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Knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices related to chronic suppurative otitis media and hearing impairment in Pokhara, Nepal

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 November 2015

N F Poole ,
M K Skilton ,
T C P Martin  and
M C F Smith
N F Poole*
Affiliation:
College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
M K Skilton
Affiliation:
College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, UK
T C P Martin
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Worcester Royal Hospital, UK
M C F Smith
Affiliation:
Department of ENT, Worcester Royal Hospital, UK Department of ENT, Hereford County Hospital, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Miss N Poole, 40 Heathfield Close, Formby, Liverpool L37 7HP, UK Email: [email protected]
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Abstract

Background:

Nepal has a high prevalence of chronic suppurative otitis media and hearing impairment. An improved understanding of patients' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices is therefore important for effective healthcare planning and intervention.

Method:

Questionnaires designed to explore their current knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and practices were completed by 153 participants: 71 were affected by a known ear disease and 82 were unaffected.

Results:

In the unaffected group, 31.7 per cent considered breast milk to be a risk factor for ear infection. Home remedies (e.g. leaf paste, oils, and urine and/or bodily fluids) had been used by 42.3 per cent of the affected group. Most participants (71.9 per cent) believed that society discriminates against those with hearing impairment.

Conclusion:

Knowledge deficits and false beliefs were found in both groups, along with a significant use of home remedies and a perception of discrimination against people with hearing impairment. These findings are relevant for healthcare providers and may aid the development of policy, interventions and public education initiatives.

Keywords

Health Knowledge, Attitudes, PracticeEar DiseasesOtitisHearing LossNepal
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 130 , Issue 1 , January 2016 , pp. 56 - 65
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2015 

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