptions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Spearman correlations, and ordinal logistic regression. Product usage was widespread: 97.3% used bottled/sachet water, 82.8% cleaning products, and 75.2% plastic containers. Knowledge was poor, with 48.5% demonstrating low knowledge and only 6.5% high knowledge. Correct response rates ranged from 18.3% (identifying non-EDC compounds) to 75.6% (recognising health risks). Attitudes were generally health-protective (54.6% positive), though only 56.9% reported active avoidance efforts. Optimism bias was evident: 93.1% acknowledged EDC health consequences, yet 54.2% perceived personal exposure as low. Urban residence (OR = 1.67, p = 0.005) and tertiary education (OR = 1.88, p = 0.007) predicted better knowledge. Males had 2.64 times higher odds of negative attitudes ( p < 0.001), while younger adults (18–25 years) had 4.44 times higher odds versus the elderly ( p = 0.004). Substantial knowledge deficits coexist with pervasive EDC exposure in Abeokuta, Nigeria. Targeted interventions addressing both knowledge gaps and structural barriers are urgently needed to reduce population-level exposure in SSA settings.