Knowledge and behavior relating to malaria in malaria endemic villages of Khammouane Province, Lao PDR.

In order to provide basic data for evaluation of malaria control measures, a study on the knowledge and behavior of people regarding prevention of malaria was carried out in 8 malaria endemic villages in Khammouane Province of Lao PDR from 1999 to 2000. The total valid questionnaire respondents were 932, with a mean age of 32.3 +/- 14.9. 43.7% of the respondents were illiterate. About 44% of the respondents suffered from malaria in the past. About 55% of the illiterate group slept in mosquito nets, compared to 75.4% for the educated group. About 29% of the illiterate respondents had knowledge of malaria transmission by mosquito bites, compared to 48.8% for the educated groups. Out of 167 non-impregnated mosquito nets examined in two villages, 13 were in bad condition having holes or leaks and 39 female mosquitos including Anopheles spp were collected in these nets by early morning catches. Knowledge of malaria and behavior in relation to the prevention of malaria were significantly related to educational level. Health education as well as general education must be taken into account for communities in malaria endemic areas to become more involved in malaria control strategies.