A STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFECT OF HEALTH TEACHING ON KNOWLEDGE REGARDING ROUTINE MEDICAL CHECKUP AMONG ADULTS IN SELECTED RURAL AREA
Abstract
Background: Lack of awareness regarding routine medical checkups is a significant public health concern, especially among adults in rural areas. Regular medical checkups help in early detection, prevention, and management of various diseases.
Objectives: This study aimed to assess the effect of health teaching on knowledge regarding routine medical checkups among adults in rural areas. The objectives were to identify the existing level of knowledge, evaluate the effectiveness of health teaching, and determine the association between knowledge and selected demographic variables.
Method: A quantitative research approach with a pre-experimental one-group pre-test and post-test design was adopted. The study was conducted among 200 adults in a selected rural area using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. The target population included adults aged 36–64 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire consisting of demographic variables and questions related to routine medical checkups. A pilot study was conducted on 20 samples to ensure feasibility and reliability of the tool.
Result: The pre-test findings revealed that 44.50% of adults had poor knowledge, 54% had average knowledge, and only 1.50% had good knowledge regarding routine medical checkups. Following the health teaching intervention, the post-test results showed a significant improvement, with 56.50% of adults attaining good knowledge and 43.50% achieving excellent knowledge. The mean knowledge score increased from 6.05 (±2.04) in the pre-test to 15.05 (±1.83) in the post-test. The paired t-test indicated a statistically significant difference (t = 44.78, p < 0.05), confirming the effectiveness of the health teaching program. No significant association was found between pre-test knowledge scores and selected demographic variables.
Conclusion: The study concludes that health teaching is highly effective in improving knowledge regarding routine medical checkups among adults in rural areas. Regular health education programs should be implemented to enhance awareness and promote preventive healthcare practices.
