An Investigation into Health Information Environment of Market Women in Offa, Kwara State Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the health information environment of market women in Offa, a semi-urban area in Kwara State of Nigeria. The aim of the study was to identify the information needs of market women, to investigate the information sources, information seeking behaviour and the challenges associated with the use of information sources. Data was collected through a questionnaire. The return rate of the questionnaire administered was 93.5 percent. The findings revealed that the market women have diverse health information needs which include among others malaria fever, hygiene, anti-natal/post-natal care. The main sources of health information used by the market women include family / neighbours and radio. The study made recommendations such as the state government supporting the state library board. The public library should also assist to provide unlimited access to information through the audio-visual materials.

Keywords: Health information environment, market women, Offa Metropolis