Knowledge attitude and practices of oral and personal hygiene to prevent communicable diseases among students in and around the city of Mangalore. An epidemiological survey

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: India is undergoing an epidemiologic, demo-graphic and health transition. The expectancy of life has increased, with consequent rise in degenerative diseases of aging and lifestyles. Nevertheless, communicable diseases are still dominant and constitute major public health issues. There are several factors associated with the control of communicable diseases, such as hygiene, sanitation and safe drinking water, which are interlinked. Inadequate sanitary conditions and poor hygiene practices play major roles in the increased burden of communicable diseases. Objectives: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the knowledge about communicable diseases and practices of proper hygiene measures, among school going children in and around Mangalore, Karnataka. Methodology: A survey was conducted among the students of an English and Kannada medium school using a basic questionnaire. Results: An overall lower percentile scores were obtained by children from Kannada medium school. Conclusion: There is a definite need for intense campaigns for the promotion of good oral and personal hygiene practices better aimed at the prevention of communicable diseases in local regional language medium schools in India.