Effects of training on the WHO package of essential interventions on NCDS prevention and control on the clinical practices of primary health care workers in Benue state

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a growing health challenge globally, especially in low-resource settings such as Nigeria. Primary healthcare workers (PHCWs) are critical to NCD prevention and control, but often lack adequate knowledge and skills. The World Health Organisation’s Package of Essential Non-Communicable Disease Interventions (WHO PEN) aims to address these gaps. Objective: To evaluate the impact of WHO PEN training on the knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices of PHCWs in Benue State, Nigeria, and to identify factors associated with these preventive practices. Methods: A quasi-experimental study with 400 PHCWs compared WHO PEN-trained (experimental) and untrained (control) groups using structured questionnaires on NCD knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Chi-square and regression analyses assessed sociodemographic influences. Results: Findings showed that baseline NCD knowledge was high, aligning with national guidelines. Post-training, all participants showed good understanding, with no poor knowledge. Attitudes improved significantly, with 100% positive views on counselling, tobacco cessation, and patient education. Clinical practices varied: patient education improved, but routine BP screening remained low. Older and higher-cadre workers performed better, while sex and experience had no significant impact. Conclusion: WHO PEN training boosted PHCWs' knowledge, attitudes, and clinical practices in NCD prevention in Benue State. While baseline knowledge was strong, the intervention improved confidence and practice consistency, particularly in patient education. Tailoring training for younger, less experienced workers, addressing resource constraints, and sustaining professional development are key to enhancing NCD care. The study recommended that expanding professional development programs in underserved areas is vital to reducing Nigeria's NCD burden.