Search Results (186)

Coyaima is a town in the department of Tolima, Colombia, that was prioritized in a pilot program under Colombia’s National Plan for the Control of the Taeniasis/Cysticercosis Complex, focusing on this neglected health issue. The project engaged local indigenous communities, promoting education and outreach within the One Health framework. The study included 444 randomly selected volunteers, who filled a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey on the taeniasis/cysticercosis complex. The baseline study found no Taenia spp. eggs via microscopy on 383 stool samples examined, and no T. solium DNA was detected on human stool and soil samples by Copro-qPCR. However, seroprevalence was 8.5% for human cysticercosis and 14% for porcine cysticercosis, as detected by in-house ELISA testing for T. solium. Moreover, 57.9% of participants who provided a stool sample were positive for at least one parasite. Following the sampling and characterization activities, local health workers implemented mass treatment with Niclosamide, based on evidence of ongoing transmission, high porcine seroprevalence, poor basic sanitation, and the presence of free-roaming pigs reported in the KAP survey. These findings provide scientific evidence to apply national public health policies for controlling taeniasis/cysticercosis complex in Coyaima. Full article

Introduction: Despite the key role of healthcare workers (HCWs) in tuberculosis (TB) prevention and control, there is a lack of regional data on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding the disease in Atlantic Canada. Objectives: To assess the KAPs of HCWs and identify targets for educational interventions to enhance TB care and control. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among HCWs in Atlantic Canada aged $\ge$19 years from October 2023 to February 2024. Participants were recruited via multiple channels such as social media, collegiate email lists, and snowball sampling. Survey data were collected using an online platform and analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics v29. KAPs were assessed using Likert-type scales and internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s alpha. Results: A total of 157 HCWs participated in this study (age range: 19 to 69 years); most were women (n = 145, 92%), born in Canada (n = 134, 85.4%), with nearly three-quarters (n = 115, 73.2%) who had never lived outside of Canada. Study participants demonstrated moderately high knowledge (M = 29.32, SD = 3.25) and positive attitudes (M = 3.87, SD = 0.37) towards TB and strong practices (M = 4.24, SD = 0.69) in TB care; however, gaps were identified in HCW abilities to recognize less common TB symptoms (e.g., rash and nausea), as well as inconsistent practices in ventilation and pre-treatment initiation. Internal consistency analysis indicated suboptimal reliability across all three KAP domains, with Cronbach’s alpha values falling below 0.7, thwarting further planned analyses. Conclusions: This study found overall moderate-to-strong TB-related KAPs among HCWs in Atlantic Canada; however, critical gaps in knowledge and practice were noted. This new information can now guide future educational initiatives and targeted training to enhance TB preparedness and ensure equitable care for patients in the region. Full article

Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is a tick-borne disease caused by Theileria equi, Theileria haneyi and Babesia caballi. It affects equids, representing significant health and economic concerns for the equine industry. EP is endemic in Portugal, so developing and implementing preventive strategies is essential. Accessing veterinarians’ knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) through a survey is a suitable approach, and no such studies have been conducted in Portugal until now. A KAP survey was applied to 41 Portuguese equine vets, representing mainly the Alentejo region. The average knowledge score went from medium to high, correctly identifying the causative agents, transmission routes and clinical signs. Knowledge gaps mostly concerned the identification of T. haneyi as an agent, transplacental transmission, duration of infection and diagnostic methods. Reported practices were appropriate overall, including enhancing breeders’ awareness of the disease and its prevention. Diagnostic and treatment protocols were generally consistent with current recommendations; however, these protocols are not yet fully standardized. Our findings highlight key areas where increasing expertise is needed and could serve as a foundation for future evidence-based guidelines to improve EP control in Portugal. Full article

