THE INFLUENCE OF BROADCAST MEDIA CAMPAIGNS ON CHILD KILLER DISEASES ON THE HEALTH BEHAVIOUR OF RESIDENTS OF ENUGU STATE
ABSTRACT
Child killer diseases have continued to be a major health issue affecting children in Enugu State, Nigeria and the world at large. These diseases are the major cause of morbidity and mortality of children under the age of five. Research findings reveal that there are top 5 diseases which kill children in Sub Saharan Africa and as such, can be easily prevented and treated. Thus, this study examines the influence of broadcast media campaigns on child killer diseases on the health behaviour of residents of Enugu State. The study is based on two theories, Health belief Model and Theory of Reasoned Action. In order to find out the influence of the broadcast media campaigns on the residents, a descriptive survey research method was adopted. The sampling technique employed for the study was multi-stage sampling and two research instruments were used to obtain data. Four hundred and five (405) copies of questionnaire were administered to the residents in the three senatorial zones in Enugu State. The zones were Enugu East, Enugu North and Enugu West. Three hundred and ninety one (391) were filled and returned. Data collected for this study were analyzed with the use of quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. With the aid of Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) version 16.0, simple percentages and mean were used for the study while results were presented in tables and charts as may be suitable. Findings reveal that broadcast media campaigns on child killer diseases influence the residents to a large extent. Thus, broadcast media campaigns on child killer diseases have to a large extent contributed to the awareness level of child health issues in Enugu State. Findings further revealed that educational level, cultural belief, income level and perceived seriousness of the disease were among other factors that influence respondents’ health behaviour. The study therefore recommends that, more health programmes should be originated to empower residents in Enugu State with various ways to combat the child killer diseases and reduce the percentage to a tolerable level.