Identifying Knowledge Gaps Regarding Heat Stroke Among an Adult Sample in Pune, India: A Descriptive Analysis

TL;DR

This study assesses adults in Pune, India, on their knowledge of heat stroke and finds that most have average knowledge, with no strong links to demographic factors.

Contribution

The study identifies general knowledge levels about heat stroke in Pune and highlights the need for broad-based public health education.

Findings

53% of participants had average knowledge about heat stroke, 38% had good knowledge, and 9% had poor knowledge.

No significant association was found between knowledge levels and demographic factors like age, gender, or income.

Abstract

Introduction: Heat stroke is a serious health concern that occurs when the body fails to regulate its temperature, often due to extreme heat exposure. Given the rising temperatures and recurring heat waves in India, understanding and preventing heat stroke is vital. The state of Maharashtra, including Pune city, is prone to extreme heat events, making it necessary to evaluate the knowledge of residents regarding this life-threatening condition. Limited studies exist in this region to assess public knowledge on heat stroke, highlighting the importance of this research. The main objective of this study is to assess the level of knowledge regarding heat stroke among adults residing in selected areas of Pune. The study aims to identify gaps in knowledge and understand the relationship between demographic factors and knowledge levels. This information can support public health initiatives aimed at heat stroke prevention.

Material and methods: A non-experimental, descriptive design was employed using a quantitative research approach. The study was conducted in selected areas of Pune. A total of 300 adult participants aged 18 and above were selected using non-probability purposive sampling. The sample size was calculated considering the finite population of the urban slums, and knowledge deficit was identified from previous literature regarding heat stroke. Data collection was carried out using a self-structured questionnaire, which included demographic variables and specific questions on knowledge of heatstroke. The content validity of the tool was established, and the test-retest method was implemented to ascertain the reliability of the tool. The pilot study was conducted to understand the feasibility of the tool on 30 samples. Frequency percentage analysis was undertaken to analyze the data collected pertaining to the knowledge regarding heatstroke.

Results: Demographic analysis showed that 80 (26.5%) participants were in the 38-47-year age group, and 162 (54%) were female. In terms of education, 162 (54%) had completed education up to the 10th grade and above. The majority of participants (101, 33.5%) had a family income of Rs. 20,001-30,000 (Indian rupees (INR)). Religion-wise analysis shows that 131 (43.5%) of participants were Hindu. Data related to knowledge revealed that 159 (53%) of participants had average knowledge regarding heat stroke, 114 (38%) had good knowledge, and 27 (9%) had poor knowledge. The study found no significant association between knowledge levels and demographic variables such as age, gender, education, family income, and religion (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that most adults in selected areas of Pune have average knowledge of heat stroke, with only a small proportion demonstrating poor knowledge. The lack of a significant association between knowledge and demographic factors suggests that efforts to increase awareness and knowledge should be broad-based rather than targeting specific groups. Public health campaigns should aim to educate all demographic segments on the dangers of heat stroke, symptoms, and preventive measures. Given the threat posed by rising temperatures in Maharashtra, such initiatives could play a crucial role in reducing the health burden of heat-related illnesses.

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