Health seeking behaviours of youth in relation to sexually transmitted diseases

Abstract

Health Seeking Behavior refers to those actions’ individuals undertake to find appropriate solutions for health problems. This study examined the rationale behind delay in seeking treatment for STI. Data was collected using structured questionnaires administered to participants. The study indicates education has influence on STI information. School teacher and social media were recorded to be the main source of information on STI across the various educational levels. JHS, SHS and Tertiary recorded 43.8%, 26% and 26.8% for school teacher while social media recorded 9.5%, 37.5%, and 24.4% respectively. Peer group and TV were however indicated by primary school level and no education respectfully as a source of STI information. It was revealed that family members and health workers play lesser role in educating youth on STI. Delay in seeking care for STI - related illness were common among the youth. More than half 54.9% of the respondents indicated first treatment option for STI management as going to a health facility with just a handful self-medicating 19.2%, or seeking help and self- medicating at the same time. The use of both western and traditional medication or either of the two was common on the grounds of medication has worked before. The most preferred health facility was government hospital (42.3%) with a greater perception of treatment being more effective there, 40% of respondents who preferred pharmacy indicated privacy as a reason. The study found more than half of the respondents reporting main barrier to seeking care as acceptability of the service and affordability. To encourage young people to access formal health care, specific health services should be provided for youth where they are assured of confidentiality.