Assessing the Knowledge Level, Attitudes, Risky Behaviors and Preventive Practices on Sexually Transmitted Diseases among University Students as Future Healthcare Providers in the Central Zone of Malaysia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Investigating causes of the high prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in Du Noon

BACKGROUND

 In South Africa, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) represent a significant public health issue. Sexually transmitted infections contribute significantly to the burden of disease in South Africa and are recognised as one of the main causes of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemic. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential causes of the high prevalence of STIs in the Du Noon population.

METHODS

 A mixed methodology study involving 40 participants between the ages of 18 years and 45 years was conducted at Du Noon community health centre from 01 May 2021 to 15 May 2021. Both structured questionnaires and one-on-one patient interviews with open-ended questions were utilised to collect data.

RESULTS

 Cultural beliefs, having multiple partners, a lack of partner notification, alcohol consumption, and a lack of condom usage were found to be the main contributing factors to the high incidence of STIs. Sex education appears to be lacking. Our findings reflected the other well-known cultural and socioeconomic issues confronting South African communities, for example, poverty, age-disparate relationships, and polygamous relationships.

CONCLUSION

 The cultural perspectives and understandings of sexual interactions of older men appear to have an impact on younger generations; as do peer pressure, social media and other socio-economic factors. There is an urgent need to shift cultural ideologies and norms among the youth. More research is needed to understand the views and misconceptions of the general public about STIs.Contribution: This study highlighted how health education challenges, interpersonal relationships, and socioeconomic barriers are still important factors in STI transmission.

The relationship between health-related knowledge and attitudes and health risk behaviours among Portuguese university students

Scientific evidence reveals a high prevalence of health risk behaviour among university students. This calls for the creation of educational programmes that promote more knowledge about health. However, knowledge alone is not enough to change behaviours; other factors should be considered, including attitudes towards health. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to analyse the relationship between knowledge, attitudes and health risk behaviours among university students. For this, a previously validated self-report questionnaire was applied to a stratified sample of 840 students, by year of study (first- and third-year students) and their scientific area. In addition to sociodemographic issues, the questionnaire contains a health-related knowledge scale, an attitudes towards health scale, and questions about health risk behaviours. Students displayed poor knowledge about health, correctly answering 17.77 (SD = 4.59) questions out of a total of 36, and moderate scores concerning attitudes towards health (M = 2.61, SD = 0.48, range: 1-5). Students reported always engaging in, on average, 3.88 (SD = 1.45) of the seven behaviours subject to the analysis. Mediation analyses indicated that knowledge about health and attitudes towards health were statistically significant predictors of risky behaviours. Furthermore, it was indicated that attitudes towards health have a mediating effect between health knowledge and health risk behaviours. Findings from this study indicate that public health and education policies should promote healthy behaviours among university students, taking into account not only the level of knowledge but essentially the development of positive attitudes when facing behaviours which put health at risk.

A mixed-methods study of the awareness and functionality of sexual and reproductive health services among persons with disability in Ghana

BACKGROUND

Persons with disabilities (PwDs) face barriers in accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services due to lack of knowledge and awareness, stigma and discrimination, and inadequate service provision. This study aimed to examine the determinants of SRH knowledge and awareness among PwDs in Ghana, and to explore their perceptions of the functionality of SRH services.

METHODS

A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study design was used to collect and analyse quantitative (n = 402) and qualitative (n = 37) data from PwDs in two districts in Ghana. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data was analysed thematically.

RESULTS

Most of the participants had high awareness of SRH (94.3%), sexually transmitted infections (STIs) (92.5%) and HIV/AIDS (97.0%). Employment status was positively associated with SRH awareness [aOR = 1.62; 95% CI = 1.02, 2.59]. Disability type was a significant predictor of STI [aOR = 2.02; 95% CI = 1.39, 2.94] and HIV/AIDS [aOR = 2.32; 95% CI = 1.21, 4.44] awareness, with the visually impaired having higher odds than the physically disabled. Age group was also a significant predictor of STI awareness, with older respondents having higher odds than younger ones [aOR = 1.76; CI = 1.01,3.05 for 30-39 years; aOR = 2.48; CI = 1.22, 5.05 for 40-49 years]. The qualitative findings revealed four main themes: conceptualisation of SRH, active engagement in SRH information seeking, tensions between knowledge and religious beliefs and perceived utility of SRH services.

CONCLUSION

Despite the high levels of SRH knowledge and awareness among PwDs, there are significant gaps and challenges related to disability type, age group, misconceptions, beliefs, and service non-functionality that limit the utility of SRH services. The findings call for tailored education to reduce misconceptions and put in pragmatic steps to deliver quality SRH services and information to PwDs. Further research is needed to assess the sexual lives of PwDs and explore the perspectives of all relevant stakeholders, including service providers and policymakers on how to enhance SRH outcomes for PwDs in Ghana.

Adolescents' Perceptions of Sexuality: A Qualitative Study

Adolescents have a greater risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which is a serious public health problem. Education is an effective strategy to improve adolescent sexual health outcomes. However, Spanish adolescents have a lack of sex education. The aim of this study was to explore the perceptions and opinions of a sample of adolescents regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Photovoice is a research method that uses the search for images of everyday events with the intention of bringing about social change. An exploratory, descriptive design was used with a qualitative approach based on the Photovoice methodology. The sample consisted of 26 high school and baccalaureate students of Almería (Spain) selected through a convenience sample. The age of the participants ranged from 14 to 17 years, with a mean age of 15.31 years. Two main categories were extracted from the data analysis: 'Towards a culture of preventing STIs and promoting healthy sexual practices' and 'Adolescents' needs from their perspective'. In conclusion, numerous changes take place at the biopsychosocial level during adolescence that imply a need to explore their sexuality in depth. A lack of knowledge and a carefree attitude during sexual initiation can increase the risk of developing STIs. The study's adolescents stated that they do not have adequate sex education to acquire sufficient knowledge about sexuality and sexual health, and therefore, request that the traditional format be modified in order to achieve better results.

