Knowledge and Attitude of Congolese Women of Childbearing Age Regarding the Risks and Consequences of Self-Medication: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Regulations on the sell and use of medicines in the Democratic Republic of Congo are at a rudimentary level. Self-medication is frequently used and it practice in all country, and in all social categories. It is the first therapeutic remedy used by the Congolese, before going to a hospital institution, if and only if the disease persists or worsens. The concern lies in the practice of self-medication among women of childbearing age. Hence the objective of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of Congolese women of childbearing age regarding the risks and consequences of self-medication. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study, with an analytical aim, carried out among women of childbearing age, in Kinshasa town, during the period from March 15 to November 30, 2022. The selection of participants was made in the 4 districts of the Town, by taking women who met our criteria of selection. Study parameters included sociodemographics, prevalence, and determinants of self-medication. Results: In total, 402 subjects have been enroled (mean age 27.3 ±8.4), women in the age group of 25-34 years (53.5%), singles (56.0%), with a high level of education (76.4%) and having a profession (59.2%). The majority of women knew the person authorized to prescribe the medications (78.6%), knew of the existence of self-medication (77.4%), and even practiced it (76.4%); but the majority (78.1%) were unaware of the dangers resulting from the practice of self-medication. The majority of them (64.4%) are victims of complications from self-medication. Civil status and religion remain therisk factors independently associated withself-medication. Conclusion: The Congolese woman of childbearing age, single and with a high level of education, knows the role of the Doctor in medical prescription, knows the existence and practice of self-medication, while ignoring the dangers that can result from it, despite She herself is a victim of complications from self-medication. This practice had as risk factors, marital status and religion.