April 2026, Volume 4, Issue 4

Author

A. Poojitha, S. Sukanya, S. Sooraj, B. Ananthi, Sivaharivelan Thiagarajan and Balakumar M

Abstract

Background: Intestinal parasite infection (IPI) is a public health issue in developing countries associated with poverty, illiteracy, hot, humid tropical weather, polluted drinking water, and poor sanitation. Common symptoms include intestinal bleeding, nutritional deficiencies, and tissue damage. Lack of knowledge might contribute to these illnesses. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the attitudes and knowledge of medical and paramedical students regarding IPIs in Chennai. Methods: This observational study was conducted among the Medical and paramedical Students from ACS Medical College and Hospital in Chennai. An online questionnaire was administered using Google Forms. The questionnaires included details about the students' information, digestive health, common IPIs, and deworming. The collected data were then analysed. Results: Of the 250 participants, 52.8% were female, 69.6% were 18-24 years old, 54.8% were MBBS, and 45.2% were paramedical students. Medical students most commonly practiced hourly handwashing (73.7%), whereas paramedical students more frequently washed hands only after washroom use (26.5%), indicating comparatively better hand hygiene practices among medical students. 82% reported that inadequate sanitation was a reason for IPI spread. 54.4% had no IPI history, 14.4% were unclear, and 31.2% had IPI. Conclusion: Our study reveals significant gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning gut health and intestinal parasite diseases between medical and paramedical students. Focused curricular improvement, health education, and regular deworming activities are essential for enhancing awareness, promoting preventative behaviours, and improving overall improvement in gut health.