Socio-economic dimensions of handwashing knowledge in student populations at Ukhiya subdistrict of Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

The critical role of handwashing in preventing infectious disease transmission, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores the importance of understanding and enhancing hand hygiene practices in developing countries like Bangladesh. This research aims to identify the socio-economic factors affecting handwashing knowledge among students, thereby informing targeted public health interventions to improve hygiene practices and reduce disease spread. A cross-sectional study was conducted across ten government primary schools in Ukhiya between March and April 2022. The sample comprised 400 students, selected using systematic sampling techniques, excluding those with learning disabilities or unwilling to participate. Data were collected via interviewer-administered questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and Stata, with handwashing knowledge scores categorized as 'poor' or 'good' based on responses to 16 questions. The results revealed a high level of handwashing knowledge among students, with 90.5% categorized as having 'good' knowledge. No significant gender differences were observed in handwashing knowledge. However, a strong correlation was found between the educational levels of the students' mothers and handwashing knowledge, highlighting the influence of maternal education on health behaviors. Additionally, the occupational background of students' fathers and hygiene and sanitation clubs in the community were significantly associated with handwashing knowledge. The findings underscore the pivotal role of family and community resources in shaping hand hygiene practices among students. This study concludes that handwashing knowledge among students in Ukhiya is generally high, reflecting effective public health education. However, the influence of socio-economic factors, such as parental education and community resources, suggests that targeted interventions could further enhance hand hygiene practices. Future efforts should aim to translate this high level of handwashing knowledge into consistent practice across diverse socio-economic contexts, contributing to the community's overall well-being.