Knowledge and attitude about HIV/AIDS of schoolteachers in Iran

ABSTRACT

Around 68 million people are currently infected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus [HIV]. There are very few studies from developing countries to examine the key factors that determine how much people know about the disease. A cross-sectional study has been conducted comprising 290 interviews with teachers of ten high schools in Yazd City, Iran. More than 90% of the participants had previously received HIV and AIDS information. Only 207 [71.4%] knew the correct' methods of transmission of HIV/AIDS. Teachers' attitudes toward HIV/AIDS were generally positive. Married teachers held a more positive attitude towards HIV/AIDS than unmarried teachers. The results recommended a strategy for AIDS reduction by public health education in Iranian teachers