Knowledge and attitude regarding HIV/AIDS among patients attending medicine outpatient department in C. C. M. Medical College and Hospital, Durg

ABSTRACT

Background: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is one of the deadliest diseases that modern medicine has ever had to tackle. Understanding the knowledge about HIV/AIDS in general populations will help in formulating strategy for prevention and treatment. With this background, this study was conducted to assess the knowledge and awareness about HIV/AIDS among general population.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at C.C.M. Medical College and Hospital, Durg during December 2018 to January 2019. The data was collected from 450 patients attending the medicine outpatient department. Study subjects were selected using convenient sampling technique. Patients giving consent and willing to participate were included in the study. The data was collected in predesigned and pretested questionnaire.Results: 77.11% study participants were aware that unprotected sex can lead to transmission of HIV, 73.78% knew that shaking hands will not transmit the disease. 79.8% knew that use of condom can prevent transmission of HIV/AIDS. Overall males had better knowledge than females. 76.85% said they would behave friendly with people having HIV/AIDS and 69.78% were willing to take care of relatives with HIV.Conclusions: This study indicates that majority participants have good knowledge about difference between HIV and AIDS, modes of transmission and prevention though they were not completely aware of it. The proportion of those with lack of correct knowledge though comparatively less, needs to be taken as a challenge and addressed through well planned health educational activities at various platforms including teaching hospital premises.