Knowledge of oral lesions, associated risk factors and health care seeking behaviors among HIV enrollees in Osun-State.

Authors

Mufutau Bello, Adeniran Elizabeth, Olarewaju Sunday, Oyeneyin Adenike, Agboola Oluwaferanmi, Oluyide Peter, Olajuwon Towoju, Alebiosu Christopher, Adepoju Gbenga, Oyelola Adeoye, Adedire Adejare, Faniyi Akinwale

Published in

BMC public health. Jul 20, 2026. Epub Jul 20, 2026.

Abstract

Oral lesions are frequent complications of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, particularly among individuals with advanced immunosuppression. These lesions reduce quality of life and increase vulnerability to secondary infections. This study assessed knowledge, risk factors, and healthcare-seeking behavior related to oral lesions among HIV enrollees in Osun State, Nigeria.
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 HIV-positive adults with clinically confirmed oral lesions attending selected Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinics in Osun State, Nigeria. Participants were recruited from three selected ART clinics using complete enumeration. Data were collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and analysed using SPSS version 20. Descriptive statistics and appropriate bivariate tests were used, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.
Participants were mostly male (51.7%) and Yoruba (74.4%). Only 56.1% had good knowledge of oral lesions. Common risk factors included poor oral hygiene (56.1%), alcohol use (31.7%), and ART non-adherence. Healthcare-seeking within two weeks of symptoms was low (26.7%). Religion, education, and occupation were significantly associated with care-seeking. Poor oral hygiene and low CD4 counts were significant predictors of oral lesions.
Knowledge and prompt care-seeking for oral lesions remain inadequate among HIV enrollees. Integrating oral health education, routine screening, and dental care into HIV treatment services is essential to improve outcomes in this population.

PMID:
42477674
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 21 Jul 2026.

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