Utilization of Insecticide Treated Nets among Pregnant Women in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria
Author
Orga Fidel Sewuese, Yusuf Usman Alhaji, & Francis O. Onu
Abstract
Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among pregnant women who are highly vulnerable to infection and adverse outcomes. This study examined the utilization of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) among pregnant women in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. The study assessed the level of ITN utilization, awareness and understanding, and the factors influencing use among pregnant women. The study was anchored on the Health Belief Model and adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 385 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in selected public health facilities. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that while awareness of ITNs was relatively high (39.0% understood their purpose), consistent nightly use was only 36.4%. Many women used nets occasionally or seasonally, while others rarely or never used them. Health education from antenatal clinics (31.2%) and educational level (34.1%) were the most significant factors influencing utilization. Other factors included comfort, net availability, family influence, and cultural beliefs. The study concludes that a gap exists between awareness and consistent ITN utilization among pregnant women in Makurdi. Strengthening antenatal health education, addressing misconceptions, and improving net accessibility are essential for enhancing malaria prevention efforts.
Keywords
Insecticide-treated nets, pregnant women, malaria prevention, and utilization
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References
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