Perception, practices and health-seeking behaviour of lymphatic filarisis\' patients in some endemic communities in Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Quantitative and qualitative studies to investigate lymphatic-filariasis-related perceptions, practices and health-seeking behaviour of patients was conducted in Benue State, Nigeria. Questionnaires, key informant, interviews and Matrix Ranking Exercises were employed to collect data. A total of 113 questionnaires administered to lymphatic filariasis\' patients comprised 78 (69.0%) male and 35 (31.0%) female were analysed. Gender variations in knowledge, attitudes and perception (KAP) were observed among the patients, these were however not significant (X2 = 5.91, df = 1, p > 0.05). Ranking exercise revealed preference of traditional medicine over modern medicine. Patients\' KAP and choice of health providers were influenced by prevailing traditional superstitious and socio-cultural norms in the community. Our result confirm the need and logic of integrating community heath education with emphasis on participatory learning and action methodologies into the intended mass drug administration (MDA) being considered for lymphatic filariasis elimination in Nigeria.

Keywords: lymphatic filariasis, patients\' perception, health-seeking behaviour, Nigeria.

Nigerian Journal of Parasitology Vol. 29 (2) 2008: pp. 140-146