Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge Regarding Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (Htlv-1) Among Healthcare Workers at Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran, in 2023–2024, a Cross-Sectional Descriptive-Analytical Study Publisher



Letafati A ; Goudarzi Y ; Sheikhi M ; Afzali M ; Norouzi M ; Rouzbahani KA ; Ghasemi M ; Sadeghi A ; Mozhgani SH
Source: Health Science Reports Published:2026

Abstract

Background and Aim: Human T-Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1), is responsible for serious diseases such as Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) and HTLV-1 associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP). This research aimed to explore the level of awareness and knowledge of HTLV-1 among healthcare professionals working at Imam Khomeini hospital complex in Tehran to compare their knowledge in different aspects of this virus including basic knowledge, transmission, pathogenesis, prevention and treatment. Methods: This cross-sectional, descriptive-analytical study was conducted among healthcare personnel at Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran, during 2023–2024. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire designed to assess knowledge and attitudes about HTLV-1. The questionnaire underwent expert review for validity and reliability testing, including a 2-week test-retest process with Cohen's kappa coefficient calculation. It included demographic data, binary knowledge questions about HTLV-1 transmission, symptoms, complications, prevention, and treatment. Results: A total of 220 healthcare workers and students (63.6% female, 36.4% male) from medical, paramedical, and service fields participated in the study. Participants' attitude and knowledge levels were assessed using correct response rates, revealing significantly higher attitude scores (64.81%) compared to knowledge scores (42.61%) based on the Wilcoxon test (p < 0.05). Gender-based comparisons showed no statistically significant differences in attitudes (p = 0.30) or knowledge (p = 0.95). Age-group analyses using Kruskal–Wallis tests identified significant differences in knowledge performance (p = 0.00015), with the 26–35 age group outperforming others. Job position comparisons showed no significant differences in attitude or knowledge scores (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights a notable gap in knowledge about HTLV-1 among healthcare professionals at Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, despite relatively positive attitudes. Significant differences in knowledge were observed across age groups, with the 26–35 age group demonstrating better awareness. These findings underscore the need for targeted educational programs to improve HTLV-1 knowledge, particularly among younger and less experienced staff, to enhance preventive and diagnostic capabilities. © 2026 The Author(s). Health Science Reports published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.