Factors associated with malaria prevention behaviors among residents in the border area Mae Ramat District, Tak Province
Keywords:
malaria, health belief model, knowledge, prevention behavior, border areaAbstract
Introduction: Malaria continues to pose a significant public health threat in Thailand, particularly in border areas such as Tak Province.
Objective: This study aimed to determine the factors associated with malaria prevention behavior among residents in the border area of Thailand.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among residents aged 18 years and older in Khane Chue Subdistrict, Thailand during June 25 to August 9, 2025. Data collection utilized an interviewer-administered, validated questionnaire to assess demographics, knowledge, health beliefs, and preventive behaviors. Associations were examined using the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact test, and multivariate logistic regression.
Results: Among the 250 participants, 74% were female, 76.8% were married, and 89.2% had low income. Nearly half (47.2%) reported a personal history of malaria. Overall, 66.8% exhibited good prevention behaviors. Education level was significantly associated with prevention behavior. In the multivariable analysis, moderate and high perceived barriers were strongly associated with poor prevention behavior (AOR = 3.89 for moderate, 95% CI: 1.32–11.48, p = 0.014; AOR = 3.01 for high, 95% CI: 1.59–5.69, p = 0.001). Additionally, moderate perceived benefits were associated with poor prevention behavior compared to high perceived benefits (AOR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.21–3.97, p = 0.010).
Conclusion: Even though a large proportion of residents in the border area had good malaria prevention behavior, targeted interventions should focus on reducing barriers and reinforcing the benefits of preventive measures. Health education and the promotion of community-based interventions are strongly recommended for health authorities to support malaria prevention efforts.
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