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Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Protecting School-Age Children from Particulate Matter in Samut Prakan, Thailand |
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| รหัสดีโอไอ | |
| Creator | Pitchanan Kajonpet |
| Title | Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Protecting School-Age Children from Particulate Matter in Samut Prakan, Thailand |
| Contributor | Natnaree Aimyong, Arthit Phosri, Tanasri Sihabut |
| Publisher | คณะสาธารณสุขศาสตร์ มหาวิทยาลัยมหิดล |
| Publication Year | 2568 |
| Journal Title | Thai Journal of Public Health |
| Journal Vol. | 55 |
| Journal No. | 3 |
| Page no. | 1448 - 1466 |
| Keyword | Caregiver, Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP), Particulate matter, Children |
| URL Website | https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jph |
| Website title | Thai Journal of Public Health |
| ISSN | 2697 - 5866 |
| Abstract | This cross-sectional study evaluated caregivers' practices and identified factors associated with protecting school-age children from exposure to fine particulate matter in the Pak Nam Subdistrict of Samut Prakan Province, Thailand. Qualitative data on the sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of 389 caregivers of students in Grades 1 to 6 from seven elementary schools were collected using a structured questionnaire. Univariate logistic regression was then used to analyze the associations between these variables. The results showed that approximately half of the respondents had good knowledge and positive attitudes, but only 22.8% had good protective practices. These respondents need to improve their practices in checking ambient air quality, minimizing children's exposure, and selecting appropriate masks. Factors associated with good practices included being aged 40-49 years (p=0.010), educational level (p=0.004), and various occupations, such as governmental or private officers (p=0.028), business owners (p=0.004), and retirees or housewives (p=0.004). Furthermore, respondents with good knowledge (OR: 1.98, 95% CI=1.18-3.34, p=0.006) and positive attitudes (OR: 2.01, 95% CI=1.21-3.33, p=0.004) were more likely to exhibit better practices. These findings will help responsible authorities develop a strategic plan to protect children's health. |
