Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Sexually Transmitted Infections: Perceptions of Sexual Behaviour among Undergraduate Students in Lokoja, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major problem among Nigerian adolescents, with serious complications arising from untreated cases. Considering the growing trend of unprotected sex in this vulnerable population, it is pertinent to carry out interventions aimed at increasing awareness measures and lowering the disease burden.

Aims: To assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices of undergraduate students regarding STIs, including HIV/AIDS.

Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study.

Place of Study: Federal University, Lokoja, Nigeria.

Duration of Study: Between October 2016 and March 2017.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional population-based study using self-administered structured questionnaires was carried out. A total of 370 undergraduate students were purposively selected to participate in the study. Data were analysed using SPSS software. Statistical measures like frequency, percentage and mean were tabulated.

Results: Out of the 370 students that participated in this study, only 66.2% knew the full meaning of HIV/AIDS. The internet was the most common source of STI knowledge (92.2%). A number of misconceptions were commonly reported among the respondents: 82.4% believed STIs could be transmitted by sharing a toilet seat, while 20.3% believed witchcraft was a means through which STIs could be transmitted. Only 22.2% knew that premature birth was a complication of untreated STIs. 83.5% believed there was a cure for all STIs, including HIV/AIDS. 70.5% were worried about getting STIs when having unprotected sex. 77.8% were sexually active. As much as 79.7% had their first sexual encounter before their twentieth birthday. 74.9% had multiple sex partners. Only 18.9% used a condom every time they had sex. 45.9% used alcohol and/or other hard drugs before having sex. Only 44.3% had been tested for HIV.

Conclusion: Lack of in-depth knowledge about STIs coupled with risky sexual behaviours among undergraduate students of Federal University, Lokoja call for urgent measures to address the unfortunate trend.