Conocimiento, prácticas y actitudes de la comunidad sobre la prevención del dengue en la provincia Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas

Objective: The level of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the population for dengue prevention in the province of Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas was determined, given the relevance of this vector-borne disease in tropical contexts. Methodology: A quantitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 415 participants selected from a population of 492,969 inhabitants; the data were collected using a structured CAP-type questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics. Results: The population has an adequate level of general knowledge about dengue and positive attitudes toward its prevention. However, it was observed that preventive practices are applied partially and irregularly, especially regarding community participation and the constant elimination of breeding sites. Differences between the cantons were also noted. Conclusions: There is a difference between what is known and what is done. Therefore, it is necessary to improve participatory educational strategies that promote lasting changes in community behavior, tailored to each location.