ISSN 2360-7920
Abstract
Accepted 28th June, 2019.
Self-medication is widespread in many parts of the world. Studies show anti-malarial drugs are inappropriately used through self-medication raising the risk for drug resistance. The study was conducted in Langas Estate, Uasin Gishu County, Kenya in May 2011. The purpose of the study was to determine factors that influenced self-medication with anti-malarial drugs. Objectives: 1) To determine the relationship between the practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs and general knowledge on malaria, environmental factors and socio-economic factors 2) To determine the relationship between practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs, age of respondent, monthly income and level of education 3) To compare practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs according the type of employment and gender of the respondent. A descriptive correlation design was used. Stratified and systematic sampling methods were used to select the study area and respondents respectively. The sample consisted 391 respondents. Structured questionnaires were used. The study revealed there was a significant relationship between socio-economic factors and practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs (p- =0.016), general knowledge of malarial symptoms (p- =<0.0015) and monthly income (p =0.001). However there was no relationship between the practice of self-medication and environmental factors (p =0.088). Conclusion: factors which influenced the practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs were socio-economic, general knowledge of malarial symptoms, level of education and the monthly income. It recommended that there was need for the Kenya Ministry of Health to provide comprehensive information on rational drug use to consumers. Furthermore, over the counter sale of anti-malarial drugs should be reviewed.
Keywords: Self- treatment, Home remedies, Attitudes, Practices, Self-mediation, Anti-malarial drugs