Behavioral Factors Influencing Treated Mosquito Nets Use in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Analysis
| dc.contributor.author | Saka Bolakale Sulayman1 and Olaolu Oyinlola Bilewu2 | |
| dc.date.accessioned | 2026-03-11T16:05:13Z | |
| dc.date.available | 2026-03-11T16:05:13Z | |
| dc.date.issued | 2025-12-01 | |
| dc.description | concern, basically in sub-Saharan Africa where environmental conditions support its year-round transmission. The WHO African Region accounted for 94% of all malaria cases and 95% of all malaria deaths, with children under five and pregnant women most affected (WHO, 2023). Nigeria remains one of the most heavily affected countries, contributing to about 27% of the global malaria burden and 32% of global malaria deaths, according to the World Malaria Report (WHO, 2023). This disease disproportionately affects pregnant women and children under five, exacerbating mortality and morbidity in rural communities (UNICEF, 2021). One of the most effective and promoted malaria prevention strategies is the use of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), commonly known as treated mosquito nets, as these nets serve as both physical and chemical barrier against mosquitoes, thereby reducing malaria incidence when used consistently and correctly (WHO, 2022). However, despite massive investments in LLIN distribution through both government-led and donor-funded programs, the actual usage rate of these nets remains low, below expectations in many regions, including parts of Nigeria (Okeke & Dike, 2020). Several behavioural and socio-cultural factors have been identified as major obstacles to consistent usage, which involve traditional beliefs about disease causation, perceptions of low mosquito density, hot weather, discomfort, fear of its chemical toxicity, and alternative uses of the nets, for fishing or gardening’s sake (Obasohan et al., 2022). In rural communities such as those in Moro Local Government Area of Kwara State, where malaria is endemic, local surveys suggest that while net ownership is relatively high due to free distribution programs, its actual utilization remains inconsistent. That is some residents prefer sleeping outdoors during hot seasons, while others believe that malaria is caused by spiritual forces, reducing their reliance on preventive measures like mosquito nets (Akinyemi et al., 2017). | |
| dc.description.abstract | Introduction: Malaria continues to be a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in rural settings like Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State. Despite widespread distribution campaigns, the consistent and correct use of treated mosquito nets remains suboptimal. This study examined the behavioural factors influencing the use of treated mosquito nets in Moro LGA, with a focus on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) among residents. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 380 respondents selected using a multistage sampling technique. Interviewer administered questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of malaria prevention, attitude towards treated nets, and actual usage practices. Descriptive analysis was done using tables of frequencies, while inferential analysis was done using chi-square. Keywords Behavioral factors Treated Mosquito Nets Moro Knowledge Attitude Practice analysis Results: Findings revealed a high level of awareness, with 92.2% of respondents having heard of treated mosquito nets, yet only 78.1% reported consistent use. While 78.4% demonstrate good knowledge about the preventive role of mosquito nets, several behavioural and attitudinal barriers—including discomfort, heat, and misconceptions—were found to limit usage. Statistical analysis indicates significant associations between educational status, income level, marital status, and both knowledge and net usage (p < 0.05). The study concludes that behavioural factors— especially attitudes and perceived inconvenience—play a crucial role in net usage. Public health interventions should therefore go beyond distribution to include behavioural change communication and targeted sensitization campaigns. Corresponding Author Conclusion: The study found that although many respondents had fair knowledge of Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs) and their role in malaria prevention, but this knowledge did not consistently lead to positive attitudes or regular use. While most understood that LLINs protect against malaria, especially for children and pregnant women, behavioural, environmental, and cultural factors limited consistent usage. Common barriers include misconceptions about malaria, doubts about net effectiveness, and discomfort caused by heat. | |
| dc.description.sponsorship | Saka Bolakale Sulayman1 and Olaolu Oyinlola Bilewu2 | |
| dc.identifier.citation | Saka Bolakale Sulayman1 and Olaolu Oyinlola Bilewu2 | |
| dc.identifier.issn | P-2811-1516 ,E-2811-1524 | |
| dc.identifier.uri | https://kwasuspace.kwasu.edu.ng/handle/123456789/6541 | |
| dc.language.iso | en | |
| dc.publisher | Al-Hikmah Journal of Health Sciences (AJOHS) | |
| dc.relation.ispartofseries | 4; 1 | |
| dc.title | Behavioral Factors Influencing Treated Mosquito Nets Use in Moro Local Government Area, Kwara State: Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Analysis | |
| dc.type | Article |