Background: Antibiotic resistance (AMR) is a critical global and national health challenge, largely driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. Understanding the public′s knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use is essential for informing effective interventions. This study aimed to assess the levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) related to antibiotic use among adults in Saudi Arabia’s Western Region and to identify the demographic and behavioral determinants of these outcomes. Methods: A regional cross-sectional survey was conducted from March to June 2025 using a 40-item self-administered online questionnaire. Adults aged ≥ 18 years residing in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia were recruited via social media using snowball sampling. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were used to examine associations, while multivariate logistic regression was employed to identify determinants of high knowledge and good practices, presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Results: A total of 891 participants were included; most were female (63.6%) and aged 18–30 years (56.2%). Moderate knowledge of antibiotic use was observed in 54.0% of participants, while 30.8% had high knowledge. In terms of attitude and practice, 55.6% demonstrated good performance and 42.8% average performance. High knowledge was significantly associated with the female gender (aOR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.34–2.70), age of 41–50 years (aOR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.42–3.48), and a postgraduate education (aOR = 15.37; 95% CI: 1.84–128.13). Good practices were associated with the female gender (aOR = 2.32; 95% CI: 1.66–3.24) and being married (aOR = 1.99; 95% CI: 1.43–2.77). A moderate positive correlation was found between knowledge and practice scores (r = 0.406, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Significant variability in public KAP regarding antibiotic use was identified. Female gender, older age, and higher education were key determinants of better KAP. These findings emphasize the need for targeted educational strategies focusing on high-risk groups to support rational antibiotic use and mitigate antimicrobial resistance. Full article

The objective was to conduct a review and meta-analysis of questionnaire-based surveys of dengue knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and practices (KAP)s among the general public in Sri Lanka as no prior island-wide survey existed. The electronic database PubMed and other bibliography were searched for literature on dengue questionnaire-based KAP surveys in Sri Lanka from 2000–2023. Data pertaining to the three domains were extracted from sixteen eligible articles, pooled, and analyzed separately using random effect models. Meta-analyses of the three domains were performed using R version 3.6.3. The population surveyed (8955) was <0.045% of the total Sri Lankan population. The publication frequency increased over time and surveys were distributed in Colombo and suburbs 43.7% (7/16), Kandy 25% (4/16,) Gampaha 12.5% (2/16), and 6.3% (1/16) one each in Kurunegala, Matara, Batticaloa, and Jaffna. Knowledge on dengue transmission, vector breeding, and fever as a symptom was >80%, while on vector species, preferred feeding times, recurrence of dengue it was > 55% and on warning signs of severity it was 25%. Attitudes towards community participation in dengue prevention activities and knowledge of dengue risk factors (avoidance of aspirin and dark colored drinks) were poor, while practice of control measures (removal of water collecting receptacles, roof-gutter management) lacked regularity. Full article

Background/Objectives: Up to 25–70% of proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) prescriptions worldwide lack an evidence-based indication, exposing patients to avoidable adverse events and unnecessary costs. Community pharmacists (CPs) are well-equipped to curb the misuse of PPIs. This study aimed to quantify CPs’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) regarding PPIs in two high-use Middle-Eastern markets and determine how demographic and professional factors influence guideline-adherent PPI use. Bridging this gap is crucial to ensure pharmacists can promote rational PPI use, provide accurate patient counseling, and reduce the likelihood of adverse outcomes. Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was undertaken between May 2024 and July 2024 to investigate the KAPs of CPs in Egypt and Iraq toward PPI use. The self-developed thirty-item questionnaire (17 knowledge, 11 attitude, and 6 practice items) was piloted with 30 CPs. A sample size of 385 CPs was required based on an estimated 93,000 community pharmacists in Egypt and 22,120 in Iraq; however, to improve statistical power, we aimed to include >500 CPs. Results: A total of 527 CPs from Egypt and Iraq completed the survey. The total median scores for knowledge, attitude, and practice were 11 out of 17 (IQR: 9–16), 9 out of 11 (IQR: 6–12), and 5 out of 6 (IQR: 3–8), respectively. CPs with >20 years of experience and those who relied on clinical guidelines as a primary information source demonstrated a median knowledge score significantly higher than those with fewer years of experience (p = 0.001 and 0.028, respectively). There was a significant positive association between knowledge and attitude, knowledge and practice, and attitude and practice scores (coefficients: 0.832, 0.701, and 0.445, respectively). Conclusions: Although their attitudes and practices regarding PPI use were satisfactory, the knowledge of CPs about the judicious use of PPIs requires improvement. Thus, a call for action targeting their tailored education and training is necessary to address these knowledge gaps regarding PPIs identified, including PPI adverse-effect profiles, evidence-based indications, and deprescribing criteria, and to foster informed medication attitudes and practices. Such education and training can reinforce guideline adherence, enhance patient counseling skills, and ultimately reduce inappropriate PPI use. Full article

