Physicians’ Knowledge and Attitudes Toward Strongyloidiasis: A Preliminary Study at a Malaysian Tertiary Hospital

Strongyloidiasis, a neglected tropical disease targeted in the World Health Organisation (WHO) Roadmap 2021-2030 for prevention and control, poses significant health risks particularly to immunocompromised individuals. Despite its clinical significance, strongyloidiasis remains under-recognised in many healthcare settings. Physician awareness and knowledge are critical for timely diagnosis and effective management. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge among physicians regarding strongyloidiasis and to identify key factors influencing their awareness and clinical preparedness. A cross-sectional study involving 70 physicians at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was conducted using a validated questionnaire to assess sociodemographics, familiarity and knowledge of Strongyloides infection. Knowledge scores were categorised using Bloom’s taxonomy and analysed via Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Despite its rarity, 41% of physicians exhibited adequate knowledge. Familiarity (50%), treating immunocompromised patients (45%) and tropical disease training (56%) correlated with higher knowledge, though not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Neither clinical experience (38%) nor advanced qualifications (40%) conferred a notable advantage. These preliminary findings suggest potential gaps in physician knowledge, though the lack of statistical significance and small sample size warrant cautious interpretation.