Higher Knowledge Scores Research Articles

Nurses' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward chronic kidney disease in hemodialysis centers at Hail City, Saudi Arabia

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global issue with clinical, social, and economic impacts. It negatively affects quality of life and is linked to higher rates of illness and death. Nurses are crucial in the early detection and management of CKD. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses regarding CKD, and the factors influencing these aspects in hemodialysis centers in Hail City, Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional study was conducted from July to October 2022 using a self-administered questionnaire. This questionnaire assessed nurses’ knowledge of CKD, their attitudes toward it, and their CKD care practices. A significance level of p<0.05 was used for all tests. Approximately 63.06% of the nurses provided correct answers related to CKD knowledge. Most nurses (84.52%) had positive attitudes towards caring for CKD patients, and more than half (53.06%) had positive CKD care practices. There was a significant relationship between nurses’ knowledge scores and both “years of experience” and “received information regarding CKD care” (p=0.033 and p<0.001, respectively). Nurses with more experience and previous information had higher knowledge scores than those with less experience and no prior information. Additionally, nurses with more experience and previous information also had more positive attitudes toward CKD patients than those with less experience and no prior information (p=0.004 and p=0.008, respectively). Therefore, nurses with more experience and prior information about CKD care were more knowledgeable and had more positive attitudes towards CKD patients compared to those with less experience and no prior information.

Exploring Knowledge, Safety Practices, and Anxiety Level among Women of Reproductive Age During COVID-19 Outbreak: A Cross-Sectional Study.

The global outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and its consequences compromise the health of Women of Reproductive Age (WRA). The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, safety practices, and anxiety levels among WRA during COVID-19 outbreaks. A cross-sectional, correlational design was used to recruit a convenience sample of 453 WRA in Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using an electronic self-administered questionnaire of Spielberger state-trait anxiety and an adapted authors-developed knowledge and practices scale using an extensive literature review. Data were collected between September and December 2020 targeting all women in the country. Pearson correlation coefficient has been used to test correlation utilizing the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 25. The mean score of anxiety was 46.0 (13.40). Women have a high mean score of knowledge (24.50, standard deviation (SD) = 3.40) while having a low mean score of practices (19.70, SD = 3.10) indicating inappropriate practices. A significant difference was found in anxiety (t479 = 2.52, p = .012) and knowledge (t479 = -1.98, p = .048) between pregnant and non-pregnant women, while no statistically significant difference was found in relation to practices. The mean score of anxiety was higher among pregnant women than non-pregnant women, while a slightly higher mean score of knowledge was observed for non-pregnant women compared to pregnant ones. Although women had good knowledge about safety precautions, their practices did not indicate that. There is a need to educate women about safety practices and interventions that buffer their anxiety levels.

Correlation between Knowledge and Attitudes on Arsenic Contamination among Blood Clam (Anadara granosa) Sellers at Traditional Markets in North Surabaya

Background: Indonesia, with its vast coastline, has become a major exporter of seafood products, including clams, generating millions of dollars in revenue. However, clams are frequently associated with foodborne illnesses, due to the presence of hazardous marine pollutants like arsenic. Objective: This research examines the connection between the knowledge and attitudes of sellers, regarding arsenic contamination in blood clams sold at traditional markets in North Surabaya. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional method, collecting primary data through direct interviews and questionnaires from 35 blood clam sellers in North Surabaya, as well as secondary data from previous studies. Results: The data were analyzed using the chi-square test, which indicated that there is / was no significant correlation between the sellers' knowledge and attitudes (p > 0.001). Conclusion: Consequently, it can be concluded that there is a lack of association between the sellers' knowledge and attitudes toward arsenic contamination in blood clams sold at traditional markets in North Surabaya, as evidenced by the high attitude scores (related to healthy practices) but low knowledge scores in the questionnaire.

Telepharmacy in Indonesia: Navigating Knowledge, Perception, and Readiness Among 6,000 Pharmacists and Related Sociodemographic Determinants.

