Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding clean cooking among people in rural households in Bangladesh: a cross-sectional study

This study inquires the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding clean cooking among rural households in Bangladesh. Clean cooking aims to reduce household pollution by using modern fuels such as liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and electricity. One-third of the world's population still doesn’t have access to clean cooking fuels or facilities and relies on solid biomass fuels. These traditional fuels use produces hazardous emissions that poses danger to human, animal and plant health. A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and May 2023, involving 1240 participants from different divisions of Bangladesh. Using a convenient sampling technique, the survey collected socio-demographic information, health conditions, and KAP scores through semi-structured questionnaires. Bivariate and multivariable linear regression analyses were employed to determine factors associated with KAP scores. The mean knowledge score was 4.30 out of 12 (35.83% correct), positively associated with education, duration of residence, fuel usage, allergies, and diabetes. The mean attitude score was 12.50 out of 18 (69.44% positive), positively linked to education, occupation, duration of residence, fuel usage, and specific health conditions. Clean cooking practices had a mean score of 4.97 out of 14 (35.5% compliance), positively correlated with income, occupation, duration of residence, fuel usage, and health conditions. This study sheds light on the existing KAP gaps regarding clean cooking among rural households in Bangladesh. Strengthening education and awareness, reducing regional disparities, and introducing targeted subsidies for low-income households could collectively enhance adoption and help bridge the clean cooking gap in rural areas.