Awareness of Child Sexual Abuse and the Protection of Children From Sexual Offences Act Among Medical and Paramedical Students in Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh

Background: Child sexual abuse (CSA) remains a pervasive public health and human rights concern in India, with healthcare professionals occupying a critical position in early identification, reporting, and legal compliance. Adequate awareness of CSA and familiarity with the Protection of Children From Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act remain essential for effective child protection. Objectives: This study assessed awareness regarding the status of CSA and evaluated knowledge of the POCSO Act among medical and paramedical students in a government medical college in central India. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among 278 medical and paramedical students. A validated, structured tool comprising two sections assessed awareness of CSA and knowledge of the POCSO Act. Responses were scored and categorized into predefined levels. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: Awareness of CSA remained inadequate across both groups, with no participant demonstrating complete awareness. Most medical students exhibited inadequate awareness, while a substantial proportion of paramedical students remained unaware. Knowledge of the POCSO Act was predominantly moderate, with medical students demonstrating comparatively better understanding than paramedical students. Gaps were evident in knowledge related to mandatory reporting, legal procedures, and disclosure dynamics, despite high recognition of the Act’s existence. Conclusion: The findings reveal significant deficiencies in awareness and legal preparedness among future healthcare professionals. Integrating structured, practical, and legally oriented training on CSA and the POCSO Act within medical and paramedical curricula is imperative to strengthen early detection, reporting, and child protection outcomes.