Knowledge and Attitude of Physicians towards Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection in a Tertiary Care Center

Abstract

Introduction: Human immunodeficiency virus infection is a serious health issue. In 2014, around 36.9 million people were living with the human immunodeficiency virus worldwide. Saudis perceive AIDS as a moral disease. The gap between the proper attitude and knowledge of physicians and dentists about AIDS has adversely influenced the quality of HIV-related health care. Our target for this study is to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of physicians and dentists toward the human immunodeficiency virus infection in our society. Method: A cross-sectional study was designed to collect data using a self-administered, structured questionnaire from physicians and dentists. It was distributed among them on specific days and times in a tertiary care center located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Results: The study included a total number of 201 physicians and dentists, of which 189 were physicians and 19 were dentists. Most of them (69%) are Saudis. Around 99% of the participants know that AIDS is viral in etiology. Around 127 (63%) of them know the estimated chance of transmitting HIV from a needle stick injury correctly. Also, all physicians and dentists believe that confidentiality is important for patients with AIDS. Approximately 36 (18%) think that AIDS is a curable disease. Conclusion: There is an acceptable level of information and knowledge about HIV infection among our physicians and dentists. However, regular educational assistance by specialists would be beneficial to improve the current perception. This result can give us some knowledge for further studies in order to advance HIV-related awareness among healthcare workers and the community.