Knowledge Regarding Biological Terrorism among Medical Physicians in Goa

Abstract

Introduction:The danger of using biological warfare for mass destruction is a serious threat to this country. Thus, it is necessary that our health care services are prepared to efficiently manage any such unfortunate events that we may have to face in future. Physicians in the public and private sector of health services are the first point of contact between public and health services. Thus, the present study examines the awareness of medical physicians in Goa about biological terrorism to evaluate the need for further education in this field. Methods:The present cross-sectional study was conducted among the medical physicians in Goa using purposive sampling method. The self-administered questionnaire collected information regarding the qualification, work setting of the study participants and knowledge regarding biological terrorism. Data was entered and analysed using SPSS version 22. Descriptive statistics was utilized to study frequencies and proportion of various study variables.Results: Of the 200 study participants, 128 (64%) were Specialist doctors, 65 (32.5%) were General physicians, while 7 (3.5%) were Super-specialist doctors. Of the 200 study participants, 174 (87%) reported that they were aware of the use of biological agent for mass destruction of human lives. As much as 34 (17%) study participants could not list any agent of bioterrorism. Conclusion:The knowledge of medical physician in Goa regarding bioterrorism is low, which is a matter of concern as these medical professionals are the first point of contact for the patients affected by an attack of bioterrorism.