RURAL-URBAN COMPARISON OF MOTHERS’ MEDIA ACCESS AND INFORMATION NEEDS ON DENGUE PREVENTION AND CONTROL1/

BUEN JOSEF CAINILA ANDRADE

1/A thesis manuscript presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for graduation with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Development Communication, major in Development Journalism from the Visayas State University, Visca Baybay, Leyte. Prepared in the Department of Development Communication under the supervision and guidance of Dr. Monina M. Escalada.

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Nature and Importance of the Study

In an ever changing and challenging world, communication plays a significant,

central role in human activity (Hukill, 1994). On the context of health and wellness,

communication has been an essential factor in increasing and reinforcing knowledge,

influencing perceptions, beliefs and attitudes, as well as in advocating a position on a

health issue or policy (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2002).

Field experiences attest to the significant contributions of communication in

addressing health problems. For example, the success in Vietnam and Peru in treating and

detecting tuberculosis cases was the result of the development and use of effective

communication strategies. Accordingly, the use of communication helped the two

countries in detecting at least 70 percent of pulmonary cases and successfully treated 85

percent of these cases (Health Communication Insights, 2004).

1

Health communication can also be used in addressing air-borne diseases. Among

these diseases is dengue. Transmitted through mosquito bite, dengue is a viral disease of

humans. In recent years, this disease has become a major international public health

concern following malaria. It is found in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the

world, predominantly in urban and semi-urban areas (WHO, 2008).

According to Price (2008), about 100 million cases of acute febrile disease

annually are caused by dengue, including more than 500,000 reported cases of dengue

hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome. Currently, dengue is endemic in 112

countries. Globally, about 2.5 billion people live in areas where dengue viruses can be

transmitted (WHO, 2008).

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), a potentially lethal complication, was first

recognized in the 1950s during dengue epidemics in the Philippines and Thailand. Today

DHF affects most Asian countries and has become a leading cause of hospitalization and

death among children in the region (WHO, 2008). In 2007, a total of 45, 350 cases of

dengue have been reported which also accounted to 416 fatalities in the Philippines

(Parallel Universes, 2008).

Correct health practices and knowledge of preventive as well as curative methods,

contribute to a sense of security within the family and the community (Health and Family

Guide, 1986). Because dengue cases occur mostly among children, the woman of the

household appears to be the most critical audience for communication activities against

dengue. This role of women has been observed in India’s strategic communication for

total sanitation campaign where mothers played a “caretaker’s role” in a household and

spent majority of their time in tracking and meeting the requirement of each member in

2

the family. Based on reports, the mother looked after the children and exercised more

control on children, especially in their early days of learning and which is also important

from the point of view of inculcating right practices/habits in them.

Dengue prevention and control have been given due attention by health

authorities. Thus, efforts have been exerted and resources provided to prevent and control

the illness. The generation of adequate knowledge on the nature and contributory factors

of the disease, its preventive measures, and treatment that could reduce the adverse effect

on peoples’ health is considered as a helpful tool in this endeavor (Eurosurveillance,

2007).

Mass media campaigns are a tried-and-true communication approach. They have

been conducted from topics ranging from general health to specific diseases, from

prevention to treatment. Moreover, research has generally demonstrated the effectiveness

of mass media approaches by raising awareness, stimulating the intended audiences to

seek information and services, increasing knowledge, and even changing attitudes (U.S.

Department of Health and Human Services, 2002).

However, according to the APHA Media Advocacy Manual (2000), the goal of a

communication campaign should not only be to teach or influence behavior among the

people but also to begin a process of changing a policy to increase health and wellness.

This means that change may not only come from the people but to the policy makers and

community leaders as well.

Stiller (1996) stressed that success in health education can be attained if

communication plans and strategies are based on comprehensive situation analysis, which

include information on the needs, communication patterns, knowledge, behavior, beliefs

3

and media usage patterns on the target audience. Likewise, Adhikarya and Posamentier

(1987) emphasized that campaign strategies should be planned and developed based on

relevant baseline data on the target audience’s knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP)

regarding the suggested campaign idea. Information provided by KAP surveys is very

useful for communication planning strategy development in overall campaign. In an

effort to contribute data for the design of campaigns against dengue, this study is being

proposed.

Data on information needs of rural and urban mothers’ media access and

knowledge, attitude and practices on dengue prevention and control could be very useful

in the development of a communication campaign strategy on this subject. Also, the

results will serve as an input for the Department of Health and communication specialists

in identifying an appropriate media or extension approach to use in disseminating

information on dengue prevention and control. In addition, such results could be

considered as a benchmark and could therefore be used as basis for a subsequent

summative evaluation.

Objectives of the Study

Generally, this study aimed to compare the rural and urban mothers’ media and

access and information needs on dengue prevention and control. Specifically, it aimed to:

1. Determine respondents socio-demographic characteristics;

2. Find out respondents’ media access and their exposure to information on dengue;

3. Determine their knowledge, attitude, and practice of dengue prevention and

control measures;

4

4. Find out the relationship between respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics

and their knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue prevention and control;

5. Find out the relationship between respondents’ media access and information

exposure and their knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and

control, and;

6. Compare respondents’ media access, exposure to information, and their

knowledge, attitude and practice of their dengue prevention and control measures.

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study focused on the media access, information needs and KAP on dengue

prevention and control among rural and urban mothers.

Results of this study would only be applicable to the rural residents of Albuera,

Leyte and the urban residents of Ormoc City. The interview was limited to 100

respondents only.

Time and Place of the Study

This study was conducted in Barangay Linao, Ormoc City and Barangay

Seguinon, Albuera, Leyte. These study sites were chosen because of the prevalence of

dengue in both locations and their accessibility. Ormoc City is an urban area while

Albuera, Leyte is rural. This study was conducted on February 6 to 18, 2009.

5

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The Dengue Disease

Dengue is the most common mosquito-borne viral disease of humans that in

recent years has become a major international public health concern. Dengue is found in

tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world, predominantly in urban and semi-

urban areas (WHO, 2008). Considering this, dengue prevention and control have been

given due attention by authorities. In the Philippines, for instance, the Department of

Health has established a Dengue Control Program. This is in response to the record high

of 35,000 dengue cases in 2006. Crucial to this is the ‘Four O’Clock Habit’, a continuous

and concerted effort to eliminate the breeding places of Aedes aegypti: people across the

country are encouraged to clean their surroundings and drain water at 4 pm every day

(Eurosurveillance, 2007).

The priorities of public health planners are often at variance with the community's

own environmental sanitation priorities and perspectives. Public opinion about individual,

collective, and governmental responsibilities in addressing these issues and priorities is of

particular importance when designing community-based programs (Rosenbaum, et. al,

1995). According to Robertson (1971), for attitudinal change to occur, it is necessary to

know what type of attitude the individual holds first. This implies, according to him,

gaining some insights into the needs or functions that attitudes serve.

In a study conducted in Trinidad and Tobago on the knowledge, attitudes, and

practice regarding dengue and its prevention and control among the residents, a high level

of awareness about dengue and its etiology was evident. But there was a poor

6

understanding of the symptoms. Hence, there was generally little concern about the health

risks associated with it. The study gave a clear indication of the need for broad-based

environmental sanitation strategies when planning community-based vector control

initiatives for the prevention and control of dengue in Trinidad and Tobago (Rosenbaum,

et. al, 1995).

Information Needs Assessment

Knowledge gives people the capability to do things and take advantage of

opportunities for change and development (Severin & Tankard, 2001). In

communication, KAP is given due consideration as these data guide the development of

strategies to disseminate the information effectively (e.g., Paisley, 1008).

Adhikarya and Posamentier (1987) explained clearly the value of determining

KAP before designing a communication intervention. According to them, to plan an

effective communication campaign strategy, baseline data of the knowledge, attitude, and

practices of the intended audiences should first be looked into. This is clearly supported

by the audience analysis by Escalada, et al (2006) on Vietnam rice farmers’ knowledge,

attitude, and practices regarding environmental issues/problems that result in wrong

farming practices. The study showed that although majority of the farmers are aware of

the environmental issues many still exhibited knowledge gaps. These knowledge gaps

became a basis for the improvement of the environmental radio soap opera in Vietnam.

In Bangladesh, Adhikarya and Posamentier (1987) attribute the success in

addressing the rodent problem of farmers to utilization of baseline data surveys and

information needs assessment. These studies were conducted and the results were used as

7

inputs for campaign planning and strategy development, message design, development

and pretesting, media-mix selection and evaluation.

Socio-demographic Characteristics and KAP

Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) survey can be utilized to analyze which

specific elements of the technology package are not known to the target beneficiaries

(Adhikarya, 1994). KAP survey also measures the effectiveness of communication

approaches in bringing about some changes in the life of the people who are supposed to

benefit from introduced innovations. In the process of determining the effects, there are

other elements or factors which have to be looked into, such as the socio-demographic

characteristics.

Many studies have shown a direct relationship between age and attitude. An

example is the study of Virtudazo (1997) and Balaba (2000). Virtudazo (1997) found that

older farmers had high perception and positive attitude towards iodized salt. In the area of

forest conservation, Balaba (2000) found that older people tend to have positive attitude

towards forest conservation especially the stopping of kaingin practice. In cancer

prevention, Pesquera (2001) also found that age was significantly related to respondents’

practice of cancer preventive measures. That is, middle-aged women were the ones who

practiced breast self-examination.

As regards to educational attainment, Soliveres (2000) observed that only

educational attainment was significantly related to the respondents’ attitude towards

coconut-based farming system. Those with very low educational attainment had negative

attitude towards coconut-based farming system, while relatively higher educational

8

attainment had positive attitude towards it. On abaca, Pala (1995) found that in the use of

recommended varieties and planting method, respondents who had an elementary

education tended to practice more.

With regard to the type of community, the studies of Panilag (2003) and Udtuhan

(2004) did not show much difference between rural and urban residents in terms of media

access and KAP levels. More specifically, Panilag (2003) found out that in Ormoc City

(an urban area), food consumers’ socio-demographic characteristics were not

significantly related to their perceptions of genetically modified (GM) foods. The

respondents were highly exposed to broadcast media, but many were not exposed to

information regarding GM foods. Only their exposure to printed materials, internet, and

group media like seminars were related to their exposure to information on GM foods.

Those who were exposed had positive perceptions of GM foods.

Udtuhan (2004) also found that rural residents in Julita and Palo, Leyte were

highly exposed to media sources. However, they had little exposure on information

regarding Schistosomiasis. Although they had low knowledge and practice level

regarding Schistosomiasis preventive measures, they have positive attitude towards these

practices.

9

CHAPTER III

THEORETICAL AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Albert Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory (1977) explains human behavior in

terms of continuous reciprocal interaction between cognitive, behavioral and

environmental influences. Bandura describes humans as dynamic, information

processing, problem solving, and above all, social organisms (Hergenhahn & Olson,

1997).

In this theory, he recognizes that human beings are capable of cognition or

thinking and that they can benefit from observation and experience (Severin & Tankard,

2001). However, learning could be exceedingly laborious, not to mention hazardous, if

people had to rely solely on the effect of their own actions to inform them what to do.

Thus, from observing others, one forms an idea of how new behaviors are performed, and

on later occasions this coded information serves as a guide for action (Bandura, 1977).

