Media Usage, Family Dynamics, Socio-Economic Factors and Geospatial Analysis of Mosquito Net Usage in Ghana: Insights...

Background: Malaria prevention through mosquito net usage remains a critical public health challenge in Ghana, despite widespread distribution efforts. Purpose: This study examines how media exposure, family structures, and socio-economic conditions influence mosquito net utilization patterns across Ghana's diverse regions. Reseaech design and study sample: Drawing from the 2022 Demographic and Health Survey data of 9353 women aged 15-49, this research employs both logistic regression analysis and innovative geospatial techniques to uncover usage determinants. Analysis and results: Findings reveal a substantial gap between net ownership (80.6%) and actual usage (56.4%), with significant variations across demographic groups. The study identifies that participants with health cards had 51% higher odds of using nets (AOR = 1.51), while those from rural areas showed higher utilization rates compared to urban residents. Geospatial analysis exposed a concerning mismatch between healthcare facility distribution and malaria burden, particularly in Northern and Upper West regions, potentially hampering access to nets and educational resources. Family composition emerged as a key factor, with participants living with partners and those having children demonstrating significantly higher usage rates. Interestingly, while traditional media consumption (radio) positively correlated with net usage, internet use was associated with decreased utilization. The research also found that despite lower socioeconomic status households showing higher usage rates, education levels positively influenced utilization across all groups. Conclusions: These findings contribute to understanding the complex interplay between social determinants and healthcare infrastructure in shaping preventive health behaviors, suggesting the need for targeted interventions that consider both geographical accessibility and socio-cultural contexts in malaria prevention strategies.