Socioeconomic Disparities in Knowledge and Behaviors of Zika virus in Pregnant Women [6J]

INTRODUCTION: Gaps in knowledge and prevention of Zika have been established in pregnant women, though it is unclear whether these gaps are further pronounced in disadvantaged populations. In this study, we aim to identify disparities in knowledge and behaviors of Zika during pregnancy. METHODS: A cross-sectional design was utilized. Surveys were distributed to pregnant women in the antenatal clinics of University of Miami Hospital and Jackson Health Systems. Women were divided into two groups based on socioeconomic status(SES):low(income less than $25,000 or education less than high school) and middle/high(income greater than $25,001 or education greater than high school). Data was then recorded onto REDcap and analyzed using SAS studio. Categorical variables were compared using Pearson’s chi-square or Fisher’s exact test. RESULTS: The study was carried out between January 17th,2017-May 3rd,2017, and a total of 224 women were surveyed. Low SES group consisted of 107 women, and middle/high SES group consisted of 117 women. Both groups were similar in trimester and parity and differed in age, race, ethnicity, employment status, and number of children. Women in middle/high SES group answered more questions correctly about Zika symptomology and prevention compared to the lower SES group. Women in lower SES group were more likely to answer that they feel doctors should talk to their patients about risks and protection from Zika at every visit compared to women in middle/higher SES group. CONCLUSION: There are disparities in knowledge and behaviors regarding Zika in women of lower SES compared to women of middle/higher SES. Interventions to further educate disadvantaged women on Zika.