(149) Knowledge About HIV and Stigma Towards HIV-Positive People: A Study on the Italian Population

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The literature shows that an adequate knowledge about HIV enables individuals to understand the risks associated with virus transmission and encourages the adoption of protective behaviors. Moreover, it reduces stigma and discrimination against people living with the virus, fostering an open and supportive environment for early diagnosis and treatment. Thus, HIV awareness plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of the virus, improving public health and enhancing the quality of life for those affected. Objective The objective of our study was to assess the level of knowledge about HIV, particularly concerning transmission, prevention, and testing. We also investigated participants' habits regarding risky behaviors and the use of protection during sexual intercourse. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate how participants' knowledge about HIV influenced their perceived stigma towards HIV-positive individuals. Our hypothesis was that HIV knowledge would be negatively correlated with perceived stigma towards HIV-positive individuals. Methods We recruited a sample of 5256 individuals aged between 14 and 69 (M = 23.99, SD = 6.71) who claimed being HIV-negative, as well as a 54-people sample of participants who reported being HIV-positive, aged between 21 and 70 (M = 43.85, SD = 12.49). Participants completed a questionnaire that assessed their knowledge of HIV, sexual habits related to risky behaviors and transmission prevention, and their level of perceived stigma towards HIV-positive individuals. Results Both groups displayed good overall knowledge about HIV, as 75% of the HIV-negative group gave 25 (78.1%) correct answers or more and 75% of the HIV-positives gave at least 28 (87.5%) correct answers. Nonetheless, results highlighted poor knowledge concerning the modalities of HIV transmission and risky behaviors, as well as a low use of condoms during sexual intercourse, as well as low rate of HIV testing. Significant but weak correlations were observed between HIV knowledge, age and perceived stigma. Conclusions Although our sample demonstrated good overall HIV knowledge, our findings highlighted specific areas that require attention and should be targeted in future awareness campaigns. Perceived stigma showed weak associations with HIV knowledge and participants' age, but further research is necessary to gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing this construct. Disclosure No.