Knowledge and practices related to wound care among rural adults in Aligarh, India: a cross-sectional study

Background: Wounds are common in rural Indian communities, often due to occupational hazards and accidents. Although evidence-based acute wound care guidelines exist, local beliefs, limited resources, and low awareness often lead to traditional remedies of uncertain safety and efficacy. Proper wound care is essential to prevent infection, delayed healing, and complications. This study aimed to assess wound care knowledge and practices among rural adults in Aligarh district and examine their association with educational status. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2026 among 378 adults aged ≥18 years in a village served by the Rural Health Training Centre of J. N. Medical College, Aligarh. Participants were selected by systematic random sampling. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, wound care knowledge, and practices. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used, with p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Of the participants, 55.3% were female and 62.2% were illiterate or educated up to primary level. Nearly half (49%) used traditional substances such as turmeric, ash, or toothpaste on wounds. Only 19.8% cleaned wounds with plain water, 19.0% with soap and water, 38% knew about tetanus prophylaxis, and 30.9% sought medical consultation within 24 hours. Higher education was significantly associated with correct wound care practices (p<0.001). Conclusions: The study shows major gaps in wound care knowledge and practices among rural adults in Aligarh, with education influencing safer practices. Community-based education and integration of WHO wound care guidance into primary healthcare are needed to improve outcomes.