Bandura’s social cognitive theory also points out that human learning takes place

through watching other people model various behaviors (Severin & Tankard, 2001). In

his theory a model could be anything that conveys information, such as a person, film,

television, picture, or instructions (Hergenhahn & Olson, 1997). Thus, his environment

influences a person’s perception, knowledge, attitude and practice.

Four sub processes govern observational learning: attention, retention, production

and motivation. The attention sub process is influenced both by characteristics of the

modeled activities such as functional value, uniqueness, and complexity and by

characteristics of the models, such as similarity to the viewer, physical attractiveness, and

other personal qualities. Memory formation, as described by the retention sub process, is

10

Influence on the Individual’s Cognition and Behavior

the next important step in the learning process. People retain complex information only if

they are able to organize it into easily remembered forms. Retention is in part a function

of the modeled event and in part a function of the observers, information processing

strategies. Modeling that divides complex behavior into its component parts facilitates the

processing, organization, and retention of the information. Observers who actively

process modeled information into either verbal representations or vivid visual images

retain more information than observers who fail to engage in active processing. Cognitive

or behavioral rehearsal of modeled information further enhances its retention and

promotes ability to reproduce the behavior (Maibach & Flora, 1993).

Figure 1. Theorized relationship among variables of Albert Bandura’s Social Cognitive Theory

11

Radio Television

INDIVIDUAL

Printed Materials

Contact with Health Workers

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This research addressed the relationship between media access and information

needs on dengue prevention and control among rural and urban mothers. Data on

mothers’ risk perception, knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue prevention and

treatment was gathered and analyzed. It was hypothesized that the respondents’

information needs on dengue prevention and treatment as indicated by their KAP levels,

will be influenced by their background characteristics and communication environment.

The background characteristics considered in this study were age, educational

attainment and location. The communication environment pertains to respondents’ access

and exposure to radio, television, printed materials, and contact with health workers.

The conceptualized relationships among the variables in this study are shown in

Figure 2.

12

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE

Background Characteristics

1. Age

2. Educational Attainment

3. Type of community

Media Access and Exposure to Information on Dengue Prevention and Control

1. Radio listenership

2. TV viewership

3. Print readership

4. Contact with health workers

Figure 2. Conceptualized relationship between independent and dependent variables

KAP on Dengue Prevention and Control

13

Statement of Hypotheses

The hypotheses tested were:

1. There is no relationship between respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics

and their knowledge, attitude, and practice of dengue prevention and control

measures.

2. There is no relationship between respondents’ media access and exposure and

knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue prevention and control measures.

3. There is no relationship between respondents’ information exposure and their

knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue prevention and control measures.

4. There are no differences between rural and urban mothers’ media access and

information exposure, and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices on dengue

prevention and control measures.

14

OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS

The terms used in this study were operationally defined as follows:

1. Knowledge – referred to knowledge on dengue retained, known and understood

by the respondents. This was determined through the respondents’ answer to 6

knowledge questions. Every correct answer was given a score of 1. Based on their scores,

respondents were classified as having high (23 and above), average (17-22 points) and

low (11-16 points) knowledge of dengue prevention and control.

2. Attitude towards dengue prevention and control – referred to respondents’

responses to a set of attitude statements regarding dengue prevention and control.

Responses could be strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree and undecided.

This variable was measured using a Likert-type scale with the following equivalents: 5

for strongly agree, 4 for agree, 3 for no opinions, 2 for disagree, and 1 for strongly

disagree. The scores were reversed for negative statements. The highest possible score a

respondent could get was 40. The respondents’ attitude scores were categorized as

positive (21-40), neutral (20), and negative (19 and below). Their answers were

categorized into high (23 and above), moderate (17-22), and low (11-16 points).

3. Practice – referred to the respondents’ application of the preventive measures

and treatment of dengue. This was measured by the respondents’ answers to practice

questions. The identified practice statements was given 1 point each and the answers

were categorized as follows: high (6-10 points) and low (1-5 points)

4. Information needs – referred to information gaps between the information on

dengue prevention and control that the respondents should know and their current

15

knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue prevention and treatment. Information needs

was categorized as knowledge, attitude and practice gaps.

5. Background characteristics – referred to the background profile of the

respondents. These include the following:

5.1 Age – referred to the respondents’ age on their last birthday at the time of the

study. Using NEDA’s age classification, the respondents was categorized as follows:

Young – 21 years old and below

Middle aged – 22-45 years old

Old – 46-64 years

Senior citizen – 65 years old and above

5.2 Educational attainment – referred to the respondents’ number of years of

schooling. Respondents’ educational attainment was classified as elementary, high

school, and college.

6. Media access – referred to the respondents’ perceived degree of access to

information sources. These sources included radio, TV, printed materials and

interpersonal sources. This was categorized as follows:

Highly accessible

Moderately accessible

Poorly accessible

Inaccessible

7. Media exposure – referred to the extent to which the respondents are exposed

to communication media. This variable was measured using the media exposure indices.

This covered the following variables:

16

7.1 Radio listenership – referred to the respondents’ exposure to radio carrying

health information especially dengue. This was measured in terms of duration and

categorized as follows:

Low – for those who listen an hour or less a day

Moderate – for those who listen more than an hour to 4 hours a day

High – for those who listen more than 4 hours to 10 hours a day

7.2 TV viewership – referred to the respondents’ exposure to TV carrying health

information especially dengue, which was measured in terms of duration and was

categorized as follows:

Low – for those who watch an hour or less a day

Moderate – for those who watch more than an hour to 4 hours a day

High – for those who watch more than 4 hours to 10 hours a day

7.3 Print readership – referred to the respondents’ exposure to printed materials.

This was measured in terms of duration and was categorized as follows:

Low – for those who read a an hour or less day

Moderate – for those who read more than an hour to 4 hours a day

High – for those who read a more than 4 hours to 10 hours day

7.4 Contact with health workers – referred to the respondents’ frequency of

contact with health workers to get information on dengue.

17

CHAPTER IV

METHODOLOGY

Location of the study

This study was conducted in two areas in Leyte - Ormoc City and Albuera, Leyte.

These places were chosen as study sites in order to establish a basis for comparison –

Ormoc City as an urban area and Albuera, Leyte as a rural area. Specific barangays were

determined upon consultation with the City Health Unit in Ormoc and the Rural Health

Unit in Albuera. Basis for choosing the barangays was the occurrence of dengue cases.

These research areas were accessible to all means of transportation.

Research Design and Sampling Procedure

This study followed the one-shot survey research design. A total of 100 mothers

were chosen through random sampling procedure – 50 from Albuera, Leyte and another

50 from Ormoc City. Names were obtained from the barangay secretary of the chosen

site or municipality. Their names were written on pieces of paper which were then placed

in a box and were drawn randomly.

Data Gathering Instrument

Data were gathered through the use of a pretested translated interview schedule.

The interview schedules were divided into five (5) parts. Part I consisted of the socio-

demographic characteristics of the respondents. Part II consisted of questions related to

respondents’ media access and exposure. Part III dealt with knowledge questions on

18

dengue prevention and treatment. Part IV covered the attitude statements towards dengue

and Part V focused on the practice of dengue prevention and control.

Data Gathering Procedure

A barangay health worker was tapped to help in locating the houses and identify

the respondents. The interview schedule was administered by an interviewer and another

person jotted down the responses of the interviewee.

A focus group discussion (FGD) was also done in the selected sites. Some of the

participants were the respondents of the study. The FGD was conducted to complement

the results of the individual interview.

Translation and Pretesting

Prior to data gathering, the draft questionnaire was translated to Cebuano, the

dialect understood by the residents of Albuera, Leyte and Ormoc City. It was pretested

among women with similar characteristics as the final survey respondents. The results

served as guide for necessary modifications of the interview schedule.

Data Processing and Analysis

Data were encoded into the computer using the spreadsheet program, Microsoft

Excel, and was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)

version 13.0.

Data gathered in the survey were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as

ranks, percentages, frequency counts, means and totals. In addition, the relationships

19

between rural and urban mothers’ communication environment, background

characteristics and their knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue prevention and

control were analyzed using appropriate statistical tests such as the independent sample t-

test and the Pearson product-moment correlation. The data requirements matrix in

Appendix A showed the analytical tools used in this study.

20

CHAPTER V

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The survey involved 100 mothers as respondents – 50 from a rural area and 50

from an urban area. They were identified randomly from a barangay of each of the study

site. Upon inquiry with the City Health Office of Ormoc regarding the barangay with the

highest prevalence of dengue, Barangay Linao, was chosen the study site for the urban

respondents. Likewise, the Rural Health Unit of Albuera, Leyte identified Barangay

Seguinon as a suitable study site for the rural respondents. Some of the respondents had

experiences with family members having dengue fever, others have not.

Locale of the Study

Barangay Seguinon, Albuera, Leyte is a rural coastal barangay situated north of

the town proper. It has boundaries adjacent to barangay Talisayan on the south, barangay

Benolho on the north, barangay Dona Maria on the East and the Camotes Sea on the

west. Most of its inhabitants have a source of livelihood in farming and fishing. Some of

the inhabitants are working in the government and the private sector. It also has

numerous beach resorts near the coast which contribute to the barangay’s revenue.

Barangay Linao, Ormoc City is an urban barangay situated north of the city

proper. It is one of the highest in Ormoc in terms of population and land area. Some of

the respondents earn their living by fishing on the Ormoc Bay. Other respondents have

occupations such as construction workers in construction firms like the Mac Builders

which is situated in the barangay. Some work in the government and private sectors.

Another private corporation situated in the barangay is the Petron Refilling Station.

21

Figure 3. Location map of the study sites ( Brgy. Linao, Ormoc City and Brgy. Seguinon, Albuera, Leyte)

22

Respondents’ Socio-Demographic Characteristics

Age. A little more than three-fifths (62%) of the rural respondents were middle

aged (22-45 years old). A little less than one-third (32 %) were old (46-64 years old), and

a few (4%) belonged to the young age bracket (21 years old and below). Only 2 percent

belonged to the senior citizen. Among the urban respondents, the majority (84%)

belonged to the middle aged group while the young and old constituted 8 percent,

respectively (Table 1).

Educational Attainment. Exactly two-fifths (40%) of the rural respondents had

elementary education and a little less than two-fifths (38%) reached high school. Slightly

more than one-fifth (22%) had a college education or graduated from college. A little

more than two-fifths (44.9%) of the urban respondents went to high school and slightly

less than one-third (32.7%) have graduated or reached college. A little more than one-

fifth (22.4%) of the urban respondents had elementary education (Table 1).

Table 1. Respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics

VariableRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Age of respondentsYoung 2 4 4 8Middle aged 31 62 42 84Old 16 32 4 8Senior citizen 1 2 0 0 TOTAL 50 100 50 100

Educational attainmentElementary 20 40 11 22.4High School 19 38 22 44.9College 11 22 16 32.7

  TOTAL 50 100 49 100

23

Respondents’ Access to Information Sources

Exposure to television. A little more than four-fifths (82%) of the rural mothers

watched television while less than one one-fifth (18%) did not watch TV. Out of those

who did not watch TV, the majority (88.9%) of the rural respondents answered that they

were busy doing other chores while others (11.1%) said that watching TV gave them

nausea. Among the urban respondents, almost all (94%) watched TV. Only 6 percent did

not watch TV (Table 2).

