The Influence of Socio-Economic Status on Malaria Treatment in Municipal Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria: A Public Opinion Survey

This study explores socio-economic status and perceived treatment of malaria within the Municipal Local Government Area of Kano State. Its objectives are to: examine public opinion regarding how socio-economic status influences malaria treatment in the Municipal Local Government Area; explore different treatment options for malaria infection; and investigate the factors that affect the choice of effective malaria treatments in the area. The study uses a descriptive survey design with a multistage systematic random sampling method to select 400 participants, based on the Taro Yamane formula and a total population of 969. Questionnaires were given to adult males and females who have used any malaria treatment and reside within Kano Municipal. The data collected were analyzed using SPSS version 23 with descriptive statistics such as frequencies andpercentages, presented in tables. Results indicate that socio-economic factors like income, education, and residence (ecology) significantly influence the types of malaria treatment used. Treatment options include orthodox medication, especially Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT), traditional medicines, and self-medication, reflecting medical pluralism. Factorssuch as income level and medication cost also influence treatment choices. The study concludes that socio-economic aspects such as income, occupation, proximity or access to healthcare, and cultural beliefs or knowledge about the nature, causes, and understanding of malaria affect treatment decisions. There are three main malaria treatment options: traditional, orthodox, and dual methods. Ultimately, cultural beliefs, medication costs, income levels, referrals, and knowledge are key factors shaping treatment choices for malaria.