Demographic Predictors of Lyme Disease Knowledge Among Parents in a Highly Endemic Area

Lyme disease is a growing public health concern in the United States. Despite higher rates of infection among children and disseminated disease among racial minorities, few studies have investigated the role of health care inequities on tick-borne disease knowledge among parents.

We conducted a single-center, cross-sectional, anonymous survey of tick-borne disease recognition and prevention strategies among English- and Spanish-speaking parents/caregivers in a region of high Lyme disease incidence (Long Island, New York). Survey questions consisted of demographics, knowledge assessment, and tick bite prevention practices. Survey responses were analyzed with descriptive statistics and a multivariable logistic regression model to identify associations between participant characteristics and a calculated knowledge score.

In total, 120 participants completed the survey, including 95 (79.2%) English speakers and 25 (20.8%) Spanish speakers. Of these, 72 participants (60%) answered all 4 knowledge questions correctly, and 94 (78.3%) answered 75% of the knowledge questions correctly. English language preference was associated with higher knowledge scores on univariate but not multivariable analysis. Multivariable analysis identified Hispanic or Latino race/ethnicity, lower household income, and fewer years of residence on Long Island as predictors of lower Lyme disease knowledge scores.

Our findings highlight the role of adverse social determinants of health on Lyme disease risk, underscoring the need for focused educational interventions on high-risk populations.