Peer-reviewed article

Knowledge and attitude regarding the risks of teenage pregnancy among adolescent girls at selected secondary schools in Lira city, Uganda: a cross-sectional study.

Winfred A, Nakaziba R · 17 Jul 2026

Abstract

Background, hypothesis and aim Teenage pregnancy remains a major public health challenge in Uganda, with Northern Uganda accounting for approximately 25% of the national burden. Inadequate knowledge on reproductive health among adolescents predisposes them to early childbearing, thereby increasing the risk of adverse outcomes for both the mother and the infant. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding the risks associated with teenage pregnancy among adolescent girls at selected secondary schools in Lira City to determine whether these factors contribute to the persistently high rates of teenage pregnancy in the region. Design A cross-sectional study design was employed using quantitative data collected through structured questionnaires. Data analysis was conducted at both univariate and bivariate levels using SPSS V.26. The χ2 test was applied to assess associations, and p≤0.05 indicated statistical significance. Setting The study was conducted in selected secondary schools located in Lira City, Northern Uganda. Participants The study was conducted among 384 adolescent girls aged 18-19 years, recruited from three secondary schools in Lira City. Primary and secondary outcome measures The primary outcome measures included participants' socio-demographic characteristics as well as their knowledge and attitude towards the risk of teenage pregnancy. Secondary outcomes comprised the levels of knowledge and attitude and the factors associated with these outcomes. Results The majority of participants (67.2%) demonstrated adequate knowledge regarding the risks of teenage pregnancy, whereas 76.3% exhibited negative attitudes towards teenage pregnancy, perceiving it as inappropriate. The participants' class level and family type were significantly associated with both knowledge and attitude (p<0.05). Conclusion Adolescent girls in secondary schools in Lira City demonstrated adequate knowledge of the risks associated with teenage pregnancy and generally held negative attitudes towards it. Families, schools and the general community should actively monitor and mentor adolescents within their care to limit the occurrence of teenage pregnancy. Moreover, further research is warranted to explore the underlying factors contributing to the persistently high rates of teenage pregnancy in the region, despite this level of awareness and the negative attitudes.