Local knowledge and practices towards malaria in an irrigated farming community in Ghana

BACKGROUND: Although malaria is endemic across Ghana, the risk is generally elevated for residents living in and around stagnant water bodies such as dams and irrigated farming projects. What knowledge do these at-risk populations have about the aetiology and symptoms of malaria? What are their coping strategies? And what interventions are needed to help improve the health outcomes of people living in high-risk malaria communities? METHODS: This study addressed these research questions with primary data, comprising both qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys, collected in Asutsuare—a rural irrigated farming community located in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. RESULTS: Results from the fieldwork showed that awareness of malaria as a major health concern in the community was universal. Respondents also displayed a high knowledge of some common clinical symptoms of malaria. Yet, only 3% out of the total survey respondents of 337 indicated they immediately visit a health facility for treatment whenever they suspected malaria. The overwhelming majority (about 97%) indicated they only visit a healthcare facility for treatment if they felt the suspected malaria illness was severe and/or other treatment options had failed. CONCLUSION: Malaria testing training for drug dispensing personnel as well as the provision of malaria testing kits in drug dispensing stores are necessary to facilitate early malaria screening and timely diagnosis particularly in rural endemic areas.