NJOMACS

Effective public health communication is vital during health emergencies; however, persons with disabilities (PWDs) often face challenges that hinder their access to timely and accurate information, with gender potentially amplifying these disparities. The study, guided by the Health Belief Model and the Social Determinants of Health Framework, examines gender as a factor affecting access and responses to COVID-19 prevention messages among PWDs in Kaduna and Kano States, Nigeria. It utilised a quantitative cross-sectional survey design with a structured questionnaire and a purposive sampling technique. Of the 384 questionnaires distributed, 373 were valid and used for analysis. A 5-point Likert scale measured access and response variables, which were analysed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Results indicated that gender significantly correlated with behavioural responses but did not significantly influence access, pointing to gender-based differences in information exposure and compliance. The study concluded that gender plays a crucial role in health communication outcomes among PWDs. It recommended disability-inclusive and gender-responsive risk communication strategies informed by behavioural and structural frameworks to ensure equitable access to information during public health crises.