Joyce Rumun | Benue State University, Makurdi - Nigeria (original) (raw)
Papers by Joyce Rumun
The Nigerian Journal of Sociology and Anthropology
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility ... more Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility among women. While there are several clinic-based studies on the biological context of fibroid, very few had examined its socio-cultural context in a community study in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, examined health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid in Tiv communities in Benue State, Nigeria. The study participants were selected from 4 Tiv speaking local government areas (Gboko, Makurdi, Ukum and Vandeikya) in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential explanatory mixed method of data collection was used. Fibroid occurrence is common among women in age categories 30-39 (51%). All the respondents living fibroid sought treatment, however, 60% of the respondents prefer orthodox medical treatment while the remaining 40% prefer the traditional healing process. Income, proximity to healthcare facility, influence of relatives, friends, and health professionals ...
The Nigerian Journal of Sociology and Anthropology
In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications ... more In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidities among women of reproductive age especially in rural communities. This paper examined how women in rural Benue State prepare for births especially as it relates to utilization of maternal healthcare services to avoid potential pregnancy and childbirth related complications. It specifically investigated the factors that hinder rural women from birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR). The study which was anchored on Rational Choice Theory utilized intra method triangulation to elicit qualitative data from women of reproductive age (15-49), Woman leaders and community health personnel from 6 rural communities drawn from 3 local government areas in Benue State. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-depth Interviews (IDIs) were the main instruments used for data collection in order to capture the nuances involved. Findings ...
Global Journal of Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, 2015
Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public heal... more Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public health importance. About 90% of all malaria deaths in the world today occur in Africa. An estimated one million people in Africa die from malaria each year and most of these are children under five years old The factors determining the health behaviours may be seen in various contexts: physical, socioeconomic , cultural and political. Therefore, the utilization of a health care system, public or private, formal or non-formal, may depend on socio-demographic factors, social structures, level of education, cultural beliefs and practices, gender discrimination, status of women, economic and political systems, environmental conditions, and the disease pattern and health care system itself. Malaria remains a major Public Health problem in Nigeria and causes death and illness in children and adults, especially pregnant women. The objective of this review is to look at the following areas: malaria epidemiology; the burden of malaria on Nigerian rural dwellers; perception and treatment seeking behaviour of rural dwellers; and treatment sources of the rural dwellers.
FUWUKARI INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT, 2019
Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths located in the uterus of women, creating severe complicatio... more Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths located in the uterus of women, creating severe complications such as infertility and death. Most studies on fibroid in Nigeria are hospitalbased. Hence, this study is a community-based study focusing on the awareness, knowledge and attitude towards women living with fibroid in Benue State. The study is anchored on theory of planned behaviour. Study participants were selected from 4 Tiv-speaking Local Government Areas in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential exploratory mixed method of data collection was used. Findings revealed substantial (94.2%) awareness of fibroid by women, whose major sources of information were friends, family and electronic media. The primary causes of fibroid are witchcraft (58%), use of contraceptives (56.6%), poor dieting (57.7%) and remnant blood from menses (50%), while the identified symptoms are irregular menstruation, heavy bleeding, lump in the stomach, constant miscarriage, difficulty in conception, constant back pain and painful sexual intercourse. The perception that women living with fibroid be treated unlike other women (72.9%) and men be discouraged from marrying women living with fibroid (51.6%) still hold sway in the study area. The study recommended the provision of health education programmes and effective public awareness and enlightenment campaigns by the Government and Non-Governmental Organizations for fibroid and its related issues.
THE NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, 2019
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility ... more Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility among women. While there are several clinic-based studies on the biological context of fibroid, very few had examined its socio-cultural context in a community study in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, examined health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid in Tiv communities in Benue State, Nigeria. The study participants were selected from 4 Tiv speaking local government areas (Gboko, Makurdi, Ukum and Vandeikya) in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential explanatory mixed method of data collection was used. Fibroid occurrence is common among women in age categories 30-39 (51%). All the respondents living fibroid sought treatment, however, 60% of the respondents prefer orthodox medical treatment while the remaining 40% prefer the traditional healing process. Income, proximity to healthcare facility, influence of relatives, friends, and health professionals have stronger influence on the health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid. The health seeking is combination of both traditional and modern medicines while surgical procedure is less utilised. The study recommends an increased sensitization and awareness about fibroid.
