Health-seeking Behaviour and Self-rated Health of Adult Men in an Urban Local Government Area in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Evidence from the literature suggests that men are less likely to seek health services compared to women. It is important to understand the factors that influence the health-seeking behaviour of men and how it affects their self-rated health.

Objectives: To assess the health-seeking behaviour and self-rated health perception of adult men in an urban community in Lagos state.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted among 300 adult males aged 18 years and above in an urban community in Lagos State, Nigeria. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain relevant data. Associations between categorical variables were subjected to statistical analysis.

Results: The health-seeking behaviour of the men in the study area was influenced by factors such as the severity of illness (66.1%), availability of funds (13.1%) and subscription to health insurance (18.2%). A majority (94.7%) self-rated their health as good, very good or excellent. Provision of expert care (45.6%) was considered the most important characteristic of health-seeking behaviour. Alcohol consumption (38.8%) was significantly associated with the health perception of the respondents. The respondents (50.2%) preferred using hospitals, compared to other sources during their last illness episode.

Conclusion: The respondents exhibited a preference for hospital visit during their last illness, confirming appropriate health-seeking behaviour in the absence of economic hindrances and other factors. Respondents with little or no alcohol intake had better self-rated health.