Our team supported the Department of Health in evaluating how far the 2017 preventive treatment for lymphatic filariasis reached the communities of Sultan Kudarat. We helped train local survey teams, ensured standardized data collection, and led the analysis to generate findings that would guide future improvements in implementation.

What the Survey Set Out to Do

The main objective was to measure actual drug coverage and identify any differences between reported and observed figures. The survey also explored reasons why some individuals did not receive or take the treatment, how people learned about the campaign, and what factors influenced their participation.

Key Findings from the Field

The results revealed a noticeable gap between routine reports and survey verification. While official records indicated 93 percent coverage, only 68.2 percent of surveyed individuals reported taking both diethylcarbamazine and albendazole. Among eligible respondents aged two and above, 78.5 percent received both drugs and 91.1 percent of those took them.

Direct observation during drug intake was noted in just over half of the cases. Many respondents said they took the treatment because they were concerned about the disease or received advice from someone they trusted. Concerns about side effects were the most cited reason for refusing the drugs, although only eight percent of those who took them experienced any effects, which were mostly mild.

About one in four survey participants shared that they did not receive the treatment at all. Most said the drug distributor did not reach their household, they were unaware of the campaign, or they lived at a distance from distribution sites.

Sources of Campaign Awareness

Seventy-two percent of all respondents said they were aware of the campaign in advance. Most heard about it from barangay health workers, health staff, or teachers. Traditional media and printed materials were not commonly mentioned.

What Can Be Improved

The findings suggest that expanding the reach of drug distribution teams, improving communication about treatment safety, and strengthening local mobilization efforts could help boost coverage. Routine data reports would also benefit from regular quality checks to ensure accuracy and reliability.

For a copy of the full report or to explore how these insights can support your health programs, we would be glad to connect. Please reach out through our official contact page.