A cross-sectional study on self-medication practices among the rural population of Meghalaya
Journal Title: International Journal of Medical Science and Public Health - Year 2016, Vol 5, Issue 6
Abstract
Background: Self-medication can be described as a double-edged sword for its users, because it has both beneficial and harmful effects. The practice of self-medication is influenced by various factors. Meghalaya being an antimalarial drug resistant region is very much vulnerable to harms of self-medication. Objective: Therefore, this study was initiated to determine the prevalence of self-medication for allopathic drugs among the rural population and to find out the association between certain socio-demographic characteristics and self-medication . Materials and Methods: The study was a community-based, cross-sectional study carried out at Sohiong area of Mawphlang Block, East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya, India. A total of 400 respondents of 18 years of age or more were randomly selected for the study. Result: Prevalence of self-medication was found to be 55% for allopathic drugs. Higher percentages of self-medication practices were seen among male gender (54.7%), people educated at least up to high school (64%), and in the younger age group (55%). Mild illness (30%) was the most common reason for self-medication followed by unwillingness to go to doctors (27%). Cough and common cold (28.3%) were found to be the most common symptoms for self-medication. Most common source of information for self-medication was family members and friends (38.7%). Conclusion: Higher percentages of self-medication practices were seen among the males, higher educational and socio - economic status, and younger age group. Health education to people regarding responsible self-medication is necessary to prevent misuse and adverse effect of self-medication.
Authors and Affiliations
Apurba Marak, Madhur Borah, Himashree Bhattacharyya, Kaushik Talukdar
Keywords
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- EP ID EP107184
- DOI 10.5455/ijmsph.2016.17072015160
- Views 84
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