THE NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, 2020
In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications ... more In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidities among women of reproductive age especially in rural communities. This paper examined how women in rural Benue State prepare for births especially as it relates to utilization of maternal healthcare services to avoid potential pregnancy and childbirth related complications. It specifically investigated the factors that hinder rural women from birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR). The study which was anchored on Rational Choice Theory utilized intra method triangulation to elicit qualitative data from women of reproductive age (15-49), Woman leaders and community health personnel from 6 rural communities drawn from 3 local government areas in Benue State. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-depth Interviews (IDIs) were the main instruments used for data collection in order to capture the nuances involved. Findings indicate that utilization of maternal health services in preparation for births among rural women is poor. Cost of transportation, poor knowledge and concerns over cost of service were key barriers to BPCR. The study recommends that policy makers and all stake holders should intensify awareness on the needs and importance of BPCR, and that government should consider complete removal of user-fees on maternal healthcare services in order to improve BPCR.
Patterns of illness may be conceived from the social perspective where attention is focused on th... more Patterns of illness may be conceived from the social perspective where attention is focused on the life
conditions status and environment of the population as determinants of the prevalence and the perception
of ailments. This is the fact that essentially determines the nature of medical care (that is whether the
care should be preventive, curative or interventionist in approach) and invariably utilization pattern. This
paper aims to bring to lime light, how people’s culture is a crucial factor in explaining the causes and
treatment of a particular ailment. The paper discusses some beliefs about illness and the medium through
which these illnesses are treated for the wellness of the individual. The factors that determine the patterns
of healthcare utilization were discussed for better understanding of how and why people have a
particular perception about a disease and why they choose to use a particular healthcare delivery system
for the treatment of such diseases.
The persistent high occurrence of maternal and child morbidity and mortality especially in Sub-Sa... more The persistent high occurrence of maternal and child morbidity and mortality especially in Sub-Saharan African societies still reflects that much ground is yet to be covered on maternal and child healthcare. The study therefore, investigates the socio-cultural factors that influence the utilization of MCH. The study uses triangulation of a structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview in data collection. The study population of 208 men and women and 4 health workers and the findings from the analyzed data reveal that the level of education of mothers', patriarchal family system, cultural beliefs and economic stand of the family are the factors that influence the level of utilization of maternal and child healthcare services. Consequent upon the findings of the study, there is need for social empowerment of women and revitalization of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Nigeria.
The perceived role of God in illness and recovery is a primary influence upon the health care bel... more The perceived role of God in illness and recovery is a primary influence upon the health care beliefs and behaviours of people. The religious beliefs of the people result in many health care beliefs and practices which are significantly different based on the persons religion. Only by understanding the religious beliefs of individuals can medical practitioners effectively meet the health care needs of patients of diverse religious beliefs. This paper seeks to discuss the various religions that people affiliate with and the beliefs and practices of such religions towards various health issues. This will enhance the knowledge of the society in general and the medical practitioners in understanding how religion and spirituality are felt, lived, and experienced by the people. This would help professionals release the old stereotypes and prejudices that they have about certain religious beliefs and practices. The religious freedom of the patients would not be infringed upon before, during and after treatment.
This study examined the incidents of communal conflicts and the implications of these conflicts o... more This study examined the incidents of communal conflicts and the implications of these conflicts on human health in the contemporary. Despite the fact that health problems associated with conflict are largely preventable, attention is yet to be directed towards communal conflict preventive approaches; hence societies are experiencing high human health problems. The persistence of the problem further suggests that there is little understanding of the dangers and effects of conflict on human health especially in conflict laden societies. The eruption of communal conflicts usually results in massive loss of lives and destruction of properties. It also hinders, man power growth, labour strength, socioeconomic development, social cohesion and political stability. Communal conflicts have the proclivity or tendency to undermine the health of the society. In order to control the explosion of communal conflicts in Nigeria, the study investigates communal conflicts and the danger it poses to human health with the aim of providing information on the immediate and root causes of communal conflicts, management and prevention of conflict in the society. This will assist in creating a holistic healthy society.
