A Sequential, Explanatory Mixed-Methods Approach for Assessment of Non-Communicable Diseases Knowledge and Its Associated Behavioral Preventive Measures among In-Schools Adolescents in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Introduction: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mainly cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases are becoming public health concern with cardio vascular diseases being the leading causes of deaths. NCDs have long being associated to aging and mostly recorded in developed countries but recent studies have shown a significant increase in developing countries and adolescent group. Hence, assessing Knowledge level of non-communicable diseases and its associated behavioral prevention practices is important to shade light on community, household and individual factors that contribute to NCDs and help to inform and guide national discussion and promote evidence decision making to shape programmes, policies and plans focusing on reduction of NCDs among adolescent. Objective: To assess the Knowledge level of NCDs and its associated behavioral prevention practices among in-school adolescents in Dar es salaam city and Kinondoni districts, Tanzania, 2024. Methods: This study employed a mixed-methods sequential explanatory design, conducted from February 2024 to May 2024, focusing on adolescents in Ordinary level secondary school. Data collection involved a structured, researcher-administered questionnaire for quantitative information and in-depth interviews for qualitative insights. The findings were presented as frequencies, proportions, and median values. Spearman's rank correlation was utilized to evaluate the relationships between prevention practices and knowledge. Findings: The quantitative phase included approximately 400 participants, representing an anticipated 80% response rate, while 16 respondents completed the qualitative phase. The study revealed that 11.25% of participants demonstrated high knowledge about NCDs. In both phases, healthy diet and physical exercise were identified as prevention practices associated with high knowledge levels, although these correlations were not particularly strong. Conclusion: The knowledge level was poor. Hence, this highlights a potential need for increased public health education campaigns or resources to improve knowledge level regarding NCD among adolescents in secondary school.