Introduction: Telepharmacy can improve the delivery of pharmaceutical care services to patients. However, there are limited data regarding the knowledge, perceptions, and readiness (KPR) for telepharmacy in Indonesia. In this cross-sectional survey study, we assessed KPR and associated factors among Indonesian pharmacists, aiming to implement telepharmacy services in the future. Methods: Eligible participants were recruited from all provinces of Indonesia through a 24-item instrument. KPR scores were classified as low, moderate, and high. Sociodemographic characteristics and KPR of participants were summarized using descriptive statistics. Bivariate/multivariate ordinal logistic regression analyses were conducted to identify independent determinants of KPR. An adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated for each determinant. Results: A total of 6,059 pharmacists provided responses. Overall, 58.28% had a high knowledge score, and 63.51% expressed moderate perceptions toward telepharmacy services. Moreover, 70.21% showed a moderate level of readiness. Gender (male; AOR: 1.21 [95% CI: 1.06-1.39]), stable internet access (AOR: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.64-0.86]), and central region (AOR: 1.13 [95% CI: 0.99-1.29]) were significantly associated with perception toward telepharmacy. Readiness was significantly associated with age (17-25 years; AOR: 0.73 [95% CI: (0.60-0.89]), gender (male; AOR: 0.83 [95% CI: 0.72-0.95]), stable internet access (AOR: 0.75 [95% CI: 0.64-0.89]), education level (master/doctoral; AOR: 1.33 [95% CI: 1.06-1.67]), and central region (AOR: 1.29 [95% CI: 1.12-1.49]). Interestingly, knowledge levels were not significantly correlated with specific factors. Conclusions: Participants demonstrated high knowledge, without significant influencing factors. However, they showed moderate perceptions and readiness levels, influenced by sociodemographic factors, including gender, age, education level, internet access, and regional disparities. Therefore, targeted interventions (e.g., telepharmacy training and regional outreach) are imperative to enhancing perceptions and readiness, fostering the effective integration of telepharmacy services, and advancing pharmaceutical care in Indonesia.

Analysing the association between perceived knowledge, and attitudes on Lassa Fever infections and mortality risk factors in lower Bambara Chiefdom

BackgroundLassa fever (LF) presents significant public health challenges in Sierra Leone, particularly in the Lower Bambara Chiefdom. This study aims to deeply understand how knowledge and attitudes towards LF correlate with community-driven prevention and control measures.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional quantitative approach was used to conduct the research. Data from 2167 participants were collected using an Android-based survey from 1st February 2022 to 14th February 2022. Respondents' knowledge of LF causes, risk factors, transmission modes, and preventive measures were evaluated through a multiple-choice questionnaire, and attitudes toward prevention and control were measured on a 5-point Likert scale. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0 and frequencies were presented in count, percentage, and table. Chi-square statistics were used to test for associations.ResultsAmong the 2167 participants, over half were males (1184, 54.60%), farmers (1406, 64.90%), married (monogamous) (1428, 65.90%), and had never attended school (1336, 61.70%). Respondents demonstrated high knowledge levels of LF across socio-demographic groups (33% to 100%) and shared a positive attitude towards prevention and control (mean score of 26.77 on a 5–40 scale). Educational level, religious beliefs, and occupational status significantly influenced LF knowledge (p < 0.05). Specifically, illiterates had a high knowledge score of 48.24%, while those with tertiary education had the highest score at 83.33%. Additionally, a Pearson correlation analysis revealed a positive linear relationship between the degree of knowledge and positive attitude towards LF infection and mortality risk factors (r = 0.090, p = 0.02).ConclusionHigh LF knowledge in Lower Bambara Chiefdom positively influences prevention attitudes. Education, religion, and occupation are key factors. Tailored interventions enhance public health efforts.

