Using latent class analysis to characterize a high-misconception profile for targeted health education among HBsAg-positive pregnant women in China.

BACKGROUND

Despite effective interventions, mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a concern. While health education is crucial, knowledge gaps and misconceptions persist among HBsAg-positive pregnant women. Traditional variable-centered approaches often treat this population as homogeneous, potentially overlooking distinct cognitive subgroups that require tailored interventions. This study aimed to apply person-centered latent class analysis (LCA) to identify and characterize such latent cognitive profiles regarding HBV transmission knowledge.

METHODS

We conducted a secondary LCA on cross-sectional survey data from 203 HBsAg-positive pregnant women in Taiyuan (2020-2022). Model fit was assessed using BIC and entropy. Derived classes were characterized and compared using Knowledge and Misconception scores (Wilcoxon test) and characterized demographically and clinically.

RESULTS

LCA identified two profiles: a "Low-Misconception & High-Knowledge" profile (90.2%) and "High-Misconception & High-Knowledge" profile (9.8%) -a group demonstrating accurate knowledge of true transmission routes alongside persistent endorsement of casual transmission myths. The latter group endorsed numerous casual transmission myths (e.g., via food) despite knowing true routes, with a significantly higher Misconception Score. This group was younger, less reliant on internet information, and higher education was a protective factor against belonging to it.

CONCLUSION

Using LCA, we identified a significant minority profile characterized by the co-occurrence of accurate knowledge and a high burden of casual transmission myths. This demonstrates the critical need for a precision public health approach to move beyond one-size-fits-all education. Screening for this cognitively conflicted subgroup and delivering myth-debunking counseling through trusted channels can optimize MTCT prevention efforts. Our findings provide an empirical basis for developing brief clinical screening tools and implementing tailored patient education during routine antenatal visits.