Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Youth Aged 19 – 24 towards Prevention of Sexually Transmitted Infections at KIU-TH, Ishaka Bushenyi District:

Abstract

INTRODUCTIONS Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) remain a serious reproductive health problem globally. Despite this fact youths recklessly involve in sexual activities which predisposes them to STIs which could rather be easily preventable. Therefore, The study aimed at assessing the KAP of youths aged 19 – 24 towards prevention of STIs at KIU-TH in Ishaka Bushenyi district METHODOLOGY The study was descriptive cross-sectional, Quantitative methods were employed in data collection and 50 respondents were involved both male and female who were selected using a convenient sampling method. RESULTS: Most respondents 30 (60%) were between 19 – 20 years, 30(60%) were students and 30(60%) were single. Knowledge towards prevention of STIs was good as majority 50(100%) understood the term STIS, 25(50%) knew HIV infection as an STIs, 50(100%) knew about transmission of STIS, 30(60%) had been sensitized and health educated about STIS prevention and majority knew condom use 30(60%) as one way of preventing STIS. Attitudes were fair as majority 40(80%) believed that STIS can be dangerous and majority 40(80%) felt they could prevent STIs. Practice was poor as majority 30(60%) had ever been involved in the sexual relationship of which majority had 1-2 partner 30(60%) and majority had their first partner at 15- 17 years old 30(60%), majority of the respondents took alcohol 35(70%), majority 37(74%) reported teenage involvement in sexual relationship and 35(70%) alcohol reported as most leading factor into sexual relationships 35(70%), majority 33(66%) did not take precautions during sexual intercourse only 18(36%) used condoms. In conclusion: The study found out adequate knowledge towards STIs prevention and attitudes were fair but practices were poor