Abstract

DESIGN AND VALIDATION OF A KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE FOR ANEMIA AMONG PREGNANT WOMEN

Qaswa Zareen, Dr. Kanchana Dussa*, Dr. A. Venkateshwar Reddy, Safoora Begum, Ghazala Yasmeen, Sufia Tanveer

ABSTRACT

Background: Anemia during pregnancy remains a significant public health challenge in India, with prevalence rates exceeding 50% despite national prevention programs. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among pregnant women are critical determinants of anemia management and prevention outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to develop and validate a comprehensive KAP questionnaire specifically designed to assess factors influencing anemia among pregnant women in Indian healthcare settings. Methods: A structured questionnaire was developed through a systematic literature review and adaptation of validated KAP instruments. The tool comprises three thematic sections: Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice. Content validity was ensured through expert panel review by obstetricians, clinical pharmacists, and public health researchers. The questionnaire underwent pilot testing for clarity and cultural appropriateness. Results: The validated questionnaire demonstrated robust content validity across all sections. The scoring system enables the categorization of participants into groups based on their knowledge (poor, moderate/good knowledge,) attitudes (negative, neutral/positive attitudes) and practices (unsatisfactory, satisfactory/good practices), facilitating targeted interventions. Conclusion: This validated KAP questionnaire provides a standardized tool for healthcare professionals to systematically assess maternal factors contributing to anemia burden, enabling evidence-based counselling and tailored interventions to improve pregnancy outcomes.

Keywords: Anemia in Pregnancy, KAP Survey, Maternal Health, India, Questionnaire Validation, Antenatal Care.