Articles

Barriers and Facilitators to Cervical Cancer vaccination Among Young Females in Chennai: A Cross-Sectional KAP Study

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Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of human papilloma virus (HPV). It is one of the most common cancers in women, especially in low- and middle-income countries. While most HPV infections resolve naturally, some persist and can lead to cervical cancer over time.

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of young women in Chennai regarding cervical cancer, screening, and prevention, and to identify barriers and facilitators influencing participation in screening programs.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to May 2024 among 222 young females, aged 13 and above.. A semi-structured questionnaire assessed their KAP towards cervical cancer. Responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Bloom’s taxonomy was applied to categorize knowledge and attitude. Chi-square tests were used to determine statistical significance, with a p-value < 0.05.

Results: Although 78.2% of participants were aware of cervical cancer, knowledge of preventive measures was low—only 25.2% knew about the HPV vaccine, and 44% understood the correct Pap test frequency. Attitudes toward screening were mostly positive, with 73.2% agreeing that free screening reduces cervical cancer risk. However, actual preventive practices were limited—only 9% had undergone a Pap smear, and 10% had received the HPV vaccine. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in KAP between groups (p > 0.05), except for medical students, who demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels.

Conclusion: Despite positive attitudes toward cervical cancer screening, there were notable gaps in knowledge and preventive practices among young women in Chennai. The findings underscore the need for targeted educational interventions, particularly on HPV vaccination and routine screening, to bridge these gaps.

Gender Norms, Attitudes and Perceptions towards Male Involvement in Maternal Health in Kafue District, Lusaka

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Male involvement in maternal health remains a major issue despite efforts by the international community. Despite the many benefits of male involvement in antenatal care there has been an observed low participation. Community gender norms, attitudes and perceptions towards male involvement in maternal health may affect the utilization of services offered by health facilities. The gap observed in many studies is that the attitude and perception of men regarding maternal health have largely been neglected. Therefore, this study sought to investigate the gender norms, attitudes and perceptions towards male involvement in maternal health in Kafue district of Zambia. The study adopted a descriptive research design. Both quantitative and qualitative paradigms were utilized in this study. A sample of 150 participants was used. Data was collected by the help of questionnaire and in-depth interviews.

Results showed that respondents from Kafue were knowledgeable on antenatal care. Additionally, it was also revealed that respondents had a positive attitude towards male involvement in maternal health. However, due to gender norms their roles were limited when it came to delivery and child care. Nevertheless, the findings showed that men were involved in supporting their wives and helping out with house chores and providing money for antenatal care, skilled birth at a hospital, postnatal care, childcare and any necessities required for delivery. Men who were married were more likely to be involved in maternal health than men who were not married. The study also revealed that men were not comfortable with discussing their wives’ pregnancy with a health care provider due to lack of privacy. Findings suggested that there were many factors affecting male involvement in maternal health. Lack of messages and programs targeting men, health stuff attitude during delivery, gender norms such as men not being allowed to attend to women when in labor and hospital infrastructure were identified by the respondents as a cause to low male involvement. In this study, it was also revealed that men and women had a positive perception towards pregnancy being a shared responsibility, men supporting and caring for their wives during and after delivery. However, both men and women had a negative perception towards men’s presence in the delivery ward.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices (KAP) in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) Among Selected Asian Countries: A Literature Review

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: This literature review examines the landscape of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) in selected Asian countries, focusing on knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among healthcare professionals and the general population. Drawing insights from studies conducted in Bangladesh, Iran, Malaysia, Thailand, Nepal, Oman, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the Philippines, the review highlights the increasing interest in CAM as a holistic approach to health and well-being. While positive attitudes towards CAM are prevalent, challenges such as knowledge gaps, concerns about evidence, and limited integration into clinical care persist. The review underscores the importance of education, research, and policy interventions to promote the safe and effective use of CAM, enhance healthcare quality, and meet the diverse healthcare needs of populations in the region. Recommendations include investing in educational programs, supporting research initiatives, and raising public awareness to advance healthcare systems’ capacity in integrating CAM practices effectively.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs about Vaccination as Perceived By Rural Residents in Surigao City

