Knowledge of malaria prevention and control in a sub-urban community in Accra, Ghana

Abstract

Knowledge of community members in malaria is a major factor that can influence malaria prevention and control. The study sought to identify possible relationships between personal characteristics of community members and their knowledge of malaria prevention and control. It was found out that educational level of the people did not relate to their knowledge of malaria prevention (•2 = 2.112, df. 3, p = 0.55). Females had higher knowledge on malaria than males. Both the less educated and highly educated are aware that malaria can be prevented. Formal educational levels might not directly affect ones' knowledge about the causes of malaria. In conclusion, knowledge in malaria prevention and control might not result from formal education only but other sources such as non-formal and informal education. Respondents' knowledge level on matters relating to malaria was high yet their actions towards prevention and control were discouraging. © Medwell Journals, 2011.