Background and study aim:
Mass drug administration (MDA) is the primary strategy for eliminating lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic regions. Sustained community participation and adherence are essential for interrupting transmission. However, behavioral determinants influencing MDA practice at the community level remain insufficiently understood. This study assessed factors associated with MDA practice in Pangani District, Tanga Region, Tanzania.
Patients and methods:
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 382 adults in Pangani District. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward MDA. A composite practice score was constructed from participation, adherence to instructions, and encouragement of others. Practice was categorised as good (score≥2) or poor (score <2). Associations were examined using chi-square tests and multivariable binomial logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.
Results:
Overall, 84.0% of participants demonstrated good practice toward MDA. Knowledge and attitude were significantly associated with practice in bivariate analysis (p<0.05). In multivariable analysis, knowledge remained the only independent predictor. Participants with low knowledge had significantly higher odds of poor practice compared to those with adequate knowledge (AOR =12.99; 95% CI: 5.32-31.74; p < 0.001). Gender, age, education level, and attitude were not independently associated with practice.
Conclusion:
Knowledge is the principal determinant of MDA-related practice in Pangani District. Strengthening community health education and targeted sensitization campaigns may substantially enhance participation and adherence, thereby accelerating lymphatic filariasis elimination efforts.
BT - Afro-Egyptian Journal of Infectious and Endemic Diseases DA - 07/2026 DO - 10.21608/aeji.2026.470116.1549 IS - 1 LA - ENG M3 - Article N2 -Background and study aim:
Mass drug administration (MDA) is the primary strategy for eliminating lymphatic filariasis (LF) in endemic regions. Sustained community participation and adherence are essential for interrupting transmission. However, behavioral determinants influencing MDA practice at the community level remain insufficiently understood. This study assessed factors associated with MDA practice in Pangani District, Tanga Region, Tanzania.
Patients and methods:
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 382 adults in Pangani District. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward MDA. A composite practice score was constructed from participation, adherence to instructions, and encouragement of others. Practice was categorised as good (score≥2) or poor (score <2). Associations were examined using chi-square tests and multivariable binomial logistic regression. Adjusted odds ratios (AORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.
Results:
Overall, 84.0% of participants demonstrated good practice toward MDA. Knowledge and attitude were significantly associated with practice in bivariate analysis (p<0.05). In multivariable analysis, knowledge remained the only independent predictor. Participants with low knowledge had significantly higher odds of poor practice compared to those with adequate knowledge (AOR =12.99; 95% CI: 5.32-31.74; p < 0.001). Gender, age, education level, and attitude were not independently associated with practice.
Conclusion:
Knowledge is the principal determinant of MDA-related practice in Pangani District. Strengthening community health education and targeted sensitization campaigns may substantially enhance participation and adherence, thereby accelerating lymphatic filariasis elimination efforts.
PB - Egyptian Knowledge Bank PY - 2026 SP - 1 EP - 11 T2 - Afro-Egyptian Journal of Infectious and Endemic Diseases TI - Predictors of Community Practice Toward Mass Drug Administration for Lymphatic Filariasis in Pangani District, Tanzania: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Study UR - https://aeji.journals.ekb.eg/article_513979_e75304f254be71950a6209a43cb3fbc9.pdf VL - 17 SN - 2090-7184 ER -