Health Beliefs and Practices of Sitio Canlibot Residents: Basis for Community Health Interventions

Abstract. This study examined the health beliefs and practices of adult residents (N = 250) of Sitio Canlibot, Barangay Bagumbayan, Teresa, Rizal, Philippines, utilizing the Health Belief Model (HBM) as a theoretical framework to inform the development of a community-based health intervention program. A quantitative descriptive-correlational research design was employed, with data collected through a structured and validated survey instrument measuring the six HBM constructs: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action. Findings revealed that respondents generally demonstrated high levels of perceived benefits (M = 3.52) and self-efficacy (M = 3.50), alongside moderate perceived susceptibility (M = 3.20) and perceived barriers (M = 3.11). Statistical analyses indicated no significant differences in health beliefs across most demographic variables, suggesting a homogenizing effect of socioeconomic conditions. However, significant differences were observed in perceived barriers by sex and perceived susceptibility by educational attainment. Notably, a substantial proportion of participants were unemployed (66.4%) and belonged to low-income households (80.4%), highlighting financial constraints as a dominant barrier to healthcare access and utilization. The study concludes that structural socioeconomic factors, particularly poverty, exert a stronger influence on health behaviors than cognitive health beliefs alone. These findings underscore the need for intervention programs that go beyond health education and instead prioritize accessibility, affordability, and community-based support systems. The proposed intervention framework emphasizes cost-reduction strategies, culturally responsive communication, and healthcare provider-led initiatives to enhance health outcomes in underserved communities. Keywords: Health Belief Model, health behavior, community health, socioeconomic barriers, public health intervention