Abstract
Introduction
Dengue infection has increased dramatically in recent decades, with an estimated 390 million infections and 90 million cases per year. Cambodia has one of the highest incidence rates in the region, with an average of 103 cases per 10,000 population. Understanding the factors that have an impact on community preventive practices may provide insight into targeted interventions to enhance and improve dengue prevention management.
Methods
Existing data from the rapid survey 2022 in Pursat province were used. The survey used a multistage sampling approach to collect a total sample size of 98 both sexes aged 18-65 years. Preventive practice (outcome variable) was defined based on 14 combined questions; then, it was categorized dichotomously as good vs poor. Associations between sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge and attitude toward dengue fever with preventive practice were assessed using Pearson’s chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors independently associated with dengue preventive practice.
Results
The mean age of the participants was 44.6 years (SD = 1.4), 78.6% were women and 88.8% were married. The majority of respondents (45.9%) were at primary school. Many respondents were farmers (37.7%) and petty cash sellers (34.7%). The median monthly income was US$ 125 (IQR = 220). Using an 80% cut-off point, 32.6% and 81.6% of respondents were classified as having good knowledge and a positive attitude toward dengue fever, respectively. Slightly more than one-third (33.7%) were classified as having good preventive practices. No sociodemographic characteristics were found to be associated with preventive practice. A positive attitude toward dengue fever was the only main predictor of dengue preventive practice, with AOR = 6.3 (95% CI: 1.2-33.6)
Conclusion
This survey indicated a low knowledge and preventive practice of the community despite the high proportion of positive attitudes toward dengue fever. Only positive attitudes toward dengue fever were a main predictor of good preventive practices. Health promotion activities through campaigns and social mobilization to improve knowledge and change community attitudes on dengue fever should be further addressed.