Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practises on sexually transmitted diseases/infections among the youths in bugolobi town,
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Date
2018-01
Authors
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Publisher
Kampala International University. School of Health Sciences (Western Campus)
Abstract
Introduction: STIs/STDs are becoming neglected despite their contribution in morbidity and mortality. This could have resulted from the fact that most of them have become treatable since the discovery of effective antibiotics. This neglect has led to them creeping back with development of resistant strains that are hard to eradicate. The most affected group is the sexually active, highly experimental and naïve youth whose knowledge influences their attitudes and practice concerning STIs/STDS. Of more importance is the fact that most STIs are gateway infections to contraction of the deadly HIV and STIs can be put on check, HIV spread can be stalled.
Given the public health importance, morbidity and mortality burden, plus the cost implications of neglecting STIs/STDs and their complications, plus the fact that neglecting them bears the risk of curtailing the HIV/AIDS scourge, a study into the knowledge, attitude and practice of the youth (most vulnerable) was conducted.
Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and practices on sexually transmitted diseases among the youths in Bugolobi Town in January 2018.
Method: A descriptive study design was used which applied both qualitative and quantitative approaches in data collection and involved 114 study participants from Bugolobi.
Results: The knowledge level of Bugolobi youth on STIs/STDs was high (98.25%) but their attitude was negative and practice poor as far as STI/STD prevention was concerned. Risky sexual practice e.g. with strangers (sex workers and for material gain) was rampant.
Conclusion: Despite the youth of Bugolobi having satisfactory knowledge level concerning STIs/STDs, their attitude, and consequently practices, are wanting. Still a lot needs to be done to convert the knowledge into attitude change and appropriate practices.
Recommendations: The youth need to change their attitudes and practices, refrain from early sexual debut and embrace condom use at every sexual contact. More funds and efforts needed in awareness creation as pertains to STIs/STDs.
Description
A Research dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment for the award of bachelor of medicine and surgery at kampala international university
Keywords
Attitude and practices on sexually transmitted diseases/infections, Youths