HEALTH INFORMATION NEEDS OF FRESH STUDENTS IN A NIGERIAN COLLEGE OF EDUCATION

Abstract

A survey of 460 students of Alvan Ikoku College of Education, Owerri, in I mo State, randomly selected, was carried out with a view to identifying their health information needs. The study was carried out between April and July 2006. A structured questionnaire was designed and used for data collection. The results of the survey showed that the students health information needs were on reproductive health, emotional health, personal hygiene and mental health promotion. Most of the respondents (92.4%) required information on reproductive health such as Sexually Transmitted diseases (STD), abortion,
unwanted pregnancy, menstruation and infertility. Their main sources of information were hospitals/private clinics, parents and friends. Lack of awareness, of current information materials and Information Communications Technology (ICT) facilities in the library and the attitude of library staff and health workers of the College health centre were among the constraints to effective health information delivery. Suggestions for the improvement of health information services were proffered.