Assessment of knowledge and attitude of mothers of children admitted with jaundice in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Jaundice is a common clinical condition marked by yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera due to bilirubin accumulation. It results from various hepatic, biliary, or hemolytic disorders. In Bangladesh, viral hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B infection, is a major cause. Beyond medical issues, jaundice is often linked to social stigma, misconceptions, and psychological distress. Studies in other countries show negative public attitudes and poor awareness about jaundice. However, limited data exist in Bangladesh regarding community perceptions. This study was therefore conducted to assess the knowledge and attitude of mothers of children admitted with jaundice, aiming to identify gaps and guide future health education efforts. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Pediatrics, North East Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, from June 2024 to June 2025. Mothers of children admitted with jaundice were interviewed using a predesigned structured questionnaire covering sociodemographic information, knowledge, and attitudes toward childhood jaundice. Trained physicians conducted the interviews to ensure accuracy. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Continuous variables were summarized as mean ± standard deviation, and categorical variables as frequencies and percentages. Results were presented in tables and figures for clarity. Results: Among 46 mothers, most were aged 21–30 years (78.3%), educated (76.1%), and from joint families (76.1%). While 95.3% had heard of jaundice, only 54.3% recognized yellow skin/eyes as a symptom, and knowledge of causes, complications, and treatment was limited. Phototherapy and modern medicine were known to 63% and 52.2%, respectively. Regarding attitude, 39.1% considered jaundice transmissible, 34.8% were willing to work with patients, 54.3% supported school/work attendance, and 67.4% opposed marriage. Most (65.2%) preferred modern treatment. Overall, awareness was high but knowledge and attitudes were incomplete. Conclusion: Mothers’ knowledge and attitudes are crucial for early recognition, timely treatment, and prevention of childhood jaundice complications. Misconceptions can delay care, highlighting the need for targeted education on causes, warning signs, and preventive measures. Structured counseling and community awareness programs can improve maternal understanding, treatment adherence, and child health outcomes.