Perception of Environmental Health Risks of Open Defecation Among Rural Households in Katsina State, North West Nigeria

Open defecation continues to be prevalent in many rural communities in northern Nigeria, contributing to disease transmission, water contamination, and poor sanitation outcomes. This study explored the perception of environmental health risks associated with open defecation among rural households in Daura Local Government Area, Katsina State. A cross-sectional mixed-methods approach was adopted, involving 340 household surveys, twelve focus group discussions disaggregated by gender, and key informant interviews with community and religious leaders. Findings revealed that while eighty-one percent of respondents acknowledged that open defecation could cause illness, only forty-seven percent correctly identified the fecal-oral transmission route as the primary disease pathway. Lack of household latrines was cited by seventy-three percent of participants as the primary reason for open defecation, followed by deeply rooted social norms and preference for outdoor practices among adult males. Community shame around open defecation was significantly lower among male respondents compared to females. Households in which the head had at least primary education demonstrated better risk perception scores. The study identifies a critical gap between awareness and behavior change. It recommends community-led total sanitation approaches, targeted behavior change communication using trusted local leaders and religious institutions, and government investment in affordable latrine construction programs. Keywords: open defecation, sanitation, rural Nigeria, Katsina, perception.