Suporn Thongyuan. Comparison of social epidemiological factors in relation to DHF between semi-rural and semi-urban communities . Master's Degree(Tropical Medicine). Mahidol University. : Mahidol University, 2007.
Comparison of social epidemiological factors in relation to DHF between semi-rural and semi-urban communities
Abstract:
Dengue used to be confined to large cities in Thailand, but recent incidence rates
have been higher in rural than urban areas. The objective of this study was to
determine the differences of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice (KAP) and their
relationship to presence of immature Aedes mosquitoes in a number of households
with a total of 471 inhabitants in semi-rural and semi-urban communities in
Chachoengsao Province. A cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire was
used to interview heads of households together with observation of immature
mosquitoes in water containers. Socio-demographic characteristics, housing structures,
environment and KAP were tested their relationship to dengue prevention and control.
The results revealed that the respondents in both settings had a high knowledge of
dengue vectors and of dengue prevention and control. Knowledge of vectors was
significantly related to education level and community setting (P=0.001). Knowledge
of dengue prevention and control was significantly related to community setting
(P=0.021). Only the level of knowledge of dengue prevention and control was
significantly related to attitude (P=0.003). Occupation, community setting, and house
occupancy were significantly associated with practices to reduce immature Aedes
mosquitoes (P=0.010). House type and setting were significantly related to the
presence of immature Aedes mosquitoes in the premises (P=0.000).
The data analysis from this study could serve as base-line information for
implementing a dengue prevention and control program that is appropriate to the needs
of communities. Community participation concerning reduction of dengue vectors
should be done in both semi-rural and semi-urban settings.