1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of Study
Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) are among the most common causes of childhood morbidity and mortality globally, with young children being particularly vulnerable to these diseases. In many developing countries, including Nigeria, LRTIs contribute significantly to the disease burden, with pneumonia being a major cause of death in children under five years old (Ogunlesi et al., 2021). In Lagos State, which is Nigeria's most populous state, the impact of LRTIs is exacerbated by a range of socio-economic and environmental factors, including overcrowding, poor sanitation, limited access to healthcare, and environmental pollution (Oladele & Adebayo, 2022).
The awareness of LRTIs in Nigeria, particularly among parents and caregivers, is a crucial determinant of early diagnosis and treatment. Delays in recognizing the symptoms of LRTIs or misdiagnosis can result in severe complications, including respiratory failure, hospitalization, and death (Adebayo et al., 2020). Despite the availability of vaccines, such as the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, and antibiotics, the awareness level about the prevention, recognition, and management of these infections remains inadequate in many parts of the country (Nwokolo et al., 2019).
In Lagos State, while some health campaigns have focused on general public health issues, few have been specifically tailored to raising awareness about LRTIs in children. Public health education about the risks, symptoms, and preventive measures associated with LRTIs can play a vital role in mitigating the impact of these infections (Ademuyiwa et al., 2021). Parents and caregivers who are better informed are more likely to recognize symptoms early, seek timely medical care, and adhere to preventive measures like vaccination and good hygiene practices.
Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) are a significant global health concern, particularly among children, and are one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. LRTIs include conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis, which can be life-threatening, especially in children under five years old (WHO, 2020). In Lagos State, a densely populated region in Nigeria, the burden of LRTIs is particularly high due to factors such as inadequate healthcare access, low levels of health literacy, and the prevalence of environmental risk factors like air pollution and poor sanitation (Oladele & Adebayo, 2022). The awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers is a critical factor in preventing delays in diagnosis and treatment. However, studies suggest that knowledge about LRTIs and their symptoms is often limited in many parts of Nigeria, including Lagos State (Nwokolo et al., 2019).
Therefore, this study seeks to fill this gap by exploring the level of awareness regarding LRTIs among parents and caregivers of children in Lagos State.
1.2 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the awareness of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) among parents and caregivers in Lagos State is inadequate, which contributes to delays in recognizing and treating these life-threatening infections in children. LRTIs, including pneumonia, bronchitis, and bronchiolitis, are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in children under five years old in Nigeria, yet many caregivers are unaware of the early signs and preventive measures (Adebayo et al., 2020). The lack of knowledge about lower respiratory tract infections is particularly problematic in urban areas like Lagos, where overcrowding, poor sanitation, and limited healthcare access heighten the risk of infection (Oladele & Adebayo, 2022).
Although vaccines and antibiotics are available to reduce the severity of LRTIs, misconceptions and misinformation about these infections persist, which affects timely medical intervention (Nwokolo et al., 2019). Health education campaigns on LRTIs have been limited in scope and reach, and there is a need for tailored public awareness programs that address specific challenges faced by residents of Lagos State (Ademuyiwa et al., 2021). Additionally, the role of caregivers in preventing the spread of respiratory infections is crucial, yet many are still unaware of simple measures such as good hygiene practices and proper vaccination schedules. Hence, the undertaking of this research work will fill in the gap by examining the factors influencing awareness and health-seeking behaviors among parents in Lagos State.
1.3 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to assess the level of awareness of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) among parents and caregivers of children in Lagos State. To achieve this aim, the study has the following objectives:
- To evaluate the relationship between the level of awareness of LRTIs and the timely medical intervention among children in Lagos State.
- To explore the factors that influence the awareness and health-seeking behavior of parents and caregivers in relation to LRTIs.
- To examine the knowledge of symptoms, causes, and preventive measures of LRTIs among parents and caregivers.
- To determine the level of awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers of children in Lagos State.
- To identify the sources of information that parents and caregivers rely on for knowledge about LRTIs.