TV viewership. A big number (92.7%) of the rural respondents owned their TV

sets. Only a few watched from their neighbors’ (4.9%) and friends’ (2.4%) TV set.

Among urban respondents, the majority (85.1%) also owned their TV sets. More than

one-tenth (12.8%) watched from their neighbors and a few (2.1%) watched from their

relatives.

Frequency of TV viewing. All (100%) of the rural respondents watched TV

daily. The majority (89.8%) of the urban respondents watched TV daily while less than

one-tenth (4.1%) watched twice a week and seldom, respectively (Table 2).

Hours of TV watching. More than three-fifths (65.9%) of the rural mothers had

low (1-6 hours) hours of TV viewing, slightly more than one-fourth (26.8%) had

moderate (7-13 hours) and less than one-tenth (7.3%) had high (14-20 hours) TV viewing

duration. Among urban respondents, the majority (83 %) had low TV viewing hours and

less than one-fifth (17%) had moderate TV viewing (Table 2).

24

Table 2. Respondents’ access and exposure to TV

TV viewershipRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Watch TVYes 41 82 47 94No 9 18 3 6 TOTAL 50 100 50 100

Reasons for not watching TVbusy doing other chores 8 88.9 1 33.3I don't like watching TV 0 0.0 1 33.3It gives me nausea 1 11.1 0 0.0I have no TV 0 0 1 33.3 TOTAL 9 100 3 100

Whose TV set is usedPersonal 38 92.7 40 85.1From neighbors 2 4.9 6 12.8From friends 1 2.4 0 0From relatives 0 0 1 2.1 TOTAL 41 100 47 100

Frequency of watchingDaily 41 100 44 89.8Twice a week 0 0 2 4.1Once a week 0 0 1 2.0seldom 0 0 2 4.1 TOTAL 41 100 49 100

Hours of TV viewingLow (1-6) hrs 27 65.9 39 83.0Moderate (7-13) hrs 11 26.8 8 17.0High (14-20) hrs 3 7.3 0 0

  TOTAL 41 100 47 100

Exposure to radio. Three-fifths (60%) of the rural respondents listened to the

radio while the other two-fifths (40%) did not. Of those rural respondents who did not

listen, three-fourths (75%) said that they were busy and 25 percent had no radio. More

than two-thirds (68%) of the urban respondents listened to the radio and the remaining 32

25

percent did not. Less than two-thirds (62.5%) of those who did not listen had no radio

sets and the remaining 37.5 percent answered that they were busy doing other chores

(Table 3).

Radio listenership. Slightly less than three-fourths (73.5%) of rural respondents

had their own radio sets while less than one-fourth (23.5%) listened to radio from

neighbors. Only one respondent listened through her friends’ radio. Among urban

respondents, the majority (76.5%) had their own radio sets, slightly more than one-fifth

(20.6%) listened from neighbors, and only one listened from her friends’ radio sets

(Table 3).

Frequency of radio listening. More than half (54.5%) of the rural respondents

listened to radio every day, more than one-fifth (22.7%) seldom listened to radio, and

more than one-tenth (13.6%) listened twice a week. Less than one-third (32.4%) of

urban respondents listened to the radio daily, while a little less than one-half (47.1%)

seldom listened to radio. Six respondents listened twice a week and another listened only

once a week.

Hours of listening to radio. More than half (58.3%) of the rural respondents

listened to radio from 1 to 4 hours, slightly more than one-fifth (20.8%) tuned in for 5 to

8 hours and another 20.8 percent listened from 9 to 12 hours. The majority (85.3%) of

urban respondents reported a lower listening duration. Three urban respondents had

moderate, and two had high listening hours (Table 3).

26

Table 3. Respondents’ access and exposure to radio

Radio ListenershipRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Listen to the radioYes 30 60 34 68No 20 40 16 32 TOTAL 50 100 50 100

Reasons for not listeningBusy doing other chores 15 75 6 37.5I have no radio 5 25 10 62.5 TOTAL 20 100 16 100

Whose radio was listened toPersonal 25 73.5 26 76.5From neighbors 8 23.5 7 20.6From friends 1 2.9 1 2.9 TOTAL 34 100 34 100

Frequency of radio listeningDaily 12 54.5 11 32.4Twice a week 3 13.6 6 17.6Once a week 2 9.1 1 2.9Seldom 5 22.7 16 47.1 TOTAL 22 100 34 100

Hours of listening to radio 1-4 14 58.3 29 85.3 5-8 5 20.8 3 8.8 9-12 5 20.8 2 5.9

  TOTAL 24 100 34 100

Exposure to printed materials. Three-fifths of the rural respondents (60%) read

printed materials while the other two-fifths (40%) did not. Of those who did not read,

almost half (45%) said that they could not buy printed materials. One-third (30%) said

that they were busy doing other chores, one-fifth (20%) admitted that they could not read,

and 5 percent had poor vision. Among urban respondents, more than three-fourths (77%)

27

read printed materials while the remainder (22.4%) did not. Of those who did not read,

more than half (54.5%) said that they were busy doing other chores, more than one-fourth

(27.3%) could not buy printed materials while less than one-fifth (18.2%) could not read

(Table 4).

Print Readership. The majority (83.3%) of rural respondents had their own print

materials to read, more than one-tenth (13.3%) read their neighbors’ materials, while 3

percent read their friends’ printed materials. Among urban respondents, the majority

(86.8%) had their printed materials to read, one-tenth (10.5%) read their neighbors’, and

only one respondent read their friends’ printed materials (Table 4).

Frequency of reading. Close to two-thirds (63.3%) of rural respondents seldom

read printed materials. Less than one-third (30%) answered that they only read if they

happened to have one, one respondent read twice a week, and another read once a week.

Less than one-third (28.1%) of urban respondents read print materials daily, more than

one-third (34.4%) read once a week, more than one-tenth (12.5%) read twice a week, and

one-fourth (25%) seldom read (Table 4).

Hours of reading. All rural respondents read print materials from 1 to 6 hours.

Likewise, almost all (97%) of urban respondents spent 1 to 6 hours reading, and only 3

percent read from 7 to 13 hours (Table 4).

Exposure to health workers. Less than two-thirds (64%) of rural respondents

had no contact with health workers or medical practitioners regarding information on

dengue, while the remaining 36 percent had encountered a health worker who gave

information on dengue. In the case of urban respondents, less than two-thirds (62.5%) of

28

the respondents had encountered health workers who gave information on dengue. Less

than two-fifths (37.5%) of urban mothers have not encountered a health worker.

Table 4. Respondents’ access and exposure to printed materials

Print Media ReadershipRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Read printed materialsYes 30 60 38 77.6No 20 40 11 22.4 TOTAL 50 100 49 100

Reason for not reading printed materials

Busy doing other chores 6 30 6 54.5Can't buy printed materials 9 45 3 27.3Can't read 4 20 2 18.2Poor vision 1 5 0 0 TOTAL 20 100 11 100

Place where print materials were readPersonal 25 83.3 33 86.8From neighbors 4 13.3 4 10.5From friends 1 3.3 1 2.6 TOTAL 30 100 38 100

Frequency of reading print materialsDaily 0 0 9 28.1Twice a week 1 3.3 4 12.5Once a week 1 3.3 11 34.4Seldom 19 63.3 8 25If I happen to have one 9 30 0 0

TOTAL 30 100 32 100

Hours of reading printed materials per day

1-6 9 100 32 97.0 7-13 0 0 1 3.0

  TOTAL 9 100 33 100

29

The majority (82.6%) of rural respondents did not purposely approach a health

worker or medical practitioner to ask for information on dengue while only 17.4 percent

of respondents approached a health worker. Half (50%) of those who approached did so

because their family members were diagnosed with dengue. One-fourth (25%) wanted to

know the right thing to do, and another one-fourth (25%) wanted to enrich their

knowledge.

Likewise, nearly three-fourths (74.5%) of urban respondents did not purposely

seek a health worker or medical practitioner to solicit information on dengue. Slightly

more than one-fourth (25.5%) approached a health worker. More than two-fifths (45%)

approached a health worker in order to know the right thing to do. Another 45 percent

wanted to extend their knowledge on dengue, and less than 10 percent approached one

because their family member had dengue fever.

Frequency of contact with health worker. Slightly more than two-fifths

(40.9%) of rural respondents consulted health workers or medical practitioners only when

they needed it, less than one-third (29.5%) had not consulted one. Less than one fifth

(15.9%) seldom consulted a medical practitioner, others consulted weekly (2.3%),

monthly (9.1%), and during emergency (2.3%). Among urban respondents, more than

half (51%) only consulted medical practitioners if they needed it, while more than one-

tenths (14.3%) seldom consulted. Others consulted monthly (12.2%), weekly (6.1%),

daily (2%), once (8.2%) and none (2%), Table 5.

30

Table 5. Respondents’ contact with health workers and medical practitioners

Contact w/ Interpersonal Sources

Rural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Contact with health workers and medical practitioners regarding dengue

Yes 18 36 30 62.5No 32 64 18 37.5 TOTAL 50 100 48 100

Approached health workers to ask for info on dengue

Yes 8 17.4 12 25.5No 38 82.6 35 74.5 TOTAL 46 100 47 100

Reasons for approaching health workers

To know the right thing to do 2 25 5 45.5 Because my relatives had been been diagnosed with dengue 4 50 1 9.1 For further knowledge 2 25 5 45.5

TOTAL 8 100 11 100

Frequency of consulting w/ a health worker

Daily 0 0 1 2.0Weekly 1 2.3 3 6.1Monthly 4 9.1 6 12.2Other 39 86 39 79.6

Respondents’ Information Exposure on Dengue Prevention and Control

Exposure to Information. The majority (84%) of rural respondents were

exposed to information regarding dengue prevention and control while others (16%) were

not. Likewise, urban respondents were exposed to information on dengue (88%) and only

more than one-tenths (12%) were not (Table 6).

31

Sources of information. More than three-fourths (78.6%) of rural respondents

got information regarding dengue prevention and control from TV, followed by radio

(16.7%), seminars (9.5%), others who had the disease (7.1%), newspaper (2.4%), and

posters (2.4%). Likewise, urban respondents got information on dengue mainly from TV

(93.2%), 20.5 percent from radio and newspaper respectively, seminars (13.6%),

magazine (9.1%), and from those who encountered the disease (Table 6).

Information on dengue received. Regarding the specific information on dengue

that respondents received, less than half (41.9%) reported that they have obtained

information on the symptoms of dengue followed by the need to clean their surroundings

(37.2%), that dengue is dangerous (23.3%), and the need to avoid stagnant water

(16.3%). Among urban respondents, less than two-thirds (63.6%) answered cleaning the

surroundings, followed by dengue is dangerous (38.6%), symptoms of dengue (29.5%),

and avoid having stagnant water (20.5%), Table 6.

