Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of toxoplasmosis among pregnant women and healthcare workers in Kinshasa

Abstract

This study aim was to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices of pregnant women and healthcare personnel regarding toxoplasmosis, in order to propose appropriate educational interventions. The survey involved 384 pregnant women, mostly aged 25 to 35, with secondary or university-level education, often married and unemployed. The majority were unaware of toxoplasmosis, although some spontaneously adopted protective behaviors such as washing fruits and vegetables or avoiding raw meat. Women with university education demonstrated better awareness, while marital status and employment showed no significant influence on knowledge. Among the 384 healthcare workers surveyed, mainly male physicians and nurses aged 30 to 40 with 5 to 10 years of experience, few had received specific training, despite some awareness of transmission routes. Preventive measures and access to diagnostic resources were poorly known or limited. Male participants and veterinarians showed a higher level of knowledge, while no strong correlations were found with other variables.

Keywords: Toxoplasmosis, knowledge, attitudes, practices, perception, pregnant women, healthcare personnel, educational interventions, Kinshasa