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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Cholera Outbreak Among Medical Students in Yemen: A Cross-Sectional Study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Cholera is a potentially life-threatening diarrheal disease if left untreated, transmitted via contaminated water or food, and linked mainly to poor sanitation. Yemen is facing a public health crisis with an increasing number of cases in 2024, underscoring the importance of improving awareness and the need for education to enhance prevention and management. Methods This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in July 2024. The data were collected via a self-administered online questionnaire. Inferential analysis included independent t-tests for comparing two groups and one-way ANOVA for multiple groups, with a statistical significance threshold of p<0.05. Results The study surveyed 412 Yemeni medical students, predominantly male (65.5%) and single (86.7%), with a mean age of 22.48±2.6 years. The mean knowledge score was 7.35±2.36, and significant knowledge gaps in recognizing the range of severity of the disease, risk factors, complications, and vaccine awareness exist. The mean attitude score was 11.45±2.13 out of 15, with 70% showing a positive attitude. The practices score was poor, with a mean of 4.32±2.18 out of 9, with low adherence to preventive measures such as washing and peeling fresh fruits and vegetables (<30%). Our analysis showed significant associations, with age positively correlating with knowledge (r=0.262; p<0.001) and attitudes (r=0.17; p<0.001), while females scored higher in practices (p=0.002). Academic year significantly influenced knowledge (p<0.001) and attitudes (p=0.003), with sixth-year students scoring the highest. Conclusion While the Yemeni medical students demonstrated moderate knowledge and a generally positive attitude toward cholera, significant gaps in preventive practices were noted. Addressing these gaps through targeted educational programs on disease prevention, transmission, and management is essential to strengthen students' preparedness and improve public health outcomes.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.78885