Infectious Disease Awareness Among Future Health Professionals: A Comparison of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Between Nursing Students in Japan and Laos
Issued Date
2025-09-01
Resource Type
eISSN
20760817
Scopus ID
2-s2.0-105017380777
Journal Title
Pathogens
Volume
14
Issue
9
Rights Holder(s)
SCOPUS
Bibliographic Citation
Pathogens Vol.14 No.9 (2025)
Suggested Citation
Abeywickrama H.M., Pongvongsa T., Sato M.O., Takeuchi R., Abiko Y., Yoonuan T., Kobayashi J., Sato M. Infectious Disease Awareness Among Future Health Professionals: A Comparison of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Between Nursing Students in Japan and Laos. Pathogens Vol.14 No.9 (2025). doi:10.3390/pathogens14090920 Retrieved from: https://repository.li.mahidol.ac.th/handle/123456789/112462
Title
Infectious Disease Awareness Among Future Health Professionals: A Comparison of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Between Nursing Students in Japan and Laos
Corresponding Author(s)
Other Contributor(s)
Abstract
This study assessed and compared the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nursing students in Japan and Laos, two countries with distinct epidemiological and socioeconomic contexts, regarding neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and zoonoses. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire among 190 nursing students from Japan and 254 students from Laos. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test were used to analyze intergroup differences. Most of the study participants were female and in their first or second year of their nursing program. Knowledge gaps were identified in both groups. Japanese students showed a higher perceived susceptibility to infections and greater adherence to hygiene practices. Laotian students reported higher exposure to endemic diseases and more frequent contact with livestock. Attitudes toward public health education were generally positive, although Japanese students expressed a greater willingness to engage in future educational roles. However, gaps between attitude and actual practice were apparent in both groups, including inconsistent use of soap and insect repellents. The findings reveal a gap in knowledge of NTDs and zoonoses and a deficit in translating knowledge and attitudes into preventive behaviors. Findings highlight the need for tailored educational strategies considering behavioral and cultural factors to strengthen the nurse’s role in infectious disease prevention.