HIV and youths in Singapore--knowledge, attitudes and willingness to work with HIV-infected persons

Abstract

Aim of study: This study examines the level of knowledge among youths in Singapore regarding HIV transmission and their attitudes towards working with a HIV-infected person at the workplace.

Method: Respondents consist of 413 youths from three educational institutions in Singapore. The survey was administered to classes which were randomly selected by the liaison persons of these three educational institutions.

Results: Findings of this study suggest that youths in Singapore are generally clear that HIV can be transmitted through sexual contact, blood transfusion and from a woman to her unborn child. However, our data also suggest that a sizeable number of respondents still possess a number of misconceptions about how HIV can be transmitted. While available scientific data suggest that HIV cannot be transmitted through casual contact at the workplace, results of this study suggest that some elements of uncertainty and fear still prevail. This is an interesting finding as it suggests that while AIDS education and campaigns may increase knowledge and awareness about HIV transmission, they do not really reduce personal concern about the possibility of infection and the potential stigma associated with working with HIV-infected persons.

Conclusion: The implications of our findings on AIDS education are discussed.