Validation of a Questionnaire on Sexual and Reproductive Health Among Immigrant Vocational Education Students in Portugal from São Tomé and Príncipe

Sexual and reproductive health interventions' effectiveness should be evaluated using a valid instrument. This study aimed to validate a questionnaire on sexual and reproductive health in adolescents and young adults from São Tomé and Príncipe who voluntarily enrolled in a vocational school in Portugal to complete their 12th school year and obtain a professional card.A questionnaire consisting of perception and knowledge sections was adapted from previous questionnaires. We followed the steps of psychometric analysis. Firstly, we assessed face validity and content validity. We used factorial analysis to validate the perceptions section (which included Likert-type questions). For the knowledge section (which consisted of multiple-choice questions), we used the key check, discrimination index, and difficulty index. We evaluated internal consistency through Cronbach's alpha for the perceptions section and the Kuder-Richardson score for the knowledge section.Out of 105 invited students, a total of ninety students were enrolled in this study, of whom 88 completed most of the questions. The exploratory analysis showed that most students agreed with the right to refuse intercourse. However, while approximately 23% disagreed that consensual sex among adult women or men is always wrong, around the same proportion agreed. A considerable number of students recognized condoms and pills as effective methods of contraception. However, most students were unfamiliar with other methods. Most knowledge questions showed acceptable difficulty levels, and the discrimination index varied among questions. The knowledge questions demonstrated good consistency levels. This study enabled us to develop an appropriate instrument for evaluating the effectiveness of public health interventions and identifying specific knowledge gaps in migrant populations from low-income countries. This will help prioritise topics to be addressed in sexual health education sessions.

Assessment of Knowledge and Attitude Toward Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Among Women in Saudi Arabia

Purpose Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious infection of the female reproductive system that can lead to long-term complications such as infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and ectopic pregnancy. PID is also associated with an increased risk of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Early diagnosis and treatment of PID is crucial to prevent complications. Despite the severe consequences of PID, many women are unaware of the risks associated with this condition. This lack of awareness can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, increasing the risk of complications. This study explores women's knowledge and attitudes regarding PID. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted using a bilingual, community-based questionnaire, circulated using different social media platforms. A total of 239 participants were selected through convenient non-probability sampling from the public in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS Statistics version 26 (IBM Corp. Released 2019. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 26.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.). The chi-square test was applied to determine the differences between knowledge and attitude levels with participants' socio-demographic characteristics. A p-value <0.005 was considered statistically significant. Results Appropriate PID knowledge level was found only in 32% of the respondents and was significantly associated with the respondents' family history of the PID (p=0.025). A positive attitude toward PID/STI was also observed only in 36% of the study participants, which was significantly associated with the respondents' age (p˂0.001), marital status (p˂0.001), occupation (p˂ 0.001), past medical/surgical history (p=0.006), and family history of the PID (p˂0.009). Conclusion The present study reported average levels of appropriate knowledge and attitudes toward PID among female respondents, which could be further improved by increasing PID/STI awareness programs.

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of Lebanese university students related to sexually transmitted diseases: a cross-sectional study

AIM

To appraise Lebanese university students' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in March and April 2020. A total of 402 students (67.9% women) from ten universities located in different Lebanese regions were recruited through convenient sampling.

RESULTS

Pursuing a major in non-health sciences compared with a major in health sciences (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=0.08) was significantly associated with lower odds of having better knowledge of STDs. Older age (aOR=1.09) was significantly associated with higher odds of having better knowledge of STDs. Having good vs poor knowledge (aOR=3.88) was significantly associated with higher odds of having favorable attitudes toward STDs, whereas pursuing a major in non-health sciences compared with a major in health sciences (aOR=0.28) was significantly associated with lower odds of having favorable attitudes toward STDs. Women compared with men (aOR=2.21) had higher odds of having healthier practices related to STDs. Attitude did not mediate the association between knowledge and practice.

CONCLUSION

Attitude did not significantly mediate the association between knowledge and practice. Therefore, educational programs and awareness campaigns should be implemented in secondary schools and among vulnerable non-medical students. Such efforts can help students identify the symptoms of STDs, seek medical attention, and make informed decisions to protect themselves.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of sexually transmitted infection prevention practices among Ethiopian young people

Objective

Approximately 178.5 million new cases of treatable sexually transmitted infections are thought to be diagnosed each year among young people worldwide who are between the ages of 15 and 24 years. The results regarding sexually transmitted infection prevention studies in Ethiopia are not consistent. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the pooled prevalence of sexually transmitted infection prevention methods among young people in Ethiopia.

Methods

The systematic review was developed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Between 5 January and 18 May 2022, published studies were searched using online databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, African Online Journal, and Google Scholar. The quality of the study was evaluated using the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument. A random-effects model was used for the statistical analysis using STATA version 14 software.

Results

A total of 3331 studies were searched, and five studies with a total of 1925 participants were included in the final meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of preventive practice toward sexually transmitted infections was 54% (95% confidence interval: 44, 64). According to a subgroup analysis based on regional state, the prevalence was highest in the southern region, at 66% (95% CI: 59, 73), and lowest in the Amhara region, at 42% (95% confidence interval: 38, 45). Institution-based studies had high heterogeneity, according to a subgroup analysis based on study setting (I ² = 95.39%, p value 0.001).

Conclusion

Almost one in every two young people is engaged in preventive practices. This is lower than the World Health Organization global health sector strategy target (70%) for sexually transmitted infections. A subgroup analysis based on regional state and study setting showed a variation in the prevalence of preventive practices and significant heterogeneity among the regions.

Level and determinants of knowledge, attitude, and practice of risky sexual behavior among adolescents in Harar, Ethiopia

Background

Adolescence is a transition period of advancement from a state of immature sexual characteristics to sexual and reproductive maturity; an improvement in the mental form progressing to the mental maturity of a grown-up adult; and a period of transition from total socioeconomic dependence to relative independence. An adolescent is defined as a person aged between 10 and 19 years. This study assessed the level and determinant factors of knowledge, attitude, and practice of risky sexual behavior among secondary school adolescents in Harar, Eastern Ethiopia, 2022.

Methods

A school-based cross-sectional study design was employed. From the total population of adolescents, 387 respondents were sampled. A simple random sampling method was used to select study participants. The data was collected by using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26.

Result

Among the participants, 47.3% had good knowledge of risky sexual behavior. 41.9% had a positive attitude toward risky sexual behavior. 36.1% of students had started sexual activity before they reached 18 years old. Out of 9.3% of respondents who have had sexual intercourse, almost 50% of them had multiple partners. Students who live in urban areas were three times (adjusted odds ratio: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.6, 6.6) more likely to have good knowledge about risky sex than their counterparts in rural settings.