Adolescent girls often lack knowledge regarding reproductive health including menstruation hygien... more Adolescent girls often lack knowledge regarding reproductive health including menstruation hygiene which can be due to socio-cultural barriers in which they grow up This study was undertaken to examine the knowledge, perception, practices and experiences of adolescent females between the ages of 10-19 years old on issues regarding menstruation and menstrual hygiene. This study is cross sectional using a non-experimental descriptive survey research. The sample size was selected using a multistage sampling technique: stratified, simple random and purposive sampling technique. The quantitative data collected was analysed using univariate and bivariate analyses. The study found out that most of the adolescents used sanitary pads as absorbent during their last menses, changed menstrual dressings 2-4 times per day; most increased the frequency of bathing. Institutionalizing sexuality education in Nigerian schools; developing and disseminating sensitive adolescent reproductive health messages targeted at both; parents and their adolescent females and improving access of the young females to youth health services are vital means of meeting the reproductive health needs of the adolescent females in Nigeria.
There has been an increasing awareness of the need to pay special focus on the adolescent and the... more There has been an increasing awareness of the need to pay special focus on the adolescent and their sexual and reproductive health. Religion plays a significant role in the life of individuals in every society. Its role as a moral builder has been variously acknowledged. This study examined the role of religion on the reproductive health behaviour of youths. The study was conducted in Makurdi, Benue State. Data for the study were collected from a representative sample of youths resident in Makurdi local government area. A total of 550 youths were successfully sampled using the purposive sampling technique. Results are presented in frequencies and percentages and the relationship between religious commitment and youth reproductive behaviour was tested. The study found out that, religion is irrelevant for youth who even if they are aware of the religious values still have sexual intercourse before marriage. The study also revealed that peers and mass media affect sexual attitudes and behaviour more than religion. Though religious practices are indicators that should affect youth reproductive health behaviour and attitudes towards premarital sexual activity but it is not so in practical lives of the youths. Since religion does not affect the sexual lifestyles of adolescents, religious representatives should take note of this double moral standard and thereby assist the State towards supporting HIV/AIDS, STI prevention initiatives and the formulation of accurate health policies in the country.
Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public heal... more Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public health importance. About 90% of all malaria deaths in the world today occur in Africa. An estimated one million people in Africa die from malaria each year and most of these are children under five years old
The Nigerian Journal of Sociology and Anthropology
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility ... more Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility among women. While there are several clinic-based studies on the biological context of fibroid, very few had examined its socio-cultural context in a community study in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, examined health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid in Tiv communities in Benue State, Nigeria. The study participants were selected from 4 Tiv speaking local government areas (Gboko, Makurdi, Ukum and Vandeikya) in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential explanatory mixed method of data collection was used. Fibroid occurrence is common among women in age categories 30-39 (51%). All the respondents living fibroid sought treatment, however, 60% of the respondents prefer orthodox medical treatment while the remaining 40% prefer the traditional healing process. Income, proximity to healthcare facility, influence of relatives, friends, and health professionals ...
The Nigerian Journal of Sociology and Anthropology
In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications ... more In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidities among women of reproductive age especially in rural communities. This paper examined how women in rural Benue State prepare for births especially as it relates to utilization of maternal healthcare services to avoid potential pregnancy and childbirth related complications. It specifically investigated the factors that hinder rural women from birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR). The study which was anchored on Rational Choice Theory utilized intra method triangulation to elicit qualitative data from women of reproductive age (15-49), Woman leaders and community health personnel from 6 rural communities drawn from 3 local government areas in Benue State. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-depth Interviews (IDIs) were the main instruments used for data collection in order to capture the nuances involved. Findings ...
Global Journal of Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, 2015
Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public heal... more Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public health importance. About 90% of all malaria deaths in the world today occur in Africa. An estimated one million people in Africa die from malaria each year and most of these are children under five years old The factors determining the health behaviours may be seen in various contexts: physical, socioeconomic , cultural and political. Therefore, the utilization of a health care system, public or private, formal or non-formal, may depend on socio-demographic factors, social structures, level of education, cultural beliefs and practices, gender discrimination, status of women, economic and political systems, environmental conditions, and the disease pattern and health care system itself. Malaria remains a major Public Health problem in Nigeria and causes death and illness in children and adults, especially pregnant women. The objective of this review is to look at the following areas: malaria epidemiology; the burden of malaria on Nigerian rural dwellers; perception and treatment seeking behaviour of rural dwellers; and treatment sources of the rural dwellers.
