Knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to HIV and AIDS among college students in Taiwan
Tung, W-Chen.; Ding, K.; Farmer, S.
Journal of the Association of Nurses in AIDS Care JANAC 19(5): 397-408
2008
ISSN/ISBN: 1552-6917 PMID: 18762147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jana.2008.04.009Document Number: 202388
HIV infection rates in Taiwan have been growing at nearly 15% per year since 1997, one of the fastest rates in Asia. Little is known about the knowledge, attitudes, and sexual behaviors of college-age young adults in Taiwan. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, sources of HIV information, and behaviors related to HIV among college students; it also explored variables associated with the knowledge and attitudes about HIV among college students in Taiwan. Data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire from 132 Taiwanese college students enrolled in two private universities. Study results showed that fewer than half (48.5%) of the participants were aware that HIV could be spread through infected semen, and, nearly a quarter of participants believed that HIV could be contracted through mosquito bites, toilet seats, or swimming pools. Only 29.5% reported ever having had sex. This research provides additional insights that may be used to develop effective HIV prevention strategies in Taiwan.