Conclusion

There is a significant number of risky sexual behaviors, such as having a different sexual partner and having unprotected sex with a non-regular partner. Being female, in urban residence, not having pocket money, and attending parties have significant associations with having good knowledge about risky sex. Harari Regional Educational and Health Bureau should provide repeated tailored information that can specifically address the attitude of the adolescents toward risky sexual behavior using different media, teachers, and school clubs in respect of sexual and reproductive health. The existing adolescent reproductive health program should be strengthened and evaluated to improve the sexual behavior of adolescents.

Knowledge difference of sexually transmitted infections between Hong Kong undergraduates from local and international secondary schools: A cross-sectional study

Background

Since the delivery of sex education is not standardized across local and international secondary schools in Hong Kong, this study aims to assess and compare the knowledge level of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) between university students who attended local and international secondary schools in Hong Kong.

Methods

From January to March 2019, we conducted a cross-sectional survey among undergraduates at the University of Hong Kong. The primary outcome was STI knowledge as measured by a 29-item quiz. A higher quiz score meant a better STI knowledge level. Students' attitude toward sexual health and their sex education history was collected. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to evaluate the association factor with a better STI knowledge level.

Results

Three hundred and ninety six students were included in the analysis. Three hundred thirty three (85.35%) students attended local secondary schools and 58 (14.65%) students attended international secondary schools in Hong Kong; 200 (50.51%) students were male and 196 (49.49%) students were female. Compared with students from local secondary school, those from international secondary schools had a significantly higher STI quiz score (18.19 vs. 15.4, p = 0.003). The results of multiple linear regression revealed that students in a higher year of study (β = 1.07, p < 0.001), from medical faculties (β = 6.96, p < 0.001), and from international secondary schools (β = 2.27, p = 0.003) achieved a higher STI quiz score.

Conclusion

University students who attended international secondary schools in Hong Kong possess a significantly higher knowledge level of STIs compared with those who attended local secondary schools. Nonetheless, the overall STI awareness among university students is inadequate. The inadequacy of STI awareness calls for the need to plan and implement satisfactory, comprehensive, and standardized sex education across the overall education system in Hong Kong.

Knowledge and attitude on sexually transmitted infections and contraceptive use among university students in Bhutan

Objectives

The unmet needs of contraception can lead to unintended pregnancy and transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the contraception use, knowledge, and attitude on STI among students under Royan University of Bhutan (RUB).

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study using an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed in Google forms and the link was shared through the college WeChat groups. The questionnaire consisted of four parts on socio-demographic, sexual behaviour and contraceptive use, knowledge, and attitude on STIs. All the students under RUB were invited to participate voluntarily in this study. The socio-demography was presented in frequency and proportion.

Result

A total of 1,283 students participated in this survey and 55.0% (701) were females. Of this, 29.4% (377) were sexually active and 94.4% reported using modern contraception. Commonly used contraceptives were: condoms (83.8%, 316) and emergency contraceptives (20.6%, 78), respectively. The mean knowledge and attitude scores on STI were 9.94 (range 2–20) and 12 (range 2–14), respectively. Good knowledge and attitude on STI were reported in 53.2% (683) and 70.1% (899) of participants.

Conclusion

Students reported average knowledge and a good attitude towards STI. Contraceptive use among university students was low. There is a need to strengthen health education on STIs in schools and universities. All forms of contraceptives especially condoms should be made easily available to sexually active people.

Knowledge and practices of female students at university of Kara regarding sexually transmitted infections in Togo, 2021

A good knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STI) in female students is an important element in the prevention of STI transmission. The objective of this study is to describe the level of knowledge and practices on STI among female students at the University of Kara. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the University of Kara from July to September 2021. Data were collected using a standard, digitalised, selfadministered questionnaire. Logistic regression analysis was used to describe factors associated with the level of knowledge of STIs. A total of 1,055 female students with a median age of 21 years (interquartile range: 20-24) participated in the study. More than one-third (33.7%) of the students had good knowledge of STI. Having already been tested for HIV (aOR=3.25; 95% CI 2.36-4.52), having already had sex (aOR=1.56; 95% CI 1.10-2.24) and the level of education (AOR=3.46; 95% CI 2.10-5.85) were significantly associated with good STIs knowledge. Among the 723 female students (68.5%) who already had sex, 32.5% reported inconsistent use of condoms during sexual intercourse and 18.9% reported having multiple sexual partners. The results of this study highlight the importance of intensifying STIs prevention efforts (awareness, screening, and vaccination) among female students at the University of Kara.

Knowledge attitudes and readiness of nursing students in assessing peoples' sexual health problems

BACKGROUND

Sexual health is an important part of human physical health. Sexual wellbeing is a condition of physical, emotional, mental, and social ease concerning sexuality. Therefore, all health care professionals should respect, protect, and fulfil the sexual-health needs of a person.

PURPOSE

This research aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and readiness of nursing students in assessing people's sexuality.

METHODOLOGY

Cross-sectional descriptive research design was used to conduct this research. A stratified random sampling technique was used to recruit 195 nursing students from BSN (semester VI & VIII), Post RN (semester II & IV). Three self-administered tools Sexually Transmitted Diseases Knowledge Questionnaire (STD-KQ), Self-Addressing Sexual-Health (SA-SH), and Self-Addressing Sexual-Health History Taking was used to collect data from the participants. Data analysis was conducted on SPSS V-23.

RESULT

Majority (111, 56.9%) of participants belong to the public sector as compared to the private. The majority of the students were female (n = 117, 60%). Most (153, 78.5%) of the participants were interested in people's sexual-health history taking; they had positive attitudes toward people's sexuality. Most (139, 71.3%) of the study participants were comfortable and ready to some extent to deal with sexual health issues. Religion, culture, and people's opposite-gender were identified barriers in assessing people's sexuality.

CONCLUSION

This study identified that nursing students had insufficient knowledge regarding STDs, but they had positive attitudes toward addressing peoples' sexual-health concerns. Students are comfortable and ready to some extent to deal with sexual problems.

Differences Regarding Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections, Sexual Habits, and Behavior Between University Students of Medical and Nonmedical Professions in Serbia

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sexual habits, and behavior among students of medical and nonmedical students in Serbia.

Methodology: The cross-sectional study of 1,273 university students of four undergraduate institutions in Serbia, two of medical and two of nonmedical orientation. A standardized questionnaire, prepared in line with the questionnaire of the European health research—the second wave (European Health Interview Survey—EHIS wave 2), according to defined internationally accepted indicators, was used as a survey instrument.

