A preliminary report on “knowledge, attitude, and practice†on “human immunodeficiency virus†among the students of a college in Bankura

Abstract

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is rising faster in Asia-Pacific region of the world. Although self-protection is the best preventive measurement for AIDS. Inadequate knowledge, negative attitudes, and risky practices are identified as the key factor for the AIDS. College students constitute a vulnerable group of AIDS due to their curiosity, lack of knowledge, and risk-prone behavior. Purpose: The study aims to examine the knowledge, attitude, and awareness about HIV infection/AIDS among a group of the college students’ in Bankura district, West Bengal. Method: This study was quantitative and cross-sectional, with a descriptive design. Students have performed self-completed questionnaire, designed to measure their knowledge, attitudes, and awareness to HIV/AIDS. Results: Of the college students, 82% were aware about HIV infection/AIDS. Of which, 4.60% were found outstanding and high level of knowledge and 11.50% of students with excellent knowledge. The major sources of information on HIV infection/AIDS to 80% of respondents were electronic media and print media. Conclusion: From the survey report, we can conclude that AIDS awareness among college students of the Bankura is not satisfactorily.