Knowledge and practice related to trachoma among children in Vietnam: a cross-sectional study
Khandekar, R.; Bullard, M.; Thanh, T.Thi.Kim.; Binh, T.Quoc.
Journal of Health Communication 9(1): 77-83
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 1081-0730 PMID: 14761835 DOI: 10.1080/10810730490271629Document Number: 233356
This cross-sectional, descriptive survey was conducted to determine the magnitude and determinants of knowledge and practice in relation to trachoma among children in Vietnam. Interviews were conducted with 358 children (aged 6-15 years) living in three districts of northern Vietnam using a closed-ended questionnaire . Responses related to causes, prevention methods, consequences, and observed preventive practices were standardized. Knowledge about causes of trachoma and prevention methods was assessed as "excellent" in 61.1% and 69.4% of girls and boys, respectively. Mode of transmission and consequences of trachoma were very well known to 68.7% and 57.7% of girls and boys, respectively. Trachoma control practice was excellent in 54.72% of children. Girls had better knowledge and practice of trachoma control than boys. Ten- to 15-year-olds had better knowledge and practices than 6- to 10-year-old children. Trachoma knowledge and practice was better in children of Vinh Loc District of Thanh Hoa Province than in those in Tu Ky District of Hai Duong Province. The schools were the best source of the information. Mass media had a limited role. The outcome suggested a limited positive impact of the 6-month intense initiatives of a health education campaign. Based on the study results, the campaign should be reorganized to focus on high-risk groups and to improve the impact. The findings could be compared to the results of a similar study after 2 years of the campaign.