Results: Statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) between medical and nonmedical student groups was determined for the following parameters: naming four of five STIs (29.1 vs. 13.4%), knowledge about vaccines against some STIs (26.0 vs. 17.0%), relationship between HPV infection and cervical malignancy (48.2 vs. 16.7%) engaged in the sexual relations (87.9 vs. 76.4%), never used a condom (15.2 vs. 10.4%), underwent gynecological or urological examination (66.7 vs. 44.1%), and tested to one of STIs (10.5 vs. 4.9%).

Conclusion: Both student groups have limited knowledge on possible consequences that risky sexual behavior has for reproductive health. Promotion of knowledge about STIs, awareness of all complications, and consequences of these infections certainly affect the reduction of risky behavior.

Factors associated with unsafe sexual behavior among sexually active Chinese University students, Hebei Province, 2019

Background

Healthy sexual behavior is critical for controlling the HIV/AIDS epidemic among university students, particularly in regions with increasing infection rates among university students in China.

Methods

This study investigated the prevalence of unhealthy sexual behavior in the past 6 months and the associated demographic and psychosocial factors among sexually active Chinese university students. Self-identified sexually active Chinese university students were recruited for the study.

Results

The study found that most students used condoms inconsistently during sexual intercourse (54.8%), and logistic regression showed that condomless sex was associated with being raised by a single parent (AOR = 1.934, 95% CI 1.234–3.031) or by grandparents or others (AOR = 1.583, 95% CI 1.003–2.50) and with sometimes using dating apps (AOR = 1.496, 95% CI 1.106–2.024). The independent protective factors for condomless sex were HIV knowledge scores between 15 and 18 compared to scores of 0 to 4 (AOR = 0.434, 95% CI 0.244–0.771). Among sexually active university students, 15.5% reported that they had multiple sexual partners; having multiple sexual partners was associated with sometimes (AOR = 2.543, 95% CI 1.553–4.167) or always (AOR =4.048, 95% CI 2.177–7.527) using dating apps. Being female (AOR = 0.402, 95% CI 0.231–0.699) and in a relationship (AOR = 0.236, 95% CI 0.154–0.363) were protective factors against having multiple sexual partners.

Conclusions

There is an urgent need to promote HIV prevention and to implement psychosocial interventions by providing comprehensive sex education and access to condoms and health care on campuses to decrease the potential factors related to unhealthy sexual behaviors among university students.

Awareness, Knowledge and Risky Behaviors of Sexually Transmitted Diseases among Young People in Greece

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) affect mainly young individuals and cause health, social, and economic problems worldwide. The present study used a web questionnaire to assess the awareness, knowledge, sexual behaviors, and common practices regarding STDs in young Greek adults. The 1833 individuals, aged 18–30 years, who responded to the study seem to be particularly knowledgeable regarding STDs such as AIDS (97.7%), warts (97%), Chlamydia (92.2%), genital herpes (89.9%), syphilis (81.9%), and gonorrhea (72.1%), whereas lower percentages were noted for trichomoniasis (39.3%), Molluscum contagiosum (12.9%), mycoplasmosis (11.6%), and amoebiasis (7.4%). Regarding oral STD transmission, participants replied correctly for genital herpes (45%), warts (35.8%), and AIDS (HIV; 33.8%), whereas 30.2% were unfamiliar with oral sexual transmission. Of the participants, 52% were not aware that STDs might cause infertility. Only 40.4% of the respondents reported always using condoms during sexual intercourse, and 48.6% had never been tested for STDs. The majority of the young population (55%) presented a moderate knowledge STD score (41–60%) and was associated with demographic parameters such as age, gender, sexual preference, number of sexual partners, and residence (p < 0.05). These findings provide important information regarding the prevention of STDs and highlight the significance of developing more effective sex education programs for young people in Greece.

Knowledge of Students regarding HIV/AIDS at a Rural University in South Africa

Introduction:

Knowledge about HIV/AIDS is essential for facilitating safer sexual behaviour hence, it is important in controlling HIV. Therefore, in the absence of a cure for the pandemic, adequate knowledge about the virus remains the backbone of prevention efforts.

Objective:

To assess the knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS among undergraduate students at a rural university in Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive quantitative survey-based study was conducted at a rural-based university in South Africa. Stratified random sampling was used to select 345 students. A self-administered questionnaire composed of 26 questions was utilised to gather data and the data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Multiple logistic regression and chi-square tests [χ2] were employed to determine the association between HIV/AIDS knowledge and demographic variables.

Results:

The overall HIV/AIDS knowledge score of students shows that (74)21% had a poor level of knowledge, (126)37% had average knowledge, and (145)42% had adequate knowledge. There was no significant difference between male and female students regarding their knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Factors, such as age, level of study, the field of study, and religion, were not significantly associated with HIV/AIDS knowledge. However, the race was significantly associated with knowledge with coloureds and mixed races, almost six times less knowledgeable than blacks.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, students had inadequate knowledge about HIV/AIDS. Misconceptions about HIV/AIDS facts, transmission routes, and prevention aspects were also prevalent among students. The present study accentuates the need for providing students with more HIV/AIDS education to fill HIV knowledge gaps and misconceptions.

Online STI information seeking behaviour and condom use intentions among young Facebook users in Malaysia

The Internet has opened pathways for youth to find sexual health information which was not easily available to them in the past. Studies have shown that seeking sexual health information online may potentially influence an individuals' decision-making to change their sexual health behaviours. However, there is a gap in research on the associations of seeking online sexually transmitted infection (STI) information with STI prevention among young people, particularly in Malaysia. This study investigated the associations of seeking STI information online with the intentions of condom use among young adult online users in Malaysia. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among Malaysian youth aged 18-25 years old who were recruited through Facebook. In total, 1530 respondents completed the survey, identifying 874 respondents who had sought STI information online. The majority of respondents had intentions to use condoms as protection against STI. Respondents who sought online STI information were significantly more likely to have the intention to use condoms compared to respondents who did not seek online STI information (OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.01-1.76, p = 0.040). Online STI information has the potential to increase access to STI information among young online users in Malaysia amid the stigma surrounding sex-related issues. Providing accurate STI information online from reliable sources may equip young people who have Internet access with awareness of sexual health protective behaviours such as condom use. It is recommended to facilitate Internet access to reach sectors of the population that currently do not have access, as the Internet is useful in STI prevention.