This study addresses the persistent issue of gender bias in project management by developing and validating a practical survey tool for monitoring gender-related perceptions within project implementation frameworks. Using a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) approach, a survey instrument was designed to assess awareness of gender equity policies, perceptions of inclusivity, and experiences related to sexual harassment (SASH) within project teams. The tool was piloted in a Horizon Europe project (Healthy Sailing), with responses collected from 66 participants (academics, maritime professionals, researchers, and government stakeholders). Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) revealed a five-factor structure explaining 72.29% of total variance, with the two dominant factors—Perceived Gender Bias and Organizational Safety—demonstrating excellent internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha > 0.90). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and bifactor modeling indicated areas for further refinement, with RMSEA values exceeding optimal thresholds. The results underscore the potential of the KAP-based tool to support gender-sensitive quality management practices in project-based environments, while highlighting the need for ongoing psychometric validation. The study contributes a novel, empirically grounded instrument for promoting inclusivity and equity in project management. Full article

Background: Influenza poses a significant threat to the health of Malaysians, particularly among the elderly population. It results in high levels of illness and mortality, becoming a financial burden on the government. Vaccination is widely recognised as the most effective measure for controlling the spread and impact of influenza. Objectives: This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding influenza and influenza vaccination among older adults attending primary healthcare centres in different states of Malaysia. Additionally, the study assessed the level of acceptance for a proposed free annual influenza vaccination program. Methods: A nationwide survey was conducted involving 672 older people aged 60 and above who visited nine primary healthcare centres in Malaysia. These centres were selected using proportionate to population size (PPS) sampling to ensure representation from each zone. Participants completed a validated self-reported questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the levels of KAP, and a binomial logistic regression model was used to determine the predictors of acceptance for the proposed free annual vaccination program. Results: Most participants displayed a strong understanding of influenza illness (74.0%) and the vaccine (65.9%). Moreover, 76.4% of respondents exhibited a positive attitude towards influenza vaccination. However, the prevalence of good vaccination practices was relatively low, with only 29.2% of participants having a history of previous vaccination, and just 55.2% of these consistently practicing annual vaccination. The group acceptance rate for the proposed free annual influenza vaccination was 62.3%. Significant predictors of acceptance included a history of previous vaccination (good practice) (OR = 6.438, 95% CI = 1.16–35.71, p < 0.001), a positive attitude towards vaccines (OR = 21.98, 95% CI = 5.44–88.87, p = 0.033), and a good level of knowledge about the influenza vaccine (OR = 0.149, 95% CI = 0.03–0.79, p = 0.026). Conclusions: Increasing the uptake of influenza vaccination among the older population in Malaysia remains a significant challenge. It is recommended that a targeted, free annual influenza vaccination program be implemented for high-risk populations, particularly those with comorbidities and those who have shown greater receptiveness. In addition, health education strategies aimed at raising awareness and understanding of influenza should be prioritised. Strengthening epidemiological data collection and establishing systematic monitoring mechanisms are also essential to support these efforts. Full article

This study explores gender perceptions and equity challenges within the maritime cruise industry, focusing specifically on crew experiences aboard European Union-flagged vessels. The research aims to evaluate the extent to which gender diversity, equality, and inclusion are perceived, practiced, and institutionalized onboard. A structured Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey was administered to the crew members across various departments and ranks, investigating perceptions of discrimination, career advancement, workplace safety, and the implementation of gender-sensitive policies. Results indicate persistent gender disparities, particularly in areas such as promotion opportunities, emotional burden, and reporting of harassment. While overall attitudes toward diversity appeared positive, a significant proportion of female respondents reported experiencing bias, isolation, and unequal treatment despite possessing equivalent qualifications. Statistical analysis, including Chi-square tests and Exploratory Factor Analysis, identified three dominant perception dimensions: structural bias, emotional strain, and safety concerns. A notable gap emerged between institutional policies and actual behaviours or trust in enforcement mechanisms. The authors contribute to the field by designing a context-specific KAP instrument, applying robust statistical methodologies, and offering actionable recommendations to maritime organizations. These include enhancing reporting systems, improving mentorship opportunities, and institutionalizing training on unconscious bias. This study provides empirical evidence to support policy reforms and cultural shifts aimed at fostering gender-inclusive environments onboard maritime cruise vessels. Full article

