A Study on Personal Hygiene Practices among Children in a Selected Schools of Singur block, Hooghly District

Abstract

Context: Personal hygiene practices play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases among school children. Poor hygiene can lead to increased morbidity, absenteeism, and decreased educational productivity.

Aims: To find out Personal Hygiene Practices and associated factors among Children in a Selected Schools of Singur block, Hooghly District.

Settings and Design: An institutional based observational study was conducted among 156 Middle School children of age group of 11 to 15 years in a Selected Schools of Singur block, Hooghly District, West Bengal from March 2024 to August 2024.

Methods and Material: 156 study participants were selected by stratified random sampling and Pre-tested, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic characteristics, handwashing frequency, and other hygiene practices

Statistical analysis used: Descriptive statistics, univariate and multivariable logistic regression was done using MS Excel 2021 and SPSS 16.

Results: The median age of study participants was 13 years (IQR-12-14). The study finding showed that 32% of participants reported acute morbidity in the past fortnight. Hand washing frequency was satisfactory, with 71% of children washing their hands at least 3-4 times a day.  Statistically Significant association was found with Overcrowding, Mother’s Educational level and acute illness.

Conclusion: While hand washing frequency was relatively high, overall personal hygiene practices among school children were suboptimal.

Keywords: Personal hygiene, School Children, Hand washing, Acute illness