HAUSA WOMEN’S HEALTH PATTERN AND BARRIERS TO HEALTH CARE UTILIZATION IN SABO AREA OF ABEOKUTA

Abstract

ABSTRACT Maternal mortality remains unacceptably high in Nigeria with existing maternal health interventions, therefore this study often focussed generalized on health care and failed to consider the unique cultural and socio-economic barriers that influence Hausa women's healthcare decisions. This research work adopted a descriptive research design, which involves the collection of data from 150 respondents, using a well-structured and standardized questionnaire, A multi-stage sampling method was used to select the respondents. The data collected was analyzed using a descriptive statistical tool and Pearson Product Moment Correlation to test the hypotheses stated in the research. The results of the study indicated that in terms of age distribution, majority 33 (22%) were between 31-35years' on marital status 97 (64.7%) were married, majority 54 (36%) have no formal education. Findings indicated a selective pattern of health among the respondents with sleep problems (x̄= 2.64) ranked 1st, Somatic (x̄=2.41) ranked 2nd and depressed mood (x̄=2.25) ranked 3rd respectively. Findings also assessed the barriers to healthcare utilization, respondents identified a wide range of challenges, categorized into individual/family related barriers (x̄=2.03), health care sector- related barriers (x̄=1.94) and personal related barriers (x̄=1.91). In conclusion, the study established that age, health patterns and perceived barriers to health utilization are interrelated. Overall, the study highlights the critical need to address not just structural deficiencies but also socio-cultural and personal factors to improve healthcare access and health outcomes of the respondents. Therefore, targeted interventions should be designed for vulnerable subgroups, such as older adults and those with low educational attainment, focusing on preventive care, mental health support and guidance on navigating healthcare services effectively.

Word Count: 323 words Keywords: Hausa women, health patterns, barriers, healthcare, utilization, access to care, Sabo, Abeokuta.