BROADCAST MEDIA AND THE CAMPAIGN AGAINST MALARIA IN CALABAR METROPOLIS

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of broadcast media campaigns in raising awareness and influencing behavioral changes regarding malaria prevention and treatment in the Calabar Metropolis, Cross River State, Nigeria. A survey method was employed, focusing on 400 randomly selected residents from different streets in Calabar Metropolis. Data was collected using structured questionnaires, and responses were analyzed using simple frequency and percentage distribution methods. The primary media channel analyzed in the study was broadcast media, specifically television and radio, with some influence from social media platforms. The study revealed that awareness of malaria broadcast media campaigns is high, with television being the most common medium through which messages were received. Respondents reported that the campaigns effectively influenced their knowledge and behaviors, leading to the adoption of preventive measures like using insecticide-treated nets. The study found the current broadcast media campaigns to be largely effective in raising aw?rel}ess and encouraging preventive action. The study concluded that broadcast media plays a significant role in creating awareness about malaria prevention and treatment, particularly through television. However, the study recommends further improvements in campaign strategies, such as collaborating with health organizations and increasing the frequency of malaria-related content to enhance the reach and effectiveness of these campaigns.