AN EXAMINATION OF SOCIO -ECONOMIC AND DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS THAT DETERMINE HEALTH CARE SEEKING BEHAVIOUR AMONG DIABETIC PERSONS ATTENDING BARAU DIKKO TEACHING HOSPITAL
Kamarudeen Shehu, Maryam Umar Mohammed and Ja’afar Abdulkadir
Volume 10 Issue 1
Abstract
Background: Diabetes is a major public health challenge, and understanding factors influencing health-seeking behavior is crucial for improving care. This study examined the socio-economic and demographic determinants of health-seeking behavior among diabetic patients attending Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital in Kaduna, Nigeria. Methods: A mixed-methods approach was employed, involving a cross-sectional survey of 305 diabetic patients using a structured questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with healthcare workers. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests. Qualitative data from interviews provided additional context. Results: The results showed that a majority of respondents strongly agreed that affordability of treatment (62.3%), accessibility of health services (69.9%), access to health information (70.2%), effectiveness of health services (75.4%), level of educational attainment (49.5%), and income status (82.3%) determined their health-seeking behavior. Age (72.2%) and place of residence (62.3%) were identified as the top demographic factors influencing health-seeking. Cultural preferences and gender were not major determinants. Qualitative data highlighted barriers like financial constraints, distance to facilities, and lack of awareness. Conclusion: Socio-economic factors, particularly income, affordability, and access to services and information, as well as demographic factors like age and place of residence, significantly shape health-seeking decisions among diabetic patients. Recommendations: The findings can inform the development of comprehensive strategies and policies aimed at improving access to healthcare services, enhancing health literacy, and promoting positive health-seeking behaviors, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for individuals living with diabetes Keywords: Diabetes, Health-Seeking Behavior, Socio-Economic Determinants, Demographic Factors
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