Knowledge of anisakiasis in fish consumers in the Maule Region, Chile

Abstract

Background: Due to new seafood consumption habits, anisakiasis has been reported in more countries worldwide. However, little is known if fish consumers really know about this zoonosis. Aim: The main goal of this study was to know the degree of knowledge about anisakiasis by fish consumers, as well as to know if some sociodemographic characteristics are related to this level of knowledge in the Maule Region, Chile. Methods: A survey conducted in the Maule region was applied to 578 people. The results indicated that the level of knowledge of fish consumers about anisakiasis had a score of 46,05 on a scale of 1 to 100, which was classified as low. Furthermore, there was no difference in knowledge between men or women (p-value=0.420), as well as when people live on the coast or in the interior areas of the Maule region (p-value=0.807). However, there is a higher knowledge among young people and those with a higher educational level (p-values of 0.005 and <0.001, respectively). Conclusion: In view of these results, and in accordance with the "One Health" approach, we believe that it is necessary to educate the population about the dangers of consuming raw fish and shellfish.