Home⇛Health Sciences Journal⇛vol. 13 no. 2 (2024)

Knowledge, attitude and practices of college students in a public university on microplastics and its health effects: a cross-sectional study

Angela S Angela | Veronica M Acejo | Nur Haron A Adiong II | Jerome R Morgan | Gabrielle Alexandra L Aguilar | Bea Camille G Agustin | Dean Lotus C Alano | Alyssa Aindrea S Alarilla | Aelijah Julliane P Alcantara | Ixzi Thia T Alforque | Elyka Charlette E Antonino | Alyanna Teresa Q Apostol | Ainjelou Marie E Arce | Kenneth Von B Areta | Kiara Rossanne F Aroza | Joshua Noel Fernando C Arzadon | Donaliz R Garcia | Milagros B. Rabe

Discipline: medicine by specialism

 

Abstract:

Background Microplastics pose a significant environmental and health threat, yet the understanding and response of young adults to this issue remain underexplored. There is an increasing amount of microplastics in our environment and as the numbers grow, the danger that comes with it is still not fully understood. This study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of young adults in Muntinlupa, particularly students of a public university regarding microplastics and their health implications. Methods Employing a quantitative cross-sectional design, the research targeted college students aged 18 and older. Results Findings revealed that while students were knowledgeable about microplastics—particularly their harmful effects on health—attitudes and practices related to plastic disposal and recycling could be improved. Although the majority engaged in proper garbage disposal, only 41.5% consistently separated plastic waste from biodegradable materials. However, a weak positive correlation between knowledge and attitudes was observed, suggesting that increased awareness may enhance positive attitudes toward reducing microplastic pollution. Conclusion These results suggest that while students are aware of microplastics and generally responded positively, there remains a gap in the translation of knowledge into practices, highlighting the need for enhanced educational interventions.



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