Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding Urinary Tract Infections among Women in Lahore
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31580/e4rcra38Keywords:
Attitudes, Knowledge, Lahore, Pakistan, Practices, Urinary tract infections (UTIs), Women.Abstract
Background: Urinary tract infections are among the most common bacterial infections worldwide, disproportionately affecting women and contributing significantly to morbidity. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices play a crucial role in the prevention, early diagnosis, and management of UTIs. However, limited data are available regarding women’s awareness and behaviors related to UTIs in Lahore, Pakistan.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women in Lahore using a structured questionnaire. A total of 789 participants were included. The questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and KAP regarding UTIs. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics were applied, and associations between demographic variables and knowledge levels were evaluated using the chi-square test, with a significance level of p < 0.05. This was a self-reported study, only in Lahore, and mostly among educated young women from urban areas.
Results: All participants had heard of UTIs; however, a significant study found that there was definitely a shortage in terms of knowledge regarding Urinary tract infections. However, only 30% correctly identified the condition as affecting the entire urinary tract. Bacteria were recognized as the most common cause by 39.8% of respondents. Pain during urination was the most commonly identified symptom (30.2%). Most participants reported drinking more water (32.2%) or visiting healthcare facilities (27.8%) as appropriate management strategies, although a proportion reported self-medication with antibiotics. Overall, 56.5% of participants demonstrated high knowledge, which was significantly associated with younger age, higher education level, and urban residence (p < 0.05).
Conclusion: Although awareness of UTIs among women in Lahore is high, gaps in accurate knowledge and appropriate practices persist. Targeted educational interventions and improved public health strategies are essential to promote early diagnosis, rational antibiotic use, and effective prevention of UTIs.
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