CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

This chapter includes different historical aspects related to auto medication, starting from the background of the study, followed with this is the problem statement, specific research questions and objectives, the justification for the study, the significance and the scope of the study.

1.1 BACKGROUND

Auto medication is the practice of individuals using drugs or other remedies to treat their own health issues without professional guidance. This includes the use of over-the-counter medications, herbal remedies, or leftover prescriptions. While auto medication can provide quick relief for minor ailments, it poses risks such as misdiagnosis, inappropriate use of medications, and potential side effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines auto medication as the treatment of self-recognized disorders or symptoms using medicines without prior consultation with a qualified health professional (Makowska et al., 2022). Auto medication has a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Early humans and societies, including the Egyptians and Greeks, utilized herbal remedies and natural substances based on traditional knowledge to treat various ailments. For example, evidence suggests that Neanderthals used plants with medicinal properties, indicating that auto medication behaviors have existed for thousands of years (Pérez et al., 2022).

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the commercialization of patent medicines drugs marketed directly to consumers—further popularized auto medication. The introduction of over-the-counter medications in the mid-20th century made it easier for individuals to manage their health independently. Recent studies indicate a significant increase in auto medication practices, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when individuals sought to avoid healthcare facilities due to fears of infection (Alshahrani et al., 2023). Research has shown that auto medication is prevalent across various populations, often driven by factors such as easy access to medications and the availability of health information online (Makowska et al., 2022; Alshahrani et al., 2023). However, this trend raises concerns regarding safety and efficacy, highlighting the need for better education on responsible auto medication practices to mitigate risks such as adverse drug reactions and antimicrobial resistance (Pérez et al., 2022).

Reports indicate that auto medication is increasingly common in various demographics, notably among young adults and university students, who often perceive it as a convenient approach to managing minor health issues (Alshahrani et al., 2023). However, this practice is accompanied by a concerning lack of awareness regarding the potential risks involved, such as improper dosage, drug interactions, and the dangers of using unverified remedies (Makowska et al., 2022). Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated auto medication trends, with many individuals opting to self-treat symptoms due to fears of visiting healthcare facilities (Alshahrani et al., 2023). This has led to increased use of both over-the-counter medications and unregulated substances, raising public health concerns. Furthermore, cultural factors play a crucial role, as certain regions exhibit higher rates of auto medication due to historical reliance on traditional medicine or herbal remedies (Pérez et al., 2022).

In Africa, auto medication is widely practiced across the continent, often driven by limited access to healthcare services, high out-of-pocket costs, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. Many individuals resort to using over-the-counter medications and traditional remedies to manage common ailments, relying on local pharmacies and community health workers for guidance (Osei et al., 2020). A significant proportion of the population turns to herbal medicines, which are deeply rooted in African traditions and often viewed as safe and effective alternatives to conventional treatments. However, this reliance on auto medication raises concerns about the lack of regulation and standardization of herbal products, leading to potential safety issues and ineffective treatments (Kumalo et al., 2021). Additionally, awareness of the risks associated with auto medication, such as adverse drug reactions or drug resistance, remains low among many communities (Bempong et al., 2022).

In Cameroon, a significant portion of the population engages in auto medication, driven by factors such as the high cost of medical consultations, long waiting times at healthcare facilities, and a shortage of healthcare professionals, particularly in rural areas (Ngoh et al., 2021). Many Cameroonians rely on over-the-counter medications and traditional herbal remedies, which are often viewed as accessible and culturally accepted alternatives to conventional medicine. The use of traditional medicine is deeply ingrained, with many individuals seeking guidance from local healers and community pharmacies rather than formal healthcare providers (Tih et al., 2022). However, this trend raises concerns regarding the safety and efficacy of auto medication practices, as many individuals lack adequate knowledge about appropriate dosages and potential drug interactions. Studies indicate that while urban residents might have better access to health information through media and education, rural populations often exhibit limited awareness of the dangers associated with auto medication (Ngoh et al., 2021). Additionally, the rise of counterfeit medications in the market exacerbates the risks, leading to ineffective treatments and increased health complications (Tih et al., 2022).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Auto medication presents a significant public health challenge characterized by the increasing prevalence of individuals using medications or remedies without professional guidance, leading to potential health risks and adverse outcomes. While it may offer immediate relief for common ailments, the practice often results in inappropriate use of medications, misdiagnosis, and the exacerbation of health issues. In many cases, individuals lack sufficient knowledge about proper dosages, potential side effects, and drug interactions, which can lead to complications such as antimicrobial resistance and harmful reactions. This issue is particularly pronounced in regions with limited healthcare access, where people may rely on unregulated over-the-counter medications or traditional remedies without understanding their safety profiles. Consequently, auto medication not only undermines the effectiveness of healthcare systems but also poses a threat to public health by increasing the burden of avoidable illnesses and complications.

Furthermore, the principal investigator has had several encounters with patients during different periods with the worst outcomes of auto medication, ranging from organ failure to systemic failure, which were often due to wrong dosages or the consumption of medications via inappropriate routes. These concerns and observations therefore motivated the principal investigator to carry out a study in order to assess the effects of auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

1.3.1 Main Research Objective

To assess the effects of auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community.

1.3.2 Specific Research Objectives

1. To identify the reasons for auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community.
2. To assess the level of knowledge on auto medication and its effects among inhabitants of the Bongwana community.
3. To evaluate the practices of auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community.

1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS

1.4.1 Main Research Question

What are the effects of auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community?

1.4.2 Specific Research Questions

1. What are the reasons for auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community?
2. What is the level of knowledge on auto medication and its effects among inhabitants of the Bongwana community?
3. What are the practices of auto medication among inhabitants of the Bongwana community?