Exploring research engagement among nurses in a Magnet®-recognized cancer center: An analysis of knowledge, attitudes, practices, and influencing factors

ObjectiveDespite the significance of research in nursing practice and its role in enhancing the quality of life for cancer patients, nurses report limited opportunities to engage with research. Known barriers include limited organizational support, a lack of time, resources, and knowledgeable colleagues/mentors. The study aims to determine research knowledge, attitudes, and practices among cancer nurses and understand factors influencing nurses’ involvement in research. MethodsRegistered nurses responded to a cross-sectional questionnaire. Data were collected using a modified version of the Nursing Research Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices survey and the Barriers to Nurses’ Participation in Research Questionnaire. ResultsThree hundred and sixty-six nurses responded, of whom 15% had previously been involved in research. Nurses reported moderate to high research knowledge (μ= 1.72), attitudes (μ= 1.92), and practice (μ= 1.79) scores. The most common barriers to engagement with research included a lack of time (78.0%), lack of incentive or reward (61.4%), lack of knowledge or skills (54.2%), lack of training opportunities (51.4%), and lack of experienced nursing research mentors (44.8%). Holding a specialist, advanced practice, or administrative role, and a postgraduate qualification were associated with higher scores on the knowledge, attitudes and practice subscales. Previous experience of conducting research was associated with higher knowledge and attitudes scores. Previous experience of authoring a paper and submitting a grant were associated with higher knowledge scores. ConclusionsThe study reveals a moderate–to-high level of knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding research among nurses, but low engagement. Barriers include lack of time, incentive, knowledge, training, and mentorship. Nevertheless, attitude scores, reflecting nurses’ willingness to engage in research were high on average. The findings highlight the potentially modifiable nature of barriers to research engagement. Increasing capacity for nursing research may be achieved through investment in research support and training to overcome barriers to research, which may discourage nurses engagement.

A Cross-Sectional Study of COVID-19 Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Among Black Communities in the Greater Toronto Area.

COVID-19 preventative practices such as hand washing, social distancing, and mask wearing have been identified as ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19. However, social determinants can play a role in the ability of individuals and groups to adhere to recommended COVID-19 preventative practices. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to explore the COVID-19 knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs), and information sources used in the adult Black population within the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). An online questionnaire was completed by Black adults living in the GTA. Associations between KAPs, health literacy, and sociodemographic variables were assessed using descriptive tests. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to examine predictors of high preventative practices. Of the 169 respondents, most had high knowledge scores (80.5%), low attitudes (85.2%), and high COVID-19 preventative practices (82.2%). Hotspot status, working from home, and high health literacy were found to be independent predictors of high preventative practices. This study provides new knowledge that advances understanding of the COVID-19 KAPs of Black communities in a Canadian context. Our findings point to the inadequacy of current prevention strategies that focus narrowly on individual actions while overlooking the importance of systemic influences on health.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices about air pollution and its health effects in 6th to 11th-grade students in Colombia: a cross-sectional study.

Globally, air pollution is the leading environmental cause of disease and premature death. Raising awareness through environmental education and adequate communication on air quality could reduce the adverse effects. We aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding air pollution and health and determine the factors associated with these KAP in children and adolescents. In 2019-2020, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 6th-11th grade high school students in five municipalities in Colombia. Variables collected included: age, sex, private or public school, any medical history, emergency room visits due to respiratory symptoms in the last year, and whether students played sports. The main exposure was the School Environmental Project. The outcomes were the KAP scale [0% (the lowest score) to 100% (the highest score)]. The factors associated with KAP levels were evaluated with independent mixed regressions due to the multilevel structure of the study (level 1: student; level 2: school), and the exponential coefficients (95% confidence interval-CI) were reported. Among 1,676 students included, 53.8% were females. The median knowledge score about air pollution and its health effects was 33.8% (IQR: 24.0-44.9), 38.6% knew the air quality index, 30.9% knew the air quality alerts that occurred twice a year in these municipalities and 5.3% had high self-perceived knowledge. Positive attitudes, pro-environmental practices, being female, grade level, attending a private school, having respiratory diseases, and the school environmental project importance were associated with higher knowledge scores. The median attitudes score was 78.6% (IQR: 71.4-92.9). Pro-environmental attitudes were associated with knowledge-increasing, being female, attending a private school, and the school environmental project. The median pro-environmental practices score was 28.6% (IQR: 28.6-42.9). During air quality alerts, 11.6% had worn masks, 19% had reduced the opening time of windows and 15.9% avoided leaving home. Pro-environmental practices were associated with knowledge-increasing and attitudes-increasing, and lower practices with higher grade levels, visiting a doctor in the last year, and practicing sports. Children and adolescents have low knowledge scores and inadequate pro-environmental practices scores regarding air pollution. However, they demonstrate positive attitudes towards alternative solutions and express important concerns about the planet's future.

