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Children's knowledge and beliefs about medicines.
Omar Thanoon Dawood1, Mohamed Izham Mohamed Ibrahim2, Anna Christina Abdullah3
1Universiti Sains Malaysia, Malaysia othd2000@yahoo.com.
Summary
Children often have incorrect beliefs about medicine efficacy. This study highlights the need for better medicine education for young people, involving healthcare professionals to improve knowledge and safe medication practices.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Health Education
Background:
- Minor illnesses in children are frequently managed at home using over-the-counter medications.
- Children often lack medical advice regarding their medications from healthcare professionals.
- Understanding children's perspectives on medicines is crucial for effective health education.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the beliefs and knowledge of schoolchildren regarding the efficacy of medicines.
- To identify factors influencing children's understanding of medication.
- To inform the development of targeted medicine education programs for children.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted in primary schools on Penang Island, Malaysia.
- Data were collected from 1000 schoolchildren (11-12 years old) and 1000 parents using self-administered questionnaires.
- Statistical analysis examined the relationship between demographics, socioeconomic factors, and children's medicine beliefs.
Main Results:
- A significant proportion of children demonstrated inadequate knowledge and held misconceptions about medicine efficacy.
- Children's beliefs were influenced by age, gender, and race, with females, older children, and Chinese participants showing greater knowledge.
- Socioeconomic status, parental education, and occupation significantly impacted children's understanding of medicines (p < .001).
Conclusions:
- Children possess misconceptions regarding the efficacy and use of medicines.
- There is a clear need for structured medicine education programs for children.
- Enhanced involvement of healthcare professionals in educating children about medicines is recommended.
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