KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIORS AMONG CITIZENS IN TRA VINH, VIETNAM REGARDING HEPATITIS C: A COMMUNITY -BASED SURVEY

Abstract

Background: People with the right knowledge and behavior can reduce the likelihood of hepatitis C. Objectives: To determine some related factors to knowledge and practice on prevention of hepatitis C virus infection among citizens in Tra Vinh province in 2022. Materials and method: A cross-sectional study using directly interviewed questions on 426 people who are from 18 to 60 years old residing in Tra Vinh province. Results: Correct knowledge about hepatitis C virus infection prevention (39.44%) varied by age group, occupation, and cultural levels. Proportion of people with correct behavior about hepatitis C virus infection (72.30%) did not differ by age group, occupation, education levels, but there were differences according to gender, correct behavior concentrated on male subjects. People with correct general knowledge lead to correct risk and prevention behaviors were 1.62 times higher than those with correct general knowledge but incorrect risk and prevention behaviors. Conclusion: Communication and education about hepatitis C virus can help people in Tra Vinh province have the right general knowledge about the disease, thereby implementing the right behaviors about hepatitis C virus infection.