Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding sexually transmitted infections among students of Punjab university, Chandigarh

Abstract

Background: Sexually Transmitted Infections are a major public health concern. Young adults have risk-taking behavior and casual attitude, engaging themselves in risky sexual activities thus contracting STIs. This study aimed at assessing knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding sexually transmitted infections among students of Panjab University, Chandigarh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 252 students of Panjab University, Chandigarh, selected here through simple random sampling. A self- administered, semi structured and validated questionnaire was used for collecting data. The data was analysed using SPSS and presented as percentages, mean, standard deviation and ANOVA. Results: The current study had 125 (49.5%) males and 127 (50.4%) female students. 228 (90.5%) had correct knowledge that multiple partners can increase risk of STI. Around 171 (67.9%) responded that it is possible to get STI after having sex first time while 151 (59.9%) responded that STI can cause long term health problems. 217 (86.1%) of respondents agreed with statement "one should go for STI test”. While 96 (38.1%) respondents believed that prohibiting prostitution would control spread of STI. Majority of respondents (81.8%) opined for introducing sex education at schools. 65.9%of respondents were reluctant to disclose about multiple sexual partners. 179(71%) respondents felt comfortable discussing STIs with family members, friends, and co-workers. Conclusions: The current study found the need of introducing sexual health education among university students to fill gaps in existing knowledge which can further reduce the risk of STIs among them and ultimately help in achieving the targets of Sustainable Development Goals.