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Erschienen in: Journal of Public Health 2/2020

21.03.2019 | Original Article

Knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among basic school students in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

verfasst von: Alfred Brown Kwarteng, Yulia Skokova, Williams Agyemang-Duah

Erschienen in: Journal of Public Health | Ausgabe 2/2020

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Abstract

Objective

Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and HIV testing is essential towards reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS among students. However, there is a paucity of empirical studies regarding students’ knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing in Ghana, a gap this qualitative study seeks to fill.

Methods

Eight focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted among 60 students from the various class levels at the Junior High Schools in Tamale Metropolis in the Northern Region of Ghana. Data were analyzed with the use of a content analytical framework and presented based on an a posteriori inductive reduction approach.

Results

The study revealed a good knowledge about HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among students. Although some study participants showed positive attitudes toward HIV-infected people, others, however, exhibited poor attitudes toward HIV-infected people. In addition, the study participants showed negative attitudes and feelings toward HIV testing and counseling.

Conclusion

The study findings highlight the need to educate students about the friendly nature of HIV testing and counseling so as to demonstrate the utmost respect and care to people infected with HIV/AIDS in society. This effort will contribute immensely towards meeting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, which seeks to ensure good health and well-being for all at all ages by 2030.
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Metadaten
Titel
Knowledge and attitudes on HIV/AIDS and HIV testing among basic school students in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana
verfasst von
Alfred Brown Kwarteng
Yulia Skokova
Williams Agyemang-Duah
Publikationsdatum
21.03.2019
Verlag
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Erschienen in
Journal of Public Health / Ausgabe 2/2020
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Elektronische ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-019-01049-5

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