Knowledge and Perception of Abortion among Klang Valley Population.

Abstract

Background: Abortion remains a significant public health issue, posing substantial risks to the health and lives of women. Public awareness and understanding of abortion laws in Malaysia are often limited. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and perception toward abortion among the population in the Klang Valley. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a non-probability voluntary sampling technique, involving 391 respondents from Klang Valley. The structured questionnaire included three sections: demographic information, knowledge of abortion, and perception toward abortion. Results: Most of the respondents were aged 20–29 years (5.99%), female (63.17%) and belonged to the B40 income group (monthly household income <RM4,850) (70.09%). Analysis indicated that majority possessed poor knowledge of abortion (64.96%), and 58.06% held poor perceptions. Perception was significantly associated with age, ethnicity, religion, and marital status (p < 0.05), whereas knowledge showed no such sociodemographic correlations. A significant positive association was observed between knowledge level and perception (OR = 3.13, 95% CI: 2.03–4.81, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The study concludes that deficient knowledge and generally negative perceptions of abortion prevail in the Klang Valley. The demonstrated association between knowledge and perception necessitates evidence-based educational interventions to improve public understanding and foster supportive attitudes toward reproductive health.