Maternal knowledge and practices regarding amoebiasis in Kut City, Middle Iraq

Abstract

Amoebiasis is a real public health problem and a major public health threat in many regions, particularly in developing countries. The present study was conducted to assess mothers' levels of knowledge about this parasitosis. A cross-sectional study was carried out on mothers whose children were suffering from amoebiasis and who consulted on an ongoing basis at seven basic healthcare centers in the city of Kut during the period from June 1, 2022, to September 31, 2022. The results show that the average age of the mothers was 24.8 years (standard deviation = 6.46) and that the 20–29 age range presented the highest percentage (73.3%). In terms of level of education, a higher percentage of mothers had an average level of schooling (39.2%). More than half of the mothers were employed; 39.2% of them were in the public sector and 21.7% in the private sector. The results showed that 65.8% and 72.5% of mothers expressed low knowledge (61.25; SD = 11.43) and low practice (30.68; SD = 9.300), respectively. Levels of knowledge and practice were unsatisfactory among mothers of children with amebiasis. This study highlights the importance of raising mothers' awareness of amoebiasis. Efforts should be made to improve knowledge and provide the necessary support to ensure better diagnostic and therapeutic management of children with amoebiasis.