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding air pollution and health effects among general people: A multi-divisional cross-sectional study in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with more than one-third of its people living in cities, and its air quality is among the worst in the world. The present study aimed to measure knowledge, attitudes and practice (KAP) towards air pollution and health effects among the general population living in the large cities in Bangladesh. A cross-sectional e-survey was conducted between May and July 2022 among eight divisions in Bangladesh. A convenience sampling technique was utilized to recruit a total of 1,603 participants (55.58% males; mean age: 23.84 ± 5.93 years). A semi-structured questionnaire including informed consent, socio-demographic information, as well as questions regarding knowledge (11-item), attitudes (7-item) and practice (11-item) towards air pollution, was used to conduct the survey. All analyses (descriptive statistics and regression analyses) were performed using STATA (Version 15.0) and SPSS (Version 26.0). The mean scores of the knowledge, attitudes, and practice were 8.51 ± 2.01 (out of 11), 19.24 ± 1.56 (out of 21), and 12.65 ±5.93 (out of 22), respectively. The higher scores of knowledge, attitudes, and practice were significantly associated with several socio-demographic factors, including educational qualification, family type, residential division, cooking fuel type, etc. The present study found a fair level of knowledge and attitudes towards air pollution; however, the level of practice is not particularly noteworthy. The finding suggests the need to create more awareness among the general population to increase healthy practice to reduce the health effects of air pollution.

Knowledge of genetics and attitudes toward genetic testing among university students in Indonesia.

The development in human genetics must be tracked with the knowledge to provide support and positive attitudes towards genetic research and its healthcare applications, including genetic testing. Unfortunately, there has been a delay in enacting public policies related to the genetics professionals as well as the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of genetic diseases in Indonesia. This research was conducted to build an overview of genetic knowledge and public attitudes toward genetic testing among Indonesian undergraduates. This cross-sectional study involved undergraduate students selected using the convenience sampling method. The questionnaire consisted of two parts: a true/false questionnaire (16 statements) regarding knowledge of genetics and a 5-points Likert scale questionnaire (27 statements) pertaining to attitudes towards genetic testing. A total of 1596 undergraduate students completed online questionnaire. The highest knowledge score and the most positive overall attitudes were observed in the healthcare-related majors compared to those who studied science and technology and social and humanity. A weak positive correlation was observed between knowledge and attitude toward genetic testing (Pearson's r = 0.206, p < 0.001). Undergraduate students from healthcare-related majors displayed better in both knowledge of genetics and had more positive attitudes toward genetic testing.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of human papillomavirus and self-sampling among adult women: a cross-sectional study.

