Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice among Palestinian Healthcare Workers in the Gaza Strip towards Hepatitis B: A cross-sectional survey

Objectives: Healthcare workers are at a high potential risk of Hepatitis B virus infection (HBV). This survey aims to identify gaps and strengths in the knowledge, cultural perceptions, and practices of healthcare workers towards HBV in order to drive appropriate health interventions. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between March and April 2022. We surveyed a convenience sample of three at-risk healthcare providers from the major health facilities in Gaza. A 40-item, self-administered questionnaire was used. Statistical data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 25 to obtain descriptive and inferential statistics via various nonparametric, correlation, and regression tests (with p<0.05). Results: 447 healthcare workers participated in the study. Overall, 105 (23.5%) demonstrated poor knowledge (under 14\20 points), 284 (63.5%) had moderate knowledge (14-17 points), and 58 (13%) showed good knowledge about HBV. The majority (367, 82.1%) expressed an excellent attitude. Finally, 287 (64.2%) demonstrated a good level of practice toward HBV infection. A history of needle stick injury was reported by 233 (52.1%) participants, of whom 170 (73.3%) reported taking appropriate preventive actions after exposure. Conclusion: The majority of participants demonstrated overall good knowledge regarding HBV infection. Nonetheless, significant gaps remain in the different aspects of the KAP construct, which require appropriate awareness campaigns to further limit the spread of this preventable viral infection. Keywords: Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; Attitude of Health Personnel; Hepatitis B; Epidemiology; prevention and control; Health Personnel; Cross-Sectional Studies