Background of the Study
Faith-based organizations (FBOs) play a vital role in health promotion, particularly in Nigeria, where religious organizations are deeply embedded in the social fabric of communities. In Nasarawa State, like many other regions in Nigeria, FBOs are increasingly involved in health initiatives, often complementing government efforts in raising awareness, disseminating information, and providing health services to the public (Adeoye & Adebayo, 2023). One critical health issue that FBOs have taken on in recent years is the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which have become a leading cause of mortality in Nigeria (Salami et al., 2024). These organizations are often in a unique position to reach large populations, leveraging the trust and influence they hold in local communities.
The role of faith-based organizations in raising awareness about cardiac health is multifaceted. They can utilize their platforms for community education, counseling, and advocacy, helping to disseminate information about the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases (Ezeani et al., 2023). Furthermore, FBOs may collaborate with healthcare professionals and other organizations to host health workshops, screenings, and awareness campaigns that promote cardiovascular health (Okunola et al., 2024). While FBOs have a long history of involvement in health issues, there is a gap in research regarding the specific ways in which these organizations contribute to raising awareness about cardiac health, particularly in Nasarawa State.
This study, therefore, aims to investigate the role of faith-based organizations in supporting cardiac health awareness in Nasarawa State, focusing on the methods, outreach efforts, and effectiveness of their health promotion activities.
Statement of the Problem
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are increasingly prevalent in Nigeria, with a significant burden on both individuals and the healthcare system (Adeoye & Adebayo, 2023). Despite efforts to raise awareness about these diseases, the rate of public awareness remains low, especially in rural areas. Faith-based organizations, which have a wide-reaching influence in communities, have the potential to play a more substantial role in improving public knowledge about cardiac health. However, there is limited research on how FBOs in Nasarawa State specifically contribute to cardiac health awareness, the challenges they face, and the impact of their initiatives on the local population. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the contributions of FBOs to cardiac health awareness and their effectiveness in improving public understanding and prevention of CVDs.
Objectives of the Study
1. To examine the role of faith-based organizations in raising awareness about cardiac health in Nasarawa State.
2. To assess the methods and strategies used by FBOs to promote cardiac health awareness.
3. To evaluate the effectiveness of FBOs’ cardiac health awareness campaigns in improving public knowledge and preventive behaviors.
Research Questions
1. What role do faith-based organizations play in raising awareness about cardiac health in Nasarawa State?
2. What methods and strategies do faith-based organizations use to promote cardiac health awareness?
3. How effective are the awareness campaigns by FBOs in enhancing public knowledge and encouraging preventive behaviors related to cardiac health?
Research Hypotheses
1. Faith-based organizations significantly contribute to the improvement of public awareness about cardiac health in Nasarawa State.
2. The strategies and methods used by faith-based organizations are effective in promoting cardiac health awareness and preventive behaviors.
3. Awareness campaigns by faith-based organizations lead to a measurable increase in the adoption of cardiac health prevention practices in Nasarawa State.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on faith-based organizations in Nasarawa State that are actively involved in health promotion, specifically in the area of cardiac health. The research will assess the methods, effectiveness, and reach of these organizations’ campaigns. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data from FBO representatives and the challenges of measuring the direct impact of awareness campaigns on public behavior.
Definitions of Terms
1. Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs): Religious institutions or groups involved in activities that aim to improve the health and well-being of communities, particularly through education, advocacy, and services.
2. Cardiac Health Awareness: Public knowledge and understanding of cardiovascular diseases, including prevention, management, and lifestyle changes to reduce risk factors.
3. Prevention: Actions taken to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as adopting healthy eating habits, regular exercise, and avoiding tobacco use.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
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