Investigating Fertility Health Knowledge and Lifestyle Risk Factors among Nigerian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
No Thumbnail Available
Files
Date
2024
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health
Abstract
Objectives:
Adolescents who are unaware of infertility risk factors and the long-term health effects of their lifestyle choices may participate in unsafe sexual and lifestyle behaviors. Their reproductive goals and health may be affected by such behaviors. Adolescents’ awareness of male and female infertility risk factors was assessed, along with lifestyle risk variables related to sexual behavior and psychoactive substance use. The causes
of inconsistent condom use were also examined.
Methods:
In 2022, a cross-sectional survey was undertaken involving 598 sexually active university students from Nigeria (18.6 years±0.9), the majority of whom were female (57.2 %). Descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and binary logistic regression were utilized in the data analysis to
determine the influence of lifestyle factors and levels of knowledge on fertility.
Results:
Most participants had a moderate understanding of male and female infertility risk factors. The results showed that female students were more informed. Multiple sexual partners and psychoactive substance use were common lifestyle variables. Younger female students, those with
several partners, and participants who frequently used alcohol and narcotics used condoms inconsistently.
Conclusions:
The study emphasizes the need for fertility health and lifestyle risk education for Nigerian youth. Despite moderate knowledge, lifestyle implications on fertility are unclear. Fertility health education in schools could help students make informed reproductive choices
and lower the risk of infertility and chronic diseases. Research is needed to confirm findings and inform nationwide targeted interventions.
Description
Keywords
Citation
Olubukola A. Wellington (2024). Investigating Fertility Health Knowledge and Lifestyle Risk Factors among Nigerian University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. International Journal of Adolescent Medicine and Health, 36(3), 251-258. doi: 10.1515/ijamh-2024-0020