Knowledge, attitude and practice intention about family planning and population related issues among medical undergraduates in the National University of Malaysia (UKM)‎

Abstract EN

Information about the knowledge and practices of family planning received increased attention worldwide and is of practical use to policy makers and programme administrators for formulating policies and strategies.

A clear understanding of human population growth, and family planning consumption patterns, and their effects on the nations, particularly amongst future professionals, is essential for their intension regarding future family planning practices.

This study aimed to determine and compare the knowledge, attitudes and intension of the 2nd and 5th year medical students of the National University of Malaysia about family planning, abortion, and some population issues.

Through a cross–sectional approach, 276 undergraduate medical students in the university in the academic year 2006–2007 completed an anonymous self–administered pre–tested questionnaire of closed and open ended questions.

The three–point Likert scale was used to specify the agreement of students about doing abortion to women and the Malaysian population policy.

The results show that all methods were mentioned by a higher percentage of 5th year students compared to 2nd year students with a significant difference for most methods.

Oral contraceptive pills were the most common family planning method known to students followed by condoms..

The study provides evidence that advancement in medical education was associated with significant improvement in students، knowledge and attitudes towards family planning, abortion and population issues although there is still a gap in students‟ knowledge.

Medical education was also positively associated with the future practice intention of students about their use of family planning methods and their involvement in family planning programmes.

The need to intensify the provided health information and the practical formal medical training of undergraduate students regarding family health, family planning, and population dynamics was indicated.

Keywords: Family planning, population policy, Malaysia