Evaluating the Disparities in Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices towards Haemorrhoids: Insights from Rural and Urban Populations of Kolhapur District, Maharashtra, India

Background: Haemorrhoids (piles) are a common condition characterized by anal discomfort, bleeding, and swelling due to dilated veins in the anal canal. Studies show that despite a high prevalence, delayed diagnosis is common due to lack of awareness and psychosocial stigma. This study aimed to compare knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding haemorrhoids among rural and urban populations of Kolhapur. Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted with 262 participants from rural and urban areas of Kolhapur district, screened using a closed-ended, self-structured questionnaire. Out of which 56 participants (rural 30, urban 26) met inclusion criteria were considered for the study. Data was collected digitally through google forms and analyzed using Microsoft excel and SPSS. Results: Independent t-tests showed no difference between KAP scores among rural and urban groups of Kolhapur district. Mean scores were low with overall knowledge 36% (rural 27%, urban 26%), attitude 21% (rural 29%, urban 27%) slightly higher in rural participants (29% vs 27%), and reported poor practices at 24% (rural 22%, urban 23%) Conclusion: This study concludes that there is no difference in the KAP among rural and urban groups. Most respondents had good awareness about symptoms of haemorrhoids but overall knowledge was poor. Many participants held misconceptions and showed negative attitudes toward hygiene, care, and were hesitant to seek help. Practices were suboptimal in both groups, like taking high-fibre diet was in higher percentages in urban respondents, adequate hydration were reported at low levels in both groups.