This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of human papillomavirus (HPV) and self-sampling among adult women. The cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study included adult women at Shanghai Pudong Hospital from October 14, 2022, to March 31, 2023. The questionnaire contained demographic information, knowledge, attitude and practice dimensions. Factors associated with KAP and self-sampling were identified by multivariate logistic regression. A total of 1843 valid questionnaires were collected. The average knowledge, attitude, and practice score was 10.09 ± 5.60, 26.76 ± 3.80, and 6.24 ± 2.20, respectively. Urban residents (estimate = 0.705, p < 0.001), suburban residents (estimate = 0.512, p < 0.001), as well as individuals with undergraduate degrees and higher (estimate = 0.535, p < 0.001), were associated with good knowledge, while individuals lacking a history of HPV infection (estimate = -0.461, p < 0.001) and married individuals (estimate = -0.185, p < 0.001) were less likely to have good knowledge. Higher knowledge scores (estimate = 0.087, p < 0.001) and individuals with undergraduate education and above (estimate = 1.570, p < 0.001) were associated with a positive attitude. Being married (estimate = 0.291, p = 0.049) was associated with good practice, whereas not engaging in sexual activity (estimate = -0.959, p < 0.001) or lacking a history of HPV infection (estimate = -0.499, p = 0.011) were associated with unfavorable practices. Minorities (OR = 2.787, p = 0.038) and individuals with multiple sexual partners (OR = 2.297 for two partners, OR = 2.767 for three or more partners, p = 0.020 and p = 0.022) were positively associated with self-sampling. However, higher knowledge (OR = 0.952, p = 0.026) and attitude scores (OR = 0.929, p = 0.015) were negatively associated with self-sampling. Demographic and behavioral factors significantly influenced KAP scores and self-sampling behaviors regarding HPV. Urban residency, higher education levels, positive attitudes, and minority status correlated with favorable outcomes, while factors like marriage and lack of sexual activity were associated with less favorable practices.

Knowledge of the health personnel involved in the fluoride varnish therapy programs of primary schools in Tehran, Iran

IntroductionThe World Health Organization (WHO) places great importance on oral health promotion programs in schools, given that approximately one billion people worldwide are students. This demographic not only includes the students themselves, but also extends to school staff, their families, and the broader community, all of whom are interconnected. The objectives of this study were firstly to assess the knowledge of health personnel conducting fluoride varnish treatment (FVT) in schools, and secondly to solicit their views on the effectiveness of their training methods.MethodsData was collected from health personnel involved in FVT in schools, supervised by medical universities in Tehran province, using a questionnaire. The questionnaire was divided into four sections: demographic information, methods of receiving FVT training, respondents’ knowledge regarding FVT, and opinions about the effectiveness of FVT training methods. The questionnaire was distributed via social media, phone conversations, and email. The collected data was analyzed using Mann-Whitney in SPSS Version 26. A regression model was also fitted to the data.ResultsThe present study included 403 participants. Among various educational methods, it was found that participation in previous workshops (P = 0.001) and FVT workshops (P = 0.013) was significantly correlated with a higher FVT knowledge score. Additionally, participation in previous oral health promotion programs was significantly associated with a higher knowledge score (P < 0.05). Therefore, a history of participating in previous health promotion programs significantly contributed to the participants’ knowledge.ConclusionParticipation in previous oral health programs was found to be significantly correlated with a higher knowledge score. The effectiveness of training programs can be attributed to participation in previous workshops and FVT workshops. This study provided insights into potential strategies for enhancing personnel training in national oral health programs.

Evaluation of Childhood Allergy Risk Among Pregnant Women in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Thailand.

This study aims to evaluate the prevalence of pregnant women whose children are at higher risk for childhood allergies and to assess knowledge of risk assessment and prevention strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 310 pregnant women in an antenatal care clinic at a tertiary care hospital in Thailand. In addition to baseline demographic and obstetric characteristics, all participating pregnant women were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding risk evaluation and knowledge of childhood allergies on various topics. A childhood allergy risk assessment was evaluated based on the history of allergy disease in immediate family members. The questionnaire on knowledge was derived from a guideline issued by the Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Association of Thailand, with possible scores of 0-30. The mean maternal age was 30.6 years, and 139 (44.8%) were nulliparous. Overall, 86 couples (27.7%) were at high risk for childhood allergies. The mean total knowledge score was 15.2 out of 30, and only 24 women (7.7%) had an overall score of >20, and 40 women (12.9%) had an overall score of ≤10. The mean knowledge score for almost every subtopic was less than half of the possible points, except for the risk reduction strategies during pregnancy. Comparisons between those with higher and lower scores (≥16 vs. ≤15 points) showed that women with higher knowledge scores were significantly more likely to have had a previous child with an allergy (p=0.010). The prevalence of pregnant women whose children were at higher risk for childhood allergies was 27.7% (86 of 310 couples). The women had limited knowledge of childhood allergies with regard to risk assessment, risk reduction strategies, and various interventions. The only factor associated with a higher knowledge score was having a previous child with an allergy.

