Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) about Hepatitis B and C among students of Hadhramout University, Al-Mukalla City, Yemen

Abstract

Background and Objective: hepatitis B (HBV) and C  (HCV) are blood-borne infectious diseases. They are one of the most common causes of end-stage liver disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The research, including nursing and medical laboratory students, is at a high risk of acquiring this infection. Aim of this study: to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices of the nursing and medical laboratory students about viral hepatitis B and C in Hadhramout University, Mukalla city, Yemen. Setting: the carried out in Mukalla city –Yemen. Design: survey research (cross sectional) design. Sample: Based on a stratified random sample of the academic levels 272 students was selected. Materials and Methods: The sample of the study consisted of 272 (males and females) students  in Hadhramout University. Parts of the study: data collected by using three tools: tool (a): student's knowledge regarding hepatitis (b): knowledge about attitude toward hepatitis disease. Tool (c): knowledge about practice of hepatitis. Results: regarding age groups of the study participants it found that the mean of participant's age (53.23 ± 8.35). Majority of participants had poor knowledge and practice about hepatitis B and C and its management. Also, the vast majority had negative attitude toward hepatitis. conclusion: this study found that participants had poor knowledge, attitude and practice toward hepatitis B and C. Recommendations: Continuous and repeated health education guide on hepatitis B and C. frequent workshops and seminars should be organized in order to provide up-to-date knowledge about HBV and HCV infection and means of prevention among Hadhramout university students.