Attitude and Knowledge of First Year University Students towards Sexually Transmitted Infections and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (STI/HIV) in Ogun State, Nigeria
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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and Human immunodeficiency virus
and acquired immune-deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS) are global problems and
currently over 100 million STIs occur each year in people within the 15-24 age bracket.
Young people between ages 15 and 24 also account for more than fifty (50) percent of
all HIV infections throughout the world. A survey research questionnaire made up of
three trajectories including sexual behaviour scale, attitude towards STI/HIV/AIDS scale
and knowledge of STI/HIV/AIDS scale was used in this study (n= 226,
mean=18.3years). The study made use of frequency counts, percentage and regression
analysis. The study indicates a fairly high knowledge level of STI/HIV (89.4%) with
more males (87%) and younger participants (88%) possessing good knowledge of
STI/HIV. Majority of the participants are sexually active (63.3%) and of this are more
males (61.3%) and younger participants (15-19 years, 60%). Findings show that age (β =
0.025; t = 0.04; p > 0.05) was not a predictor of attitude towards STI/ HIV. However,
knowledge of STI/HIV (β = 0.459; t = 5.032; p < 0.05) and sexual behaviour (β = 0.341;
t = 4.278; p < 0.05) were strong predictors of attitude towards STI/HIV. This study
shows the need for strong advocacy, enlightenment and community mobilization for
improved awareness of STI/HIV. Local, community and religious leaders, including
youth leaders should be incorporated into the drive to increase awareness and knowledge
of STI/HIV/AIDS among young people in Nigeria
Keywords
BF Psychology