Knowledge and Attitude about Radiation Hazards on Pregnant Women Among Non-Healthcare Students in Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA)

Abstract

Lack of awareness on radiation exposure during pregnancy in Malaysia can lead to a higher possibility of rejection from pregnant women to undergo an examination using ionizing radiation. This study aims to assess the general knowledge and attitude regarding radiation hazards on pregnant women among students at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). A cross-sectional study was conducted among non-healthcare students in UniSZA. A questionnaire was distributed online using Google Form to assess knowledge and attitude of radiation hazards on pregnant women. Descriptive statistics and Independent T-test were used to determine the knowledge and attitude of the respondents. A total of 120 students have participated in this study. Equal sample sizes are obtained with 60 male students and 60 female students. The total mean knowledge and attitude score for all students is 1.31 and 4.13 respectively. The mean knowledge of female students (M=24.27) (P < .05) was higher compared to male students (M=20.20) (P < .05). Mean attitude of female students (M=17.40) (P < .05) was higher compared to male students (M=15.65) (P < .05). Female students have higher knowledge and attitude towards radiation hazards on pregnancy compared to male students. Lack of knowledge and attitude on radiation hazards on pregnancy can give serious effects in the future. Continuous awareness campaigns on the benefits and risks of radiation must be held through various platforms to educate people regarding the radiation hazards on pregnant women.