Parsa Veisi, Mohammad Yasaghi, Seyedeh Delafruz Hosseini, Morteza Movahedi, Ali Nateghi, Alijan Tabarraei,
Volume 20, Issue 4 (9-2026)
Abstract
Introduction:
Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is the most common congenital infection worldwide, often causing long-term disabilities such as sensorineural hearing loss and developmental delays. Despite its significant public health impact, awareness of cCMV among healthcare providers in developing countries, like Iran, remains notably low.
Methods:
This study builds on prior research highlighting a significant knowledge gap about cCMV among family physicians in Iran. A re-analysis of existing data was conducted to better understand these gaps and to identify where targeted educational interventions might be most effective. The study reassessed data using 11 out of 15 questionnaire questions to evaluate awareness of CMV, categorizing participants into three levels: weak, intermediate, and adequate awareness based on their knowledge of CMV and cCMV.
Results:
Results showed that while 41.9% of participants had adequate general knowledge of CMV, only 32.8% demonstrated adequate knowledge of cCMV, with 39.4% showing weak awareness. Notably, 42.1% of general practitioners displayed a weak understanding of cCMV, underscoring the need for improved education. In contrast, specialists had a higher awareness of general CMV but showed reduced knowledge about cCMV.
Conclusions:
The study recommends the integration of comprehensive educational programs into medical curricula and continuous professional development for both general practitioners and specialists. Addressing these knowledge gaps is critical to reducing the spread of cCMV and its associated social and economic burdens, ultimately improving public health outcomes.
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