Knowledge Attitude and Practices of adolescent youth regarding Hepatitis B & C in district Hyderabad

Introduction: Globally Hepatitis B and C is a major public health problem & potential cause of substantial morbidity and mortality. Pakistan has been rated among countries which are endemic for hepatitis B and C where disease burden is high. Methodology: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted from June- August 2006 in government colleges of district Hyderabad. 243 students were interviewed by using a pre-tested, closed ended questionnaire. The variables assessed were regarding knowledge, attitude and practice towards hepatitis B & C Results: 243 students were approached for interviewed. 10% (n=25) knew that hepatitis is caused by virus. 84% (n=205) agreed that it is transmitted from one person to another person. Among these 29% (n=71) agreed on reuse of syringes, 19% (n=47) attributed unscreened blood transfusion, 18% (n=44) consider reuse of blade and sexual intercourse as a mode of transmission. 45% (n=110) mentioned it as preventable disease, in this group 17% (n=42) advocated safe sex practices, 15% (n=37) stated vaccination, 12% (n=30) recommended use of new disposable syringe, 10% (n=25) advocated use of new blade and 8% (n=20) stressed screening of blood before transfusion. 71% (n=173) & 68% (n=166) respondents used new syringe & new blade respectively. 29% (n=71) were vaccinated against Hepatitis B. Television was the leading source of information. Conclusion: Students’ knowledge regarding Hepatitis is low, but their preventive practices are good. Majority of students were unvaccinated against Hepatitis B. Messages about Hepatitis may be incorporated in media to increase the level of awareness.   Key Words: KAP, Youth, Hepatiti