Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Protecting School-Age Children from Particulate Matter in Samut Prakan, Thailand

Abstract

This cross-sectional study evaluated caregivers' practices and identified factors associated with protecting school-age children from exposure to fine particulate matter in the Pak Nam Subdistrict of Samut Prakan Province, Thailand. Data on the sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of 389 caregivers of students in Grades 1 to 6 from seven elementary schools were collected using a structured questionnaire. Univariate logistic regression was then used to analyze the associations between these variables. The results showed that approximately half of the respondents had good knowledge and positive attitudes, but only 22.8% had good protective practices. These respondents need to improve their practices in checking ambient air quality, minimizing children's exposure, and selecting appropriate masks. Factors associated with good practices included being aged 40-49 years (p=0.010), educational level (p=0.004), and various occupations, such as governmental or private employees (p=0.028), business owners (p=0.004), and retirees or housewives (p=0.004). Furthermore, respondents with good knowledge (OR: 1.98, 95% CI=1.18-3.34, p=0.006) and positive attitudes (OR: 1.89, 95% CI=1.14-3.14, p=0.009) were more likely to exhibit better practices. These findings, along with policy actions, highlight the need for targeted interventions to promote behavioral adaptations in specific demographic groups.