Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors of the Residents of Karangrejo Village In Semarang Towards Morbus Hansen

Abstract

Introduction: Morbus Hansen is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium leprae which mainly attacks the skin and peripheral nerves. Social stigma has become a major factor causing delays in Morbus Hansen patients in seeking treatment. Objective: To analyze the knowledge, attitudes, and behavior of the community towards Morbus Hansen patients in Semarang. Method: This study is a descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional design conducted in Semarang in March-April 2025. The purposive sampling method was used to obtain respondents who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The number of subjects in this study was 50 respondents. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire. The data were then analyzed using SPSS. Results: Respondents' knowledge generally showed quite good results. Respondents' attitudes and behavior tended to be positive. A significant relationship was obtained between attitudes towards behavior (p<0.01), while there was no significant relationship between knowledge and behavior (p=0.275). Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between attitudes towards community behavior regarding Morbus Hansen with a strong positive direction and strength.