Addressing School Children’s Health Challenges (Communicable Diseases) in Delta State Through Health Education and Promotion
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to investigate the state of health education and promotion programs in schools in Delta State, Nigeria. A structured questionnaire was designed to collect data from a sample of 120 respondents, including school children, and analyzed using SPSS 27. The research hypotheses were tested using a one-sample t-test with an assumed mean of 0, and a critical table value of 2.92 was used for decision-making. The findings revealed that school children in Delta State possess a substantial level of knowledge regarding common hygiene practices, vaccinations, common symptoms and transmission modes of communicable diseases, and the importance of maintaining personal hygiene. They also indicated a positive perception of the effectiveness of health education programs in schools, which significantly contributed to their health awareness and behaviours. The study highlights the potential impact of these programs on enhancing health-related knowledge and practices among school children. In conclusion, the study recommends the continuation and improvement of health education and promotion programs in schools, which have proven to be effective in increasing health awareness among students. The findings support the idea that these programs play a vital role in addressing health challenges faced by school children, particularly in preventing communicable diseases. Future initiatives should focus on maintaining and enhancing the quality of such programs to ensure their continued success. In summary, the study demonstrates the significance of health education and promotion programs in school settings and their positive impact on school children’s health knowledge and behaviours. These findings emphasize the importance of sustaining and improving these programs to foster healthier communities and reduce the burden of communicable diseases among the youth.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
Education is not confined to the mere transfer of knowledge; it encompasses the holistic development of an individual. In the context of school children, this development includes not only intellectual growth but also their physical and mental well-being (McLeroy et al., 2018). The importance of addressing the health challenges faced by school children, particularly communicable diseases, cannot be overstated (Collignon & Carnie, 2022). In Delta State, Nigeria, where the education system plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of its youth, there is a pressing need to focus on the health of school children to ensure that they have a conducive environment for learning and personal growth (Igbokwe et al., 2020).
Communicable diseases are those that can be transmitted from one person to another, posing a significant threat to public health, especially in densely populated areas like schools (McLeroy et al., 2018). These diseases often result in absenteeism and decreased academic performance, and, in some severe cases, can be fatal (Collignon & Carnie, 2022). Addressing these challenges through health education and promotion is essential to not only mitigate the spread of these diseases but also to improve the overall well-being of school children (Igbokwe et al., 2020).
The prevalence of communicable diseases, as highlighted in the reference to Collignon and Carnie (2022), underscores the urgency of addressing this issue in Delta State, Nigeria. In a densely populated environment like a school, where students come into close contact with each other, the risk of disease transmission is considerably high. This can lead to a higher rate of absenteeism among students, impacting their educational progress. Such diseases can also cause a decline in academic performance, affecting the quality of education they receive (McLeroy et al., 2018).
Moreover, the impact of communicable diseases extends beyond educational setbacks. As referenced by Collignon and Carnie (2022), some of these diseases can be fatal, particularly in cases where early intervention is lacking. This not only threatens the lives of school children but also places a significant burden on the healthcare system. The prevention and management of these diseases among school children are crucial not only for their well-being but also for the overall public health of the region.
To address these health challenges in school children, an effective strategy involves incorporating health education and promotion programs (Sørensen et al., 2022). The reference to Sørensen et al. (2022) highlights the importance of health literacy and public health in addressing communicable diseases. These programs can provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and manage diseases, promoting a healthier school environment. Educating students about the transmission of diseases, proper hygiene, and prevention measures is crucial in curbing the spread of communicable diseases.
Schools can play a pivotal role in imparting this knowledge and promoting healthy behaviours. Reference to Ganczak et al. (2021) and Kaewchana et al. (2022) emphasize the impact of peer-based educational interventions and handwashing education on students’ knowledge and attitudes regarding disease prevention. These interventions have the potential to create a significant positive change in the behaviour of students. In particular, intensive handwashing education can lead to better handwashing practices in households, which is essential in reducing disease transmission, as indicated by Kaewchana et al. (2022).
