Knowledge level of noncommunicable disease and associated factors among high school students in the Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are often referred to as lifestyle diseases. The knowledge gaps in NCDs serve as significant obstacles to successful prevention efforts and can contribute to an increased prevalence of these conditions. Hence, assessing the knowledge level of NCDs and its associated factors is important to develop targeted interventions to raise the awareness level. Objective: To assess the knowledge level of NCDs and its associated factors among high school students in the Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia, 2023. Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2023 to February 2023 among high school students. Data were collected using a structured and self-administered questionnaire. The results were presented as frequencies, mean, and median. To estimate the effect of an independent variable and the outcome variable, a binary logistic regression model was used. Results: A total of 532 participants were included in the final analysis, which accounts for a 96.7% response rate. Overall 35.5% of students have good knowledge toward NCDs. Residence and history of NCDs in one of their parents were the factors associated with their knowledge level. Conclusion: The knowledge level of NCDs was unsatisfactorily low. Hence, zonal health office, schools, and other stakeholders should play an active role in increasing the knowledge level of students regarding NCDs and their risk factors.