HIV/AIDS knowledge and attitudes of STD clinic attendees in St. Petersburg, Russia

Abstract

Over the last several years, Russia has experienced dramatic increases in rates of HIV and other sexually transmitted disease (STDs). This study examined HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes toward condoms, and sources of information about HIV in a sample of 200 male and 200 female Russian STD clinic patients. Study participants displayed substantial knowledge deficits concerning AIDS and HIV transmission. Superior knowledge was associated with younger age, greater education, positive attitudes toward condoms, having more sources of information about HIV/AIDS, and believing that the government is telling the truth about AIDS. More-positive attitudes toward condoms were associated with having a larger number of information sources, greater HIV/AIDS knowledge, and not being in a steady relationship. Many participants reported not trusting government and media sources of information concerning AIDS. Participants also reported concerns regarding the low quality and high cost of condoms in Russia. Results of the study suggest that interventions designed to increase knowledge and awareness of AIDS among Russians at high risk for HIV are urgently needed.