| Abstract: |
The increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as prostate
disorders and diabetes has become a significant public health concern in Nigeria,
particularly in sub-national contexts like Ebonyi State. These conditions are often
associated with late diagnosis, poor awareness, and inadequate health-seeking
behaviours among the population. This situation underscores the critical role of
media messages and health advocacy in shaping public understanding and
responses to such diseases. The media, through information dissemination,
surveillance, and agenda-setting functions, serve as a vital platform for promoting
health awareness and influencing behavioural change. This paper is a conceptual
review that examines the role of media messages and health advocacy in addressing
prostate and diabetic morbidities in Ebonyi State. Anchored on the Health Belief
Model and Agenda-Setting Theory, the study explores how media exposure
contributes to awareness, perception, and health-seeking behaviour among
residents. It suggested that while media messages have contributed to increased
awareness, challenges such as message inconsistency, limited reach in rural areas,
and cultural barriers still persist. It therefore recommended that effective,
consistent, and culturally sensitive health advocacy using the media should be
executed for early detection, prevention, and management of prostate and diabetic
conditions in Ebonyi State.
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