HIV/Aids Related Knowledge of Inmates in Greek Prisons

Abstract

Within the context of a national study on the prevalence of male inmates' HIV-risk behaviour, we present data regarding the HIV-related knowledge of a sub sample of inmates in terms of modes of HIV transmission, methods of HIV prevention and risks of HIV transmission within prison. The sample comprised a randomly selected group of 242 inmates from the Greek prison with the largest inmate population. Inmates appeared highly knowledgeable regarding transmission via sexual behaviour and the basic modes of reducing risk during sexual intercourse. Nevertheless, high levels of misconception regarding certain sexual practices and drug related issues were also apparent. Significant knowledge gaps regarding risk of HIV transmission in prison also appeared. There were no significant differences between injecting drug users (IDUs) and non-IDUs regarding their knowledge, except on items related to procedural aspects of drug using, with non-IDUs being less knowledgeable. Inmates perceived themselves as knowing 'a medium' amount of information about AIDS. The pattern of knowledge that emerged was that although inmates knew the basic facts about AIDS, they were still ignorant or had misconceptions in significant areas. Results are discussed in relation to similar patterns of HIV-related knowledge that have appeared in other European studies in prison populations and in Greek studies of the general population.