Knowledge about Malaria and Antimalarial Drug Dispensing Practices among Medication Vendors in the Dschang Health District

Abstract

Background: In Sub-Saharan Africa, medication vendors (MVs) operating in the informal sector play a key role in distributing antimalarial treatments, thereby complementing formal healthcare services. However, their lack of knowledge and irrational practices present major risks, notably drug resistance and adverse effects. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and practice about malaria, and identify the factors associated with antimalarial drug dispensing among medication vendors in the Dschang health district (DHD) in Cameroon. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study targeting MVs. They were recruited through exhaustive sampling across all health areas of the DHD. Data were collected using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire administered face to face, capturing sociodemographic characteristics, malaria-related knowledge and practices related to antimalarial drug dispensing. The data collected was then entered with CSPro 7.7 software, and statistical analysis were carried out using SPSS 23. Multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify factors associated with antimalarial drug dispensing practices. Results: A total of 105 medication vendors participated in the study. 81.0% were male and 67% were aged 20-29 years. Only 32.4% demonstrated good knowledge about malaria transmission, symptoms and treatment. Regarding practices, 62% dispensed antimalarials inappropriately, 40% doing so without requiring a prescription for oral forms and 17.1% for injectables. The main factors associated with poor practices were insufficient knowledge (aOR = 7.22; 95% CI: 2.12–24.59; p=0.002) and the absence of formal health training (aOR = 8.08; 95% CI: 2.12–30.69; p=0.002). Conclusion: The results reveal deficiencies in knowledge and practices among MVs, increasing the risks of resistance, misuse of antimalarials and counterfeit drugs dispensation. There is an urgent need to strengthen their training, supervise their activities, and raise community awareness about the rational use of medication. These combined measures are essential for improving malaria management and reducing its burden in the region.