Insecticide-treated bed nets (ITN) ownership and utilization patterns among caregivers with children under five years: A community-based cross-sectional study in Battor, North Tongu District, Ghana

Insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) are essential for malaria prevention, significantly reducing the incidence of malaria, particularly among children under five. However, the utilization of ITNs varies widely due to several factors. This study aimed to assess ITN ownership and utilization patterns among caregivers of children under five years old. A cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing a multi-stage sampling to collect quantitative data from 211 caregivers. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics via Stata 17. Of the total respondents (211), 77 (36.5%) own ITNs, while 134 (63.5%) do not own ITNs. Chi-square analysis revealed significant associations between ITN knowledge and factors such as sex (p = 0.025), educational level (p = 0.043), marital status (p < 0.001), religion (p = 0.020), challenges faced in using ITNs (p = 0.012), affordability (p = 0.001), and cultural beliefs (p = 0.003). Binary regression analysis indicated that caregivers facing challenges in using ITNs were 50% less likely to utilize them compared to those without such challenges (aOR = 0.50, 95% CI = 0.26-0.96, p = 0.040). Additionally, caregivers who found ITNs inconvenient or hot were 30% less likely to use them compared to those who viewed them as costly (aOR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.43-1.33). To enhance ITN utilization, the Ghana Health Service should tailor interventions to address practical barriers and improve educational outreach, bridging the gap between knowledge and usage.