ABSTRACT
Introduction: Malaria is a life-threatening disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Despite global efforts to control the disease, malaria remains a major public health challenge, particularly in subSaharan Africa. Effective management of malaria requires adequate patient knowledge regarding symptoms, prevention, and proper use of antimalarial medications. Objectives: To assess patients’ knowledge of malaria symptoms, transmission, and prevention methods; evaluate their understanding of antimalarial medications, including proper use and side effects; identify common misconceptions about malaria and its treatment; analyse the influence of sociodemographic factors on patient knowledge and treatment-seeking behaviour; determine the prevalence of self-medication practices; and explore patient attitudes toward healthcare-seeking behaviour and adherence to prescribed antimalarial drug regimens. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the General Practice Clinic Pharmacy Unit of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). A total of 335 patients were conveniently selected to participate in the study. Data were collected using a self-structured questionnaire assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge of malaria, treatment practices, and perceptions of antimalarial medications. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0, with a significance level of p<0.05. Results: All respondents had heard of malaria, with the majority (56.0%) reporting malaria episodes 1–3 times per year. Most participants (91.7%) used antimalarial medications for treatment, with Amatem Soft Gel (31.3%) being the most commonly used drug. However, 62.8% of respondents incorrectly believed that antibiotics were effective against malaria. Incomplete adherence to treatment regimens was observed, as 18.0% of respondents were unsure or believed it unnecessary to complete the full course of antimalarial therapy. Additionally, 60.1% of respondents had never received information about antimalarial drug resistance from healthcare professionals. A significant association was found between knowledge scores and beliefs about malaria prevention (p=0.00), while no significant gender difference in knowledge scores was observed (p=0.101). Conclusion: This study highlights gaps in patient knowledge regarding malaria treatment and prevention, with notable misconceptions about antibiotics and drug resistance. While awareness of malaria was high, adherence to recommended prevention and treatment strategies was inconsistent. The findings emphasize the need for targeted public health education, improved patient-provider communication, and stricter enforcement of antimalarial drug policies to enhance malaria management and reduce the risk of resistance. Keywords: Malaria, Patient Knowledge, Antimalarial Medications, Drug Resistance, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
