Assessment of Knowledge regarding Aluminum Phosphide (Rice Tablet) Uses and Hazards among Women at Assiut District Villages

Background: Aluminum phosphide (AlP) or Rice tablet is one of the most lethal poisoning in Egypt, with high mortality rate. AlP hazards are known with no specific antidote exist. Nearly 300,000 people die due to AlP poisoning in the world every year. AlP usage is quite common in the rural areas, causing serious health issues and in some cases fatalities. Aim of the study: Assess the women's knowledge regarding AlP uses and hazards at Assuit District Villages. Methodology: Cross sectional community-based study was used, that included 425 women. Sample: A multistage sampling procedures was applied at Assuit district villages. Tools: An interviewer questionnaire was used. It included personal characteristics, medical history and knowledge about AlP uses and hazards. Results: the majority of studied women had low knowledge scores (86.8%) while only (13.2%) had moderate knowledge scores regarding AlP uses and hazards. The association between knowledge and personal characteristics data indicates statistically significant differences between knowledge and who having chronic diseases. Conclusion: A low level of knowledge regarding AlP uses and hazards was detected among rural women. Recommendations: There is a need for continuous AlP educational programs for rural women to increase their awareness regarding AlP uses and hazards.