Respondents’ Knowledge on Dengue and its Prevention and Control

Understanding of dengue disease. When asked about their understanding of

dengue, the respondents’ top answer was that it is a disease transmitted through a

mosquito bite (23.2%). This was followed by dengue-carrying mosquitoes live in

discarded tires, flower pots, and empty cans close to human dwelling (15.8%) and dengue

may cause death but is curable (15.5%). Other answers were: dengue is a severe flu-like

illness caused by a virus (12.0%), dengue-carrying mosquitoes bite during day time

(11.5%), dengue fever is an acute febrile infection characterized by sudden onset of fever

for 3-5 days (7.4%), dengue is diagnosed through blood test (7.2%), it leads to dengue

hemorrhage fever and death (2.6%), infection with one virus does not protect a person

32

against infection with another (2.6%), dengue and dengue hemorrhage are caused by any

of the dengue family of viruses (1.4%), and dengue viruses occur in most tropical areas

of the world (0.9%). Table 7 shows respondents’ knowledge of dengue.

Table 6. Respondents’ exposure to information on dengue

Exposure to informationRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Exposed to information about dengueprevention and control

Yes 42 84 44 88No 8 16 6 12

Sources of information on dengue prevention and control*

Radio 7 16.7 9 20.5TV 33 78.6 41 93.2Newspaper 1 2.4 9 20.5Magazine 0 0 4 9.1Posters 1 2.4 0 0Seminars 4 9.5 6 13.6Others who encounter 3 7.1 2 4.5

What information on dengue received*

Clean the surroundings 16 37.2 28 63.6Throw the garbage properly 1 2.3 1 2.3Dengue is dangerous 10 23.3 17 38.6Empty the cans with water 4 4.6 0 0Symptoms of dengue 18 41.9 13 29.5Keep the containers covered 4 9.3 2 4.5Avoid having stagnant water 7 16.3 9 20.5The 4:00 o'clock habit 1 2.3 0 0Be alert 7 8.0 6 6.9

*Multiple response

33

Known dengue prevention measures. The dengue preventive measure mostly

known by respondents was to eliminate stagnant waters (26.2%). It was followed by

disposing solid waste properly (20.8%), burning dried leaves every afternoon (20.4%),

covering opened water containers (19.5%), and staying in air-conditioned house or those

with screen (13%), Table 7.

Symptoms of dengue. The most widely known symptom of dengue is high fever

(46.3%), followed by having rashes (16.4%) and vomiting (10.4%). Other known

symptoms were severe headache (8.5%), muscle and joint pain (8.5%), nausea (4%), loss

of appetite (3.5%), and pain behind the eyes (2.5%). Table 7 shows respondents’

knowledge of dengue.

Treatment of dengue. Less than half (43.6%) of the respondents did not know

any treatment for dengue. However, more than one-fourth (26.9%) answered that dengue

can be treated with bed rest and drinking plenty of water. More than one-tenth (14.1%) of

the answers was that patients with dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) should have blood

transfusions to control bleeding. Slightly more than one-tenth (10.3%) of the answers

were DHF is treated by replacing lost fluids through dextrose (Table 7).

Table 7. Respondents’ knowledge on dengue

Variables Frequency PercentRespondents' understanding aboutdengue fever* (N= 349)

A severe flu-like illness caused by a virus 42 12.0Disease that may cause death but curable 54 15.5It leads to dengue hemorrhagic

fever and death 9 2.6

34

Table 7. ContinuedVariables Frequency PercentageA disease transmitted by a mosquito bite 81 23.2It is diagnosed only by blood test 25 7.2Infection with one virus does not avoid infection by another 9 2.6Dengue fever is caused by any

Of the strains of dengue viruses 5 1.4Dengue carrying mosquito bite during daylight 40 11.5Dengue viruses occur in tropical areas 3 0.9Dengue mosquitoes live on discarded tires, containers, etc. 55 15.8Dengue fever is an acutefebrile infection 26 7.4 TOTAL

Done to prevent dengue fever* (N= 221)Fogging every afternoon or use mosquito 45 20.4Stay in air conditioned or screened area 29 13.1Dispose solid waste properly 46 20.8Eliminate stagnant water 58 26.2Cover containers 43 19.5 TOTAL

Known symptoms of dengue fever* (N= 201)High fever 93 46.3Rashes 33 16.4Severe headache 17 8.5Pain behind the eyes 5 2.5Muscle and joint pains 17 8.5Nausea 8 4.0Vomiting 21 10.4Loss of appetite 7 3.5 TOTAL

How can dengue be treated?* (N= 78) Rest and drink plenty of water 21 26.9 Patient should be kept away from mosquitoes to avoid transmitting the disease 1 1.3 Patients with DHF should have blood

35

Table 7. Continued

transfusions to control bleeding 11 14.1

Hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids 8 10.3 Go to the traditional healer 3 3.8 I don't know 34 43.6  TOTAL  

*Multiple response

The study also determined the knowledge level of rural and urban mothers

regarding dengue and its prevention and control. In the questionnaire, the respondents

were given six knowledge questions on dengue. The highest possible knowledge score

was 28 points. Based on their scores, the respondents were categorized as having low

(1-9 points), average (10-18 points), and high (19 and above) knowledge.

Table 8 shows that both rural and urban respondents have low knowledge on

dengue prevention and control. More than two-thirds each of rural (68%) and urban

(66%) respondents exhibited low knowledge. There were more rural respondents who

had relatively higher knowledge (6%) than urban respondents (4%) regarding dengue

prevention and control as shown in Table 8. However, the difference between urban and

rural respondents’ knowledge on dengue prevention is slight.

Table 8. Respondents’ knowledge level on dengue prevention and control

Respondents’ knowledge on dengue

Rural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Low (1-9) 34 68 33 66Average (10-18) 13 26 15 30High (19 and above) 3 6 2 4

  TOTAL 50 100.0 50 100.0

Attitude Towards Dengue Prevention and Control

36

The study tried to determine respondents’ degree of agreement and disagreement

to attitudinal statements using the 5-point Likert scale namely, strongly agree – 5; agree –

4; no opinion – 3; disagree – 2; and strongly disagree – 1. The highest possible score that

respondents could get was 40. Based on their scores, respondents were classified as

having positive (21 and above), neutral (20), and negative attitude (19 and below).

Generally, all urban and rural respondents exhibited positive attitude towards

dengue prevention and control as shown in Table 9.

Table 9. Respondents’ attitude level on dengue prevention and control

Respondents' Attitude LevelsRural Urban

No. Percent No. Percent

Negative (1-19) 0 0 0 0

Neutral (20) 0 0 0 0

Positive (21-40) 50 100 50 100

TOTAL 50 100 50 100           

More than two-thirds (68%) and more than one-half (56%) of urban respondents

agreed that dengue prevention measures were easy to follow. One-fifth (20%) of rural

respondents strongly agreed that dengue prevention measures are were to follow and

more than one-fourth (28%) of urban respondents agreed that dengue prevention

measures were easy to follow (Figure 4).

Exactly half (50%) of urban respondents and a little less than half (44%) of their

rural counterparts strongly disagreed that dengue prevention gives no benefit to one’s

health and wellness. Less than one half (42%) of rural and urban (44%) respondents also

disagreed with the notion that prevention gives no benefit to ones health and wellness. A

37

little more than one-tenth (14%) of rural respondents had no opinion on the statement

(Figure 5).

Almost all (90%) of rural respondents and more than half (58%) of urban

respondents agreed with the statement that dengue prevention helps avoid expenses that

may be incurred for treatment, while 6 percent of rural respondents strongly agreed. More

than one-third (36%) of urban respondents strongly agreed with the statement (Figure 6).

More than two-thirds (68%) of rural respondents agreed that dengue prevention

and control measures help avoid study or work days for treatment and little more than

one-fourth (26%) strongly agreed. Among urban respondents, more than half (56%)

strongly agreed to the statement, while a little more than one-third (36%) agreed (Figure

7).

More than half (56%) of urban respondents strongly disagreed to the statement

that one will never get dengue because one is healthy, little less than one-fourth (24%)

disagreed. Likewise, more than half (54%) of urban mothers strongly disagreed with the

statement and more than one-third (36%) disagreed. Close to one-fifth (18%) of rural

respondents and another 2 percent from urban areas however, had no opinion with the

statement (Figure 8).

Three-fifths each (60%) of rural and urban respondents strongly disagreed with

the statement, “I don’t care if I get dengue”. Two-fifths of rural respondents (40%) and

slightly less than two-fifths (38%) of their counterparts disagreed with the statement

(Figure 9).

More than half (52%) of rural respondents disagreed and more than two-fifths

(42%) strongly disagreed that there is nothing alarming about dengue and DHF.

38

0 2

12

68

20

0 2

14

56

28

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

44 42

14

0 0

50

44

2 2 00

10

20

30

40

50

60

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

40 0

90

62 2 2

56

36

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

100

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

Likewise, a little less than half (48%) of urban respondents disagreed and more than two-

fifths strongly disagreed with the statement (Figure 10).

More than three-fifths (64%) of urban respondents strongly disagreed and a little

more than one-third (34%) disagreed that limited knowledge about dengue prevention

and control does not matter. More than half (56%) of rural respondents disagreed and

close to two-fifths (34%) strongly disagreed with the statement (Figure 11).

Figure 4. Responses to statement “Dengue prevention measures are easy to follow”.

Figure 5. Responses to statement “Dengue awareness and prevention gives no benefit to one’s health and wellness”.

39

2 2 2

68

26

0

8

0

36

56

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

56

24

18

2 0

54

36

24 4

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

Figure 6. Responses to statements “Dengue awareness and prevention helps

avoid expenses that may be incurred for treatment”.

Figure 7. Responses to statement “Dengue awareness and prevention helps avoid lost work/study days for treatment”.

40

60

40

0 0 0

60

38

0 0 2

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

42

52

24

0

4648

42

00

10

20

30

40

50

60

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

Figure 8. Responses to statement “I would never get dengue fever because I am healthy”.

Figure 9. Responses to statement “I don’t care if I get dengue fever”.

41

38

56

4 2 0

64

34

2 0 00

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

StronglyDisagree

Disagree No Opinion Agree Strongly Agree

Rural Urban

Figure 10. Responses to statement “There’s nothing alarming about dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever”.

Figure 11. Responses to statement “It doesn’t matter if my knowledge about dengue is limited”.

Respondents’ Practices of Dengue Prevention and Control

42

When asked what they usually did to avoid mosquito bites, more than two-fifths

(42.5%) stated that they used insect repellants, followed by 41 percent who opted for

sleeping under the mosquito net. Six percent of the respondents answered wearing

pajamas and long sleeves, using electric fan (4.2%), keeping the surroundings clean

(4.2%), and doing nothing (2.4%), (Table 10).

Most dengue prevention practices involved using mosquito repellants (23.7%),

followed by sleeping under the mosquito net (21.3%), and disposing solid waste properly

(19.8%). A little less than one-fifth (19.1%) of the respondents reported that by staying in

air conditioned or screened areas, they can avoid mosquito bites. More than one-tenth of

the responses (15.8%) included eliminating stagnant water and the remaining 0.3 percent

pointed to covering empty containers (Table 10).

When someone in the family got sick, more than half (53.8%) of the respondents

gave them medication and let them rest, followed by consulting the physician (34.8%),

and applying traditional herbal treatment (11.4%), (Table 10).

