Background of the Study
Self-medication, the practice of using drugs without professional medical guidance, has become a common behavior among individuals seeking quick solutions for health issues, especially in regions with limited access to healthcare facilities (Oluwaseun & Mohammed, 2024). In Nigeria, including Jigawa State, self-medication is widespread, particularly for treating common ailments such as fevers, coughs, and headaches. This practice often leads to improper use of antibiotics, which contributes to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance (Gambo et al., 2025). Antibiotic resistance occurs when bacteria evolve and become resistant to the drugs that once killed them, leading to more difficult-to-treat infections (Alhaji et al., 2023).
Jigawa State, located in northwestern Nigeria, faces significant challenges in healthcare delivery, with many rural areas lacking adequate medical services. This shortage of healthcare providers, combined with cultural factors and a lack of awareness about the risks of improper medication, has led to widespread self-medication practices (Shehu et al., 2024). Studies indicate that individuals in Jigawa State often use antibiotics without prescriptions, which increases the likelihood of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This issue has been exacerbated by the easy availability of over-the-counter antibiotics in local pharmacies and markets, further complicating efforts to combat antibiotic resistance.
The impact of self-medication on antibiotic resistance in Jigawa State needs to be addressed in order to reduce the incidence of resistant infections and to promote the rational use of antibiotics. Investigating the relationship between self-medication practices and antibiotic resistance is crucial for developing effective health policies that can mitigate this growing public health threat.
Statement of the Problem
The rise of antibiotic resistance in Jigawa State is closely linked to the widespread practice of self-medication, which is largely unregulated and often involves improper use of antibiotics. Despite efforts by health authorities to curb this behavior, self-medication continues to be a significant contributor to the problem. There is a need to investigate the impact of self-medication on antibiotic resistance in the region to inform public health strategies aimed at mitigating this issue.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on the prevalence and impact of self-medication on antibiotic resistance in Jigawa State. Data will be collected through surveys and interviews with residents in both urban and rural areas. Limitations include potential biases in self-reported data and challenges in measuring long-term antibiotic resistance outcomes.
Definitions of Terms
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