Toxoplasmosis Knowledge and Practices Among Pregnant Women in the US
Author Information
Author(s): Jeffrey L. Jones, Folashade Ogunmodede, Joni Scheftel, Elizabeth Kirkland, Adriana Lopez, Jay Schulkin, Ruth Lynfield
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What do pregnant women in the US know about toxoplasmosis and how do they prevent it?
Conclusion
Knowledge among pregnant women about toxoplasmosis is low, but preventive practices are generally good.
Supporting Evidence
- 48% of women had heard or seen information about toxoplasmosis.
- Only 7% were aware of being tested for the disease.
- 61% knew that T. gondii is shed in the feces of infected cats.
- 40% knew that toxoplasmosis is caused by an infection.
- 93% routinely wash their hands after gardening.
Takeaway
Many pregnant women don't know much about toxoplasmosis, but they are careful about hygiene to prevent it.
Methodology
Survey of pregnant women conducted by obstetricians to assess knowledge and practices regarding toxoplasmosis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to self-reported data and the setting of the survey in medical care environments.
Limitations
Results may not be representative of all pregnant women in the US due to volunteer bias and higher education levels of participants.
Participant Demographics
Median age of participants was 29, with a range of 12-49 years; predominantly white and educated.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.008
Confidence Interval
95% confidence limits calculated for proportions
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website