Table 10. Respondents practices of dengue prevention and control

Variables Frequency PercentAction taken to avoid being bit by mosquitoes* (N=168)    

Use insect repellant 71 42.3Sleep under mosquito net 69 41.1Nothing 4 2.4Use electric fan 7 4.2Keep the surrounding clean 7 4.2Wear pajamas or long sleeves 10 6.0

* Multiple response

Dengue prevention practices* (N= 329)

43

24

76

60

40

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

Low High

Rural

Urban

Use mosquito repellants 78 23.7Stay in air conditioned or screened areas 63 19.1Use mosquito net 70 21.3Dispose solid waste properly 65 19.8Eliminate stagnant water 52 15.8Cover containers 1 0.3

Done when someone in the family is sick*(N= 142)

Give him/her medication & rest 71 53.8Consult physician 46 34.8Apply traditional treatment 15 11.4

*Multiple response

Respondents’ level of practice was determined by summing up respondents’

practice scores. The highest possible score was 10. Respondents with scores of 6 and

above were classified as having high practice level, while those with scores of 5 and

below were considered as having low practice.

Results in Figure 12 show that more than three-fourths (76%) of the rural

respondents had high practice level while a little less than one-fourths (24%) had low

practice level. On the other hand, more than half (60%) of urban respondents had low

practice levels with just two-fifths (40%) having high practice levels. This suggests that

rural respondents have relatively higher practice levels on dengue prevention and control

than urban respondents.

44

Figure 12. Practice levels of dengue prevention and control

Relationships of Variables

Socio Demographic Characteristics and KAP on Dengue Prevention and Control

The Pearson product-moment correlation was used to test the relationship

between respondents’ age and educational attainment and their knowledge, attitude and

practice on dengue prevention and control. Table 11 shows that while the correlation

coefficient was negative, the relationship between age and attitude was highly significant

(r=-.208, p<0.01). The strength of association is also weak. This negative correlation

suggests that age influenced the respondents’ attitude towards dengue prevention in a

reverse direction. This means that the older the respondents the less predisposed they

were towards dengue prevention and control.

On the other hand, age and knowledge (r=.045, p>.01) were not significantly

related. This means that knowledge on dengue prevention and control were not

45

influenced by the mothers’ ages. Likewise, age and practice were not also significantly

related (r=.178, p>.01). This means that practices on dengue prevention and control were

not influenced by the mothers’ ages.

Results in Table 12 reveal that respondents’ educational attainment had highly

significant relationship with their knowledge (r=.321, p<0.01), with a moderate strength

of association. Hence, the hypothesis that there is no significant relationship between

respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics and KAP on dengue prevention and

control is rejected. The positive correlation means that the higher the educational

attainment of respondents, the higher their knowledge level on dengue prevention and

control would be.

On the other hand, respondents’ education was not significantly related to their

attitude (r=.153, p<0.01) and practice (r=.016, p<0.01) on dengue prevention and control.

Table 11. Relationship between respondents’ age and knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and control

Variables Pearson Correlation Sig.(2-Tailed)

Remarks

Age and Knowledge

Age and Attitude

Age and Practice

.045

-.208*

.178

.659

.005

.077

NS

HS

NS

NS-Not Significant; S-Significant; HS-Highly Significant

Table 12. Relationship between respondents’ educational attainment and knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and control

VARIABLES Pearson Correlation Sig.(2-Tailed)

Remarks

46

Education and Knowledge

Education and Attitude

Education and Practice

.321**

.153

.016

.001

.130

.878

HS

NS

NS

NS-Not Significant; S-Significant; HS-Highly Significant

Media Access to Information Sources and KAP

The Pearson product-moment correlation was likewise used to determine the

relationship between respondents’ access to broadcast media as well as interpersonal

sources and knowledge, attitude, and practice on dengue prevention and control. Results

(Table 16) show that access to broadcast media and information sources had a highly

significant relationship to their knowledge on dengue prevention and control (r=.348,

p<0.01), with a moderate strength of association. Hence, the hypothesis that there is no

significant relationship between respondents’ access to broadcast media as well as

interpersonal sources and KAP on dengue prevention and control is rejected. The positive

correlation means that the more the respondents have access to broadcast media and

interpersonal sources, the higher will be their knowledge level on dengue prevention and

control.

On the other hand, respondents’ media access was not significantly related to their

attitude and practice on dengue prevention and control. This implies that respondents’

media access to broadcast media and information sources did not influence their attitude

and practices on dengue prevention and control.

Table 13. Relationship between respondents’ media access on information sources and knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and control

Variables Pearson Correlation Sig. Remarks

47

(2-Tailed)

Media access and Knowledge

Media access and Attitude

Media access and Practice

.348**

-.066

.007

.000

.516

.945

HS

NS

NS

NS-Not Significant, S-Significant, HS-Highly Significant

Exposure to information on dengue and KAP

The Pearson product-moment correlation was calculated to determine the

relationship between respondents’ exposure to information on dengue and knowledge,

attitude, and practice on dengue prevention and control. Surprisingly, results in Table 14

show that there was no significant relationship between mothers’ exposure to information

on dengue and their knowledge, attitude, and practice levels. Hence, the hypothesis that

there is no significant relationship between respondents’ exposure to information on

dengue and KAP on dengue prevention and control is accepted. This means that although

the respondents were exposed to information on dengue, this did not influence their

knowledge, attitude, and practice levels.

Table 14. . Relationship between respondents’ information exposure on dengue and knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and control

VARIABLES PEARSONCORRELATION

SIG.(2-TAILED)

REMARKS

Info exposure and KnowledgeInfo exposure and AttitudeInfo exposure and Practice

.168-.188.047

.120

.081

.665

NSNSNS

NS=Not Significant

Comparison of respondents’ media access, information exposure and KAP

48

Tables 19 and 20 present the differences between rural and urban respondents’

media access, information exposure, knowledge, attitude and use of dengue prevention

and control. Media access on dengue prevention and control were highly significant (t=-

3.305, p<0.01) and significant (t=-2.713, p<.01) for information exposure. Results of the

t-test showed no significant rural and urban differences in respondents’ knowledge,

attitude and practice of dengue prevention and control.

Table 20 further reveal that urban respondents had higher media access

(M=2.9800, SD=.95810 and M=2.3800, SD=.85452, respectively) and information

exposure (M=3.3409,SD=1.09848 and M=2.7209, SD=1.03108, respectively) than rural

respondents. However, rural respondents had relatively higher knowledge (M=8.5400,

SD=5.13972 and M=8.4400, SD=3.95980, respectively), attitude (M=27.7000,

SD=1.70533 and M=27.5200, SD=2.00245, respectively), and practice levels (M=7.14,

SD=1.641 and M=5.44, SD=1.897, respectively) than urban respondents.

Table 15. Differences between rural and urban mothers’ media access, information exposure and knowledge, attitude, and practice on dengue prevention

and control

Variable t df Sig. (2-tailed)

Media Access -3.305 98 .001Info Exposure -2.713 85 .008Knowledge 0.109 98 .913Attitude 0.484 98 .630Practice 4.792 98 .000

**p<.01 Highly significant; *p<.05 Significant

49

8.54

27.7

7.14

2.38 2.72

8.44

27.52

5.44

2.98 3.34

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

Media Access InformationExposure

Knowledge Attitude Practice

Rural Urban

Figure 13. Group statistics of rural-urban mothers’ media access, information exposure and knowledge, attitude, and practice on dengue prevention and

control

FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION

50

The researcher also conducted two focus group discussions (FGD) to gather in-

depth information and to probe if there was any difference in mothers’ media access,

information exposure, and knowledge, attitude and practice on dengue prevention and

control. The FGDs were conducted in barangay Seguinon, Albuera, Leyte, a rural area,

and barangay Linao, Ormoc City, an urban area. The researcher requested the barangay

secretaries of barangays Seguinon and Linao to pick out members of their community to

serve as participants of the FGD.

Each FGD had ten participants. Before the start of the discussion, the researcher

introduced himself to the participants and briefed them on the purpose of the discussion.

The researcher made it clear that the participants were free to air their opinions. He also

emphasized that their answers would be taken as opinions such that there would be no

wrong answers.

FGD in Seguinon

There were 10 participants in the FGD in Seguinon. Most of them resided in the

barangay proper while others had houses along rice fields. Most of their ages belonged to

the middle aged category and while two participants belong to the old. All of them were

plain housewives. The information derived by the researcher from the FGD, particularly

on the media access, information exposure and KAP on dengue prevention and control

affirmed the results of the survey.

Theme 1. Media Access and Information Exposure

Eight of ten participants had television and the majority watched TV daily. Only

one of the participants watched from her neighbors TV set on her favorite TV program.

More than half had radio sets and four participants listened every day. Some who owned

51

radio did not often listen because they like watching TV more and to lessen their electric

bills.

Regarding printed materials, more than half of the participants said they read

printed materials, but most of these materials were the books of their children. Some said

they read booklets on family planning, Bible, and brochures on direct selling. Three

participants could barely read because they complained of poor vision. Almost were

exposed to information on dengue prevention and control.

Theme 2: Knowledge on Dengue Prevention and Control

Almost all participants claimed that they were exposed to information on dengue.

When asked what they knew about dengue, they answered that dengue can be contracted

from mosquitoes. The majority said that dengue-carrying mosquitoes breed in dirty

places and stagnant waters. They added that dengue is a serious disease that may cause

death if not treated immediately.

The symptom that they can equate to dengue is the “on and off” fever. They

added that rashes and bleeding are also symptoms of dengue. They answered that

treatment of dengue is by blood transfusion and drinking “gatas-gatas”, a known herbal

remedy for dengue. However, they said that the best thing to do to treat dengue is by

bringing the dengue victim to the doctor if they have money and if the case is severe.

To prevent and control dengue, participants said that proper sanitation and

burning of dried leaves or “magdaob” during afternoon must be done.

Theme 3. Attitude Towards Dengue Prevention and Control

All of the respondents had high attitude towards dengue prevention and control.

They said that preventive measures are attainable. Furthermore, they said that it is the

52

responsibility of each community member to clean their surroundings and not counting

on the government to do it for them. They added that if the community will practice

dengue prevention measure together and not just by some individuals, the incidence of

dengue will drop.

Theme 4. Dengue Prevention and Control Practices

None of the participants had experienced that their family members got dengue.

However, many had known of dengue cases in the barangay. In 2007, three cases of

dengue had been reported within just a month. The participants said that it must have

been an outbreak. They said that whenever their family members exhibited primary

symptoms of dengue which is “on-and-off of high fever”, they gave them immediate

medication and “gatas-gatas”. If the situation was unmanageable, then that is the time

that they consulted a physician.

Theme 5. Need for Information on dengue

Most of respondents thought that there is a need to improve the community’s

knowledge on dengue.

FGD in Linao

There were 10 participants in the FGD in Linao. All of them resided within various

“puroks” in the barangay. Most of them belonged to the middle aged category, while one

participant belonged to the young age bracket. All of them were plain housewives. The

information derived by the researcher from the FGD, particularly on the media access,

information exposure and KAP on dengue prevention and control affirmed the results of

the survey.

Theme 1. Media Access and Information Exposure

53

Almost all participants watched TV and majority of them had their own TV sets.