A healthy lifestyle of students is a resource for preserving the health of the working-age population in the near future

The issues of acceptance and support of a healthy lifestyle by various social and age groups of the population, especially among the younger generation and youth, through the pursuit of physical, mental and social well-being remain relevant. Educational organizations, including universities, are important actors in this direction, since their students will soon become leaders in society, decision makers, as well as parents of tomorrow. According to scientists, a weak attitude towards sports, lack of time for physical education lead to a vicious circle of focusing on intellectual education, high knowledge scores, low physical abilities and physical fitness. It is emphasized that universities should have organizational systems for managing educational materials, teaching staff, as well as technologies to improve learning processes through a technology platform. Universities are strategic places to launch a wellness campaign and «have conversations» about healthy lifestyles and sustainable development.

Evaluating community pharmacists awareness, perception and roles in providing emergency contraceptives in Jordan

ObjectiveThis cross-sectional study aimed to assess Jordanian community pharmacists' awareness, perception, and roles concerning emergency contraceptives provision. Study designWe administered a structured questionnaire to community pharmacists in Jordan using convenience sampling. The questionnaire included sections on demographic information, knowledge about emergency contraceptives, perception towards emergency contraceptive, and prior experience in emergency contraceptives provision. ResultsA total of 299 community pharmacists responded to the study. Most pharmacists had a Pharm D/BPharm degree (94.6%) and worked in independent community pharmacies (75.6%). While pharmacists demonstrated relatively high knowledge scores regarding emergency contraception, with a median score of 10 out of 14, misconceptions persisted, particularly regarding the mechanism of action and side effects of emergency contraception. Pharmacists expressed mixed perceptions regarding emergency contraception, with a significant proportion advocating for prescription-only access (76.6%) and expressing ethical reservations (48.2%). Only 38.1% reported prior experience in emergency contraceptives provision. Regression analyses revealed that attendance at emergency contraceptives-focused workshops significantly increased the likelihood of pharmacists providing emergency contraceptives (Adjusted Odds Ratio=2.569, p = 0.001). ConclusionsJordanian community pharmacists exhibit readiness to provide emergency contraceptives, but persistent misconceptions and regulatory barriers hinder optimal provision. Targeted educational interventions, particularly through workshops, are crucial in enhancing pharmacists' knowledge and promoting emergency contraceptives provision. ImplicationsResponding pharmacists often reported the misconception that emergency contraceptives can cause abortion. Also, some pharmacists expressed religious or moral objections to prescribing oral emergency contraceptives. Thus, this study underscores the importance of receiving comprehensive training on ethical and religious considerations in healthcare practice.

Human papillomavirus vaccine beliefs and intentions Post-COVID-19 vaccine release among mothers in Alabama

