Knowledge and Utilization of Periodic Medical Check-Ups and their Impact on Health Outcomes among University of Port Harcourt Staff

Abstract

This study investigated the level of knowledge and extent of utilization of Periodic Medical Check-up (PMC) and their impact on health outcome among University of Port Harcourt Staff. A cross-sectional descriptive survey design was adopted, targeting 60 years and above workers in the University of Port Harcourt. A total of 137 participants were selected using convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured self-questionnaire titled "Knowledge and utilization of Periodic Medical Check-up Questionnaire (KUPMCQ)." Analysis was performed using SPSS Version 27, employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analysis to assess associations between knowledge, sociodemographic variables, and PMC utilization. The results revealed a poor level of PMC knowledge, with an aggregate of 44.5% correct responses, and 55.5% incorrect responses. Only a few areas, such as questions on regularly seeking periodic health examination at specific and regular time while he / she is healthy, engage in regular physical activity. Since you don’t go for periodic medical check-ups and that periodic medical check-ups can help detect health problems early, 59.9%, 57.7% and 56.2% showed relatively good knowledge but remained below satisfactory levels on routine check-up during birthday periods. The mean extent of PMC utilization was 2.70 ± 1.20. The majority of the responses were below the cut-off mean, suggesting poor utilization of PMC among University of Port Harcourt Staff aged 60 and above. However, some have undergone periodic medical check-ups in the past years (3.32 ± 1.18), and for diagnostics purposes (3.34 ± 1.16) reveal moderate level of utilization, and higher impact level. Conclusively, this research thus accomplished that there is a poor level of knowledge of PMC among aged sixty years and above workers in university of Port Harcourt towards healthy lifestyles. It is imperative to sustain and expand its initiatives. Health Educators and Health promoters should enhance PMC’s awareness campaigns.