Unveiling Knowledge, Attitudes, and Preventive Practices Toward Dengue Among Residents of Rangpur City, Bangladesh: A...

Dengue (DG) is a growing global public health threat. Bangladesh continues to endure an increasing burden despite persistent vector-control initiatives. Effective DG prevention relies on adequate community knowledge, favorable attitudes, and sustained protective practices. However, evidence on DG-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) remains limited for residents of Rangpur City Corporation (RpCC), Bangladesh.

This study aims to evaluate DG-related KAP and identified socio-demographic determinants of preventive behaviors among RpCC residents.

A cross-sectional survey was performed among 609 adults using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Associations were examined using χ², ANOVA, or Fisher's exact tests, while univariate and multivariable logistic regression identified predictors of KAP outcomes.

Most respondents perceived their residences as moderately safe from DG. One-fifth reported prior DG experience, with significantly higher reporting among older respondents and males (p < 0.05). Good knowledge was strongly associated with favorable attitudes (OR = 3.35; 95% CI: 2.31-5.07) and practices (OR = 2.22; 95% CI: 1.72-2.96). Female respondents showed better attitudes and practices than males. Residents of mixed or low-rise housing, along with those with lower education or unemployment, exhibited weaker KAP profiles, indicating potential dengue risk hotspots.

These findings reveal a persistent knowledge-practice gap, underscoring the need for context-specific, community-centered dengue control in RpCC. Targeted risk communication and stronger community-municipal coordination may enhance sustained preventive behaviors and dengue control effectiveness.