Knowledge, Attitude, and Preventive Behavior of University Students toward Tuberculosis in Kabul, Afghanistan: A Cross – sectional Study
Abstract
Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a critical public health issue in Afghanistan for decades. Insufficient awareness about TB and its symptoms among university students may contribute to delayed diagnosis and treatment, thereby exacerbating the severity of tuberculosis. The present study seeks to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and preventive behavior toward TB among both medical and non-medical universities students in Kabul, Afghanistan.
Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional survey design among male students at Kabul Polytechnic and Kateb Universities. A standardized questionnaire was administrated to a sample of 590 students, comprising both medical and non-medical disciplines. Probability sampling methodology was employed for data collection during the year 2023. Data analysis was conducted utilizing SPSS version 24 software.
Results: The research encompassed 580 respondents out of 590, a response rate of 98%. The 425 (73%), and 155 (27%) was over and under 20 age respectively, and majority 421 (73%) were nonsmokers. The average knowledge score 6.83 and 6.38 out of 10, for both medical and non-medical disciplines, respectively. The average score reflecting preventive behaviors toward tuberculosis among medical and non-medical faculties. Was 35.48 and 32.65, out of a maximum score of 44, respectively, A statistically significant positive correlation was observed among students regarding their knowledge and attitudes toward tuberculosis (r = 0.129, p < 0.01). Additionally, a positive correlation was found between knowledge and preventive behaviors (r = 0.121, p < 0.01), as well as between attitudes and preventive behaviors (r = 0.435, p < 0.01).
Conclusion: This study highlights the Significance of targeted Initiatives to enhance TB awareness and promote preventative actions among students across disciplines. Additionally, attitudes towards TB treatment were generally positive among both groups, the study highlights several key factors influencing preventive behavior, including the role of faculty, awareness of symptoms, and individuals' attitudes toward treatment and education. These findings can inform the development of effective strategies to improve TB prevention efforts among students.
