Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Adolescents Related to HIV/AIDS in Selected Schools of Delhi

Introduction: In India, the largest and most populated countries in the world, with over one billion inhabitants, it is estimated that around 2.5 million Indians are living with HIV. Adolescents comprise about 22% of the population of India (1). This large group of population contains high potentiality for social and economic development of the country in future. According to NFHS 2005 and 2006, the prevalence of HIV infection among 15-19 years age group is 0.04%. There is paucity of data in Delhi regarding awareness on HIV/ AIDS among adolescents, which is required to plan an education program for them.

Objective: This study was conducted among 175 school going adolescents studying in class 11 and 12 to assess their knowledge, attitude and practices related to HIV/AIDS and to assess the relationship of selected variables with their KAP scores.

Method: The study was conducted in two conveniently selected urban government schools in East Delhi. The data was collected from 175 students using a valid and reliable structured KAP Questionnaire.

Result: It was found that more than 50% of adolescents had inadequate knowledge, stigmatizing attitude and followed unsafe practices towards HIV/AIDS.

Conclusion: There is a need to educate young adults and equip them with the appropriate information and skills to enable them to protect themselves from HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS education with greater participation of school is recommended.