A Study to Assess the Awareness and Attitude Regarding Cirrhosis of Liver Among Arts and Science College Students in Selected Colleges, Bengaluru

Abstract

Introduction: Cirrhosis is a complication of many liver diseases characterized by abnormal structure and function of the liver. The diseases that lead to cirrhosis do so because they injure and kill liver cells, after which the inflammation and repair that are associated with the dying liver cells cause formation of scar tissue. The liver cells that do not die multiply in an attempt to replace the cells that have died. This results in clusters of newly formed liver cells (regenerative nodules) within the scar tissue. Objective of the study: To assess the existing awareness and attitude regarding cirrhosis of liver among arts and science college students. Methods: The research design adopted for this study was non-experimental descriptive correlation design, with the sample size of 40 students studying in Padmashree Institute of Management and Sciences, Bengaluru. The sampling technique used was probability simple random sampling technique. The tool used were Section A – socio-demographic performa of the arts and science college students, Section B – structured knowledge questionnaire regarding cirrhosis of liver, and Section C – Likert’s attitude scale regarding cirrhosis of liver. Data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The sample of 40 was assessed regarding their awareness and attitude regarding cirrhosis of liver; a majority of the students had inadequate awareness 22 (55%). Regarding the attitude level, 19 (47.5%) had neutral attitude. Conclusion: The results reveal that a maximum number 22 (55%) of them were having inadequate awareness regarding cirrhosis of liver, 18 (45%) of them have moderate adequate awareness regarding cirrhosis of liver, and none of them have adequate awareness regarding cirrhosis of liver. Among the total of 40, a majority of 19 (47.5%) have neutral attitude (50–75), 15 (37.5%) have favorable attitude (>75) and only 6 (15%) have unfavorable attitude (<50) regarding cirrhosis of liver.