Assessing the Impact of Community Health Education on Hepatitis B and C Prevention

Abstract

This study assesses the impact of community health education on hepatitis B and C prevention, focusing on knowledge levels and behavior change among participants. A quasi-experimental design, specifically a pre- and post-test design, was employed to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. The study was conducted in a selected community with a high proportion of individuals at risk of hepatitis B and C. Participants were recruited through community organizations and local health clinics. Data was collected through pre- and post-intervention assessments, measuring participants' knowledge and behaviors related to hepatitis B and C prevention. The community health education intervention consisted of educational sessions, distribution of informational materials, and interactive activities. Paired sample t-tests were conducted to analyze the changes in knowledge and behavior scores before and after the intervention. The results showed a significant improvement in participants' knowledge levels regarding hepatitis B and C after the intervention. Participants demonstrated increased understanding of transmission routes, symptoms and signs, prevention methods, treatment options, and the importance of vaccination. The intervention had a positive impact on behavior change, with participants showing an increase in the utilization of barrier methods and safe injection practices, as well as a reduction in needle-sharing behavior. These findings indicate that community health education is effective in enhancing knowledge and promoting positive behaviors related to hepatitis B and C prevention. The study supports the value of educational interventions in empowering individuals to make informed decisions and adopt preventive practices. By equipping individuals with accurate information and promoting behavior change, community health education programs contribute to reducing the incidence and prevalence of hepatitis B and C infections..