Prevalence and factors associated with self-medication among students at Bishop Sisto Mazoldi secondary school, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background:

When practiced responsibly, self-medication offers significant advantages like symptom relief and reduced costs. Conversely, inappropriate Self-medication imposes significant public health concerns and complications. This study determined the factors associated with self-medication among students at Bishop Sisto Mazoldi Secondary School, Wakiso District.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing quantitative methods of data collection. A sample of 60 respondents was obtained through a simple random sampling technique, and a questionnaire method was used to collect data on socio-demographic factors, prevalence, and common sources of medicines. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and presented in tables, charts, figures, and graphs.

Results:

 Findings show that the majority of respondents (50.0%) were aged between 10 and 14 years, with an equal representation of male and female students (50.0%). Parental education levels were predominantly secondary (41.7%), and most students (58.3%) were in lower secondary (O-level). The prevalence of self-medication among students was high, with 78.3% of respondents reporting that they self-medicated. The majority (40.4%) self-medicated once, and most (29.8%) did so for four days. A significant proportion (78.7%) could recall the name of the drug, and 74.5% read instructions before use. Despite this, 14.9% reported experiencing adverse drug reactions. On the source of medication, students commonly sourced medications from pharmacies (66.7%), and half of them (50.0%) were influenced by the availability of drugs. Notably, 78.3% of respondents obtained medication without a doctor's prescription.

Conclusion:

The high rate of self-medication among students, often termed as irresponsible use, could impart long-term consequences on their health and indirect burdens to caregivers.

Recommendation:

There should be collaborative efforts from the Ministry of Health, schools, parents, and healthcare workers to regulate access, educate students, and provide proper healthcare guidance regarding self-medication practices.