Factors Influencing Acceptance of Ricinus communis L. Natural Larvicides

Abstract

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) remains a major public health challenge in Indonesia, particularly in Medan City, North Sumatra. As the effectiveness of chemical larvicides continues to decline, there is growing interest in natural, eco-friendly alternatives such as larvicides derived from castor seeds (Ricinus communis L.). This study aims to examine the factors influencing the acceptance of these natural larvicides among housewives in Medan City. A cross-sectional design was used, involving 844 respondents across 21 districts. The analysis was carried out in four stages: univariate analysis to describe respondent characteristics, chi-square tests for bivariate relationships, logistic regression for multivariate assessment, and spatial analysis to identify geographic patterns of larvicide acceptance. The findings reveal that demographic variables such as age, education, and dengue history do not significantly affect acceptance. However, the relationship between attitude and knowledge and the acceptance of dengue prevention measures statistically significant. In addition, attitude was the most dominant independent factor in predicting the acceptance of Ricinus communis L. natural larvicide as a measure to prevent dengue fever in logistic regression (OR = 3.624; p < 0.001). This indicates that internal readiness and positive perceptions play a crucial role in encouraging the acceptance of eco-friendly larvicide options.