Utilization of Insecticide Treated Nets amongst Pregnant Women in Thika District

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess factors influencing ITN utilization amongst pregnant women in Thika district. Malaria in pregnancy is linked to adverse consequences for the mother and foetus. Prevention of malaria using insecticide-treated nets during pregnancy is extensively advocated. Evidence of the benefits of ITN use is however not consistent from one area to another. The Government of Kenya has distributed 1,000 ITN s to pregnant mothers, under 5 years children and ewe. The district was chosen purposively since malaria is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Further, no study has been carried out to establish factors influencing ITN utilization among pregnant women. The broad objective of the study therefore was to assess factors that affect ITN utilization among pregnant women in the study area. Researchers accessed available secondary data and information at the global, regional and country levels, respectively through the internet, AMREF library and from Thika District Hospital. A systematic sampling procedure was used to select the sample size. Sources of primary data were derived from a semi-structured questionnaire which researchers administered on respondents, focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with key informants. Researchers analyzed data using SPSS. Findings from the study show that level of income, marital status, occupation did not affect the utilization of ITNs. However, accessibility of mosquito nets was found to be significant y affected by the distance to health facility and level of income. Based on the findings, it was recommended that appropriate mechanisms be put in place to improve distribution and ensure accessibility and availability of ITNs to pregnant women.