Parents’ perception and cultural construction of episodes of childhood pneumonia in Buea, Cameroon

Abstract

Childhood pneumonia deaths are still common despite the availability of potent antibiotics and other treatments. The study explores how parents perceive and culturally construct episodes of childhood pneumonia in Buea, Cameroon. Specifically, the study explores parents’ perceptions and interpretations of the signs and symptoms of childhood pneumonia, the causes of childhood pneumonia and perception of preventive measures of childhood pneumonia in Buea, Cameroon. A phenomenological research design within a qualitative research approach was used. The Theory of Reasoned action and the Theory of Planned Behaviour guided the study. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 38 participants. In-depth interviews, focus groups, and observations were used for primary data collection. The Colaizzi seven-step method together with NVivo 11 were employed for data analysis. Results on signs and symptoms revealed that parents' awareness and understanding of pneumonia were low, with most of the information coming from unofficial sources. Four causes of childhood pneumonia were identified: environmental, biological, cultural, and spiritual. Findings on preventive measures revealed that immunisations, proper nutrition, and adequate water may help avoid paediatric pneumonia. It is vital to implement realistic suggestions in rural areas that prioritise boosting healthcare access, nutritional status, sanitation, and immunisation rates.