Browsing by Author "Hyera, Pendo"

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    Effectiveness of communication channels use in disseminating nutrition information for people living with HIV/AIDS in Mbeya region Tanzania
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2006) Hyera, Pendo
    Nutrition intervention aims at preventing or reversing loss of weight in HIV infection, and may help to improve quality of life and prolong survival with AIDS. This study aimed at investigating the effectiveness of communication channels used in disseminating nutrition information for PLWHA in Mbeya region. Specifically, the study assessed PLWHA’s awareness to some nutrition issues related to HIV/AIDS, the availability and accessibility of various communication channels and their effectiveness in bringing about changes in nutrition behaviour. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were applied with several methods and techniques of data collection including face-to-face interviews, observations, documentary reviews and questionnaire tools. Out of the 60 respondents in both rural and urban areas, 23 (38.3%) mentioned service providers as the most effective communication channel in creating nutrition awareness, followed by the radio. Results showed that majority of PLWHA do not have access to television in both rural and urban areas, mainly due to poverty and poor infrastructure. Printed sources such as leaflets and posters were limited due to inadequate supply. More than half of the respondents had very little knowledge on nutrition issues. The study concludes that communication alone cannot guarantee changes in nutrition behaviors, there are other factors such as poverty and culture that need to be dealt with.