Document Type : Research Articles
Authors
1
Department of Public Health, Faculty of Public Health, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
2
Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
3
The Office of Disease Prevention and Control 10, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand.
4
Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Public Health, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand
Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to develop and evaluate a community-based social innovation to prevent Opisthorchis viverrini (OV) infection and cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), which are critical public health challenges in northeastern Thailand. Methods: A research and development (R&D) approach was implemented across five provinces in Thailand’s 10th Health Region. The intervention, “3 Health for a CCA-Free Society,” focused on three domains: Health Behaviors, Health Hygiene, and Environmental Health. A manual-based innovation was co-developed through community engagement and expert collaboration. Using a quasi-experimental pre-post design, its effectiveness was evaluated in a prototype area that was randomly selected from the five provinces (n = 56). Structured questionnaires assessed participants’ knowledge, health beliefs, and preventive behaviors. Paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were applied to evaluate changes. Satisfaction was assessed using the Context, Input, Process, and Product (CIPP) model. Results: Statistically significant improvements were found in knowledge (mean increase = 0.47, p < 0.001), health beliefs (mean increase = 3.92, p < 0.001), and preventive behaviors (mean increase = 3.07, p < 0.001). Satisfaction scores were high across all CIPP domains (mean = 4.88 ± 0.26). The manual was rated clear, relevant, and culturally appropriate, indicating strong potential for broader application. Conclusion: This community-based social innovation significantly improved OV and CCA prevention outcomes in a high-risk area. The approach is feasible, scalable, and aligned with national strategies for participatory disease prevention. Further studies should explore its long-term impact and the potential for digital adaptation for broader dissemination.
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