Knowledge, Awareness and Perception on Malaria in Tribal Regions of Vadodara District, Gujarat (India)

Abstract

Malaria affects health and general well-being of many people in the developing world. In India also, malaria is a major public health problem. It continues to be a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in many tropical regions of the world, despite global efforts to eradicate the disease. To achieve the targets of reducing malaria prevalence and preventing malaria epidemic, it is essential to have active community participation. Therefore, clear understanding of the Knowledge, Awareness and Perception (KAPs) of a particular community can help in framing the policy of prevention and promotion of any malaria control measure. In this context, the decision makers in the health sector are recognizing the importance of community’s KAPs on malaria and, thus, is gaining stimulus as one of the methods for malaria control. KAPs, however, play an important role in the improvement of health and health-seeking behaviour of a disease-burdened group. This study, therefore, investigates a local community’s KAPs on malaria in tribal areas of Vadodara District. The KAP investigates the community’s understanding of malaria transmission, their recognition of signs and symptoms, their treatment-seeking behaviours and community preventive measures and practices.