Assessing the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Sexually Transmitted Infections Among College Students in a Rural Midwest Setting

The objective of this research was to assess that knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sexual heath among rural college students in Nebraska. We administered an electronic survey (n = 125) that was adapted from the YRBSS and National College Health Assessment to compare results to national estimates. Results show condom use was below the national average (38.4% vs. 54.1%) during last time of having sexual intercourse. Only half (51%) of rural college students had received the HPV vaccine, and significantly less among males (18%) compared to females (60%). 37% of participants strongly agreed/agreed they felt their parents would find out if they had an STI screening, and even more felt their social group would find out (42%). Nearly all (92%) of the participants strongly agreed/agreed that they would tell their partner if they noticed that they had symptoms of an STI; although, over half (60%) of the participants strongly agreed/agreed that they thought they could tell if there was a change in their body indicating after contracting a STI, 33% did not know that STIs can have no symptoms, and over half (52%) almost never/never get STI screening when they had new partners. There was a significant positive association between with highest level of sexual health education and composite knowledge scores. The results show that sexual health among rural college students is an important, but understudied, health disparity. Online and college-oriented interventions could be used to help bridge the gap of sexual health education in states that do not mandate sexual health education, like Nebraska.

A Comparative Analysis of Risky Sexual Behaviors, Self-Reported Sexually Transmitted Infections, Knowledge of Symptoms and Partner Notification Practices among Male and Female University Students in Pretoria, South Africa

The surge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among young people is of public health importance, and the notification and treatment of sex partners after the diagnosis of an STI is a public health approach to prevent and reduce further transmissions. There are limited studies that investigate partner notification among young people in general, and university students in South Africa in particular. We investigated self-reported STIs and partner notification practice, intentions, and preferences among university students. We also assessed their STI knowledge and risky sexual behaviour in relation to STIs. The study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey that used multistage sampling to select 918 students across the five schools of a health sciences university in South Africa. Descriptive statistics and bivariate logistic analysis were performed using Stata IC version 16. More males (54.1%) than females were currently in a sexual relationship (47.3%), more males reported multiple sexual partners (n = 114, 46%), engaged in transactional sex (n = 13, 5.3%), and had one-night stands (n = 68, 28.1%) in the past 12 months (p = 0.001). Moreover, half (55.9%) had poor knowledge of STIs with an overall mean knowledge score of 2.9 ± 2.0, and the majority (85.8%) perceived themselves to be at low risk of acquiring STIs. The odds of intentions to disclose an STI infection to a sexual partner and delivering a partner notification slip to ex-sexual partners were not statistically significant (p = 0.95; p = 0.10), with the likelihood of disclosure being 1.3 times for female students compared to males. Female students were 1.5 times as likely to prefer a doctor to send an SMS notification to their sexual partners (p = 0.02) compared to their male counterparts, while the preference of an SMS notification was 41% (p = 0.03) among female students. Students engaged in risky behaviours but had a low perception of the risks of acquiring STIs. Although they had preferences of different methods of partner notification, both male and female students preferred SMS partner notifications from a doctor, even though women were in the majority. Health care providers should put in place interventions so that young people can safely inform their partners about STIs.

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections in the sexual scripts of young people: differences according to gender

This study aims to address the vulnerability of young university students to sexually transmitted infections and to identify and analyze the sexual behavior of university students and practices to prevent sexually transmitted infections. A descriptive and qualitative research study conducted in a private university in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, with 30 university students of both genders, aged 18-29 years old. The discursive data were collected by the Focal Group technique and analyzed using the content analysis technique, with the aid of the Nvivo 9.0 software, and anchored in John Gagnon's theory of sexual scripts. The findings denote that university students recognize themselves as a population vulnerable to infections transmitted by unprotected sex. The group has insufficient knowledge about infections and does not use condoms continuously. In the discourses of the university students, it was noticed that the type of affective relationship is determinant for the use (or not) of condoms. Young people believe in the group's invulnerability and therefore assume risky sexual behaviors.

Knowledge, Information Needs and Risk Perception about HIV and Sexually Transmitted Diseases after an Education Intervention on Italian High School and University Students

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) among adolescents and young people represent a significant public health problem that generates a pressing requirement of effective evidence-based education to promote primary and secondary prevention. The objective of the study is to evaluate how knowledge, information needs, and risk perception about HIV and STDs can change after targeted education interventions for students. A total of 436 subjects aged 15-24 attending high school (134 biomedical and 96 non-biomedical fields) and university courses (104 scientific and 102 non-scientific disciplines) were enrolled to respond to a questionnaire before and after the intervention. An improvement in knowledge was found in all groups, with statistically significant knowledge score differences between the four groups in 60% of the items. More than 94% of the students consider it useful to promote information on these issues. Receiving this information generated awareness and safety in more than 85% of high-school students and 93% of University students. Students widely perceived a great risk being infected with HIV/STDs, although pregnancy was seen as a more hazardous consequence of unprotected sex. This study shows that educational interventions are effective in improving knowledge, apart from findings about key knowledge topics, information needs, and risk perception, which provide significant insights to design future targeted education programs.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of university adolescents about syphilis: a cross-sectional study in the Northeast

OBJECTIVE

To analyze knowledge, attitudes and practices of university adolescents about syphilis.

METHODS

Cross-sectional, analytical, census-type study, developed with the universe of adolescents aged 18 and 19 years (n = 598), enrolled in three institutions of higher education in a municipality of Piauí (n = 598), which total 20 courses in the areas of Health Sciences, Applied Social Sciences, Exact and Earth, Engineering and Linguistics, Letters and Art. Data collection occurred from March to May 2019, based on a questionnaire adapted from the Pesquisa de Conhecimentos, Atitudes e Práticas da População Brasileira of 2013 (PCAP - Survey of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices in the Brazilian Population), consisting of questions related to sociodemographic variables (gender, family arrangement, father's schooling, mother's schooling, skin color or race, employment, household income), knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the disease, the last three being classified by scores. The variables that presented p ≤ 0.20 in the bivariate analysis, by Pearson's chi-square test, were included in three multivariate logistic models, and the outcomes in each model were knowledge, attitude and practice, respectively; remaining at the end those at the level of p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Boys have a 39.6% lower chance of having adequate/regular knowledge (ORa = 0.604; 95%CI 0.415-0.878), whereas the highest chances are associated with "living alone, with relatives and friends" (ORa = 4.567; 95%CI 1.417-14.719) and having a very positive/positive attitude (ORa = 6.937; 95%CI 4.562-10.550). Lower chances of an adequate practice are associated with boys (ORa = 0.480; 95%CI 0.301-0.766) and lower father's schooling (ORa = 0.440; 95%CI 0.241-0.806).