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This descriptive quantitative research assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs on vaccination among the residents within the rurality of Barangay Rizal, Surigao City. The study used a validated researcher-made survey questionnaire that was also tested for reliability to ascertain the intended quantitative data. The respondents were selected through the purposive and quota sampling technique considering 100 maximum rural residents as respondents of the study. The frequency count and percentage revealed that most of the respondents were 18-24 years old, mostly female, mostly single, had achieved college level, and earning less than 9,100 pesos. Frequency Count, Mean, and Standard Deviation also revealed that most of the rural residents are less knowledgeable and have moderate levels of attitudes and beliefs about vaccination. The Analysis of Variance (AnOVa) and Pearson r revealed no significant associations between the residents’ profiles and the knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about vaccination. Likewise, there was also no association and relationships between knowledge and attitudes and between attitudes and beliefs. Notably, there was a relationship between the residents’ knowledge and beliefs about vaccination. The study provided a broad overview of rural residents’ sentiments towards vaccination as well. It’s crucial to educate residents about the vaccine development process to address their concerns. They are cautious by observing the side effects of the vaccines before getting vaccinated. Barangay Health Workers should conduct stronger orientations or symposiums for the rural residents. Proper health education should be disseminated among these people through seminars or symposiums. Lastly, the staff or nurses of the rural health centers must provide accurate information and strengthen any advertisements or IEC materials for the wide dissemination of information. By providing brochures to provide clear and accurate information about vaccines.

 

Vaccination and Immunization as Perceived by Badjao Parents in Surigao City, Philippines

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Health authorities in the Philippines are tackling emerging infectious diseases among Filipino children by implementing precautionary measures, with a focus on strengthening immune systems. The cornerstone of their efforts is the 40-year-old Expanded Immunization Program (EPI), a key initiative by the Department of Health. This descriptive quantitative study aimed to inspire provision for Filipino children with safe vaccinations, addressing diseases like measles, diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough. The EPI has significantly reduced death and morbidity rates associated with preventable diseases. This study delves into the knowledge, attitudes, beliefs, and confidence among Badjao parents in Barangay Canlanipa, Surigao City, regarding children’s vaccination and immunization. The methodology included the utilization of researcher-made questionnaires and statistical tools such as the Frequency Count and Percentage, Mean and Standard Deviation, and Chi-Square Test. The study highlighted that despite challenges such as limited education and socioeconomic factors, many Badjao parents prioritized their children’s vaccination and immunization. However, the study revealed disparities in knowledge and confidence levels, emphasizing the need for targeted information campaigns. The study recommends targeted programs to promote the EPI’s benefits among the Badjao community and urges health authorities to conduct information drives. It also suggests exploring how personal experiences, like family illnesses, affect vaccination decisions. The study ultimately provides valuable insights for local stakeholders, healthcare providers, and future researchers, highlighting the importance of vaccination and immunization for children’s health.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs of Paulinian College Students about Diabetes

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The main purpose of the study was to evaluate the degree of knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs of Paulinian college students on diabetes for appropriate plans and interventions. The participants were 218 Paulinian college students at St. Paul University Surigao during the academic year 2022-2023. The study employed a quantitative descriptive research design involving the use of a researcher-made survey questionnaire that underwent validation and pilot testing. The data gathered were analyzed and treated by using the following descriptive statistical tools: frequency count and percentage distribution, mean and standard deviation, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and Shapiro-Wilk test. Results showed that the college students had a significant degree of difference in the level of respondent’s attitudes and beliefs on Diabetes based on behavior formation and belief generation when grouped according to age, sex, and socio-economic status. Students had significant differences in their attitudes and beliefs when grouped as to their knowledge as there was found to be a correlation between attitudes and beliefs. Generally, the findings showed that there is a significant degree of difference in the level of respondent’s knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs. It was recommended to provide an action plan as a health education strategy according to their knowledge about Diabetes for a continuum favorable attitude of students and change their beliefs on a more scientific approach and analyze deeply the misconceptions regarding the disease.