Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Parents Regarding Malaria Chemoprevention for Children in ILORIN, KWARA State.

Vollständiger Abstract

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Introduction: Malaria chemoprevention has been adopted in Nigeria as one of the preventive strategies aimed at reducing the burden of malaria, but the effectiveness of these interventions is intrinsically linked to the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents and caregivers regarding this malaria prevention strategy. This study aims to comprehensively assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parents concerning this preventive method, thereby informing targeted interventions to improve uptake and adherence to malaria prevention strategies. Methods: A hospital-based, descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed using a convenient sampling technique to administer a pretested, semi-structured questionnaire to the sample population of caregivers of under 5 children at the outpatient department of the selected hospital. Results: The results indicate that although 57.2% of caregivers had heard of SMC, only 28.4% reported their child had taken it, revealing a disparity between awareness and actual uptake. Key barriers to SMC adoption included poverty, difficult access to healthcare services, and concerns over drug side effects. The study also revealed a significant relationship between caregivers’ knowledge of SMC and its uptake (p = 0.005). In addition, factors influencing caregivers’ decision to allow SMC treatment included perceived effectiveness, trust in healthcare providers, and accessibility of healthcare. Despite a generally positive attitude toward malaria prevention, existing knowledge gaps continue to hinder the effective implementation of preventive measures. Conclusion: The study concluded that enhancing health education and awareness, improving healthcare service accessibility, and addressing socioeconomic challenges are vital 1. Ajayi, M.Y., Emeto, D.C. 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