Abstract

Objective: Knowing the relationship between the level of knowledge and personal hygiene behavior in scavengers in Bekasi. Method: The study design used cross-sectional with a sample of 107 scavengers working and living around the Bantar Gebang Integrated Waste Management Site. The sample was taken using the method of non-probability sampling with the technique of purposive sampling. The instrument used was in the form of a level of knowledge on personal hygiene and personal hygiene behavior. Results: Test of independent sample t-test showed that there was a significant relationship between the level of knowledge and personal hygiene behavior (p=0.001). Conclusion: The level of knowledge of personal hygiene can affect the formation of good or poor personal hygiene behavior on scavengers. This study recommends that nurses in the community can improve promotive and preventive efforts related to how to maintain personal hygiene so that scavengers can improve their quality of life.

Keywords Personal hygiene; health; scavenger; behavior; knowledge level.