Study of the knowledge, practices and attitudes of students at Mohammed First University in Oujda regarding viral hepatitis in Morocco.

Abstract

Introduction: Globally and in Morocco, viral hepatitis is a major public health priority, and knowledge and awareness are essential in the combat against this disease.

Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of university students regarding viral hepatitis.

Methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among students enrolled at Mohammed Premier University in Oujda, for the 2023-2024 academic year, using a self-administered and anonymous online questionnaire.

Results: 503 students completed the online questionnaire. The results showed that hepatitis B (73.6%) and C (67.4%) are better known than hepatitis A (52.0%) and E (24.3%). The majority of students (78.0%) knew that HBV can be transmitted by blood, and 62.0% by sexual transmission. For the main mode of transmission of hepatitis C, around two-thirds of respondents (69.0%) indicated transmission by contact with infected blood. Transmission of HVA and HVE viruses was known by 43.5%. The level of knowledge about hepatitis was significantly associated with education levels, medical school affiliation and socio-economic status. Students' preventive practices were positive, but their attitudes towards people with viral hepatitis were negative.

Conclusion: Our results suggest that knowledge of hepatitis needs to be improved through awareness and education campaigns, in order to combat these diseases, especially as Morocco has committed to a global movement to eliminate viral hepatitis by 2030.