Background: Antibiotic resistance (AR) is a global public health crisis, largely driven by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward AR among non-medical university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and identify factors that influence antibiotic use. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 672 students from both public and private universities in Riyadh. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics and KAP regarding antibiotics. Results: The findings indicated that 59.1% of students had sufficient knowledge of antibiotics, while 60% had positive attitudes, and 60.6% exhibited responsible practices. However, 40.9% of students demonstrated insufficient knowledge, and factors such as age, gender, and field of study significantly impacted KAP outcomes. Females had 65.8% higher odds of demonstrating a positive attitude toward AR prevention, compared to males, and 52% higher odds of adopting appropriate practices than males. The primary source of information on antibiotics was healthcare professionals, particularly doctors. Conclusions: These findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance awareness and promote the responsible use of antibiotics among university students, helping to mitigate the threat of antibiotic resistance. Full article

Background: Health departments disseminate health education related to influenza to the public through various media in China. We examined knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding influenza and the influenza vaccine (KAP-flu) over time among pregnant women (PW) compared to non-PW. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Suzhou, China in 2013 and 2023. We included and interviewed PW seeking prenatal care and excluded PW there for non-routine visits. The comparison group was drawn from non-PW seeking physical examinations at the same facilities. Stratified cluster sampling was used to enroll participants from the various levels of prenatal-care facilities. Results: In 2013, we surveyed 1673 PW and 401 non-PW, and in 2023, we surveyed 2195 PW and 1171 non-PW. The proportion of PW who had ever heard of the influenza vaccine showed no significant change, at 56% in 2013 and 57% in 2023; by contrast, there was a significant increase among non-PW (55% to 78%). The proportion of pregnant participants who knew when to get vaccinated dropped from 14% to 12%, in contrast to the increase among non-PW (6% to 20%). The proportion of PW who believed that the influenza vaccine is effective dropped from 91% in 2013 to 76% in 2023, in contrast to the stable value among non-PW (84% to 82%). In 2023, pregnant participants exhibited lower levels of knowledge about both influenza disease and the influenza vaccine, along with less positive attitudes toward the effectiveness and safety of the vaccine. They also showed lower willingness to vaccinate and lower vaccination rates compared to non-pregnant participants. Concerning KAP-flu among PW, less than half recognized that influenza is different from a common cold; fewer than one in five understood the timing and frequency of vaccination or the policy prioritizing PW for influenza vaccination; vaccination coverage remained below 2% over time. Conclusions: PW had concerning gaps in knowledge and attitudes regarding influenza and the influenza vaccine compared to non-PW in Suzhou, China. Specific actions targeting PW, such as initiatives leveraging the maternal and child healthcare system, are warranted to reduce the gaps. Full article

Background: Respirators are essential for protecting healthcare personnel (HCPs) from airborne infections, and were particularly valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, knowledge gaps, attitudes, and perceived usability issues may hinder their proper use, especially in settings lacking formal respiratory protection programs. Objective: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices (KAP), and perceived usability of respirators among Thai healthcare personnel at a university hospital in Northern Thailand and identify differences across job roles. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among HCPs at a university hospital in Northern Thailand. Participants completed a validated questionnaire covering demographic data, KAP, and perceived usability of respirators. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze group differences. Results: A total of 479 valid responses were analyzed from physicians (31.7%), nurses (37.6%), and other HCPs (30.7%). Only around 12% of all participants correctly identified that surgical masks are not respirators, although over 90% correctly identified the nature of N95/KN95-type filtering facepiece respirators. Nurses demonstrated higher knowledge of respirator standards and proper use. Confidence and willingness to use industrial or reprocessed sterile respirators varied significantly by role (p < 0.05). Only 30.5% had received fit-testing. Perceived usability concerns included discomfort, heat, and breathability, reported across all groups. Conclusions: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to respirator use varied by professional role, with notable gaps in fit-testing and perceived usability. Findings highlight the need for targeted training, consistent fit-testing protocols, and improved respirator design for comfort to ensure effective respiratory protection in healthcare settings. Full article

