Influence of Radio Messages on the Awareness and Adoption of Malaria Preventive Measures among Rural Dwellers in Osun State, Nigeria
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Date
2025
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International Journal of African Renaissance Studies - Multi-, Inter- and Transdisciplinarity. Roultege Taylor &Francis Group
Abstract
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in rural Nigeria, despite efforts
by government and non-government organisations to use radio for sensitisation
on malaria prevention. The persistent prevalence of malaria raises concerns
about the effectiveness of radio in raising awareness and influencing preventive
behaviour. This study investigated the impact of radio messages on the
awareness and adoption of malaria preventive measures among rural dwellers
in Osun State. The study adopted the cultivation theory and health belief model
as a framework, while using a survey method to gather quantitative data from
392 respondents in the Iwo and Ede-South local government areas between
October and December 2023. Findings revealed that radio broadcasts effectively
exposed rural dwellers to malaria prevention information and positively
influenced their adoption of preventive measures. The study concludes that
radio stations should engage rural audiences regularly on health issues to
encourage lasting behaviour change. It recommends that radio stations dedicate
more time to designing health messages that promote positive health
behaviours. These insights provide valuable direction for policymakers and
health organisations seeking to enhance malaria prevention efforts in rural areas.