Abstract
BACKGROUND: Ayurveda students in India learn Dinacarya practices (daily routines) during BAMS course (Undergraduate Ayurveda medical education course), with limited research on its awareness and adoption. A valid database on Knowledge-Attitude Practice (KAP) status of Dinacarya practices is ideal for self-evaluation and further student improvement. OBJECTIVE: To assess the KAP status of selected Dinacarya practices among BAMS students in Kerala. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study among 216 students aged 18-27 years, using stratified two-stage sampling from two strata - Government/Aided and Private Ayurveda colleges in Kerala (7 colleges). Semi constructed KAP questionnaire on selected ten Dinacarya developed through literature review, focus group discussion (FGD),content and face validity checking. Population estimates calculated using survey weights and Multiple linear regression (MLR) to identify predictors of KAP components and composite scores was used. RESULT: Population-weighted mean K, A, P and total KAP scores of Dinacarya came to 6.65 (SE=0.48), 3.25 (SE=0.22), -5.01 (SE=0.29) and 4.89 (SE=0.61) respectively. MLR analysis revealed that knowledge was primarily determined by institutional factors, attitude reflects lifestyle pathways and Practice projects multilayered predictors encompassing environmental and institutional factors. CONCLUSION: Weighted KAP analysis revealed knowledge scores exceeding attitude and practice scores, indicating a knowledge-practice gap. Institutional entity emerged as overall determinant, residence type and psychological disposition are crucial factors.Health behaviors practice progressively decline with advancement in academic years.