Health-Related Radio Programming and the Adoption of Healthy Behaviours in Enugu State, Nigeria

The study examined the influence of health-related radio programming on the adoption of healthy behaviours among residents of Enugu State, Nigeria. It focused on how awareness, accessibility, and perceived adequacy of such programming affect behavioural outcomes in public health communication. A survey research design was employed, with data collected from 380 respondents across Enugu State. The data were analysed using multiple regression techniques to determine the relationships between the study variables and healthy behaviour adoption. Findings revealed that awareness of health-related radio programming and access to such content significantly predicted the adoption of healthy behaviours among respondents. In contrast, demographic factors such as age, gender, education, and occupation were not significant predictors of behaviour change. Additionally, perceived adequacy of health programming did not have a significant influence on behavioural outcomes. The study concludes that consistent exposure and accessibility to health-related radio content play a crucial role in promoting positive health behaviours. It recommends that broadcasters and health communication stakeholders strengthen the reach, frequency, and distribution of health-focused radio programmes to enhance their effectiveness as a public health intervention tool in Enugu State and similar contexts.