| dc.description.abstract | This study investigates factors influencing health-seeking behaviour among the
informal settlers of Kibera, Nairobi. It specifically addresses the following: whether
beliefs on the cause of diseases influence the types of therapy used, whether the
perceptions about the cost of treatment influence choice of sources of therapy and
whether education influence therapy choice.
A total of 140 respondents (35 from each of the four villages: Lindi,
Gwatekera, Laini Saba and Makina) were systematically sampled and interviewed
using a standard questionnaire. In-depth interviews of 20 key informants (five from
each village) were undertaken and two Focus Group Discussions (one comprising of
health service providers and the other women with children under-five years) were
conducted. Two case histories of people who had chronic illnesses were carried out as
well.
The study found that beliefs 'about cause of diseases influence types of therapy
used during the first stages of an illness. However, switching of therapies is common
during follow-up stages and in episodes of chronic illnesses. Secondly, the study
reveals that in the initial stage~ of illness, the respondents utilise health-care sources
they consider affordable such as Government clinics and hospitals or indigenous
healers. However, when an illness persists for a longer period or does not respond to
treatment, the respondents usually change the source of therapy from cheaper to
expensive ones.
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Thirdly, the findings show that there is no association between level of
education and therapy used. Qualitative data reveal that the choice of therapy depends
on affordability, the seriousness of the illness, as well as the prospects of recovering.
It is concluded that health-care outcome is determined by perceptions about disease
causation and the cost of treatment.
It is recommended that improving hygienic levels of Kibera, and creating
awareness through public health education on causes and management of common
ailments, as well as enhancing the residents' incomes through skills training and
involvement in income-generation activities to enable them access health care services
should be emphasized. These measures will enable residents to make informed health
care choices. Recommendations for future research are also identified. | en |
