Study on peer-led school-based HIV/AIDS prevention among youths in a medium-sized city in China
Huang, H.; Ye, X.; Cai, Y.; Shen, L.; Xu, G.; Shi, R.; Jin, X.
International Journal of Std and Aids 19(5): 342-346
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 0956-4624 PMID: 18482967 DOI: 10.1258/ijsa.2007.007208Document Number: 201714
HIV/AIDS epidemic is crucial in China; however, few studies were performed on youths. This study was performed to examine the effectiveness of peer-led HIV prevention intervention on HIV-related knowledge, attitudes and behaviour intention in senior high-school students in San-ming, a medium-sized city in Fujian province. Three thousand and sixty-eight students completed self-administered questionnaires before and after intervention, of which 981 students (the intervention group) accepted peer-led HIV/AIDS prevention intervention and others (the control groups) continued the usual teacher-led health education curriculum. Significant increases were observed in the intervention group in HIV-related knowledge, in attitudes and in behaviour intention after intervention. The results of this research also indicated an inconsistent level of HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitude among students, with a significant gender, health education history and style difference in session delivery. More concerted efforts in HIV prevention are needed to improve young people's sexual health.