Applying and comparing the standard health model and BASNEF model in predicting preventive behaviors of cutaneous leishmaniasis in students of Neyshabur city

Preventive measures such as training and preventive people skills are for personal protection in endemic areas that the aim of this study was to determine the predictors of preventive behaviors of cutaneous leishmaniasis in students based on Health Belief Model and BASNEF model.

In this descriptive-analytical study, 379 students of Neyshabur city were selected and studied by multistage cluster sampling. A questionnaire was designed to collect data and was completed based on the study patterns.

Significant correlation (P <.01) was found between all constructs of the models except perceived sensitivity and awareness with behavioral intention. Comparing the two models studied, the BASNEF model constructs predicted 32% of the total and the Behavioral belief model constructs 24% of the variance in intention to prevent leishmaniasis behaviors.

The prevalence of Leishmaniasis prevention behaviors in the studied community was moderate, which should be improved through educational interventions given that the disease is endemic in Neyshabur. Training programs aimed at enhancing attitudes, abstract norms, self-efficacy and perceived benefits as well as reducing perceived barriers can be effective in promoting leishmaniasis prevention behaviors.