Barriers to Early Detection of Chronic Diseases among University Students in Nigeria: Evidence from a Cross-Sectional Survey
Abstract:
Chronic diseases are more than ever affecting young adults in developing countries and countries in the middle and low-income regions. Although early screening is vital for detecting such diseases, the participation rate among Nigerian university students in this screening is low. This study aimed to identify challenges in the early detection of chronic diseases among tertiary school students. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 undergraduate students at a college in Nigeria. Data collection utilised structured, self-administered questionnaires that collected information on socio-demographic characteristics, awareness of conditions, risk perception, and barriers to screening. The analysis used descriptive statistics and chi-square tests at the 5% significance level. Of those who answered: 88.6% known about chronic diseases; only 40.2% understood enough; only 35.8% believed they were at risk. Key barriers included low susceptibility perception (64%), financial constraint (58.4%), fear of being diagnosed (55.2%), lack of screening services provided (52.6%), and lack of awareness of these services (49.8%). Institutional barriers, including long waiting time (46.2%) and limited on-campus health service (44%), were also observed. While many university students are aware of various chronic diseases, perceptions of risk with several structural issues are insufficient to allow for early detection. Enhancements of health education initiatives, improved availability of screening services, and supportive policy measures are all urgent issues. Chronic diseases, early detection, screening barriers, university students, Nigeria.References:
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