Assessing information sources and preventive behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic: a cross-sectional study in Antigua and Barbuda

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate factors associated with the adoption of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) preventive health behaviors among adults in Antigua and Barbuda. Methods: A nationally representative cross-sectional survey was conducted from September 22 to November 29, 2021. Data were collected via computer-assisted telephone interviewing to (1) assess the COVID-19 information sources utilized and the preventive behaviors adopted by study participants and (2) assess the impact of COVID-19 on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health. The survey asked about demographic factors, the use of information sources regarding COVID-19, COVID-19 prevention behaviors, NCD diagnoses, and mental health. Findings for objective 1 are presented. A descriptive analysis for demographic variables and COVID-19 information sources utilized by study participants was performed. A multivariable logistic regression was conducted to investigate factors associated with the adoption of preventive behaviors. Results: Data from 2 001 telephone interviews were used in the analysis. Most participants were female (53.3%), never married (59.2%), and reported being educated beyond secondary school level (75.4%). The main media outlets accessed for COVID-19 prevention information were social networks, television, and radio, respectively. Participants reported that the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment was viewed as the most trusted information source. We found no association with marital status, education level, main source of COVID-19 information, most trusted source that influenced behavior change, and the practicing of social distancing by persons who reported adhering to COVID-19 prevention strategies always or sometimes. Conclusion: Our characterization of information sources utilized and COVID-19 preventive behaviors provides baseline information for the development of future public health prevention and promotional efforts.