In addition to individual behaviour change, addressing communicable diseases in schools requires a systemic approach. The reference to Zayas et al. (2021) points out the importance of effective cough etiquette manoeuvres in disrupting the chain of transmission of infectious respiratory diseases. This highlights the significance of collective actions and adherence to proper practices in reducing the risk of disease spread within the school community. These practices can be instilled through educational programs and school policies.
Furthermore, educational interventions are not limited to addressing communicable diseases directly. They can also have an impact on related health issues. Reference to Al-Delaimy et al. (2022) underscores the development and evaluation of a health education learning package to control soil-transmitted helminth infections among school children in Malaysia. This example demonstrates the broader scope of health education programs and their ability to address various health challenges faced by students.
The importance of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in schools is well-documented. The references to De Buck et al. (2017), Asaolu and Ofoezie (2019), and Hosain et al. (2019) underline the significance of WASH interventions in preventing diseases and improving the overall health and well-being of students. These interventions not only contribute to reducing the prevalence of communicable diseases but also create a safer and more hygienic environment for learning.
The effectiveness of health education and sanitation in controlling helminth infections, as indicated by Asaolu and Ofoezie (2019), showcases the long-term benefits of such programs. Students who are educated about the importance of sanitation and hygiene are more likely to adopt these practices in their daily lives, ultimately leading to a reduction in the prevalence of related diseases.
Health education is not only effective in preventing diseases but also in promoting healthier behaviours among students. Reference to Bieri et al. (2021) highlight a health education package aimed at preventing worm infections in Chinese schoolchildren. This comprehensive approach to health education can have a positive impact on various aspects of students’ well-being.
In conclusion, education is not confined to the mere transfer of knowledge but encompasses the holistic development of an individual, including their physical and mental well-being. In Delta State, Nigeria, addressing the health challenges faced by school children, particularly communicable diseases, is of paramount importance. These diseases pose a significant threat to public health, leading to absenteeism, decreased academic performance, and, in severe cases, fatalities. By implementing health education and promotion programs, schools can empower students with the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and manage diseases, promoting a healthier and safer learning environment. These programs have the potential to create a positive and lasting impact on the well-being of school children in Delta State and beyond.
Statement of Problem
The statement of the problem in addressing school children’s health challenges, particularly communicable diseases, in Delta State, Nigeria, is a critical concern. As highlighted by McLeroy et al. (2018), education is not solely about imparting knowledge but also encompasses the holistic development of an individual. However, the presence of communicable diseases in schools poses a significant threat to this development.
The problem lies in the prevalence of communicable diseases within the school environment. Collignon and Carnie (2022) emphasize that schools, being densely populated areas, are conducive to disease transmission. The close contact among students makes them vulnerable to infections, leading to high rates of absenteeism and decreased academic performance. As a result, the educational progress and quality of education for these students are compromised.
Furthermore, some communicable diseases, as referenced by Collignon and Carnie (2022), can have severe consequences, including fatalities. The lack of early intervention and prevention measures exacerbates the risk to students’ lives and places a significant burden on the healthcare system. This not only threatens the well-being of school children but also the overall public health of Delta State, as highlighted by Igbokwe et al. (2020).
The lack of effective health education and promotion programs is another dimension of the problem. Sørensen et al. (2022) argue that promoting health literacy and public health is crucial in addressing communicable diseases. However, the absence of these programs in schools leaves students without the necessary knowledge and skills to prevent and manage diseases. The result is a lack of awareness and inadequate preventive measures, further perpetuating the problem.
In summary, the statement of the problem underscores the urgent need to address communicable diseases among school children in Delta State. The prevalence of these diseases, their impact on educational progress, and the potential for severe consequences demand immediate attention. The lack of effective health education and promotion programs exacerbates the situation, hindering students from acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to protect their health. This problem poses a significant threat to the holistic development of school children in Delta State and the overall public health of the region.
Objectives of the Study
The objectives of this study are as follows:
- To assess the current state of health education and promotion programs in schools in Delta State, Nigeria.
- To identify the most prevalent communicable diseases affecting school children in Delta State.
- To propose effective strategies for enhancing health education and promotion programs to address these health challenges.