Almost all watched TV daily. More than half listened to radio, and almost all have radio

sets at home. Regarding reading printed materials, more than half of the participants said

they read printed materials, but most of their materials were the Bible and brochures on

direct selling. Others had newspapers and magazines. Almost all have been exposed to

information on dengue through broadcast and interpersonal media.

Theme 2: Knowledge on Dengue Prevention and Control

Almost all participants have claimed that they were exposed to information on

dengue. When asked on what they know about dengue, they answered that it is acquired

by mosquitoes. Furthermore, many said that dengue carrying mosquitoes lay their eggs

on clean water unlike the notion that they thrive in stagnant and murky water. They added

that dengue is a serious disease that may cause death if not treated immediately.

The symptom that they can equate to dengue is “on and off” fever. They added

that rashes and bleeding are also symptoms of dengue. Majority said that there is no

medicine that can cure dengue. They answered that treatment of dengue is by blood

transfusion. Two participants said that drinking “gatas-gatas” is a known herbal remedy

for dengue. However, they said that the best thing to do to treat dengue is by bringing the

dengue victim to the doctor if they have money and if the case is severe.

Theme 3. Attitude Towards Dengue Prevention and Control

The participants said that dengue prevention practices are attainable if all are

dedicated like cleaning and eliminating stagnant waters. Majority have done some dengue

prevention practices not to prevent dengue but to eliminate the nuisance of mosquito bites

- in turn preventing dengue. However, they said that even if they clean their households,

54

there is still a high possibility that their family members can acquire the disease from

other unsanitary areas.

Theme 4. Dengue Prevention and Control Practices

None of the participants had experienced that their family members got dengue.

However, many had known of dengue cases in the barangay. They said that whenever

their family members exhibited primary symptoms of dengue which is “on-and-off of

high fever”, they give them immediate medication like over-the-counter drugs or hot

compress. If the situation was unmanageable, then that was the time that they consulted

the physician.

However, many jokingly thought that no matter how much prevention practices,

they could not dictate the mosquito on whom and when to bite. So, they said that it’s also

a matter of circumstance.

Theme 5. Need for Information on Dengue

The majority of respondents think that there is a need to improve the community’s

knowledge of dengue. They added that it is their responsibility to disseminate

information to others.

CHAPTER VI

SUMMARY, IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary

55

This study focused on rural and urban comparison of mothers’ media access and

information needs on dengue prevention and control : (1) determine respondents’ socio-

demographic characteristics; (2) find out respondents’ media access and their exposure to

information on dengue; (3) determine their knowledge, attitude, and practice of dengue

prevention and control measures; (4) find out the relationship between respondents’

socio-demographic characteristics and their knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue

prevention and control, (5) find out the relationship between respondents’ media access

and information exposure and their knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue

prevention and control and (6) compare respondents’ media access, exposure to

information, and their knowledge, attitude and practice of their dengue prevention and

control measures.

Data were gathered through personal interviews with 50 rural and 50 urban

respondents using an interview schedule. The data gathered in the interview schedule was

analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 13.0). The

results were presented in narrative, descriptive and tabular forms.

The Pearson product-moment correlation and independent sample t-test were used

to determine the significance differences between rural and urban mothers’ media access

and information needs on dengue prevention and control. To provide reasons that were

not available in the statistical analysis results, two separate focus group discussions

(FGDs) from rural and urban mothers were conducted.

Socio-Demographic Characteristics

56

A little more than three-fifths (62%) of the rural respondents were middle aged (22-

45 years old), a little less than one-third (32 %) are old (46-64 years old) and four percent

belonged to the young age bracket (21 yrs. old and below). Only two percent are senior

citizen. Among the urban respondents, the majority (84%) belonged to the middle aged

bracket.

Two-fifths (40%) of the rural respondents had elementary education and a little

less than two-fifths (38%) had reached high school. Slightly more than one-fifth (22%)

had a college education. A little more than two-fifths (44.9%) of the urban respondents

had studied in high school and slightly less than one-third (32.7%) have graduated or

reached college. A little more than one-fifth (22.4%) only had elementary education.

Media Access and Information Exposure

Among rural respondents, the information sources that they were most exposed to

and had access to was the television (82%), followed by radio (60%), printed materials

(60%), interpersonal contact (34%). Among urban respondents, their leading source of

information was the television (94%), followed by printed materials (77%), radio (68%),

and interpersonal contact (62%). The majority of the respondents claimed that they have

received information regarding dengue prevention and control.

Generally, the respondents had low knowledge level (62%) of dengue prevention

and control. A little less than one-third (33%) had average knowledge and only 5 percent

exhibited high knowledge. All had positive attitude towards dengue prevention and

control. Less than three-fifths (58%) had high practice levels while slightly less than half

had low practice levels.

57

Based on the t-test, no significant differences were noted in terms of the mothers’

knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue prevention and control in the two study sites

but had a highly significant difference in their media access and significant difference in

their information exposure. Rural mothers had higher knowledge and practice levels than

urban mothers on dengue prevention and control.

Results of the Pearson product-moment Correlation showed that respondents’

socio-demographic characteristics were significantly related to their knowledge and

attitude on dengue prevention and control. Age correlated with respondents’ attitude

(r=-.208, p<0.01), educational attainment with respondents’ knowledge (r=.321, p<0.01).

Moreover, media access to information sources showed significant relationship with

respondents’ knowledge (r=.348, p<0.01). On the other hand, exposure to information

sources of dengue had no significant relationship to their knowledge, attitude, and

practice on dengue prevention and control. There was also a highly significant difference

between rural and urban respondents’ media access (t=-3.305, p<0.01) and significant

difference on information exposure on dengue (t=-2.713, p<0.05).

Implications and Recommendations

Notable insights could be drawn from this study which may serve as a guide for

campaign planners at the Department of Health on strategic information dissemination of

dengue prevention and control measures.

58

Results of the study revealed that urban mothers had higher media access and

exposure to information but surprisingly had low knowledge and practice levels of

dengue prevention and control than rural mothers. It could be that mothers did not place

importance and trust in these media sources as far a health issues are concerned. It is

recommended that campaign strategies on dengue prevention and control focus more on

the urban setting where their high media access and information exposure can be used to

an advantage. Further, there is a need to examine the content of information materials on

dengue prevention and control to determine their readability and adequacy.

However, both urban and rural settings exhibited low knowledge and just half of

them had high practice levels. To address this, communication specialists can plan more

efficient information dissemination building on the positive attitude of respondents

towards dengue prevention and control.

Overall, there is a highly significant relationship between media access and

knowledge of respondents. This implies that the more access to media the respondents

had, the more they could acquire knowledge. Thus, a campaign on dengue prevention and

control can enhance its success with the use of broadcast and interpersonal channels for

information dissemination.

Another notable insight is that age and educational attainment have a significant

relationship to the respondents’ attitude and knowledge, respectively. This implies that

socio-demographic characteristics such as age and educational attainment need to be

considered when planning a communication campaign for dengue in the future.

Based on the FGDs, respondents said that there is a higher need for information

on dengue prevention and control that must be disseminated effectively and that it is not

59

only the role of the people to prevent dengue, but also a joint effort with the government.

FGD participants from barangays Seguinon and Linao pushed for the government

undertaking an efficient waste disposal site so as address their problem of garbage

disposal and sanitation – one of the contributing factors to the occurrence of dengue.

Suggestions for Further Research

The study was limited to only 100 respondents who came from Albuera and

Ormoc City in Leyte. Hence, results may not be generalized to hold true to other areas in

Leyte. It is recommended that a similar study with a larger sample size and scope be

conducted to come up with results that would validate the relationship between media

access and information needs and KAP of mothers in Leyte.

It is also suggested that a similar study be done in other rural and other highly

urbanized areas to clearly validate and establish the difference between media access,

information needs and KAP of the two areas.

Moreover, a field evaluation of the available campaign materials being used by

the DOH, may need to be conducted to determine which of these communication media

would be most effective in disseminating information on dengue prevention and control.

LITERATURE CITED

Adhikarya, R and Posamentier, H. (1987). Motivating farmers for action. Eschborn,Germany, GTZ. pp. 13-62

Bandura, A. (1977). Social learning theory. New York: General Learning Press.

60

Balaba, M. (2000). Information needs on forest conservation among upland farmers inJagna, Bohol. Unpublished BSDC thesis, Leyte State University, Visca,

Baybay, Leyte.

Castino, E. (2002). Rice farmers’ information environment and their knowledge and participation in water supply projects in Alicia, Bohol. Unpublished

BSDC thesis, Leyte State University, Visca, Baybay, Leyte.

Escalada , M., Huan N.H., Quynh P.V., Chien, H.V., Thiet L.V., and Heong K.L. (2006) Environmental Soap Opera for Rural Vietnam: Audience Analysis Report.

IRRI, Los Baños, Philippines.

Diseases of Environmental and Zoonotic Origin Team, ECDC. Dengue worldwide: an overview of the current situation and the implications for Europe. Euro Surveill. 2007;12(25):pii=3222. Retrieved September 20, 2008 http://www.eurosurveillance.org/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=3222

Health Communication Insights, (2004). The role of health communication in global TB control goals. Lessons from Vietnam, Peru, and Beyond.

Hergenhahm & Olson, (1997). An introduction to theories of learning. (5th edition). New Jersey Prentice-Hall, Inc. pp.325-349.

Hukill, M. (1994). Communication education in Singapore: Responding to media needs. Media Asia. 21, 205.

Kotler, P. and Roberto, E. L. (1989). Social marketing: Strategies for changingpublic behavior. London: The Free Press.

Maibach, E. and Flora, J. (1993). Symbolic modeling and cognitive rehearsal: Usingvideo to promote AIDS prevention and self-efficacy. Communication

Research,2, 517-512

McAnany, E. G. (1980). Communications in the rural third world: The role ofinformation in development. New York: Praeger Publishers.

Pala, P. (1995). Information needs on abaca production among farmers in Inopacan,Leyte. Unpublished BSDC Thesis, Leyte State University, ViSCA, Baybay, Leyte.

Parallel Universes. (2007). Philippine Dengue in 2007. Retrieved September 20, 2008

from the worldwide web. http://www.paralleluniverses.com_philippine dengue in 2007.

61

Pesquera, M. (2001). Information needs on breast cancer prevention between urban and rural women in selected areas in Leyte. Unpublished undergraduate DevComthesis, Leyte State University , ViSCA, Baybay, Leyte.

Price, D. (2008). Dengue fever. Retrieved September 20, 2008 from . http://www.emedicine.com/

Prochaska, J.O. & Velicer, W.F. (1997). The transtheoretical model of health behavior change. American Journal of Health Promotion, 12 (1), 38-48.

Richardson, Don and Paisley, Lynnita. (1998). Communication for Development. TheFirst Rule of Connectivity. Advancing telecommunications for RuralDevelopment Through a Participatory Communication Approach. Rome: Foodand Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.

Robertson, Thomas S. (1971). Innovative behavior and communication. Holt, Rinehart and Winston, Inc.

Rogers, Everett M. (1973). Communication strategies for family planning. New York.MacMillan Publishing Co., Inc.

Rosenbaum, J. et.al., (1995). Community participation in dengue prevention and control:A survey of knowledge, attitude and practice in Trinidad and Tobago. The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Pp.111-117.