CONCLUSION

Most participants' knowledge and attitude regarding syphilis were not sufficient to the adoption of an adequate sexual practice for the prevention of the disease, showing the need to investigate other variables that may be implicated in this cognitive incoherence.

Determinants of knowledge on sexually transmitted infections among students in public higher education institutions in Melaka state, Malaysia

Introduction

The increasing trend of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among the young population is a significant public health problem. This study aimed to determine the level of knowledge on STIs among students in higher education institutions and its predicting factors, in Melaka.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 600 students from higher education institutions in Melaka aged between 18 to 30 years old. Multistage sampling of the institutions was performed. Valid and reliable self-administered questionnaire in the national language, Bahasa Malaysia, was used as to collect data on sociodemographic, personal background, knowledge on STIs and sources of information for STIs. Univariate, bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS software version 25.

Results

The response rate for this study was 88%. The mean knowledge score was 24.1 ±5.1 out of 38. HIV was the most known STIs while gonorrhoea, trichomoniasis and chlamydial infections were among the least known STIs. Oral intercourse was the least known sexual activity that could transmit STIs. Higher proportion of respondents had correct knowledge on control and preventive measures of STIs (between 78% and 95%) compared to correct knowledge on sign and symptoms of STIs (between 8.5% and 67.8%). More than 90% of the respondents were unaware that a person infected with STIs could be symptom free. Four variables were identified as the determinants of the knowledge on STIs, which were level of education, place of stay, history of sexual and reproductive health education and involvement in STIs awareness programs (F (4,445) = 11.405, p <0.001, R² = 0.093).

Conclusions

The knowledge on STIs among students in higher education institutions was unsatisfactory. The existing sexual education programs can be strengthened by delivering more information on other STIs rather than focusing on HIV only. The future program should focus on students of diploma and/or skill certificate and staying off-campus.

Knowledge of sexually transmitted infections and its associated factors among polytechnic college students in Southwest Ethiopia

Introduction

sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact, and most of them are easily preventable and treatable. Global trends in STIs have increased. Sub-Saharan Africa carries a high burden of STIs, including HIV. Knowledge about STIs is very significant for preventing the adverse outcomes of young adult reproductive health. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge of sexually transmitted diseases and its associated factors among polytechnic college students in Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

a cross-sectional study was conducted among 453 randomly selected students at Mizan-Aman polytechnic college in Southwest Ethiopia from April 1^st to 30^th, 2018. The data were collected through self-administered structured and pre-tested questionnaire. The collected data were entered using EPI-DATA version 4.2.0.0, and analyzed using SPSS version 20 statistical software.

Results

of the 453 participants, 177 (39.1%) had good knowledge about STIs. The study also found that being male (AOR = 1.72, 95% CI [1.12-2.86], P = 0.025), increased year of study (AOR = 3.65, 95% CI [1.69-8.43], P = 0.002), having one or no sexual partner (AOR = 1.53, 95% CI [1.35-3.56], P = 0.005), and source of information from mass media (Television/Radio) (AOR = 2.76, 95% CI [1.78-4.56], 0.013) were factors that associated with an increased level of knowledge about STIs.

Conclusion

the proportion of good knowledge about sexually transmitted infections was substantially low. Therefore, strengthening information, education, and communication (IEC) on the issue using health clubs and mass media (Television/Radio) is highly recommended. In addition, inculcating the sexual and reproductive health course in the educational curriculum plays a paramount importance.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Jimma Teacher Training College Students Toward Risky Sexual Behaviors, Jimma, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

College students represent the huge section of teenagers in Ethiopia, and a growing number of them practice unsafe sex and hence face unwanted sexual health outcomes. Despite this, little has been explored about the college students' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward risky sexual behaviors (RSBs) in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and the practice of Jimma teacher training college students toward RSBs, Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia, in 2018.

METHODS

An institution-based quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected through a pretested, structured, and self-administered questionnaire. A total of 395 respondents were selected using a simple random sampling technique. The collected data were checked manually for completeness and consistency, entered into Epi-data, version 3.1, data entry software, and exported to SPSS, version 20, statistical software for analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the outcome and explanatory variables.

RESULTS

Among the total 360 respondents, 140 (38.9%) had poor knowledge of RSBs. The majority 78 (36.6%) of the respondents described radio as their main source of information about RSBs. More than three-quarters, 163 (76.6%) respondents define practicing oral and/or anal sex as RSBs and 194 (91%) reported sexually transmitted infections including HIV/AIDS as the main consequence of RSBs. This study also revealed 156 (43.4%) participants had an unfavorable attitude toward RSBs. 60 (16.7%) participants disagree with the idea that condoms prevent HIV/AIDS and nearly all respondents (340 [94.5%]) agreed homosexuality brings sexual risks. Among those who had sexual experience, 83 (32.4%) had 2 or more sexual partners, more than two-third (176 [68.8%]) had sexual practice after drinking alcohol, and 90 (35.1%) participants reported they did not use a condom when they had sex.

CONCLUSION

A significant percentage of the students have poor knowledge, attitude, and practice toward RSBs. Tesfaye Y, Agenagnew L. Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Jimma Teacher Training College Students Toward Risky Sexual Behaviors, Jimma, Ethiopia. Sex Med 2020;8:554-564.

Knowledge, Attitude, and Preventive Practices towards Sexually Transmitted Infections among Preparatory School Students in West Gojjam Zone, Ethiopia

Background. Sexually transmitted infections are major public health concerns that mostly affect adolescents and young people. Hence, the aim of this study was to assess students’ knowledge, attitude, and preventive practice towards sexually transmitted infections and the associated factors. Methods. A school-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October 24 to November 4, 2018. A sample size of 845 was calculated and a 1-stage sampling technique was employed. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The data were entered into Epi-Info 7.2 and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25 software. The descriptive result was presented in text, figure, and tables. Also, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify associated factors. Then the adjusted odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval were computed. And a p value of <0.05 was considered to assert statistical significance. Results. Half of the respondents (50.5%) had good knowledge on sexually transmitted infections. Also, 46.4% of students had a good preventive practice. However, only 38.4% of students had an appropriate attitude towards sexually transmitted infections. Being a male (AOR: 1.58 (95% CI: (1.19, 2.09)) and having employed father (AOR: 1.97 (95% CI: (1.18, 3.30)) predicted good knowledge. Similarly, secondary and above level of paternal education (AOR: 2.16 (95% CI: (1.28, 3.64)) and having a farmer father (AOR: 1.77 (95% CI: (1.04, 3.02)) predicted appropriate attitude. Predictors of preventive practices included elder age (AOR: 2.33 (95% CI: (1.27, 4.28)), never had sexual intercourse (AOR: 1.44 (95% CI: (1.07, 1.94)), and having good knowledge on STIs (AOR: 1.53 (95% CI: (1.16, 2.02)). Conclusion. The proportion of students that had good knowledge, appropriate attitude, and good preventive practice towards STIs were low. Personal and parental factors predicted students’ knowledge, attitude, and preventive practices. Hence, creating awareness need to be strengthened.