Research Questions
To guide this study, the following research questions were addressed:
- What is the current state of health education and promotion programs in schools in Delta State?
- What communicable diseases are most prevalent among school children in Delta State?
- What strategies can be employed to enhance health education and promotion programs to address these health challenges?
Research Hypotheses
In line with the research questions, the following hypotheses were tested:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- There is no significant relationship between the quality of health education and promotion programs in schools in Delta State and the health status of school children.
- The prevalence of communicable diseases among school children in Delta State is not influenced by factors such as sanitation, access to healthcare, and socioeconomic conditions.
- Implementing effective health education and promotion strategies in schools in Delta State can not lead to a significant reduction in the prevalence of communicable diseases among school children.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- There is a significant relationship between the quality of health education and promotion programs in schools in Delta State and the health status of school children.
- The prevalence of communicable diseases among school children in Delta State is influenced by factors such as sanitation, access to healthcare, and socioeconomic conditions.
- Implementing effective health education and promotion strategies in schools in Delta State can lead to a significant reduction in the prevalence of communicable diseases among school children.
Significance of the Study
This research is of paramount significance for various stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, health professionals, parents, and the students themselves. It will contribute to the body of knowledge in public health, education, and child development. The findings of this study will help in formulating policies that address communicable diseases in schools and promote the health of school children in Delta State.
The significance of the study also extends to educators and school administrators, who can use the results to improve their health education and promotion programs. This will lead to a healthier and more conducive learning environment for the students, potentially improving their academic performance.
Furthermore, parents and guardians will benefit from the study as it will provide them with insights into the health challenges their children face in schools and ways to mitigate those challenges. It empowers them to take a more active role in their child’s health and well-being.
Lastly, the study will be of great value to the students themselves as it will create awareness about the importance of health and hygiene. It will equip them with knowledge and skills to protect themselves from communicable diseases, enabling them to lead healthier lives.
Scope of the Study
This study focuses on the state of health education and promotion programs in primary and secondary schools in Delta State, Nigeria. It will also consider the most prevalent communicable diseases among schoolchildren in the region. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current state of health education in schools and propose strategies for improvement. It does not extend to tertiary institutions or other regions outside of Delta State.
Operational Definition of Terms
Health Education and Promotion Programs: These refer to the initiatives, policies, and practices implemented in schools to enhance the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours of students related to health and hygiene.
Communicable Diseases: These are illnesses that can be spread from one person to another, often through direct or indirect contact, and include diseases like malaria, cholera, tuberculosis, and respiratory infections.
School Children: Refers to students enrolled in primary and secondary schools within the specified study area.
Prevalence: The extent to which a particular condition or disease is present within a given population.
Sanitation: The practice of maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the school environment, including waste disposal and personal hygiene.
Access to Healthcare: The ease with which students can receive medical attention and treatment when needed.
Socioeconomic Conditions: The economic and social factors that influence the health and well-being of school children, including income, living conditions, and access to resources.
Conducive Learning Environment: A setting that supports effective teaching and learning, free from health hazards and distractions.
References
- Fauci, A. S., Touchette, N. A., & Folkers, G. K. (2021). Emerging infectious diseases: a 10-year perspective from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. Emerging Infectious Diseases, 11(4), 519–525.
- Ganczak, M., Pasek, O., Duda-Duma, Ł., Komorzycka, J., Nowak, K., & Korzeń, M. (2021). A peer-based educational intervention effects on SARS-CoV-2 knowledge and attitudes among Polish high-school students. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(22).
- Garn, J. V., Trinies, V., Toubkiss, J., & Freeman, M. C. (2017). The role of adherence on the impact of a school-based water, sanitation, and hygiene intervention in Mali. The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 96(4), 984–993.
- Goddard, W., & Melville, S. (2020). Research Methodology: An Introduction (2nd ed.). Blackwell Publishing.
- Golden, S. D., & Earp, J. A. (2022). Social ecological approaches to individuals and their contexts: twenty years of health education & behaviours health promotion interventions. Health Education & Behaviours: The Official Publication of the Society for Public Health Education, 39(3), 364–372.
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