A community based intervention to modify preventive behaviors of cutaneous leishmaniasis in children: a randomized controlled trial based on PRECEDE PROCEED model

Abstract Objectives Iran ranks among the top six countries globally with a significant incidence of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL). Using planning models is one community-based intervention to promote preventive behaviors. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model (PPM) in modifying preventive behaviors related to CL in children through mother training in a community intervention. Methods A randomized controlled trial based on the PPM model was conducted on 168 mothers (intervention (n = 84) and control group (n = 84) with 10 years old children in the rural areas of Iran. Mothers from 7 village areas were randomly allocated to the intervention (2 village) and control groups (5 village). The intervention group received a program comprising eight 90-minute training sessions and environmental interventions. In this study, we utilized the PPM as a framework to design the questionnaires on Leishmaniosis prevention behavior. Participants in both groups completed the questionnaires at baseline (before the intervention), immediately after the intervention, and at the 2-month follow-up. Analysis of the data was conducted utilizing SPSS20, with statistical significance set at p 0.05) were observed in the alterations of the PPM construct, knowledge, and preventive behaviors within the control group from pre-intervention to follow-up. Conclusions Community (education and environmental) intervention based on PPM is feasible and acceptable to modify preventive behaviors of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in children by increasing a mother’s knowledge and attitude as well as changing enabling and reinforcing factors. Trial registration IRCT20160619028529N8.