Acceptability of religious-based organisations for injury data collection in Ghana: a novel approach to address...

Robust, unbiased injury data are essential for guiding effective prevention strategies, but Ghana lacks this. Religious-based organisations (RBOs) have played a significant role in addressing health needs; however, they have not been explored as a platform for injury data collection. This study explores the acceptability of using RBOs for such a purpose.

A survey was conducted among RBOs in the Kumasi Metropolitan area, Ghana. Respondents over 18 years, who had participated in an injury survey, took part in this sub-study on acceptability. The theoretical framework of acceptability was used to examine the acceptance of injury data collection in RBOs. Analysis was conducted descriptively, and ANOVA/t-test was used to assess the differences in acceptability by demographics.

A total of 304 members and 29 leaders of RBOs participated in the study. The average age of members was 41.25 years and leaders 48.80 years. A higher percentage of members were women, and all leaders were men. RBO members and leaders rated the theoretical framework of acceptability questions positively. The estimated standardised mean acceptability score (mean=75.60) was high. Acceptability did not differ between members and leaders. There was no significant difference in the mean acceptability score by sex or type of RBO. Leaders and members were concerned about interference with data collection in RBOs, particularly regarding their priorities.

This study demonstrates an acceptance of using RBOs as a platform for injury data collection. The high acceptance makes this a viable alternative for routine injury data collection, which could help address the injury data gaps. A qualitative inquiry is needed to provide an in-depth understanding of acceptance.