Information Behaviors of Patients with Sickle Cell Disease in Sociocultural Context: A Fresh Perspective for Designing Sickle Cell Disease Information Services and Communication Programs

Abstract

Sickle cell disease is a serious health problem globally. Despite efforts to reduce the burden of the disease, only a limited number of studies have examined SCD from a sociocultural perspective. This study aims at understanding information behavior of patients with sickle cell disease, using Chatman theory of information behavior as a theoretical framework to guide the investigation. This study adopted interpretative research paradigm and collected qualitative data using in-depth interview. Inductive analytical processes were used to analyze the data collected. Findings based on Chatman theory of information behavior revealed that sociocultural beliefs are the main reason for non-use of information communicated to patients with sickle cell disease. Therefore, this study recommended that for a sustained acceptance and use of information communicated to patients with sickle cell disease, there is the critical need for health policy makers and information professionals to design information program for patients with sickle cell disease based on the social and cultural Setting.