Knowledge and attitude of neonatal jaundice – Orang Asli perspective

Abstract

The incidence of neonatal jaundice among aborigines is increasing with the morbidity and mortality among this group are well recognized. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and attitude status on neonatal jaundice among Orang Asli in Sepang, Selangor. Cross-sectional study was conducted within two weeks in Kampung Orang Asli in Sg. Pelek, Sepang, Selangor. A simple random sample of adults aged 18 years and above was selected. Data were collected by an interviewed structured questionnaire. Overall, out of 152 residents, 67% were aware about neonatal jaundice. Majority of them were female (72%), married (78.4%) and respondents who have children (86%). Among those who were aware, almost 68% have good knowledge, in which 70% recognized jaundice by yellow discoloration on the body. High pitched crying (12.7%) and not feeding (10.8%) were among symptoms they knew. Almost 50% of the respondents believed neonatal jaundice may cause mental retardation. As for management of neonatal jaundice at home, majority of them (47%) will expose the baby under the sun, 7.8% will take herbal medication whereas 2% will continue with breast feeding. Almost eighty percent of the respondents will send their jaundiced baby to the hospital immediately, whereas 23% prefer management by nurse at home. Although majority of respondents in Kg. Orang Asli Sg. Pelek have good knowledge & good attitude on neonatal jaundice, some mothers are still likely to resort to self-treatment with potentially harmful therapies.