Osuolale Bolatito Tundun is working on her  HD at the age of 39 years from Federal University of Technology, FUTA, Akure Ondo State. She is an assistant lecturer in the department of health sciences, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, Nigeria. She has five publications. She is a young researcher aiming to learn and achieve greatly in the future.

knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of HIV-Hepatitis Co-infection among Expectant Women attending Health Facilities in Ekiti South Senatorial District, Ekiti State.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are blood-borne infections that are extremely dangerous to human health, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, Nigeria, particularly in endemic regions such as Ekiti State where the infection is still a major public health concern. Mother-to-child transmission is the main mode of transmission, and it is most common in pregnant African women. Pregnant women's knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding HBV, HCV, HIV infection, and mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) are poorly understood despite various control measures, the disease persists, necessitating a better understanding of pregnant women receiving prenatal care's knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) related to HIV-Hepatitis B and C. This study assesses the influence of demographic factors, socioeconomic status, and prevalence of HIV-Hepatitis B and C in relation to area of residence in Ekiti State. A cross-sectional KAP study was conducted among 620 pregnant women recruited from selected health facilities in Ekiti South Senatorial District, Ekiti State between January to December, 2024. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect demographic information and data on HIV-Hepatitis B and C knowledge, attitudes, and practices. HIV-Hepatitis B and C prevalence was determined using Rapid Diagnostic Tests. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with significance set at p≤0.05. The total response rate was 100% (620/620). Knowledge about HBV, HCV and HIV among pregnant women was found to be moderately satisfactory, their attitude is acceptable, and their practices were subpar. The overall prevalence rate of Hepatitis B, C and HIV was 28(4.52%), 0(0%) and 17(2.74%) respectively. Considering the area of residence, 12(1.94%) of them were tested positive for hepatitis B in rural area and 16(4.70%) in the urban area. Therefore, a comprehensive health education program should be given to pregnant women to increase their awareness. Enhancing access to effective Hepatitis B, C and HIV prevention strategies are important for reducing the disease burden in Ekiti State. Since the majority of pregnant women were tested but were unaware of it, hence health professionals should get them informed about the tests that were performed on them.

Keywords: Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS, Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, Ekiti State.

Osuolale Bolatito Tundun