Comparative Relationships Between Government Policies and Community-Based Health Education Programs on Communicable Diseases among Residents in Katsina Metropolis, Katsina State, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64348/zije.2026271Keywords:
Government Policies, Community -Based Health Education Programs & Communicable DiseasesAbstract
This paper is investigated to assess of the role of government policies in supporting community-based health education programs for communicable diseases in Katsina Metropolis. The paper used primary and secondary data based on the research objectives and hypothesis. Descriptive statistical techniques were used in the presentation, analysis and discussions of data. The researcher sampled 120 respondents from the study area. The findings reveal that well-coordinated vaccination campaigns significantly reduce disease incidence, while sanitation and hygiene initiatives effectively control waterborne diseases. Quarantine measures, although challenging, are effective when accompanied by clear communication and community trust. The study highlights the critical role of community engagement in enhancing policy acceptance and adherence, supported by socioeconomic benefits, including reduced healthcare costs and improved workforce productivity. The findings align with existing theories on the social determinants of health and the importance of sustainable health systems. Based on the above conclusion, the research came up with the following recommendations: Government funding should move away from short-term, project-based funding towards long-term, predictable financing for community-based health education initiatives to ensure sustainability. Community Health Worker (CHW) Networks should formally integrate CHWs into the national health system by providing them with regular training, remuneration, and protective gear. There is should be an improve surveillance systems to enable real-time tracking of disease outbreaks, using this data to directly inform the focus of community education, such as in vaccination campaigns. Governments policy should shift from merely having policies on paper to creating a robust, community-owned system that effectively controls communicable diseases in the study area.
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