IMPACT OF HOME RANGE FACTORS ON PREVENTION OF GUAINEA WORM DISEASE IN HUMANS AND ANIMALS IN LAFON AND TONJ COUNTIES, EAST SOUTH SUDAN.  A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Makoy Samuel Yibi Logora; Denis Mubiru; kateregga salongo; Mohammed Sendagi

doi:10.70659/gjhib.v2i1.11

Authors

Makoy Samuel Yibi Logora Team University, Kampala.
Dr. Denis Mubiru Team University, Kampala.
kateregga salongo Team University, Kampala.
Dr. Sendagi Mohammed Team University, Kampala.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70659/gjhib.v2i1.11

Keywords:

Guinea worm disease, Disease prevention, Home range factors, Lafon County, East South Sudan

Abstract

Background.

Several factors contribute to the prevalence of GWD in Lafon and Tonj East. Key among these is the high rates of rural-urban migration, which bring diverse populations together and increase the risk of GWD transmission. This study determined the impact of home range factors on the prevention of Guainea worm disease in humans and animals in Lafon and Tonj counties, East South Sudan.

Methodology.

A descriptive study design was employed, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data were collected through surveys and interviews with 150 participants, including healthcare providers and residents of Lafan and Tonji Counties. Statistical analyses were conducted using regression models and correlation matrices to evaluate the relationship between the GWD prevention strategies.

Results.

117 (78%) were male participants, and the majority of participants fall within the 21-30 age group of 55(37%). A model with an R-value of 0.772 was established, indicating a strong relationship between the predictors and the ease of access to Home rang services. The R Square value was 0.878, suggesting that approximately 69.6% of the variance in accessibility to home range services can be explained by the included variables. Significant positive correlations were observed between awareness of services and perceived availability (0.64) and between the ability to afford chemical formulas and perceived availability (0.67).

Conclusion.

Home range programs significantly reduce GWD prevalence rates in Lafan and Tonji counties. The data showed that the community is highly aware of and understands home range transmission and preventive measures.

Recommendation.

Government and non-governmental organizations should support communities in implementing GWD policies and practices aimed at reducing the risk of infections and transmission among people.

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