TB Research

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice towards Tuberculosis among Taif University Students

Eilaf A. Mohammed, Huriyyah A. Alotaibi, Joud Alnemari, Meznah S. Althobiti, Shumukh S. Alotaibi, Ashraf A. Ewis, Azza A. K. El‐Sheikh, Sayed F. Abdelwahab

Healthcare · 2023-10

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant public health concern worldwide. Given the dense living and interactive nature of university environments, students may be at higher risk. This cross-sectional study assessed tuberculosis-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among students at Taif University (TU) from November 2022 to May 2023. Using a self-administered online questionnaire with 40 items, 1155 students participated. Key demographics: 68.2% females, 96.9% Saudi citizens, 94.5% unmarried, and 87.5% non-smokers. Of the respondents, 26.5% had no knowledge of TB. The TB-related KAP scores among the aware students were 64.9%, 74.8%, and 81%, respectively. Medical college students exhibited significantly higher TB-related knowledge and attitudes than their non-medical peers (p < 0.001). The findings indicate a commendable level of TB-awareness among TU students, but there remains a substantial uninformed segment. Campaigns to enhance TB knowledge among TU students are suggested.

MeSH terms

  • Psychology
  • Tuberculosis
  • Medical education