PurposeThe current study sought to determine if the release of COVID-19 vaccines influenced Alabama mothers’ attitudes and behaviors regarding HPV vaccination of their adolescent children. MethodsA social media survey was conducted August − September 2022 among mothers of adolescents ages 9–18, who self-identified as Alabama residents and their child(ren)’s primary medical decision maker. The survey assessed demographics, vaccine knowledge and opinions, vaccination history, influences on vaccination decisions, and how COVID-19 vaccine release affected vaccine opinions. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted. ResultsOf 241 responses, most participants were white (82.0 %, n = 196), non-Hispanic (96.6 %, n = 230), and privately insured (64.5 %, n = 151), with annual household incomes ≥$61,000 (45.4 %, n = 103). The majority (60.8 %) reported that their child either had or planned to receive the HPV vaccine. The release of COVID-19 vaccines did not change the majority of parental opinions towards HPV, with 78.5 % (n = 161) reporting no change. Among those who experienced a change, 25 % (n = 5) reported an increased likelihood of having their child vaccinated for HPV and 75 % (n = 15) reported a decrease in likelihood. Moderate and high HPV knowledge scores were associated in multivariable analysis with increased likelihood of having their child vaccinated for HPV (“moderate” knowledge AOR: 12.4, 95 % CI: 1.98–78.1; “high” knowledge AOR: 12.8, 95 % CI: 2.00–82.1). Positive HPV opinion scores in the univariable analysis similarly showed increased odds (AOR = 1.5). ConclusionsThese findings indicate that, in this population, COVID-19 vaccine release did not significantly impact subsequent HPV vaccination decision making. Parental perceptions regarding vaccination are critical to informing future interventions.

Survey of knowledge and practices of dengue fever prevention related to sociodemographic status: community-based study in Bandung, Indonesia

Dengue fever has become an endemic in the Bandung city and this disease poses a serious public health threat. This study aimed to examine sociodemographic factors, experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever and their relationship with knowledge and practice of prevention dengue fever among the Bandung City community. This research was considered as a cross-sectional and community-based study. Systematic random sampling was performed, where one participant in every third house that researchers passed by was chosen. Participants involved in this study had met the inclusion criteria, namely age (18 years), local residents, and able to understand the questions. Data was collected using a questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and multivariate logistic regression. Multivariate test results showed high knowledge scores in participants aged over 40 years (OR=30.908, 95% CI 16.490-57.930, P=0.000), participants who had an educational degree (OR=4.028, 95% CI 2.226-7.288, P =0.000), worked as private employees and self-employed (OR=0.235, 95% CI 0.098-0.560, P=0.001 and OR= 0.262, 95% CI 0.107-0.638, P=0.003), had an income of more than IDR 4,000,000 (OR=2.275, 95% CI 1.318-3.928, P=0.003), and had experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever (OR=3.140, 95% CI 1.484-6.640, P=0.003). Meanwhile, dengue fever prevention practice scores were higher in participants aged 25-39 years (OR=18.163, 95% CI 16, 8.056-40.947, P=0.000), who had an educational degree (OR=6.217, 95% CI 3.793-10.191, P =0.000), worked as a housewife (OR=0.286, 95% CI 0.129-0.634, P=0.002), had experience of dengue hemorrhagic fever (OR=0.271, 95% CI 0.144-0.510, P=0.023), and had a high knowledge score (OR=4.037, 95% CI 2.201-7.406, P=0.000). Dengue fever prevention practices are closely related to knowledge scores; therefore, dengue fever prevention puts up the focus to increasing knowledge and effective education programs

Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) among older individuals of rural Bangladesh: findings from a face-to-face interview

IntroductionCardiovascular diseases (CVDs) stand as the foremost contributor to global mortality, claiming roughly 17.9 million lives each year, constituting 32.1% of total fatalities. Their impact is notably profound in economies such as Bangladesh, exacting a substantial economic burden. Consequently, grasping the landscape of knowledge, attitudes, and practices is essential for timely identification and prevention strategies.MethodsThis cross-sectional study, carried out between January and May 2023 in the rural regions of Zirani, Savar Upazila, Dhaka, Bangladesh, utilized convenient sampling and conducted face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire. It encompassed socio-demographic factors, as well as knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning CVDs. Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and regression analyses, utilizing both the R programming language and SPSS (Version 26).ResultA total of 424 participants aged 60 years and above were included. The majority were male (60.8%), and the mean age was 71.21 ± 9.21 years, 57.3% were between 60 and 70 years old. Factors such as education, monthly family income, high blood pressure, diabetes, and non-smoking. Were significantly associated with higher knowledge, attitudes and practices scores.ConclusionThis study illuminates CVD-related KAP among rural Older Individuals in Bangladesh, revealing significant associations between factors such as education, monthly family income, high blood pressure, and non-smoking, with higher scores in knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding cardiovascular health. These insights underscore the importance of addressing socio-economic factors and health behaviors in developing targeted interventions for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases in this demographic.

