Knowledge, attitudes and behaviours ofadolescents in relation to STIs, pregnancy,contraceptive utilization and substance abuse inthe Mhlakulo region, Eastern Cape
S. Afr. fam. pract. (2004, Online)
;
52(2): 154-158, 2010. ilus
Article
in English
| AIM
| ID: biblio-1269876
ABSTRACT
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS are a major problem in South Africa. This; coupled with a high incidence of teenage pregnancy; alcohol and drug abuse; is of grave concern; especially its impact among the young (15-24 years) and in economically poor; rural populations. This study aimed to assess the youths' knowledge; attitudes and behaviours regarding STIs; teenage pregnancy; contraception and substance abuse.Methodology:
This is an interview-based; descriptive study. The sample design employed a stratified sample (using schools as strata) of young people aged 15 to 24 years in three schools in the Mhlakulo region; Eastern Cape province. From each school; a sample of learners from grades 10 to 12 was selected randomly. Questionnaires covering relevant parameters were used to interview the learners; after which the data were assimilated and analysed.Results:
A total of 150 learners were surveyed (86 females and 64 males). In total; 56of them knew about STIs. About 88of the participants learned about STIs from health care workers/nurses/doctors/clinics; the media; educators; the school and friends. Most preferred to communicate to friends (38.67) and siblings (28); only 15communicated with parents. Among the sexually active; 54reported the use of condoms; of these only 62used them consistently. Of the participants; 7.33had more than five sexual partners. Of the young women; 12.8reported to have fallen pregnant with one-sixth of them wanting to become pregnant. Thirty per cent of those pregnant had to quit school; but did return subsequently. Common contraceptives used were condoms (54) and pills (58). Twenty-two per cent of the youths admitted to the use of recreational drugs at some time; most of these were related to alcohol (19.33). A small fraction (1.33) used dagga (cannabis).Conclusion:
There is lack of knowledge of STIs and their prevention and condom and contraceptive use among young people of this community. Sexual promiscuity and teenage pregnancy in the group is a cause for concern. Substance abuse is another important problem that requires urgent attention
Search on Google
Index:
AIM (Africa)
Main subject:
South Africa
/
Pregnancy
/
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
/
Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
/
Adolescent
/
Contraception
Type of study:
Qualitative research
Country/Region as subject:
Africa
Language:
English
Journal:
S. Afr. fam. pract. (2004, Online)
Year:
2010
Type:
Article
Similar
MEDLINE
...
LILACS
LIS