Genetic and common disease awareness, risk perception, and health behavior among the Thai population aged 15-60 in Bangkok: A study

Authors

  • Sujimon Mungkalarungsi Independent researcher
  • Teeridsara Laouhulaikul Darunsikkhalai School for Innovative Learning
  • Rachata Kunakitkumjohn Harrow International School
  • Rashida Rattanavicha Demonstration School of Khon Kaen University, Secondary School
  • Kridsanut Kitsanguan King Mongkut's International Demonstration School
  • Wish Boonmee Suankularb Wittayalai School
  • Tippnant Treesirinate Demonstration School of Khon Kaen University, Secondary School

Keywords:

Genetic and common disease, awareness, risk perception

Abstract

Bangkok’s diverse population and health challenges require a focus on genetic and common disease awareness, risk perception, and health behavior among individuals aged 15-60. Despite healthcare advancements, the city faces public health issues due to rapid urbanization and lifestyle changes, leading to chronic diseases.
To assess level of awareness, risk perception of genetic and common diseases and health promoting behavior among Thai people in Bangkok, 15-60. And to study the relationships between genetic and common disease awareness, risk perception, and health behavior. This study is a cross-sectional study, collected data by using an online survey (Google Form) during 27th Febth - 27 Mar 2024. Population was people aged 15-60 years old who live in Bangkok.
The result showed that from a total of 392 participants majority was female (72.70%), with a significant portion aged of 45-54 years old (30.36%). Majority of educational level of participants was holding Bachelor’s degrees (41.58%). Their occupations were mainly students (30%). Social media was main source of health information (49.49%) of participants. Furthermore, 84.95% had never undergone genetic testing. Concerning genetic and common disease awareness, most participants showed a moderate level of awareness (44.65%), and majority of them reported a high level of risk perception (61.48%).
Statistical analysis disclosed positive correlations between genetic and common disease awareness, risk perception, and health behavior. Specifically, significant associations were found between genetic and common disease awareness and risk perception (r=.210**, p < 0.01), genetic and common disease awareness and health behavior (r=.123*, p < 0.05), and risk perception and health behavior (r=.662**, p < 0.01). From the analysis risk perception (Beta= .656, p < 0.01) was factors that could predict health behavior 65.6%
Health education should emphasize that lifestyle factors often outweigh genetics in disease prevention. Accurate information should be shared widely. Healthcare providers should offer personalized advice, promoting healthy habits like good nutrition and exercise. Community initiatives and media campaigns can support these messages. Combining genetic and lifestyle information empowers informed health decisions.

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Published

2024-12-27

How to Cite

Mungkalarungsi, S., Laouhulaikul, T. ., Kunakitkumjohn, R. ., Rattanavicha, R. ., Kitsanguan, K. ., Boonmee, W. ., & Treesirinate, T. . (2024). Genetic and common disease awareness, risk perception, and health behavior among the Thai population aged 15-60 in Bangkok: A study. UBRU Journal for Public Health Research, 13(3), 88–98. retrieved from https://he02.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/ubruphjou/article/view/269091

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ORIGINAL ARTICLES