Human behavior, health education and schistosomiasis control: a review

This paper examines the role of human behavior in schistosomiasis transmission and control in relation to health education. The literature is reviewed to identify relevant behaviors and to examine progress and constraints in health education, using the primary health care approach. The behavior model by Dunn and the PRECEDE health education model by Green and coworkers are adapted for health education in schistosomiasis control. Because of its focus on the role of individual and community vs outside factors, deliberate vs non-deliberate behavior and health-enhancing and health-maintaining vs health-lowering behavior, Dunn's model can evaluate social, economic, cultural and political factors in schistosomiasis transmission and control that must be considered in health education. The PRECEDE model represents a suitable diagnostic tool for health education planning, intervention and evaluation.