1.1 Introduction
Malaria is a life-threatening parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium species and transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It remains one of the most prevalent public health problems in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where transmission is intense and persistent (World Health Organization [WHO], 2023). Pregnancy increases susceptibility to malaria infection due to changes in immunity, and this condition poses serious risks such as maternal anemia, low birth weight, preterm delivery, and increased infant mortality. As a result, malaria in pregnancy continues to be a major concern for maternal and child health, especially in low- and middle-income countries.
Socio-economic status refers to the social and economic position of individuals or households and is commonly measured using indicators such as income, level of education, occupation, and access to essential resources, including healthcare services. Socio-economic status is a key determinant of health behavior and health outcomes, as it influences knowledge, attitudes, and choices related to disease prevention and treatment (Agyepong & Adjei, 2008).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the aim and objectives of the study. Others are significance of the study, scope of work, research hypothesis and questions, limitation of the study and definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Malaria remains a major public health concern in many parts of the world, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa where the disease is endemic and transmission is continuous. According to the World Health Organization, malaria is a parasitic disease transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes and it poses serious health risks to vulnerable populations, especially pregnant women and young children (WHO, 2023). Pregnancy reduces immunity to malaria, thereby increasing susceptibility to infection and the likelihood of complications such as maternal anemia, miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, and neonatal mortality.
Several scholars have reported that socio-economic status significantly influences health-seeking behavior and treatment choices among individuals and households. Agyepong and Adjei reported that income level, educational attainment, and occupation largely determine access to healthcare services and the type of treatment individuals adopt when faced with illness. In malaria-endemic regions, these socio-economic factors often shape whether pregnant women seek orthodox medical care or rely on alternative treatment options, including traditional herbal remedies.
Traditional herbal medicine has long been an integral part of healthcare delivery in many African societies. According to the World Health Organization, traditional medicine refers to knowledge, skills, and practices based on indigenous beliefs and experiences used in the maintenance of health and the treatment of diseases (WHO, 2019). Okeke, Uzochukwu, and Okafor asserted that in Nigeria, traditional herbs are widely used for malaria treatment due to cultural acceptance, affordability, and easy accessibility, particularly in rural communities where modern health facilities are inadequate or distant. Studies have stated that the utilization of traditional herbs among pregnant women is often driven by poverty, lack of formal education, and limited awareness of the potential risks associated with unregulated herbal use during pregnancy. Nyamongo stated that many pregnant women perceive herbal remedies as natural and safer alternatives to orthodox drugs, despite the absence of standardized dosages and scientific validation.
On the other hand, women with higher socio-economic status tend to have better access to antenatal care services and are more likely to use recommended antimalarial drugs during pregnancy. Dike contended that education and financial stability empower women to make informed health decisions, including adherence to medically approved malaria treatment and prevention strategies. This disparity in treatment choices reflects broader inequalities in maternal healthcare access and utilization.
Furthermore, some researchers have affirmed that the continued reliance on traditional herbs during pregnancy poses potential health risks due to possible drug toxicity, harmful interactions, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite these concerns, traditional herbal medicine remains prevalent, particularly among socio-economically disadvantaged pregnant women. However, there is limited empirical evidence that clearly explains the relationship between socio-economic status and the utilization of traditional herbs for malaria treatment among pregnant women within specific local settings. This study is set against the backdrop of persistent malaria prevalence, widespread use of traditional herbal medicine, and existing socio-economic inequalities that shape maternal health practices.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that malaria remains a major public health challenge in many developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where pregnant women are among the most vulnerable groups due to lowered immunity and increased risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. In Nigeria, malaria continues to contribute significantly to maternal morbidity and mortality, with its impact being more severe among women living in low socio-economic conditions.
In many rural and semi-urban communities, the utilization of traditional herbs for the treatment of malaria among pregnant women is a common practice. Low socio-economic status is closely associated with dependence on locally available herbal remedies, which are perceived as affordable, culturally acceptable, and easily accessible. However, the safety, dosage, and efficacy of many of these traditional herbs during pregnancy remain uncertain, raising concerns about potential health risks to both the mother and the unborn child.
Furthermore, low levels of education among some pregnant women contribute to limited awareness of the dangers associated with inappropriate malaria treatment during pregnancy. As a result, pregnant women may rely on advice from family members, traditional healers, or community elders rather than trained medical professionals, which is strongly shaped by their socio-economic background. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to assess the socio-economic status and the utilization of traditional herbs in the treatment of malaria among pregnant women.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to assess the socio-economic status and the utilization of traditional herbs in the treatment of malaria among pregnant women in Nigeria. The specific objectives of this study are:
- To examine the socio-economic characteristics of pregnant women who use traditional herbs for malaria treatment.
- To identify the types of traditional herbs commonly used by pregnant women in malaria management.
- To determine the factors influencing pregnant women's choice of traditional herbs over modern antimalarial drugs.
- To assess the perceived efficacy and safety of traditional herbs among pregnant women.
- To provide recommendations for integrating safe traditional herbal practices into maternal healthcare policies.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the socio-economic characteristics of pregnant women who use traditional herbs for malaria treatment?
- What types of traditional herbs are commonly used by pregnant women for malaria management?
- What factors influence pregnant women's choice of traditional herbs over modern antimalarial drugs?
- How do pregnant women perceive the efficacy and safety of traditional herbs in treating malaria?
- How can safe traditional herbal practices be integrated into maternal healthcare policies?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the socio-economic status of pregnant women and the utilization of traditional herbs in the treatment of malaria.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the socio-economic status of pregnant women and the utilization of traditional herbs in the treatment of malaria.
1.7 Significance of Study
It is believed that at the completion of the study, the findings will inform strategies to improve maternal health education, enhance awareness about safe malaria treatment options, and support the development of culturally appropriate interventions. The study will also contribute to bridging the gap between traditional herbal medicine and modern healthcare practices, ensuring safer maternal health outcomes.
Furthermore, the study will increase awareness about safe malaria treatment practices and the risks associated with inappropriate herbal use. In addition, findings will guide healthcare professionals in counseling pregnant women and incorporating socio-cultural considerations into treatment plans.
Lastly, the study will serve as a reference for future research on maternal health, socio-economic determinants, and traditional medicine.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of this research is focused on pregnant women residing in Enugu State, Nigeria, examining their socio-economic characteristics and the utilization of traditional herbs for malaria treatment.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
1.10 Definition of Terms
Malaria:
Malaria is a parasitic disease caused by Plasmodium species and transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, characterized by fever, chills, and anemia (WHO, 2023).
Socio-Economic Status (SES):
Socio-economic status refers to an individual's or household's social and economic position, often measured by income, education, occupation, and access to resources (Agyepong & Adjei, 2008).
Traditional Herbs:
Traditional herbs are plant-based medicinal preparations used for therapeutic purposes, based on indigenous knowledge and cultural practices (Sofowora, 1993).
Pregnant Women:
Pregnant women refer to females in any stage of gestation who are susceptible to malaria and its associated health risks.
Health-Seeking Behavior:
Health-seeking behavior is the process by which individuals seek and utilize healthcare services when ill or at risk of disease (Nyamongo, 2002).
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