AWARENESS ABOUT HIV/AIDS IN YOUNG EDUCATED ADULTS OF LAHORE

Abstract

Introduction: The epidemic of Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) caused by Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is intimidating the world population since a long period of time. The purpose of this study is to determine the awareness about HIV/AIDS in young educated adults of Lahore, Pakistan. Setting: Lahore, Pakistan Material and Methods: This cross sectional, descriptive study was conducted in Lahore during January 2016 to July 2016. The study population includes adults from Lahore with more than 10 years of formal education, 18 years and above of age who voluntarily participated in online survey. Doctors, nurses and medical students were excluded from the survey. Subjects were included in the study after taking consent. For statistical analysis IBM SPSS version 23 was used. Results: Total sample included 351 young adults in which 230 (65.5%) were females and 121 (34.5%) were males. They were aged 18-30 years (mean age: 24.8 years). The range of correct answers about Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and its transmission was between 42–88%. The maximum numbers of individuals responded correctly when asked that if having multiple sex partners can increase a person's chance of being infected with HIV (94.9%). 70% were convinced that there is a difference between HIV and AIDS. 43% of total sample responded that a person can get HIV through contact with saliva, tears, urine or sweat, 25% believing that a person can get infection by sharing a glass of water with an HIV patient. 13% think there is a vaccine available to prevent individuals from getting AIDS. Conclusion: There is a deficiency of knowledge among young educated adults about HIV/AIDS. There is a need for increased efforts to spread public awareness about this disease and its transmission.