Self-reported use of anti-malarial drugs and health facility management of malaria in Ghana

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dc.contributor.authorBuabeng, Kwame O
dc.contributor.authorDuwiejua, Mahama
dc.contributor.authorDodoo, Alex NO
dc.contributor.authorMatowe, Lloyd K
dc.contributor.authorEnlund, Hannes
dc.date.accessioned2014-08-14T13:47:06Z
dc.date.available2014-08-14T13:47:06Z
dc.date.issued2007-07-02
dc.date.updated2014-08-14T13:47:17Z
dc.description.abstractAbstract Objective To assess the appropriateness of self-reported use of anti-malarial drugs prior to health facility attendance, and the management of malaria in two health facilities in Ghana. Method A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 500 respondents who were diagnosed clinically and/or parasitologically for malaria at Agogo Presbyterian Hospital and Suntreso Polyclinic, both in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. Collected information included previous use of anti-malarial drugs prior to attending the health facilities, types of drugs used, how the drugs were used, and the sources of the drugs. In addition, the anti-malarial therapy given and outcomes at the two health facilities were assessed. Results Of the 500 patients interviewed, 17% had severe malaria, 8% had moderate to severe malaria and 75% had uncomplicated malaria. Forty three percent of the respondents had taken anti-malarial drugs within two weeks prior to hospital attendance. The most commonly used anti-malarials were chloroquine (76%), sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (9%), herbal preparations (9%) and amodiaquine (6%). The sources of these medicines were licensed chemical sellers (50%), pharmacies (21%), neighbouring clinics (9%) or "other" sources (20%) including left-over medicines at home. One hundred and sixty three (77%) of the 213 patients who had used anti-malarial drugs prior to attending the health facilities, used the drugs inappropriately. At the health facilities, the anti-malarials were prescribed and used according to the national standard treatment guidelines with good outcomes. Conclusion Prevalence of inappropriate use of anti-malarials in the community in Ghana is high. There is need for enhanced public health education on home-based management of malaria and training for workers in medicine supply outlets to ensure effective use of anti-malaria drugs in the country.
dc.description.versionPeer Reviewed
dc.identifier.urihttp://197.255.68.203/handle/123456789/5645
dc.language.rfc3066en
dc.rights.holderKwame O Buabeng et al.; licensee BioMed Central Ltd.
dc.titleSelf-reported use of anti-malarial drugs and health facility management of malaria in Ghana
dc.typeJournal Article

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