Schramm, W. (1964). Mass media and national development: The role of information in the developing countries. Stanford, California: Stanford University Press.

Schramm, W. (1973). Men, messages and media. A look at human communication.New York: Harper and Row Publishers.

Severin, W. and Tankard, J. Jr. (2001). Communication theories, Origins, methods and uses in the mass media (5th ed.). New York. Addison Wesley, Longman, International.

Soliveres, R. (2000). Information gaps on coconut-based farming system among coconut farmers in selected communities in Hilongos, Leyte. Unpublished BSDC thesis, Leyte State University, ViSCA, Baybay, Leyte.

Stiller, J. (1996). Challenging conventional approaches to health communication in Pakistan. The Journal of Development Communication. 7, 62.

The Family Health Guide (1986). Produced by the Philippine Ministry of Health,Commission on Population and Population Center Foundation. 2nd English

Edition

62

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2002). Making health communication programs work: A planner’s guide. Besthesa, M.D. National Institute of Health

U.P. College of Public Health Foundation. (1995). Summary and findings: FGD with Schistosomiasis team/evaluation on Schistosomiasis control program. University

of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

Virtudazo, R. (1997). Information needs on iodized salt among upland farmers in Leyte. Unpublished BSDC thesis, Leyte State University ViSCA, Baybay, Leyte.

World Health Organization. (2008). Retrieved September 20, 2008 from http://www.who.int/tdr/diseases/s.

63

APPENDICES

64

APPENDIX A DATA REQUIREMENT MATRIX

Objectives Research Questions Data to be GatheredMethod of Data

GatheringVariable Measurement

and Analysis1. Determine the

respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics;

What are socio demographic characteristics of the respondents?

Respondents’ age and educational attainment Personal interview

Section I of the interview schedule

Totals, frequencies, means, and percentages

2. Find out respondents’ media access and their exposure to information on dengue;

What communication media do they have access to?

How often do they use these media?

What media where they exposed regarding dengue prevention and control?

What are their knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue?

Respondents’ access to media, exposure to information on dengue prevention and control.

Respondents’ knowledge, attitude, and practices on dengue prevention and treatment.

a. Personal Interview/Section II, III IV, and V of the interview schedule

b. Focus Group Discussion

Totals, frequencies, means, and percentages

3. Determine their knowledge, attitude, and practice of dengue prevention and control measures;

Is there any relationship that exists between the respondents’ information needs, and background characteristics?

Relationships between variables

All data will be gathered using the interview schedule

Pearson product moment correlation

4. Find out the Is there a relationship Relationship between All data will be gathered Totals, frequencies,

65

relationship between respondents’ media access and information exposure and their KAP on dengue prevention and control

between rural and urban mothers’ media access and information exposure and KAP on dengue prevention and control?

Rural and urban mothers’ media access and information exposure and KAP on dengue prevention and control.

using the interview schedule

ranks, means, and percentages, Pearson product moment correlation

5. Find out the relationship between respondents’ socio-demographic characteristics and their knowledge, attitude and practices of dengue prevention and control, and;

Is there a relationship between rural and urban mothers’ SDCs and KAP on dengue prevention and control?

Relationship between Rural and urban mothers’ SDC, media access and information exposure and KAP on dengue prevention and control.

All data will be gathered using the interview schedule

Totals, frequencies, ranks, means, and percentages, Pearson product moment correlation

6. Compare respondents’ media access, exposure to information, and their knowledge, attitude and practice of dengue prevention and control measures.

Is there a difference between rural and urban mothers’ media access, information exposure, and KAP on dengue prevention and control?

Difference between rural and urban respondents’ media access, information exposure, and KAP on dengue prevention and control.

All data will be gathered using the interview schedule

Independent samples t-Test

66

67

APPENDIX BRespondent No._____

INTERVIEW SCHEDULE

Rural-Urban Comparison of Mothers’ Media Access and Information Needs on Dengue Prevention and Control

INTRODUCTION

Good Day!

            I am a graduating BS in Development Communication major in Development Journalism student. I am conducting my thesis on Rural-Urban Mothers’ Media Access and Information Needs on dengue prevention and control. Results of this survey will be used as basis for conceptualizing Dengue fever awareness and prevention campaigns. Please be frank and honest in answering the questions. Your answers will be kept confidential.

  Thank you very much.

 Name __________________________                                   Date ______________________

I. Socio-Demographic Characteristics

1. Age: ________2. Sex: ________3. Address: __________________4. Educational Attainment: _____________________

II. Information Exposure

5. Do you watch TV?____1) Yes____2) No5.1. If NO, why not?_____________________5.2. If yes, whose TV set do you watch?____________________________5.3. How often do you watch TV?___________________________5.4. In a day, how long do you watch TV?_______hours

6. Do you listen to the radio?____1)Yes____2)No6.1. If NO, why not?_____________________6.2. If yes, whose radio set do you listen to?_________________________

68

6.3. How often do you listen to the radio?_____________________6.4. In a day, how long do you listen to the radio?_______hours

7.Do you read printed materials? ____1)Yes____2)No7.1. If No, why not?_______________________________7.2. If yes, whose printed materials do you read?___________________7.3. How often do you read printed materials like newspaper,magazines,or poster?

______________________________7.4. In a day, how long do you read printed materials?________hour/s

8. Have you recently read, heard or watched any news or magazine article or radio/TV program about dengue prevention and control?

______ 1) Yes______ 2) No

9. If yes, from which communication source did you receive information on dengue prevention?

_______1) radio_______2) TV_______3) Video player_______4) newspaper_______5) magazine_______6) Other, please specify_________________

10. What information on dengue prevention and control did you receive?

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________11. Have you encountered a health worker/medical practitioner who shared some

information with you about dengue and dengue prevention?

       ______1. Yes       ______2. No

12. Have you approached a health worker/practitioner to ask more information about dengue and dengue prevention?

       ______1. Yes       ______2. No

a. If yes, why?____________________________________________13. How often do you consult the health worker/ medical practitioner?

       ______1.Daily                              ______3. Monthly       ______2.Weekly                          ______4. Other, pls specify___________________

69

III. Mother’s Knowledge on Dengue and its Prevention14. What is your understanding of dengue fever? [Check as many as applicable]

_____1) A severe flu-like illness caused by a virus._____2) Disease that may cause death but is curable and preventable._____3) It leads to Dengue Hemorrhagic fever and death._____4) A disease transmitted through mosquito bites._____5. Can be diagnosed by blood test._____6) Infection with one virus does not protect a person against infection with

another._____7) Dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever are caused by any of the dengue

family of viruses._____8) Dengue-carrying mosquitoes bite during the day_____9) Dengue viruses occur in most tropical areas of the world. _____10) Dengue carrying mosquitoes live among humans and breed in

discarded tires flower pots, old oil drums, and water storage containers close to human dwellings.

             _____11) Dengue fever is an acute febrile infection characterized by sudden onset of fever for 3-5 days.

15. Can dengue be prevented?

_____1. Yes_____2. No

16. If yes, what do you think must be done to prevent dengue? [Check as many as are applicable]

_____1) Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing._____2) When indoors, stay in air-conditioned or screened areas._____3) Use mosquito nets if sleeping areas are not screened or air-conditioned._____4) Dispose solid wastes properly._____5) Eliminate stagnant waters which serve as laying grounds for mosquitoes._____6) Cover containers to prevent access by egg-laying female mosquitoes.

17. Which of the following are signs and symptoms of Dengue?

             _____1) High fever                                          _____6) Nausea       _____2) Rashes                                                _____7) Vomiting       _____3) Severe headache                                _____8) Loss of appetite       _____4) Pain behind the eyes        _____5) Muscle and joint pains

18. How can dengue be treated? [Answer the following with true, false, or I don’t know]

_____1) Rest and drink plenty of fluids_____2) The dengue patient should be kept away from mosquitoes to protect

others.

70

_____3) In Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, some patients need transfusions to control bleeding.

_____4) Dengue hemorrhagic fever is treated by replacing lost fluids._____5) Go to the traditional healer.

 IV. Mother’s Attitude Towards Dengue Prevention and Control (Check the appropriate box.)

I will read to you some statements about dengue prevention and control. Please tell me whether you strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree or neutral (or don’t know) to each statement.

Statements Strongly Disagree

Disagree Don’t know/not

sure

Agree Strongly agree

19 Dengue prevention measures are easy to follow.

20 Dengue awareness and prevention give NO benefit to one’s health and wellness.

21 Dengue awareness and prevention help avoid expenses that may be incurred for treatment.

22 Dengue awareness on prevention and control helps avoid losing work/study days used for treatment.

23 I would never get dengue fever because I am healthy.

24 I don’t care if I get dengue.

25 There is nothing alarming about dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever.

26 It doesn’t matter if

71

my knowledge about dengue is limited.

    V. Mother’s Practices in Dengue and its Prevention

27.What do usually do to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes?

      _____1) Use insect repellants such as katol, lotions like “Off”, etc.      _____2) Sleep under mosquito net.      _____3) Nothing. I don’t care if  I get bitten by mosquitoes.

              _____4) Other, please specify ________________________________

28.   Which dengue prevention measures do you practice?

                 _____1) Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing.            _____2) When indoors, stay in air-conditioned or screened areas.

 _____3) Use mosquito nets if sleeping areas are not screened or air-conditioned.

            _____4) Dispose of solid wastes properly._____5) Eliminate stagnant waters which serve as laying grounds for mosquitoes._____6) Cover containers to prevent access by egg-laying female mosquitoes.

                 _____7) Other, please specify.__________________________ _____8) NONE. I don’t practice prevention measures

29.If none, why not?__________________________________________

29. Whenever you or one of your family gets intense fever, what do you usually do?

       _____1) Give him/her medication and rest.       _____2) Immediately consult a physician or seek medical attention.       _____3) Use and apply traditional treatment or medication.       _____4) Simply ignore the illness.       _____5) Other, please specify_________________________

30. Have you been sick of dengue fever? _____1) Yes

_____2) No31. Who diagnosed it as a dengue fever?

_____1) medical doctor _____2) parents

_____3) dorm mates/friends _____4) other (pls. specify)

_____________

72

32. If yes, how were you treated?_________________________________

Thank you….

APPENDIX C

Respondent no. __________

INTERVIEW SCHEDULERural-Urban Comparison of Mothers’ Media Access and Information Needs on

Dengue Prevention and Control

73

  Maayong adlaw!

            Ako usa ka graduating nga studyante sa BS in Development Communication major in Development Journalism. Nagadumala ako sa akong thesis sa Rural-Urban Mothers’ Media Access and Information Needs on dengue prevention and control. Ang resulta niining maong survey makatabang isip giya sa umaabot nga kampanya pagsumpo sa dengue. Hinaot nga matinud anon ang imong tubag sa mga pangutana. Ang imong tubag magpabiling kompidensyal.

