Abstract
This cross-sectional study among 1597 tertiary level students, 757 (48%) males and 832 (52%) females (9 respondents no mention of gender), from 12 institutions, across Papua New Guinea, examined their level of knowledge, attitudes and beliefs about HIV/AIDS. The study revealed that the majority of the students have a very good knowledge of HIV/AIDS; in general students have a considerate and compassionate attitude towards those infected with HIV/AIDS; and the students have positive and healthy attitudes and beliefs regarding HIV/AIDS. Among the demographic variables of gender, province and the institution of their study a significant difference showed in their levels of knowledge and also a statistically significant association was found between beliefs and knowledge. Interestingly, about 58% of the students think that HIV/AIDS is a punishment from God. Almost half (46.5%) of the respondents think that learning about sex and the use of condoms could also encourage young people to engage in more frequent sex. Although, in general the students have a very good knowledge, they indicate the need for more sex education and awareness pro-grams about HIV/AIDS that could be given in high schools.
Highlights
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease of the human immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
The study revealed that the majority of the students have a very good knowledge of HIV/AIDS; in general students have a considerate and compassionate attitude towards those infected with HIV/AIDS; and the students have positive and healthy attitudes and beliefs regarding HIV/AIDS
In the light of above findings we draw the following conclusions: The research showed that most of the students have a good level of knowledge regarding HIV/AIDS, which is to be taken as a good sign, this should not be an excuse to reduce the massive awareness campaigns being conducted throughout the country
Summary
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a disease of the human immune system caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Statistics, as provided by UNAIDS and WHO in 2007, show that over 33 million people throughout the world are with HIV/AIDS causing it to be one of the most devastating diseases mankind has ever faced [1]. Since the first case of HIV/AIDS was identified in 1981, the number of officially reported cases increased to 43,587 by the end of 2000. Within this period, the virus has been identified among people in the entire world and among all socio-demographic groups [8]
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