DETERMINANTS OF THE UTILIZATION OF LONG-LASTING INSECTICIDAL NETS IN JIGAWA STATE
Rufa’i et al., J Biomed & App Sci FUD (2023) 2:2
Keywords: Chamo, Long-lasting insecticidal nets, Malaria, Purchase, Utilization
2024-06-28 DOI: JOBASFUD_2023_1_1_001
Abstract
Background: The most extensively used vector control strategies for reducing the risk of malaria transmission are long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs). The aim of this study is to determine the socio-cultural and economic factors associated with regular purchase of LLINs. Methods: A total of 471 respondents were selected, with 187 (39.7%) and 284 (60.3%) being males and females. This was a cross-sectional study conducted using a semi-structured interview questionnaire to assess the study variables, including socio-demographic variables, socio-cultural factors, and economic factors influencing the use of LLINs. A Chi-square (χ2) test was used to determine the associations between the socio-demographic variables of the respondents and their response to whether they have ever purchased LLINs. Results: More than half (58.2%) of the respondents were between 21 and 40 years old. The majority of the respondents (45.6%) have a primary level of education. LLIN purchase was associated with gender (P = 0.001), education level (P < 0.001), marital status (P = 0.040), and monthly income (P < 0.001), with females, those who were married, those with tertiary education, and those with higher monthly income more likely to purchase LLINs. Conclusion: There was a general awareness regarding the use of LLINs, as majority of the respondents have no superstitions about using them. However, socio-cultural and economic factors play a role in the use of LLINs. To promote community acceptance and proper use of LLINs, mass distribution should consider socio-cultural and economic factors.