 Daghang salamat

 Ngalan:__________________________                                   Petsa ____________

4. Socio-Demographic Characteristics

1.Edad: ________

2.Sex: ________

3Address: __________________

4.Naabot sa pagskwela: _____________________

II. Information Exposure

5. Mutan aw ba ka ug TV?____1)Oo____2) Dili

5.1. ng dili, ngano man?_________________5.2. Kung oo, kang kinsa man nga TV?_________

5.3 Kapila man ka mutan aw ug TV?_____________ 5.4 Sa usa ka adlaw pila ka ka oras mutan-aw ug TV?

_______ka oras

6. Maminaw ba ka ug radyo?____1)Oo____2)Dili

6.1Kung dili, ngano man?_____________________ 6.2.Kung oo, kang kinsa nga radio?________________

6.3 Kapila man ka maminaw ug radio?_______________ 6.4.Sa usa ka adlaw pila ka ka oras maminaw ug radyo?

_______ka oras

7.Mubasa ba ka ug mga babasahon?

74

____1)Oo____2)Dili

7.1.Kung dili, ngano man?___________7.2 Kung oo, kang kinsa nga babasahon?____________7.3. Kapila man ka mubasa ug mga babasahon?_______________7.4 Sa usa ka adlaw pila ka ka oras makabasa ug dyaryo, poster, o magazine?_______ka oras

8. Aduna ka bay nabasahan, nadunggan o natan awan nga balita o artikulo sa dyaryo, programa sa radio o TV kabahin sa dengue fever ug ang pagsumpo niini?

______ 1) Aduna______ 2) Wala

9. Ug aduna, unsa nga mga tinubdan sa impormasyon ang imo nakuhaan bahin sa pagpakgang sa dengue?

_______1) radio_______2) TV_______3) Video player_______4) newspaper_______5) magazine_______6) Other, please specify_________________

10. Unsa man nga mga impormasyon kabahin sa dengue ang imo nadawat?

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________11. Nakasinati naba ka nga naay health worker/duktor nga minghatag ug

impormasyon kanimo bahin sa dengue fever ug pagpakgang niini?

       ______1. Oo       ______2. Wala

12. Ming duol naba ka ug health worker/duktor aron pagpangutana ug impormasyon bahin sa dengue fever ug pagpakgang niini?

       ______1. Oo   ______2. WalaKung oo, ngano man?____________________________________________

13. Kanus a ka mukonsulta sa health worker/ duktor?       ______1.Kada adlaw                  ______3. Kada buwan       ______2.Kada semana                ______4. Uban, pls specify___________________

III. Mother’s Knowledge on Dengue and its Prevention

75

14. Unsa ang imong nasabtan bahin sa dengue? [Ang tubag mao ang tinuod, sayop, o wala ko kahibalo]

_____1) Mura ug trangkaso nga hinungdan sa virus._____2) Usa ka sakit nga pwede makamatay apan matambalan ug mapugngan._____3) Muresulta sa Dengue Hemorrhagic fever ug kamatayon._____4) Sakit nga makuha pinaagi sa paak sa lamok._____5. Masabtan kini pinaagi sa blood test._____6) Pwede pa gihapon magka Dengue bisan ug nagkaDengue na sa una._____7) Ang dengue ug dengue hemorrhagic fever gikan sa nagkalaing klase sa

virus._____8) Ang mga lamok nga nagdala ug dengue mupaak lang sa adlaw._____9) Ang dengue mahitabo lang sa mga tropical/init nga nasud susama sa

Pilipinas. _____10) Ang lamok nga nagdala ug Dengue nabuhi, nagpuyo ug managhan sa

gubang ligid, misitera, mga karaang baril, hugawng tubig duol sa pinuy anan sa mga tao.

             _____11) Ang Dengue fever usa ka sakit diin bation ug grabe nga hilanat ang pasyente sa tulo hangtod lima ka adlaw.

15. Sa imong tan aw, mapugngan ba ang dengue?

_____1. Oo_____2. Dili

16. Ug oo, unsa man ang dapat buhaton pagpugong sa dengue? [Checki ang takbo sa nasabtan]

_____1) Magdaob inig ka hapon pag iway sa lamok, o mugamit ug lotion nga pangkontra sa lamok.

_____2) Paggamit ug moskitiro inig matulog kung walay screen ang balay o walay aircon.

_____3) Ilabay ug tarong ang mga basura._____4) Wagtangon ang mga stagnant nga tubig ug limpyohan ang baradong

kanal nga posibleng puy an sa mga lamok._____5) Tabunan ang mga sudlanan sa tubig aron dili pangitlogan sa lamok.

17. Unsa ang mga sinyales ug simtomas sa dengue ang imo nahibal an? [Checki ang takbo sa nasabtan]

             _____1) Taas nga hilanat                                _____6) Pagkalipong       _____2) Mga katol katol sa lawas                   _____7) Pagsuka       _____3) Grabe nga labad sa ulo                      _____8) Walay gana mukaon       _____4) Sakit ang luyo sa mata        _____5) Sakit ang lawas ug mga joints

18. Unsaon pagtambal sa dengue? [Ang tubag mao ang sakto, sayop, wala ko kahibalo]

_____1) Pahuway ug inom ug daghang tubig

76

_____2) Ang pasyente ipalayo sa lamok aron dili makatakod sa uban._____3) Sa Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, usahay kailangan ug pag abono ug

dugo aron aron dili mamatay ang pasyente. _____4) Ang dengue hemorrhagic fever matambalan pinaagi sa paghulip sa tubig

sa lawas nga nawala._____5) Konsulta sa tambalan.

 IV. Mothers’ Attitude Towards Dengue Prevention [Checki ang kahon nga sibo sa tubag.]

Aduna akoy basahon kanimo nga mga pamahayag mahitungod sa dengue Palihug ug tubag kon Uyon Kaayo, Uyon, Wala ko kahibalo, Supak, o Supak Kaayo sa mga maong pamahayag.

Statements Supak Kaayo

Dili uyon

Wala ko kahibalo

Uyon Uyon Kaayo

19 Sayon ra buhaton ang mga paagi pagsumpo sa dengue.

20 Ang kaalam sa dengue ug pagpakgang niini wala naghatag ug kayo sa atong panlawas.

21 Ang kaalam sa dengue makatabang paglikay nga mahospital ug balayranan niini.

22 Ang kaalam sa dengue makatabang aron dili maabsent sa klase o sa trabaho.

23 Dili ko magka dengue tungod kay baskog ko.

24 Ok ra nga magkasakit kog dengue.

25 Walay kinahanglang ikabalaka sa dengue.

77

26 Ok ra nga kuwang ang kaalam mahitungod sa dengue ug ang pagpakgang niini.

    V. Mothers’ Practices on Dengue and its Prevention

27. Unsa man ang imo kasagarang gibuhat aron dili mapaakan ug lamok?

      _____1) Gamit ug katol, mga lotion pangkontra lamok o magdaob.      _____2) Matulog nga magmoskitiro.      _____3) Walay buhaton. Ok ra nga mapaakan sa lamok.

              _____4) Uban, ibutang ang tubag ________________________________

28.   Asa niini nga kasagaran nimong gibuhat pagpakgang sa dengue?

_____1) Magdaob inig ka hapon pag iway sa lamok, o mugamit uglotion nga pangkontra sa lamok.

_____2) Paggamit ug moskitiro inig matulog kung walay screen ang balay o walay aircon.

_____3). Ilabay ug tarong ang mga basura._____4) Wagtangon ang mga stagnant nga tubig ug limpyohan ang baradong

kanal nga posibleng puy an sa mga lamok._____5) Tabunan ang mga sudlanan sa tubig aron dili pangitlogan sa lamok

_____6) Uban, ibutang ang tubag__________________________  _____7) WALA…wala koy gibuhat aron pagpakgang sa dengue.

29.Kung wala, ngano man?__________________________________________

30.Pananglitan ang imo mga anak o kauban sa balay nay taas nga hilanat, unsa man ang imo kasagarang buhaton?

       _____1) Tagaan siya ug tambal ug igong pahuway.       _____2) Diretso dayon ug konsulta sa duktor o atensyong medikal.       _____3) Mugamit ug tradisyonal nga tambal sama sa herbal.       _____4) Pasagdan lang ang balati an.       _____5) Uban, ibutang ang tubag_________________________

31.Nagka Dengue fever na ba ka o ang imong mga anak? _____1) Oo

_____2) Wala

32.Kung oo, giunsa man kini pagtambal?_______________________________

Daghang salamat….

78

APPENDIX D

Focus Group Discussion Guide

1. Establish a quorum and rapport.

2. Introduce the moderator, colleagues and participants and provide “name tags” for

easy identification.

3. Inform the participants on the objectives and significance of the study.

79

Emphasize the purpose of the FGD.

Encourage everybody to participate in the discussion.

Stress that their answers are all correct.

4. Discussion proper.

Theme 1. Information exposure through radio

1. Do you have radio in your house? What station do you mostly tune in? What type

of programs does it broadcast? How often do you listen? Have you heard

information on dengue awareness, prevention, and control? How many times have

you heard?

Theme 2. Information exposure through television

1. Do you have television in your house? How often do you watch? What television

programs do you usually watch? What do these programs contain? Have you

seen programs on dengue awareness, prevention, and control? How many times

have you seen?

Theme 3. Information exposure through printed materials

1. Do you have printed materials in your house? What are these printed materials?

Who owns these materials? What do they contain? Have you read information

on dengue awareness, prevention, and control? How many times have you read?

Theme 4. Contact with health workers and medical practitioners

Have you encountered a health worker/medical practitioner who shared some

information with you about health and diseases? Have you approached a health

worker/practitioner to ask more information about your health and diseases? Was

dengue awareness, prevention, and control discussed in your encounter?

80

Theme 5. Knowledge on Dengue Prevention and Control

1. What is dengue fever? What are its complications?

2. Where can we get dengue?

3. What are the signs and symptoms of dengue?

4. What are the effects of dengue that you know of?

5. Can dengue be prevented?

6. What do you think will be done to prevent and control dengue?

7. How can dengue be treated?

8. Who do you think is at risk of dengue?

9. What will you do if you if someone in your family get dengue? Or shows signs of

dengue?

Theme 6. Attitude towards Dengue

1. What can you say about the methods for preventing and controlling dengue?

Theme 7. Practices on Dengue Prevention and Control

1. Who among you here have family members who were infected with dengue?

What did you do to control it?

2. Has there been any dengue patient in your community? When?

3. Do you think dengue can strike in your home anytime? What are you going to do

to prevent dengue attack?

Theme 8. Need for Information on Dengue

1. Do you think there is a need to improve your community’s knowledge on dengue?

What specific information can we teach your community?

2. In what way should we teach them?

81

APPENDIX E

Department of Development CommunicationVisayas State University

Visca, Baybay, Leyte

_________________________________________________________________

Dear Sir/Madam:

I am a Senior BS Development Communication student major in Development

Journalism.

82

Currently, I am working on a thesis entitled “Rural-Urban Comparison of

Mothers’ Media Access and Information Needs on Dengue Prevention and

Control”. This study aims to determine the information needs, knowledge, attitude, and

practices of rural and urban mothers regarding dengue fever and its prevention and

control.

In this regard, I am humbly asking your permission to allow me to conduct this

study among mothers in your area of jurisdiction and to gather secondary data from your

office.

Results of this study would be important in designing and developing effective

communication strategies in disseminating information on Dengue Prevention and

Control.

I am anticipating for your favorable response. Thank you very much.

Respectfully yours,

Buen Josef C. Andrade Student Researcher Noted:

Dr. Monina M. EscaladaProfessor of Development CommunicationAnd Thesis Adviser

83

84