Healthcare Providers’ Insights Into Human T‐Cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1: A Descriptive Cross‐Sectional Analysis of Knowledge and Practice Gaps

OpenAlex İngilizce

OBJECTIVE: Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is a retrovirus associated with severe health complications. Due to Turkey's proximity to high-prevalence regions and ongoing migration, this study explored healthcare professionals' knowledge, awareness, and practices related to HTLV-1. DESIGN: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study. SAMPLE: The study was conducted in two hospitals in Istanbul between December 2023 and November 2024, with a total of 759 participants. MEASUREMENTS: Disproportionate stratified random sampling was used to select nurses and laboratory technicians, while convenience sampling was applied to physicians and allied health professionals. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, and HTLV-1-related knowledge, awareness, and practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27, with statistical significance set at p < 0.005. RESULTS: Participants included nurses (63.4%), lab technicians (20.8%), allied health professionals (9.1%), and physicians (6.7%). The overall mean knowledge score was 3.94/14 (SD = 1.97), indicating low levels across all groups, though physicians scored highest. Awareness and adherence to practices varied significantly by profession. CONCLUSION: There are critical knowledge and awareness gaps, especially among nurses and lab technicians. Integrating HTLV-1 content into education, offering targeted training, and using digital platforms can help improve practice and patient safety.