Knowledge Regarding Sexually Transmitted Disease Amongst University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

Aims: Sexually Transmitted Diseases are major global health concern. Their growing incidence can be a menace for any society from epidemiological and social aspect. This study investigated the current state of knowledge concerning sexually transmitted infections among Pakistani students. Material and methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in four universities of Karachi, Pakistan, where inclusion criteria were university students, male or female of any age group. Ethical approval was taken prior to data collection. Results: Overall 890 participants participated in the study with a response rate of 89%. Total 515 male and 375 female students were included in the study. 41.1 % males and 27.2 % of the female participants identified the sexually transmitted infections correctly from the list of given infections, while 0.9 % recognized the clinical signs of HIV/AIDS. 64.8% of the male and 60.2% of the female participants had apprehension regarding the risk factors of STI with M/F Odds of 1.07. Conclusion: Students were inadequately knowledgeable regarding STIs. Control of STDs is the major factor governing the policies made by health care providers worldwide who strive to eliminate the prevalence of this disease. To reduce health disparities, health providers who have identified the male to female ratio in regards to their knowledge regarding STDs will be able to target the age groups at greatest risk.