Final evaluation of health education on prevention and control of schistosomiasis in Hubei Province from 2004 to 2015 / 中国血吸虫病防治杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To evaluate the health education effect of schistosomiasis in Hubei Province after implementing of the Outline of National Mid-Long-Term Plan for Schistosomiasis Prevention and Control (2004–2015). Methods Based on questionnaires and datum review, the data of health education for integrated prevention and control of schistosomiasis in Hubei Province from 2004 to 2015 were collected to evaluate the effect of health education. Results A total of 16 662 499 schistosomiasis health education publicity materials were distributed, 28 712 times of media propaganda were conducted, 174 506 warning signs were established, 185 985 promotional slogans were issued, 1 212 810 pieces of personal protective equipment were distributed, 9 248 village officer training courses were organized, and 5 569 school teacher training courses in primary and secondary schools were conducted in 63 counties (cities, districts) of 13 cities in Hubei Province from 2004 to 2015. A total of 4 815 people were surveyed in 3 counties in 2015. The awareness rate of schistosomiasis control knowledge was 91.62%, and the correct rates of beliefs and attitudes were 89.54% and 96.91% respectively. The overall rate of correct behavior of the population was 91.91%. The related indicators, such as schistosomiasis infection rate, acute infection cases, and others, declined year by year over the same period. Conclusions The schistosomiasis health education in Hubei Province has obvious effects on enhancing the knowledge and attitudes of schistosomiasis control in populations and promoting the formation of correct schistosomiasis control behavior among residents. It has played an active role and is an important mean in comprehensive prevention and control of schistosomiasis.