FUWUKARI INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND DEVELOPMENT, 2019
Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths located in the uterus of women, creating severe complicatio... more Uterine fibroids are abnormal growths located in the uterus of women, creating severe complications such as infertility and death. Most studies on fibroid in Nigeria are hospitalbased. Hence, this study is a community-based study focusing on the awareness, knowledge and attitude towards women living with fibroid in Benue State. The study is anchored on theory of planned behaviour. Study participants were selected from 4 Tiv-speaking Local Government Areas in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential exploratory mixed method of data collection was used. Findings revealed substantial (94.2%) awareness of fibroid by women, whose major sources of information were friends, family and electronic media. The primary causes of fibroid are witchcraft (58%), use of contraceptives (56.6%), poor dieting (57.7%) and remnant blood from menses (50%), while the identified symptoms are irregular menstruation, heavy bleeding, lump in the stomach, constant miscarriage, difficulty in conception, constant back pain and painful sexual intercourse. The perception that women living with fibroid be treated unlike other women (72.9%) and men be discouraged from marrying women living with fibroid (51.6%) still hold sway in the study area. The study recommended the provision of health education programmes and effective public awareness and enlightenment campaigns by the Government and Non-Governmental Organizations for fibroid and its related issues.
THE NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, 2019
Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility ... more Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors and one of the foremost causes of infertility among women. While there are several clinic-based studies on the biological context of fibroid, very few had examined its socio-cultural context in a community study in Nigeria. This paper, therefore, examined health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid in Tiv communities in Benue State, Nigeria. The study participants were selected from 4 Tiv speaking local government areas (Gboko, Makurdi, Ukum and Vandeikya) in Benue State through multi stage sampling technique. Sequential explanatory mixed method of data collection was used. Fibroid occurrence is common among women in age categories 30-39 (51%). All the respondents living fibroid sought treatment, however, 60% of the respondents prefer orthodox medical treatment while the remaining 40% prefer the traditional healing process. Income, proximity to healthcare facility, influence of relatives, friends, and health professionals have stronger influence on the health seeking behaviour of women living with fibroid. The health seeking is combination of both traditional and modern medicines while surgical procedure is less utilised. The study recommends an increased sensitization and awareness about fibroid.
THE NIGERIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIOLOGY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, 2020
In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications ... more In many sub-Saharan African countries, including Nigeria, pregnancy and childbirth complications are among the leading causes of mortality and morbidities among women of reproductive age especially in rural communities. This paper examined how women in rural Benue State prepare for births especially as it relates to utilization of maternal healthcare services to avoid potential pregnancy and childbirth related complications. It specifically investigated the factors that hinder rural women from birth preparedness and complication readiness (BPCR). The study which was anchored on Rational Choice Theory utilized intra method triangulation to elicit qualitative data from women of reproductive age (15-49), Woman leaders and community health personnel from 6 rural communities drawn from 3 local government areas in Benue State. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and In-depth Interviews (IDIs) were the main instruments used for data collection in order to capture the nuances involved. Findings indicate that utilization of maternal health services in preparation for births among rural women is poor. Cost of transportation, poor knowledge and concerns over cost of service were key barriers to BPCR. The study recommends that policy makers and all stake holders should intensify awareness on the needs and importance of BPCR, and that government should consider complete removal of user-fees on maternal healthcare services in order to improve BPCR.
Patterns of illness may be conceived from the social perspective where attention is focused on th... more Patterns of illness may be conceived from the social perspective where attention is focused on the life
conditions status and environment of the population as determinants of the prevalence and the perception
of ailments. This is the fact that essentially determines the nature of medical care (that is whether the
care should be preventive, curative or interventionist in approach) and invariably utilization pattern. This
paper aims to bring to lime light, how people’s culture is a crucial factor in explaining the causes and
treatment of a particular ailment. The paper discusses some beliefs about illness and the medium through
which these illnesses are treated for the wellness of the individual. The factors that determine the patterns
of healthcare utilization were discussed for better understanding of how and why people have a
particular perception about a disease and why they choose to use a particular healthcare delivery system
for the treatment of such diseases.
The persistent high occurrence of maternal and child morbidity and mortality especially in Sub-Sa... more The persistent high occurrence of maternal and child morbidity and mortality especially in Sub-Saharan African societies still reflects that much ground is yet to be covered on maternal and child healthcare. The study therefore, investigates the socio-cultural factors that influence the utilization of MCH. The study uses triangulation of a structured questionnaire and an in-depth interview in data collection. The study population of 208 men and women and 4 health workers and the findings from the analyzed data reveal that the level of education of mothers', patriarchal family system, cultural beliefs and economic stand of the family are the factors that influence the level of utilization of maternal and child healthcare services. Consequent upon the findings of the study, there is need for social empowerment of women and revitalization of Primary Health Care (PHC) in Nigeria.
