Abstract
BACKGROUND: Undergraduate healthcare students are future frontline communicators in India's effort to eliminate lymphatic filariasis (LF) through mass drug administration (MDA). This study assessed their perception and practices regarding LF and MDA in an endemic tertiary care setting in Eastern India. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in April 2024 among 465 medical and nursing undergraduates using a 39-item self-administered questionnaire. Knowledge scores were calculated for LF (0-20), MDA (0-19), and total (0-39). Data on MDA compliance, drug intake practices, and adverse reactions were also collected. RESULTS: The mean total knowledge score was 21.2 ± 5.9, with LF and MDA scores of 8.9 ± 3.4 and 12.2 ± 3.7, respectively. Only 37.6% correctly identified 2027 as India's LF elimination target, and 34.8% were aware of the recommended triple-drug regimen. Although 85.6% reported MDA intake, 25.4% did not follow correct consumption protocols. Among those who took drugs on an empty stomach, 46.9% reported adverse drug reactions versus 26.0% of others (p < 0.001); nausea (39.3%) and headache (29.9%) were most common. Knowledge scores were significantly higher among older students (≥24 years: 24.0 ± 5.5 vs. 18-19 years: 19.5 ± 5.5; p < 0.001), medical stream (21.8 ± 6.0 vs. 18.9 ± 5.2; p < 0.001), and consistent MDA participants (23.7 ± 4.9 vs. 12.5 ± 3.9; p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Despite high MDA coverage, significant gaps exist in knowledge and appropriate drug use. Targeted training and curricular integration are essential to strengthen undergraduate engagement in LF elimination.