An Evaluation Of Knowledge And Attitude Of Secondary School Students In Abia State Towards Hiv/ Aids : - Akanwa, U.N

Abstract

The presence and consequences of HIV I AIDS in the world is of great concern to the entire universe. The sexually active youth is an agent of its spread, this has necessitated the study on knowledge and attitude of these youths towards HIV I AIDS especially those of secondary school age. In order to carry the study on HIV I AIDS knowledge and attitude of secondary school students was carried out using one open-ended questionnaire item and thirty-seven closed ended questionnaire items. These were administered to 456 student randomly selected from 19 secondary school in the Educational 'Zones of Ahia State. Results showed that 75% of the students knew the modes of transmission and signs/symptoms of AIDS. About 50% still do not have the correct attitude to HIV/AIDS patients. 93% believed that avoidance of pre-marital sex will go a long way in preventing HIV infection I AIDS. Recommendations are that education should be intensified through the formal school system to correct some wrong ideas and clear confusions where they exist.