EVALUATING THE USE OF HEALTH COMMUNICATION IN IMPROVING THE KNOWLEDGE OF FOOD REMEDIES FOR SELECTED ILLNESS IN RURAL COMMUNITIES IN IMO STATE

Abstract

This study examined the use of health communication in improving the knowledge of food remedies for selected illnesses in rural communities in Imo State. The study was anchored on Education and Literacy Theory. The study employed focus group discussions (N = 108) across 3 communities in Orlu LGA, using a structured guide to collect qualitative data. The major findings from the study revealed that: (a) the rural dwellers are exposed to health communication and food remedies through discussions with friends and peer influence. (b) majority of the rural dwellers are aware that high blood pressure, diabetes and ulcer are predominantly exposed issues through health communication (c) the primary source of information on food remedies is the health center (d) unripe plantains, fresh vegetables, and garlic are understood as food remedies for illness (e) the rural dwellers understand the limitation of carbohydrates, avoiding fast food and sugary substances as a health dietary practices. Based on these findings, it was recommended that public health authorities should collaborate with community leaders and organisations to develop and implement peer education programs; healthcare practitioners, in partnership with public health authorities and community leaders, should develop targeted health communication strategies addressing high blood pressure, diabetes, and ulcers; public health authorities and policymakers should prioritise strengthening formal healthcare services, particularly health centers, by ensuring access to comprehensive information on food remedies; healthcare practitioners, in collaboration with community leaders and organisations, should develop educational initiatives focusing on promoting balanced dietary habits; Public health authorities and healthcare practitioners should collaborate to address knowledge gaps regarding dietary recommendations.