Analysis Of Socio-Economic Burden of Onchocerciasis in Amur Community in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study was to analyses the socioeconomic burden of onchocerciasis in Amur community in Imo State, Nigeria. Mixed methods research was conducted using questionnaire and in-depth interview data collection instruments. The data were analyzed using descriptive (frequency tables) and inferential (logistic regression analysis) statistics. Ethical principles of informed and voluntary consent, confidentiality, non-injury, and beneficence were fully observed throughout the data collection process. It was found that majority of the people avoid onchocerciasis infected persons because they feel that the disease may be infectious. Peer isolation, poverty, poor school attendance and reduced productivity were major socio- economic burdens faced by onchocerciasis infected persons in Amur community. It was also found that awareness of socioeconomic consequences of onchocerciasis such as medical spending, man hour loss, unemployment, academic performance, poverty and social esteem affect the decision of infected persons to participate in the disease preventive and control programmed. In conclusion, awareness of socioeconomic consequences of the diseases on individuals and the community is important to motivate people to participate in the disease preventive and control programmed in Amur community.