Knowledge, attitude and preventive practices of sexually transmitted infections among unmarried youths in an urban community in Lagos State, Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are of public health importance as over 1 million STIs are acquired daily worldwide. One-third of the new cases of curable STIs affect younger persons aged less than 25 years. Sexually transmitted infections can lead to severe complications beyond the immediate impact of infections as such.

AIM

This study assessed knowledge of, attitude towards and preventive practices of STI among young unmarried persons in Surulere local government area (LGA) of Lagos State, Nigeria.

SETTING

The study was conducted among young unmarried persons in Surulere LGA, Lagos State, Nigeria, between June and November 2018.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 450 young unmarried persons selected using a multistage sampling technique. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to obtain data. Analysis was carried out with Epi-Info 7.2.2.2 software. Chi-square was used to test for associations. Level of significance was at p ≤ 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean age was 19.9 + 2.5 years. Majority of the respondents (84.7%) had heard of STIs. About two-third (65.6%) had good knowledge, while majority (98.6%) had good attitude towards the prevention of STIs, but less than half (34.0%) had good preventive practices. Knowledge of STI was statistically significantly associated with age, level of education, attitude and preventive practices of the respondents.

CONCLUSION

Most of the respondents were aware and had good attitude towards prevention of STI, but gaps exist in knowledge and preventive practices. Hence, targeted education to improve the knowledge and preventive practices against STI among young unmarried persons is recommended.

A Cross-Sectional Study on the Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Diseases among Young Adults Living in Albaha, Saudi Arabia

Background: Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) remain one of the most important health challenges in not only developing countries but also developed countries. Discussing STDs in the Saudi society is considered taboo, as social factors and ethics give rise to many obstacles. This study evaluates the knowledge of STDs among young adult students enrolled in Albaha University. Methods: This research is a cross-sectional study involving 1902 young adult students registered at Albaha University. STDs knowledge scores (STDs-KSs) were calculated using a predesigned and validated STDs knowledge questionnaire with 27 items adapted from previously developed questionnaires. Results: The estimated overall mean of STDs-KS was 7.95 ± 4.29. Female participants showed a significantly higher mean of STDs-KS, compared to males (8.51 ± 4.14 vs. 7.32 ± 4.38, p < 0.0001). Participants registered in health sciences programs showed higher STDs-KS, compared to participants from arts and sciences programs (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Evidence from this study suggests a lack of STDs knowledge among young adults. To promote STDs awareness among this population, more health educational programs should be included in school curricula at the late stages of secondary education.

Health students' knowledge of sexually transmitted infections and risky behaviors before participation to the health promotion program

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate knowledge of health students (HS) enrolled in a health promotion program about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and the frequency of risky behaviors.

METHODS

HS answered two anonymous questionnaires, a mandatory one about knowledge of STIs and STI prevention and an optional one about behaviors.

RESULTS

Two-hundred and sixteen HS answered the first questionnaire and 183 answered the second one. Eighty-three percent of HS had a good knowledge of HIV transmission, but half of them were aware of pre-exposure and post-exposure prophylaxes for HIV. The role of HPV infection in genital warts and anal cancer was respectively known by 33 (15.3%) and 10 (4.6%) HS. Thirty-six HS (19.7%) reported having unprotected sex in the previous 12 months.

CONCLUSION

French HS had a poor knowledge of STIs and STI prevention, and risky behaviors. It is necessary to provide good training on STIs to HS.

Knowledge, Attitudes And Practices Of Syrian Refugee Mothers Towards Sexually Transmitted Infections

PURPOSE

Refugee women are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) due to risk factors associated with displacement. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to STIs among Syrian refugee mothers in Jordan.

METHODS

A cross-sectional correlational study was conducted with a convenience sample of 523 Syrian refugee mothers in host communities in Jordan.

RESULTS

A moderately positive relationship between the mothers' knowledge of and attitudes towards STIs (p<0.001) was found. Although Syrian refugee mothers' attitudes towards STIs were reasonably good, they had poor knowledge about non-HIV causes of STIs and clinical symptoms. Spousal acceptance of using a condom was significantly associated with mothers' STIs knowledge, attitude, length of being a refugee in Jordan and duration of marriage (p<0.05). Almost all Syrian refugee mothers (91.6%) and their spouses (95%) did not follow regular check-ups for STIs. Two-thirds of mothers'- spouses (66.6%) did not accept the usage of a condom during sexual intercourse.

CONCLUSION

Syrian refugee mothers have poor knowledge about non-HIV causes of STIs and clinical symptoms. They have poor practices concerning STI screening and prevention. It is imperative that nurses address these issues especially among refugees where in locales where resources are scarce.

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards sexually transmitted diseases amongst the inmates of women shelters homes at Klang Valley

Background

Previous studies show that there is a changing trend of sexual and reproductive behaviour among youth and this requires more attention and awareness especially on sexually transmitted diseases (STD). This study was carried out to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of sexually transmitted diseases among selected inmates of women shelter homes.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out by involving 60 participants whom aged in between 13 to 25 years old. The questionnaires were developed in ‘Bahasa Melayu’ and it has been anonymous guided questionnaires.

Results

The result showed that the mean age of the participants was 17.9 years old and most of the participants have completed secondary school (91.7%). Overall, the level of knowledge of participants on STDs were classified into three groups; ‘high knowledge’ (33.3%), ‘medium knowledge’ (35.0%) and ‘low knowledge’ (31.7%). The majority have heard of HIV/AIDS (95%) but with respect to other STDs was less well known. Whereas, the mean score for attitude was 23.1 out total 25. Their knowledge level was not influenced by their age (p = 0.61) and socio-economic status (p = 0.85). However, their attitude was influenced by their age (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Knowledge on non-HIV STDs is still lacking and risky behaviours have been practiced. Although there were high level of knowledge and attitude among them but their practice on sexuality contradicts it especially on contraceptive use and pre-marital sex.

