Knowledge, attitude, and practices on endocrine disrupting chemicals in pregnancy among healthcare professionals in obstetrics and gynecology in a tertiary hospital: A cross-sectional survey study

INTRODUCTION: Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can interfere with hormonal homeostasis and cause adverse fetomaternal outcomes in pregnancy. To date, there are no published local studies on knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of healthcare professionals in obstetrics and gynecology (OBGYN) on EDCs in pregnancy. OBJECTIVES: To determine the KAPs on EDCs in pregnancy among healthcare professionals in OBGYN in a tertiary hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional survey study design. A questionnaire was constructed de novo and was validated using content and face validity. The survey proper was conducted among healthcare professionals. RESULTS: There were a total of 222 participants, 36% of which were practicing obstetricians. Overall, 45% had good, 33% had moderate, and 22% had poor knowledge on EDCs in pregnancy. The overall attitude was good (mean 4.35), but practice was poor (mean 2.06). There was a significant association between knowledge and practice on EDCs in pregnancy ( P = 0.001). Most were aware of EDCs and their common sources. However, many were not able to answer theoretical questions correctly. Opinions were divided on whether environmental health history taking is time-consuming and EDC counseling is anxiety-causing. Majority had a positive attitude toward EDC awareness and were willing to start patient education and counseling. CONCLUSIONS: There was an overall moderate knowledge, good attitude but poor practice with regard EDCs. The knowledge level correlated significantly with practice scores. There is still insufficient information being disseminated about EDCs both in the scientific community and the public. There is a growing need for evidence-based research to supplement education and push for public awareness.