Toxoplasmosis prevention knowledge among pregnant women in Minnesota

Congenital toxoplasmosis causes blindness and mental retardation. In the United States, up to 85% of women of childbearing age are susceptible to infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, which causes toxoplasmosis. Up to 50% of T gondii infections are transmitted by ingesting undercooked meat, making toxoplasmosis one of the most clinically significant food-borne diseases in pregnant women. This article describes the results of a 2003 survey of pregnant Minnesota women through which we determined their knowledge of toxoplasmosis and ways to prevent it during pregnancy. Fewer than half of respondents had heard about toxoplasmosis, although higher education levels were significantly associated with knowledge about the disease.