Predisposing factors for individuals' Lyme disease prevention practices: Connecticut, Maine, and Montana

Abstract

Objectives. This study examined factors that predispose individuals to protect against Lyme disease. Methods. Knowledge attitude and practice questions concerning Lyme disease prevention were included in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance survey in Connecticut, Maine, and Montana. A total of 4246 persons were interviewed. Results. Perceived risk of acquiring Lyme disease, knowing anyone with Lyme Disease, knowledge about Lyme disease, and believing Lyme disease to be a common problem were significantly associated with prevention practices. Conclusions. Predisposing factors differ substantially between states and appear related to disease incidence. Personal risk, knowing someone with LYme disease and cognizance about Lyme disease and acting on this information are consistent with social learning theories.