Prevalence and Drivers of Treatment Seeking Behaviour among Under-five Children Experiencing Acute Respiratory Infection in India
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Background Acute Respiratory Infection (ARI) is one of the leading causes of under-five (U5) mortality, especially in low and middle-income and developing countries like India. Despite several health implications, it imposes a substantial economic burden on individual households. In India, the prevalence of ARI among U5 children has increased from 2016 to 2021 while simultaneously treatment-seeking behaviour (TSB) has decreased. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the prevalence and factors associated with the TSB among U5 children experiencing ARI in India. Methodology The study used the last two rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-IV, 2016 & NFHS-V, 2021) data. The bivariate analysis with a chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression models were employed to examine the association and determinants of TSB among U5 children in India. Results The present study revealed that the prevalence of TSB among children experiencing ARI in India has decreased from 78 percent in 2016 to 52 percent in 2021. The multilevel logistic regression model indicated that children from rural areas (AOR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.72–0.97), Empowered Action Group (EAG) states (AOR:0.81; 95% CI:0.67–0.99), and households reporting transportation as a barrier (AOR:0.87; 95% CI:0.75–0.97) had lower odds of seeking treatment compared to their counterparts. Conversely, TSB was more likely among households headed by women (AOR:1.32; 95% CI:1.15–1.51), those with media exposure (AOR:1.23; 95% CI:1.06–1.43), and those in the higher wealth index categories. Conclusion Based on these findings, the study recommends that public health programs should focus on the indicators to improve treatment-seeking behaviour among children, and also can help to reduce child morbidity and mortality due to ARI in India. Additionally, these efforts may contribute to reducing the risk of ARI and achieving the country's SDG target by 2030.
