ABSTRACT
Background and Aims
The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted health behaviors globally and this study investigated changes in Health, Attitudes, Practices, and Sources of information (HAPS) among 1186 students, faculty, and staff at Qatar University following the lifting of pandemic restrictions. We aimed to identify demographic influences on HAPS and assess behavioral shifts from peak pandemic practices.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey adapted from the KAPS model, comprising 20 true/false questions, was administered to 1186 participants. The survey assessed demographics, health habits, public practices, attitudes towards COVID-19, and information sources. Data was analyzed using IBM SPSS 28 and Excel.
Results
Results revealed significant shifts: mask-wearing decreased by 78% (from 90.5% to 10.7%, p < 0.001), and hand sanitizer use decreased by 35.6% (from 72% to 36.4%, p < 0.001). Handwashing, however, decreased only by 13.6% (from 69.9% to 56.3%, p < 0.001). Notably, older adults (50+ ; n = 69) reported the highest median HAPS scores. Based on publicly available university data, approximately 60% of this group are likely faculty or staff, with an estimated 75% being non-Qatari, often from South Asian or other Arab countries. Non-Qataris (n = 496) generally exhibited higher health habit (p = 0.015) and attitude scores (p < 0.001) compared to Qataris (n = 690). Social media was the primary source of COVID-19 information (66.4%).
Conclusions
This study reveals significant shifts in health behaviors and information sources among Qatar University’s population post-pandemic. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions, particularly among younger and Qatari populations, to promote sustained healthy habits. Such interventions should leverage social media and address demographic disparities to improve pandemic preparedness. Understanding these changes is crucial for developing tailored public health strategies and improving pandemic preparedness.