ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF TB PREVENTION IN MOYALE GENERAL HOSPITAL, OROMIA, ETHIOPIA.

Abstract

Abstract Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health issue in Ethiopia, particularly in rural and under-resourced areas. Poor knowledge, negative attitudes, and inadequate preventive practices among patients contribute to continued transmission. Moyale General Hospital, located in a border area with high population mobility, presents a unique setting for TB control challenges. Objective: the main aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) related to TB prevention among patients at Moyale General Hospital, with the goal of identifying gaps and informing targeted interventions. Method: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 422 patients at Moyale General Hospital from September 2025 to February 2026. Systematic random sampling was used to recruit participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.0. Bivariate logistic regression was employed to identify factors associated with KAP levels, with significance set at p < 0.05. Result: Of the 422 participants (45.3% female; mean age 38.1 years), 38.9% demonstrated good knowledge, 60.4% had favorable attitudes, and 23.0% showed good preventive practices. Urban residency was significantly associated with good knowledge (COR=4.38, 95% CI: 2.60- 7.38), favorable attitude (COR=2.96, 95% CI: 1.92- 4.57), and good practice (COR=2.07, 95% CI: 1.18-3.62). Higher education was associated with good practice (COR=2.12, 95% CI: 1.16- 3.86) but unexpectedly lower odds of good knowledge compared to those with no formal education in this specific setting. Conclusion : The study reveals significant gaps in TB prevention knowledge and practices, despite relatively favorable attitudes. The urban-rural divide is a critical determinant of KAP levels. Interventions should prioritize rural outreach and tailored health education that addresses the specific needs of populations with varying educational backgrounds. Keywords: Tuberculosis, KAP, Moyale, Ethiopia, Associated Factors.