Food safety is an important requirement for protecting human health worldwide. In particular, medical students’ education on food safety is essential for them as future physicians, and university education is the first step in acquiring this knowledge. We performed an online survey with 1277 respondents among medical students to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) related to food safety regarding microbiological contamination. Our findings showed that more than half of the respondents presented a low level of food safety knowledge, with a score between 11–60 points, and only 6% managed to score between 81 and 100 points, which was considered a high level of knowledge. On the contrary, we found that most participants had a high level of good practice: 58% scored more than 25 points, 39% had an average level of good practice (scoring between 21 and 25 points), and 3% of respondents had a low level of good practice (scoring below 21 points). We also noticed a statistically significant difference between total scores of preclinical and clinical years of study among medical students (p = 0.005) regarding food safety knowledge. The frequency of cooking was positively correlated with the level of food safety knowledge, but not with food safety practices. Our study shows that better knowledge on food safety is needed among medical students. Improving knowledge and awareness of food safety in relation to microbiological contamination is a good way to protect themselves and to promote the correct food safety knowledge and measures among their patients. Full article

Background/Objectives: Education on antibiotic use has the potential to positively shape the practices and perspectives of future professionals. Assessing awareness levels of antibiotic resistance among university students is, therefore, critical, as they represent a vital demographic capable of influencing public health outcomes, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Methods: This cross-sectional study employed the World Health Organization’s Antibiotic Resistance: Multi-Country Public Awareness Survey, which examines demographics, antibiotic use, knowledge, perspectives, and sources of information. A total of 922 surveys were collected from students across various disciplines at two universities in Greater Guayaquil. Results: Most participants reported obtaining antibiotics through healthcare professionals, adhering to proper usage instructions, and purchasing them primarily from pharmacies. However, only 56% of the responses were correct, with many students incorrectly associating antibiotic use with conditions where they are typically ineffective. Despite these gaps, the students expressed positive attitudes toward proposed measures to address antibiotic resistance. While the participants demonstrated familiarity with terms related to antibiotic resistance and identified doctors and educators as their main sources of information, educational campaigns were not widely recognized as important. Conclusions: These findings evidence knowledge gaps among an essential group, suggesting the need for targeted health programs, preventive strategies, and educational initiatives to combat misinformation regarding antimicrobial resistance. Full article

Background: Cochlear implants (CIs) are the gold standard intervention for severe-to-profound sensorineural hearing loss. Their success depends not only on technological advancements but also on the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of otolaryngologists responsible for patient selection, counselling, and postoperative management. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the KAP of otolaryngologists in the UAE towards CIs, identify gaps in training and decision-making, and assess adherence to global CI protocols. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered online questionnaire distributed to otolaryngologists across public and private healthcare institutions in the UAE. The survey assessed demographics, clinical knowledge, attitudes towards CIs, and clinical practices. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to assess the relationships among knowledge levels, referral frequency, and institutional factors. Results: A total of 31 otolaryngologists participated. While 74% demonstrated moderate-to-high knowledge of CIs, 39% had low awareness of national guidelines. Most (61%) strongly supported CI integration into treatment protocols, but financial and institutional barriers were frequently cited as challenges. Knowledge levels significantly correlated with referral frequency (p < 0.001), indicating a gap between awareness and practice. Conclusions: This is the first study in the UAE assessing otolaryngologists’ KAP regarding CIs. Despite favourable attitudes, limited guideline awareness, financial barriers, and inconsistent multidisciplinary collaboration remain challenges. Targeted clinician education, standardised CI guidelines aligned with international benchmarks, and improved funding mechanisms are essential to enhance CI accessibility and optimise patient outcomes in the region. Full article