Aim: This study assessed the level of knowledge and preventive practices of child injury and violence among
mothers of children less than 18years residing in an urban community in Edo State, Nigeria.
Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 240 mothers in Okhoro, Egor Local
Government Area in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Multistage sampling method was used. A structured
interviewer administered questionnaire was the tool for data collection.
Results: The ages of the 240 respondents ranged from 15-59 years, with a mean of 31.7±8.6 years. Majority,
204 (85.0%) of the respondents had good knowledge of child injury and violence. Also, 134 (55.8%) of the
respondents reported that their child had suffered injury and violence within the previous year before the
study. The commonest injury the respondents’ children were exposed included falls 58 (43.3%) and cuts 43
(32.1%). Majority, 161 (67.1%) of mothers displayed poor practice of child injury and violence prevention
and control.
Conclusion: Majority of the respondents had good knowledge of child injury and violence prevention which
did not translate to good prevention practices. Caregivers should be encouraged to look after young children
and keep their environment safe. Repeated mass campaigns especially through the media on the importance
of injury and violence prevention would help to reinforce this in caregivers and children.