Knowledge and Perception of Sexual Health Education and Condom Use among STI Patients in India

Aims: To explore the knowledge of STI, HIV/AIDS and condom use behaviour among men and women who have been medically treated and not treated for STIs in relation to socio-demographic factors. Furthermore, the study will explore the perceptions of adolescent sexual health education at school in the aforementioned group.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in all Indian member states during 2005-2006.

Methodology: Using nationally representative samples, a cross sectional study of 8924 women and 1644 men (2948 women & 745 men received medical treatment for STIs) were used to examine their knowledge, condom use behaviour and perception of adolescent sexual health education at school. Chi-square analysis was performed.

Results: Gher proportions of respondents who were urban residents, higher educated and more affluent received medical treatment for STIs compared to their rural, less educated and poorer peers. More women (43%) who reported condom use during their last sexual intercourse received treatment vs. the group not using condoms (32%). Proportionally, more women and men who had heard about STIs and HIV/AIDS answered in favor of girl’s and boy’s sexual health education, condom use and HIV/AIDS education compared to their peers who did not hear about STIs and HIV/AIDS. Even after receiving treatment respondents reported not having enough information about STIs, or HIV/AIDS. STI patients suggested that sexuality education should be added to school curriculum for a better understanding of the diseases in the general population.

Conclusion: Indian policy makers should place emphasis on providing necessary preventive information about STIs through different channels such as treatment centers, school curriculums and awareness campaigns.