Knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward atherosclerosis and ultrasound screening in adults in Shanghai

Abstract

This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding atherosclerosis ultrasound screening among adults in the general population of Shanghai. A cross-sectional study was conducted from April 5 to May 30, 2024, at the Department of Ultrasound Medicine, Shanghai Eighth People's Hospital, involving the general public. An investigator-designed questionnaire collected demographic information and KAP scores. Path analysis was performed to assess the relationships between overall KAP scores, with subgroup analysis for participants with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD). A total of 617 valid questionnaires were analyzed, revealing a high reliability coefficient of 0.949. Mean KAP scores were as follows: knowledge 9.73 ± 5.80 (/24, 40.54%), attitude 56.38 ± 10.94 (/65, 86.74%), and practice 21.66 ± 5.54 (/35, 61.89%), indicating poor knowledge but positive attitudes and proactive practices. Knowledge significantly influenced both attitude (β = 0.354, P = 0.028) and practice (β = 0.357, P = 0.021). In participants with CVD, mean scores were 11.14 ± 4.10 for knowledge, 59.69 ± 11.94 for attitude, and 23.17 ± 5.32 for practice. In the general Shanghai population, knowledge about atherosclerosis ultrasound screening is poor, yet attitudes are positive, and practices are proactive. Targeted educational interventions are necessary to enhance knowledge and attitudes, thus improving screening practices.

Keywords: Atherosclerosis; Health knowledge, attitude, practice; Screening; Ultrasound.

Fig. 1

The study flowchart.

Fig. 2

Path analysis. (A) Whole study population. (B) Participants with atherosclerosis cardiovascular disease.