Evidence Based Health Demographic Assessment of URIRI Sub-County in Migori County, Kenya

Abstract

Objective: To assess health demographic profile of Uriri sub-County in Migori county, Kenya.

Study Design: Prospective study using a questionnaire

Study Setting: Uriri Sub-County in Migori County, Kenya

Study Participants/Subjects: Mothers with children under the age of five years. This was done purposely in order to capture the relevant information required on maternal, child health and other areas.

Results: The survey revealed many gaps that needed interventions both locally and from the National level. The literacy levels were still wanting with 70% not going past tertiary levels of education. This had an impact on diverse areas socio-economically starting with family life with children occupying 56% of the total house hold composition. This led to low literacy levels. The finding also revealed poor food security situation in Uriri constituency, with over 70% admitting they did not have enough food stocks in their households to last them till the next harvest. Three hundred and forty one (50.3%) mothers did not deliver in the available health facilities and 40.7% did not attend Antenatal Clinics.

Conclusion: Literacy especially amongst women is quite important in the making of a community, even though both sexes play an important part in passing education down their generations. Lack of education and information on pertinent issues of family care led to increased numbers of children which directly impacted on the overall population. Lack of financial capacity and economic empowerment was part of the reason for food insecurity in the area. The study showed that half of the women in Migori County do not visit the health facilities available in the county. This is in spite of the Government providing health resources in the region.