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Cervical cancer is an important but preventable public health problem among women worldwide. Studies have shown low awareness about cervical cancer and its screening test. The aim of this research was to determine the effectiveness of an educational intervention programme on awareness of cervical cancer and uptake of Pap smear by women in selected markets in Niger State, Nigeria. This was a quasi-experimental study conducted in 2014. Sample size was determined based on a previous study on Pap smear test in Nigeria. Multi stage sampling technique was used for recruiting the study participants. SPSS statistical software was used for data entry, editing and analysis. The sociodemographic profile of the respondents was comparable between both groups. Respondents' awareness about cervical cancer and uptake of Pap smear were comparable between both groups at pre-intervention. Post-intervention, there was a statistically significant difference in awareness about cervical cancer (χ 2 = 59.127, p<0.001) with a marginal increase in uptake of Pap smear test (Fisher's exact, p=0.621) in the intervention group as compared to the control group. This finding underscores the need for awareness creation strategies and the need for more interventional programs.

Introduction: Although, maternal health care services have been found to improve the survival and quality of life for mothers and children, they are often underutilized by the mothers and children who are in greatest need. This study aimed to assess the effect of health education intervention on knowledge and utilization of health facility delivery services by pregnant women in Sokoto State, Nigeria.

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Proper waste disposal is a key to protecting public health. Thus poorly managed and disposed waste encourages breeding of insect vectors and exposed public to increase risk of infection. This study aimed at determining the residents' perception about waste disposal in Sokoto metropolis. This was a descriptive cross-sectional survey conducted in Sokoto metropolis. A two stage sampling technique was used to select the survey participants. A set of interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to collect field data. Ethical clearance was obtained from state research ethics committee and in addition, individual informed consent was obtained before questionnaires were administered. Average age of the respondents was 30 years with 50% aged between 25 and 44 years. Large proportion (47.4%) of the respondents had only Quranic education. Majority (94.1%) of the respondents expressed worries about the indiscriminate littering of the metropolis with waste and more than half (55%) reported that residents were responsible for the state of poor sanitation while 38% felt it was fault of government. Although, 91% of respondents said it is appropriate for residents to clean own surroundings, 41% felt residents alone should take sole responsibility for the cleaning; while 40% felt government and residents should take joint responsibility. Less than half (46%) of respondents reported that improper waste disposal have health related problems. Although, majority respondents were disturbed with the way refuse litters the state metropolis, many are unaware of its health related problems. There is need to create awareness among general public of consequences of poor refuse disposal.