Effects of behavior modification program for liver fluke prevention based on transformative learning theory among people in Koksaard Sub-district, Numkhun District, Ubon Ratchathani Province

Abstract

This research is quasi-experimental research. The objective of this research was to study the effect of a behavior modification program for liver fluke prevention with people in Koksaard Sub-district, Numkhun District, Ubon Ratchathani Province on the prevention of liver fluke disease based on transformative learning theory.  The sample consisted of 67 people with infected liver flukes who and received medication. They were divided into 2 groups, 31 people were in the experimental group and also 36 people were control group. The experimental group participated in the 12-week liver fluke prevention program. The control group did not participate in any program and have normal daily life. Three types of instruments were used in this study: 1) a behavior modification program for liver fluke prevention based on transformative learning theory 2) Kato's thick smear method for detecting liver fluke, and 3) data collection tools (1) interviews form, (2) knowledge test, (3) dietary behavior change log book, and (4) risk assessment form for liver fluke disease SUT-OV-001. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-test and independent t-test at a significant level of 0.05. The results showed that scores of knowledge, health beliefs, attitudes, and preventive behaviors for liver fluke disease after participating the program of the experimental group were higher than before and higher than in the control group with statistics significant at 0.05 level (p < 0.001). And none in the experimental group had recurrent liver fluke infection compared to the control group. It can be concluded that the program had an effect on knowledge, health beliefs, attitudes, and preventive behaviors for liver fluke disease. Learning from the experiences of other people, empowerment, sharing, and continuous follow-up were key success factors. As a result, the experimental group had better behavior in preventing liver fluke disease.