An integrative review of the prevalence, patterns and predictors of self-medication in Ghana

Abstract

Within healthcare literature, evidence-based practice, which is born out of research (particularly reviews and critical appraisals) is increasingly becoming important. This has birthed new research into the synthesis of existing knowledge on different health issues. Having acknowledged the importance of evidence synthesis in evidence-based practice, this study was conceived to critically synthesize literature on the prevalence, patterns, and the determinants of self-medication among different segments of the Ghanaian population. The integrative review methodology was employed as the study's methodological foundation. Evidence was synthesized from the twelve articles that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. High incidence of self-medication was identified among various segments of the Ghanaian population (pregnant women, persons diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, older people and students among other groups). Furthermore, various factors that influenced self-medication (demography, self-rated health, and cost of healthcare, in addition to health system factors) were identified, and these reflect those espoused by the theories underlying the study (the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Health Belief Model). The study, therefore, has implications for policy on self-medication and the general delivery of healthcare in Ghana. Amongother things, the study recommends that the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, in collaboration with other related agencies and departments step up education and awareness programmes on the effects of self-medication. Additionally, there should be strict enforcement of regulations on the sale of drugs in open markets, chemical shops and pharmacies.

Keywords

• drugs
• health
• health behaviour
• predictors
• self-medication