Maria Veronica S. Tesoro-Morales, Cliff Richard T. Mabasa, Melba C. Palcon, Cherylline V. Mendoza, Pedriluz Joy Love S. Gamas, Ester Q. Dela Cruz, Mildred T. Castillo, Marissa R. Nopre
ABSTRACT
Dengue fever remains a persistent public health concern in urban informal settlements, where environmental and socioeconomic conditions increase vulnerability despite ongoing prevention efforts. This study examined the relationship between demographic factors and dengue awareness, aftercare practices, and preventive behaviors among informal settlers in Binondo, Manila, and developed a nurse-led intervention program to address identified gaps. A descriptive–correlational design within a quantitative framework was employed, involving 100 respondents selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests (chi-square and t-test) with IBM SPSS Statistics 21. The findings revealed a low level of awareness (M = 2.28), contrasted with very high aftercare practices (M = 3.43) and high preventive behaviors (M = 2.77). Community-based practices, such as participation in clean-up drives and reporting mosquito breeding sites, were widely observed, while individual protective measures remained inconsistent. A significant relationship was found between gender and awareness (r = 0.201, p = 0.045), with males reporting higher awareness, whereas no significant associations were identified for age, education, or socio-economic status. These results suggest that shared community experiences influence dengue-related behaviors more than individual demographic characteristics. The study highlights the need for targeted and sustained health education that bridges knowledge and practice. The proposed Nurse-Led Dengue Awareness and Prevention Enhancement Program (NDAPEP) provides a context-responsive approach to improving awareness and reinforcing preventive behaviors through community engagement and nursing leadership.
Keywords: Dengue awareness; preventive practices; aftercare; informal settlers
https://doi.org/10.57180/mqaw8277