- To assess the role of public health campaigns in increasing awareness of LRTIs in Lagos State.
- To provide recommendations for improving public health education and awareness programs on LRTIs in Lagos State.
1.4 Research Questions
The research questions for this study on the awareness of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) in children in Lagos State, based on the stated objectives, are as follows:
- What is the level of awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers of children in Lagos State?
- What are the primary sources of information that parents and caregivers rely on for knowledge about LRTIs?
- How knowledgeable are parents and caregivers about the symptoms, causes, and preventive measures of LRTIs?
- What factors influence the awareness and health-seeking behavior of parents and caregivers regarding LRTIs in Lagos State?
- How effective have public health campaigns been in increasing awareness of LRTIs among residents of Lagos State?
- Is there a relationship between the level of awareness of LRTIs and the timely medical intervention for children in Lagos State?
- What strategies can be implemented to improve public health education and awareness programs on LRTIs in Lagos State?
1.5 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.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between the level of awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers and their health-seeking behaviors for timely medical intervention in Lagos State.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between the level of awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers and their health-seeking behaviors for timely medical intervention in Lagos State.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Public health campaigns have no effect on increasing awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers in Lagos State.
- H1: Public health campaigns have a positive effect on increasing awareness of LRTIs among parents and caregivers in Lagos State.
1.6 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will inform public health policymakers and healthcare providers, aiding in the development of more targeted and effective health education campaigns to improve awareness about LRTIs and encourage early intervention.
Additionally, the study will serve as a foundation for further research on pediatric respiratory health in Nigeria, offering valuable data that can be used to address the challenges associated with LRTIs in children.
Furthermore, the study will provide recommendations that can reduce the morbidity and mortality rates associated with LRTIs in children in Lagos State.
1.7 Scope of Study
The scope of this study will focus on the awareness of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs) among parents and caregivers of children in Lagos State, Nigeria. It will specifically target urban and semi-urban areas within the state, considering the diverse demographic and socioeconomic factors that may influence the awareness and health-seeking behaviors of caregivers.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
The research study was limited by several factors that may have influenced the results.
- The availability of data, as obtaining accurate and comprehensive responses from parents and caregivers was challenging due to the varying levels of literacy and understanding of LRTIs. In some cases, the caregivers may not have had access to reliable sources of information, leading to incomplete or inaccurate responses.
- The financial constraints faced by the researchers also limited the scope of the study, as it restricted the ability to reach all areas of Lagos State.
- Lastly, delays from respondents in completing the survey were another limitation, as some participants were not prompt in providing the necessary data, potentially affecting the timeliness of the research findings.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (LRTIs):
Lower Respiratory Tract Infections refer to infections that affect the airways and lungs, including pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and bronchitis. These infections can lead to serious health complications, particularly in children, and are often caused by viruses or bacteria. LRTIs are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide (World Health Organization [WHO], 2020).
Awareness:
Awareness in this study refers to the knowledge and understanding that parents and caregivers have regarding the causes, symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in children. It also includes how informed they are about the importance of seeking timely medical attention when their child exhibits signs of LRTIs (Nigerian Centre for Disease Control [NCDC], 2021).
Caregivers:
Caregivers in this context refer to individuals, usually parents, guardians, or relatives, who are responsible for the care and well-being of children. These individuals play a significant role in identifying health concerns and seeking medical help when necessary (Okafor et al., 2019).
Public Health Campaigns:
Public health campaigns refer to organized efforts by government agencies, health organizations, or other stakeholders to inform and educate the public on specific health issues. In this study, the focus is on campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the prevention and treatment of LRTIs in children (Global Health Council, 2021).
Health-seeking Behavior:
Health-seeking behavior is the actions individuals take to improve or maintain their health, including seeking medical attention, using preventive measures, and engaging in health education. In the context of this study, it examines how parents and caregivers respond when their child shows signs of respiratory illness, such as recognizing symptoms and seeking medical care (Rao et al., 2020).
…
