Predicting the Adoption of COVID-19 Public Health Preventive Measures in Ethiopia: Application of Health Belief Model
Abstract:
In
the face of coronavirus disease pandemic, adherence to public health measures largely
influences their effectiveness in containing the spread. Four specific objectives
guided this study: (i) Assess whether individuals are adhering to the COVID-19 preventive
measures promoted by Ethiopian government; (ii) Examine the heterogeneity in adoption
of preventive measures in Ethiopia; (iii) Identify the factors affecting adherence
to preventive measures-based health belief model; and (iv) Examine the moderating
effects of socio-economic factors on the relationship between adherence to preventive
measures and HBM factors. The study relied on a nationally representative cross-sectional
survey commissioned by the World Health Organization in 2021 for Ethiopia. Data
was collected from 895 individuals aged 18 years of age or older. Analysis applied
several methods including the Multiple Correspondence Analysis, Univariate analysis,
hierarchical cluster analysis, cluster analysis and multiple regression analysis.
Using face masks and washing hands were the most frequently practiced preventive
measures. The regression analysis indicated that perceived severity, perceived barriers,
and cues to action showed a significant association with adherence at p >0.05.
Furthermore, socio-economic factors have a moderating role on adherence to preventive
measures and HBM factors. Effective promotion and adoption of preventive measures
require addressing individuals' perceptions of severity and benefits while minimizing
barriers and providing clear cues to action. Additionally, specific preventive measures
that require ongoing effort and habit development may face challenges in adoption.
Tailoring interventions can help overcome these challenges and encourage the widespread
adoption of preventive measures to curtail the spread.
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