ABSTRACT
Objective To evaluate the effect and benefit of health education on schistosomiasis control in primary and secondary schools in Jingzhou from 2004 to 2018. Methods A retrospective survey and an on-site questionnaire investigation were used to collect data on schistosomiasis health education in primary and secondary schools in Jingzhou from 2004 to 2018, and to evaluate the modes and effects of health education. The unit benefit analysis was used to evaluate the benefit of health education investment. Results The awareness rate of schistosomiasis control knowledge and the correct behavior formation rate in 2018 reached 98.68% and 98.31%, respectively, which were statistically significantly different compared with 87.65%% and 88.08%, respectively, in 2004 (F=8.57, 6.59, P2=-0.85, -0.84, P<0.01). In terms of total funding, students were 3.05 yuan/person/time lower than residents. Conclusion From 2004 to 2018, primary and secondary schools in Jingzhou implemented schistosomiasis health education and health promotion. On the basis of reduction in the total funding, students’ knowledge of schistosomiasis prevention and correct behavior formation were effectively increased, and the rate of schistosomiasis infection was reduced to zero. Therefore, changing the dangerous behavior of the target population through schistosomiasis health education is an important measure to control and stop the prevalence of schistosomiasis.