Evaluating the Effectiveness of Televised Health Communications on Sickle Cell Disease Awareness in Abuja, FCT

Abstract

This study evaluates the role of televised health programmes in promoting awareness of sickle cell disease (SCD) in Abuja, Nigeria. Using a survey research design, data were collected from 400 respondents through questionnaires distributed across Abuja's six area councils. Findings revealed that 75% of respondents regularly watch health-related television content, with 61% favouring Channels TV over NTA for its dynamic programming. While 77% acknowledged television's role in improving SCD knowledge and 68% reported attitude shifts toward premarital genotype testing, only 36% translated awareness into preventive behaviours. Significant barriers identified included poor electricity supply (73%), cultural myths (71%), and limited media resources (51%). Despite television's reach, inconsistent messaging and resource constraints limited behavioural impact. The study underscores television's potential as a health education tool but advocates for multi-platform strategies, culturally sensitive content, and policy reforms to address structural barriers. Recommendations include enhanced funding for health programming, journalist training in medical communication, and community-led interventions to amplify SCD campaigns through culturally relevant messaging.