Project – The level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Analgesic abuse is a growing concern worldwide, and it is no different among female students of Madonna University. A study by Oshikoya et al. (2018) revealed that self-medication, particularly with analgesics, is prevalent among university students in Nigeria. The study found that the majority of the students were not aware of the potential adverse effects of these drugs, which could lead to misuse and abuse.

The level of knowledge about the effects of analgesic abuse among these students is quite low. According to a survey conducted by Afolabi (2013), many students were unaware of the potential harm that could result from the misuse of analgesics. This lack of knowledge could be attributed to the lack of comprehensive drug education programs in the university. The study suggested that there is a need for more educational interventions to increase awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse.

The attitude towards analgesic abuse among these students is also concerning. A study by Eze et al. (2016) found that many students had a nonchalant attitude towards the misuse of analgesics. The study suggested that this attitude could be due to the perceived benefits of these drugs, such as their ability to relieve pain quickly. This perception could lead to a higher likelihood of misuse and abuse.

However, it is important to note that not all students have this attitude. A study by Okpala et al. (2017) found that some students were aware of the dangers of analgesic abuse and were cautious about their use. This study suggested that these students could play a crucial role in spreading awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse among their peers.

The level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students is a cause for concern. There is a need for more educational interventions to increase awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse. Future research should focus on developing effective strategies to address this issue.

• Statement of the Problem

Hello! Analgesic abuse is a growing concern worldwide, and it is no different among female students of Madonna University. A study by Oshikoya et al. (2018) revealed that self-medication, particularly with analgesics, is prevalent among university students in Nigeria. The study found that the majority of the students were not aware of the potential adverse effects of these drugs, which could lead to misuse and abuse.

The level of knowledge about the effects of analgesic abuse among these students is quite low. According to a survey conducted by Afolabi (2013), many students were unaware of the potential harm that could result from the misuse of analgesics. This lack of knowledge could be attributed to the lack of comprehensive drug education programs in the university. The study suggested that there is a need for more educational interventions to increase awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse.

The attitude towards analgesic abuse among these students is also concerning. A study by Eze et al. (2016) found that many students had a nonchalant attitude towards the misuse of analgesics. The study suggested that this attitude could be due to the perceived benefits of these drugs, such as their ability to relieve pain quickly. This perception could lead to a higher likelihood of misuse and abuse.

However, it is important to note that not all students have this attitude. A study by Okpala et al. (2017) found that some students were aware of the dangers of analgesic abuse and were cautious about their use. This study suggested that these students could play a crucial role in spreading awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse among their peers.

In conclusion, the level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students is a cause for concern. There is a need for more educational interventions to increase awareness about the dangers of analgesic abuse. Future research should focus on developing effective strategies to address this issue.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study of the study is to examine the level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students.

1. To assess the level of knowledge among Madonna University female students about the effects of analgesic abuse.
2. To evaluate the attitudes of Madonna University female students towards analgesic abuse and its consequences.
3. To identify the prevalence of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students.
4. To determine the sources of information about analgesic abuse for Madonna University female students.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the level of knowledge among Madonna University female students about the effects of analgesic abuse?
2. How do Madonna University female students perceive analgesic abuse and its consequences?
3. What is the prevalence of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students?
4. What are the primary sources of information about analgesic abuse for Madonna University female students?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: The level of knowledge among Madonna University female students will not affect the analgesic abuse.

H1: The level of knowledge among Madonna University female students will affect the analgesic abuse.

• Significance of the Study

The significance of this study lies in its potential to shed light on the level of knowledge and attitudes towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students. Analgesic abuse is a global health concern that has been linked to various health complications, including kidney damage, liver failure, and addiction. Despite the severity of these potential consequences, awareness and understanding of these risks among university students, particularly females, remain largely unexplored.

This study is significant as it aims to fill this gap in knowledge. By assessing the level of understanding about the effects of analgesic abuse among female students at Madonna University, the study can provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of current educational efforts and awareness campaigns. It can also identify areas where further education and intervention may be necessary to prevent analgesic abuse and its associated health risks.

Furthermore, by evaluating the attitudes of these students towards analgesic abuse and its consequences, the study can provide a deeper understanding of the factors that may influence their behaviors and decisions regarding analgesic use. This information can be instrumental in developing targeted interventions and strategies to discourage analgesic abuse.

The study also seeks to identify the prevalence of analgesic abuse among these students. This information is crucial in gauging the extent of the problem within this specific population and can guide policy makers and health professionals in allocating resources and designing prevention and treatment programs.

Moreover, determining the sources of information about analgesic abuse for these students is another significant aspect of this study. Understanding where students get their information can help in the development of effective communication strategies to disseminate accurate and relevant information about analgesic abuse.

In conclusion, this study holds significant potential in contributing to the body of knowledge on analgesic abuse among university students. The findings could inform policy, guide interventions, and ultimately, help protect the health and well-being of female students at Madonna University.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines the level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students.

1.8   Operational Definition of Terms

1. Level of Knowledge: This refers to the depth or extent of understanding, awareness, or familiarity gained about a particular subject or issue through experience or education.
2. Attitude: This refers to a person’s perspective, feelings, or mindset towards an event, object, or concept. It is a psychological construct that represents an individual’s degree of like or dislike for something.
3. Effects: In this context, effects refer to the outcomes, consequences, or impacts that result from a particular action or event.
4. Analgesic Abuse: This refers to the misuse or overuse of pain-relieving drugs, often to achieve a high or other non-medical effects. It can lead to addiction, health problems, and other negative consequences.
5. Madonna University: This is a private Catholic university located in Nigeria. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in fields such as medicine, law, engineering, and social sciences.
6. Female Students: This term refers to individuals who identify as women and are enrolled in an educational institution for study. In this context, it refers specifically to those studying at Madonna University.

Project – The level of knowledge and attitude towards the effects of analgesic abuse among Madonna University female students