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Description
Malaria is one of the most devastating diseases in the world, and is the most substantial cause of disability and death among children under age 5 in Africa. This disease is especially devastating in sub-Saharan Africa since political instability is high and resources and solid prevention programs are limited. Insecticide Treated Nets (ITNs) are a common and powerful means of malaria prevention that serve as a main component for many existing programs. Research indicates that while households may be receiving ITNs through purchase or free distributions, utilization remains low. Previous research has shown that barriers such as finances, knowledge, and family structure can hinder ITN use. Heads of households and caregivers are often the ones to make the health-related decisions for a home. The aim of this study was to investigate characteristics of the head of household that influence ITN use. Specifically, this study assessed relationships between ITN use and gender, marital status, and education level of the head of household, individually. This study was conducted in two districts in Ghana, Asikuma Odobeng Brakwah and Gomoa East. The baseline survey data from a larger intervention was used for this study. A total of 1372 women who were pregnant or caring for a child or children age 5 or younger completed the survey, with 50.1% residing in Asikuma Odobeng Brakwah and 49.9% residing in Gomoa East. From this sample, information was gathered for 1144 heads of household. Results revealed that the majority of household heads were male, currently married, and had a low level of formal education. Most respondents reported to own at least one ITN, had never experienced problems in ITN usage, and had slept under an ITN during the previous night. ITN use was reported to be higher among households headed by a male, a currently married person, and a person with a lower level of education. There were significant relationships between gender of the head of household and education level of the female heads of household and ITN use. Significant relationships were not found between current marital status and education level of the male heads of household and ITN use. Gender of the head of household was predictive of ITN use while education level of the female heads of household was not. This study highlights variables that influence ITN use in a home. Tailored malaria prevention programs that focus on the distribution and use of ITNs are necessary in order to decrease incidence and work towards the eventual eradication of the disease.
