Knowledge regarding reproductive and child health: an intervention study among ASHAs in a block of West Bengal

BACKGROUND ASHAs are the first port of call for any health related demands of the local community, especially women and childrenwho find it difficult to access health services; hence it is imperative to assess their knowledge regarding reproductive and child health (RCH) and factors influencing their knowledge. METHODS A cross-sectional study (Pre/Post-test study design) was conducted on ASHAs working in Singur block of West Bengal to determine their knowledge regarding specific pre-defined topics related to RCH services, to assess the effect of health education on their baseline knowledge and to study the association between their level of education and knowledge regarding RCH services. RESULTS The mean age of the sample was 34.42 years (S.D: ±2.91). About 27%, 35% and 39% of the ASHAs have completed secondary, higher secondary and graduate level of education, respectively. The mean baseline score was 9.65 (maximum-27) which improved to 21.21 following health education and this difference was statistically significant (p