Assessing Public Knowledge and Awareness of Respiratory Diseases in Bayelsa State

ABSTRACT: Background: Respiratory diseases remain a major public health challenge, particularly in regions affected by environmental pollution. Bayelsa State, located in Nigeria’s Niger Delta, experiences high levels of air pollution due to oil exploration, gas flaring, and artisanal crude oil refining, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses. However, public knowledge and awareness of respiratory diseases, their risk factors, and prevention remain inadequately explored. This study assesses the level of awareness, knowledge gaps, and sources of health information among residents of Bayelsa State. Methods: A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 428 adult residents selected through multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire covering demographics, disease awareness, risk perception, and health information sources. Descriptive statistics was used to used to analyze the data and findings are presented in frequency distribution tables and chart. Results: Although 91.3% of respondents were aware of respiratory diseases, only 47.5% correctly identified air pollution as a risk factor, and 33.9% linked household cooking fuels to respiratory conditions. The primary sources of health information were radio/TV (62.5%) and healthcare workers (51.8%), while environmental agencies had low engagement (19.6%). Conclusion: Despite high awareness of respiratory diseases, knowledge gaps persist regarding environmental risk factors. Targeted health education, environmental awareness programs, and stronger policy interventions are needed to improve public understanding and preventive behaviors in Bayelsa State.