Alcohol Consumption and Risky Drinking Patterns among College Students from Selected Countries of the Carpathian Euroregion

Reduction of excessive alcohol consumption still remains a significant challenge to the actions in the scope of public health of European citizens. The aim of this study is to present the prevalence of alcohol consumption and to estimate the occurrence of risky drinking among college students from the Polish, Slovak, Romanian, and Ukrainian parts of the Carpathian Euroregion, taking social contexts into account. The consumption of alcohol was estimated on the basis of the respondents' statements regarding the quantity and frequency of their consumption of beer, wine, and vodka. The study included people from the first year of undergraduate studies. The analysis used the Chi-square independence test and odds ratios (ORs). There were significant differences in the frequency of alcohol consumption, as well as the individual types consumed, among the respondents from the analyzed countries. Of the examined college students, 70% admit to occasional drinking. The pattern of dangerous alcohol consumption occurs in the case of approximately every seventh person. Risky drinking occurs with much greater frequency among male students rather than their female counterparts. In Romania, a very small percentage of female students engage in risky drinking. The analysis did not show statistically significant differences in the frequency of risky drinking between countries. The coexistence of other adverse health behaviors, such as smoking and alcohol abuse, was confirmed.

Social and behavioural factors associated with risky sexual behaviours among university students in nine ASEAN countries: a multi-country cross-sectional study

While university students are potential human resources, this population group is particularly involved in health risk behaviours. Preventing risky sexual behaviours among them would contribute to prevention of HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unwanted pregnancies, which have posed a great burden on population health. This study was therefore conducted to identify social and behavioural factors associated with risky sexual behaviours among university students in nine ASEAN countries. A multi-country, cross-sectional study was conducted in 2015 among university students by a network of researchers in the selected countries. A convenient sampling method and stratified random sampling procedures were employed to select universities and students, respectively. A structured questionnaire was translated into national languages of the participating countries and used to collect data from the selected students in the classrooms. Using STATA, Chi-square test was used to test differences in proportions, and multinomial logistic regression analyses were performed to obtain relative risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed with to identify independent social and behavioural factors associated with non-condom use at last sexual intercourse. In total, 8,836 students with a mean age of 20.6 (SD = 2.0) participated in the study. Most of them (98.5%) were unmarried. In all countries, male students were significantly more likely to have two or more sexual partners in the past 12 months compared to female students (4.8% vs. 1.1%, p < 0.001). Female students were significantly more likely to report unprotected sex compared to male students (50.5% vs. 58.8%, p = 0.01). Results of multivariable logistic regression analyses showed that students who reported having two or more partners in the past 12 months were significantly more likely to be male, be aged between 20-30, be current tobacco smokers, be binge drinkers, have severe depressive symptoms, and have been in a physical fight in the past 12 months, compared to students who reported having less than two sexual partners in the past 12 months. Health intervention programmes to prevent and control STIs, especially HIV infection, should focus on university students having the social and behavioural characteristics that are associated with risky sexual behaviours.

Knowledge and risk perception of sexually transmitted infections and relevant health care services among high school students in the Platfontein San community, Northern Cape Province, South Africa

Background

The historically marginalized Platfontein San youths have a high rate of teenage pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge and perception of male and female school-going youths in Platfontein of STIs and HIV/AIDS, and the health care services that are available to them.

Participants and methods

A descriptive cross-sectional survey with a sample of 201 learners in grades 6–12 at the !Xunkwesa Combined School in Platfontein was conducted in July 2007. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection.

Results

The study found that STI knowledge was 70.1% and HIV and AIDS was 11.9%. Perceptions of risk among the learners were uniformly low; 24% for contracting a STI and 26% for HIV. About 59% (n=119) of the respondents were either unaware or not sure of the primary health care (PHC) services within the community. Overall, 65% of the students reported using PHC services while 35% exclusively used traditional healers. Slightly less than half (43%) of the learners acquired information about sexual and reproductive health through the Life Skills curriculum at school.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of increasing HIV awareness and inculcating sexual and reproductive health into the school curriculum. The study further shows the imperative need to recognize the role of traditional medicine in the health care choices of this community. Traditional value systems need to be incorporated into the way that education and health care is proposed to the community leaders, to increase acceptance and utilization of health services.

Knowledge of Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Homeless People in a Municipal Shelter

Health problems are substantially increased in homeless populations who have higher prevalence's of infectious diseases than do general population. They have relatively earlier onset of sexual activity, and due to lack of information, many facilities for the practice of unprotected sex and low level of condom usage increase the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This study aims to identify the knowledge and prevention of STIs among homeless people. An analytic cross-sectional study was conducted in a Tbilisi municipal shelter. Within the framework of the quantitative research, the beneficiaries were interviewed with a self-administered questionnaire. Most of the respondents (98%) have heard about STIs, but their health literacy is low. Although respondents knew the risk factors for STIs, they had a high degree of risk-taking sexual behavior evidenced by the very low percentage using condoms (15.2%) and a large proportion having multiple partners (54.3%). It is necessary to raise awareness about STIs and promote sexual education of respondents at the municipal shelter.

Impact of social factors and sexual behaviors on the knowledge of sexually transmitted infections among women who have sex with women/women who have sex with women and men

Although heterosexual individuals' knowledge of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) has been examined, no studies have been conducted in Poland of the STI knowledge in women who have sex with women (WSW) and women who have sex with women and men (WSWM). We enrolled a group of 146 WSW and 113 WSWM and asked them to complete a study questionnaire that contained items about socioeconomic factors, sexual behaviors, and STI knowledge. The level of STI knowledge among the studied WSW was insufficient. The frequency of correct answers was higher in WSWM. A multivariate regression model revealed that only the higher importance of sex to the respondents ( F(1) = 4.31, p = 0.04) and a higher number of same-sex sexual partners within the last 12 months ( F(1) = 14.86, p = 0.0001) influenced the level of STI knowledge. The results of the study allowed us to conclude that WSW have insufficient STI knowledge, whereas WSWM have better knowledge, and this is influenced by awareness that STI risk is not associated with the partner's gender, age, importance of sex, sexual behaviors, and openness to discussing STIs with a sexual partner.