Abstract
Human Immunodeficiency Virus / Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome(HIV/AIDS) is seen as one of the most devastating infection/disease known to have attacked the human population. This study is aimed at assessing the level of knowledge, attitudes and misconceptions of the medical students in a Caribbean Medical School towards HIV/AIDS. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collate information. Out of 150 questionnaires distributed, 130 were filled, showing a response rate of 87% .The ages of the respondents ranged from 19-45 years with mean age of 26. Our finding shows that the knowledge of HIV/AIDS is high: 97.7%. HIV/AIDS associated beliefs: 22.3% sees the disease as a punishment for unfaithfulness or immorality. A negative attitude towards condom use was seen in 3.8% of the respondents. Risky behaviours were identified but the prevalence of such behaviours is low. Religion was identified to play an important role in the conception and misconception about condom usage and possibly transmission of the virus. Behaviour modification programmes is recommended to correct misconceptions among medical students. (Afr. J. Biomed. Res. 11: 137 - 143)Key Words; HIV/AIDS, Knowledge, Attitudes, Students, Caribbean, Medical School, Saint Lucia.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