The perceived role of God in illness and recovery is a primary influence upon the health care bel... more The perceived role of God in illness and recovery is a primary influence upon the health care beliefs and behaviours of people. The religious beliefs of the people result in many health care beliefs and practices which are significantly different based on the persons religion. Only by understanding the religious beliefs of individuals can medical practitioners effectively meet the health care needs of patients of diverse religious beliefs. This paper seeks to discuss the various religions that people affiliate with and the beliefs and practices of such religions towards various health issues. This will enhance the knowledge of the society in general and the medical practitioners in understanding how religion and spirituality are felt, lived, and experienced by the people. This would help professionals release the old stereotypes and prejudices that they have about certain religious beliefs and practices. The religious freedom of the patients would not be infringed upon before, during and after treatment.
This study examined the incidents of communal conflicts and the implications of these conflicts o... more This study examined the incidents of communal conflicts and the implications of these conflicts on human health in the contemporary. Despite the fact that health problems associated with conflict are largely preventable, attention is yet to be directed towards communal conflict preventive approaches; hence societies are experiencing high human health problems. The persistence of the problem further suggests that there is little understanding of the dangers and effects of conflict on human health especially in conflict laden societies. The eruption of communal conflicts usually results in massive loss of lives and destruction of properties. It also hinders, man power growth, labour strength, socioeconomic development, social cohesion and political stability. Communal conflicts have the proclivity or tendency to undermine the health of the society. In order to control the explosion of communal conflicts in Nigeria, the study investigates communal conflicts and the danger it poses to human health with the aim of providing information on the immediate and root causes of communal conflicts, management and prevention of conflict in the society. This will assist in creating a holistic healthy society.
Adolescent girls often lack knowledge regarding reproductive health including menstruation hygien... more Adolescent girls often lack knowledge regarding reproductive health including menstruation hygiene which can be due to socio-cultural barriers in which they grow up This study was undertaken to examine the knowledge, perception, practices and experiences of adolescent females between the ages of 10-19 years old on issues regarding menstruation and menstrual hygiene. This study is cross sectional using a non-experimental descriptive survey research. The sample size was selected using a multistage sampling technique: stratified, simple random and purposive sampling technique. The quantitative data collected was analysed using univariate and bivariate analyses. The study found out that most of the adolescents used sanitary pads as absorbent during their last menses, changed menstrual dressings 2-4 times per day; most increased the frequency of bathing. Institutionalizing sexuality education in Nigerian schools; developing and disseminating sensitive adolescent reproductive health messages targeted at both; parents and their adolescent females and improving access of the young females to youth health services are vital means of meeting the reproductive health needs of the adolescent females in Nigeria.
There has been an increasing awareness of the need to pay special focus on the adolescent and the... more There has been an increasing awareness of the need to pay special focus on the adolescent and their sexual and reproductive health. Religion plays a significant role in the life of individuals in every society. Its role as a moral builder has been variously acknowledged. This study examined the role of religion on the reproductive health behaviour of youths. The study was conducted in Makurdi, Benue State. Data for the study were collected from a representative sample of youths resident in Makurdi local government area. A total of 550 youths were successfully sampled using the purposive sampling technique. Results are presented in frequencies and percentages and the relationship between religious commitment and youth reproductive behaviour was tested. The study found out that, religion is irrelevant for youth who even if they are aware of the religious values still have sexual intercourse before marriage. The study also revealed that peers and mass media affect sexual attitudes and behaviour more than religion. Though religious practices are indicators that should affect youth reproductive health behaviour and attitudes towards premarital sexual activity but it is not so in practical lives of the youths. Since religion does not affect the sexual lifestyles of adolescents, religious representatives should take note of this double moral standard and thereby assist the State towards supporting HIV/AIDS, STI prevention initiatives and the formulation of accurate health policies in the country.
Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public heal... more Malaria is the most important parasitic disease in the tropics and remains of highest public health importance. About 90% of all malaria deaths in the world today occur in Africa. An estimated one million people in Africa die from malaria each year and most of these are children under five years old