Heated tobacco products- well known or well understood? A national cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitudes and usage in Pakistan

BackgroundHeated tobacco products (HTPs) are reshaping the tobacco industry and just recently, a plan was sought to regularize HTPs in Pakistan. Pakistan provides an intriguing case study in this context, as tobacco use is deeply ingrained in public use. To ensure that future evidence-based policy recommendations are grounded in the public’s knowledge, attitudes, and usage of HTPs, a nationwide survey must be conducted.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted using an online-based questionnaire nationwide in Pakistan. The questionnaire was validated and distributed through convenience sampling. The questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and usage of HTPs. Descriptive statistics was used to describe participants’ response and linear regression was performed at a p-value of < 0.05 using SPSS version 26.ResultsIn our sample of 1195 respondents (mean age of 33 years, 41.8% males and 58.2% females), 54.7% had previously heard about HTPs and 16.9% reported using HTPs at least once. Additionally, 38.24% were unsure of the legality of HTP use. Those with monthly household incomes of PKR 100,000 to 500,000, were more likely to have higher knowledge scores (OR:1.80[1.07–3.04]). On the other hand, males (OR:0.70 [0.55–0.89]) and respondents from Balochistan (OR:0.40 [0.22–0.71]) were more likely to have lower knowledge scores. The strongest motivators were the enjoyability of HTPs (55.73%) and usage as a cigarette alternative (54.64%), while the strongest deterrents were the negative health effects (82.68%) and potential for addiction (81.01%).ConclusionOur study underscores the need for awareness campaigns and interventions concerning HTPs, given prevalent preconceived notions and mixed attitudes among respondents. It was found that women and households with higher incomes scored higher on knowledge. Subjective enjoyment and a substitute for cigarettes were important motivators, but the most mentioned deterrents were the possibility of addiction and the detrimental effects on health. These insights form the basis for informed policy making for non-cigarette tobacco products.

EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND FACTORS RELATED TO ENTREPRENEURSHIP OF YOUNG PHARMACISTS IN THE MEKONG DELTA IN 2023

Background: The term “Entrepreneurship” refers to innovative, high-risk, and rapidly expanding business ventures that frequently need a substantial cash source. Most of the initial funding comes from individual savings or family’s financial support. The process of becoming an entrepreneur starts with identifying an opportunity and ends with creating a plan to take advantage of it. However, it has never been straightforward or simple to start a firm, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. In order to initiate and maintain a profitable business, pharmacists must train themselves with business startup expertise. Objectives: To evaluate the knowledge and factors affecting the entrepreneurship of young pharmacists in the Mekong Delta from May 2023 to November 2023. Material and methods: To ascertain the viewpoints of 815 young pharmacists aged from 20 to under 40, this study used a cross-sectional descriptive design and conducted interviews with them, basing on the features of the research item, obtaining knowledge about entrepreneurship and identify some relevant elements. Results: Women made up 69.1% of the young pharmacist workforce, including the majority of college pharmacists (46.5%), university pharmacists (43.1%), and those with master or doctoral degrees (10.4%). 80% were familiar with entrepreneurship, and 90.1% believed that, in order to launch a successful business, entrepreneurs had to have a thorough understanding of the industry in which they planned to operate. 77.8% had high knowledge scores. Regard the total of knowledge scores by characteristics groups, it has been clearly seen in the study that the gender, economic, and educational variables had an impact on general knowledge (p&lt;0.05); in which the college pharmacist category (429.76), along with the rich and the well-off (429.76) had the highest average rankings among the characteristic categories. Conclusions: The majority of young pharmacists in the Mekong Delta were aware of and fairly knowledgeable about entrepreneurship.