Comparative Study to Assess the Knowledge on Worm Infestation among Urban and Rural Mothers of School Going Children (3-12 Yrs) at Karaikal District
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/mlu.v20i4.1812Keywords:
Knowledge, worm infestations, Urban, Rural, Mothers of school going childrenAbstract
Background: Helminthes infections are more prevalent among school children aged 5-14 years. Hookworm
burden is the major etiology for iron deficiency anemia in young children. One of the major health concerns
especially among children is anemia and malnutrition. This risk has further complicated by lack of awareness
on prevention of worm infestation among children and parents, care givers especially mothers. Increasing
children’s and their Parents awareness of the problem can help to fight the disease.
Objectives: To assess the knowledge on worm infestation among urban and rural mothers of School going
children.
Materials and Method: Non-experimental Comparative study was conducted to assess the knowledge
among mothers in urban and rural area at Karaikal. Sample size comprised of 150 mothers of school going
children were selected through non-probability or non-randomized convenience sampling. Out of 150
mothers 75 mothers from urban area and 75 mothers from rural area. The data was collected by using pretested
structured knowledge questionnaire. Data was analyzed by both descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: This study revealed that in urban area the majority of the mothers of school going children 37%(28)
had adequate knowledge, 40%(30) had moderately adequate knowledge and 23%(17) had inadequate
knowledge regarding worm infestation. Also revealed that in rural area the majority of the mothers of school
going children 35%(26) had inadequate knowledge, 36%(27) had moderately adequate knowledge and
29%(22) had adequate knowledge regarding worm infestation. Mean and standard deviation (SD) of the
urban and rural area mothers of school going children respectively 16.8±4.77, 15.01±5.16.
Conclusion: The researcher concluded that the need for more research to improve not only the knowledge
also attitude and practices among mothers of school age children on worm infestations.
