Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Schoolchildren About Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Dehloran City, Ilam Province, Southwest of Iran.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is an endemic disease prevalent in many parts of Iran, including Ilam Province. Conducted in Dehloran City from April 12 to 24, 2025, this study aimed to assess the determinants of the disease, particularly among schoolchildren, as the most vulnerable societal stratum. This descriptive-analytical study included 1,302 schoolchildren selected using a random cluster sampling method. Data was collected based on self-reporting using a validated (by an expert panel) and reliable (with a Cronbach's alpha of 78%) questionnaire. The data was analysed using SPSS version 22 software. Approximately 85% of participants had weak to average knowledge scores, with a mean of 1.88 ± 5.46. The average attitudes score of participants was 5.77 ± 20.97, with only 9.52% exhibiting positive preventive attitudes. More than 95% of participants had poor preventive behaviours. Most participants had weak or average knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours towards CL. There is an obvious shortcoming in health education in the elementary education system. Elementary schools should adopt CL educational intervention to control disease. This may be achieved by applying the theory and models of behaviour change.