Health Practices and Hygiene Behaviors of Manobo Students

This study investigates personal hygiene and health practices among Manobo students, examining the relationship between sociodemographic factors and hygiene behaviors, including personality grooming, underarm hygiene, personal hygiene, and teeth hygiene. Conducted at San Nicolas National High School in Don Carlos, Bukidnon, during the 2023-2024 academic year, the research employed a descriptive-correlation approach. With 105 enrolled Manobo students aged 12 to 18 randomly sampled, a researcher-designed questionnaire assessed their health practices. The significant difference in the level of Manobo students' extent of health practices and hygiene behaviors, when the respondents were grouped according to demographic profile, was tested and analyzed using the Mean. To examine the significant relationship between the socio-demographic profile of the Manobo students and the extent of health practices/hygiene behaviors, Pearson's r Product-Moment Correlation Coefficient was employed. The correlations among age, gender, grade level, and hygiene behaviors are examined. Starting with age, the analysis reveals a significant positive correlation with hygiene behaviors, indicating that older Manobo students tend to exhibit better hygiene practices. The findings revealed moderate adherence to hygiene practices among the surveyed individuals. While daily bathing and hair combing were common, ironing clothes daily and prioritizing grooming were less frequent. Underarm hygiene emphasized bathing and using soap, while practices like using wet wipes were less common. Teeth hygiene focused on tooth brushing but lacked frequent dental visits. Age, gender, and grade level significantly influenced hygiene behaviors, with older students showing better hygiene, grade level predicting improved practices, and gender exhibiting minor differences. Considering these factors, tailored educational programs are crucial for promoting better hygiene and overall health among Manobo students. The study concludes a significant relationship between sociodemographic profiles and the level of health practices and hygiene behaviors among Manobo students. The recommendations show that administrators and teachers should promote a comprehensive approach to health practices and hygiene behaviors among Manobo students, emphasizing the importance of both personal grooming practices and general hygiene routines.